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Explore Cusco, South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city. The city has ancient foundations, an interesting blend of Incan and colonial influences, and seemingly endless things to do and see.
Adventure through the Sacred Valley, known for its steep and soaring scenery, its mystical significance for the Inca and the Indigenous cultures that still reside here.
Explore the greatest icon of ancient South America and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu, on a guided tour.
Travel responsibly with the largest B Corp certified operator on the Inca Trail. Since 2021, Intrepid has reduced its single use plastic on the Inca Trail by 90 per cent – this is The Intrepid Effect, and by joining this trek, you’ll play your part.
Experience the untouched, evergreen splendour of the Amazon Jungle. Explore rainforest trails with a local guide, looking out for monkeys, parrots and medicinal plants, then fall asleep in a lodge lit by candles and kerosene lamps.
This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
This trip involves a lot of walking to see the sites, and if you trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, there’ll be strenuous hiking. The trip is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Please bring comfortable footwear suitable to hiking. See the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
For those who trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, you’ll be camping with basic facilities. It’s definitely the journey as well as the final destination (Machu Picchu) that makes this way of exploring Peru worthwhile.
According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only, and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted. Please refer to the Itinerary for details.
Travellers who choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), will not follow the same routes within Machu Picchu. This means that you may not be able to have photos together, overlooking Machu Picchu. This applies to travellers on the same booking or separate bookings.
Temperatures in the Amazon can fluctuate from daytime humidity to night-time chill. Insects, especially mosquitoes, are common. We recommend tropical-strength insect repellent and light cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs, with warmer layers for the evening.
Can’t decide which trek is for you? Read up on them here:Â https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-vs-quarry-trail/Â Inca trail permits are limited and it’s important to book well in advance, read more about it here:Â https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-permit/
*Meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
*Transport: Canoe, Private minibus, Train, Plane
*Accommodation: Route 1 Inca Trail: Camping with basic facilities (3 nights), Hotel (6 nights). Route 2 – Quarry Trail: Camping with basic facilities (2 nights), Hotel (7 nights). Route 3 – Train option: Hotel (9 nights), All Routes: Jungle Lodge (2 nights)
*Cusco – Leader-led orientation walk
*Sacred Valley – Community visit & lunch
*3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters’ support. Or guided Cusco *stay (Machu Picchu by train)
*Machu Picchu – Guided tour
*Amazon Jungle – Guided nature walk
*Full passport details are required at the time of booking. The passport you travel with must match the booking details provided to us. This will be used to apply for your Inca permit and if any info doesn’t match your passport, the Inca authorities will refuse your entry. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary.
*A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 9 & 10 (Amazon Jungle) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
*This trip starts in Lima on Day 1 at 2pm. This allows time after the welcome meeting to explore Lima.
*At the time of booking, please advise whether you would like to hike the classic Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or take the train. When available, the Inca Trail will be booked as the default option. Fees may apply to changes made after the time of booking, and availability on other options cannot be guaranteed.
*Inca Trail permits are sold on a request basis only. Once a deposit is paid and passport details are provided, Intrepid will endeavour to secure a permit for you. If Inca Trail permits are unavailable by the time you book, you can opt to hike the Quarry Trail instead https://www.intrepidtravel.com/machu-picchu-peru/quarry-trail or travel to Machu Picchu by train.
*The Inca Trail closes in February to allow cleaning and restoration works. If the trek portion of your trip starts in February, you will be automatically booked to hike the Quarry Trail.
*As you can choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), you may be joined by other Intrepid and/or non-Intrepid travellers. There is also a small chance you may be the only traveller from your group on your selected option.
Before you book a trip with Intrepid, please take the time to read and understand what terms and conditions apply to your booking. For most of our trips, you will be booking directly with Intrepid so our Standard Booking Conditions and any applicable Special Conditions will apply. Please note that there are three versions of the Standard Booking Conditions depending on what location you are booking from.
