9-Day Adventure to Lima, Cusco & the Inca Trail

Embark on a transformative journey to Peru, where history, adventure, and culture converge. This retreat immerses you in the richness of Peruvian life, from the vibrant streets of Lima to the ancient pathways of the Inca Trail.

Lima – A City of Flavors and Culture

Start your adventure in Lima, Peru's bustling capital. Discover its colorful neighborhoods, rich colonial architecture, and world-class museums. Savor the culinary excellence Lima is known for, from fresh ceviche at seaside markets to gourmet dining experiences. Explore vibrant plazas, immerse yourself in the city’s history, and connect with the essence of Peru through its food, culture, and people.

Cusco – Gateway to the Sacred Valley

Next, journey to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Discover a stunning blend of Incan and Spanish architecture as you acclimate to the altitude. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit the awe-inspiring Sacsayhuamán fortress, and explore the Sacred Valley’s villages and ruins. The rich history and vibrant culture create an unmatched atmosphere of wonder and discovery.

Inca Trail – The Ultimate Hiking Experience

Begin the legendary 4-day trek along the Inca Trail, one of the world’s most iconic hikes. Expert guides will lead you through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to high mountain passes, unveiling the wonders of the Inca civilization. Marvel at ancient stone terraces, cloud forests, and panoramic mountain views as you immerse yourself in the journey.

Camp under the stars with all logistics handled by porters who carry your gear and set up camp. Enjoy hearty meals prepared by trail chefs and build camaraderie with fellow travelers. On the final day, reach the Sun Gate at sunrise for your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. Walking onto the sacred grounds of this ancient wonder is a moment that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Accommodations & Logistics

Stay in luxurious 4-5-star hotels when not hiking, ensuring comfort throughout the journey. During the Inca Trail, camp under the stars with all necessary gear provided. Porters handle the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trail.

Meals & Tipping

In the cities, enjoy the freedom to explore local restaurants and savor Peru’s diverse cuisine. Meals are provided during the Inca Trail portion, ensuring you’re well-fed and energized. Tipping is not included, so plan to budget $50-$70 for your Inca Trail guide and porters and $10-$15 per day for city guides.

This is more than a vacation—it’s a journey into the heart of Peru, its people, history, and natural wonders. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

Luggage & Porters on the Inca Trail

Any extra luggage you bring can be safely stored at your hotel in Cusco while you embark on the trek. Be sure to label your bags for easy identification. Porters, an essential part of your journey, will handle and set up all equipment, including carrying your duffel bag provided during the pre-trek briefing. Each bag is limited to 7kg (14lbs), which must include your sleeping bag and air mat. Rest assured, the porters are well-supported with uniforms, fair wages, and insurance.

Altitude on the Inca Trail

The high altitudes of Cusco and the Inca Trail may cause altitude sickness, which occurs when your body adjusts to less oxygen in the air. To help acclimatize, we spend two days in Cusco before the trek. This vibrant city offers plenty to explore and enjoy during this period.

Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, fatigue, nausea, or trouble sleeping. These effects are usually mild, but if symptoms worsen, contact our team immediately. Preventative measures include staying hydrated with water or coca tea, avoiding excessive alcohol or caffeine, and taking it slow. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe medications like Acetazolamide to help with acclimatization.

Remember, the Inca Trail is a journey, not a race. Take your time to adjust, enjoy the stunning surroundings, and prioritize your well-being.

First Aid on the Inca Trail

Our trekking guides are extensively trained in first aid and equipped to handle medical issues such as minor injuries or altitude sickness. Guides carry a comprehensive first aid kit and oxygen supply. If you’re unable to continue the trek, a team member will ensure your safe descent and access to medical care. Whenever possible, we’ll help you reconnect with your group at Machu Picchu via train.

Environmental Impact

We’re committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Inca Trail. Biodegradable soap, chemical toilets, and waste removal practices ensure we leave no footprint. Porters are also trained to pick up litter left by others, keeping the trail pristine for future adventurers.

Additional Tips

• Connect with the Crew: Many porters are locals with rich stories and insights. Building rapport can enhance your experience.
• Pack Essentials: Bring extra batteries for your headlamp and camera, as charging options are unavailable. A poncho is invaluable for rainy days.
• Break in Your Gear: Test your boots and gear well before departure to avoid discomfort on the trail.
• Prepare Physically: Engage in cardiovascular exercises and hikes to build endurance. Strong legs and lungs will serve you well on the steep steps of the trail.
• Stay Positive: The trek is as much about mental strength as physical endurance. A positive attitude can carry you further than the latest hiking gear.

