09 Day Cusco – Classic Inca Trail and Titicaca Lake

Highlights

09 Day Cusco – Classic Inca Trail and Titicaca Lake. This package connects two magical and sacred routes that will familiarize you with the legacy that the Incas have left behind. Enjoy the phenomenal views of the archaeological sites that dominate the Inca Trail, accompanied by spectacular views of the imposing and mythical Andes. Following the Route of the Sun, we will reach the Peruvian highlands to navigate the lake that according to the chronicler Garcilazo de la Vega gave rise to the mysterious Inca culture. You will feel like the magic that permeates each site will leave its essence in you.

Itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

  • Upon your arrival at the airport in Cusco, an Inkayni Peru Tours member will be there to greet you and take you to our partner lodge, located in the charming historic district of San Blas. The lodge is centrally located and only a few minutes walk from the Plaza de Armas, the beautiful and bustling town center. This day will be reserved for resting and acclimatizing to the altitude, approximately 3400 meters (11,000 feet). 
  • Meet your expedition group at 5:00 pm
Lodging: Cusco Tandapata Boutique Hotel *** or similar (Cusco).

DAY 2: EMBARK ON A TOUR TO CHINCHERO, MARAS & MORAY

  • This day begins our adventure through the incredible landscapes of Cusco. We will start with your pick-up from the hotel between 08:00 to 08:30 am, then we’ll go to the colorful town of Chinchero, where we will find Inca wall constructions and its small Church Colonial that awaits a lot of history. Also, we will participate in the elaboration of the Andean fabrics in a textile interpretation center, where our brothers from the town of Chinchero will show us their ancestral art.
  • After this fascinating experience, we will continue with our adventure towards the famous circular cultivation terraces in Moray. There, our ancestors, the Incas, experimented to find out the type of product for each altitudinal floor.
  • Continuing our journey, we will descend towards the Salt mines in Maras (a picturesque place with spectacular landscapes). Here, we will visit the more than 3000 wells of salt. The Incas used this salt for their consumption.
  • Finally, we ‘ll return to Cusco to recharge energies for our next day.

Lodging: Cusco Tandapata Boutique Hotel *** or similar (Cusco).

DAY 3: FIRST DAY OF THE INCA TRAIL, PISCACUCHO TO WAYLLABAMBA (15 KM)

After breakfast, we will travel to the starting location of the trail, known as kilometer 82. This first day is relatively easy-going and smooth as we move along visiting ruins such as the city of Llactapata. This ruin, constructed at the foot of a mountain, was a very important center that had administrative, economic, and religious functions. We will also visit Willkarakay, a military post located above the site of Patallacta.

After visiting these two sites we will enter the valley of Wayllabamba, walking along the banks of the Cusichaca (“happy bridge”) River, also observing the Inca terraces that belong to the previous archaeological sites. Continuing our gradual walk upward we will arrive to our first campsite in Wayllabamba.

Lodging: Campsite

DAY 4:  SECOND DAY OF THE INCA TRAIL, WAYLLABAMBA TO PACAYMAYU (16 KM)

  • We will begin our day very early to reach the end of the day the highest point on the Inca trail, the mountain pass of Warmihuañusca (dead woman’s pass).
  • The trek in the morning is rather physically intense, more so for those who are not accustomed to hikes at this altitude, yet it is also one of the most spectacular. In the first part of the trail, we will walk approximately 1 hour and a half through the cover of a densely vegetated Andean forest until arriving at the campsite of Three Stones, where we will take a short rest.
  • Continuing on our ascent, the habitat will begin to change as we enter the inter-Andean forest full of Unca trees, unique to this area. Two hours later we will arrive at another campsite, Llulluchapampa, where we will take an extended rest with snacks and hot drinks. From here begins the final ascent to the pass of Warmihuañusca at 4,215 meters (13,829 ft), the highest point of the trek, a great opportunity for fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding valleys below, before descending a few hours to our next campsite in Pacaymayu for the night.

Lodging: Campsite

DAY 5: THIRD DAY OF THE INCA TRAIL, PACAYMAYU TO WIÑAYHUAYNA (10 KM)

  • We will begin ascending about 45 minutes to the archaeological site of Runkurakay, located mid-mountain, that was in ancient times a Tambo, or resting place. Another 45-minute ascent will take us to the second highest pass of the Inca trail, Runkurakay (3950 m, 12,959 ft), after which we will descend to the beautiful archaeological site of Sayacmarca, constructed in a strategic location. After a thorough visit, we will continue down the beautifully paved road to our lunch site at Chaquicocha.
  • From here onward to Phuyupatamarca we will enter the high Andean cloud forest, a marvelous display of Nature’s beauty. Here the trail continues a narrow ridge until arriving at the pass of Phuyupatamarka, a natural viewing area where it is possible to see the Sacred Valley and numerous mountain peaks, as well as our final destination of Machu Picchu. From here we will descend to our last campsite, passing a very important archaeological site and temple designated for offerings to the sacred mountain spirits of the area, as well as a large terraced area for agriculture. Slightly beyond is our campsite for the night, Wiñayhuayna.

