Inca Trail & Amazon Rainforest: 11-Day Adventure

Our excursion through the Inca Trail to the Amazon Rainforest starts with your landing at the Jorge Chavez International Airport in the Peruvian capital. In this sense, our team will be waiting for you in the arrivals area to give you a warm reception and handle your private and direct transfer to the Hotel Ferre Miraflores. This initial day is designed for your adaptation and rest after the flight, so the only structured service is this transfer, giving you total freedom to organize your first hours in the country.

Taking advantage of your free time in this metropolis, recognized for its gastronomic and cultural richness, we suggest you explore some of its most fascinating points. Likewise, given the location of your hotel, you can start with a panoramic walk along the Miraflores Boardwalk, enjoying the impressive views of the Pacific Ocean, or visit the busy Kennedy Park.

Additionally, you can visit the neighboring district of Barranco, an excellent option to admire urban murals, republican houses, and cross the iconic "Bridge of Sighs". Finally, we recommend heading to the Historic Center of Lima, where the imposing Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral Basilica, and the enigmatic catacombs of the San Francisco Convent will offer you a first look at Peru's majestic colonial past.

Our trip to thePeruvian jungle starts with your transfer to the Lima airport to board the flight to Puerto Maldonado, the entrance to the Peruvian Amazon. Upon landing, we will board a motorboat to start a fascinating navigation through the waters of the Madre de Dios River. Likewise, during this journey, we will keep our senses alert to spot various species of river birds, such as kingfishers, herons, black skimmers, and hawks, until we arrive at our ecological accommodation: the Monte Amazónico Lodge.

Consequently, after settling into this lodge, we will begin our first exploration guided by local experts. Likewise, we will enter the pristine trails of the Tambopata region, a protected ecosystem that houses breathtaking biodiversity, from hundreds of species of mammals and amphibians to colorful parrots and macaws. Later, after the exploration, we return to the hotel and prepare for the next day.

After enjoying one last sunrise in the tropical jungle and the dense vegetation of our lodge, we will begin our return. Therefore, we will sail back to the city of Puerto Maldonado, where our team will manage your transfer to the local airport so you can board your flight to the historic city of Cusco. Upon arriving at the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, our representative will be waiting for you to take you directly to your hotel.

This fourth day is designed to allow your body to adapt in an optimal way to the Andean altitude, offering you a free day to relax and explore the fascinating Inca capital at your own pace. In this sense, you will have the chance to walk through its picturesque cobblestone streets, visit traditional markets to buy local crafts, and feel the warm atmosphere that surrounds the city before we head into the mountains.

If you wish to use the time to go deeper into local history, we suggest taking the optional guided tour of the city (City Tour Cusco). Likewise, this excursion will allow you to discover the Qorikancha (the Temple of the Sun), the ancient religious epicenter dedicated to the Sun god in the Inca Empire, besides exploring the imposing nearby archaeological complexes of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Consequently, if you prefer a more independent approach, you can see the excellent cultural offer of the historic center by visiting the Inca Museum, the Regional Historical Museum, or the Religious Art Museum.

For the more adventurous, Cusco represents the starting point for a wide range of outdoor activities. Additionally, you can coordinate exciting optional excursions ranging from horseback riding through archaeological sites and mountain bike routes toward Moray and the Salt Mines, to higher adrenaline sports in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Finally, regardless of the activity you choose, we will close this day of adaptation by resting and preparing for the visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Recommended Optional Activities

• Archaeological City Tour: Guided visit to the Qorikancha and the four surrounding archaeological centers (Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay).
• Museum Route: Independent exploration of the Inca Museum, Archaeological Museum, Qoricancha Museum, and Regional Historical Museum.
• Adventure Sports: Rafting in the Urubamba River, mountain biking (Maras-Moray), horseback riding, rock climbing, or bungee jumping (require prior coordination).

