Fly to Cuzco and transfer to the Sacred Valley for a period of acclimatization. Spend a day enjoying a private tour of the Sacred Valley, with visits to the fortress of Ollantaytambo and the renowned market of Pisac. Then, begin your once in a lifetime journey on the ancient trail of the Incas with a morning trip to km 82, where our hike starts. Local porters and guides ensure that the trip is worry-free. Fascinating ruins and spectacular mountain scenery fill every day of the hike. On the final day, climb the steps to Intipunku, the 'Sun Gate', to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu before touring the famous Inca ruins. Afterwards, spend some time in the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can reminisce and take notes about your trek in a beautiful and relaxing setting. Return to Cuzco for an overnight before flying back to Lima for your international flight.

*****NOTE: A scanned copy of the valid passport is mandatory to book the Inca Trail. The passport copy will be used to purchase the Inca Trail permit. This passport number and name will be used to identify yourself as you enter the check point at the start of the trail and throughout the hike. If this information does not match the information you have submitted at time of confirmation, then you will be subject to delay, fine, and/or cancellation of admission to the Inca Trail*****

INCA TRAIL ALERT: In an effort to preserve and protect the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Peruvian governing bodies have taken drastic measures in the past few years to limit the amount of people hiking the Trail. Kensington Tours works within the framework of these regulations in order to properly protect the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. As of March 2004, no more than 500 people (including support staff) per day are allowed on the Inca Trail and this number is strictly adhered to. Only 500 permits are issued per day and once this limit is reached, the Trail is effectively closed off for the day and no further bookings can be made. Reservations are not held on the Trail and all permits must be bought as far as possible in advance with complete and correct passport information, to which no modifications can be made. A permit cannot be purchased until the client has paid and provided their valid passport information for travel during the dates of the trek. Once purchased, Inca Trail permits are 100% non refundable.
*Campsites are subject to change according to the designation of the governmental institution regulating the use of the Inca Trail, as well as to our guide’s criteria and the group progress **Departure and arrival times are suggested and subject to change depending on the day’s events.

Limais situated halfway alongPeru’s desert coastline, literally stuck between the desert and the deep blue sea. The valley was once dominated by hundreds of pre-Inca temples and palaces. Pizarro chose the palace of local chief Taurí Chusko as the site of the city’s inauguration on January 6, 1535, and thus beganLima’s colonial history, reflected in the opulent mansions with Moorish latticed wooden balconies that graceLima’s plazas. The main square, Plaza de Armas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, complete with paths, gardens and an elegant bronze fountain. Surrounding the main plaza are the Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, the Town Hall and the impressive Palacio de Gobierno (GovernmentPalace). Cultural attractions aside, areas such as Barranco, Miraflores andSan Isidrohave much to offer the visitor in the way of shopping, restaurants and nightlife.

Upon arrival you will be met by our local representative who will help you locate your vehicle.

Our local representative will meet you for an airport transfer, with private vehicle and professional driver.

Conveniently located right beside theJorgeChavezAirportinLima, the Ramada Costa del Sol is a great choice for travelers. The 130 guest rooms include mini bars and climate control, so that one may feel practically at home. Breakfast offers a lovely range of options, with all the necessities required to start the day off. Also try the hotel restaurants, which feature items from across the world. For those who want to do some sightseeing, the Limas Cathedral and Larcomar shopping center and entertainment complex are not far from the hotel. Otherwise, spend some time using the sauna and massage services, which will guarantee a relaxing trip.

Overnight at Ramada Costa Del Sol.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a valley in the Andes of Peru, close to Cusco. It is fed by rivers which descend through adjoining valleys and gorges, and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. The valley was appreciated by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities. It was one of the empire's main points for the extraction of natural wealth, and the best place for maize production in Peru. The Sacred Valley is generally understood to include everything between Písac and Ollantaytambo, parallel to the Urubamba River, or Vilcanota River or Wilcamayu, as this Sacred River is called when passing through the valley.

Our local representative will meet you for an airport transfer, with private vehicle and professional driver.

Fly from Lima to Cusco. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Flight times are subject to change based on availability and seasonality.

Our local representative will meet you for a transfer, with private vehicle and professional driver to your hotel in the Sacred Valley. Transfer time is approximately 2 hours

Take the rest of the day to acclimatize and enjoy time at leisure surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.

The 87-room Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a one-hour drive from the ancient Inca capital of Cusco and close to Machu Picchu. The Sonesta Yucay Posada is a former 18th century colonial-style monastery and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Overnight at Sonesta Posadas del Inca Sacred Valley Yucay.

