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G Adventures Inca Trail Review: What to Expect on The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

If you’re an enthusiast for epic hikes, mysterious ancient cities and breathtaking scenery, then no doubt hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will appear somewhere on your travel bucket list. It certainly was near the top of mine!

If you’re thinking of doing the Inca Trail trek, this article is for you! This G Adventures Inca Trail review is packed with tons of useful information about what to expect.

Although most tours will offer a similar itinerary, I choose to do the G Adventures Inca Trail tour. I opted for a few days before the hike, exploring the Sacred Valley, before embarking on the 4 day Inca Trail trek.

You can, of course, visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco or Aguas Calientes, however, for the more adventurous traveller, I highly recommend the Inca Trail hike. Find out why I chose to hike the Inca Trail with G Adventures. Let’s go!

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Why I Wanted to Hike the Inca Trail, Peru

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This Inca Trail G Adventures guide is divided into easy-to-digest sections. The first section covers useful information you should know, regardless of which Inca Trail tour you opt for.

The second section goes into specifics about why I chose G Adventures and what to expect – I’ll add that I paid for this trip myself, I was not sponsored by G Adventures to just say positive stuff, so this Machu Picchu hike review is an account based purely on my experience.

The final section is filled with Inca Trail tips and FAQs that I’ve been asked about doing the Machu Picchu Inca Trail hike so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you trek the Inca Trail.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article right now, then you can download this packing list and information sheet straight to your inbox.

The Inca Trail: 7D/6N

✅ Starts & Finishes in Cusco

✅ Tour of the Sacred Valley, Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

✅ Max. group size: 16

✅ No solo travel supplement

Your download is on its way to your inbox 🙂

If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you’ll have learnt about my obsession with ancient civilisations and ruins. I blame this on when I was a kid. 

I used to love this cartoon called ‘ The Mysterious Cities of Gold ‘ which followed the adventures of three children and their hunt for this ancient lost city in South America – although it wasn’t strictly based on Peruvian ancient sites , it planted the seed for a love for ancient civilizations.

Since then, The Inca Trail in Peru had been on my bucket list for what felt like ever and was top of my must-see things in Peru. 

Inca Trail Adventure Tour – Know Before You Go

Until 1911, the Lost City of the Inca remained forgotten until the explorer Hiram Bingham III discovered it. He was actually looking for a different ancient city but stumbled across the ruins of Machu Picchu. 

The beautifully preserved ancient site had been hidden away for centuries until its discovery. Today, the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most iconic landmarks and top attractions.

How Long Is the Inca Trail Trek?

The Inca Trail trek is a 43 km (26 mi) journey through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems. The Inca Trail tour I chose was spread over 4 days, ending the journey at the amazing Machu Picchu in Peru.

How High Is Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail’s highest section is known as ‘Dead Woman’s Pass,’ climbing up to approximately 4,215 meters above sea level. This is the part of the trail most people struggle on because of the altitude. The ruins of Machu Picchu rest at an elevation of 2,430 meters above sea level.

How Long Does It Take To Hike the Inca Trail?

Depending on which tour you take, the Inca Trail hike takes 2 to 4 days. This offers different options for trekkers. Some complete it in 2 days, while others prefer a more leisurely 4-day journey – the longer trek gives you more time to take in the diverse landscapes and ancient sites along the trail.

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Inca Trail Difficulty

If you’re a bit anxious about the Inca Trail hike difficulty, then you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s only classed as a moderate-level hike, so technically most people can do it. However, parts of it are demanding. What makes it tough is that the 43 km (26 mi) route is at a high altitude with several steep inclines.

As long as you have a good level of fitness you will be fine. If you do have issues with your knees, make sure you take a pair of hiking poles, some of the downward sections are very tough on your joints.

You can prepare for your Inca Trail adventure by doing local day hikes in your home country, or if you’re not near anywhere with steep inclines, then join a gym that has treadmills and set them to incline mode.

The great thing, and what I mention later in my Inca Trail review, is that G Adventures provides two guides. One will lead from the front of the group, and the other guide stays at the back of the group and walks at the pace of the slowest person. There was no pressure at any point to have to keep up with the fastest people in the group.

The Best Time to Trek the Inca Trail

Peru has two seasons; the dry season (April – November) and the wet season (December – March). You can hike The Inca Trail all year round, except for February. Each year the Inca Trail shuts for a month for essential maintenance work, so it’s worth bearing this in mind before you plan your trip to Peru. 

The ruins of Machu Picchu itself are open all year round, and there are alternate hiking routes, such as the Lares Trek , if the official Inca Trail is shut.

The best time to trek Inca Trail is either May or October, this is because it’s slightly warmer and dryer than June, July and August, which is the peak time for tourists (which also coincides with summer vacations in the northern hemisphere).

The temperature on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu can vary. At certain times of the year, night-time temperatures can drop to freezing. In August, daytime temperatures are around 20°C/68°F and drop to 12°C/54°F at night (and even colder). In December temperatures are about 26˚C/79˚F during the day and approximately 16˚C/61˚F at night.

The weather on the Inca Trail, as I experienced, can vary a lot. I did the trek in January which was right in the middle of the rainy season but had a mix of gloriously sunny days followed by wind and rain the next. Ideally, you’ll most likely want to visit when the weather on Inca Trail is dryer, so aim from April onwards.

Altitude sickness is a very real thing, although it affects everyone slightly differently. Ideally, you’ll want to spend a couple of days in Cusco before starting on any of the Inca Trail hiking tours so your body can acclimatise.

I was in Lake Titicaca (3,810 meters above sea level) and Cusco (3,249 meters above sea level) for about a week before I did the Inca Trail, so my body was used to the thinner air. Initially, I had mild headaches, tingly fingers and feet and was a bit out of breath. I just took it easy, relaxed and the feeling passed in a couple of days.

As a generalisation, to feel the effects of altitude sickness, you’ll need to be above 2,500 meters. The highest part of the Inca Trail is a section called ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ which is around 4,215 meters above sea level. The ruins of Machu Picchu sit at 2,430 meters above sea level.

Travel Insurance for Inca Trail

Because of the nature of the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, you need to make sure you have suitable travel insurance. At our pre-departure briefing, our guides checked our insurance documents to see if we were covered.

Inca trail trekking requires specific insurance , so you need to check that your policy covers you for high-altitude hiking. Most general travel insurance doesn’t cover this as standard. 

Although you won’t probably find a specific Inca Trail insurance, you’ll at least be able to get a policy that covers you to an altitude of more than 5,000 meters.

The go-to company I always use (and that will give you Inca Trail travel insurance) is True Traveller . Any time I’ve had an issue, they’ve been really quick at sorting the problem. The downside for my US (or rest of world) readers is that they only cover European travellers. A great alternative is World Nomads which will offer insurance for hiking the Inca Trail.

⭐️ True Traveller specialises in Adventure Travel ⭐️

The great thing is you can tailor your policy to cover exactly what you need – so you’re not paying for any cover you don’t need.

They have an option to bolt on coverage for altitude hiking, such as the Inca Trail.

G Adventures Inca Trail Review

I have done quite a few trips already with G Adventures, and every time, I was very impressed with them, from the itineraries they offered, the travel style and of course the guides and staff.

I’m always a bit dubious about booking on to any group tour, I’m mostly a solo traveller so being with a bunch of other people makes me quite angst about not having the freedom I would usually have with independent travel.

While I was researching the Inca Trail, I also knew I was only interested in doing it with one of the best Inca trail tour companies. I’d read awful stories of some companies not treating the staff properly in terms of not providing them with suitable equipment, or paying them a fair wage.

NOTE: This is NOT a sponsored article. G Adventures did not fund my trip in exchange for me to say nice things about them. I funded this trip myself and based my review on my personal experiences. All views and opinions are my own.

Why Choose G Adventures for the Inca Trail?

I mentioned before about only being interested in joining one of the best Inca Trail tours, although I did read a ton of reviews, as well as delved into what other companies were offering, G Adventures came up tops all around.

It’s true, G Adventures were a little more expensive than some of the other tours I looked at, but when you looked into it, there were a lot of little extras that G Adventures did do and provide, that the competitors didn’t.

• As standard, you’ll have a local and knowledgeable guide – more than that, we had 2 guides. And although they were Peruvian, their English was excellent, so communication was never an issue. Within G Adventures, they call their guides the CEO – in this case, this translates to the Chief Experience Officer.
• One of the key things I was looking for, was how well the staff were treated, in particular the porters (who are absolute superheroes – you’ll find out why later). G Adventures pays their team a fair wage, as well as ensures any equipment is in top nick.
• G Adventures has over 20 years’ worth of experience in offering top-notch tours. Don’t just take my word for it (you can check out these reviews on TourRadar . They certainly know how to provide fantastic small-group tours.
• G Adventures is an ethical company. The Planeterra Foundation was founded by G Adventures in 2003. This foundation focuses on social enterprise in tourism, which ensures that money coming into the area, stays in the area and goes straight to locally owned projects.

Find out more about what G Adventures are doing to help local initiatives here.

• G Adventures is the market leader in the promotion of responsible travel and tourism.
• They also offer their Travel with Confidence Guarantee which gives you peace of mind when booking.
• And this is one of my favourite things about G Adventures, they don’t have a solo traveller surcharge. This means I wasn’t penalised for not booking as a couple – so this got a big thumbs up.
• If you’re still not convinced, then you can read more G Adventures Machu Picchu reviews here . 

Which G Adventures Machu Picchu Adventure Was Right for Me?

G Adventures offers several different tours that incorporate trekking the Inca Trail. Originally, I was just going to do the 4-day tour, but I opted for the one called ‘The Inca Trail’, which is their 7-day tour .

I ended up choosing this tour as it included other ruins in the Sacred Valley that I wanted to see anyway, and would have been a hassle to get to on my own. The 7-day option also included my original plan of the 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.

Trekking The Inca Trail: 4D/3N

✅ Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Amazon to Andes: 12D/11N

✅ Starts & Finishes in Lima

✅ Tour of the Sacred Valley, Inca Trail & Machu Picchu, & Amazon

✅ Max. group size: 12

What’s Included in the G Adventure Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour?

Naturally, this will differ slightly depending on which tour you book. I opted to do this 7 day Inca Trail tour , however, these things will be included with the price of the 4 day Inca Trail trek part on all of the tours I suggested above;

• G Adventures Cusco representative
• Accommodation in a hotel in Cusco the night before you depart.
• Inca Trail guided hike, with guides, porters and cooks during the 4 days on the Inca Trail
• Specialist Inca Trail CEO – Chief Experience Officer
• A guided tour of Machu Picchu plus free time to explore on your own.
• Private transport, in a comfortable mini-van between destinations and to/from included activities
• All meals included – Your breakfast, lunches and dinners (while on the Inca Trail).
• Scenic train ride back from Aguas Calientes
• Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, inflatable mattress etc.)
• Inca Trail Permit and entrance ticket to Machu Picchu

Everything was so easy as it’s all been planned for you so you just have to turn up and have fun! Hannah C, TrustPilot on the The Inca Trail: 7D/6N Tour

Everything was fantastic from the information leading up to departure to the team of people that worked on the mountain. I couldn’t thank them enough. Ben T, TrustPilot on the The Inca Trail: 7D/6N Tour

Looking for more G Adventures Inca Trail reviews, then head here to find out more.