Your journey to Machu Picchu is an incredible adventure, blending physical challenge, natural beauty, and rich history. Prepare well, take it slow, and embrace every moment on this unforgettable path.

Weather Along the Inca Trail in July

July falls in the heart of the dry season in Cusco, making it one of the most popular months for hiking the Inca Trail. While the weather is generally clear and ideal for trekking, it remains unpredictable, and occasional rain is still possible.

What to Expect:

• Daytime: July typically brings sunny, mild days with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), perfect for trekking. However, due to varying altitudes and microclimates, temperatures can shift quickly.
• Nighttime: Nights in the Andes are chilly, with temperatures dropping close to freezing (0°C or 32°F) at higher altitudes. Warm clothing is essential for evenings and early mornings.

What to Pack:

1. Rain Gear: Always carry waterproof essentials, including a jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves. Even during the dry season, sudden rain showers can occur.
2. Layered Clothing: The Andes' microclimates mean you'll experience a range of temperatures throughout the day. Dress in layers, starting with moisture-wicking base layers, adding insulating mid-layers, and topping with a waterproof outer layer.
3. Down Jacket: A packable down jacket is a must for staying warm during cold evenings and mornings.
4. Accessories: Include a warm hat, scarf, and thermal gloves to combat the chill, especially during nighttime and at higher altitudes.

Tips for Comfort:

• Adjust to Microclimates: Prepare to experience all four seasons in one day. Layers make it easy to adapt to changing conditions.
• Stay Dry: Wet gear can make hiking uncomfortable and cold. Ensure your rain protection is easily accessible.
• Pack Smart: Opt for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics to avoid carrying heavy, damp clothing.

With proper preparation, July offers stunning trekking conditions, with clear skies and breathtaking views of the Andes and surrounding landscapes. Embrace the variability of the weather, and your journey to Machu Picchu will be unforgettable.

Packing Suggestions for Hiking the Inca Trail in July

Your main suitcase will remain safely stored at your Cusco hotel while you trek. For the trail, you’ll receive a small duffel bag provided by the tour company, with a maximum weight of 7kg (15 lbs), carried by porters. This bag must include your sleeping bag and air mat, leaving about 3.5kg for personal items.

Additionally, you’ll carry a small daypack for daily essentials. Below is a comprehensive packing list to ensure you’re prepared for the trek.

Essentials (For Both Duffel and Daypack):

• Passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)
• Immigration Card (received upon entering Peru)
• Good Daypack (compact and lightweight)
• Water Storage (reservoirs like Camelbaks, or bottles with a capacity of at least 2-3 liters)
• Hiking Boots (lightweight, comfortable, with good traction)

Items for Your Daypack (Carried Daily):

• Water: Clean water will be supplied at meals; bring enough for your first morning.
• Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket, poncho, and shoes.
• Sunhat and Sunscreen (high SPF recommended).
• Fleece or Lightweight Jacket for layering.
• Camera or Smartphone for photos and music.
• Hand Sanitizer and Toilet Paper (include a small plastic bag for waste).
• Extra Money for souvenirs, drinks, and porter tips.
• Earplugs (for sleeping in camp).

Duffel Bag (Up to 7kg, Carried by Porters):

• Clothing:
  
  • 2–3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
  • 2–3 pairs of hiking pants
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 4 pairs of hiking socks
  • 1 fleece for warmth
  • 1 warm down jacket (nights are cold)
  • 1 rain jacket and pants
  • 1 sunhat and 1 wool hat
  • 1 pair of waterproof gloves (ski gloves work well)
  • Comfortable camp shoes
• Equipment:
  
  • Headlamp (with extra batteries)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Plastic bags for organizing and separating clean and dirty items

Toiletries (Compact and Lightweight):

• Sunscreen (high SPF)
• Face moisturizer
• Bug spray
• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Small bottle of soap
• Toilet paper
• Personal medication
• First aid supplies (band-aids, moleskin, pain relievers, etc.)

Additional Tips:

1. Test Your Gear: Ensure your hiking boots, rain gear, and pack are comfortable and broken in before departure.
2. Be Organized: Use ziplock or dry bags to compartmentalize your gear and protect it from moisture.
3. Pack Light: Stick to essentials; the 7kg weight limit includes your sleeping bag and air mat.
4. Prepare for the Elements: Layers are key to handling the Andes’ variable weather, especially the cold evenings.

With this packing list, you’ll be ready for a safe and comfortable trek along the Inca Trail in July!

Payment Policy

All Walker Wellness Retreats require a 25% deposit due at booking, with a $500 minimum.  

For Worldwide Destinations, the next 25% is due 120 days before the trip. The final remaining balance is due 90 days before departure.

