Inca Trail Expedition

On day 2 of your Amazon to Inca Trail tour, you'll be transferred from your hotel to the Lima airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado, located deep in the Peruvian Amazon. Upon arrival, we'll head to the Tambopata River Port, where you'll begin a one-hour motorized boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to your jungle lodge, nestled in the heart of the rainforest.

You'll be welcomed with a refreshing local fruit juice, followed by check-in and time to settle into your room.

After lunch we visit Monkey Island, located just across the river from the lodge. This small island is home to several species of monkeys, including capuchin and squirrel monkeys. After observing these playful creatures in their natural habitat, we return to the lodge.

In the evening, we'll go on a night excursion in search of white caimans, which are common along the riverbanks. Using flashlights, we may also spot capybaras, the world's largest rodents, which can weigh up to 60 kilograms. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

After a hearty breakfast, we begin a 2-mile hike through the lush rainforest of the Tambopata National Reserve to reach Lake Sandoval, a tranquil oxbow lake known for its biodiversity and home to piranhas. Here we will take a paddle boat ride and observe a variety of wildlife including exotic birds and monkeys such as hoatzin (shansho), cormorants, jacanas, egrets, vultures, and several species of monkeys such as monkeys, pichicos, and sloths.

If we are lucky, we may see the endangered giant river otter, which can grow to almost two meters in length, and large black caimans, which can grow to over 4 meters in length. We return to the lodge for a traditional lunch.

In the afternoon, we explore the Canopy Walkway, which hangs over 30 meters above the ground and offers a panoramic view of the Amazon and the Madre de Dios River. From this height we'll see vibrant birds such as toucans, macaws, tanagers and orioles. It's an unforgettable view of the rainforest from above.

After dinner, we take a guided night walk to discover a new side of the Amazon and observe nocturnal animals including insects, amphibians, reptiles, and other fascinating creatures.

We start early with a visit to the Parrot Clay Lick, a natural wall of mineral-rich clay along the riverbank where several species of parrots gather to feed - an essential part of their diet. It's a colorful and energetic display of Amazonian wildlife.

After breakfast, we return by boat to Puerto Maldonado, we transfer you back to the Puerto Maldonado airport for your flight to the navel of the world, Cusco!!! Upon arrival to Cusco, we will meet and welcome you again to the great imperial city of Cusco to then transfer you to the Hotel. The rest of the day is free to acclimatize to its high altitude and discover the city at your convenience.

Cusco was the capital and heart of the Incan Empire (Tawantinsuyo = the Country of the Four Cardinal Points) that served as a center to Inca's expansion into new territories. It is also the archaeological asset of the Americas. The oldest running inhabited city on the continent. Enigmatic city of Cusco is infused with a feeling of mystery and history. You can see a Spanish style in the city today with its charming pink tiled roof, arched squares and steep bending alleyways. The city stands on huge Inca foundation stones, as you walk around town you can't miss the Inca Empire connection, from the stone walls that line the streets to the museums filled with antiques and relics of  long gone communities.

What can I do on this day?

• It is recommended to take a half day city tour in Cusco

On this day, you will visit the Sacred Valley inca ruins. The Sacred Valley was the principal supplier of food of the Inca empire and today you can appreciate various Inca remnants. The valley has been formed by the Urubamba River also known as the Vilcanota River and it goes through Pisac and Ollantaytambo up to the ancient natural sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that keeps supplying the Cusco City with lots of its production. We are taken to the impressive Inca site of Pisac, an archaeological complex situated on the hillside high above the town, with amazing views of frost-topped mountains. This place has fascinating agricultural terracing carved into the mountainside. Uphill are well-kept temples, including a Solar Clock or Intiwatana which are magnificent designs.

Carrying on our tour of Pisac, we will go to its traditional market. An excellent location for buying some keepsakes! We have enough free time here to see and buy some crafts or try some classic Andean foods.Then we will stop in Urubamba, considered the capital of the valley, to have a buffet lunch offering Andean cuisine (not included in the tour). Afterwards we will continue to Ollantaytambo, a little town brimming with native atmosphere and occupied since Inca times, we stop at the principle temple that was used as an Incan fortress during the Incas resistance. Here you will enjoy beautiful views and you can take some awesome photos.

We will be taken to the hotel where we can have some downtime for the rest of the day in this small town before we hike to Machu Picchu the next morning. Overnight in Ollantaytambo.

