Peru in 7 Days: The Great Andean Trail To Machu Picchu

About this activity:

Distance:
105 km / 65 miles
Duration:
7 days 6 nights
Departure:
From Cusco
Destination:
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Considered:
Moderate
Type:
Adventure – Cultural – Hiking

Tour details:

If you’re planning to spend a whole week in Cusco, Natourandes has the best option for your traveling plans. Our Andean Trail Tour to Machu Picchu offers a thorough visit that goes over the most important and impressive destinies in this popular region. A tailored program that balances physical and cultural aspects for an unforgettable experience by visiting the highly requested Inca Trail that promises to leave a mark in your trip from the Andean ranges to the region’s rainforest with Machu Picchu to crown this awesome time.

Peru in 7 Days
Cusco’s Main Square as the sun rises over the city.

Join us as we get into this unique region!

Full Itinerary: Peru in 7 Days: The Great Andean Trail To Machu Picchu

On the first day if this 7 day cusco itinerary.

Upon arriving to Cusco you will be assisted from the airport to your hotel.

Let us know what your flight schedule might be.

Meeting’s time at your hotel is usually at 3pm where our local and bilingual guide is going to meet you for brief explanation about the trip, let us know how this may fit your plans beforehand to avoid any unconveniences.

san_blas_square

After the briefing explore the ‘city center walking tour’, the difference is that in this tour, you visit the places that are accessible by foot, so we will visit San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone and Regocijo Square as you learn more about local history and curiosities.

  • Accommodation: Hotel (1 night).
  • Included Activities: Cusco – Orientation Walk.
  • Optional Activities: Cusco – Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) – USD 50.00 per person. Cusco – Half Boleto Turistico Pass (access to selected archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) – USD 27.00 per person. Cusco – Cathedral Entrance Fee – USD 10.00 per person. Cusco – Coricancha Temple entrance fee – USD 6.00 per person. Cusco – Cooking Class – USD45 Cusco – Pre-Colombian Museum – USD 8.00 per person. Cusco – Inca Museum – USD 4.00 per person. Cusco – Machu Picchu Museum & Botanical Garden – USD 8.00 per person.
  • Meals Included: There are no meals included on this day.
  • Important Information: Cusco is located at 3’350 masl (11’000 fts) you should be acclimatized at least 2 days. As this tour doesn’t involve much time in Cusco, this will also give you a chance to choose some of the optional places available. The closer places to Cusco for stay and acclimatized are on Sacred Valley at 2’800 masl (9’186 fts) Please ask for a tailor made tour for our Hotel offers on the Sacred Valley if you wish your stay to be planned there.

We’ll begin by traveling for one hour to Pisaq.

The little streets of this quaint little village of Pisaq are filled with old colonial mansions and filled with stores which sell native arts and crafts.

Pisaq has a world renowned Incan marketplace and a very highly esteemed Incan historical site. Here you can witness amazing Incan structures, houses, temples, astronomical observatories, and the largest ancient cemetery in South America. Pisaq is located at 2950 meters or 9000 feet high, below Cusco.

Pisaq's empty park buildings during the afternoon.

Trip to Ollantaytambo (which takes 1.5 hours), with an awesome visit to the historical site of Ollantaytambo (2h). Ollantaytambo is on the opposite side of Pisaq, towards Machu Picchu, it is home to some of the most spectacular Incan sites of Peru, some would say only 2nd to Machu Picchu. The town itself is known as the living Incan village, as it conserves the most emblematic Incan architecture in Peru.

A choice hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Breakfast and lunch included

We will pick you up at 5:00 am from your hotel after breakfast.

We will drive for about 45 minutes to the site called ‘’Kilometer 82’’ or Piscacucho where we will begin the inca trail hike. Altitude is considerably lower than in Cusco (2,673 meters or 8,770 feet) so the first hours won’t be too hectic for this hike.

Urubamba's river crossing the Sacred Valley around the beginning point of the Inca Trail.

The first section of the inca trail to Machu Picchu is relatively flat, and we will trek for about 3 hours to our lunch spot, arriving in a green valley where we’ll visit the first archaeological site called Patallaqta, and here we will be able to look down and see more located in the valley. Then we will hike 20 minutes more until we arrive at our lunch site located at Tarayoc. After enjoying a big lunch, we will start the next stretch of the inca trail hike to our campsite, which will take 2 hours. This part of the inca trail machu picchu has small ascents and descents, and we will hike through a wooded valley until we reach our first campsite, Wayllabamba, which is at 3,000 meters, or 9,842 feet.

  • Accommodation: Campsite (1 night)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

The second day of the inca trail is the most challenging since we will climb over 1,200 meters (3,940 feet) to reach the highest pass and will hike 12 km (7 miles) in total. 5 hours of hiking are needed to reach the highest point of this path.

