Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Duration:
10 Days
Location:
Peru
Difficulty:
Intermediate

About this trip:

We are specialists in bespoke private tours. Just contact us if you would like to discuss.

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the ancient Inca Trail, a breathtaking 9-day adventure leading to the majestic Machu Picchu. This iconic trail, nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, weaves through stunning landscapes rich in history and natural beauty. From lush cloud forests and verdant valleys to the awe-inspiring views of Inca ruins appearing out of the mist, every step reveals the diverse and dramatic scenery of this remarkable region. As you traverse this storied path, our local guides will show you archaeological wonders and ancient ruins, and the stories of the Inca civilisation that once thrived here.

Unlike the crowded routes to Machu Picchu, our exclusive tour ensures an intimate experience, with limited permits keeping the trail serene and less travelled. This exclusivity allows you to fully immerse yourself in the mystical ambience of the Andes, far from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime trek and discover the profound heritage and unparalleled beauty of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

What’s included in our trip:

  • Flights from London to Cusco
  • Private trek. Only our group with leaders until arrival at Machu Picchu
  • Return flights from London to Lima
  • Local transfers
  • Accommodation in Cusco before and after the trek
  • Tented accommodation on the Inca Trail
  • All meals on the trek
  • A UK expedition leader
  • A fully catered porter team
  • Training guide
  • All staff and support team costs and park fees
  • Mess tents with tables and chairs
  • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
  • Clean, purified drinking water
  • Fair and ethical treatment of porters
  • Sleeping mattress
  • Kit guide
  • Fundraising guide if required

What’s not included:

  • Drinks, meals and snacks where not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal spending money
  • Personal travel insurance (essential)
  • Tips for local porters & crew (not obligatory but they do work extremely hard)
  • Personal items from the kit list

Need more information?

If you have any questions, we would love to hear from you! Real humans are always here to take your calls.

Trip dates:

Contact us to book a bespoke private tour.
September 25th 2025
September 24th 2026
September 23rd 2027

£3495 Including flights

All of our trips are available on 10 interest-free standing order payments, please contact us to arrange.
Dates and Availability

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Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trip itinerary

Day 1: Fly from London to Cusco, Peru

Day 2: Acclimatise in Cusco

Arrive in Cusco and spend two days acclimatising in this exceptionally beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City. Cusco sits at around 3,400 meters above sea level and nestles in the Andes.

Day 3: Explore Cusco

Acclimatisation day in Cusco. At 6 pm we have a welcome meeting with our tour provider to learn about the extraordinary adventure ahead. Before that, you have free time to explore Cusco, the historical capital of the Inca Empire. A city rich in cultural and historical wonders. Stroll through its cobblestone streets to see a blend of colonial architecture and ancient Incan ruins. Visit Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, and explore the bustling San Pedro Market for local flavours and crafts. Don’t miss Sacsayhuamán, a remarkable fortress with panoramic city views. Cusco’s vibrant atmosphere and rich history make it a wonderful stop before your Inca Trail adventure.

Day 4: The Inca Adventure begins.

Start your adventure with an early 4:30 am departure, meeting our experienced guides in Cusco for a transfer to Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. After a refreshing breakfast stop, we’ll proceed with registration and formalities before embarking on our journey. The hike begins with a gentle ascent through the scenic Cusichaca Valley, leading us to the fascinating Inca site of Llactapata. Throughout the day, our knowledgeable guides will provide enriching insights into the area’s history and natural wonders. Enjoy stunning views as we cover 14 km, culminating in an overnight camp at Ayapata, situated at 3300 meters.

Day 5: 16km Hike from Ayapata to Chaquicocha

Today’s journey from our camp at Ayapata to Chaquicocha is the most challenging part of the trek, featuring two high passes, including the renowned Dead Woman’s Pass at 4200 metres. Altitude effects are common here, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the high mountain ranges and a diverse array of plant life in the Polylepsis forest. Our campsite at Chaquicocha offers stunning vistas across the valley, providing a serene end to a demanding day.

Day 6: Chaquicocha to Winay Wayna

After conquering the two challenging passes yesterday, today offers a more relaxing journey filled with some of the Inca Trail’s most beautiful scenery. You will traverse lush, verdant cloud forests with spectacular views of the distant Andes. Along the way, our guides will lead you to various Inca ruins for exploration and insight. This fantastic day concludes with an early afternoon arrival at our campsite, allowing ample time to unwind and soak in the serene surroundings.

Day 7: The day you have been waiting for ...

We start our day early at 2:30am to reach the checkpoint by 3 am, where we need to wait for three hours before proceeding to the Sun Gate. The hike to the Sun Gate offers breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided tour of this iconic site. After the tour, we take a short bus ride to Aguas Calientes to celebrate with food and drinks. At around 3pm, we board the “glass-roofed” train for a scenic journey along the river valley back to Ollantaytambo, offering stunning views of your hiking route. Finally, a bus will transfer us back to Cusco.