The fifth day holds one of the most spectacular tours of our expedition as we enter the agricultural region of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Therefore, we will descend approximately 600 meters compared to the imperial capital, which will allow us to enjoy a notably warmer and more pleasant microclimate.

We will begin our exploration at the Pisac archaeological site, where we offer an optional two-hour hike (5 km) to fully appreciate this ancient construction nestled in the mountain. Likewise, after touring its terraces and temples, we will go down to the town to visit its craft market, the perfect setting to admire local talent and buy unique souvenirs.

Later, we will continue our trip bordering the river until reaching Urubamba, where we will take a break to enjoy a full buffet lunch that highlights the best of Andean gastronomy. Then, we will head toward Ollantaytambo, a picturesque town that houses one of the most extraordinary archaeological complexes in the region, recognized as the greatest example of intact Inca urban planning and engineering. Finally, we will conclude the route by settling into a hotel to spend the night in this "Inca town"; a key logistical decision that leaves us at the ideal starting point to begin the Inca Trail the following morning.

The legendary Inca Trail is an immersive route of 44 kilometers (27 miles) designed to be completed in a four-day expedition, accessible to travelers with adequate physical condition. In this sense, our journey will begin early with the transfer to kilometer 82 of the railway, which marks the official starting point of the hike. Once at the site, you must present your original passport; this is a mandatory requirement since the authorities will check it rigorously and stamp your access to the sanctuary before you can take the first step on the trail.

The route is characterized by being physically demanding due to its constant slopes and stone stairs. Likewise, during the march we will face the challenge of crossing three imposing mountain passes; additionally, the Andean ecosystem requires us to be prepared for highly unpredictable weather; night temperatures in the camps can drop below freezing, while the transition microclimates toward the jungle can surprise us with sudden rains at any moment.

Despite the topographical and climatic demands, you will be supported at all times. Since you will have the unconditional support of our exceptional team, composed of an expert guide and dedicated porters who will guarantee a safe walk with the logistics covered. Finally, thanks to this comprehensive logistical support, you will be able to focus all your energy on admiring and exploring the impressive Inca ruins along the route, accessing exclusively on foot enigmatic and extraordinary sites such as Llactapata, Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna.

After several days of intense hiking immersed in the Andean geography, the final dawn reserves for us the most awaited moment of the expedition: the climb up the last and steep stone staircase until reaching the mythical Inti Punku (Sun Gate). From this threshold, we will be able to contemplate the impressive spectacle of the sunrise, observing how the first rays slowly illuminate the long-awaited wonder of the world: Machu Picchu.

Consequently, upon descending and entering the citadel, we will begin a guided visit of two and a half hours structured to uncover the secrets of the Lost City of the Incas. To guarantee an optimal experience, our expedition logistics prioritize access through "Circuit 2", the classic route that allows exploring the architectural and agricultural sectors in a complete and thorough way. However, in case the capacities are at their limit due to high international demand, the tour can be booked using "Circuit 1" or "Circuit 3", alternatives that offer excellent perspectives of the complex.

Climbs to the mountains of Machu Picchu

For the more intrepid who wish to elevate the adventure, there is an option to climb the nearby mountains to enjoy the panoramic views. These activities have an additional cost and require a prior reservation.

• Huayna Picchu: A ticket for Circuit 3A is required. The route includes a steep climb of 45 to 60 minutes and the same time for the descent.
• Machu Picchu Mountain: Access to Circuit 1A is required. This is a longer hike, of approximately one hour and a half of ascent.

Later, upon finishing our exploration in the heights, we will begin the descent toward the vibrant town of Aguas Calientes. There, you will have free time to have lunch or tour the town at your own pace before boarding the return train toward the Ollantaytambo station. Finally, our service will conclude with the ground transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

Important Logistical Notes

• Annual Maintenance: The Inca Trail remains closed due to government regulations during the entire month of February for its conservation and general maintenance.
• Alternative Route: In case of severe weather or other circumstances beyond our control, the expedition will adapt logistically by performing the impressive four-day alternative hike through the "Lares Valley".

