Inca Trail Expedition 9 Days
The journey
9-Day Inca Trail Expedition to Machu Picchu
Experience Peru through a carefully paced journey combining Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and the legendary Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The program allows valuable time to discover Peru’s history and Andean culture while gradually preparing for the altitude and the demanding trek ahead.
Accompanied by experienced local guides and a dedicated trekking team, follow the original 43 km / 27 mi Classic Inca Trail, passing remarkable archaeological sites, high mountain passes and changing Andean ecosystems. The journey culminates with the unforgettable approach to Machu Picchu through Inti Punku (the Sun Gate).
Designed for travelers who want more than a stand-alone trek, this 9-day expedition combines cultural discovery, acclimatization and a fully supported Inca Trail experience in one complete journey.
Day by day
Inca Trail Expedition 9 Days
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima & Welcome to Peru
Arrival at Lima International Airport. Meet our representative and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 2 – Lima Cultural Experience
Discover Peru’s capital with a guided exploration of Lima and its historic highlights. Learn about the country’s colonial heritage and cultural evolution before preparing for your journey into the Andes.
Day 3 – Lima to Cusco & Introduction to the Andes
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, assistance and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is paced gently, allowing time to adjust gradually to Cusco’s elevation before beginning the Andean portion of the journey.
Day 4 – Sacred Valley & Classic Inca Trail Start – Km 82
Travel through the Sacred Valley toward the traditional starting point of the Classic Inca Trail at Km 82. After meeting the trekking team and completing trail formalities, begin the hike along the Urubamba Valley through Andean landscapes and archaeological surroundings. Continue toward the first designated campsite for your overnight on the trail.
Day 5 – Dead Woman’s Pass – The Highest Point
Today is the most physically demanding stage of the Classic Inca Trail. Ascend steadily toward Warmiwañusca, known as Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the route at approximately 4,215 m / 13,829 ft. After reaching the pass, descend toward the designated campsite for rest and recovery.
Day 6 – Archaeological Sites & Andean Cloud Forest
Continue through one of the most fascinating sections of the trail, passing important Inca archaeological sites including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca. Experience dramatic changes in vegetation and scenery as the route enters the Andean cloud forest before reaching the designated campsite.
Day 7 – Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate & First View of Machu Picchu
Continue toward Wiñay Wayna and the final section of the Classic Inca Trail. Approach Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for the memorable first view of Machu Picchu from the historic trail. Descend toward the Machu Picchu area and continue to Aguas Calientes for the overnight stay.
Day 8 – Machu Picchu Guided Experience & Return to Cusco
Return to Machu Picchu for a guided exploration of the Inca citadel according to the entrance circuit and schedule confirmed with your reservation. After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board the train for the journey back toward Cusco, followed by the corresponding transfer to your hotel.
Day 9 – Departure from Cusco
At the appropriate time, private transfer from your hotel to Cusco Airport for your onward flight. Assistance is provided for your departure, marking the end of your TrueAndes journey.
What's included
Included
- Inca Trail Permits & Entrance Fees: Classic Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket according to the confirmed circuit and availability at the time of booking. * Professional Guides: Experienced English-speaking local guides, including a specialized Inca Trail trekking guide. * Accommodation: 5 hotel nights and 3 nights camping on the Classic Inca Trail, according to the confirmed itinerary. * Camping Equipment: Quality trekking tents, sleeping mats, dining and kitchen equipment, and designated toilet facilities during the trek. * Personal Porter: Porter service carrying up to 7 kg / 15 lb of personal gear per traveler during the Inca Trail. * Trekking Team: Professional cook and authorized porter team throughout the Classic Inca Trail. * Meals: Chef-prepared meals during the trek and breakfasts at the hotels, as specified in the itinerary. * Drinking Water: Boiled and treated drinking water provided during the trekking portion of the journey. * Transportation: Private and/or scheduled ground transfers required by the itinerary, tourist bus transportation and return train service from the Machu Picchu area. * Airport Transfers: Scheduled arrival and departure transfers associated with the land itinerary. * Pre-Trek Briefing: Personal briefing before the Inca Trail with final operational information and preparation recommendations. * First-Aid & Safety Equipment: First-aid kit and emergency oxygen carried by the trekking team during the Inca Trail.
Not included
- * International and domestic flights, unless specifically stated as included in your confirmed booking. * Meals and beverages not specifically mentioned in the itinerary. * Travel and medical insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage. * Personal expenses and purchases. * Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, cooks, drivers and support staff. * Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance permits unless specifically confirmed in advance. * Sleeping bag and trekking poles unless specifically stated as included in your confirmed booking. * Additional hotel nights, services or activities requested outside the confirmed itinerary.
What travellers say
Stories from the trail
Experiences shared by our travellers on Tripadvisor.
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Questions before you go
Clear answers for planning this tour.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We recommend booking the Classic Inca Trail as early as possible, particularly for travel during the most requested months. Permits are limited, issued for specific travelers and dates, and availability cannot be guaranteed until the reservation and permit are confirmed.
What if permits are sold out?
If Classic Inca Trail permits are unavailable for your preferred date, our travel specialists can discuss alternative dates or recommend carefully selected routes such as the Salkantay or Lares Trek. We will never substitute the Classic Inca Trail without discussing the available options with you first.
Do I carry my own gear?
You carry only a small daypack with the personal items you need while hiking. Your personal porter carries up to 7 kg / 15 lb of your designated gear, while our trekking team transports the camping, cooking and operational equipment. Weight limits and packing instructions are explained during your pre-trek briefing.
Is the Inca Trail open all year?
The Classic Inca Trail is normally open from March through January and closes in February for annual maintenance. Access is also subject to official regulations and conditions.
What are the toilets like on the trail?
In addition to the facilities available at designated locations along the route, TrueAndes provides a private portable toilet setup for our trekking group at camp whenever operationally permitted. Our team installs and maintains it as part of the camp service, providing greater privacy and comfort while respecting Inca Trail regulations and responsible waste-management practices.
Can I shower during the trek?
Shower facilities on the Inca Trail are limited and vary by campsite. We recommend bringing body wipes and personal hygiene items for the trekking days.