Andean Odyssey: 10-Day Inca Trail & Lake Titicaca Adventure
Explore Peru’s Wonders: Inca Trail to Lake Titicaca
Embark on the “Andean Odyssey,” a 10-day group tour blending the historic allure of the Inca Trail with the natural splendor of Lake Titicaca. Your journey commences in Cusco, the once-great capital of the Inca Empire, where ancient mysteries and colonial architecture coexist. Traverse the captivating Sacred Valley of the Incas, a prelude to the legendary Inca Trail. This trek is not just a hike but a passage through time, leading to the enigmatic Machu Picchu. Experience the thrill of camping in the Andean highlands, awakening amidst breathtaking views. The adventure continues to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, where the unique Uros Islands and the culturally-rich Taquile Island await. This tour is perfect for those seeking an authentic travel experience in Peru, offering cultural immersion, sustainable travel, and unforgettable memories.
Highlights
- Cusco’s Rich History: Dive into the heart of the Inca Empire in Cusco, where colonial architecture and ancient Inca ruins offer a unique cultural experience.
- Sacred Valley Exploration: Journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, an essential prelude to the Inca Trail, rich in history and breathtaking Andean landscapes.
- Legendary Inca Trail Trek: Experience the iconic Inca Trail, a path that combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, leading to the stunning Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu Wonders: Discover Machu Picchu, an awe-inspiring Inca citadel, offering panoramic views and a deep connection with Peru’s ancient civilization.
- Lake Titicaca Adventure: Sail on Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, and visit the unique floating Uros Islands and culturally-rich Taquile Island.
- Authentic Travel Experience: Embrace an authentic travel experience in Peru, focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism, deeply connecting with local communities and the environment.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Begin your Peruvian adventure with an international arrival in Lima. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Peru’s capital city.
Day 2: Lima’s Colonial Charm
Explore Lima’s rich history on a Colonial Walking Tour, discovering its stunning architecture and bustling streets.
Day 3: Flight to Cusco
Fly to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. Experience the unique blend of Inca and Spanish cultures in this ancient city.
Day 4: Sacred Valley Wonders
Tour the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Marvel at the stunning landscapes and Inca ruins.
Day 5: Inca Trail Begins – Huayllabamba
Embark on the classic Inca Trail, starting at Km 82 and hiking to Huayllabamba. Witness breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.
Day 6: The High Pass – Paqaymayu
Trek from Huayllabamba to Paqaymayu, crossing the trail’s highest point. Enjoy spectacular mountain vistas and challenging terrain.
Day 7: Into the Cloud Forest – Wiñayhuayna
Journey from Paqaymayu to Wiñayhuayna, descending into the mystical Cloud Forest. Explore the lush vegetation and rich biodiversity.
Day 8: Machu Picchu Unveiled
Hike to the Sun Gate and visit the majestic Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Discover the history and secrets of this iconic Inca site.
Day 9: Journey to Lake Titicaca
Travel by bus to Lake Titicaca, enjoying scenic stops along the way. Prepare for a unique high-altitude lake experience.
Day 10: Lake Titicaca Exploration
Explore Lake Titicaca’s Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island. Witness the traditional way of life before flying back to Lima.
Prices for this trip
Hotel Category | Double or Triple room | Single room Additional cost |
---|---|---|
Tourist | US$ 1901 | US$ 210 |
Superior Tourist | US$ 2009 | US$ 237 |
Superior Tourist | US$ 2153 | US$ 319 |
* Minimum 2 passengers to confirm the booking; solo traveler is subject to an additional fee.
* Small group min 2, max 12 — group tour; join other travelers at each destination (If you want a private tour just for you, ask your travel agent).
Includes and excludes
Included
- Accommodation: 6 nights in Lima, Puno, and Cusco Hotel with breakfast and three nights camping
- The itinerary includes all admission costs (Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu).
- English-speaking local guides lead the tours.
- All transfers: airport, train station, bus station transfers, Hotel pickup, and drop-offs.
- Train ticket: Aguas Calientes – Cusco (Expedition Class).
- Meals: According to the itinerary (vegetarian or special diets are available).
- All ground transportation.
- 24-hour support by our local staff.