After finishing our demanding expedition to Machu Picchu, this tenth day is dedicated to rest and physical recovery. So, you will have the opportunity to relax in the fascinating Inca capital and explore the different places in the city center at your own pace.

Therefore, to transform this free day into an immersive and different experience, an excellent alternative is to taste the gastronomy of Peru; also, we recommend visiting the traditional "San Pedro Market", not only to buy souvenirs but to interact with local producers, discover exotic ingredients, and taste authentic flavors. Additionally, if you want to take a piece of Andean culture with you, participating in an interactive cooking class or booking a tasting dinner in the renowned restaurants around the "Plaza de Armas" is a good option to end your trip with style.

Recommended Alternatives for the End of the Trip

• Gastronomic Tasting: Exploration of the "San Pedro Market", participation in Peruvian cooking classes, or reservations in high-end restaurants.
• Artisan Route in San Blas: Visit to the family workshops of local master artisans, art galleries, and fine silver shops.
• Wellness Therapies: Andean spa sessions and therapeutic massages focused on relaxation and muscle recovery after the hike.

This last day you will be taken by our staff to the Alejandro Velasco Astete airport, waiting for the tour to be of your liking and thanking your preference.

• Welcome by our staff at your arrival;
• Domestic flights: Lima – Puerto Maldonado - Cusco;
• Accommodation: 3* hotels (5 nights), a Jungle Lodge (2 nights), Camping (3 nights);
• All entrance fees according to the itinerary ( Also Inca Trail Permit );
• Proffesional Tour Guide and a representative in Lima, Amazon and Cusco;
• A professional trekking chef in the Inca Trail
• Porters to carry food, camping and cooking equipment and 5 kg of each passenger's stuff during the Inca Trail
• Camping equipment (For Inca Trail)
• Blanket and Pillow
• A sleeping bag (for up to -5°C) for the Inca Trail
• Meals: 9x breakfast, 6x lunch, 5x dinner and 3x afternoon hot beverages during the Inca Trail (If you are a vegetarian, please advise us in advance. A vegetarian meal option is for NO extra cost!);
• Tables and chairs
• A cooking tent with cooking equipment, dining and toilet tents
• A shuttle bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes Town
• Tourist train (Expedition Class) from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) to Ollantaytambo
• Motorboat transportation in the Amazon Jungle.

• Pre & post tour accommodation
• International flights
• Meals not mentioned
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu ($80);
• Travel insurance
• Tips 
• Other extras not specified.

Solo Travelers: 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 Peru.

Extra Porters: If you wish to carry more than 5 kg of your personal belongings, you have the option to hire an extra porter. The price for this service is U$ 130 per porter.

About the Clothing: 

No matter how many days you are going to walk, the truth is that you will pass from one altitude to another and this implies that the weather will change; for this the most convenient thing will be to wear comfortable clothing in small quantities. For example: 

• Divers, maybe a couple. 
• Trekking shoes, necessary to avoid falling or slipping during the trek. 
• Impervious clothing, during the road there may be drizzles and since this is very common, wet walking will be uncomfortable and can cause some respiratory diseases. 
• Wide-brimmed hats, in these times it is not new that the sun, even if it is not strong, burns. Accompany this hat with a good sunscreen Taking care of your skin and your health is a priority. 
• Towel and swimsuit, during the road there are places of camping in which they put showers. You will also find some rivers, where you can cool off a bit, if the guide allows it. 
• Needless to say, you need the necessary underwear for each day. 
• A small blanket for the nights, because these are really cold. 

About Health: 

As you already know, during the Inca Trail, it passes the 4000 m.a.s.l  and if you come from a country which is almost at sea level, then you should take the following precautions - 

• The first days you must acclimate, to be able to adapt to the height.
• You must eat lightly and avoid heavy meals. 
• The first days in Cusco, should be calm and without physical effort. Follow your rhythm 
• Always drink bottled water, this will help you stay hydrated. If you do not want to buy bottled water, You can buy pills to purify the water. - 
• If you feel that you lack oxygen, rest a while. 
• Also, if you feel any strange ailment, you MUST warn the guide (they are trained for any emergency)
• When you can, drink an infusion of coca leaves. 