This is a special day on the Amazon to Inca Trail tour as we begin the challenge of the 4 day Inca Trail hike. It is physically demanding but well worth it!

The Inca Trail was once part of an extensive network of roads that connected Cusco to its colonies and other regions. This incredible route takes you from high mountain passes to lush cloud forests, through different ecological zones rich in flora, wildlife and impressive archaeological sites - many of which are only accessible via this trail.

Our cook and porters will accompany us and carry most of the equipment, so you'll only need a small backpack. The trek is manageable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.

The trail is 44 kilometers (27 miles) and includes two high passes. Nighttime temperatures can drop below zero, so it's important to be prepared. Occasional rain is also possible, even during the dry season.

Inca trail day per day:

• Day 06: From the trailhead at km82 the route follows the left bank of the Urubamba River. We visit the Inca archaeological sites of Willca Raccay and the ruins of Llacatapata to then continue up the Cusichaha River Canyon which offers magnificent views of the Oriental mountain range, including the beauteous Veronica Mountain (5850m). Lunch in Chamana and continue along the Cusichaca River until reaching the village of Huayllabamba. From there we ascend through high Andean land coverd with trees and bushes named to a large area of flat land without trees named Llulluchapampa, the location of our first campsite.
• Day 07: On this day we will cross the highest pass at Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman's Pass at 4050m - 13,280ft) before descending to Pacamayo where we will have a lunch break. Then we will go down hill, along a paved Incan road to the ruins of Runkuracay and Sayacmarca. We then you get over the second pass - Abra Runkuracay and walk down the 'Royal Inca Highway' down to Sayacmarca, finally reaching our campsite at Chaquicocha.
• Day 08: Today we come into the cloud forest and descend to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca by way of a stone stairway. This is one of the best preserved and completed sites. It is on top of a hill and its name in Quechua means "Town above the clouds". After a guided tour we will have lunch there. From there the route goes down a dizzying slant along Inca stone steps for about 3 hours to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, a charming Inca site positioned in forest. We have a guided tour, after dinner we set up camp at Wiñay Wayna.
• Day 09: We will hike the ancient steps to Intipunku, the Sun Gate, a further 2 hours from where we get our first sight of Machu Picchu. Accompanied by our guide we will go to the temples, houses, agricultural terraces and palaces and then have some time to have a look by ourselves. After your visit you descend to the town of Aguas Calientes where you can eat and unwind before taking your train back to Cusco in the evening.

Today you have time to explore at your leisure, maybe visiting some of the sites on foot or by bus. For the archaeological fans , the Inca sites of Q'enqo.  For the more adventurous there are optional activities such as white water rafting on the Urubamba River(grade 2-3) or mountain biking into the Urubamba Sacred Valley of the Incas or Maras-Moray-Salineras and perhaps visiting some Incan sites along the way. You don't need to have experience to do these activities, instructions are given and all safety equipment provided.

You can also visit the four encircling Inca ruins along the way: Q'enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay and the dramatic fortress of Sacsayhuaman, constructed startegically on a hill overlooking Cusco, distinguished for its huge carved stones, joined with amazing precision to form the outer walls, some of which are over 9m/30ft tall and weigh over 350 tons. You can also do horseback riding at these sites

See you !! Thank you for choosing Tierras Vivas as your tour operator. On this day we will transfer to Cusco airport after a delicious breakfast. End of our tour service or alternatively, a good time to extend your trip!

Please note: a return flight to Lima can be arranged upon request!

• Welcome by our representative upon arrival
• Domestic flights: Lima – Puerto Maldonado – Cusco
• All airport arrival and departure transfers (except the last one in Lima)
• Accommodation: 3-star hotels (5 nights), a jungle lodge (2 nights), camping (3 nights)
• All entrance fees according to the itinerary, including the Inca Trail permit
• Tour guides during all tours
• A professional trekking cook
• Super porters to carry food, camping and cooking equipment, and up to 7 kg of each passenger's belongings during the hike
• Meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners, and 3 afternoon hot beverages during the Inca Trail
  (If you are vegetarian, please inform us in advance. Vegetarian meals are provided at no extra cost.)
• Inca Trail camping equipment: personal double tents
• Inflatable mattress (Therm-a-Rest) and cover
• A pillow and cover
• Sleeping bag (rated for up to -5°C) and sleeping bag liner
• Duffel bag and plastic cover to protect your clothing during the wet season
• A pair of hiking poles
• Plastic rain poncho
• Tables and chairs, cooking tent with equipment, dining and toilet tents
• Tourist land transportation according to the itinerary
• Shuttle bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Tourist train from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) to Ollantaytambo
• Motorboat transportation in the Amazon Jungle
• First aid kit, including emergency oxygen bottle for the Inca Trail

The best experience during your trip awaits!