Lodging: Campsite

DAY 6: FOURTH DAY OF THE INCA TRAIL, WIÑAYHUAYNA TO MACHU PICCHU (5 KM)

  • We will rise very early to complete the final stretch of the Inca Trail, which brings us to Inti Punku or the Sun Gate, the principal entrance of the crystal city of Machu Picchu. The trail here is fairly easy going and after about an hour we will arrive at Inti Punku, an awesome location to observe the citadel of Machu Picchu and, weather permitting, sunrise in the Andes.
  • Afterward, a 45-minute descent will take us into the higher area of Machu Picchu, a natural lookout point for the “famous” classic picture and an opportunity for a group picture. Here we will enter as a group to the main entrance for registration before returning to the site for the main tour to learn more about this magical place of beauty and culture left by our ancestors. The tour will last approximately between 2 or 3 hours, then you will have time to explore and climb to the Huayna Picchu mountain (at an extra cost and have to be booked in advance). In the afternoon we will descend by bus to the town of Aguas
  • You will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes for lunch and to be given your train tickets back to Cusco. Included in our service is the tourist bus from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes, return on the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo where you will be collected and taken by bus back to Cusco.

Lodging: Cusco Tandapata Boutique Hotel *** or similar (Cusco).

 

 DAY 7: DEPARTURE TO PUNO (ROUTE OF THE SUN)

  • In the morning we will depart from the bus terminal and head towards Puno. This is a special journey by bus which allows us to visit the many diverse locations along the way on the route of the sun. There will we planned stops to visit the following:
  • Andahuaylillas: (the Sistine Chapel of the Americas, this temple is one of the best examples of the fusion between Catholic and Andean religions)
  • Raqchi: A Inka temple dedicated to the God Wiracocha, construction of monumental dimensions, an estimated 100 meters long, 26m wide, 14m high. This is the only known temple dedicated to the God Wiracocha, creator of the Universe.
  • La Raya: Midway point on our journey and the highest point on the road – 4335 m.s.n.m. The impressive views here allow us to admire the rugged high altitude, full of tall peaks, many of which are snow-capped, and herds of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. This is the geographic border between two cultures, the Quechua of Cusco and the Aymara of Puno.
  • Pucara: This ceremonial center is one of the oldest and most important of the high plains, well known for its lithic structures and tombs.
Lodging: Royal Inn **** or similar (Puno).

DAY 8: UROS (FLOATING ISLANDS) – TAQUILE ISLAND

  • Very early in the morning between 04:00 to 04:30 am, our transport will pick you up at your hotel to start the tour.
  • We will go to the south of the city, crossing fields, rivers, mountains, and villages. We will travel for about 2 hours until we reach the town of Cusipata, where we will enjoy our delicious breakfast.
  • After breakfast, we will travel for another 45 minutes, observing beautiful landscapes, canyons, glaciers, and herds of llamas and alpacas, until we reach the starting point of the hike in Pulawasipata.
  • We will walk for approximately 2 hours until we reach the Mountain of Colors or Winincunca. On the way, we will observe numerous South American camelids with their shepherds dressed in beautiful colorful typical costumes.
  • Upon reaching the top of the Mountain of Colors, we will have enough time to take the photographs and enjoy the landscape. Besides, we can also clearly appreciate the highest snow in Cusco, the Ausangate mountain.
  • Later we will undertake the return along the same path until we reach our transport to return to Cusipata, where we will taste our delicious buffet lunch.
  • After lunch, we will return to Cusco, our vehicle will leave you in the center of the city.

Lodging: Royal Inn **** or similar (Puno).

DAY 9: PUNO – JULIACA – FLY TO LIMA

  • According to your flight schedule, we’ll be ready to transfer you to the Juliaca airport, located 1 hour from Puno city.
  • After this brief transfer from Puno to the neighboring city of Juliaca we’ll say goodbye and finish our services. (End of tour)
NOTE: Please note that domestic flights are not included and will need to be arranged on your own. In addition, we need to know your flight details from Juliaca to Lima to set the time for pick-up.

