Current as of: March 28, 2024 - 13:22

TPJ

Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
  • Destination: Peru
  • Programmes: Walking & Trekking
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 17 Days: Flight Inclusive
  • 15 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 16+
  • Trip Code: TPJ
  • Carbon Footprint: 51kg CO2e

Trip Overview

Trekking, jungle and indigenous culture: the best of Peru

Peru has been home to many civilisations, most notably the Incas, whose ancient cities and fortresses are still being discovered across this fascinating region. This three-part itinerary includes the Inca Trail, which takes in beautiful mountains and cloud forest as it follows a historic route to Machu Picchu, the best-preserved and most dramatic Inca ruin. It also explores the expansive landscapes of the high altiplano and the islands of Lake Titicaca and, in complete contrast, the dense jungles of the Amazon Rainforest.  Our classic Inca Trail trip is designed to give you more time to enjoy the trail by arriving to Machu Picchu in the afternoon for iconic photos and overnight in Aguas Calientes. We return the next morning, fresh and well rested, for our in-depth tour of Machu Picchu and train back to Cuzco.

At a Glance

  • Seven nights in hotels, three nights in a rainforest lodge, one night homestay with basic shared facilities, and three nights full-service camping
  • Four days walking with full porterage
  • Travel by private bus, train, boat and three internal flights
  • Altitude maximum: 13,830ft (4,215m); average: 10,005ft (3,050m)
  • 15lb (7kg) personal weight limit on Inca Trail trek
  • Alternative remote Moonstone Trek or One-Day Inca Trail Option available when permits have sold out
  • Citizen Science Departures available on this trip

Highlights

  • Walk the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate
  • Experience two unique visits to Machu Picchu for photos and fully guided exploration
  • Rest and refresh after your trek with overnight in charming Aguas Calientes
  • Spend three nights deep in the Amazon Rainforest
  • Explore Lake Titicaca, with a homestay on one of the islands
  • Enjoy the old Inca capital of Cuzco, home to Inca and colonial architecture

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.

Please note, it is essential you read the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu regulations in the Important Information section of the Trip Notes before you book this trip.

The size of Peru means this trip involves some long drives, particularly the one from Cuzco to Puno (around 10 hours). The buses used are comfortable and the scenery is outstanding. There will be several stops to break up the journey.

The Inca Trail is an Activity Level 3 (Moderate) graded trek:  There are four days walking with full porterage, reaching a maximum altitude of 13,830ft (4,215m) with an average altitude of 10,005ft (3,050m). Though not without its difficulties (in particular the ascent and descent of the first pass, known as Dead Woman’s Pass) this trek is possible for anyone with good health and fitness, but we would not recommend it to anyone with no previous trekking experience. If you are not a regular walker, you should put in physical preparation beforehand. The trek is also not particularly suitable for those with bad knees due to the number of steep and uneven steps, particularly on the third and fourth days of the trek.

You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference.

As this trip spends considerable time at altitude, we ask you to refer to the altitude warning within the Trip Notes. We spend two days in Cuzco (11,155ft/3,400m) acclimatising before starting the trek.

Protest action/strikes are not uncommon in Peru, and while these are generally peaceful, they can involve roadblocks and cause disruption to travel. Occasionally, your leader may have to adapt your itinerary in response to this.

Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as approximates only. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Group

In the Amazon, we are accompanied by local guides from the lodge. On the Inca Trail (and Moonstone Trek) there will be a full-trek crew of porters (horses and their wranglers on the Moonstone Trek), cooks and assistant guides.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 4

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

TPJ Maps

Land Only

  • Start City: Lima
  • End City: Lima

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Start Lima

Welcome to Lima, the busy capital of Peru. There’s plenty of adventure on your trip, but today’s all about settling into the hotel. You will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in the Miraflores district of Lima. There will be a notice board in the hotel reception with details of where and when the group welcome briefing will be held.

Accommodation: Hotel El Tambo 1 (or similar)

Day 2
Fly to Puerto Maldonado; boat journey into Tambopata Reserve; guided jungle walks

We have an early start today for the flight via Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado, a small jungle town. After a short drive via the lodge office (where we store our main luggage) to the river, we take a boat to our jungle lodge in the Tambopata Reserve (generally between 1hr 30min and 3hr 30min depending on the lodge used). On the way, we may see caimans, river turtles and a wide variety of birdlife.

Our rainforest lodge is basic, but all accommodation has en suite facilities with cold showers. Electricity is by generator and only available for a few hours a day in the dining room area.

Accommodation: Cayman Lodge Amazonia (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Days 3 - 4
Jungle exploration including forest walks and boat trips

The next two days are spent exploring the forest, rivers and lakes surrounding the lodge, on foot and in both motorised and paddle canoes. Although a lot of the wildlife tends to hide in the dense foliage, we can expect to see a wide variety of birds, including herons and egrets, jacanas, macaws and the prehistoric-looking hoatzin, plus several species of monkey, reptiles and insects and, with luck, giant otters that live in the Amazon Basin rivers.