Benefits of Taking a Group Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu

I nearly always travel solo, not because I’m anti-social, but more for freedom and convenience. However, sometimes, it’s nice to share an experience with other people. Although I will always love independent travel, there are benefits to doing small group tours.

• Someone else deals with the organisation and planning for you.
• You get to share the experience and connect with like-minded people
• You get a ton of insider knowledge from your guide
• Small group tours are great for making new friends 
• And of course, there’s no more struggling to take photos of yourself, and you’ll have tons of photos to share to remind you of the antics from your Inca Trail adventures.

Machu Picchu Hike Review – The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime, you should definitely consider hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. In this section, I will share with you my experience of the Machu Picchu hike with G Adventures and why I think it is one of the best things you can do in Peru.

Day 1 – Cusco

My 7 day Inca Trail trek started in Cusco. I had already been in Cusco for a few days before starting the tour, so didn’t have to worry about altitude sickness – my body had already acclimatised as I had been at Lake Titicaca (3,810 meters above sea level) before arriving in Cusco (3,249 meters above sea level). My day in the UNESCO city was fairly relaxed, as I waited for the rest of the group to arrive.

If you’re flying straight to Cusco from a low-altitude city, such as Lima, then I recommend arriving a couple of days before your Inca Trail trip starts to allow your body to acclimatise.

In the late afternoon, we all gathered in our hotel where we were introduced to the rest of our group and our guides, after the introductions, we had our briefing and were given more details on what to expect over the coming week. We also got to ask questions as well as do our all-important equipment check.

It’s useful to know that Cusco has a lot of outdoor shops. If you forgot to pack something for the Inca Trail , don’t panic, you will have a chance on this day to pick something up.

One of the things the guides will need to see during the briefing is your travel insurance .

If you don’t have a policy that covers you for altitude hiking, you will have to purchase it now. You need to make sure your policy covers you for hiking up to 5k altitude.

Day 2 – The Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo

We had an early start and after a tasty breakfast at our hotel and our last-minute packing, we were all set. Our tour of the Sacred Valley started with a visit to the Women’s Weaving Co-op and then to see locally produced pottery at Ccaccaccollo Community.

Both of these projects are supported by the G Adventures Planeterra scheme . Part of G Adventures’ mission is to put tourist money straight back into the local communities, and these women-owned initiatives were two successful outcomes of this. 

If you’ve been to Peru any time, you can’t fail but notice the strikingly rich and colourful textiles. If you’re looking for an authentic textile gift from Peru, this is where you’ll find it.

We stopped for a hearty lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. I’ll talk more about the food as I go on, but just as a heads up, – ALL the food I ate on this trip was phenomenal!

After lunch, we set off for the valley town of Ollantaytambo. You’ll have a guided tour of the ruins, before having free time to explore the site. You’ll then head back to the picturesque cobblestoned town. 

The town has a very relaxed feel to it, however, there are a couple of shops which are tailored towards anyone walking the Inca Trail who has forgotten something. I think most of our group bought a walking pole (they were essentially a broom handle, with a little colourful embroidered cover over the top). If you don’t have actual walking poles, I suggest getting one of these sticks.

It’s a good idea to spend the evening relaxing. But if you get the opportunity, I highly recommend visiting one of the local Chicherias and trying their locally made purple beer made from fermented corn!

Day 3 – The Inca Trail – Setting Off

We had another early start – there’s a theme running here! – to give us time to have a decent breakfast and pack our stuff. This is the last bit of civilisation you’ll see for the next few days. If you’re wondering what to take on Inca Trail, there is a list a little later on. 

If you have any large pieces of luggage or items with you, that you don’t plan to carry on the Inca Trail, then you can leave them at the hotel. Only pack your essentials, because you’ll be carrying them for the next few days.

From Ollantaytambo, it’s an 82km drive to the start of the Machu Picchu trek. When we arrived, of course, we took advantage of a great photo opportunity at the start of the trail. This is where we met the rest of our crew; the porters and the cooks along with all the camping equipment. This is now officially where The Inca Trail begins.

This first day of hiking feels more like a pleasant stroll through the countryside. You’ll ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking along the meandering streams and rivers and through stunning Andean scenery passing by ancient Incan ruins and stopping regularly to take it all in.

You’ll soon learn that the porters have the power of superhumans. They will carry everything (apart from your personal items), overtake you on the trail, and set up the camp for when you arrive.

The first evening at the camp was comfortable with a hearty meal washed down with coca tea. After dinner and with a full belly, everyone had that relaxed feeling. 

Some of us stayed up chatting for a while in the communal tent, while others slipped off to their own tents. The air is very cool at night, so certainly pack some warm layers to sleep in if you feel the cold easily.

Day 4 – The Inca Trail – Dead Woman’s Pass

We were woken early by the crew with a delicious cup of warming coca tea as well as a basin of hot water so we could wash. I’ll go into more about washing on the Inca Trail in the FAQ section below.

If you’re not sure what coca tea is, it’s the dried leaves of the coca plant, the same plant that cocaine comes from, steeped in boiling water. Coca tea is legal in lots of South America and it can help alleviate the effects of altitude sickness. It also has a slight numbing effect if you chew the leaves. However, don’t try to bring it back as a souvenir as it’s illegal in lots of countries.

Today is when you climb the highest part of the Inca Trail as it follows a long and steady incline to Warmiwañusca – aka Dead Woman’s Pass.

The weather on the Inca Trail can be inclement. In contrast to the fabulous weather we have had so far, today it rained! A LOT! So needless to say, this wasn’t my favourite day on the Inca Trail. If you suffer badly from altitude sickness, or you didn’t have enough time before this trip to acclimatize, you will feel it the most today.

The hike, at the highest point, reaches 4,198m. I’d consider myself a fairly fit person, however, with the altitude it’s exhausting and I needed to stop at regular intervals.

The great thing about having two guides on the Inca Trail is that on tough parts of the trail, like today, one guide will stay at the front of the group, and one will stay at the back of the group. This meant that there was no pressure if someone needed to walk slowly and take a lot of breaks.

By the time I reached the top of Dead Woman’s Pass, the rain was beginning to ease. The rain had made the route down the other side incredibly slippery. This was one of those times when the walking pole was an absolute saviour, and I was thankful for the extra support they gave as I was scrambling my way over the slippery boulders and steps.

Of course, our fabulous porters and cooks had run on ahead, up the steep incline of Dead Woman’s Pass, and down the treacherous other side, had set up camp and cooked; all by the time we arrived. Everyone in our group was constantly in awe at the stamina and strength of these guys.

Day 5 – The Inca Trail – Cloud Forest & Ruins

After a well-deserved rest from yesterday’s tough hike, I was glad to hear today would be a little gentler….a little, However, today’s section of The Inca Trail covered two passes. The first one is Runquraqay at 3,950m.

We got up, packed and set off (and of course, our superhero porters managed to pack up camp and overtake us). Eventually, we reached the summit when our guide stopped at the top and pointed out a cloudy spot on the horizon. 

On a clear day, we should have been able to see a snow-capped mountain called Cordillera Vilcabamba. Unfortunately, there was too much cloud to even get a glimpse. 

The trail then started to descend and headed down into the Cloud Forest, before ascending again. I kept my fingers crossed in the hope of seeing one of the shy spectacled bears. In the UK, the adventures of Paddington Bear were a big thing during my childhood. The cute character, Paddington Bear was a spectacled bear, and according to the books, he came from deepest darkest Peru !

The terrain starts to incline again, the highest part of this pass is 3,700m. On this section of the Inca Trail, we got to walk amongst the ruins of an ancient Incan settlement. 

Eventually, we reached the ruins of Phuyupatamarca which translates to the “town above the clouds.” Quite an apt name seeing as we’re at 3,650m! Of course, we had some time here to either sit, relax and admire the view, or explore the ruins.

The trail looks down on the Urubamba Valley, which makes an amazing panoramic shot. After our break at the ruins, we continued our downhill meander before moving on to tonight’s camp at Wiñay Wayna ruins at a much more comfortable 2,650 meters.

Day 6 – The Inca Trail – Sun Gate to Machu Picchu

So, if you thought the previous few days had uncomfortably early starts, then you’ll hate today. The final day of the hike starts before the sun is even up. We were woken at 3.30 with a hot cup of coca tea to try to entice us out of our warm beds.

The reason for the unearthly wake-up time was that we wanted to be at the Sun Gate to see the sun rising, casting the first rays of light over the ancient city of Machu Picchu. After packing up and setting off by torchlight, and scrambling along the trail in the dark (note: take a decent head torch!) we eventually reached the Sun Gate.

As romantic as the idea sounded to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu, we had clouds that morning. The promised ‘Sun Gate’ was certainly more of a ‘cloud gate’ on this day. We did have fun taking photos, pointing to where the gate should have been before setting off again.

Our group made it down to Machu Picchu as the clouds began to break. Although I had seen countless images of the lost city, nothing quite prepared me for how stunning it was in real life.

It’s every bit as impressive as the guidebooks state and more! I was also pleasantly surprised that it’s a lot bigger in real life than any photo makes out (unlike the portrait of the Mona Lisa in Paris, which is disappointingly small).

Thankfully, the clouds were just beginning to break as we arrived, and then the elusive sun came out to show off Machu Picchu in all her glory.

Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, you’ll be ushered down to the ticket gate to check-in, and meet your official guide to the site. Our tour lasted a couple of hours, before being given free time to explore the ruins by ourselves. 

The great thing about being at the site so early was that we had the place nearly to ourselves. As the morning went on, the crowds seemed to multiply.

While you’re exploring the site, be sure to walk out to the Inca Bridge. This tiny, unassuming bridge looks like it’s just been balanced on the cliff face. This used to be one of the routes into the city. You cannot walk across it, and even if I could, I’m not sure I’d want to take my chances on this skinny piece of wood resting over the sheer drop of the valley down below.

After perusing as much Machu Picchu, as possible, our group reconvened to catch the tourist bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. The town is a bustling hive of activity, and although a bit on the shabby side, certainly had a buzz about it. It’s famed for its hot waters, hence the name.

You’ll have a bit of time in the town, however, after the insanely early start, most of our group was happy to relax until our train arrived. 

The train has a very retro feel to it, as it trundles away along through the Sacred Valley on the route back to Ollantaytambo. The train has windows on the ceiling, so you really do get a panoramic view of the scenery.