About The Baggage: 

The most advisable thing is to take a Back-Pack which you do not take off during the walk. Within it there must be few things, in themselves, the most necessary. Here the recommendations: 

• Blocker and insect repellent. 
• Personal toiletries. 
• Fresh fruits, candies, chocolates (they are good to accumulate energy). - 
• Money (local currency-soles) 
• Walking stick 
• Flashlight and batteries. 
• Sunglasses, lip balm 
• A photografic camera.
• Personal medication

General tips for packing:

• You can only carry about 10 or 15 kilos of luggage on boats and you do not want to carry too much weight on it. 
• You should be able to leave part of your baggage in the nearest city, in the office of your lodge or in the luggage compartment of your hotel or hostel. 
• The best type of bag to carry is a backpack because it is easier to carry than a suitcase. 
• Pack your things in plastic bags that can be closed  this will prevent your things from getting wet. 
• You could also consider using a waterproof case for the backpack. 
• You should bring another smaller backpack to use during the day with only the essentials and store the rest in the main backpack. 
• An insect repellent is essential for any trip to the jungle and some antihistamine cream for bites. 
• About anti-malaria pills, check if they are necessary for your destiny. In the area of ??Puerto Maldonado (in Peru), reportedly malaria is extremely uncommon. 

Clothes in a tropical jungle: 

You will need to wear clothes that you can put on in layers that dry quickly because in tropical climates there is a lot of humidity and unpredictable rain showers. Light colors are better so you do not get too hot in the sun and to help you notice if you have a bug on top! We suggest the following list of clothes: 

• Long sleeve cotton shirts 
• Long pants (up to the feet) of cotton 
• Quick drying socks 
• Rain Jacket
• Comfortable walking boots 
• Comfortable shoes for when you are relaxing 
• A sweater or jacket for cool nights and if there is any cold front during your stay Things to swim in the lakes / rivers

Protection from the sun: 

• Sunscreen 
• Sunglasses 
• Wide-brimmed hat or cap 

Electronics and appliances 

• Camera and related accessories: charger, memory card (s), possibly an additional battery, tripod, etc. 
• Binoculars 
• Travel alarm clock for the early mornings 
• A whistle in case you get lost 

Documentation: 

• (A copy of) your passport for checkpoints 
• Cash in small denominations to pay for drinks, souvenirs, or another expenses
• List of important phone numbers 

Various: 

• Your usual medications and bathroom items 
• Quick dry towel
• Snacks to eat between meals 
• Ear plugs if you are a light sleeper (the rooms in the jungle lodges are often not soundproof) 
• Toilet paper Small bags for throwing toilet paper and some larger ones for dirty clothes 

Few destinations have been able to captivate visitors as fast as Peru. The huge legacy left by the Inca Empire, its fascinating mixture of cultures, the kindness of its people, peaks and overflowing nature, and gastronomy capable of seducing the most demanding palates, are more than enough arguments for this Andean country to occupy a place of privilege in your heart. Love at first sight, without a doubt, is a good way to define what it feels like to discover the called Sacred Valley of the Incas. Discover the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, the cradle of the forbidden love story between Ollantay (Inca warrior of the Pachaqutec emperor) and Ima Sumaq (daughter of the emperor), visit the famous craft market of Pisaq. 

