From: £1,352
From: $1,800
We leave Cusco this morning and drive, by minibus, to Chincheros, a small village just an hour from Cusco.
The local people have a strong tradition of weaving so we will spend some time watching a demonstration in the use of natural dyes and weaving techniques, and then take a tour through the amazing Inca site just on the edge of the town.
We then set off driving across the vast fertile plain known as the Pampa de Anta, where we can see field upon field of crops such as quinoa and maize.
We have our lunch at the interesting site of Quillarumiyoc, meaning Temple of the Moon, where we also have time to wander through the Inca terraces observing the amazing stone carvings.
We trek from there to Zurite, a sleepy Andean village, where we spend the night in an old hacienda, from the Colonial period. Our chef will serve dinner in the hacienda’s dining room.
Distance: 7.4km/4.3 miles
Walking time: 4 hours approx.
After a good substantial breakfast we leave Zurite and start our trek, walking towards our first camp at Amaruwatana.
We head steeply uphill passing Qenteqentiyoc (the Hummingbird Temple), another amazing Inca site.
We climb steadily though grassland and woods to the top of our first pass at 4,450m/14,600ft. The views are spectacular of both the Vilcabamba and Vilcanota mountains.
After a good breather we walk down towards our first camp in the Sambor valley, this is where we spend the night.
Distance: 12km/7.5 miles
Walking time: 7-8 hours approx.
After a hearty breakfast we set off, again on a steady climb and trek for two hours to get to our second pass at 4,700m/15,420ft.
The colours in the mountains around are beautiful and the geology dramatic. Some of the Andean birds we might see include Andean ibis, herons, torrent ducks, caracaras, black chested buzzard eagles and foxes.
The Andean condor might even soar past.
After the pass it’s a relief to walk through the highland valley of Kenqo Mayu, or Zigzag River. Glacier melt-water carves out the valley. We have a picnic lunch by the river then continue downhill following an ancient trail, to our campsite in a small Andean community called Ancascocha.
We arrive mid-afternoon and camp on the outskirts of this tiny village next to the old school. If time permits we can head off up the valley to explore.
Distance: 13km/8 miles
Walking time: 6-7 hours
Today is all downhill, so after breakfast and breaking camp we head on down the Silque Canyon, following the stream that gradually gets bigger and more turbulent as it is joined by other water courses flowing in form side valleys.
We are deep in a canyon with tall granite walls on each side. An abundance of orchids and bromeliads fills the valley with magnificent colours.
We continue on the trail, zigzagging downwards crossing the river several times on many little bridges until we will reach the community of Camicancha, where we enjoy magnificent views of mount Veronica, the snow-capped mountain.
We continue to the Chilca community where we finish our trek. Our minibus will then take us to Ollantaytambo, where we have to explore before continuing by train to Aguas Calientes to overnight.
Distance: 14km/8.7 miles
Walking time: 5 hours approx.
Today, after an early breakfast, we take the short bus ride (5.30am) up the hill to the 15th-century Inca site of Machu Picchu.
We have the day to walk around the site, including a guided tour.
We take the train later in the afternoon and arrive back in Cusco late evening.
If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, permits have to be pre/booked and come at an additional cost.
For a short description of the walks, please see below.
A steep one-hour climb (360m above the main Machu Picchu ruins), much of which is up Inca stairs. The climb involves scrambling and requires a good head for heights as there are some drops and a set of steep stairs – with no railing.
The views from above are wonderful and certainly reward those who tackle it. It’s worth visiting the Temple of the Moon on the west side of Huayna Picchu mountain, 400m below the summit. There is some high quality Inca stone work inside a cave, once a sacred place. Climbing Huayna Picchu is popular and permits usually sell out, which means there will be 200 climbers for each time slot given.
Do not attempt this climb if you are concerned about suffering from vertigo.
Just south of the site, and overlooking it, is a 650m climb up a well made Inca pathway (approx 1.5 hrs to top, 1 hr down) to the top of Machu Picchu Mountain.