Enjoy a full day excursion to the Pisac ruins located on the top of a hill overlooking the Vilcanota (Urubamba) river, a series of terraces, canals, houses, food storage and temples can be seen in very good shape. The most notable is the “Intihuatana” or solar calendar made out of a big piece of red stone. Continue to visit the Pisac Market where artisans from all over the area congregate to sell their crafts. Buffet lunch in a countryside restaurant and visit to Ollantaytambo, a fortress built during the Inca Empire, excellent sample of military architecture. 8 hours in duration

Includes tourist ticket and entrance fees.

Overnight at Sonesta Posadas del Inca Sacred Valley Yucay.

Most commonly refers to a 1-3 day trek to Machu Picchu; however, in antiquity the Inca road system covered approximately 22,500 km (14,000 mi) and provided access to over three million km² of territory. Among the many roads and trails constructed in pre-Columbian South America, the Inca road system (El Camino Inca) of Peru was the most extensive. Traversing the Andes mountains and reaching heights of over 5,000 m (16,500 feet) above sea level, the trails connected the regions of the Inca empire from the northern provincial capital in Quito, Ecuador past the modern city of Santiago, Chile in the south.

Tips for Inca Trail hike Hiking pants and T-shirts are recommended during the day, complemented by sweaters, fleeces and waterproof jackets. It is very convenient to have light rain gear available in the daypack (rain poncho or jacket and/or rain pants) as the weather changes easily and rains can suddenly occur. At night, warm clothing is required in the first two campsites, down jackets can be useful, otherwise a fleece and a jacket are sufficient. During the third day (if sunny) and in Machu Picchu, convertible hiking pants are useful, as can be switched into shorts if necessary. Machu Picchu has a warm climate, colling down only in the evening.

Climate Cusco’s climate is divided into two differentiated seasons: the rainy season, from November to April (the heaviest rainfalls occurring usually between January – March); and the dry season, from May to October. The dry season is colder, so temperatures can drop to below 0 degrees at night.
Along the Inca Trail, temperatures range from 15-20ºC during the day if it’s sunny, to 05-10ºC during the day if not sunny or 0-05ºC at night in the first 2 campsites. At Wiñaywayna and Machu Picchu, at lower altitude, temperatures are usually warmer though warm clothes are still recommended at night

Between 04:00-04:30am our private transport and staff will pick you up from your hotel. We drive to Piskacuchu (2700m/8856ft), a community located on the 82nd kilometer of the Cusco –Machu Picchu railroad, which is the starting point of the Inca Trail. We begin our hike by crossing the bridge over the Urubamba River and walking along its left shore as it flows northwest along the Sacred Valley. Following the trail along a flat terrain, we arrive in Miskay (2800m/9184ft), to then ascend and finally see, from the tallest part of an overlook, the impressive Inca city of Llactapata (2650m/8692ft). We continue trekking along the valley created by the Kusichaca River, gradually climbing for about five hours until we reach the community of Wayllabamba (3000m/9840ft), where we set our first camp. All along the way we enjoy spectacular views of the Vilcanota ridge on the opposite side of the Urubamba River, where the impressive Veronica peak reigns at 5832 meters above sea level. Not to mention the diversity of wild flora and fauna that can be found all along the valley.

Meals: B,L,D
Total Distance: 12 km (7,47 miles)
Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours
Maximum altitude point:: 3,000 m (9,840 ft)
Campsite altitude: 3,000m (9,840ft)

Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience hiking the Inca Trail with your own private English speaking guide.

Overnight at Inca Trail.

We wake up at around 6:00 am and after breakfast we begin the most difficult part of the trek, which consists of an abrupt and steep ascent that stretches for 9 km. Along this climb, the landscape changes from sierra to puna (a dry and high area with little vegetation). On the way to the first mountain pass, the Abra Warmihuañusca (Dead Woman´s Pass – 4200m/13776ft), we may see domesticated llamas and alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at high altitude. We also cross an area of the so called cloud forest, which is the habitat for many different kinds of birds like hummingbirds and sparrows, and the Andean bear, which is also called the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctus Ornatus). We advise that on this day specially, your daypack is well stocked with candies, chocolates and coca leaves that will keep your sugar level high, and help with altitude sickness. Immediately after the pass, we descend into the Pacaymayo valley (3600m/11808ft), where we camp after approximately 7h of hiking.

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance: 11 km (6,84 miles)
Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
Maximum altitude point:: 4,200 m (13,776 ft)
Campsite altitude: 3,500 m (11,480 ft)

Overnight at Inca Trail.