Not Included
- The price does not cover domestic or international flights. Consult a travel agency if necessary.
- VISA procedures, travel insurance, pre, and post-tour accommodation.
- Additional personal costs (alcoholic beverages, laundry).
- The price does not cover gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff.
- Guidance in another language (Germany, French, others), in case you request them, please ask your travel agent.
- Additional items are not included explicitly in the itinerary description.
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Entrance fee to the Aguas Calientes thermal springs.
- Sleeping bag.
Trip code: LIT10D01-SIC
Day 1 – International Arrival in Lima
- Lima Airport Transfer: Arrive in Lima at any time. Our representative will be waiting at Lima airport with a customized sign with the client’s name.
- Upon arrival in Lima, assistance at the airport and transfer to the lodging.
- No scheduled activities exist, so check into lodging and restore the energy.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Lima.
- Meals included: None.
Day 2 – Lima Colonial Walking Tour
- Hotel breakfast; enjoy a free morning to explore the city alone.
- At 14:00, pick up and transfer to Lima historical center. We will take a fascinating walking tour. We will show our clients the palaces, castles, magnificent Saint Francisco Monastery, and spectacular subterranean Catacombs throughout our city.
- We visit the main square, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Municipal Palace, the train station Palace, the unique old-fashioned “Cordano Bar” colorful mansion palaces, the Jiron del Union Pathway, the Post Office Palace, the Dominicans Tower, and the Historical Rimac Bridge, as well as the lovely surrounded wooden Balconies.
- The historical center is considered a World Heritage protected by UNESCO.
- The tour will end around 18:00.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Lima.
- Meals included: Breakfast.
Day 3 – Flight to Cusco
- Hotel breakfast; at 07:30, picked up from the hotel and escorted to the airport for the trip to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital.
- Upon arrival in Cusco, assistance at the airport and transfer to the lodging.
- The rest of the day is free for relaxation to minimize the adverse effects of the high altitude and explore this wonderful city.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals Included: Breakfast.
Day 4 – Tour to the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero)
- Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 07:30. We embark on a journey back to the Inca’s Sacred Valley, beginning in Pisac, 31 km from Cusco. The old Incan archaeological site is on the summit of a mountain.
- Afterward, go down into the quaint little town and wander through its colorful market, where it can buy intricate, beautifully hand-crafted products.
- Afterward, have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
- We next go to Ollantaytambo, an Inca military, religious, and agricultural hub perched on a mountain. Unlike other little villages, this one has retained its original Incan architecture, with magnificent stone structures and winding alleyways.
- Finally, we will visit Chinchero, a village renowned for preserving ancient Andean spinning and weaving traditions. For this reason, they set up a market in the town square.
- The tour ends around 18:30.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 5 – Transfer to Km 82, Hike to Huayllabamba
- Hotel breakfast, pick up from the hotel at 06:00, and transfer to the head of the Inca Trail at Piscacucho, Km 82 (2,850m/9,350ft), where we meet the porters. Three hours drive to Piscacucho, and our car typically stops for an hour at Ollantaytambo for breakfast.
- We begin our trip on the Inca Trail by crossing the Urubamba River on a bridge. Then we trek down the Urubamba River’s left bank towards the Sacred Valley. We follow a level path to Miskay. Enjoy an airborne panoramic picture of the fantastic Inca City of Llactapata as we continue on our way.
- Continue our hike through the Kusichaca Valley for about five hours until we reach Huayllabamba town (3,000m/9,840ft) and camp for the night. Throughout the drive, we marvel at the magnificent Vilcanota ridge on the other side of the Urubamba River. The Veronica peak towers above us at 5,832m (19,134ft).
- The first day of the Inca Trail is easy and prepares for the days ahead.
- Distance estimate: 12 km (7,47 miles) – Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 6 – From Huayllabamba to Paqaymayu (Crossing the highest point)
- This day is the most challenging and high-altitude day on the Inca Trail, with an 11 km steep rise. Pack the day bag with lots of chocolates or candy to maintain blood sugar levels and prevent altitude sickness.
