Hike the Inca Trail: A 14-Day Peruvian Adventure

An Epic Journey to the Lost City of the Incas

Prepare for an adventure that will take you through ancient history, vibrant cultures, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. This 14-day journey is more than just a trip; it's a pilgrimage along the sacred paths of the Inca to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. From the bustling colonial streets of Lima to the heart of the Inca Empire in Cusco and the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca, you'll experience the very best of Peru. This is your chance to challenge yourself, connect with an ancient world, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Trip Highlights

• Conquer the Inca Trail: Embark on a 4-day trek along the classic Inca Trail, led by expert local guides and porters, culminating in a sunrise view over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
• Explore Ancient Capitals: Discover Lima, the 'City of Kings,' and Cusco, the archaeological capital of the Americas, with its blend of Inca walls and Spanish colonial architecture.
• Discover the Sacred Valley: Journey through the heart of the Inca empire, visiting the massive fortress of Ollantaytambo and supporting a local community at the G for Good Parwa Community Restaurant.
• Sail Lake Titicaca: Explore the unique Uros floating islands and experience a memorable homestay with a local family on Amantaní Island, the highest navigable lake in the world.
• Authentic Cultural Immersion: Connect with the people of Peru, from the weavers of Taquile Island to your homestay family, gaining insight into traditions that have been passed down for centuries.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Lima

Arrive at any time in Lima, Peru's bustling capital. There are no planned activities, so check into our hotel and feel free to explore the colonial centre or the vibrant Miraflores district. Known as the culinary capital of South America, it's the perfect place to try some fresh ceviche.

Day 2: Lima to Cusco

Catch an early flight over the stunning Andes to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Take the day to acclimatize to the high altitude (3,400m / 11,152 ft). Wander the cobblestone streets, admire the Inca-built walls, and soak in the atmosphere of the Plaza de Armas.

Day 3: Cusco

Enjoy a free day to explore Cusco at your own pace. You might visit the vibrant San Pedro Market, discover the history of the Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), or explore the artisan workshops in the bohemian San Blas neighbourhood.

Day 4: Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo

Journey into the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas. We'll visit a G for Good community project, the Parwa Community Restaurant, for a delicious lunch. Afterwards, we explore the impressive Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, a formidable stone structure that climbs massive terraces on the hillside.

Day 5: The Inca Trail Begins

Our journey to Machu Picchu begins! We travel by van to Km 82, the official start of the Inca Trail. With our team of local porters and guides, we begin our 4-day trek through the Andes, surrounded by stunning river valleys and ancient ruins.

Day 6: Dead Woman's Pass

Today is the most challenging but rewarding day of the trek. We ascend to the highest point of the trail, Warmiwañusca, or 'Dead Woman's Pass,' at a breathtaking 4,198m (13,769 ft). The panoramic views from the top are unforgettable and make every step worthwhile.

Day 7: Through the Cloud Forest

We cross a second pass and follow a path that winds through the incredible cloud forest. Today's hike is filled with archaeological wonders, as we visit the ruins of Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca ('Town in the Clouds').

Day 8: Machu Picchu

The final day of our trek! We wake before dawn to hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and catch our first magical glimpse of Machu Picchu as the sun's rays illuminate the ancient citadel. We'll enjoy a guided tour of the site before taking a bus to the town of Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest.

Day 9: Cusco

After a final opportunity to explore Aguas Calientes, we take a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to our hotel in Cusco. The afternoon is free to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore any parts of the city you may have missed.

Day 10: Cusco to Puno

Travel by bus through the magnificent Altiplano, a high-altitude plateau with vast, open landscapes dotted with small villages and herds of llamas and alpacas. Our destination is Puno, a port city on the shores of the legendary Lake Titicaca.

Day 11: Lake Titicaca

Board a boat to explore Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. We'll visit the incredible Uros Floating Islands, man-made islands constructed entirely from reeds. In the afternoon, we arrive at Amantaní Island for an unforgettable homestay experience with a local family, sharing meals and learning about their way of life.

Day 12: Taquile Island & Puno

We say goodbye to our host family and continue to Taquile Island, famous for its intricate, high-quality textiles which are, by tradition, woven exclusively by the men of the community. After exploring the island, we return by boat to Puno for the night.

Day 13: Puno to Lima

Catch a flight from nearby Juliaca back to the capital, Lima. Depending on flight times, you may have the afternoon free for some last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping. Enjoy a final night out with the group.

Day 14: Lima

Your incredible Peruvian adventure concludes today. You are free to depart at any time.