Lock in your trip with a $400 flexible deposit if it departs 56+ days from now. Terms and conditions
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru. With Indigenous cultures dating back millennia, this country is a fascinating land of Amazonian rainforests, diverse wildlife and soaring mountains. Your adventure begins in Lima with a welcome meeting at 2 pm at your hotel in Lima. After, head downtown for a guided walking tour of the city’s historical centre to take in the colonial mansions, palaces and churches that line the streets. Then, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon free. You might visit the Museum of the Inquisition to learn about Spanish colonialism in Peru. Otherwise, wander around the city until night falls, then embark on an optional Lima Bites and Sights Tour with Urban Adventures, taking you to the bohemian Barranco district to sample the best local street food and Pisco cocktails.
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
This morning after breakfast, you’ll fly to Cusco. When you arrive, you’ll have a second welcome meeting at 2 pm where you’ll meet your next group of fellow travellers (some people will probably start this trip in Cusco, rather than Lima). After, get acquainted with this charming city and its intriguing blend of cultures on a leader-led walking tour. Check out some of Cusco’s main attractions, as well as its lesser-known sights, such as the Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. In the evening visit Casa Intrepid for your trek briefing, then you are free to explore at your own pace or find the perfect dinner spot with your group and try some local Peruvian favourites.
Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
This morning, drive through the Sacred Valley. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the valley has been a source of livelihood for the locals for hundreds of years. You’ll see maize crops covering the terraced walls and the sacred river beneath. Stop for lunch in a local community, where you’ll also get the chance to learn about their traditional lifestyle and maybe wrap your tongue around a few words of the Quechua language. If it’s market day, you’ll have time to browse the local handicrafts on offer, such as beads and ponchos. Visit the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba – this cafe provides employment opportunities and job training for single mothers throughout the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a snack and learn how this inclusive enterprise focuses on economic growth, gender equality and the support of vulnerable communities. Continue your journey to Ollantaytambo, opt to check out the town’s fascinating archaeological site – ancient remnants of an Inca city with soaring views over the present-day settlement.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Depending on the travel arrangements you made before the trip, during the next four days you’ll be either hiking the Inca Trail (Route 1), hiking the Quarry Trail (Route 2) or staying in Cusco for two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes (Route 3). All routes visit Machu Picchu.
While away from Cusco, the bulk of your luggage will be stored at your hotel. If you’re hiking the Inca Trail or the Quarry Trail, the evening before you leave you’ll receive a small duffle bag to carry your clothes in for the next four days (5 kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. You won’t have access to these items until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. If you’re travelling to Aguas Calientes by train, you’ll be able to leave most of your luggage at the hotel in Cusco and travel with only a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Today, travel by minivan to the 82 km marker and meet your crew of local porters, your cook and your guide. Your first day will include uphill trekking to the campsite, which sits at 3100 m above sea level. On the way, you’ll see the Inca sites of Ollantaytambo, Huillca Raccay and Llactapata, as well as incredible views of snow-capped Veronica Peak. In the evening, unwind at the campsite with a nourishing meal prepared by your cook.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
Make an early start today and drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where Incas worshipped the moon. From here, you’ll head to the small community near Qory Song’o (Golden Heart) hill, where you’ll climb to the top for the incredible views of the Soqma Perolniyoc, Pachar and Huarocondo valleys. There are also several sacred tombs in the area, protected by the locals, which you can explore with your leader and even see some of the original structures crafted from wood and leather. These remains have never been seen by travellers before, so you can be a part of this exclusive experience. Carry on to the Perolniyoc Cascade lookout, where you can stop for some snacks and photos. Arrive at the campsite, 3700 m above sea level, around lunchtime. After, set off to explore the Q’orimarca archaeological site, which once served as a checkpoint to the Incas.
Route 3 Cusco
After spending the night in Ollantaytambo, take a short drive to the town of Pisac. Pisac is well known for its market. Here you’ll have the opportunity to shop for souvenirs and perhaps try some local empanadas. Arrive back at Cusco in the afternoon, where your leader will take you to San Pedro Market, where you have the option to buy some local favourites for a picnic tomorrow.
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the trekking options only.
