Inca Trail Discovery

Treks

SUMMARY

7 Days

Peru

Inca Trail Discovery: A Unique Trek for the Adventurous Traveller

The Inca Trail Discovery is a slight variation on the Classic Inca Trail. And it’s a fantastic alternative for families and those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Although the trek follows the same route, you’ll hike slightly shorter distances each day. This tour is perfect for travellers who want to connect with Peru’s rich history while avoiding the crowds.

While the Inca Trail Discovery follows the same path as the classic Inca Trail, it spans five days instead of four. This slightly extended itinerary allows you to enjoy shorter daily hikes, averaging six to seven hours, giving you ample time to take in the incredible landscapes and visit Inca sites without feeling rushed. The program also offers a more intimate experience, as you’ll camp in secluded spots away from the busy traditional campsites.

A Journey at Your Own Pace

This is more than just a hike; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Andes. With three nights spent camping under the stars and one night in Aguas Calientes, the journey allows you to relax, explore, and enjoy the natural wonders around you. On the fourth afternoon, you’ll arrive at Intipunku (Sun Gate), just as the crowds are thinning, allowing you to take in the awe-inspiring sight of Machu Picchu in peace.

After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, you’ll return to Machu Picchu the following morning for a guided tour of the citadel. For those craving an extra challenge, the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is available, offering stunning panoramic views.

Explore Lesser-Known Treks

For those looking to avoid the crowds and explore Peru’s more hidden gems, there are several fantastic alternatives to the Inca Trail. Choquequirao and Salkantay treks are incredible options that are less frequented by tourists but offer equally breathtaking scenery. If camping isn’t your style, consider the Lares Trail, a lodge-to-lodge trek that provides comfort and stunning views.

Customised Experiences for the Adventurer Traveller

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely journey through the Andes or a challenging off-the-beaten-track adventure, our experts can tailor the perfect experience for you. Get in touch now with one of our specialists today to find out which trek suits your style and interests!

HIGHLIGHTS

Trek One of the World’s Most Iconic Hikes at Your Own Pace: Experience the legendary Inca Trail at a relaxed pace, with shorter daily hikes that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Andes.
Comfortable Camping with Premium Equipment: Enjoy top-tier camping with Thermarest mattresses and quality sleeping bags for a restful night under the stars, ensuring your comfort throughout the journey.
Discover the Hidden Wonders of Phuyupatamarca: Explore the awe-inspiring Inca stone towers, fountains, and stairways at Phuyupatamarca, perched high above the valley and offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
Arrive at Machu Picchu via Intipunku (Sun Gate): Cross the ancient stone threshold of Intipunku to behold the majestic sight of Machu Picchu, hidden in the folds of the mountains and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Witness the Dawn at Machu Picchu: Return to Machu Picchu at dawn for a magical experience – watch as the mist lifts to reveal the ancient citadel in all its glory, offering a moment of serenity before the crowds arrive.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Cuzco

Arrive in Cuzco Airport and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and acclimatise to the altitude. Your guide will meet you at your hotel this evening for a pre-trek briefing.

Day 2 Cuzco/Inca Trail

Depart through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the trailhead; trek to your camp near the terraces of Llaqtapata. (3-4hrs, 6km)

Day 3 Inca Trail

Continue up the Cusichaca Valley walking into the Andean community of Huayllabamba. The trail ascends steeply to a large Pampa below the first pass. (8hrs, 12km).

Day 4 Inca Trail

A steady walk up to the Warmiwañusca pass at 4,200m affords a magnificent view of our ascent. You will descend to Pacaymayo then trek up to the ruins of Runkuracay. From here, walk down to the site at Sayacmarca, passing a dry lake – a beautiful location overlooking the Aobamba Valley. Continuing along the trail, arrive at Phuyupatamarca (the village on the edge of the clouds). (8hrs, 15km.)

Day 5 Inca Trail/Machu Picchu

Explore the wondrous maze of Inca stone towers, fountains and stairways spilling down the mountainside at Phuyupatamarca then begin a long descent through ever-changing layers of cloud forest. An Inca stairway partly cut from living granite leads us finally to the site of Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), the largest and most exquisite of the Inca Trail sites.

In the afternoon we follow the last stretch of trail across a steep mountainside through a lush, humid cloud-forest of giant ferns and broad-leaf vegetation. Suddenly we cross the stone threshold of Intipunku (Sun Gate) and encounter an unforgettable sweep of natural beauty and human artistry –a backdrop of twisting gorge and forested peaks framing the magical city of Machu Picchu. (5 – 6 hours, 11km)

Day 6 Machu Picchu/Cuzco

Early this morning, board the mini bus for a second trip to the ruins with your entry and a tour included. As dawn breaks, watch the mist rise over the top of the mountain citadel, a truly unforgettable experience. Explore the ruins at your own pace before returning to Cuzco by train this afternoon.