• Pre & post tour accommodation,
• Last flight Cusco - Lima,
• International flights and airport departure taxes,
• Meals not mentioned,
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($80);
• Travel insurance,
• Tips and baggage portage to local staff (please note: it is a custom to give tips in Peru; however, it is not obligatory),
• Other extras not specified.

Meal budget: Please allow USD 100-150 for meals not included.

Solo Traveler: Please note that if you have booked the "Solo Traveler" option for this tour, you receive your own single room for all overnights and a single tent for the Inca Trail.

Local flights: There are two local flights included in the cost of your tour. It is very important that we have got your passport details at the time of booking in order to process all air tickets! Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to each flight departure!

All Tierras Vivas travel groups are accompanied by its Tierras Vivas tour guide, a representative or our personal staff. The aim of our Tour Guides is to take a hassle out of traditional trips and have the best trip experience as is possible. The Tour Guides provide information on places visited, offer suggestions of what to see and to do, recommend a good place to eat and introduce to his/her colleagues. The Guides have a broad general knowledge of each country visited during a tour, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also work with local Tour Guides in the tours where we think that more specific knowledge could help to add more enjoyment on the visited places.

The follow hote used during the Inca Trail Expedition

Hotels:

Accommodation in Lima:

• Ferrer Hotel - Miraflores Lima
  
• Address: Atahualpa Street 152, Miraflores Lima 18 - Peru
• Tel: (+51) 1-989-064-351 

Accommodation in Cusco:

• Illa San Blas or Prisma Hotel
• Address: Calle Matara N 394, Cusco
• Tel: (+51)  84 224466

Accommodation in Ollantaytambo:

• Posada Julieta Ollantaytambo
• Address: Ferrocarril Avenue, Ollantaytambo, Peru
• Tel: (+51) 84 204032

During the tour, we request our hotels to get ready your rooms for time of your arrival, especially, if you arrive prior to standard check-in time. Nevertheless, this is not always possible. In this case, you just store your luggage in that hotel storage room and you can explore around your new destination in between.

Inca Trail : 3 Camping Nights

During the Inca Trail we will spend three nights full-service camping, meaning that our camp staff will put up our tents to finally dismantle them for the next day. Be secure that our camping staff will do all camp chores for you, so you just need to carry your day pack. There will also be dining and toilet tents and bowls of warm water are provided both morning and evening for washing.

Domestic flights for the Amazon to Inca Trail Tour

Tierras Vivas works with LATAM and Sky Airline, both of which operate flights to the Amazon and Cusco. According to domestic flight regulations, there are restrictions on carry-on baggage. If you wish to bring additional baggage, additional fees may apply.

For the Amazon to Inca Trail tours, one checked bag (up to 23 kg) and one carry-on bag are included.

The flights used for this itinerary are as follows:

From Lima to the Amazon

There are only two daily departures from Lima to the Amazon. Typically, our sales team will book your flight for the morning or early afternoon, depending on availability.

From the Amazon to Cusco

Direct flights from the Amazon to Cusco operate daily, but there are only two departures per day. If you are booking your tour at the last minute, our sales team may need to book a flight with a connection in Lima before continuing on to Cusco.

If you like to do the Amazon and Inca Trail Tour, please first check an availability on this website: Inca Trail Tours -  Availability. Choose year and month when you like to do the tour. Please note: the Inca Trail starts on the sixth day of the Inca Trail Expedition Tour! (For example, if you like to start the tour on the 6th of August, you need to check availability of the day 11th of August!)

If there is still availability of the Inca Trail on your date requested in the time of your booking, the booking of the Inca Trail Expedition Tour will be confirmed firstly by our Reservation Department via e-mail. Then your full personal details wil be required as well as a deposit in order to purchase your Inca Trail permit. (Please note that an Inca Trail booking is valid only for 1 hour!! If it is not paid within this time, it expires!!!)

