Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu 7 days

Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu 7 days

Cusco

Cusco, Peru

Day 1
Sacred Valley, Peru
Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley, Peru

Day 2
Sacred Valley, Peru
Sacred Valley of the Incas

Sacred Valley, Peru

Day 2
Sacred Valley, Peru
Sacred Valley, Peru

Sacred Valley, Peru

Day 2
Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Peru

Days 3-4
Cusco, Peru
Cusco

Cusco, Peru

Day 5

Map
1 / 27
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7 Days From

$980

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Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through Peru with the Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu. Begin your adventure in Cusco, exploring its vibrant city center and ancient temples. Discover the Sacred Valley's rich Inca heritage and bustling local markets. Experience the thrill of hiking the Short Inca Trail, arriving at the iconic Machu Picchu through the Sungate. Beat the crowds to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, enjoying its stunning vistas with fewer people. This tour includes airport transfers, six nights in comfortable 3-star hotels, all transportation, entrance tickets, and a professional English-speaking guide. Delight in a memorable dinner at Aguas Calientes' best restaurant, Indio Feliz, and travel back to Cusco on the Vistadome Panoramic Train. By booking with a local operator, you also support social projects in the region. Perfect for couples and hiking enthusiasts, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru's most iconic sites. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Inca Trail Express starts in Cusco exploring the best of the city, travel to Sacred Valley and visit like la local markets, hike the 2 days Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu, and beat the crowds to the amazing Rainbow Mountain

  • Highlights of Inca Trail ExpressBook with an authentic Local Tour Operator from CuscoVisit the best of Cusco city center and templesExplore the Sacred Valley’s Inca Sites and Local marketsHike the Short Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the SungateBeat the crowds to Rainbow Mountain and enjoy with fewer people

  • Support our social projects by booking with us

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrival In Cusco

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: Munay Wasi or similar


Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, you will meet your tour guide, and get transferred to your centrally located hotel. You will have the afternoon free to acclimatize to the altitude.



  • Transfers included

  • Meals not included

  • Hotel: Munay Wasi or similar


Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour – Ollantaytambo

Location: Sacred Valley

Accommodation Name: Tierra Viva or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch


After Breakfast in your hotel, your tour guide will pick you up at 8:00 am and take you on a full-day tour to explore the best of the Sacred Valley. You will visit the Awanacancha alpaca center, Pisaq Market, Pisaq Inca Site, Ollantaytambo, and spend the night in a hotel near the town of Ollantaytambo.



  • Exclusive transportation included

  • Breakfast and Lunch Included

  • Entrance tickets included

  • Hotel: Tierra Viva or similar


Day 3: Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes

Location: Machu Picchu

Accommodation Name: Intipunku or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


You will be collected from your hotel after breakfast and drive to the train station of Ollantaytambo, here, you will take the first trains to Chachabamba (km 104) where the Inca Trail Express begins. After the checkpoint, you will hike for 7 hours to Machu Picchu. on teh way, you will visit Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Sungate. Stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes for the night.



  • All transportation Included

  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included

  • Tickets Machu Picchu and Inca Trail Included

  • Hotel: Intipunku or similar


Day 4: Machu Picchu Tour – Return To Cusco

Location: Machu Picchu

Accommodation Name: Munay Wasi or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Wake up early and explore the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with your tour guide. The guided tour takes around 3 to 4 hours. In the afternoon, take the Vistadome Panoramic train back to Cusco. Arrive around 7:30 pm.



  • All Transportation included

  • Breakfast in the hotel Included, other not included

  • Entrance tickets included

  • Hotel: Munay Wasi or similar


Day 5: Free Day In Cusco

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: Munay Wasi or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast


Early in the morning, start exploring the best of Cusco with your tour guide. You will visit the Cathedral, Koricancha, and Sacsayhuaman on a half-day tour. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a free afternoon in Cusco to shop in the San Pedro market or visit the local artisans in the San Blas neighborhood.



