Inca Trail Andean Adventure 15 Days

Arrival – Jorge Chávez International Airport

Your Peruvian adventure begins in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital. Our bilingual guide greets you with a personalized welcome sign.

Transfer to Miraflores

Private escort to your boutique 4-star hotel in the upscale Miraflores district, steps from dramatic Pacific Ocean cliffs.

Optional: Lima City Tour

If arriving before noon, explore Lima’s highlights:

• UNESCO Historic Center: Colonial architecture and grand plazas
• San Francisco Monastery: Ornate church with mysterious bone-lined catacombs
• Barranco Neighborhood: Bohemian district with colorful street art

Overnight: Boutique hotel in Miraflores, Lima

Morning – Miraflores Exploration

Leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Free time to explore:

• Larcomar: Cliffside shopping center with stunning ocean views
• Artisan Markets: Handcrafted Peruvian souvenirs
• Coastal Promenade: Tree-lined streets and oceanfront parks

Midday – Cruz del Sur Bus Transfer

Private transfer to the bus terminal. Board a luxury first-class coach for the 4-hour scenic journey south along the Pan-American Highway.

Afternoon – Coastal Desert Scenery

Watch Lima’s urban sprawl give way to dramatic coastal desert landscape, dotted with ancient archaeological sites and traditional fishing villages.

5:00 PM – Paracas Arrival

Arrive in the seaside town of Paracas, gateway to South America’s most important marine ecosystems.

Overnight: Hotel near the port in Paracas | Distance: 250 km

8:00 AM – Ballestas Islands Boat Excursion

Board a covered speedboat for the “Peruvian Galápagos”—a 30-minute journey across Paracas Bay.

Candelabro Geoglyph

Pass the mysterious 180-meter figure etched into a sandy hillside, visible only from the sea.

Wildlife Encounters

The rugged Ballestas Islands host over 150 species:

• Humboldt Penguins: Endangered species unique to this coast
• South American Sea Lions: Playful colonies on rocky outcrops
• Peruvian Boobies: Thousands of diving seabirds
• Cormorants & Pelicans: Massive guano-producing colonies

Paracas National Reserve

This 335,000-hectare protected area hosts nearly half of Peru’s coastal bird and marine mammal populations.

Afternoon – Transfer to Nazca

Return to port by noon for lunch. Board afternoon first-class bus for the journey to Nazca.

Overnight: Hotel in the oasis town of Nazca

Early Morning – Nazca Airport Transfer

The highlight of Peru’s coastal region awaits—an unforgettable overflight of the mysterious Nazca Lines.

40-Minute Scenic Overflight

Board a 6-passenger Cessna Grand Caravan for views over the Pampa Colorada:

• The Hummingbird: 93 meters long, most famous figure
• The Spider: Intricate 46-meter arachnid
• The Monkey: Curled tail spanning 135 meters
• The Condor: 130-meter wingspan bird figure
• Geometric Designs: Lines and trapezoids puzzling archaeologists

UNESCO World Heritage

Created between 500 BCE and 500 CE by removing rust-colored stones to reveal lighter soil beneath. Visible only from the air, these geoglyphs have mystified researchers for decades.

Afternoon/Evening – Overnight Bus to Arequipa

Scenic 9-hour journey through Peru’s southern desert, arriving around midnight.

Overnight: Colonial hotel in Arequipa’s historic center | Distance: 560 km

Morning – Rest and Independent Exploration

Recover from your overnight journey. Arequipa, the “White City,” features stunning colonial architecture built from white sillar volcanic stone beneath three towering volcanoes (2,335 m).

Afternoon – Comprehensive City Tour

Explore Arequipa’s colonial treasures:

• Plaza de Armas: One of South America’s most beautiful main squares
• Santa Catalina Monastery: Sprawling 16th-century citadel covering 20,000 m²—a city within a city
• Claustros de la Compañía: Ornate colonial-era churches
• Yanahuara Viewpoint: Panoramic views with snow-capped Misti volcano backdrop

Santa Catalina Monastery Highlights

Wander through streets, plazas, and cloisters painted in vibrant blues and oranges. This self-contained religious citadel operated independently for nearly 400 years.

Overnight: Hotel in Arequipa | Elevation: 2,335 m

Early Morning – Departure from Arequipa

Spectacular 4-hour drive across the high Andean plateau to the Colca Valley.

Changing Landscapes

Climb through dramatic terrain transformations:

• Irrigated Farmland: Green valleys surrounding Arequipa
• Volcanic Terrain: Stark, otherworldly landscapes
• Patapampa Pass: Cross at 4,910 meters—the trip’s highest point

Pampa Cañahuas National Vicuña Reserve

Camera ready for vicuña herds grazing beside the road. These elegant llama relatives were nearly hunted to extinction but now thrive under protection.