For US Destinations, the next 25% is due 60 days before the trip. The final remaining balance is due 30 days before departure.

Trips can be paid in full at any time. If booking after the final payment deadline,  trip payment in full is due at time of booking. Invoices NOT paid in full within 7 days of the above-mentioned deadlines are subject to trip cancellation. No refunds will be issued for trips canceled due to lack of payment.

Cancellation Policy

In the event you need to cancel your retreat, contact your travel insurance provider and file a claim immediately. We can furnish you with the proper document to file a claim and receive compensation. 

Trip cancellations before the retreat's final payment deadline are subject to a refund minus the minimum deposit amount. Please note that guest transportation costs, such as airfare, train tickets, ferry tickets, bus tickets, and tours, purchased as part of the trip package are not refundable.

Trip Cancellations made after the final payment deadline are not eligible for a refund, and guests are encouraged to file a claim with travel insurance immediately.

 In the unlikely event that Walker Wellness Retreats cancels a retreat, we will provide a full refund. Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.

For those booking through third-party platforms, please consult their specific cancellation policies.

The Importance of Travel Insurance for Hiking the Inca Trail

Travel insurance is a vital part of your preparation for hiking the Inca Trail. This iconic trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it also presents unique challenges and risks due to its remote location and high altitude. Having the right insurance ensures peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected events.

Why Travel Insurance Matters

• Emergency Evacuations: The Inca Trail takes you through remote areas with limited access to medical facilities. In the rare case of a serious injury or illness, evacuation insurance is crucial. Helicopter evacuations can cost thousands of dollars, and this coverage ensures you won't face a financial burden in an emergency.
• Medical Coverage: High-altitude trekking can lead to health concerns, such as altitude sickness or injuries. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage will cover treatment costs, ensuring you receive proper care without added expenses.
• Trip Cancellations or Interruptions: Life is unpredictable, and unforeseen circumstances such as illness, weather disruptions, or personal emergencies may prevent you from completing your trip. Insurance can reimburse non-refundable expenses like permits, accommodations, and flights.
• Lost or Damaged Gear: Travel insurance can cover the loss or damage of essential items, such as your luggage or trekking gear, ensuring you're not left stranded without the equipment you need.

Consider Evacuation Insurance

Even if it's not mandatory, evacuation insurance is a smart investment. It goes beyond standard travel insurance, covering high-cost medical and emergency evacuations from remote areas. The peace of mind it offers is invaluable, especially in the rugged Andean terrain where access is limited.

Optional Add-Ons

You can enhance your travel insurance with options like:

• Cancel for Any Reason Coverage: Offers flexibility if you need to cancel your trip for personal reasons, providing a higher level of financial protection.
• Adventure Sports Coverage: Some policies exclude high-risk activities. Ensure your policy covers trekking at high altitudes like the Inca Trail.

Key Tips:

• Review policy details carefully to ensure it meets your needs for high-altitude trekking.
• Carry proof of insurance with you, including emergency contact numbers for your insurer.
• Consider coverage limits and exclusions, such as pre-existing medical conditions.

Investing in the right travel and evacuation insurance protects your health, safety, and financial investment, allowing you to focus on enjoying your incredible journey to Machu Picchu.

Welcome to Peru!

Your adventure begins as you land at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Upon arrival, a professional driver will be waiting to greet you, holding a sign with your name for easy identification. From there, you’ll enjoy a comfortable transfer to your luxurious accommodations in the vibrant capital city.

You’ll stay at either the JW Marriott Lima, known for its stunning ocean views and impeccable service, or the chic Hyatt Centric Lima, located in the heart of the city’s most vibrant district. Both options offer the perfect blend of comfort and elegance to begin your Peruvian journey.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Whether you choose to relax at the hotel, explore Lima’s rich history and culture, or sample its world-renowned cuisine, your Peruvian experience begins here.

Meals Included: None
Hotel: Overnight stay at the JW Marriott or the Hyatt Centric, Lima

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, taking in the morning ambiance before the day's adventures begin.

At 9:00 AM, we’ll pick you up from your accommodation to embark on an immersive culinary experience with an expert Peruvian chef. Your journey into Peru’s vibrant cuisine starts at a local market, where you’ll discover a variety of fresh, unique ingredients and learn about their importance in Peruvian gastronomy.

Next, you’ll head to a professional kitchen to prepare one of Peru’s iconic dishes. Choose from fish, meat, chicken, or a vegetarian option, then enjoy a hands-on cooking class guided by our chef. As the highlight, savor your freshly prepared Peruvian dish during a delightful lunch.