  • All Transportation included

  • Breakfast in the hotel Included, other not included

  • Entrance tickets included

  • Hotel: Munay Wasi or similar


Day 6: Rainbow Mountain Tour

Location: Rainbow Mountain

Accommodation Name: Munay Wasi or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch


The most beautiful day, wake up early to beat the crowds to the amazing Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, this will allow you to enjoy the magical places with fewer people. Rainbow Mountain has become one of the most famous day hikes, every day we have hundreds of visitors. We organize exclusive small group tours to arrive before this beautiful place gets crowded.



  • Comfortable transportation included

  • Entrance tickets included

  • Breakfast and lunch included

  • Hotel: Munay Wasi or similar


Day 7: Transfer Out

Location: Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast in your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the airport or bus terminal depending on your schedule


What's Included

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers in Cusco are included.

  • Accommodation

    Six nights in 3-star hotels based on double occupancy are included.

  • Transportation

    All transportation during the 7 days is included.

  • Entrance Tickets

    Entrance tickets to all places visited are included.

  • Tour Guide

    A professional English-speaking tour guide is included.

  • Bus to Machu Picchu

    Bus up and down to and from Machu Picchu is included.

  • Train Tickets

    Round trip train tickets are included.

  • Vistadome Panoramic Train

    One way Vistadome Panoramic Train on the way back is included.

  • Dinner at Indio Feliz

    Dinner at Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes, the best restaurant in town, is included.

  • Safety Equipment

    First Aid, Satellite Phone, and Oxygen tank are included.

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What's Not Included

  • Meals

    Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Extra Hikes

    Hayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain extra hikes are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are optional and not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is recommended but not included.

Requirements

  • Comfortable clothes
  • Rain gear, Suncream
  • Wáter, snacks
  • Extra Money in cash for souvenirs
  • Original Passport (a copy will not be accepted)
  • Hiking boots (light, comfortable and broken in)
  • A good quality daypack (light, small and comfortable)
  • Water storage for at least 2 liters; either a camel bag or water bottle(s)
  • Personal medication
  • Band-aids, moleskin
  • Camera, extra batteries
  • Extra snacks, power bars, chocolate
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
  • Swimsuit for hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional)

Please Note

  • Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking
  • Please advise any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking
  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
  • Passport name, number, expiry, and the country is required at time of booking for all participants
  • A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Mode of Transport

All transportation is included, featuring airport transfers, exclusive transport for tours, round trip train tickets, and a Vistadome Panoramic Train ride back to Cusco.

Accommodation

Enjoy six nights in comfortable 3-star hotels, including stays at Munay Wasi, Tierra Viva, and Intipunku, offering double occupancy accommodations throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes six nights in 3-star hotels based on double occupancy.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Breakfast is included on most days, and some lunches and dinners are provided, such as dinner at Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • What is the main highlight of the Inca Trail Express tour?

    The main highlight is hiking the Short Inca Trail and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sungate, as well as visiting the Rainbow Mountain with fewer crowds.

  • Is transportation included throughout the tour?

    Yes, all transportation is included during the 7 days, including airport transfers, bus rides, and train tickets.

  • What should I bring for the tour?

    You should bring comfortable clothes, rain gear, suncream, water, snacks, extra money for souvenirs, your original passport, hiking boots, a good quality daypack, water storage for at least 2 liters, personal medication, band-aids, a camera with extra batteries, extra snacks, and a swimsuit for hot springs in Aguas Calientes if desired. ...more ...less

  • What is the itinerary for the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive in Cusco, meet your tour guide, and be transferred to your centrally located hotel. The afternoon is free for you to acclimatize to the altitude.

  • What activities are planned for the free day in Cusco?

    On the free day in Cusco, you can explore the Cathedral, Koricancha, and Sacsayhuaman with your tour guide in the morning. In the afternoon, you have free time to shop in the San Pedro market or visit local artisans in the San Blas neighborhood.

  • When is the best time to travel to Cusco?