Many biospheres can be appreciated through this trail and you’ll get to experience this changes by going from the high rainforest to the Andean highlands were life is more difficult to find.

Warmiwañuska's pass or the pass of the dead woman is the highest altittude point during the Inca Trail hiking tour.

After passing Dead Woman’s Pass (13,828 feet), we’ll rest for a bit, this will be a perfect time to take some pictures and enjoy the scenery. Then, our descent to the campsite shall begin, this may take a bit less than 2 hours. We’ll eventually reach our campsite called Pacaymayo, at 11,910 feet. The rest of the day will be free for us to explore the surroundings after lunch and a dinner under the starry sky aswell.

  • Accommodation: Campsite (1 night)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

This day will be the most hectic out of the 4 days in the Inca Trail path, 10 miles wait for us this day as we visit several ruins. An ascent from the valley will last two hours approximately to reach Runkuracay.

After a historical overview, we continue to the second pass, Runkuracay, (12,800 feet). The subsequent two-hour descent leads us to our lunch site, with an optional visit to the Inca site, Sayaqmarka. Post-lunch, a four-hour hike takes us to the final campsite.

"Wiñay wayna", translated as eternal youth in Quechua, is the last set of ruins that one gets to see on the Inca Trail path.

The trail involves slight ascents and descents until we reach the archaeological center, Phuyupatamarka, a potential campsite. Following the tour, we descend to visit the farming terraces at Intipata, continuing to our last campsite, Wiñaywayna, situated at 2,650 meters (8,694 feet). This marks our final night on the Inca Trail, and after supper, we express gratitude to our exceptional team for their dedicated efforts.

An early wake up call will demark our final day for this tour. After breakfast we’ll head to Inti Punku (Sun’s Gate) and the entrance of Machu Picchu. 4 miles will distance us from this stop.

A couple poses for a selfie around the Guardian's house in Machu Picchu's park.

Machu Picchu’s landscape will welcome us as the sun rises over us. Then, we’ll descent to the world wonder itself: Machu Picchu (7874 FASL.) After checking in the inca citadel, a private tour will begin for us, 2 hours will be more than enough to visit the citadel’s highlights.

After leaving the world wonder, we’ll be boarding a bus for a half-hour ride to Machu Picchu’s town (Aguas Calientes) to enjoy some time on our own in this picturesque location. By the time that our departing train reaches the train station, we’ll be ready to leave Machu Picchu and we’ll begin our return to Cusco.

  • Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)
  • Meals Included: Breakfast
  • Optional Activities: Mountain Wayna Picchu USD 75.00 per person.Mountain Machu Picchu USD 75.00 per person. (Must be bought previously)

Time to say goodbye. Depending on your flight’s schedule we might be able to arrange an extra activity, however, this will be up to you, but for our services this day will demark their end.

View from a plane's window seat over the andes.

  • Optional Activities:Maras Salt and Moray Terraces  USD 31.00 per person. Rainbow Mountain Tour USD 55.00 per person.

Additional Information

Porters: Depending on your level of physical fitness, the hike can be strenuous. If you would like to reduce the load you have to carry, you can hire an extra porter to carry your belongings. You can hire them to carry 8 kg (18 lb) for $80 USD, or 15 kg (33 lb) for $150 USD. Included in this service is the porter’s salary, entrance to the inca trail to machu picchu and his food. If you decide to use this service, the porter will carry your packs until we reach Aguas Calientes. You must reserve your extra porter at the same time you reserve the trip, because the extra porter is counted as part of the 500-person limit on the inca trail.

Huayna Picchu: If you are interested in climbing Huayna Picchu, the mountain overlooking Machu Picchu, there is an additional fee of $75 USD per person for us to buy your entrance ticket. Spaces are limited, for information about this hike, please contact us.

Additional Night in Aguas Calientes: After 4-day inca trail, some people prefer to spend the 4th night in Aguas Calientes instead of returning to Cusco right away. This can give you more time to enjoy the ruins of Machu Picchu, relax in the hot springs in Aguas Calientes, and in general not have to worry about the time. This option is also good for those who want to climb Huayna Picchu but want to have some time to rest after the inca trail hike, so you can return to Machu Picchu the next day to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain. Please contact us for more information about options and prices.

Sleeping Bags:: If you would like to rent a sleeping bag from us, the price is $25 USD per person in total for this 4-day inca trail hike.

Trekking Poles: We recommend taking trekking poles on the hike especially when hiking downhill. If you would like to rent a pair for the whole hike, the price is $10 USD per person.

Private Tent: In our service, we include Mountain tents that are 2-person tents. However, if you would like to reserve a private tent the price is $40 USD.

Vistadome Train: Our price includes a return train ticket in the Expedition train, however, if you would like to upgrade to the Vistadome train the price is an additional $50 USD per person.