What´s Included

INCLUDED:

  • 05 nights accommodations in 03 or 04 stars hotels (based on double occupation).
  • 03 nights accommodations in camps
  • 8 breakfasts (3 breakfasts during Inca trail and 5 in your hotels).
  • 5 lunches (3 during Inca Trail and 2 during “Route of the sun” and the other one during “Uros – Taquile” tour).
  • 3 dinners (During Inca Trail).
  • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
  • All entrances fees to the rest of the attractions mentioned in the package.
  • All transportation.
  • All transfers during the package.
  • The Voyager (Incarrail) or Expedition (Peru Rail), Return train service from Machu Picchu.
  • Buses from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town.
  • Private guided tour in Machu Picchu.
  • Professional English-Speaking Tour Guide during the whole trip

During Inca Trail.

  • Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
  • Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
  • Professional Cook
  • Porters to carry all equipment
  • Personal porter for 5 kg/11.02 lbs per person (1 personal porter is included – up to 5 kilos per duffle bag, which will be provided and must fit all your belongings PLUS sleeping bag)
  • Pick-up from your hotel
  • Transportation by bus to Km 82
  • Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
  • Water (excluding the first day of the trek when you need to bring your own)
  • 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Afternoon Snacks (Happy Hour) and 3 Dinners during Inca Trail reconfirm the day of our briefing
  • Dining tent with tables and chairs
  • Oxygen bottle
  • Inflatable Thermares or REI sleeping mattress (which you must carry)
  • EUREKA Tents – Comfortable and spacious (2 people per tent)
  • First-aid kit
  • Entrances Tickets to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
  • Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

NOT INCLUDED:

  • Flights
  • Single supplement or single occupancy: US$?????? (03 stars hotel) /us$????? (04 stars hotels)
  • Meals where are not stated
  • Huayna Picchu entrance fee US$35
  • Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.

THINGS TO BRING:

  • Original Passport
  • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
  • Warm jacket
  • T-shirts
  • Comfortable Trousers
  • Sun hat
  • Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
  • Insect repellant
  • Personal medication
  • Camera and film

Prices

THIS TOUR RUNS ONLY AS A PRIVATE SERVICE.

****Daily Departure with at least 02 people****

1.-PRICES WITH 03 STARS HOTELS (based in double occupation):
NUMBER OF PAXS PRICE PER PERSON ACTION
*02 or more people US$ 799.00
BOOK NOW
2.-PRICES WITH 04 STARS HOTELS (based in double occupation):
NUMBER OF PAXS PRICE PER PERSON ACTION
*02 or more people US$ 999.00
BOOK NOW

Discounts:

  • Under 18 years old: US$ 25:00 Please send us a copy of the passport at the booking time.
  • Under 10 years old: US$ 65:00 Please send us a copy of the passport at the booking time.
  • Student Discount (Maximum Age 25 years old): US$ 25:00 Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a university student card to receive the discount, we need to see a copy of the card at booking. For those booking children 17-years-old or younger, we need a copy of their passport at booking time. Please send all to info@inkayniperutours.com.  More Information about STUDENT CARD.

Departure Dates

  • Daily departures: We pick you up from your hotel 30 minutes before the tour.

FAQS?

How to contact Inkayni Peru Tours?

Inkayni works 24 hours per day, in their differents booking forms and free information: by e-mail, by telephone, and by our web page.

Inkayni Peru Tours will organize all about your trip, hotels, transportation, meals, and other items for giving you a fantastic trip. If you want to arrange your package to visit PERU, Inkayni is the only tour operator that provides you with alternatives to do your packages and gives you the best options for your hotels and your kind of transportation.

You can book with us with 50% of the cost of your trip, and you will pay the other 50% when you are in Cusco city with us.

Useful Things

Sturdy shoes, a good raincoat, and warm layers for the evening are the only essential items. Bring comfortable and modest clothes for the time in Cusco. There is no need to bring a sleeping bag or any gear as you’ll be staying in lodges throughout the expedition.

Documents and Logistics:

  • International flights booked and confirmed to Cusco
  • Flight information submitted
  • Passport valid through the end of the trip (*Passport and entry receipt must be carried at all times during expedition!)
  • Medical insurance card
  • Cash for tipping guides, buying souvenirs, incidental costs, etc. (*Note: Please bring crisp US bills. Many places will not accept torn, wrinkled, or worn bills)
Airport Information

Airport and airlines located in the port of the city of Callao, Lima’s Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chavez 01-517-3100 www.lap.com.pe.