There are some Inca constructions on the top that were probably for religious ceremonies, given the prominent position of the mountain. The hike takes you through lush forest, keeping a look out for interesting birds, flowers and snakes sunbathing on the path.
The views over the site a great and you can view the iconic Huayna Picchu as the backdrop to Machu Picchu, as well as the mountains beyond. It is attracting more and more people as an alternative to Huayna Picchu but is still a lot quieter.
A very simple and straight forward, yet very enjoyable walk is the walk along the river in Aguas Calientes. Keep your eyes open, as otters and capybara have been spotted here before! Your hotel receptionist can point you in the right direction and once you are the river, you just walk along from there.
And last but not least – don’t forget you can soak your aching muscles at the Aguas Calientes hot springs in town!
Camping with dining tent and toilet tent, plus one night hostel (2*) in Aguas Calientes.
We have classified this as a moderate trek, and you need to be in good physical shape for it.
You hike 4-7 hours a day on 3 consecutive days, over rugged mountain trails at elevation.
There is a high altitude pass to cross at 4,400m/15,420ft before dropping into lower elevations en route to Machu Picchu.
Pre-trip preparation should include challenging cardiovascular exercise (including regular hikes on varied terrain) and a healthy, balanced diet.
Well-worn hiking boots and additional acclimatisation nights in Cusco (3-4) before the trek are both highly recommended.
All guests are encouraged to hike at their own pace, taking breaks whenever needed, to ensure a successful and enjoyable trek for all.
Most people go to bed fairly early after a long day trekking, to recover energy for the morning.
Vegetarians and other dietary requirements are catered for without problems. Please let us know in advance of any requirements you have.
You wake early, usually around 07.00. Breakfast is served in a dining tent, and consists of hot drinks, porridge, toast, jams and bread, and your guide will explain the day’s trekking plans.
Lunch is usually around 13.00 and can feature soups, meats, salads and fish, with vegetarian options and hot drinks too.
The campsites are comfortable and around 17.00 hot drinks, popcorn and other snacks are served to help you recover energy.
Dinner is served around 19.30, and will feature pasta, mashed potatoes, meat, fish or vegetarian options, followed by hot drinks and a pudding.
All guides are certified, bilingual, English-speaking guides who have worked with us for many years.
Cooks, mule drivers and additional staff are all from the local, nearby communities and we have worked with them for a long time.
An exhilarating Inca Trail trek blended cultural discovery, challenge, and triumph on Peru’s legendary mountain path.
A breathtaking Amazon trek filled with wildlife encounters, serene lodges, and unforgettable rainforest experiences.
Take in remote Inca ruins and many stunning mountain views on the way to Machu Picchu on a trail that remains unknown to almost everyone else.
This trek is truly off the beaten track. Get away from other trekkers and to experience the beauty and rich culture of the Andes this is a perfect option.
From: $1237 per person
Duration
4 days
Peru is made up of 3 distinct geographical areas: the coast, the mountains and the jungle.
The costa or coastal region is a narrow ribbon of desert 2,250 km long, crossed by fertile river valleys flowing from the Andes. It takes up 11% of the country and holds more than 40% of the population.
The cold Humboldt current gives rise to a blanket of mist – the garua – which hangs above coastal cities like the capital Lima from May to November.
Heading east, you’re soon climbing above the garua and into the Andes. The sierra, or mountainous region, covers some 25% of Peru’s territory and contains 50% of the population. The sierra inhabitants are mainly Indigenous or Mestizo, and many still speak Quechua or Aymara.
The sierra contains dozens of 6,000-metre snow peaks and volcanoes, including Huascaran (6,768m) the highest mountain in the tropics. The deep valley basins contain most of the towns and arable land; the terracing and canal systems of the Incas and pre-Incas are often still used today.
The eastern Andes are heavily forested up to 3,350m and sweep down into the Amazon Basin.