- After breakfast, we begin our demanding day with a sharp climb to the Warmi wañusca Pass, the Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m/13,776ft). Along this path, the surroundings transform into a mountainous terrain where we may see local alpacas and llamas grazing on the Ichu grass.
- We walk downwards on a meandering trail that skirts around the valley next to our next campground. Additionally, we pass through a region known as the cloud forest, home to various species, including sparrows, hummingbirds, and the Andean bear, the spectacled bear.
- After 6 hours of trekking, we descend into the valley of Paqaymayu (3,500m/11,480ft), where we find our campsite. Enjoy a wonderful meal and rest after an exhausting day.
- Distance estimate: 11 km (6,84 miles) – Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 7 – Paqaymayu to Wiñayhuayna (Descending into the Cloud Forest)
- Following breakfast, we continue down the Inca Trail’s longest and most spectacular route. Numerous ancient monuments, lush cloud forests, and thriving wildlife and flora of the Andes. We go from Paqaymayu to Abra Runkurakay (3,955m/12,975ft), the second pass.
- About halfway up the Inca route, we will come across the ruins of Runkurakay, a semi-circular Inca dwelling with a view of the Paqaymayu valley. After a brief stay, we continue into the Cloud Forest to the Sayacmarca Archaeological Site.
- Continuing the walk, we reach Abra Phuyupatamarca (3700m/12136ft) and descend to Phuyupatamarca, commonly known as “the town in the clouds,” where we may explore this incredible Inca remnant.
- We descend a long stone stairway to Wiñayhuayna (2,700m/8,858ft), an impressive Inca town with a vibrant agricultural complex, urban sector, and religious center near our camp.
- It is the final official camp before Machu Picchu. Get enough sleep to see the magnificent sunrise at Machu Picchu.
- Distance estimate: 16 km (9,94 miles) – Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 8 – Hike Sun Gate, Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary
- At around 04:00, we have breakfast and continue on the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, the last part of the journey, so we arrive at the Sun Gate by 06:00 am.
- After 40 minutes of walking, we arrive at Machu Picchu (2,430m/7,972ft) via the “House of the Guardians.” Machu Picchu (2,430m/7,972ft) was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
- Around 08:30 am, the guided tour begins; the guide expertly directs through the astounding ruins and main streets. Then wander around the town squares and climb the intricately carved stairways made of stone. Machu Picchu is considered the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom.
- The guided tour takes around two hours and 30 minutes.
- From 12:30 pm to 13:30, take the bus to Aguas Calientes.
- From 13:30 to 15:00, take lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- Board the train to return to Cusco later in the day. Arrive at Poroy station and then be picked up and transported to the Cusco hotel.
- Distance estimate: 4 km (2,49 miles) – Estimated walking time: 2 hours
- Train Schedule; Aguas Calientes (15:20) – Cusco (19:05)
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 9 – Bus journey from Cusco to Puno with stops
- Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 06:00. Transfer to the bus station, and take the bus to Puno. Enjoy spectacular countryside views on this full-day travel from Cusco to Puno through the high Altiplano.
- Have numerous brief pauses for panoramic views and a visit to a historical ruin at Pucara, La Raya, Raqchi, and Andahuaylillas.
- Stop in Sicuani town to have lunch. Then we continue our trip to the city of Cusco.
- Upon arrival in Cusco, assistance at the Bus station and transfer to the lodging.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Puno.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 10 – Lake Titicaca (Uros Floating Islands & Taquile) – Flight to Lima
- Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 07:00. and transfer to Puno’s port. Our journey will begin with the Uros Floating Islands. The Uros are the native people who live on these artificial islands made with cattail grown on Lake Titicaca. The houses are built atop, while outside cooking to avoid fires.
- After an hour on the Island of Uros, we will proceed to the Island of Taquile. Here become aware that these locals speak Quechua instead of the predominant Aymara. The Island of Taquile was once a part of the Inca Empire, which still influences the style of the buildings today.
- Upon arrival on the island, we will receive some brief information and a tour until lunchtime. In the afternoon, the boat will take back Puno.
- The clients will be transferred back to the hotel from Puno’s port.
- At 17:00, picked up from the hotel and escorted to the airport for the trip to Lima.
- Flight to Lima and connect at the same airport for an International flight.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.