This trek suits individuals with prior hiking experience or those maintaining regular physical activity like walking or jogging. MACHU PICCHU TEAM ensures all private transportation belongs to the agency, operated by drivers with extensive training. Our guides possess deep knowledge in directing groups from various countries, speaking multiple languages.

Throughout the route, a MACHU PICCHU TEAM representative monitors your progress closely. Meals feature ingredients from local sources, often organic, with choices for international dishes available at additional fees based on the selected eating place—contact our reservations team for details.

The path includes sections of Andean geography, reflecting traditional highland practices. Expect encounters with local communities tied to these lands. Our services emphasize quality, setting MACHU PICCHU TEAM apart in delivering reliable experiences.

Participants receive support from start to finish, including equipment handling. The trek combines walking segments with transport options, adapting to group needs.

I recall a past group mentioning how the varied elevations tested their stamina but rewarded them with unique perspectives on Inca engineering.

Trip details

• Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
• Group Size: Up to 8 people
• Max Altitude: 4130 meters above sea level
• Type Service: Group/Private
• Transportation: Van, Private Transportation, Train
• Difficulty: Formidable

Trip Summary

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Playa Rosalinas

• 5 a.m.: The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco using our private transportation.
• Drive 4 hours to Capuliyoc.
• Meet horsemen and load equipment.
• Hike down 2 hours to Chikiska for lunch.
• Continue hike 1 hour to Playa Rosalinas for camp.

Day 2: Playa Rosalinas – Maranpata – Choquequirao

• Depart early morning.
• Ascend 4 hours to Santa Rosa and then to Maranpata.
• Hike 2 hours to Choquequirao archaeological site.

Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc

• After breakfast, explore Choquequirao site.
• Afternoon: Hike up over a ridge.
• Then descend 2 hours to Pinchiunuyoc for camp.

Day 4: Pinchiunuyoc – Rio Blanco – Maizal

• Hike downhill 2 hours to Rio Blanco.
• After lunch, climb 3–4 hours to Maizal.

Day 5: Maizal – Yanama – Totora – Lucmabamba

• Walk uphill 3 hours to Victoria Mines.
• Climb 1 hour to Victoria Pass.
• Descend 2 hours to Yanama.
• Take local transport to Lucmabamba.

Day 6: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes

• Walk 3 hours along the original Inca Trail through cloud forest to Llactapata.
• Hike downhill 2 hours to hydroelectric plant.
• Then walk to Aguas Calientes.

Day 7: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

• Early breakfast.
• Take private transportation to Machu Picchu for sunrise.
• Guided tour 2 hours.
• Return to Aguas Calientes.
• Train at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer to Cusco, arrival around 7:00 p.m.

Included

Not Included

Discounts

• 18–25 years old: $30 USD
• Under 18: $30 USD
• Under 11: $40 USD
• Group of 5 or more: $30 USD

Extras

• Sleeping Bag: $25 USD
• Air Mattress: $25 USD
• Walking Poles: $20 USD
• Personal tent: $30 USD
• Vistadome Upgrade: $67 USD
• Huayna Picchu: $75 USD
• Hotel single supplement: $40 USD

Added Values for Free

• Airport transfer (Cusco)
• Duffel bag & liner bags
• Extra pack horse (7 kg)
• Boiled water
• Oxygen tank
• Emergency horse
• Camping pillow & foam mattress

Weather Conditions

In the Cusco region, expect dry season from May to September with clear skies but cold nights down to 0 degrees Celsius. Rainy season from October to April brings afternoon showers, making paths slippery—pack accordingly. Temperatures range from 20 degrees Celsius daytime to below freezing at high passes. Check forecasts a week before; I once got caught in unexpected rain and wished for better layers.

Local People

People in Andean communities like those near Cachora are often farmers tied to traditional Quechua ways, friendly but reserved. They value respect for land and customs; a simple greeting in Quechua like “allillanchu” helps. Many speak Spanish, some English in tourist areas. From my trips, sharing a meal with locals revealed stories about Inca descendants.