At approximately 1:30 PM, we’ll continue with a fascinating walking tour of Lima’s historic center. Discover the hidden gems of the city, including palaces, castles, and architectural wonders. Visit the Saint Francisco Monastery, known for its stunning architecture and the mysterious underground catacombs. At The Main Square, capture stunning photos of iconic landmarks like the Archbishop’s Palace, City Hall, and the Cathedral of Lima.

After a day of exploration and indulgence, return to your luxurious accommodations for a restful evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Hotel: Overnight stay at JW Marriott Lima or Hyatt Centric Lima

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your driver will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for a short and scenic flight to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you’ll check in to your luxurious accommodations for the next two nights at the 5-star JW Marriott Cusco (or a comparable hotel). Nestled in the heart of the city, your hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and historic charm, perfectly situated for exploring Cusco’s vibrant streets.

We suggest starting your afternoon with a leisurely lunch in the picturesque Plaza de Armas, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering traditional Peruvian cuisine and international options. Afterward, take advantage of free time to explore the city’s lively streets, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply soak in the rich culture and history.

Cusco’s central location means you’re just steps away from artisan markets, quaint cafes, and historic landmarks, ensuring a memorable introduction to this enchanting city.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Hotel: Overnight stay at JW Marriott Cusco or similar

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting out on a 9:00 AM guided city tour of Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire.

Your tour starts at Plaza de Armas, Cusco's iconic Main Square, where history comes alive. Visit the stunning Cusco Cathedral, renowned for its intricate woodwork and colonial paintings rich with Incan iconography. Next, explore the Temple of the Sun (Korikancha), once the most sacred site in Incan culture, over which the Convent of Santo Domingo was built, blending colonial and Incan architectural styles.

The journey continues to four fascinating archeological sites:

• Sacsayhuamán: Marvel at the enormous stone blocks, expertly fitted without mortar, and admire this masterpiece of Incan engineering.
• Qenqo Temple: Discover the temple dedicated to animal worship and its mysterious stone carvings.
• Puca Pucara: Explore this hilltop fortress, once a military outpost and administrative center.
• Tambomachay: Visit the "Inca Baths," an ancient site known for its aqueducts and ceremonial fountains.

Your tour concludes around 1:00 PM, giving you the afternoon free to explore Cusco on your own. Wander the vibrant streets, enjoy local cuisine, or shop for artisan goods in the bustling markets.

At 6:00 PM, your Inca Trail guide will meet you at your hotel for a comprehensive briefing of the upcoming adventure, ensuring you are well-prepared for the journey ahead.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Hotel: Overnight stay at JW Marriott Cusco or similar

Inca Trail Adventure Begins! Early morning departure from the hotel.

Cusco – Piskacucho Km 82 – Llactapata- Ayapata

5:00 AM: Pick up from the hotel and drive to Km 82. You will pass through the first checkpoint of the Inca Trail to begin your hike. Please make sure you have your original passport as you will need it to enter the Inca Trail. The first 2 hours of the walk is relatively easy, as you will go towards your first Inca site, Patallacta . This is an old Inca checkpoint for the approach to Machu Picchu. From there, you will begin  another 2-hour walk to your lunch point. The first part of the trail has quiet a few horses that are used to carry equipment and material. Dont worry, this is only on the 1st day.

After lunch, you will walk for another 2 hours until you reach the first night's camp in Ayapata (3300 meters). In this last section, you will pass through 2 small communities. If you want to buy any energy drinks, snacks or essential items that you have forgotten, you will be able to do so here. 

5:00 PM: You will arrive at the camp.

After you settle in, you can relax and have a hot drink and snack with the team of porters, chef and guide. 

7:30 PM: Dinner will be ready. After dinner, you can have a well-deserved rest.

Hiking distance:  8.7 miles/14 km (6-7 hours) Camp height:  3,300 meters above sea level

Overnight camping on the Inca Trail.

Into the Sacred Mountains: Dead Woman Pass (Warmiwañuska) – Runccuracay Pass – Chaquiccocha

After a hearty breakfast, we will continue on our second day of hiking the Inca Trail. This will be the most challenging day as we will cover Dead Woman Pass, which is over 14,000 feet high. It will also be the longest day. Please be prepared for a steep incline and many steps coming back down on the other side of the mountain.

If you are prone to altitude sickness, please plan on bringing medications to help. You will be at a very high altitude this day. 

At the beginning of the second day of the Inca Trail, the designated porters will have the task of waking you up early with a cup of coca tea, which will help you prepare for the spectacular day ahead. The start of the day will be very early, since the route is longer. You will hike for approximately 4 hours to the highest pass of the trek, Dead Woman Pass (4,215 meters/13,829 feet). Upon reaching the pass, you will have a brief break to enjoy the views, and then leave again to descend to the next valley, the Pacaymayu. It's another hour and a half down the valley side to your lunch spot, where you'll have a chance to refill your water bottles.