    The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.

  • When do you have to arrive in Cusco?

    It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.

  • How to prevent altitude sickness?

    Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.

  • Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?

    Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.

  • How many people are allowed in each group?

    The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.

Reviews of this operator

Racquel Enad (Google Reviewer)  

The Short Inca Trail (2D/1N)...

29-Nov-2024

The Short Inca Trail (2D/1N) tour exceeded my expectations. TreXperience had great organization/coordination and handled all the logistics of the many pieces involved with visiting Machu Picchu. I felt safe knowing that they handled and thought of everything. The hike was amazing. JJ and Pepe took care of us, managing everyone’s different paces and needs, and teaching us about the Incan hike and culture. They are clearly experts in hiking and all things Machu Picchu. On top of that, they are kind, fun, and professional in their work. Unforgettable experience. Thank you to JJ, Pepe, and the team! Highly recommend. ...more ...less

Catalin Radoiu (Google Reviewer)  

The 4-day Inca Trail was...

15-Apr-2024

The 4-day Inca Trail was an incredible journey, filled with breathtaking views and delicious food. Our guides, Pepe and Maribel, were exceptional. They not only led us safely through the trail but also shared their knowledge, making the trek a learning experience. Their care and attention to everyone's needs made the journey even more enjoyable. The entire experience was worth every step, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. ...more ...less

Antoine Gasté (Google Reviewer)  

We did the Lares Trek...

09-May-2024

We did the Lares Trek to Macchu Picchu 4 days with TreXperience and it was an amazing experience. During the hike the emphasize was given on enjoying the time with no time pressure on reaching a given point, which allowed us to enjoy the views. Manolo also took the time to tell us a lot about the history of Peru and of the trek we walked specifically. The food was plentiful and awesome for every meal, thanks again Orlando! The preparation was smooth and simple. Thanks to the TreXperience team! ...more ...less

Simon Jensen (Google Reviewer)  

10/10. Pepe and Johny was...

27-Aug-2024

10/10. Pepe and Johny was super professional. Well planned and fun trip! We did the 2 day Inca trail. The trek is easy, but with some steep sections. The views are amazing!

Avi Lazar (Google Reviewer)  

We came to hike the...

14-Mar-2024

We came to hike the Inca trail and it was an amazing experience. It is a very difficult trip, but well worth it. For our trip we had Carlos as our guide. He is a fantastic guy. Polite and helpful. He has a lot of knowledge of the history and culture and his animated explanations made it more exciting. Our chef Alejandro cooked amazing meals. During the trip, while chatting with Carlos, we mentioned we just got married. On our last night they made us home-made chocolate cake to celebrate. How awesome is that, that 1) they could make a cake while camping and 2) he had the ingredients. We never mentioned our marriage when we booked the trip. The food was great and had a lot of variety. They also accommodate special needs (vegetarian, pescatarian, etc) Finally, the porters were amazing. The head porter, Jesus, runs a tight ship and everything is ready to go. Our tents are ready for us, food is timed to come out when we arrive. The trip was hard, but an amazing experience. A few tips 1) when they suggest to get the hiking poles, GET the hiking poles. Just do it. 2) most of this trip are stone "stairs". Some of these "stairs" can be 30 inches high. For sure they are absolutely and not even remotely close to being uniform. 3) make sure to have 100% waterproof gear (goretex), altitude medicine (before you arrive to Cusco), and layers. ...more ...less

I-am Gonzo (Google Reviewer)  

What can I say, GREAT...