This day is the longest but also the most impressive and the most interesting, due the number of archaeological sites and the lush cloud forest area that we cross, so rich in Andean flora and fauna. From Pacaymayo we climb to the second pass, the Abra Runkurakay (3970m/13022ft). Halfway up, we stop to visit the archaeological complex with the same name. This site, located at 3800m/12464ft, consists of a small oval structure that is believed to have served the purpose of a watchtower. After going over the pass, we descend towards Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) and enter the cloud forest to finally arrive at Sayacmarca (3624m/11887ft). This is a beautiful complex made up of a semicircular construction, enclosures at different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios and irrigation canals. Continuing up an easy climb, we arrive at the third pass, the Abra Phuyupatamarca (3700m/12136ft). Along this climb we can appreciate the magnitude of the Incas´ ancient craft, by walking along paths semi-detached from the mountain, and seeing rocks that fill up ravines in perfect order, saving the trail from the multileveled Andean geography. We go through an Inca tunnel to later arrive at the aforementioned pass and down to the complex of the same name. This is one of the most complete and best-preserved archaeological complexes along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and is located on the highest point of a mountain. Curiously, Phuyupatamarca means ¨town over the clouds¨. From above, one can observe a sophisticated sacred complex made up of water fountains with solid foundations, and also impressive views of the Urubamba River valley. We continue our trek down the long descending stone steps that lead us to Wiñaywayna (2650m/8692ft), an impressive Inca complex made up of an agricultural center with numerous terraces, a religious sector and an urban sector, close to which our camp is located. This campsite hosts a trekker lodge, a bar and bathrooms with hot shower facilities. After visiting the impressive archaeological site, we enjoy our farewell dinner at our camp.

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance: 16 km (9,94 miles)
Estimated walking time: 8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,900 m (12,792 ft)
Campsite altitude: 2,650 m (8,692 ft)

Overnight at Inca Trail.

Aguas Calientes is the colloquial name forMachu Picchupueblo, a town on theUrubambaRiverinPeru. It is best known as the closest town to the tourist attractionMachu Picchu, which is 6 km away, about a 1.5 hour walk. It has many hotels and restaurants for tourists, as well as natural hot baths, which give the town its name ("hot waters" in Spanish). The hydro electric plant about 8 km past Aguas Calientes is the end of the train line fromCusco. A few trains leave Cusco each morning to transport tourists from Cusco to Aguas Calientes to visitMachu Picchu; they are also used by local residents.

On this fourth and last day we get up at 4.00 am to leave Wiñaywayna an hour later and climb to the Intipunku, or The Sun Gate. This will take an hour of hiking along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle. From this fabulous spot, we may see the sunrise over the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. From Intipunku we descend into Machupicchu, and 40 minutes later we enter the citadel from the highest point through the ¨House of the Guardians¨. We then descend to the control point where we register ourselves and leave our backpacks. We immediately begin a complete guided tour of the Inca citadel that will take approximately two hours. You will then have free time to walk around, or climb the Huayna Picchu Mountain, where one can experience spectacular views of all of Machu Picchu, the valleys and mountains that surround it.  Or you can visit the Temple of the Moon or the impressive Inca Bridge.

The rest of the afternoon is to spend at leisure!

Meals: B
Total distance: 4 km (2,49 miles)
Estimated walking time: 2 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (8,829 ft)
Machu Picchu altitude: 2,400 m (7,872 ft)

Inkaterra Machu Picchu enjoys the privacy of 12 acres of lush vegetation and land in Aguas Calientes. The 85 rooms are well-appointed, with local decorative effects accented by contemporary fabrics. Traditional Andean alpaca blankets and terra cotta tile mark the appearance of this Peruvian retreat. A talented kitchen staff and chef are responsible for scrumptious, fusion-style Andean cuisine. Delve into this region by taking hikes, walks, and bird watching. Otherwise, spend some time at the spa and pamper yourself with relaxing treatments and aromas.

Overnight at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Cuscowas the former capital of the Inca Empire (founded AD 1100). The city today is a fascinating mix of Inca and colonial Spanish architecture and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. Almost every central street has remnants of Inca walls, arches and doorways that serve as the foundation for the colonial and modern buildings. Narrow alleys of whitewashed houses with sky-blue and bottle-green shutters open out onto elegant squares with stone-hewn fountains and elegant restaurants and posadas (inns). Colorful murals depicting historical scenes can be seen on countless walls, and indigenous women with braids and embroidered shawls set up makeshift stalls selling woven blankets and handmade crafts and jewelry. The elegant Plaza de Armas, or main square, is lined with arcades and houses with ornately carved wooden balconies and terracotta tiled roofs.