Peru’s selva or jungle makes up almost two thirds of the country’s area, but holds only about 6% of the population: the only towns with significant populations are Iquitos and Pucallpa.
Peru is the perfect holiday destination for adventure travellers that want an amazing variety of activity, geography and cultural travel experiences.
The breadth of travel experiences in Peru is breathtaking – from trekking in the Andes to Machu Picchu to the tropical jungle of the Amazon, and plenty in between.
The people of Peru make it a special destination too, with its colourful and traditional street life and friendly locals.
Good kit is vital for every trip.
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When planning for the climatic conditions encountered in the High Andes, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system. It’s worth remembering that our clothing keeps us warm by retaining and isolating the heat we ourselves create.
To best maintain body heat, several layers of lightweight, warm and quick-drying clothing are far more efficient than one or two thick layers. Layers should have the following qualities:
First (base) layer: This layer wicks the sweat away from our skin, thus helping keep the body dry and warm. To this end, synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene should be used.
Mid layers: These isloating layers should also be synthetic (e.g. the known polar linings such as polartec or windblock, which are light and insulate twice as well as wool). Very important layers for retaining body heat.
Outer layer / shell: Finally, the vital layer which protects us from climatic adversities. A breathable, wind-proof and waterproof anorak, such as Goretex.
Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.
We provide thermarests on the trek but you have to bring (or RENT, please ask) a sleeping bag (-5ºC).
We also carry an extensive first aid kit & oxygen on all trips, but these are generally for emergencies only.
You can also read about the weather of Peru in our blog.
You can also read about the weather of Peru in our blog.
Peru is located in the southern tropics (latitudes 0º to 18º), but climate varies significantly according to season, altitude and region.
From May to October, Lima is often overcast, but with minimal precipitation. There are sunny spells, and it’s a fresh to pleasant 13-20ºC.
At the same time, inland areas and the north coast mid to high 20’s ºC.
November to April is generally warm and sunny and Lima enjoys warm temperature of 19-25ºC, with the coast averaging 22-30ºC.
Climate depends largely on altitude. As a rule of thumb, below 2,000m climate is mild and above 2,000m warm clothing is required for evenings, nights and early mornings.
The Andean sun is very strong.
Cusco (3,300m): Average max/min temps: 22ºC /2ºC. Average 3 or 4 wet days per month.
Arequipa (2,380m): Average max/min temps: 26ºC /9ºC. Sunny more than 340 days/year with minimal precipitation.
On highland treks: Conditions are generally dry. However, at this time of year, expect a range of conditions within a single day: cold/freezing nights at camps above 4,000m, where pre-dawn temperatures can be -5ºC; warm, spring-like mornings and afternoons; and cold evenings.
Note that mountain weather can be fickle and localised, and that precipitation is not unknown in the dry season. Expect temperatures to swing between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground and with altitude gain and loss. A quick-setting sun means temperatures drop fast.
In the cloud forest, e.g. around Machu Picchu, daytime conditions are generally warm or hot, and evenings cool.
Cusco: Average max/min temps: 23ºC /6ºC. Average 13 wet days per month.
Arequipa: Average max/min temps: 25ºC /14ºC.
On highland treks: Wetter conditions, with cooler days and milder nights than dry season. Jan-Mar usually the wettest months.
Year-round, weather conditions are hot and humid and there is always the risk of rain.
There is a ‘dry season’ in Tambopata and Manu between May and October. The average daytime high temperature is between 25°C and 34°C and the average nighttime low is between 16°C and 22°C. Heavy downpours typically occur every few days.
Around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Manu and Tambopata and 1,400 mm in Iquitos – occurs in the wet season Nov-April.
On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – ‘friajes’ – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9°C. (Friajes usually last between 1 and 3 days).
An exhilarating Inca Trail trek blended cultural discovery, challenge, and triumph on Peru’s legendary mountain path.
A breathtaking Amazon trek filled with wildlife encounters, serene lodges, and unforgettable rainforest experiences.