We arrived back in Ollantaytambo, where we collected the luggage we had left there, before heading back to Cusco in the minivan.

This was our final day, where we said goodbye to our guides and our tight-knit unit. I opted to stay another day in Cusco, exhilarated yet exhausted and reflecting on the outstanding Inca Trail experience I’d just had.

So, is hiking the Inca Trail worth it? 100% yes. 

The whole experience exceeded my expectations, I’m so glad I chose the G Adventures Inca Trail . I can wholeheartedly say this was the best Inca Trail tour I could have hoped for.

There is nothing I would change. Ok, so perhaps the weather, but that aside, I would do the whole experience, exactly the same if I ever get the opportunity. 

If you’re in the early stages of planning your Inca Trail Machu Picchu tour, then certainly consider any one of the G Adventures Machu Picchu tours .

G Adventures Inca Trail Packing List

This is just a glance at essential items to consider when packing for Inca Trail . One thing to be mindful of is to keep your packing to a minimum because you will be carrying it for the entire 4 days. 

You can download a fully comprehensive packing list here, but this is a quick list of essentials that I 100% recommend you take with you.

• Hiking Day Bag – Invest in a good quality, comfortable hiking pack. Go for one with a waist strap to take the weight off your shoulders and ideally one with loops on to attach your walking poles. It’s also useful to have one with an inbuilt rain cover.
• Walking Poles – Although your ego might stop you from wanting to use these, I 100% advise you to brush the ego aside and use the damn walking poles. I have a long-term issue with my knee – it dislocates at random times, but it’s fine if I manage it properly. I know I would have really struggled without my walking poles. There are a lot of stairs and elevations to go up and down and even for people without knee problems, the Inca Trail takes it out on your joints. I use a fairly technical walking pole because of my knee problem. I use a lightweight aluminium pole, with a cork handle and spring suspension. However, there are more basic models available. 

• Hiking Boots – The main thing to consider in hiking boots for Inca Trail, is that they are comfortable. Make sure you have broken them in BEFORE you do the Inca Trail. It’s also worth making sure they are waterproof and have a decent tread. 
• Rain and Windproof Jacket – The weather can be changeable in the mountains, and my lasting memory of the Dead Woman’s Pass section of the trail was that it was wet and windy. Be sure to pack water and a windproof jacket for this. It’s also worth having a plastic poncho to put over the top of both you and your bag to keep the water out.
• Flannel, plastic bags and eco-toilet paper – These are all linked to keeping clean on the Inca Trail. There are no real bathrooms along it. You’ll get given a basin of warm water to wash in at the camps, use a flannel so you can have a full-body wash inside your tent. For the toilet, my preference was to use the bushes and eco-toilet paper. If you have any sanitary products, put these in a little plastic bag and dispose of them at the camp.
• Power Bank – There are no power outlets on the Inca Trail. So if you have electronics that will need charging, take a high-capacity power bank.
• Head Torch – You will need this throughout the Inca Trail, especially on day 4 when you have to trek in the dark to get to the Sun Gate. It’s best to go for a powerful head torch, to light the path clearly, and so you still have your hands free to use your walking poles.
• Money for Tips – Although you won’t be able to buy much while on the Inca Trail, it’s a good idea to have some cash to tip the porters and chefs. The team did an outstanding job over the 4 days of the Inca Trail and certainly deserves to be tipped for it. G Adventures recommends around 50 US Dollars for this.
• Snacks for Inca Trail – Although the food is top-notch on the Inca Trail, it’s you might want to stock up on snacks to nibble on between mealtimes. Things that always travel well and are good for energy are dried fruits and nuts and for an instant sugar hit then sweets or biscuits. 

This is only a shortlist of the essential items that you might overlook. I have written a comprehensive list of everything you need to pack in this handy download: what to pack: Inca Trail .

Other Useful Infomation & Tips for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail Trek With G Adventures

In this section, I share some useful information and tips that I’ve not covered so far in this article. 

How Much Money to Take on a G Adventures Inca Trail Tour

It’s no surprise that there are no ATMs along the Inca Trail, so take a bit of cash with you to buy anything along the way. You won’t find any shops along the route, but you’ll sometimes come across one of the locals selling snacks and things.

You’ll also need some cash so you can tip the crew.  They do an outstanding job over the 4 days and I felt they were worthy of a generous tip. G Adventures gives a suggested amount of 50 USD – this gets split between all the crew.

Is There a Limit on a G Adventure Group Size?

If you read any of the G Adventures TripAdvisor reviews , you’ll find that one of the things people love about this company is its commitment to keeping group sizes small.  G Adventures specialises in small group experiences.

For the G Adventure Inca Trail tour , the average group size was 12 people although the maximum can be up to 16 people. When I did this tour, we had 10 people in our group.

For the G Adventures Machu Picchu adventure tour , I did, there was no strict age limit. However, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

G Adventures attracts travellers who want to experience the culture of the destination with like-minded people regardless of age. I have been on several G Adventures tours with 20-somethings right up to people who had retired! 

Although our group certainly knew how to have fun, if you are looking for a more party-style tour company geared at the 18-35 age group, I would look at a different group hiking Inca Trail tour such as this Inca Trail Tour by Contiki as G Adventures tours aren’t really aimed at party animals.

Other G Adventures Peru Tours You Might Like

If you’re travelling through Peru, G Adventures does some other great adventure holidays that cover more than just the Inca Trail. You might be interested in these tours.

G Adventures Classic Peru

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9D/8N | 📍 LOCATION: Lima to Cusco

G Adventures Inca Discovery Plus

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9D/8N | 📍 LOCATION: Lima to Lima

G Adventures Absolute Peru Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 21D/20N | 📍 LOCATION: Lima to Lima

If you’re still undecided, then check out what other travellers say you can check out G Adventures Peru Reviews and the G Adventures Machu Picchu review here .

Read Next: Hikes In Peru That Aren’t The Inca Trail

Inca Trail With G Adventures – FAQs

Wow if you’re still reading – well done! I’ve given you a ton of info so far, you’re probably feeling a mix of overwhelm and excitement, which is exactly how I felt before I hiked the Inca Trail. 

In this final section, I answer some of the frequently asked questions that come up about doing the Inca Trail hike. 

The Classic Inca Trail Route is a total of 26 miles or 41 km. Typically it takes 4 days to complete. while reaching a maximum elevation of 13,828 feet (4,215 meters). The trek is challenging, but with a good fitness routine before the hike, most hikers complete the trek.

How Many Days in Cusco Before Inca Trail? 

This depends on how quickly you acclimatise. I was at Lake Titicaca for several days before coming to Cusco. Lake Titicaca is at a higher altitude than Cusco, so I had already acclimatised. If you’re flying straight to Cusco from Lima, then you’ll want at least a couple of days before the Inca Trail to get used to the altitude. 

How High Is the Inca Trail?

The highest point Inca Trail reaches is 4,215 meters 13,828 feet, this is on the second day when you walk the Dead Woman’s Pass section. The rest of the trail undulates, with other peaks at Runquraqay at 3,950 meters and Phuyupatamarca at 3,650 meters.

Most Inca trail trips take place over 4 days, although it is possible to do the same route but over 2 days instead. Check availability 2 day Inca Trail here. Because of the altitude, incline and having enough time to enjoy and take in the scenery, the 4 days Inca Trail is the most popular choice. 

Can You Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Independently?

It’s not encouraged to hike the Inca Trail by yourself unless you’re a very experienced hiker and camper. You’ll also have to arrange things like transportation and permits for Inca Trail plus have a good knowledge of the route. All of this is taken care of with any of the tours you book. 

Do I Need a Training Plan for Inca Trail?

In theory, if you’re an active person in your regular day-to-day life, then you won’t need to do any special training before doing The Inca Trail. However, even the fittest people can feel the effects of being active at altitude.

There is no Inca Trail fitness level required, however, if you’re not very active, or have never hiked then I would suggest doing some regular full-day hikes in your home country in the lead-up to your trip. This is also a good opportunity to test out your kit, check to see if your backpack is comfortable, break in your walking shoes and try out your hiking poles.

Where Can I Find a Map of the Inca Trail?

If you’ve ever thought, where is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and interested in seeing exactly where you’re going to be hiking, you can take a look at the Inca Trail map below – this is the official one from G Adventures that we were shown during our briefing. 

You can also download the map, packing list and information sheet for offline viewing.

How Do You Wash on the Inca Trail?

There are no showers on the Inca Trail. The two options for keeping clean are either using wet wipes, which on the whole aren’t good for the environment, plus, you’ll also have loads of waste to carry.

The alternative way to wash is by using a basin, which is the better option. In the morning, the porters will bring around a bowl of warm clean water to wash in. Packaging a flannel and a small travel towel is useful so you can wash your body inside your tent.

Where Do You Go to the Toilet on the Inca Trail?

At the camps, there are sometimes two options for toilet facilities. Either a little pop-up tent with a portable toilet inside that the porter will set up, or sometimes there is a toilet block. I found the toilet blocks REALLY dirty and smelly, so I never used them.

The main way that people go to the toilet during the Inca Trail, is in the bushes. Generally, in our group, we went in pairs, so one could keep a watch out while the other could do their ‘business’ in privacy. Peeing and pooping in the bushes is fine, just bury or cover it after and try to use eco-friendly toilet paper.

If you have sanitary products, then put these in a little plastic bag and dispose of them when you get to the camps as they will not decompose.

During the four days of our Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tour , we were fed delicious and wholesome foods. Out of our group of 10, there were 3 vegetarians, I was one of them – if you have other dietary requirements, make it known in advance, both at the time of booking the Inca Trail as well as to the representative before you set off on your tour.  It’s worth noting that I was never hungry, and portion sizes were plentiful. Food was always freshly prepared and cooked. 

Normally, breakfast was either porridge, pancakes or toast along with coffee, black tea or coca tea you might also get given little snacks for the day, typically fresh fruit or a cereal bar. 

Lunches were typically a healthy and hearty soup, either with chicken or vegetables and nearly always served with quinoa and grains. Sometimes it would also come with a side dish of sweet potato, avocados and bread. They are quite carb-heavy to give you the energy. One person in our group had a birthday during the Inca Trail, and they even baked a cake for her!

For dinner, typically the chef will prepare things like stews, grilled meats or vegetables all served with either bread, quinoa or grains. Sometimes there is a dessert if you can manage it. Again, there is coca tea to drink. 

At the camp food is served inside a large communal tent along with a long table with enough seating for everyone, so even if the weather is bad outside, you’ll have somewhere warm and sheltered to eat and socialise.

Thinking of Doing the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu?

I have zero doubts about recommending this tour to anyone wanting to do The Inca Trail. If you were asking yourself at any point, is the Inca Trail worth it, then I can wholeheartedly say yes, absolutely. I know I’d do the Inca Trail trek again in an instant!