11-Oct-2023

What can I say, GREAT COMPANY! We booked this 4 day hike to Machu Picchu, glad we did. This company was great all the way around. We had all information in advance, picked us up at our hotel the morning off, porters/sherpas carried all the main gear, you just had to carry your daily pack. This was tent camping. Food was absolutely amazing for being carried up the mountains and prepared in a tent. The chef made great food with vegetarian options, as long as he’s made aware before heading out. The porters, man, these were hard working guys and gals. They made the hike look easy, and trust me, it was anything but easy! The hiking guides were great and knowledgeable. They provided stories at each stop and ruins along the way. If you’re looking for something easy, this isn’t it. If you want to challenge yourself, learn some history, view amazing sites that only those hiking will see, and make some friends along the way…this is for you. The views were just incredible! They provide the tents, sleeping matts, sleeping bags, and hiking poles. However, I recommend you bring your own bag. These bags get used by many people and have a funky smell. Bring change and cash on the hike. You will find people in small towns selling drinks, gloves, caps, and many things you probably didn’t think of in advance. The coins are needed for the bathrooms along the route. Most places charged $1 sol to use the facility. They don’t have much change so bring coins for that. PS: Bring extra money to tip the porters/sherpas well. You’ve never seen harder working people in your life! I was amazed. ...more ...less

Jessica Yang (Google Reviewer)  

I can begin to even...

22-Mar-2024

I can begin to even describe what a wonderful and life changing experience the 4 day Inca Trail with Trexperience was. The views were beyond anything I could have imagined, but what really made this experience the best of my life were our tour guides Amadeo and Plinio, along with the entire amazing team of porters, chef, and assistant chef. Amadeo's in depth archaeological knowledge and first0hand experience working on the restoring parts of the Inca Trail gave us all so much insight into the ancient ruins and history of Inka culture. Throughout these 4 days, I met such an amazing group of people and formed lifelong friendships, and the fun lighthearted and special dynamic that Amadeo and Plinio helped create made this possible. I am so grateful to Trexperience and everyone in our group who made this possible, you truly cannot get a better team and guide to lead you through this amazing journey that feels like you're flying through the clouds. ...more ...less

Christoph Kaml (Google Reviewer)  

We did a 3 days...

05-Jan-2025

We did a 3 days hike with our family, 4 adults, very well guided by Filio and taken care of his team. We hiked to Humantay lake, Salkantay pass, and finally ended with a visit to Machu Picchu. The cook Bertram made delicious meals for us and Filio shared a lot of information about the region and the Peruvian culture and history. He put Peru into a different light for us. Everyone should make sure he is well informed about fitness required and all other relevant aspects of such a trip to avoid misunderstandings. I recommend to Filio to keep learning English, much more of your interesting knowledge can be shared. Definitely recommend such a trip for any visitor to Peru ready for an adventure creating memories for a lifetime! ...more ...less

Brendan Kent (Google Reviewer)  

Myself and a mate absolutely...

