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Peru

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Program No. 19937RJ
The Incas created the largest empire in the Americas in its time. Hike and learn about their grand achievements as you explore sacred ruins, the Inca Trail and iconic Machu Picchu.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
13 days
Program Begins
Lima
Program Concludes
Cusco
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
27 ( 11B, 9L, 7D )
Activity Level
Let your feet carry you into natural beauty, mystery and even spiritual awareness on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Inca constructed an advanced road and trail system over which agile runners would deliver messages (in the form of knotted cords known as quipu) and even carry fresh fish into the highlands for the ruling class. Led by experts, hike the most famous stretch of this road system, passing through lush cloud forests and alpine tundra and examining Incan ruins before successfully arriving at the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Hike the famed Inca Trail from Piscacucho to Machu Picchu.
  • Experience the “Lost City of the Incas."
  • Learn about the remarkable Incan agriculture system in the Sacred Valley from a local expert.
General Notes
Inca Trail permits are issued in limited quantities and on a first-come, first-served basis. The permits are person-specific and must match the bearer’s passport records. Participants must email or fax a copy of their passport identification page to the Program Coordinator upon enrollment.
Profile Image
Gustavo "Tito" Leon
A native of Cusco, Gustavo "Tito" Leon found himself fascinated with the music of the Andean highlands. This affinity led him to devote his life to the research and preservation of Peru's Andean music. His research has focused on the origins of Andean music, its different forms, influences and instruments. Gustavo is a talented musician and an expert on native Andean woodwind, percussion, and string instruments. His interactive style will get your toes tapping as he performs the various song styles and instruments of the Andes.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Maywa Blanco
Maywa Blanco
A lifelong resident of Cusco, Maywa Blanco is a university professor who teaches courses in genetics, the biodiversity of Andean crops and agricultural research. She attended the National University of Saint Anthony the Abbot in Peru and studied English at the Peruvian-North American Cultural Institute. She received a Fulbright Scholarship to study at Michigan State University, earned a master’s degree, and then returned to Cusco to work helping impoverished communities. In her free time, Maywa enjoys cooking, soccer and spending time with her family.
Profile Image of Eliacin Palomino
Eliacin Palomino
A native of Peru, Eliacin Palomino decided to become a travel professional in Cusco in order to achieve his goal of being a cultural ambassador for his country. Leading programs in the Amazonian Jungle, he developed a deep knowledge and appreciation for the ecology of the Amazon and interconnectivity of humans and their natural surrounding. Eliacin possesses a wealth of information regarding the history and culture of Cusco and Peru in general. He likes to share his country's customs, beliefs, and food with groups.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Challenging
Hiking up to six hours a day over varied terrain. Elevation sickness can affect even healthy, physically fit people. Two and a half days in the Sacred Valley are intended to help participants acclimate before starting the Inca Trail. Participants can return to Cusco after the first day if they feel unwell/unable to complete the Inca Trail (additional cost applies). Elevations up to 13,779 feet.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (20 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
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Call 800-454-5768
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Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.