Although other companies are offering similar tours, if you’re on the fence about choosing a company to use, I highly suggest you take a look at the GAdventures Inca Trail . 

Don’t just take my word for it, go read these other honest Inca Trail to Machu Picchu reviews .

Looking for more reasons to visit Peru? read more inspirational articles here…

• 16 Stunning Ancient Ruins in Peru
• Hikes in Peru that aren’t the Inca Trail
• Animals in Machu Picchu to Try and Spot
• The Complete Packing List for Inca Trail

I hope after reading this full G Adventures Inca Trail Review, you have a good insight into what to expect when you do the Machu Pichu Inca trail hike.

If you enjoyed this post, or know someone who will, then please like and share. If you’re planning to do the G Adventures Peru Inca Trail, why not pin it for future reference?

Have a question about planning your Peru itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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G adventures inca trail review: beautiful hike to machu picchu.

This post (likely) contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, and I may receive a small commission if you click one. This is at no extra cost to you.

If you are a fan of epic adventures, lust for historical places, and love mysteries, then the Inca Trail is the experience for you. It was absolutely something I had always wanted to do, so I booked to go on a G Adventures Inca Trail trek to be able to fulfil one of the biggest bucket list ticks of my travel life.

You can visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Aguas Caliente or even Cusco; however, the experience of visiting this lost city will be infinitely more magical if you embark on the mystical Inca Trail. A hundred-year-old pilgrimage through the Andes will have you, quite literally, following in the footsteps of a lost civilisation. 

This post covers everything you will experience if you choose to hike with G Adventures and why they are a great tour group to experience these moments with.

Choosing a tour group

Most tour groups will offer similar routes when hiking the Inca Trail. However, the G Adventures Inca Trail tour is a very popular option, and for good reason. I hiked the Inca Trail with G Adventures as part of a longer tour around Peru. If you are interested in seeing more of this country as part of a group travel tour, then this is the tour I took:

Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes

I highly recommend it!

Even if you are travelling the country independently, if you want to hike the Inca Trail, you will still have to book with a registered company and hike as part of a group. G Adventures offers a variety of treks covering different lengths. Take a look at all the options here .

I have travelled a lot with G Adventures (check out my experience with them in Africa here ), so it made a lot of sense for me to book this trip of a lifetime with them. I knew I would be in good hands. And they didn’t let me down! I will use this post to cover what the experience of hiking with G is and why I feel they are an excellent tour group to book with.

Why choose G Adventures for the Inca Trail?

I knew from experience that G Adventures value the experience they provide their travellers, but I also did some research into the way they approach this hike. It is true they are more expensive than most of the other companies, but this is for good reason.

Firstly G Adventures have been awarded ‘Best Inca Trail Tour Operator’ by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco in Peru.

Aside from this, there are some things that G offers, does and provides that some of the other companies do not.

The G Adventures team on the Inca Trail

• Unless you are part of a much smaller group (like I was!), you will have two guides with your group for the trail. One will stay at the front, and the other will be at the end of the group, meaning you are supported throughout the hike no matter the pace you are hiking at.
• One of the most important things to look at in a tour company is how they treat their porters. The porters are vital to the Inca trail and wouldn’t be possible without them. They work incredibly hard and, as such, must be treated with the respect they truly deserve.
• G Adventures pays the team a fair wage. And ensure they have all the correct equipment to do the job, including providing hiking boots. Some porters can be seen on the trail in sandals.
• Each porter has a specific role, from carrying your bags to tents, meat and even garbage. Ensuring everything is thought of.

G Adventures policies

• They have over 20 years of experience in offering the best tours. As a result, the team is a well-oiled machine.
• G Adventures is an ethical company. The Planterra Foundation was founded by G Adventures in 2003. This focuses on social enterprise in tourism, which ensures money coming into the area supports locally owned projects.
• They also offer a ‘ Book with Confidence ‘ guarantee . As well as lifetime deposits. Both of these can give you peace of mind when booking. You can take a look at their policies here .
• And finally, one of the great things about G Adventures trips is that they don’t charge a surcharge for a solo traveller. You will be sharing a tent with someone else unless you want to pay more to go solo. But there is no penalisation for not being part of a couple!

What options do you have for hiking the Inca Trail with G Adventures?

Depending on your budget and time constraints, there are different options for which Inca Trail trips you can book with G Adventures.

Trekking the Inca Trail: 4D/3N

• Starts in Cusco
• Finishes in Cusco
• Inca Trail & Machu Picchu
• Max group size: 16
• Includes three nights camping on the Inca Trail

Trekking the Inca Trail: 5D/4N

• Includes one night in a hotel and three nights camping on the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail: 7D/6N

• Tour of the Sacred Valley
• Includes three nights in hotels and three nights camping on the Inca Trail

What does a G Adventure Inca Trail include?

This will vary slightly depending on which G Adventure tour you book, but largely it remains the same.

• A pre-tour brief to cover everything you need to know about hiking the trail
• The option to hire a sleeping bag, air mattress and hiking poles
• Accommodation in Cusco the night before the hike starts
• Inca Trail guided hike
• Full team – Head Guide, Assistant Guide, chef and porters (usually two porters per traveller)
• Specialist Inca Trail CEO (Chief Experience Officier)
• A guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Private transport between destinations
• All meals included. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea on day 2, dinner and a snack bag given at the beginning
• The train ride back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then a minibus back to Cusco
• Permit to hike the Inca Trail and entrance fee to Machu Picchu.

G Adventures Inca Trail – Day by Day

The 14-day tour I joined included everything on the 7-day Inca Trail tour. So I have broken down what each day looked like.

If you have more questions about hiking the Inca Trial, check out this post – The Inca Trail Trek – everything you need to know , which covers any questions you might have!

Day 1 – Cusco

Arrive in Cusco at any time. If you are arriving straight into Cusco, make sure to allow yourself a few days to acclimatise if you are coming from a low-altitude area.

Spend the day wandering around Cusco. In the evening, you will have a welcome meeting to meet the rest of the group. Spend the evening sorting out your duffel bag, and leave the rest of your luggage behind. Need help packing? Look at this post: What to pack for Peru: tried and tested list!

Day 2 – Ollantaytambo

As part of the tour I was on, it included an overnight stay in a homestay in Ccaccaccollo. In the morning, we visited a women’s Weaving Co-op. While the overnight stay is not part of this tour, you will still experience the G for Good moment. See local weaving and dyeing techniques used to create garments and souvenirs, and learn how the Planeterra weaving co-operative has impacted the community and those who visit it. 

Afterwards, you will head on to the rural village of Cuyo Chico in the Sacred Valley, a group of families joined together to create a small business based on their traditional adobe ceramic crafts. 

Finally, you will arrive in Ollantaytambo, a town with two groups of people—those who have hiked the Inca Trail and those who are about to. If you are feeling like you want to prepare, you can take a small 45-minute hike to the ruined Inca storehouses, which sit above the town—giving beautiful views down into the valley.

Day 3 – Inca Trail

The first day of the Inca Trail! An early start from Ollantaytambo. You will be picked up by minibus at around 7 am to drive the 45mins to KM82, where the Inca Trail begins. Meet the team of porters and get ready to start.

You pass the first checkpoint and set off around 9 am. Day 1 is considered the easy ‘training day’, with a little uphill. You pass a few smaller ruins along the way. Stop for lunch halfway and arrive at camp, usually between 3 and 4 pm. The porters have already set up your tents, and you will be greeted with a bowl of warm water to wash the day off.

Day 4 – Inca Trail

Woken up at 5.30 am by the porters and given a coca tea (which helps with the altitude) and another bowl of warm water. After a hearty breakfast, get ready to leave camp at 6.45 am. Today is the hardest day, with an ascent of 1,150m.

Take today slowly and at your own pace. The highest point is called Dead Woman’s Pass and summits at 4,200m. It is quite an altitude, so make sure to keep hydrated and stop at regular intervals.

You don’t stop for lunch on the trail. Instead, arrive at camp around 2 pm for lunch. It is a welcome meal after the morning! After lunch, you can wash and relax in camp. Some other tour groups decide to carry on in the afternoon, making this an incredibly long day. Personally, it was great to arrive and have some time to rest. You then will have an afternoon tea, before dinner at 6.30 pm and another early night.

Day 5 – Inca Trail

The final full day on the trail. Again, you are woken up at 5.30 am with warm water and a coca tea. Today is the longest distance you cover, approximately 16km. But after the initial uphill stretch, it is mainly downhill. It is 90% original Inca Trail, which means the steps are uneven – today can be a little tough on the knees!

This is also definitely the most interesting of the days, with plenty of ruins to stop and explore along the way. Lunch on this day is also amazing, an absolute feast followed by a treat I really wasn’t expecting!

Day 6 – Machu Picchu/Cusco

The earliest of starts! Woken up at 3 am to a very light breakfast. This is to allow the porters time to pack up camp and make it down to Aguas Calientes for the first train back to Ollantaytambo. You leave camp at 3.30 am and walk a few minutes to the checkpoint. Head torches are needed! Checkpoint opens at 5.30 am, and from there, it is about an hour and a half walk to the Sungate.

Stunning views along the way, and the excitement is really building before your first view of Machu Picchu from the Sungate. A view you only get by hiking the Inca Trail.

Afterwards, walk down to Machu Picchu and stop at a photo stop, which, again, you can only access if you have completed the trail. Then a guided tour of the site before getting the bus to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). You have a bit of time in the town, and some lunch, before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. The train has huge windows from which you can admire the beautiful scenery. It also has a bar that serves beer and champagne!

From Ollantaytambo, you can collect the belongings you didn’t take on the trail with you and then take a private minibus back to Cusco

Day 7 – Cusco

The final day of the tour, and you can depart at any time.

Final thoughts on hiking the Inca Trail with G Adventures

You will finish the tour with a mind teeming full of memories. But on top of that will be the feeling of comradery. Of being part of something and having achieved something so incredible as part of a group of friends. G Adventures are amazing at choosing team leaders who generate the feeling of closeness. If you are travelling solo, it is a wonderful feeling to share this experience with others.

Every convenience is thought of; every team member makes you feel so welcome, and I cannot recommend booking enough!

If you have questions that need answering on EVERYTHING Inca Trail, then make sure to check out this post: The Inca Trail trek – everything you need to know!

If you found this post helpful, please consider pinning it for later!

The Inca Trail trek – everything you need to know!