Participate in some of the optional excursions available at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo hotel. Experience contemplative walks to sacred sites, or attempt a challenging Andean ascent. On the hotel grounds, nature trails wind past waterfalls and gardens; trained guides explain the fascinating cloud forest ecosystem. Discover a working tea plantation, and the world’s largest private collection of indigenous orchids, open to the public. What could be more enchanting than the vibrant Waqnaki and the legend of a lovesick Inca princess whose sadness was transformed into colorful teardrop petals?

NATURE WALK Walk along the hotel's trails, and discover the fascinating yet fragile ecosystem of the Machu Picchu cloud forest, and learn about its many indigenous plants and animals.
The Nature Walk offers guests a glimpse of cloud forest flora: ferns, bromeliads and orchids and fauna -an interesting variety of birds; as well as an introduction to the Vilcanota river system, the Observatory, the tea garden and house.
Duration: ¼ day.
Difficulty level: I.
Attractions: Tea / Birds / Medicinal plants / Butterflies / Insects / Photos

BIRDS OF MACHU PICCHU Walk early in the morning to take advantage of the optimum time for cloud-forest bird watching. Begin at a river observatory, with the possibility of sighting the sought-after torrent duck and the white-capped dipper. Then proceed to a productive tanager feeding area, where silver-beaked, blue-necked, fawn-breasted and saffron-crowned tanagers can be found.
Along the hotel's pathways, be on the lookout for the cock-of-the-rock, the golden-headed quetzal and many of the 18 different hummingbirds identified on the grounds, including the booted racket-tail and the green-and-white hummingbirds, which are native to the area.
Duration: ¼ day.
Difficulty level: I.
Attractions: Birds / Photos.

TWILIGHT WALK This early evening walk is designed to connect on a spiritual level with the environment and the historical energy of the Machu Picchu area.
With special attention placed on nature's core elements, the walk pauses at the Rocotal Observatory to appreciate an enchanting waterfall and sacred pre-Inca pictographs.
Duration: ¼ day.
Difficulty level: II.
Attractions: Insects / Photos / Waterfall / pre-Inca Pictographs.

Return to Cusco on the Vistadome train. Departs from Aguas Calientes at 3:25pm* and takes 4 hours to return to Cusco. Snacks are served on board.
*Note train times and schedules may vary based on availability

Our local representative will meet you with a private vehicle and professional driver for a train station transfer.

Situated in the historic area of Cusco, the Libertador Palacio del Inka is highly commended by past guests for its 5 star services and facilities. The 240 rooms and 14 suites are exceptionally well-appointed, with comfortable beds and stimulating views. The breakfast buffet is delicious, with a good spread of options that will satisfy everbody. The hotel has a grand, ancient atmosphere, and is simply impeccable when it comes to staff and an amiable atmosphere. There is plenty of lounging space for those who want to interact with other guests or friends. The Libertador is positioned very conveniently, making it an easy walk to key points in the city for shopping and sightseeing.

Overnight at Libertador Palacio Del Inka.

Our local representative will meet you for an airport transfer, with private vehicle and professional driver.

Direct flight from Cusco to Lima. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Please note: Flights' rates and availability are subject to change until booking.

Your English speaking guide will pick you up at the airport or hotel, with a private vehicle for a half-day tour. The tour of Colonial and Modern Lima will pass by monuments including the GovernmentPalace, City Hall and the Cathedral at Plaza Mayor (closed on Sundays). Visit a 17^th-century San Francisco Convent. Take a brief tour of the modern districts ofSan Isidro and Miraflores with magnificent views of thePacific Ocean. Drop off at the airport or your hotel.

Enjoy dinner at the restaurant "Huaca Pucllana"

In the Fifth century, the Lima valley inhabitants started the construction of the Huaca Pucllana. Two important reasons inspired the group of sacred priests, who were the governing rulers at that time. The first reason was their need to express their religious authority. The second reason was directly linked with the control of the hydrological resources stemmed from the water canal system, on the left bank of the Rimac river. Therefore, Pucllana was an important ceremonial and administrative location. Its magnificence was reflected by the configuration of a monumental architecture. It was built with small adobe bricks wrought on a continuous base of blocks and remodeled during the three centuries of the Huaca existence. Currently the Pucllana Archeological Zone spreads over 15 hectares. Today, fifteen centuries after those men gave life to Pucllana, Huaca Pucllana Restaurant, offers you a sample of the best Peruvian and International cuisine. Welcome to it!

Our local representative will meet you for an airport transfer, with private vehicle and professional driver.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).