Callao is serviced by flights from North, Central, and South America, and two regular direct flights from Europe (Madrid and Amsterdam) check the airport website or call 01-511-6055 for update departure and arrival schedules for domestic and international flights.

Cusco has the only other airport with international al service to La Paz, Bolivia.

Do I need a Visa to enter Peru?

With a few exceptions (notably some Asian, African and Communist countries), Visa is not required for travelers entering Peru.

Tourists are permitted a 30 to a 90-day stay, which is stamped into their passports and onto a tourist card called Tarjeta Andina de Migracion “TAM”(Andean Immigration card), that you must return upon leaving the country.

Be careful not to lose your tourist card, or you will have to queue at the immigration office (Oficina de Migraciones), also known as Migraciones to get a replacement card. It is a good idea to carry your passport and TAM in your pocket at all times, especially when traveling in remote areas, for example, it is required by law on the Inca Trail.

For security get a photocopy of both documents and keep them in a separate place form the originals.

Money in Peru

Peru uses the Nuevo Sol (S), which has traded from S3.00 to S3.30 per US dollar (US$) for several years, although you should keep an eye on current events.

Carrying cash, an ATM card or traveler´s checks, as well as a credit card that can be used for cash advances in case of emergency, is advisable.

When receiving local currency, always ask for small bills (Billetes Pequeños), as S100 bills are hard to change in small towns or for small purchases. Carry as much spare change as possible, especially in the small cities.

Public bathrooms often charge a small fee for use, and getting change for paper can be darn near impossible.

The best places to exchange money are usually foreign exchange bureaus (Casa de Cambio), which are fast, have longer hours, and often give slightly better rates than banks.

Many places accept US dollars. Do not accept torn money as it will likely not be accepted by Peruvians.

It is best not to change money on the street as counterfeits are a problem.

Do you know what voltage the sockets have (110 or 220)?

What are the standard plugs?

Electrical current is 220V, 60HZ AC, Standard outlets accept round prongs, but many places will have dual-voltage outlets which take flat prongs. Even so, you may need an adapter with a built-in surge protector.

What should we pack?

Peru is a diverse country in natural and cultural resources, so you only need a passport to enter our country and take some precautions that will help you to enjoy the wealth of this beautiful land.

Phone Calls

Public payphones operated by Telefonica-Peru (www.telefonica.com.pe) or Claro-Perú (www.claro.com.pe)  are available on the street even in small towns. Most payphones work with phone cards which can be purchased at supermarkets and groceries. Often internet cafes have private phone booths with ¨net-to-phone¨ and ¨net-to-net¨ capabilities (such as skype), where you can talk for pennies or even for free.

When calling Peru from abroad, dial the international access code for the country you are in, then Peru¨s country code (51), then the area code without the 0 and finally, the local number.

Making international calls from Peru, dial the international access code (00), then the country code of where you are calling to, then the area code and finally the local phone number.

In Peru, any telephone number beginning with a 9 is a cell-phone number. Numbers beginning with 0800 are often toll-free only when dialed from private phones, not from public payphones.

What is the time difference between the United States and Peru?

Peru is five hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). It is the same as Eastern Standard Time (EST) in North America.

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is not used in Peru, so add an hour to all of these times between the first Sunday in April and the last Sunday in October.

Weather

Peru has three main climatic zones: the tropical Amazon jungle to the east, the arid coastal desert to the west, and the Andean mountains and highlands in between. In the Andes, which have altitudes over 3500m. Average daily temperatures are around 10°C (50°F), and overnight temperatures can dip well below freezing. Travelers flying straight to Cuzco (3250m), or their hight altitude cities, should allow several days to acclimatize since altitude sickness or soroche can be a problem.

April to November is the dry season in the mountain and Andean Plateau (altiplano). The wettest months are from December to March. It rains al the time in the hot and humid rainforest, but the driest months there are from April from November. However, even during the wettest months from December to March, it rarely rains for more than a few hours at a time. Along the arid coastal strip, the hot summer months from December through March.

Hotels 3***

Some of our partner hotels are:

IN CUSCO:

  • Tandapata Boutique hotel
  • Koyllur Inn
  • Cusco Jungle Hotel
  • Andenes al Cielo hotels

IN MACHUPICCHU:

  • Golden Sunrise
  • Hatun Samay
  • La Cabaña Hotels
  • Hatun Inti Classic
Hotels 4***

Some of our partner hotels are:

IN CUSCO:

  • Sonesta Hotel Cusco
  • Casa Andina Private Collection
  • San Agustin El Dorado
  • San Agustin Plaza

IN MACHUPICCHU:

  • Taypikala Hotels
  • Tierra Viva Hotels









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