Throughout the year, thousands of travelers from all over the world undertake the route of the Inca Trail from Cusco to access the jungle of Peru and the ancient mysteries that still contain the stones of Machu Picchu. Along the way, there are several archaeological remains of different fortifications in good condition, which visually dominate all the valleys. During the hike, you will cross an impressive altitudinal slope, with climates and ecosystems as varied as the high Andean high plateau and the misty forests, two passes must be overcome at a great height (the largest of them, Warmihuañusca, of 4,200 meters of altitude, also known as "Dead Woman") and ends with the entrance to Machu Picchu through the magical Inti Puncu or "Sun Gate". On the route, you will find a network of carved granite settlements along the way (Wiñay Huayna, Puyupatamarca), immersed in natural settings. As an ideal complement, you also find an exuberant nature, with unique landscapes, hundreds of species of orchids, and multicolored birds. This sensational route goes from Cusco to Machu Picchu in a succession of rivers, gorges, and valleys capable of overwhelming the most experienced traveler. Roads that meander in a continuous up and down where the green color and the peaks hide some of the most incredible places in Peru and the ancient Tahuantinsuyo Empire. Many of them seem like magic because it is difficult to imagine how the architects and engineers of the Inca society could build such wonders at more than 2,000 meters of altitude. Join us on a dazzling journey through the most enchanting places of Cusco.

This tour will take us through Puerto Maldonado which offers us an incredible opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Amazon jungle and learn everything you need to know about this wonderful land and its inhabitants. You will experience and enjoy some of the most fascinating scenarios; like the macaw clay lick where hundreds of parrots and macaws converge every day to eat the clay of the rivers. You can also visit the lakes and natural rivers, where there are dozens of alligators, turtles, giant otters, and piranhas.

Where is the Peruvian Amazon?

Peruvian Amazon Rainforest Animals:

• OTORONGO: One of the most stealthy animals and good hunters, tends to be larger in areas closer to the south, its head is robust and has thick and powerful teeth when crushing. 
• ANACONDA: It is one of the longest animals, it can reach up to 10 meters long and weigh approximately 20 Kg. It is not poisonous, its scientific name is Eunectes since it has the peculiarity of being an excellent swimmer 
• MACAW: Its scientific name is Ara macao, they measure 85 centimeters, unlike other similar species found in other places, their colors are more intense, which are red, blue, green, and yellow. They eat fruit and detoxify by consuming the clay from the clay licks, they live on the treetops. They are paired for life. 
• SQUIRREL MONKEY: They are diurnal animals and live in the tallest trees, they are territorial, they measure from 35 cm to 45 cm, their tail reaches 35 cm to 45 cm long, and they weigh approximately between 750 gr and 1200 gr. They usually walk with approximately 25 to 35 monkeys of the same species. 
• SHUSHUPE: It is the second largest and most poisonous viper in the world (the first is the king cobra), they are stealthy and attack mostly during the night. It is not very dark brown, it has orange tones and black diamond-shaped spots.
• LEONCITO MONKEY: The smallest monkey in the world only measures 15 cm, weighs approximately 100 gr, around its head it has a mane, that's why its name. It is brown with small black spots, feeds on the sap of trees, is territorial, and lives in groups of 10 to 20 monkeys of the same species. 
• COCK OF THE ROCK: In Quechua, it is called Tunqui, it is the national bird of Peru, it measures 32 cm long and it has a strong and notorious sexual dimorphism, the male has its most intense colors Red-Orange of legs and beak orange color and wings and black tail the females are reddish-brown, these colors, because they are cold and opaque, help a lot when they are taking care of their nests, and their crest is smaller. They eat fruits. This bird has legal protection which prohibits hunting and commercialization. 
• QUETZAL: Its scientific name is Pharomacrus, it is a bird that feeds on insects, fruits, and frogs, it is considered a bird of pre-Hispanic royalty, its feathers are elegant and bright, its name means sacred, it is a symbol of freedom. 
• QUIEN QUIEN: Its scientific name is Cyanocorax Incas, it is a raven with the peculiarity that has beautiful colors such as yellow, green, black, and blue. 
• BLUE BUTTERFLY: it is a neotropical butterfly, they love to go out in the sunlight, they usually fly alone, they are very territorial, they feed on the nectar of the fruits, with which many times they have been attracted with that delicacy to be captured.  
• THE TANRILLA: A bird that shows all its beauty and elegance in maximum expression when it feels threatened, with its colors of gray and brown highlighting the beauty of the Amazon rainforest.