Inca Trail Closure:

• Each February, the Inca Trail is closed to allow its conservation as well as to give vegetation a chance to recover. This is a suitable month to close it since it is the wettest month of the year too. However, Machu Picchu itself remains open during the month so you can visit it maybe taking the alternative treks as the impousing Salkantay Mountain Trek or for those adventurers, the best option is: Inca Jungle Trail Peru 

A kind of luggage you need to take will depends on what kind of tour you are planning to undertake. But this is not the only thing to take in count, also what part of the country you would like to visit, the season and how long I wish to be in this country. In general, it is advisable to pack as lightly as is possible because remember you will carry your own luggage during most of the tours. We recommend you to keep weight of your luggage under 10 kg (22 lb.).

Most of travelers use a suitcase. However, a big backpack would be more suitable. In any case, please do not forget a small rucksack that you will need for daily travels (to carry your bottled water, camera, snacks, etc.). It is better to avoid a wheeled luggage and use luggage with shoulder straps.

What Kind of Clothing to Pack to Peru

Clothing to take with you, depends on the season in wich you are traveling to Peru and which part of country you plan to visit. If your plan is to visit the coastline of the Northern Peru and surroundings of Lima, you need to pack some light cloths (for example, shorts, skirts, dresses, T-shirts), flip-flops, sandals, a head cover as a protection against the Sun (a hat or a cap), sun protection cream, sunglasses, mosquitos repellent and swimsuit, of course.

But if you plan to visit Peruvian mountains (Andean mountain range), we recommend you to take some trousers suitable for hiking, shorts, T-shirts and trekking shoes for the days; and sweaters, fleeces, hats, scarves and warm jackets for the nights. You also should take a sun protection cream, sun glasses and in some cases, mosquito repellent (depending on a route chosen). It is very convenient to have a light rain-gear available in a daypack (waterproof poncho or jacket and/or waterproof trousers) as weather changes quickly and rains can suddenly occur. 

If you like to see the Amazon rainforest (Manu, Puerto Maldonado, Iquitos, etc.), then the most important item of your luggage must be a mosquito repellent (20 DEET as a minimum recommended)!! Except that, you should take some light clothing with long sleeves and long trousers (to put into your shoes as a kind of protection against insect). You should not forget some waterproof cloths (especially, if you plan to visit the rainforest during a rainy season), comfortable and closed footwear, long socks and a hat.

What to Bring on the Inca Trail Expedition Tour

• Passport Original and copies
• Travel insurance(+ copies for a case of lost),
• Flight tickets,
• Cash in USD or credit cards,
• Our service voucher (sent by us to you),
• Entry visa and a proof of vaccination (if applicable),
• Day pack (to carry your personal items during daily travels),
• Rain gear (a rain-jacket and a waterproof trousers or a rain poncho - this can be purchased in Cusco),
• Resistible footwear, waterproof trekking shoes are recommended,
• Sandals (for a higher comfort while at a campsite),
• Warm clothes such as a jacket, a fleece (thermal clothing is also recommended for cold nights during camping),
• Hat or a cap (to protect you against the Sun, rain as well as cold),
• Sun cream or sun block,
• After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body,
• Insect repellent– recommended minimum is 20% DEET (please note that no malaria has been reported during this trip!),
• Camera and its charger/batteries (please note that batteries are consumed quickly under cold conditions),
• Flashlight/headlamp + batteries,
• Handkerchiefs and toilet paper,
• Small towel and toiletries,
• Sufficient reserve of underwear,
• Swimsuit (to visit the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes),
• Snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.)
  Please note: we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal service is very complete and well supplied. The recommendation of taken own snack applies only for customers who like a specific snack that might not be in our menu.
• Bottled water for the first morning and a water bottle.
  Important: plastic bottles are not allowed on the Classic Inca Trail! Please bring a metallic (alternatively Nalgene) bottles!
• Optional: walking sticks (please note: rubber covers are required for the Inca Trail!!); you can also rent it from us,
• Please note: we provide with filtered boiled water during entire Inca Trail, but if you like to use water from streams along the trail, you need to take some water-purifying tablets with you.

Need more information? Here some interesting pages for you!!

• Its time to visit Peru!!
• Amazon and Inca Trail FAQs
• Tierras Vivas Booking terms & Conditions
• How to book and pay with us?
• Before to book. Read the Inca Trail Regulations
• Why Tierras Vivas tour operator   
• Responsible Travel with Tierras Vivas tour operator.

Destinations:

Lima | Peruvian Amazon | Cusco | Sacred Valley | Ollantaytambo | Machu Picchu