  • Immerse yourself in history and legend that will make you feel closer to the Incas.
  • Enjoy the Cusco region cuisine in the best restaurants and try the roasted ‘’cuy’’ .
  • Connect your heart with the energy of the mountains and glaciers while you travel through the gorgeous Sacred Valley.
  • Get Inca Trail, the famous hike that ends in Machu Picchu as you get to follow the same path and stone steps that the Inca royalty used to walk to their royal state.
  • Explore many kinds ecological zones throughout the hike and a huge variety of flora and fauna.
  • Make the best of your time visiting a World Heritage Site situated on a spectacular mountain ridge.
  • The best asnwer for: what to do in peru for a week.
  • Perfect for everyone who wants to experience this world heritage hike. Especially good for hike lovers, the trail offers many historical ruins as well.
  • Altitude sickness is most common at elevations above 6,500’/1,900m and results from the body adjusting to a decreased amount of oxygen. Symptoms can include lightheadedness, nausea, headaches, and dehydration. It is important at least two days of acclimatization in Cusco or surroundings before start the Trip.
  • The hike everyday is a challenge, 8 hours of walking per day make the difference. Please bring comfortable footwear suitable to hiking. See the ‘What to Bring’ section of the trip notes for more information.
  • To protect the historic trail, the number of people allowed to hike the Inca Trail each day is 500. For this reason, you should reserve your spot as soon as possible. During the high tourist season from April to September, permits can sell out 6-8 months in advance.
  • If you are wondering what to see in peru in 7 days, this tour plan is the best choice.

Additional Prices

FAQs Peru in 7 Days: The Great Andean Trail To Machu Picchu

Q: How do I reach Cusco for the tour?
A: Most participants arrive by air into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Our team can assist with transportation details upon request.

 

Q: What fitness level is required for the Inca Trail trek?
A: The Inca Trail Machu Picchu involves moderate physical activity. Participants should be in good health and prepared for hiking at high altitudes. Consult with your healthcare provider before the tour.

 

Q: Are permits required for the Inca Trail?
A: Yes, permits are necessary for the Inca Trail. Our team manages the permit process, ensuring a seamless experience for participants, you’ll only need to worry about carrying your personal belongings.

 

Q: What type of accommodations are provided during the tour?
A: We offer comfortable accommodations, ranging from hotels in Cusco to camping facilities along the Inca Trail. Details on each accommodation are provided in the itinerary.

 

Q: Is Machu Picchu the final destination of the tour?
A: Yes, Machu Picchu is the grand finale of our Peru in 7 days tour. Participants have ample time to explore and absorb the magnificence of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Q: Can I extend my stay in Cusco after the tour?
A: Absolutely. Participants are welcome to extend their stay in Cusco, and our team can assist in making additional arrangements.

Q: What is the best time to take the Peru in 7 Days Tour?
A: The tour is available year-round, but the ideal time depends on weather preferences. Check our recommendations for the best seasons to visit Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

 

Q: How can I book the Peru in 7 Days Tour?
A: Booking can be done through our website or by contacting our dedicated customer service team. We recommend to contact us to solve any inquiry you may have.

Includes

  • All transport from your arrival
  • Meals, unless expressly states
  • Professionally guided tour

Not included

  • Entrance tickets to monuments and museums
  • Personal expenses
  • Services not specifically stated in the itinerary
  • Tips to guide and driver

Video Peru in 7 Days: The Great Andean Trail To Machu Picchu

from:
$1135.00
per person
From $1135.00
por persona

You might also like...

Andes To The Jungle Trip Of Contrasts Day 1

Andes To The Jungle Trip Of Contrasts

From US$1899.00 per person
Peru, a truly wealthy nation of rich cultural and ecological diversity. We strive to give you the best of Peru in a single trip! 10 days of adventure through the...
Sacsayhuaman's archaeological park seen from the sky.

The Definitive Cusco City Tour

From US$75.00 per person
Natourandes invites you to experience Cusco's city with the best city tour offer out there! Enjoy the ancient capital of the Inca culture, amaze yourself with the many feats that...
Tambopata

Tambopata's Pure Rainforest

From US$445.00 per person
Embark on a transformative 3-day, 2-night odyssey in Tambopata's pure rainforest, where nature's symphony unfolds. Expert-guided adventures, boat excursions and eco-luxury lodges thoughtfully curated for those interested exploration, offer a...
Natourandes Classic Inca Trail destination

The Best Classic Inca Trail Hike To Machu Picchu

From US$760.00 per person
The Qhapaq Ñan was a path that traversed through the entire Inca empire, currently, the Inca Trail tour lets hundreds of visitors to experience this ancient path each year by...
1
2
Last Page
Choose Date:
Enter the number of people
Choose an option:
TOTAL:
$
0.00
 USD
Add Traveller Details:
0.00
0.00