Colca Valley Arrival

Descend into one of the world’s deepest canyons at 3,400 meters (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon). Traditional lunch in charming Chivay town.

Afternoon – La Calera Hot Springs

Relaxing soak in natural therapeutic mineral waters:

• Temperature: 38°C (100°F)
• Setting: Stunning mountain views
• Benefits: Therapeutic minerals for tired muscles

Overnight: Comfortable lodge in Chivay | Elevation: 3,630 m

Pre-Dawn Departure

Drive to Cruz del Condor (Condor Cross)—one of the world’s best viewpoints for observing Andean condors in their natural habitat.

7:00 AM – Condor Viewing

As morning thermals rise from the canyon depths, watch in awe:

• Wingspan: Up to 3 meters (10 feet)
• Proximity: Often pass just meters from the viewing platform
• Canyon Drop: 1,200 meters of dramatic backdrop
• Conservation: These endangered giants are South America’s largest flying birds

Return Through Colca Valley

Traditional village stops along the route:

• Maca: Colonial church and local crafts
• Yanque: Pre-Inca terraces still in use
• Pinchollo: Agricultural fields farmed for over 1,000 years

Lunch in Chivay

Traditional Peruvian meal before the return journey to Arequipa.

Overnight: Hotel in Arequipa | Distance: 180 km return

Morning – Flight to Cusco

Transfer to Rodríguez Ballón Airport for the spectacular 1-hour flight to Cusco, ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

Scenic Flight Highlights

• Snow-Capped Peaks: Andean giants reaching over 6,000 meters
• Glacial Lakes: Turquoise jewels dotting the high valleys
• Rugged Terrain: The landscape that made this region impenetrable

Cusco Arrival (3,400 m / 11,150 ft)

Our guide welcomes you at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Transfer to your historic hotel near the Plaza de Armas.

Afternoon – Altitude Acclimatization

Crucial rest day before the adventures ahead:

• Avoid: Strenuous activity
• Drink: Coca tea (mate de coca)
• Stay: Well hydrated
• Explore: Cobblestone streets, local markets, plaza cafés

Overnight: Colonial hotel in Cusco | Elevation: 3,400 m

Morning – Continued Acclimatization

Leisurely morning to let your body adjust before the afternoon exploration.

Afternoon – Cusco City Tour

Explore Cusco’s extraordinary Inca and colonial heritage:

Cathedral on Plaza de Armas

• Religious Art: Priceless colonial paintings and gold altars
• Famous Painting: Last Supper featuring roasted guinea pig as main course

Qoricancha – Temple of the Sun

• Inca Mastery: Walls once covered in gold sheets
• Colonial Layer: Santo Domingo Church built atop Inca stonework
• Architecture: Stunning example of two cultures merged

Four Archaeological Sites

• Sacsayhuáman: Massive fortress with zigzag walls, stones up to 125 tons
• Q’enqo: Mysterious amphitheater carved from single limestone outcrop
• Puka Pukara: Red fortress guarding the ancient road
• Tambomachay: Sacred spring shrine with still-flowing Inca fountains

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco | Elevation: 3,400 m

Morning – Departure for Sacred Valley

Full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas—the agricultural heartland that fed the empire.

Pisac Archaeological Complex

• Location: Hilltop site with commanding valley views
• Terraces: Massive agricultural terraces cascading down the mountainside
• Citadel: Ancient fortress guarding the valley entrance

Pisac Artisan Market

Browse Peru’s most famous craft market:

• Textiles: Hand-woven alpaca and llama wool
• Ceramics: Traditional Andean pottery
• Silver Jewelry: Handcrafted pieces at excellent prices

Lunch in Urubamba

Traditional Peruvian buffet in the valley’s main town.

Ollantaytambo Fortress

• History: One of few places where Incas defeated the Spanish
• Temple of the Sun: Massive rose-colored stone walls
• Engineering: Stones transported from quarries across the valley
• Living Inca Town: Original water channels still flow through streets

Overnight: Hotel in Sacred Valley | Elevation: 2,792 m

Early Morning – Transfer to Trailhead

After early breakfast, drive to Piscacucho (Km 82, elevation 2,720 m). Our trekking team awaits with permits verified at the official checkpoint.

Meet Your Team

• Professional Guide: Licensed Inca Trail specialist
• Camp Cook: Prepares fresh meals throughout trek
• Porters: Carry camping equipment and supplies

Trek Begins – Cross the Urubamba River

Suspension bridge crossing marks the official start of the legendary Classic Inca Trail.