After lunch, you began to ascend again to the second pass of the hike. It is 2 hours over the pass where you will stop at a small Inca site called Runcu Raccay and see two huge waterfalls on the opposite side of the valley. After the second pass, it's another hour of downhill hiking to reach the magnificent Inca site called Sayacmarca. You will stop here to rest and take a quick tour.

Later, you will be able to see the sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range. It's just another 20 minutes until you stop for the night at your second campsite Chaquicocha (Lago Seco, 3600 meters). At the end of dinner, if you are not too exhausted, you can do some stargazing to see the amazing constellations in the magnificent sky of the southern hemisphere, away from all the artificial lighting.

Hiking distance:  9.94 miles/16 km (7-8 hours) Camp height:  3600 meters (high)

Overnight camping on the Inca Trail.

The Inca Trail to Winay Wayna: Chaquiccocha – Wiñaywayna

You will start early again, exactly at 6:30 AM. This day will be the most beautiful of the entire Inca Trail. You will walk for 2 hours along gradual inclines and begin to enter the jungle, known as the Cloud Forest. As you walk, you will have the opportunity to see Salkantay Mountain, the second highest snow-capped mountain in the Sacred Valley, and a fantastic panoramic view of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

Towards the end of the Inca floors, you will make your way to the last peak at Phuyupatamarka (3600 meters), from where you will have excellent views of the Urubamba River. Down the valley, you will get your first view of Machu Picchu mountain, but the site itself is still hidden. 

From Phuyupatamarka, it is a 3 hour walk down steep, large steps to your last camp, near Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young). This is the most spectacular Inca site on the trail after Machu Picchu and the most popular campsite due to its proximity to Machu Picchu. During the descent, you will visit 2 Inca ruins, Phuyupatamarka (City in the Clouds) and Intipata (Terraces of the Sun). You will arrive at your campsite around 1:00 PM for lunch.

The rest of the day is yours free to rest and relax.you can relax so you are ready for your last day on the Inca Trail.

4:30 PM: Your guide will give you a brief orientation, and you will visit the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna for an hour and a half. Your guide will explain the importance of the site and combine all the information given during the walk. This way you will be fully prepared for your visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Tonight you have the opportunity to give thanks to your guide, porters and chefs for the great work they have done. This would be the opportunity to provide them with your group tip/ gratuity to show your appreciation.

It is advisable to go to bed at a reasonable time tonight since the day will start very early to be able to arrive at Machu Picchu at dawn.

Hiking Distance:  6.2 miles/10km (5 hours)

Camp Elevation:  2,600 meters (high) above sea level

Overnight camping on the Inca Trai

Gate of the Sun - Arrival at Machu Picchu

This last day of the Inca Trail starts at 3:30 AM. 

4:00 AM: Breakfast and wait at the checkpoint to be one of the first to start trekking when the gates open at 5:30 AM. At this time, you will say goodbye to your team of porters and chefs to head towards Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku). From here you will have a spectacular view of the mountains and Machu Picchu in all its splendor.

7:00 AM: You will arrive Gate of the Sun and then it is just an hour or so walk to reach the Lost City of the Incas. As you walk and get closer to Machu Picchu, the views of the city improve. 

9:00 AM: You will arrive at the final checkpoint and enter Machu Picchu to begin your 1 hour and 30 min private guided tour. After the tour, you will be given bus tickets that will take you to the town to have lunch followed by some free time to explore the town. 

Your guide will hand out train tickets to head back towards Cusco. Please make sure you are on the platform at least 30 minutes ahead of time. The trip takes around 2 hours to Ollantaytambo. You will then have a driver meet you and take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Hiking Distance:   3.8 miles/6km (2hrs30min)

7:00 PM (approx.) - Return to Cusco and check into our hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Hotel: Overnight stay at JW Marriott Cusco or similar

Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Peru. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, take some time to reflect on the incredible memories you’ve made.

Your guide will assist with your 2:30 PM transfer from Cusco to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. From here, you’ll board LATAM Flight LA2024 to Lima, departing at 4:55 PM and arriving at 6:25 PM at Jorge Chavez International Airport.

For your journey home, please plan your international flight to depart after 7:00 PM to ensure a smooth connection.

Thank you for choosing Walker Wellness Retreats for your Peruvian adventure. It has been our pleasure to be a part of your journey. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again for another extraordinary experience!

Meals Included: Breakfast