Useful information: 

• Weather: The city of Puerto Maldonado has a hot and humid climate. The average annual maximum temperature is 26 ° C (77 ° F) and the minimum is 8 °C (24 °F). The rainy season is from December to March so it is not advisable to make a trip to the Amazon during that season.
• Altitude: Capital Puerto Maldonado (183 m.a.s.l) Minimum: 183 m. -  Maximum: 500 m.

From the city of Cusco, you can do many day trips, but perhaps the most famous of them all ends in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, specifically in the town of Ollantaytambo, 68km from the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Therefore, it is not just a recommendation but almost an obligation to go through these places before visiting what is possibly the start of your trip, Machu Picchu.

When to go to the sacred valley? 

Villages of the Sacred Valley:

• Pisac: 32 kilometers from Cusco is the first town in the Sacred Valley, located on the Intihuatana hill. It is the ideal place to better understand how the system of platforms of the culture of the Incas worked. In the central square, a craft market operates twice a week, showing us from qeros (ceremonial vases) to textiles. In the Archaeological Park of Pisac, you can visit the ruins of fortresses, towers, and an Inca cemetery. 
• Calca: 50 kilometers from Cusco, this town is famous mainly for its medicinal waters (hot springs of Machacancha and cold carbonated waters of Minasmoqo). Nearby is the archaeological complex Huchuy Cusco.  
• Yucay: it is 68 kilometers from Cusco. It was the resting place of the Incas and one of the main grain producers. The palace of the Inka Sayri Tupac still stands there. 
• Urubamba: is on the slopes of Cerro Chicón. It is known as "The pearl of the Vilcanota" because of the wonderful landscape in which it is located. Currently, fruit trees are grown in the area.  
• Ollantaytambo: the legend says that Ollantay founded this town, 97 kilometers from Cusco, and built the fortress that defends the valley, which is still standing and can be visited. The archaeological complex is also made up of a series of constructions and six gigantic monoliths that dominate the complex from above. As it has not been possible to decipher the iconography carved in the stones with which they were built, its purpose is unknown. 
• Other towns: not aligned on the main road are Chinchero, where an old market operates; Moray, a place that conserves incredible concentric platforms; and Maras, famous for the salt mines.

The Inca Trail is a fascinating, extraordinary attraction for any traveler who goes to the city of Cusco. This Inca Route is one of the best visited destinations in the world, likewise, it is considered the most beautiful track that a tourist can make.

History: 

Weather:

Cusco Peru has a temperate climate with temperatures that fluctuate between 14º and 16ºC with warm days and cold nights. The rainy season in Cusco is from November to March. In Machu Picchu the climate is semi-tropical, there are hot and humid days and cold nights, so it is better to be prepared. The season with the highest humidity is from January to April when the roads are closed very often due to landslides or floods. 

Location and Geography: 

Denominations:

The Inca Trail is an ancestral route of Inca architecture that serves as communication between the historic city of Cusco and the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, therefore it is one of the most famous trekking routes in Peru and South America. Every year, approximately 25,000 hikers from all over the world travel their extraordinary 43 kilometers along a stone-paved road built by the Incas, which leads to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu located deep in the high jungle of Cusco. The Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail) is a World Heritage Site after being declared by the Cultural Agency of the United Nations. The name of World Heritage by Unesco means for the six countries the recognition of one of the most important monuments of the Andean world, "Luis Lumbreras Flores", an archaeologist from the Inca Trail Project of the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, told the media. The Inca Trail is an engineering marvel that must be restored and preserved, during the 38th Meeting of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee the important decision was made for both Peru and Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina, countries that promoted the postulation of Qhapaq Ñan to this denomination. To reach this decision, it had to be demonstrated that the Inca road of approximately 60 thousand kilometers has an exceptional universal value. To do this, the committee relied on four criteria for this longed-for denomination.