A complete network of interconnecting roads linked Cusco to its provinces and other kingdoms and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was part of that system. Today it has become the most famous and popular trek in South America due to the variety of attractions it offers. The trail route lies within the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, which was created by the government in 1981 to protect the natural beauty and the archaeological sites of this extraordinary area. This spectacular trail runs from high mountains down to cloud forest, passing through a number of diverse ecological zones filled with an enormous variety of plants and bird life. The route is also studded with archaeological sites which lead the visitor to the lost city of the Incas; Machu Picchu.

Here's your chance to take the classic and popular Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu with experienced , highly qualified guides! Because the trail was being trashed out every year by independent hikers and companies that were not practicing good ecological procedures, the government has eliminated independent hiking on the trail and has limited the number of authorized companies that can take groups on the trail. The government also increased fees and created other rules to try to improve the quality and preserve the ruins for future trekkers.

We offer you the choice of 4 or 5 day trips in either first or economy class.

" They were attentive, professional and efficient. The Trail guide was excellent. He
obviously loves his country and culture and was a fount of knowledge." David Ensign

"The trip was amazing. Everything was perfect. Our guide was awesome, the food and equipment were amazing, the porters were friendly and helpful. We couldn't have dreamed of better service."
Beth Keller

2002 Price: US$695 for first class, US$650 for economy class. Discounts for 4 or more in your group. Single tent supplement, if requested: US$63

Departure Dates: Every day (preferably Monday), subject to minimum of 2 people)

Price Includes: a bi-lingual trip leader, 2 porters per person, 2-3 person tents, insolite mat per person. A sleeping bag may be rented for US $20 ONLY BY REQUEST. A mess tent, complete table service, chairs and tables, kitchen set, special diet by request, latrine tent are provided. Meals are full board, including wine and other drinks. Other services included are private bus to starting point at Chillca, entrance fees to Inca trail and one day visit to Machu Picchu, bus ride from ruins to train station, train return to Cusco, transfer train station/hotel in Cusco.

For the 5 day economy trip you have less porters, no tables or chairs and basic meals. Everything else is the same as for the first class 5 day trip.

"The services during the Inca Trail were also very nice. We were fed continuously and also appreciated the hot water to clean onself up when waking up. our guide was extremely nice and helful all the time. Her explanations about historical sites were very good." Luis Pedroza

Day 2- Huayllabamba / Pacaymayo - From the village of Huayllabamba the trail climbs steadily through high Andean woodland to a plain called Llulluchapampa just before the first pass, from where there are excellent views of the Huayanay mountain chain. After another two hours walking we reach the pass of Warmiwanuska (4050m/13,280ft), before descending as far as the canyon of the Pacaymayo river where we will make our second camp.

Day 3- Pacaymayo / Winay Wayna - The trail now climbs to the second pass at Runcuracay from where we will be able to see the Vilcabamba and Urubamba mountain ranges. After a short rest we will descend slowly along a paved Inca road to the ruins of Runcuracay and Sayacmarca which have been recently restored. Here we enter the cloud forest and in the afternoon the trail descends via a stone staircase past the ruins of Phuvupatamarca to Winay Wayna, where we will camp for the night.

Day 4- Winay Wayna / Machu Picchu - After about two hours walking we arrive at Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, from where we will get our first glimpse of Machu Picchu. On arriving at the citadel we will tour the temples, houses, agricultural terraces and palaces of this magical place. Return to Cusco by train in the afternoon.

2002 Price: First class = $625 each, Economy class = $575 each. Discounts for 4 or more in your group. Single tent supplement, if requested, is $50.
(Economy class is without tables and chairs and niceties such as wine with meals)

Departure Dates : Mondays are preferred for singles. Groups of 4 or more can pick any day.

Roundtrip air from Lima is $178 per person, subject to availability.

The total weight of all above items are divided among of our camp personnel. Porters will carry 20 kilos (44.10 pounds) - it is the maximum allowed by law. To take more equipment from our side or more personal things from your side means more porters, then the costs are higher and consequently your trip would be more expensive. So we kindly ask to take just the necessary things for your 3 or 4 nights of camping.

After doing a research among of our traveller from 2001 to now, have concluded that you need to take around 7 kilos (15.50 pounds) average. So, please pack the necessary items in one duffle bag (we can provide one in Cusco without charge) and give to your guide, then he will give to the porters. The duffle bag you will get back as you as you arrive to the campsite. (during the hike you won't see the porters so make sure to take in your day pack the necessary things for the day).

If you spend an extra night at Machu Picchu
For people who spend extra night (s) in Machu Picchu and have things to use there (extra clothes, books, etc.) we suggest to send them to the hotel with our help. Please ask for more details when you are in Cusco.

We can also arrange hotels, tours and other treks in the Cuzco area and can also offer trips to Tambopata and Manu. Please see our website for more info.