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G Adventures were a perfect choice - Inca Trail

• South America    
• Peru    
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• Machu Picchu - Things to Do    

G Adventures were a perfect choice

I have been wanting to walk the inca trail for a very long time but usually I don't enjoy being part of a tour group. As it is compulsory to be part of a group when on the trail I chose g adventures because it looked to be good value for money and a small group size. I was so happy that we went with this company. The level of service was mindblowing and I learnt so much about the inca culture from our passionate guide, Johan. I would have missed out on so much information if I were able to do the trail independently. Our group of 16 were fantastic company and we were accompanied by 23 porters and 2 cooks. The porters complete a superhuman job by basically running along the trail carrying 25kg each and making it to our next destination. When the group arrived at lunch or camp food would be cooked and an eating tent set up. We were greeted with cool drinks and individual washbasins to prepare for a meal. Lunch and dinner were 2-3 courses and always started with a delicious soup. Breakfast was served warm. On the third day at lunch our chefs made managed to freshly prepare a cake with icing - incredible! Every morning the porters wake you with hot cocoa leaf tea and a warmed wash basin. We were very spoilt. The company provides a thin foam mat for sleeping and offers for hire sleeping bags (US$10), inflatable mats (US$10) and hiking poles (US$6 each). The mat and bag are included in the baggage weigh the porters can carrying and take up about 3kg of the 6kg allowance, so packing light is necessary. My only complaint of the trip is that the mat shown to us in cusco prior to hiring the mats on the trail was not entirely representative and didn't do a great job of staying inflated - it was much better than sleeping on a foam mat though. Please hire/take 2 hiking poles - they help out so much especially on the long section of downhill of the second day. The trail itself is very manageable for anybody who is reasonably fit. Our group had two couples in their 60s and they managed fine by just taking it slowly. The first day is relatively easy and only involves a few hours of walking with a few uphill stretches. The second day is definitely the hardest with 4-5 hours of unrelenting uphill climbing at a high altitude - it is quite hard to catch your breath. This is followed for unrelenting downhill for about 2 hours - the walking poles will save your knees on this section. The third day is the most beautiful day - several ruins are visited and the scenery dramatically changes through the day from cloud forrest to jungle. It is a long day though with about 12 hours of walking. The final day is very exciting and involves a very early start to wait in a line until the trail opens at 5:30am. The walk is very pretty and is not particularly hard. I was expecting much worse when I heard about a section called 'the gringo killer'! This actually isn't too bad and involves a very steep section of stairs which is almost a vertical climb which, steep as it is, only lasts for a few minutes. The view from the sun gate is very rewarding and the opportunity to explore machu picchu is worth every step of the trail.

This actually was in September of 2005. Going to Machu Picchu was the dream of a lifetime, but I felt like I really wanted to "earn" the right to see it - so I hiked the trail with a Peruvian tour company - Peru Gateway Travel, I found on the internet (much more reasonable prices than American companies). I found the hike at 41 years of age difficult, probably one of the hardest I have ever done - but worth every step. Day 2 when we hiked to over 11,000 feet at the pass pictured here was done one step at a time. Day 3, after walking through rain forest was down many, many Inca stairs in the rain - scary, I arrived after dark at the campsite. I'm sure the journey wasn't as difficult for many of the young international tourists that frequent this site, but it made me feel like if I could do this, I could do anything. The tour company was fantastic and highly recommended too.

My friend and I did a 4 day/3 night hiking tour to Machu Picchu with Pachamama Explorers. Our tour guide was very friendly and shared a lot of great information. Not only was he amazing but our chef was extraordinaire as were all the porters (so very helpful and friendly). Pachamama Explorers also helped us setup hotels in Lima and Cusco and everything went well, no glitches. Our time in Peru was nothing short of magical and a big part was the outstanding service provided.I would HIGHLY recommend this company to help guide you around Peru. April from North Carolina, USA

If you are thinking about it, but not sure, I can tell you it was an awesome experience and worth every penny (and bead of sweat!). The G-Adventure team was the right choice for my daughter and I. They take care of you the moment you approach their desk at the Prisma Hotel in Cusco. We opted for our own connections to get to Cusco. This was neither right, nor wrong. You really have to be on the ball with the flight transfers between Lima and Cusco. Regardless of the airline you fly with, there are delays and cancellations. If time allows, I would suggest an extra day in Lima before your flight back to the rest of the world just in case you cannot get out of Cusco on time. We flew with StarPeru airlines and they were great. They had delayed flights both ways, but they managed to put us on earlier flights at the check-in counter, which really meant we got to the other end at the right times. We saw other airlines, twice the ticket price, with as many delays and cancellations however. We stayed overnight going in at SM Hotel in Lima. I will review it separately, it was a great choice. Cusco - We only had a half day at the start for this city. An extra day would be nice especially if you are a museum buff or like old architecture. The feel of the place is comfortable, and everything you could want is close by the downtown area. Lots of bank machines around, including Scotiabank for Canadians! We used the other bank machines and they were fine too, $5 charge per withdrawal, no big deal. Inca Trail 4 days with G-Adventure - Their hotel was the Prisma hotel. Nothing fancy, but functional, and in a good location near everything. It is noisy, but if you travel in Latin America, you know it will be. Lots of wood and tile, and thin windows to the street. Other than that, the place had character and the staff were excellent. "Their computer" internet is okay, but the keyboard is different and I never could get the @ symbol to appear for emails. The actual Inca trail tour and hike was awesome. The first day in the Sacred Valley was a nice addition to their tour and works to get you ready for the hiking. The end of the tour day of the Sacred Valley takes you to a hotel in Ollantatytambo (spell it how you want). This hotel may be different every time, but it is likely to be a basic room, no tv, some hot water maybe, but who cares, you are anxious for the next day, and you will be tired regardless. It was a clean hotel, and safe, and actually quite quiet! Inca Trail - You can read lots about the hiking. G-Adventures were great to us all. They have done this thousands of times. You can trust them to be looking out for your best interests and experience. Go with it. Enjoy the sights and the exertion. Anybody in reasonable shape should be fine. The best advice I can give anybody is ' don't get sick before you start out'. If you think you might be getting an upset stomach and the runs, then take Pepto and Immodium just to be safe. Hell, take Cipro antibiotics too. You don't want the discomfort and dehydration of being ill on the trail. There was some of this in our group and they suffered. Take knee suppports, even cheapo tensor bandages. My 49 year old knees needed them, as did others. The hardest part on your body will be going down steps (they go on forever at times). The elevation did not bother anybody too much in our group of 13. Steps down, that is the hardest. Take tensor bandages to wrap you knees, you can always lend them out if you don't use them yourself! They, the locals, sell Cervesa's both nite 1 and near the summit on day 2. Go ahead and treat yourself, we did. Nothing like sitting at camp at the end of the day toasting each other with a cold beer! 7 or 8 Sol each, cheap!! I will not tell you about the sights, you can google that. I hike in the Canadian rockies, lived there for a few years too. I was impressed with the Andes from the Inca trail, and Machu Picchu is something to behold! You can do it. Favorite part - Seeing Machu Picchu with my daughter beside me! Next favorite - Aguas Calientas - after Machu Picchu. This Peruvian town is a gem, look for you-tube videos on it. It is where you get the train back to civilization. Fantasic place. Thanks Lisa for inviting me along, a life memory for sure!

We felt too old and not being campers, opted for the Km104 last day hike in - we had the trail to ourselves : took us (generally fit 60/65) 6 hours including stops as required. And is certainly the way to arrive at MP - both from the Sun Gate : but also because many day visitors are beginning to leave MP by then, so it's quieter.

One of the perks of staying overnight is the ability to experience all the other hikes Machu Picchu has to offer. This one is easy and the view back to Machu Picchu is incredible

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

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Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

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Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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Inca Discovery

8 days, lima to cusco.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

Perfect for those looking to experience the region’s archaeological and cultural treasures in a short amount of time, this adventure includes a four-day trek along the Inca Trail. This is one of the world’s best-known hikes and will reward those willing to break a sweat with a stunning combination of mountainscapes, cloud forests, and jungles. We run our own treks, which ensures the fair treatment of our porters and quality equipment.

Lima to Cusco

Special offers, award winning inca trail program.

Named Best Inca Trail Tour Operator by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco (RDFTTC) in Peru. Your purchase of this tour helps employ over 560 local guides, porters, cooks, drivers, and office staff — connecting local communities to the global tourism chain. Learn more .

Is this tour for me?

Travel style: active.

Hiking, trekking, biking, rafting, and kayaking adventures all over the world, made for outdoor types.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 4 - Demanding

Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 12

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world — with trees! Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 8

Ripple Score

Want to create ripples that change lives? The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 83

More from Inca Discovery

Places visited

• Machu Picchu

Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Lima/Cusco

Hop on a flight to Cusco. Enjoy a free day of shopping and exploring the city. Choose to pre-book the Cusco Cooking Class. Opt for a city tour.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 3 cusco/ollantaytambo.

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery making community. Break for lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins. Or, wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar).

Day 4 Inca Trail

Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins.

Day 5 Inca Trail

Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.

Day 6 Inca Trail

Cross two more passes and ruins on today's trek. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

Day 7 Machu Picchu/Cusco

The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down for a guided tour of the ruins, before your train back towards Cusco.

Day 8 Cusco

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit, Ccaccaccollo
• Your G for Good Moment: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay
• Your G for Good Moment: Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products
• Your Discover Moment: Cusco
• Sacred Valley guided tour
• Pottery making demonstration
• Inca Trail guided hike with cooks and porters (4 days)
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Internal flight
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (4 nts), camping (3 nts).

7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Allow USD140-185 for meals not included.

Transportation

Plane, train, private van, hiking.

Staff & experts

G Representatives in Lima and Cusco, specialist Inca Trail CEO (Chief Experience Officer) on hike.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Cusco cooking class - from $46.00.

Channel your inner chef and get a taste of Peruvian cuisine. Learn all about the essential ingredients, and try your hand at preparing unique Peruvian dishes with a local expert

Lima Cooking Class (4hrs) - From $79.00

Get a taste of Peruvian cuisine, visit local markets, sample exotic fruit, select fresh ingredients, and try your hand at preparing unique Peruvian dishes influenced by China, Italy, West Africa, and Japan.

My Own Room - From $219.00

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

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• Owner's WhatsApp: +51 947 824774

Inca Trail Hikes Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Things to know about hiking the inca trail.

Hiking and walking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru is one of the most special vacations in the world. You can walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2, 4, 5 or 7 day tours, which include all or part of the famous Classic Inca Trail Trek. These tours start in the Sacred Valley outside of Cusco, Peru, and end at the mystical Sun Gate entrance to Machu Picchu. Inca Trail Permits are required in order to hike or walk any part of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and only licensed Inca Trail tour companies can get these permits from the Peru government.

Visitors that walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will be hiking on the actual ancient Inca Trail footpath, carved out of the mountains centuries ago by the Inca people. These treks are multi-day hikes with camping or a mix of other lodging for the overnight stays.