Day 8: Unwind in Cusco

A final opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, maybe even try a roasted Guinea Pig? (A local delicacy!) There is also an optional tour to explore the Sacred Valley just outside Cusco. You will discover insights into the deep connection between the Incas and their natural surroundings, making it a profound experience of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Day 9: Fly Home

Day 10: Arrive Home (Depending on flight schedules we may land Day 9)

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Trip downloads

Here you’ll find important additional trip supporting documents.

Kit list

Kind words from fellow adventurers

“The experience was something i’ll never forget!”

Me and some friends took part in the National 3 Peaks Challenge and from start to finish Martyn and the team were professional, laid out exactly what was going to happen and were always on hand to help with any questions. The experience was something i’ll never forget. I would recommend Advocate Events to anyone partaking in such activities.

Darren.B + 3 Peaks Challenge

“I cannot praise them highly enough!”

I’ve participated in three challenges with Advocate Events: a Snowdon climb, the National 3 Peaks, and the Irish Peaks. Each event was impeccably organized, thanks to Martyn, Jo, and their team. Their communication, professionalism, and meticulous planning ensured I felt safe and supported throughout. I highly recommend Advocate Events for anyone seeking similar adventures!

Sarah.C + 3 Peaks – Snowden – Irish Twin Peaks

“… an absolute professional as well as a fantastic motivator ..”

I’ve worked with Martyn on two corporate challenge events for charity. On both occasions he was an absolute professional as well as a fantastic motivator and a calming presence during the tumultuous exercise of garnering the team, raising the money and doing the actual challenge!

I would highly recommend Martyn and Advocate Events for anyone looking to do a successful challenge event.

Celeste.G + Charity and corporate events

“Everything about the whole thing was brilliant and such an enjoyable experience”

Thank you so much for organising a superb event. Everything about the whole thing was brilliant and such an enjoyable experience. Enjoyed every conversation we had before we met and it was great that we all got on so well with the great banter on the bus. Really want to do something else now so I’m sure we will meet again.

Ben.J + 5 Peaks Challenge

“I thank you and Advocate events for a trip of a life time!”

Truly a remarkable experience for this challenging event. Cannot begin to describe the way you feel when you are actually starting the climb through the rainforest. Seeing so much wonderful natural vegetation and the way of life of the people living and farming. The moorlands then become more barren and the ever changing weather conditions rising above the clouds. The alpine desert onwards and upwards is harsh. The climb to the summit will be ingrained in my memory forever. The Rama and teamraha were unreal – such a happy group of people who worked continuously day and night. Very professional – knew our group inside out and got us to the summit – INCREDIBLE! Martyn – I felt safe, looked after like a queen and I thank you and Advocate events for a trip of a life time !

Lavinia.L + Kilimanjaro

Frequently asked questions…

How fit do I need to be to trek the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail presents an invigorating challenge, demanding a solid level of physical fitness and endurance. While you need not be an elite athlete, it’s essential to be well-prepared for the diverse terrain, high altitudes, and the hike’s duration. We will provide you with a training plan for this event if you need one.

Will I get altitude sickness?

One of the most frequently asked questions about the Inca Trail is about its highest point, Warmihuañusca, which stands at 4,200 meters above sea level. You’ll spend the night at a campsite at 3,600 meters. Most hikers do not experience significant issues but everyone responds differently based on their physical condition. This is why we take time to rest and acclimatise in Cusco before starting the trek.

What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?

The dry season, from May to October, is usually the best time to hike the Inca Trail. There’s less rain during these months, so you’ll get clearer views and better trekking conditions. Just remember to check the weather, as it can still change even in the dry season.

Will we carry our own luggage while hiking the trail?

No, we have a full team of local porters and guides who will carry all your luggage and equipment. We recomend you carry a day pack to take extra layers, food, water & camera etc

Do we need to tip the porters and guides?

Tipping is not obligatory but we do recommend that our hikers do tip. Advocate Events pay everyone well and fairly for the work that they do, but the extra from tipping goes a long way to support the families and communities of the people who will support you on this life changing event.

Have more questions?

We would love to hear from you. Just give us a call or drop us an email, we have real humans always on hand to help.

Why book your next adventure with us?

Your experience is our mission. We offer unique adventure tours and events that cater to the specific needs of individuals and small groups, corporate clients, and charities. Everyone who works with us is fully qualified, paid fairly for the work they do and treated with respect and kindness.

We use local services and people in every possible instance to ensure that we create maximum benefit for the communities in the regions we visit. And above all, you and your group will make memories that will last a lifetime.

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