The Inca Trail is within the ability of anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The trail is 45 km long and often steep. Each day’s journey generally consists of seven hours of walking (uphill and downhill), with stops for snacks and lunch. Trekking usually begins at 7 am (except on the fourth morning) and you reach the campsite around 5 pm. Accommodation on the trek is camping (three nights). Double tents (twin-share) and self-inflating camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.
The Quarry Trail is within the ability of anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The hike is 26 km long and its highest pass is at 4450 m above sea level. Horses will carry your gear and camping equipment. The first two nights are spent camping, and the third night you’ll stay at a simple hotel. Double tents (twin-share) and self-inflating camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the most challenging day of the trek, as you ascend a 5-hour long steep path to reach the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’, Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 m above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 m.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the hike. A 3-hour walk takes you to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa, about 4370 m high. After enjoying the picturesque views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. After, make the 2-hour hike to Kuychicassa, the highest pass of the trek at 4450 m. From here, descend to the sacred site that the Incas called Intipunku. This is a sun gate, where the sun will stream through at particular times of the year and there are views of the Nevado Veronica mountain year-round. Head to the campsite, only a stone’s throw away and at 3600 m.
Route 3 Cusco
Today, take a taxi to Tambomachay, an archaeological site just outside of Cusco. From here you’ll take a 2 to 3 hours walk back to Cusco. On the way, stop to admire some of the archaeological sites, including Puka Pukara, Quenqo and Saksaywaman. Arrive back in Cusco in the early afternoon and enjoy some free time. Maybe visit the Merida, Mendivil and Olave art galleries and workshops before finding a great spot to sit down and enjoy some dinner.
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the trekking options only.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Start the day with a climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass at 3980 m. Enjoy views of the snow-capped mountain of Cordillera Vilcabamba before descending for around 2 to 3 hours to the ruins of Sayacmarca. Continue over the trail’s third pass to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca at 3850 m, also known as the ‘Town Above the Clouds’. Start the 2-hour descent down the Inca steps to the final night’s campsite by the Winay Wayna archaeological site.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
Today’s hike will all be downhill. The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. Explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo when you finish your trek. This is where you’ll meet with the travellers in your group who didn’t hike, before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in a hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Route 3 Train to Aguas Calientes
After a 1.5-hour drive to Ollantaytambo. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who hiked the Quarry Trail. You’ll catch a 1.5-hour train through the winding Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes. The city is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. Spend the night in a hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the Inca Trail trekking option only. There is an included lunch for travellers on the Quarry Trail trekking option.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the final and most spectacular leg of the trek to Machu Picchu – one of the famed Wonders of the World. The day starts before dawn, with breakfast at 4 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and begin hiking. Once the final checkpoint opens at 5 am, you’ll begin the final 2.5 hour trek to Intipunku (the Sun Gate). Weather permitting, you’ll enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Route 2 and 3 Machu Picchu to Cusco
Take an early bus up to Machu Picchu at 6.00 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for the Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters. This is a day to remember!
For all travellers, after taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, it’s time to catch the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stop for lunch together. From here, take a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo, then drive back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Due to safety reasons the final checkpoint for all trekkers opens at 5 am. The estimated arrival time at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate for Inca Trail trekkers is approximately 7.30 am. For Quarry Trail trekkers and train travellers, the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu departs at 6.00 am. The estimated arrival time is between 6.30 to 7.00 am. The sun rises at Machu Picchu at approximately 5.30 am, so it’s not possible to be there in time for sunrise.
Due to Intrepid’s internal safety policy, our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking trips to the mountaintop ruins of Wayna Picchu.
This morning after breakfast, you’ll have loads of free time to delve deeper into all Cusco has to offer. Those with weary legs may want to simply grab a coffee from a cafe at Plaza de Armas and do some people-watching. For those who prefer an active adventure, the hills surrounding Cusco are idyllic for mountain biking. You may want to consider purchasing a Boleto Turistico (tourism ticket) It gains access to the many fascinating museums here, such as the Contemporary Art Museum, Regional History Museum and Qosqo Native Art Museum. Please speak with your tour leader about this for more details.