Morning Trek – River Valley Trail

Follow the valley through eucalyptus groves and past small farms. Spectacular views of snow-capped Mount Veronica (5,893 m) ahead.

3 Hours – Llactapata Archaeological Site

Fascinating introduction to Inca architecture along the trail.

Afternoon – Ascent to Camp

Trail steepens as you enter the subtropical zone. Arrive at Wayllabamba camp (3,000 m) where your crew has set up tents and prepared hot drinks.

Evening

Freshly cooked dinner under the stars.

Trek Stats: 12 km | 5-6 hours | Elevation: 2,720 m to 3,000 m

The Most Challenging Day

Early start ascending toward Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass)—the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet).

Changing Vegetation Zones

The trail climbs steeply through dramatic ecosystems:

• Cloud Forest: Lush vegetation and birdsong
• Humid Puna: Grassland with hardy plants
• Alpine Tundra: Stark, windswept terrain near the pass

Trekking Tips

• Pace: Follow your guide’s steady rhythm
• Poles: Use trekking poles for stability
• Breath: Take your time—this is a marathon, not a sprint

Summit – Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m)

Tremendous sense of achievement awaits. 360-degree panoramic views of snow-capped Andean peaks stretching to the horizon.

Afternoon – Descent to Pacaymayo

600-meter descent through different ecosystems. Excellent opportunities to spot exotic birds and orchids. Well-deserved hot meal awaits at camp.

Trek Stats: 11 km | 6-7 hours | Max Elevation: 4,215 m | Camp: 3,600 m

The Longest and Most Beautiful Day

Cross two more passes while visiting spectacular Inca archaeological sites.

Morning – Runkurakay Ruins

Short climb to circular ruins of an ancient tambo (way station) with commanding valley views.

Second Pass (3,970 m)

Continue ascending to the day’s first high point, then descend past a serene mountain lake.

Sayacmarca – “Inaccessible Town”

Impressive ruins perched dramatically on a narrow ridge. Explore this cliff-edge citadel before lunch on the trail.

Afternoon – Original Inca Road

Traverse a masterpiece of ancient engineering:

• Construction: Carved into vertical cliff faces
• Cloud Forest: Lush vegetation dripping with orchids, bromeliads, and hanging moss
• Wildlife: Hummingbirds and exotic bird species

Phuyupatamarka – “Cloud-Level Town” (3,680 m)

Magnificent ruins with five ceremonial baths and stunning sunset views.

Evening – Descent to Wiñay Wayna

1,000-meter descent through dense jungle to “Forever Young”—a breathtaking terraced complex cascading down the mountainside. Camp near these illuminated ruins for your final night on the trail.

Trek Stats: 16 km | 7-8 hours | Camp: 2,650 m

3:30 AM – Final Push to Machu Picchu

Wake early for the magical conclusion of your 43-kilometer journey.

5:00 AM – Checkpoint and Final Trek

Pass through the checkpoint and trek the final stretch through dense cloud forest. Anticipation builds with every step.

Dawn – Intipunku (Sun Gate) at 2,720 m

Your first breathtaking view of the Lost City of the Incas spread below, golden in the early morning light. Pause to absorb this moment you’ve trekked 4 days to experience.

Morning – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Comprehensive 2-hour exploration of the ancient citadel:

• Temple of the Sun: Finest stonework in Machu Picchu
• Intihuatana: Astronomical sundial and sacred ritual stone
• Room of Three Windows: Ceremonial chamber with symbolic openings
• Agricultural Terraces: Engineering that fed the citadel

Free Time

Explore independently or climb Huayna Picchu (extra permit required, purchased at booking).

Afternoon – Return to Cusco

• Bus: Descend to Aguas Calientes for late lunch
• Train: Expedition class through Urubamba canyon to Ollantaytambo
• Transfer: Private vehicle to Cusco
• Celebration: Final group dinner to commemorate your achievement

Trek Stats: 4 km | Sun Gate: 2,720 m | Machu Picchu: 2,430 m

Morning – Final Breakfast in Cusco

Enjoy your last meal in the imperial city before transfer to the airport.

Flight to Lima

1.5-hour flight to Jorge Chávez International Airport.

Connection Options

• International Departure: Connect with your flight home
• Amazon Extension: Continue to the rainforest
• Lake Titicaca: Explore the world’s highest navigable lake
• Lima Culinary: Extra days in Peru’s gastronomic capital

End of Services

Our services conclude at Lima airport. We hope this 15-day journey through Peru’s most spectacular destinations has created memories that will last a lifetime.

¡Buen viaje!