The most popular way to walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the 4 Day Classic Inca Trail group or private tour. The second most popular way is the Short Inca Trail 2 day Tour . There are also longer options for hikers who want to take more time on the Inca Trail, with the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 day tour , and those who want to combine the 2 most popular treks in Peru – the Salkantay and the Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu in 7 days. Another incredibly popular option is to add the famous one day hike to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley , to any Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Want to know more? See this handy Guide to Hiking to Machu Picchu .

Inca Trail Permits

The Inca Trail Permit System was created by the Peruvian government to help prevent serious overcrowding, overuse, and erosion on the historic Inca Trail. A limited number of total permits are available each day to hike the Inca Trail.

How Inca Trail Permits Work

Inca Trail Availability & Reservations - Find Out If Permits Are Available For Your Ideal Dates

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu requires an Inca Trail reservation via a special Inca Trail Permit that only licensed Inca Trail tour operators in Peru can secure for trekkers . A limited number of permits are released for each day of the year for hiking on the Inca Trail. The trail is open year round except for February. Check the Inca Trail Availability Calendars below to see if permits are available for the dates you want to hike to Machu Picchu. Popular  trekking months can sell out up to 6 months in advance. To learn more about Permits, read this handy guide Inca Trail Permits – How They Work and Why You Need Them.

SEE INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY CALENDARS

Inca trail faqs - see the top questions and answers about hiking the inca trail, 1. how to get to cusco, peru.

Most people will get to Cusco by air. Please remember that the Cusco airport is for domestic travel only. If you come directly from overseas through Lima, you must get your bags in Lima and re-check them for your flight to Cusco. Four airline carriers fly roundtrip between Lima and Cusco. That includes LATAM Airlines, AVIANCA Airlines, Star Peru, and Peruvian Airlines. They all offer similar schedules and in-flight service, but we usually recommend either LATAM airlines or AVIANCA. They tend to be the most helpful when unexpected flight cancellations or delays occur.

2. Does the Inca Trail go to Machu Picchu?

Yes, it is the ancient footpath of the Incas that goes from the  Sacred Valley  directly to Machu Picchu. It was created specifically for the Inca people to  travel to  Machu Picchu .

3. What is the best peak to hike for the amazing views of Machu Picchu?

There are three ways to get above Machu Picchu for those amazing pictures you see in books: the Sun Gate, Huaynapicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain (montaña). The Sun Gate is free for everyone to visit and takes about an hour from the bottom of the ruins to the lookout point. This is also where all Inca Trail trekkers enter to see Machu Picchu for the first time. The views are lovely from the gate, but not as high and a bit further than the other two options.

4. What is the difference between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?

Both Huaynapicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are permit restricted hikes that must be done within a certain time. These permits/tickets will be secured by Alpaca Expeditions, but do need to be arranged a few months in advance of your trip. Both offer amazing views of Machu Picchu from viewpoints directly above. Machu Picchu takes about 3 hours to the top and is spectacular on a lovely day, but views are often restricted by clouds. Huaynapicchu takes 45 minutes to the top and is definitely the most popular of the three options. All views are amazing.  Click here to watch a short video showing the difference between Machu Picchu mountain and Huaynapicchu .

5. How do I book an Inca Trail trek?

You can only book an Inca Trail Trek with a tour operator licensed to operate tours on the Inca Trail in Peru. The tour operator will reserve your trek dates and will secure the Inca Trail Permits necessary to hike on the Inca Trail. You first fill out a booking form that includes all details for you, and for any travelers going with you if you have a group. You will pay a $200 deposit per person. The deposits can be paid separately, as long as we have one booking form that we can use to track payments. Once we have all deposits and details, we will then book your permits. When permits are in our hands, we will send you your invoice and confirmation that everything is 100% set. All start dates, once confirmed, are guaranteed.  We try to make booking as easy as possible at Alpaca Expeditions .

6. Can I stay in the Sacred Valley, Peru instead of in Cusco?

Ollantaytambo is the best place to stay other than Cusco. At 9,160 feet, it is a great option for acclimatizing to elevation, compared to Cusco at 11,152 feet. Also by staying in Ollantaytambo you get a little more sleep, as we will pick you up about 1.5 hours after the Cusco pick up time. You can only have your briefing in Cusco. So please arrange a time that works for you and our office team with your Alpaca Expeditions sales rep.

7. Can I spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes, Peru?

Of course, if you are ok with taking the same train out of Aguas Calientes that is part of your original itinerary, which is typically at 4:22 that evening, then there is no additional charge to move the train back a day. If you need us to secure your hotel or another visit to Machu Picchu, this will be an additional cost. If you do choose to spend one more night in Aguas Calientes (the town at the entrance of Machu Picchu), make sure you tell the Alpaca Expeditions office at least one month in advance, so your train ticket is purchased for the right day.

8. What is Huayna Picchu Mountain and where is it?

The Huayna Picchu Mountain is that gorgeous, picturesque mountain peak that is tucked up against the Machu Picchu ruins in all the best photos and postcards. Once you get to Machu Picchu, you have the opportunity to go beyond the basic tour of the Machu PIcchu ruins and also hike up the Huayna Picchu Mountain, next to the ruins. This hike will give you breathtaking views of the forests and valleys surrounding this ancient site as well as an aerial view of Machu Picchu ruins that is spectacular and cannot be seen any other way.

9. What is the Huayna Picchu hike?

The Huayna Picchu hike is climbing up a steep, long set of stone steps carved into the mountain side. The Huayna Picchu Mountain is 2700 meters/ 8858 feet. There is a cable to hold onto as you climb up the steps. The hike up Huayna Picchu is a truly challenging climb, and you’ll have 2 hours to do it. Permits are required and climbing times are specified on your ticket. You want to add on a ticket to climb Huayna Picchu when you reserved your trip to Machu Picchu, or as soon as you know you want to climb it. IT’s a very popular climb and tickets do sell out.  Learn more about hiking up Huayna Picchu Mountain, also called Wayna Picchu .

10. Do I need a tour operator or a guide for the Inca Trail?

Yes! It is now illegal to hike the Inca Trail without an operator and has been like that since 2000. In order to hike, you need a permit, which only licensed operators can get – so you need to be specific. Other trails in the Andes can be done without a guide, but the Inca Trail can only be done with a licensed guide from a licensed tour operator. Learn more about  why Permits and Guides are required on the Inca Trail and how the Inca Trail Permit System works .

11. How long does the trek to Machu Picchu take?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has a multitude of trekking paths. On the other hand, it takes 3 to 5 days to complete the Classic Inca Trail path and, on average, 4 days and 3 nights to go to Machu Picchu. There is a quicker way to get to Machu Picchu if you’re pressed for time. The trailhead for this walk is at Kilometer 104, and it only takes one day to hike to Machu Picchu.

12. What is the difference between the short Inca Trail treks and classic Inca Trail treks?

The short, 2-Day treks on the Inca Trail are very different from 4-7 day trips, which we consider our classic full treks.

On the 2 day trip, you will have one day of hiking and one day at Machu Picchu. For your overnight stay, you can either enjoy comfortable hotel accommodations or sleep under the stars at a private campsite at the foot of Machu Picchu. Porters are not included, so you will also be carrying all of your own items for this trip. This trip is a great option for those who want to witness breathtaking sights of the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu and Inca Trail, but may not have enough time for the classic trek. It’s also a great choice for beginner hikers or families with younger children.

Our 4-day, 5-day and 7-day Inca Trail tours cover much more ground and expose you to more experiences on the Inca Trail. As you trek and camp, you’ll pass multiple archeological sites and unforgettable mountain views as you make your way to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. Our longer tours include several gourmet meals on the trail, porters to help carry bags, and comfortable private campsites. This tour is perfect for visitors looking for a challenge and an in-depth experience in the Andes.

See all 50+ Inca Trail FAQs

Inca Trail Magazine - See what the Inca Trail hiking tour looks like virtually!

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Inca Trail Map - Elevations, Landmarks, Campsites, Altitude Profile & More

See where the Inca Trail is in Peru, and trace your hiking route to Machu Picchu with these useful Inca Trail Maps.

EXPLORE INCA TRAIL MAPS

1. inca trail ancient map.

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4. Inca Trail Elevation Profile Hiking Map

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Awards , Recognized as the Best Travel Agency in Peru

Trekkers Blogs The best way to understand the experience of traveling with Alpaca is reading and watching what others have experienced with us.

More than 2K trips made safely with our Satellite Phones

Cooking classes are on all our camping treks . Learn to cook traditional, delicious dishes in open air classroom of the magical Andes mountains!

Inca Trail (Classic) 4D/3N Group Tour

Inca Trail 4D/3N Private Tour

Machu Picchu Inca Trail 5D/4N

Short Inca Trail trek with Camping 2D/1N

2-Day Short Inca Trail Trek with Hotel

Salkantay Trek + Inca Trail 7D/6N

Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day & Inca Trail 2D/1N & Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day & Inca Trail Hike 2D/1N

Inca Trail Hike 2D/1N & Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Inca Trail Hike 4D/3N & Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Sacred Valley & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 7D/6N

Salkantay Trek Peru – 6D/5N

Check 4, 5 & 7 day inca trail availability, get in touch, alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

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Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

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G adventures inca trail review: why it’s worth it.

The legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tops many people’s bucket lists. The beautifully preserved 550-year-old ruin site in the clouds is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a wonderful pay-off for several days of trekking. We had high expectations for our tour with G Adventures , and we were not disappointed. In this article we give our honest G Adventures Inca Trail review, explaining why we chose them, why it was an unforgettable experience, and everything you need to know about booking yours.

This article is not sponsored: we took the Inca Trail with G Adventures at our own cost, and we always give honest recommendations. If you make a booking after clicking an affiliate link in this article, we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In this article:

Why we chose G Adventures for the Inca Trail

When Lisa and I started planning a one-year travel career break together, we wrote down a wishlist of the things we most wanted to experience. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu had been a lifetime ambition for both of us, and so it was the first thing on our list.

We usually try to find low-cost or self-guided options for travel activities. But we didn’t want to do that with the Inca Trail. We saw it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so we wanted to make sure it would be a memory to cherish, and that we wouldn’t come away with any regrets. If that meant spending a little bit extra, we felt it would be worth it.

So we spent a lot of time looking into the various tour companies that operate the Inca Trail (of which there are many). After sifting through countless reviews and double-checking all of the fine print, we converged on G Adventures .

Although they were slightly more expensive than some of the tour operators (but not extortionate by any means), there were some stand-out factors that drew us to G Adventures. Some of these were deal-breakers. Let me explain…

Confidence for first-timers

Lisa and I had very little trekking experience before taking on the Inca Trail, and we had never been to such a high altitude (the highest point is 4,200 metres). Although we did all of the necessary training, the lack of experience still made us anxious about our ability to complete it.

The Inca Trail was our first ever multi-day trek. We needed to feel confident that we would be well looked after, and that our guides would be understanding and reassuring if we struggled with the pace. Every single review we read for G Adventures was exemplary in this regard.