Occasionally, there may be no flight scheduled between Cusco and Puerto Maldonado for tomorrow. If this happens, you’ll fly back to Lima today and then fly to Puerto Maldonado tomorrow.
Rise and shine early today for your journey into the wilds of the Peruvian Amazon. Take an early transfer to the airport, then fly to Puerto Maldonado. Here, you’ll pack a small duffle bag with essentials for the next two days. Board a motorised canoe and cruise deep into the jungle. The journey to your eco-lodge in the Madre de Dios region will take a couple of hours, so you’ll stop for lunch along the way. Settle into your thatched-roof lodge before a short orientation walk of your surroundings. Spend the evening taking in the sights and smells of the jungle and enjoy an I’m-so-far-from-home moment.
Your travel time today is approximately 6 hours.
Intrepid uses two different lodges in the same area. The activities may vary slightly according to which lodge you’re at. The included night excursion may be tonight or tomorrow. As both lodges are in the same area of the jungle, you’ll see the same wildlife and your overall jungle experience will be the same.
Get ready for an unforgettable day exploring the depths of the jungle! Set out on a half-day trek guided by local experts on the area’s flora and fauna. Learn from your guides about the medicinal and practical uses for some of the plants that grow here, which Indigenous people have been studying and using for thousands of years. On your walk, keep an eye out for rainbow macaws and butterflies, and listen for the barking call of the peccaries and chattering of monkeys that call the jungle home. This part of the Amazon is also known to house capybaras, giant otters and jabirus, so keep your eyes peeled for these exotic creatures. Enjoy your packed lunch before going back to the lodge and some free time to relax. Once the sun goes down, venture out on a night walk in search of some of the jungle’s nocturnal inhabitants (caimans, jaguars and anacondas).
Today’s jungle walk is about 11 km. The paths can get quite muddy, and the walk is quite tiring for some but well worth it!
Leave behind the natural wonders of the Amazon and return to Puerto Maldonado, where a flight will take the group back to Lima. One of our local representatives will meet you at the airport and will accompany you back to the hotel. Time permitting, the rest of the day is free to explore more of Lima’s sights and maybe do some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, maybe gather the group together for one last night out on the town and a celebratory farewell dinner of Peruvian favourites.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 to 5 hours depending on available flight connections.
With no activities planned for today, you’re free to leave after breakfast. If you’d like to stay in Lima for longer, just speak to your booking agent.
From AUD $3,995 per person, twin share · 12 Days
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Refund policies vary by operator and depend on how far in advance you cancel. Many offer partial refunds, while others may charge cancellation fees.
Date changes depend on the tour operator’s policy and availability. Fees may apply for last-minute changes.
Most tours include accommodations, transportation, a guide, and select meals or activities. Check the itinerary for specific inclusions and exclusions.
Extras like airfare, optional activities, meals not listed in the itinerary, personal expenses, and tips are usually not included.
There are group tours, private tours, self-guided tours, luxury tours, adventure tours, cultural tours, and more. Choose one that matches your interests and budget.
Book 3–6 months in advance for popular destinations or peak seasons. Last-minute bookings are possible, but availability may be limited.
Group Tour: You travel with other participants on a fixed itinerary. Private Tour: The tour is tailored for you and your companions, offering more flexibility and personalized attention.
This depends on the tour operator’s policies. Some allow it with prior arrangements, but you may still need to pay the full tour price.
Day Tour: A single-day excursion focusing on one or a few attractions. Multi-Day Tour: Covers multiple destinations over several days and includes accommodations.
Tips are usually not included. Check the operator’s policy and be prepared to tip guides, drivers, and other staff if not covered.
Yes, many operators offer accessible tours with accommodations for mobility aids. Check with the company for specifics.
Pack according to the tour type and destination. Essentials often include comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, travel documents, and personal items.
Some meals are usually included, especially breakfasts. Check the itinerary to know which meals are provided and which are not.
From $3,995.00
From $3,995.00
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