Typical Food

Meals include quinoa soups, potato dishes, and corn-based items from local farms. Trout or guinea pig might appear, prepared fresh. For cheap eats, try street vendors in Cusco for empanadas at 5 soles each. In Aguas Calientes, markets offer fruits like chirimoya. Vegetarians can request adjustments; international food like pasta adds 10-20 USD—our team advises.

Free Places to Visit

In Cusco, walk around Plaza de Armas for colonial architecture at no cost. Near Aguas Calientes, hot springs entry is low but paths around are free for views. Explore local markets without buying. Statistics show 70% of visitors enjoy these spots casually.

Affordable Eating Spots

In Cusco, eateries like Mercado San Pedro serve set lunches for 10 soles, with fresh salads and meats. In smaller towns, family-run places offer similar at lower prices. Avoid tourist traps; ask guides for recommendations. One time, I found a spot in Ollantaytambo with alpaca stew for half the usual price.

Dressing Year-Round

Layer clothing: base with moisture-wicking shirts, mid with fleece, outer waterproof jacket. Pants should be convertible for warmth. Hats and gloves for all seasons due to altitude chill. In summer, lighter fabrics; winter needs thermals. Footwear: ankle-support boots. This setup handles 10-25 degree Celsius swings daily.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

The trek demands 6-8 hours walking daily over uneven ground, with ascents up to 1,000 meters. Fitness level: able to hike 10 kilometers comfortably. Health: Acclimate in Cusco 2 days to avoid altitude issues—70% of trekkers feel effects. No heart conditions; consult doctor. Bring meds for headaches, hydration crucial at 3 liters daily. Effort is steady, not extreme, but builds stamina.

FAQs

• Original passport: Required for entry checks at sites and transport; keep it secure in a waterproof case.
• University card (if student): For potential discounts; verify eligibility beforehand.
• Daypack: A small backpack for daily essentials like water and snacks during hikes.
• 2–3L reusable bottles: To fill with boiled water provided, reducing plastic use in Andean areas.
• Hiking boots: Sturdy footwear with good grip for rocky paths; break them in before the trip.
• Sleeping bag: Rated for -15 degrees Celsius to handle cold nights; synthetic or down material works.
• Headlamp: With extra batteries for early mornings or camp evenings without electricity.
• Toilet paper: Personal supply, as facilities may lack it; biodegradable preferred.
• Hand sanitizer: Alcohol-based for hygiene after hikes or meals in remote spots.
• 2 t-shirts: Quick-drying material to layer under other clothes.
• 2 hiking pants: Durable and breathable for long walks.
• 4 undergarments: Comfortable sets for daily changes.
• 3 hiking socks: Wool or synthetic to prevent blisters.
• Bathing suit: For possible river dips or hot springs if time allows.
• Fleece/thermals: For warmth in cooler elevations.
• Warm clothes: Jacket or sweater for evenings.
• Waterproof gloves: To protect hands in rain or cold.
• Camp shoes: Lightweight slippers for relaxing at camp.
• Quick dry towel: Compact and absorbent for personal use.
• Soap: Biodegradable bar for washing.
• Charger: For devices, though power may be limited.
• Face moisturizer: To combat dry air in highlands.
• Wet wipes: For freshening up without water.
• Toothbrush & toothpaste: Travel-sized for convenience.
• Personal medications: Any prescriptions plus basics like pain relievers.
• First aid kit: With bandages, antiseptics, and altitude sickness pills.
• Water: Initial supply until refills available.
• Sun hat: Wide-brimmed for UV protection.
• Sunscreen: High SPF for strong sun at altitude.
• Insect repellent: DEET-based for bugs in lower areas.
• Wool hat: For cold nights.
• Rain gear: Jacket and pants for sudden showers.
• Snacks: Energy bars or nuts for between meals.
• Rain poncho: Extra layer for heavy rain.
• Gloves: Non-waterproof pair for general use.
• Camera: To capture sites; with protective case.
• Extra money: In soles for small purchases or tips.
• Altitude sickness medication: Like acetazolamide, consult a doctor first.
• Portable charger: For keeping phones powered on multi-day hikes.
• Binoculars: Useful for spotting distant views or wildlife.
• Notebook and pen: For jotting notes on guide explanations.