It turned out that our team of guides, porters and chefs far exceeded our expectations. From the briefing meeting before the tour started to the final steps down to Machu Picchu, they were positive, encouraging, and a pleasure to be around.

Any nerves and anxiety we had disappeared once we were introduced to the guides and the tour group, and from then on we always felt that we could do it! And we did.

High ethical standards

We didn’t want to go with a tour company that cuts corners when it comes to looking after local workers and communities. We’d heard stories that porters in particular on the Inca Trail could be poorly treated and underpaid.

G Adventures employs over 560 local people, and was named as the Best Inca Trail Operator by the regional tourism board in Cusco, with an emphasis on ethical practices. Its porters, chefs, drivers and office staff are fairly paid and well equipped.

We could see on the trail that the G Adventures local staff were treated well. First of all, they clearly enjoyed the work and were proud to be part of the company. One of the young porters was training to be a guide, and wanted to work for G Adventures for life. All of our crew were kitted out with good trekking gear, which was not always the case when we saw other tour groups.

We also loved that the tour package included visits to local initiatives such as a women’s weaving cooperative, a pottery craft and a Parwa community restaurant. There was clearly a lot of thought and effort given to supporting worthwhile local community causes.

Reasonable pricing

We thought that G Adventures offered great value for money with their Inca Trail packages. We paid £799 / $1,050 each for our 7-day tour , which may have risen a little now due to inflation. It’s possible to find cheaper tour operators, but you won’t save a lot of money going elsewhere, and that little extra really goes a long way, as I have outlined above.

This price covers everything, including transport, accommodation, tents, catering, staff, and the permit for visiting Machu Picchu. With some of the cheaper operators, you have to sort your own permits and pay for them separately.

We were happy to pay a bit extra to have all of this taken care of, and to feel assured we would be in the capable hands of a great team that was being fairly treated.

What to know before you go

For everything you need to know about preparations for the Inca Trail, check out our complete guide for first-timers . These are the essentials to keep in mind:

• It’s best to arrive in Cusco at least a couple of days before beginning the Inca Trail. The city stands at 3,400 metres elevation, which is just right for getting acclimatised to the altitude on the trek.
• It’s a good idea to get your accommodation booked early for your time in Cusco before and after the tour, as the best places get booked in advance during high season. See our guide to the best hostels in Cusco for great value-for-money options.
• If you go with G Adventures, make sure you attend the briefing meeting on the first evening. It will answer any uncertainties you may have, and it’s a great opportunity to get to know your group and the staff team.
• Once you are on the trail, there are no ATMs . G Adventures provides all your meals and water refills, but if you want to buy any extra snacks or run out of water, you will need some cash.
• The snacks and drinks sold on the trail come at a heavily marked-up price. It’s a good idea to stock up before you go , and pack some light trekking snacks and a couple of energy drinks.
• The Inca Trail is a challenging trek, especially if you’re new to it. Make the effort to do some training beforehand and you’ll be fine. We explain how you can do this in the guide linked above. Bear in mind that the Inca Trail involves a lot of stairs – this will be a lot easier to tackle if you practice walking up and down stairs for a few weeks beforehand.
• The trail involves some long days of hiking, and the weather conditions can be volatile. This means you will need durable hiking gear , in particular walking boots and a decent waterproof jacket. It’s also a good idea to bring walking poles and your own sleeping bag, although you can hire them from G Adventures if needed. Check out our complete Inca Trail packing list for everything you need to take.
• Finally, consider bringing some extra money to tip the team of porters and chefs who will be looking after you on the trail. The recommended amount is 50 US dollars.

G Adventures Inca Trail review: our experience

We did the 7-day Inca Trail package with G Adventures. You can find the full details of the itinerary and make a booking here . But first, let me tell you a bit about our own experience on the tour, and why we would recommend it to anybody planning to hike the Inca Trail.

Day 1: arrival and briefing

The first day of our tour had a relaxed vibe, and was all about preparations for the days of trekking ahead and getting to know our group. At this point we had actually already been in Cusco for a couple of days to acclimatise to the altitude.

We checked into our Cusco hotel for the night (included in the package) and met our tour guide, Ray, for the first time. We instantly felt reassured that we were in good hands. He smiled, introduced himself, told us not to worry and gave us instructions when the briefing meeting would take place later in the day.

We arrived early and eager, but still a bit nervous about it all. Luckily a group of cheerful Canadians were already there, filling the room with positive energy – we were pleased to find they were going to be in our trekking team!

Kicking off the meeting, Ray told us that our group would be called the ‘Inca Warriors’. There were 14 of us in total, which we thought was the perfect group size; not too big, but plenty enough to foster some team camaraderie. Everyone got on straight away, and we knew we there wouldn’t be any problems if anyone were to struggle on the trek.

The rest of the meeting answered all of our concerns and questions. We learnt all about the trail, what to expect each day, and how we could combat issues with altitude. A second team guide would stay at the back of the group and look after anyone who needed to take it slowly.

With our nerves replaced by excitement and positivity, we grabbed some food and a drink with the team before buying a few last-minute snacks and packing our bags.

Day 2: Sacred Valley tour

The first full day began bright and early. We climbed into a van and headed out towards the Sacred Valley, with a short stop at the Cristo Blanco statue (Cusco’s version of Christ the Redeemer) for an awesome panoramic view of the city.

Throughout the morning we had the unique opportunity to spend time with valley communities and learn about their way of life. We were warmly welcomed at a women’s weaving cooperative, where we discovered the secrets of their craft, before having lunch at a Parwa community restaurant supported by the tour.

In the afternoon, we had our first glimpse at some Inca ruins. At the Pisac ruin site we had time to explore the centuries-old remains of a sophisticated citadel, perched high on top of a hill with breathtaking views across the Sacred Valley.

From Pisac we drove on to Ollantaytambo, our resting place for the night, and checked into our hotel before exploring more beautiful ruin sites (the town was once an important Inca administrative centre).

To cap off the day, we sat down for a team meal and a cool Peruvian beer in a rustic local restaurant on the town’s main square. The next day the real challenge would begin, and we were ready for it.

Day 3: the trail begins: Inca ruins and Andean scenery

At daybreak we enjoyed a hearty breakfast (much-needed fuel for a day of hiking) and set off again in the van. From Ollantaytambo it took about an hour to drive to the trail’s starting point. Passing through the gates and onto the official trail made it feel real – we were actually doing it!

This was the first full day of hiking, and it was the perfect gentle introduction. We knew from the briefing that the second and third days would be the toughest, so we were pleased to be eased into it. The path meandered along gurgling streams, past Inca ruin sites and through beautiful mountain scenery. By mid-afternoon we had covered around 11 kilometres, and that was it for the day.

Perhaps the most eye-opening thing about this first hiking day, however, was seeing our amazing team of porters in action. Our team of 14 trekkers was supported by a 25-strong unit of guides, chefs and porters.

Each of the porters carried 25 kilograms on their back, all to make it easier for us – it meant we had only a very light weight to carry. They set up camp for every meal, cheered us as we arrived, prepared our food, washed up after us, packed down the camp afterwards, and then lugged all the gear on to the next point at rapid pace. Incredibly, the oldest porter in our team was 65 years old.

Day 4: Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point

The second day of trekking involved the toughest and steepest ascent. We set off before sunrise to trek up the long path to Warmiwañusca, which is the highest point on the Inca Trail at 4,200 metres. It’s also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, as its shape on the horizon resembles a dead woman lying on her back.

Reaching the summit took a huge effort and felt like a big achievement. Ray made sure we had regular stops and kept ourselves hydrated to stave off altitude sickness. Although only a couple of people in our group were experienced hikers, every single one of us made it. The view back down into the valley from the top was stunning.

We arrived at camp by 2pm, which gave us plenty of time to rest, refuel and rock out a pack of cards for some games. Those pre-hike nerves were long gone; we were loving every minute of it.

That night, the sun set early; we were in darkness by 6pm. Out in the wilderness, many miles away from any light pollution, the stars shone brilliantly like a glittering blanket in the sky. Sheer perfection.

Day 5: Hiking above the clouds

As we embarked on the third day of hiking, some of those nerves returned. We knew that there was a steep descent ahead and a lot of downhill stairs, a passage of the trail we’d heard referred to as the ‘Gringo Killer’. True to form, though, our guides kept us reassured and made sure we were setting a comfortable pace.

Before the big descent we encountered more ruin sites, and emerged into some sprawling landscapes as we trekked over two high passes. As we trudged along stony paths surrounded by dense flowering vegetation, clouds descended around us. It was enchanting, almost surreal.

That night would be our last in a tent on the trail, and so our final gathering with the amazing team of porters. After we arrived at the midday camp, they presented us with a huge cake, freshly baked, and inscribed with ‘Welcome to Machu Picchu’ in icing. What a lovely touch.

Day 6: descending to Machu Picchu at sunrise

On the final trekking day we had the earliest start of all, rising at around 4am. Nobody minded, as this was the moment we’d been waiting for. Only a short final hike of around 4 kilometres separated us from Machu Picchu.

It only took about an hour, but it felt like an age as our anticipation built. The view that awaited us was even more mesmerising than we had imagined. Everyone has seen the pictures of Machu Picchu, but they do not do it justice. We’ll never forget the sight of those legendary ruins emerging into view as we descended from the Sun Gate.

Once we’d had some time to process the moment and take our photos, Ray showed us around the site and enlightened us about the site’s construction and purpose. There were smiles all around, and relief that we were done with hiking. At least we thought we were…

It turned out that on the day we arrived at Machu Picchu, teacher strikes had been taking place around the country, and the train service between Cusco and Machu Picchu was cancelled . On the positive side, it meant the site was a lot more quiet than usual. But it also meant that we were stranded.

This was obviously a situation that was out of the control of the G Adventures tour guides. What mattered was how they handled the situation. They did so flawlessly.

Ray had known about the situation before we arrived at Machu Picchu, but he chose not to tell us until after we’d seen the site. This was the right decision. He didn’t want the special moment to be tarnished by worrying.

Once we were done exploring the site, he gathered us together and broke the news. It meant we would have to hike another 10 kilometres along a train track to a nearby town, from where we could take a bus back to Cusco. We’d developed a great team bond by this point, and although we were all tired, everyone looked at it positively. It meant we got to spend a few more hours together! We sat down for a big celebratory lunch, before setting off on one last hike.

A few days later, we were all given a 50 GBP refund for missing out on the train ride, a gesture that we thoroughly appreciated given that it was not the fault of G Adventures.

Day 7: Departure

The next morning, weary after a late arrival in Cusco, we all met once again in our hotel lobby for one last team breakfast. It was a huge, delicious buffet, and everyone took advantage. We said our final farewells to Ray, who dropped by to see us.