05-Aug-2023

Myself and a mate absolutely loved our 6-day Salcantay/Inka Trail combo for his 40th birthday! Led by super puma & experienced tour guide Leo and the team assisted us in having us a seamless trip from booking enquiry through to dropping us back at our accomodation. We can’t recommend Trexperience more highly for your adventure tour operator based in Cuzco. Our trip commenced with a hotel pickup by private transport to the start of our trek. From there we were supported by horseman Mario who carried our gear, food and kitchen equipment. Masterchefs Augusto & Esteban creatively entertained our tastebuds for breakfast, lunch & dinner in the comfort of a shared kitchen-dining tent. The 3 course meals were perfectly paired to the temperature and that of our energy requirements ahead. Most importantly cleanliness and hygene was of a high standard & our tummies were in tip top shape. The salsa garnish is a must try while in Peru, although this may result in additional exhaust emissions! Tour guide, Leo was an Inca race champion back in the day with over 1000 Inca trail runs and is a walking encyclopedia on the Inca history, flora and fauna of which you will pass a great variety. Leo’s experience enabled us to make the most of the trip, see more, rest a little at times & drink Momma’s beer by optimising the schedule to suit our interests & the weather when the “super kangaroos” were ahead of schedule. Our first stop to Humantay Lake was serene and a good walm up for the following days. Camp sites were in some amazing places, a highlight was overlooking the snow capped Salcantay mountain and witnesssing a couple of avalanches from a more than safe distance but could still hear and feel the power of the event. This camp site was at an altitude of about 15,000 feet and we woke to a powdering of snow in the morning. The treks in the whole area are rocky and at times steep and my Keen ankle boots looked after my ankles and feet. Walking poles are an option which we would recommend taking up to assist with uphill and downhill step downs. Upon entering the Inca trail horses are forbidden so we were joined by a fantastic porter crew consisting of Cerilo, Santos, Ruben, Fortunato, Marcelino, Porfedio. We had a great time with our chefs and porters and if you include them in your trip it will really make the experience better. So dont be snobby - we shared plenty of laughs, music, food and stories with them sometimes through translation as we didnt speak fluent Espanol. Along the way there are the occasional stall to buy drinks or if things workout you may get to stay in a village and try some locally made Inca beer of which we helped make the night before. Tipping is optional but don’t be a tight arse - the support team work in exceptionally hard conditions, carry up to 25kgs on their backs compared to your 6kgs if that and run a fantastic operation. Tipping was by separate envelope to ensure funds go directly to the chef, porters & to guide. On weight keep your packing to a minimum - spare jocks and socks for each day & you’ll get a number of days out of pants and shirts, a couple of sets thermals/compression gear, warm jacket, rain jacket - follow the packing instructions provided and you’ll be fine. I bought a garmin watch which lasted 2 days GPS tracking our route, heart rate & O2 saturation & charged with a powerbank. There are some opportunities for showers but most are cold and most camps are next to a crystal clear creek to ice bath your legs in and make things easier for crew. Altitude sickness wasnt an issue although we could feel the effects of the thin air. A mate put us onto Diamox tablets(sourced through your doctor) which assisted with this, otherwise just taking it easier and focussing on solid breathing helped get us through without having additional things to deal with. Its an incredible trip which you will have a great time if you do a little homework and preparation. If an 80 year old can do it or a guy with a kevlar knee im sure you can do it too! Thank you for a once in a lifetime experience, Trexperience 😘 ...more ...less

Merel van de Wiel (Google Reviewer)  

We enjoyed the Inca trail...

09-Oct-2024

We enjoyed the Inca trail with TreXperience so much! The guide Gary was just amazing and we had the best trip because of him. He was very knowledgeable and his English is very good. He explained a lot about the Inca sites, nature and Machu Picchu. Also, he made so many pictures for us to remember our trip! He made us all feel comfortable and explained really well what was going to happen along the way. He made our group feel like a family and he was just a lot of fun to be around. If we did another tour with TreXperience we would definitely ask for him to be our guide again :) Also: the food. It was sooo good, we read a lot of positive things about the food but it was even better than expected. The chef Balbino was amazing. We had a lot of delicious Peruvian dishes and also pizza and a cake. We chose this company because they treat their porters well and we could clearly see it: their gear looked very good. They were very kind to us, everything was really well organised and we appreciated the private toilet that was setup every day during lunch and at camp. The camping gear was really comfortable too, we were happy we rented the air matresses and sleeping bags. It definitely made our trip more enjoyable. All in all I would highly recommend doing the Inca trail with TreXperience. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Friday

Feb 22, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025
$980 (USD)

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 23, 2025 - Mar 01, 2025
$980 (USD)

Monday - Sunday

Feb 24, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
$980 (USD)

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 25, 2025 - Mar 03, 2025
$980 (USD)

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 26, 2025 - Mar 04, 2025
$980 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 27, 2025 - Mar 05, 2025
$980 (USD)

Friday - Thursday

Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025
$980 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    TreXperience requires a minimum deposit of 140 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 2 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trexperience charges.

    Up to 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 0 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu 7 days

7 Days Starting and ending in Cusco, Peru

Visiting: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain

Tour operator:

TreXperience

Tour code:

387272

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

10-80

Tour operated in:

English
From: $980 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 19-Feb-2025 but subject to change.