That night we met for more food and drinks with the Inca Warriors who were still around in Cusco. We were exhausted, but thoroughly satisfied. The Inca Trail had lived up to our expectations, and so much more besides. And we had made friendships to last for a lifetime.

Our takeaways from the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail with G Adventures gave us one of the most special memories of our lives. Not only this, but it sparked a new passion for hiking. Since the trail, we’ve done a lot more around the world, including famous multi-day hikes such as the W Trek in Patagonia .

The tour also demonstrated to us the importance of having a great guide. We had that 100% with Ray and the rest of the team looking after us. A few days later, when we trekked the Colca Canyon in Peru, we found out how badly it can affect an experience if you don’t have a good guide. We’re very grateful that we were so well looked after on the Inca Trail.

The ‘G’ in G Adventures stands for ‘Gap’. As Career Gappers we believe in the value of taking time out of work to travel, and so their message resonates strongly with us. We love what they do, and we’ll be using their services for a long time to come.

How to book your Inca Trail tour

Booking your Inca Trail tour with G Adventures is easy. Simply head over to their website , choose the package that suits you, and follow the instructions. They will take care of the rest, and if there’s anything you’re unsure about, their friendly team will be more than happy to help.

Insurance for the Inca Trail

It’s very unlikely you will come to any harm on the Inca Trail, but investing in insurance gives you the peace of mind to know you’re covered if something does go wrong.

As the classic Inca Trail reaches an altitude of over 4,000 metres, it’s not usually covered by standard travel insurance policies. When looking for the right insurance package, you will need to bear in mind that the policy will need to include hiking to 4,200 metres.

We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for insuring your Inca Trail experience. These guys started out as special insurers for long-term travel and digital nomads, but have also expanded to offer insurance for dates with specific trips. Whichever you choose, it’s great value.

The sports and activities covered by SafetyWing includes hiking up to 4,500 metres, so you’re good for the Inca Trail! Check out their insurance pricing tool to see what the cost would be for your trip.

More ideas for your Peru itinerary

If you’re planning on spending more time in Peru, read our suggested 28-day itinerary and our Peru trekking guide for some inspiration. Also check out our article on things to do in Cusco for activities before and after the Inca Trail.

For more popular G Adventures experiences in the country, see our guide to small group tours in Peru .

Here are some more of our articles on Peru:

• How much does a Peru trip cost? Here’s what we spent
• Lima in 2 days: the perfect itinerary for backpackers
• Visiting Iquitos: the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon
• 24 hours in Huacachina: the Peruvian desert oasis
• Flying over the Nazca Lines: a complete guide
• Discovering Peru on a budget: the legendary local menú restaurants

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Alex trembath.

Alex is the co-founder and chief blogger at Career Gappers. He has travelled to over 50 countries and is a passionate advocate for taking career breaks.

4 thoughts on “ G Adventures Inca Trail review: why it’s worth it ”

I really enjoyed reading all about your adventure. We have reserved this trip with G Adventures for December (we postponed last year due to the pandemic). I was excited about the trip but after reading your first hand account, I’m even more excited! Thanks for that! I’m going to look at your packing list, this is the one thing that I’m most wondering about at the moment. Also, several of us will stay extra days to visit Rainbow Mountain and Lake Titicaca. If you have any tips or suggestions for us, we would welcome them.

Hi Sarah, thank you for your comment. That’s great to hear you’re doing the trail with G – it will be an incredible experience if it’s anything like ours was! For Rainbow Mountain, are you going on a day trip? It’s usually a very early start (sometimes as early as 2am/3am pickup), so make sure you’re well rested the night before. Rainbow Mountain is also at a much higher altitude than you will reach on the Inca Trail, so take it steady, bring plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated etc. It’s good that you will be doing it after the trail, as that will give you time to acclimatise.

I assume you will be going to Lake Titicaca on the Peru side in Puno, not the Bolivia side? We did both, but we spent a bit more time on the Bolivia side. If you have time though, you could take a day trip to Islas Uros, the floating islands on the lake made entirely from reeds. Hope you have a great time whatever you decide to do!

I hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It was the most incredible experience. I’ve never been on a tour that was so well organized. I am 69 years old and with the help of the assistant guide Jhon Chales I was able to complete the task. He was a wonderful guide, and so helpful

Wow Yvonne, that is fantastic to hear! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Jhon sounds like the perfect guide.

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New Intrepid Peru Trek

Intrepid to become the first global tour operator to bring travellers along a new remote section of the Inca Trail.

Intrepid Travel , the world’s largest B-Corp-certified travel company, is debuting a new  12-day trek of the Great Inca Road.  The new tour, which will depart for the first time in June 2023, will offer an alternative to the popular Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and presents an opportunity to develop an entirely new trekking region in Peru. The trail, which starts in Huaraz, is nearly 1,000 miles from Ollantaytambo where the famous Inca Trail embarks. This new section of the trail will bring the benefits of tourism to new communities and help with the ecological, historical and cultural preservation of one of the most important routes along the ancient Inca Trail.   

Intrepid, which worked to scout and preserve the new path in partnership with fellow B Corp SA Expeditions, will become the first global tour operator to bring travellers along this section of the 25,000-mile ancient highway. Gary Cohen, Intrepid’s General Manager of Latin America, took part in one of the first scouting trips within the region during the early developmental stages of the project. “We are so excited to share this spectacular Great Inca Road trek with the world,” says Cohen. “The future of Peru tourism is truly in these trails, and without sustainable development, they will be lost forever,” he adds. 

Intrepid’s new  12-day Peru Expedition: Trek the Great Inca Road  starts at $4,360 USD per person and includes guided hikes, accommodations, 11 breakfasts, five lunches and four dinners. Other highlights includes: 

Joining a local leader and traditional llama caravan to hike storied paths that few travellers have ever seen 

Visiting well-preserved yet remote Inca outposts 

Exploring the Caral-Supe archaeological site, left behind by a civilisation pre-dating the Inca and built at the same time as the first Egyptian pyramids 

Meeting with a master weaver to learn about his work and life on the Great Inca Road, where his family has lived for generations 

This new trip from Intrepid is an example of the company’s ongoing commitment to growing its style of sustainable, experience-rich travel, as its product team continues to create new and more responsible ways to explore a destination. During the pandemic, the Peruvian government announced they would reduce the number of trekking permits offered for the popular Inca Trail to help protect and preserve the region and its famous ruins. Today, only 500 trekking permits for the traditional trail are offered per day, which includes porters and other tourism workers. The development of alternative trekking routes in the Andes, such as the Inca Trail Road, helps to drive tourism to new communities while reducing the strain on the environment. 

“As a Quechua descendant and trekking adventure guide, I’ve always dreamed of walking some of Qhapaq Nañ [also known as the Main Inca Road],” says Martiza Chacacanta, Intrepid’s Deputy Operations Manager in Peru. “Walking alongside llamas, considered sacred by the Incas, and resting in tambos where my ancestors would have slept, made me feel privileged, blessed and proud of my culture. Over the last few months, we have been eager to welcome travelers back to our country. Tourism plays such a vital role for our economy and impacts so many people's lives. Now, as travellers return, I am so excited to show the world the Great Inca Road and help preserve it for future generations.” she adds. 

For more information about Intrepid’s new Trek the Great Inca Road trip, or to book, visit:  https://www.intrepidtravel.com/peru/trek-great-inca-road-145758 . 

Photos can be downloaded  here   with credit to Intrepid Travel. 

Deals of the Week   Solo is the new black   Up to 50% OFF

Inca Discovery

• Fully Guided
• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Explore the Sacred Valley
• Hike the Inca Trail
• See the sunrise over Machu Picchu
• Discover the streets of Lima

• Introduction
• Day 2 Lima/Cusco (1B)
• Day 3 Cusco/Ollantaytambo (1B, 1L)
• Day 4 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
• Day 5 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
• Day 6 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
• Day 7 Machu Picchu/Cusco (1B)
• Day 8 Cusco (1B)

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by G Adventures

G Adventures gives you the opportunity to explore interesting and unusual places at a great price. The G Adventures reviews show high ratings from satisfied customers for all aspects of the trip, so you can be assured that you will be in good hands. If you have any questions at any time during your trip, 24 hour support is offered, so there will always be someone to answer your queries. There are various styles of trip on offer to cater for different tastes, along with a wide range of destinations and departure dates. If you look at the G Adventures reviews you will see that you can travel far and wide, with enthusiastic and helpful guides to assist you during your trip.

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A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Excellent 4.5
• Guide Excellent 4.6
• Transport Excellent 4.6
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Excellent 4.4
• Tour Operator G Adventures 4.8
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• L Lor · 27th April 2024 15day National Geographic Inca Explorer The tour had an excellent itinerary and activities, giving a broad overview of Peru - we loved it. Accommodations (with one exception) were great, and all had an included breakfast buffet. The tour's included... Show more Trip date: March 2024

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
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• December 2025
• Monday 13 May, 2024 Monday 20 May, 2024 English Sold Out €1,659 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• -20% Tuesday 14 May, 2024 Tuesday 21 May, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• Wednesday 15 May, 2024 Wednesday 22 May, 2024 English Sold Out €1,659 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• -20% Thursday 16 May, 2024 Thursday 23 May, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• -20% Friday 17 May, 2024 Friday 24 May, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• -20% Saturday 18 May, 2024 Saturday 25 May, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• -20% Monday 20 May, 2024 Monday 27 May, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• -20% Wednesday 22 May, 2024 Wednesday 29 May, 2024 English Almost Sold Out €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• -20% Thursday 23 May, 2024 Thursday 30 May, 2024 English Filling Fast €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates
• -20% Friday 24 May, 2024 Friday 31 May, 2024 English €1,659 €1,327 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

The tents are provided, but you are recommended to bring a small thermal sleeping mat and a sleeping bag. However, these can be rented to you on request with G Adventures at a cost of 45 soles each per item if you don't want to carry them for the rest of your travels.

Yes, you will have the opportunity to walk around the ruins.

As far as solo travellers go, G Adventures can pair you up with another solo traveller of the same gender at no extra cost! If you are interested in a private room, let us know and we can get in touch with G Adventures for the single supplement cost.

A trip note will be given, which contains essential information about your trip - the daily itinerary, where to meet on the first day, what time the trip starts, how to get to the joining point hotel, included activities, visa information, etc. Please contact us for this.

There is only a minimum age requirement to travel on this tour but no maximum age limit. Please note that the physical rating for this is high- Physical Rating: Demanding Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers. Of course it depends on how you feel about this personally but age is just a number and it's up to you if you feel fit enough to travel on this tour.

G Adventures classifies this is an Active tour with a demanding physical rating.

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Good to Know

• Currency S/. Sol Peru

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F. As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Recommended for Peru. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 23rd June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 23rd June 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with G Adventures. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 45 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and G Adventures will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "G Adventures" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of G Adventures. Please familiarise yourself with the G Adventures payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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