Accommodation: Cayman Lodge Amazonia (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5
Fly to Cuzco; free time to explore the ancient capital

A dawn start is required for the boat trip back to Puerto Maldonado, giving memorable views of sunrise over the river. The wildlife is particularly active at this time; howler monkeys are frequently heard as they stake out their territories. After our flight to Cuzco, there is usually time for an afternoon orientation tour of the city. Cuzco is an extremely high city (at 11,155ft/3,400m) and you may find yourself short of breath on arrival.

Accommodation: MamaSara Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
Free day; optional Sacred Valley excursion

We have a free day in Cuzco today. The Inca Capital is among the most attractive cities in South America, with many interesting buildings, museums and sites. There are various optional activities that can be arranged through your leader, such as a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley (including the fortresses of Pisac and Ollantaytambo) or a visit to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, situated on a hillside above the city.

We have a full-trek briefing this afternoon (usually around 6pm).

Accommodation: MamaSara Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7
Start Inca Trail trek from Km82; walk along Vilcanota River; climb to Huayllabamba

Early this morning, we transfer (1hr 30min) from Cuzco into the Sacred Valley. Reaching the town of Ollantaytambo, we drive for one hour along the final stretch of road to the start of the Inca Trail at Piscacucho, recognized among adventurers as Km82. After greeting our trekking crew, we show our passports at the checkpoint and begin the fabled Inca Trail trek. Our route today runs alongside the Vilcanota River, beneath the snow-capped peak of Nevado Veronica, passing through cactus gardens and settlements, until we reach the terraced Inca ruins of Llactapata, where we continue up the Cusichaca Valley to camp near the village of Huayllabamba (9,186ft/2,800m).

Accommodation: Huayllabamba Camp (full-service camping)

Distance covered: 7mi (11km)

Activity hours: 6-7

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8
Summit Dead Woman's Pass; descend to Pacaymayu

The morning begins, as all do on our Inca Trail trek, with a hot drink delivered to your tent. Today’s journey is both challenging and rewarding, marking the most demanding and best-known stretch of the trail. A slow and steady climb takes us through a cloud forest to the meadows of Llulluchapampa, then we summit Dead Woman’s (Warmihuañusca) Pass, the highest point on the trek at 13,829ft (4,215m). After a well-deserved round of high fives and photos at the summit, we begin our steep descent on original Inca steps to reach our campsite in the scenic valley of the Pacaymayu River (11,811ft/3,600m). Warm up in the dining tent with a hot, fresh meal followed by a well-deserved sleep under the Andean night sky.

Accommodation: Pacaymayu Camp (full-service camping)

Distance covered: 6mi (10km)

Activity hours: 6-7

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9
Over Runquracay Pass to the ruins of Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca

After a hearty breakfast, we start the day with a climb, which takes us past the ruins of Runquracay and over the Runquracay Pass (12,894ft/3,930m), our second and final pass. From here, the Inca Trail becomes a clearly defined rolling path of flat boulders, providing access to sites only available to those on foot. One of the standout archeological sites we visit is Sayacmarca (11,893/3,625m), perched high above the green cloud forest. From here, we enjoy views of Salkantay mountain as we hike to our spectacular campsite on the ridge above the Inca site of Phuyupatamarca (12,073ft/3,680m), where we can enjoy the sunset and sunrise.

Accommodation: Phuyupatamarca Camp (full-service camping)

Distance covered: 7mi (12km)

Activity hours: 5-6

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10
Walk down Inca steps to Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate

From Phuyupatamarca, we take the famous Inca steps: a 1.2mi (2km) stone staircase that rapidly descends into an immense panorama, with the peaks of the Vilcabamba range above and the Vilcanota River far below.

Reaching Wiñay Wayna, we have plenty of time to explore these beautiful ruins and eat lunch before continuing along a relatively flat section of the trail (by Inca standards, through cloud forest and wild orchids to finally reach Inti Punku (the Sun Gate).

From here, we get our first full sight of Machu Picchu, with the Huayna Picchu mountain rising behind… congratulations, you made it!

Inti Punku is traditionally busy with photo-taking trekkers in the morning, so our late afternoon arrival affords us unobstructed views of the magnificent ruins. We also get a chance to snap some classic photos of Machu Picchu before we take the 30-minute bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes for a shower and comfortable bed for the night.

We are reunited with our fellow travelers who took the Moonstone Trek or the Train Option at the hotel this afternoon.

Accommodation: Terraza de Luna (or similar)

Distance covered: 6mi (9km)

Activity hours: 6-7

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11
Guided tour of Machu Picchu; return to Cuzco by train and by road

Well-rested and refreshed, we return to Machu Picchu this morning for our guided tour. Machu Picchu is an architectural and engineering marvel, the staggering mountain backdrop making it even more dramatic. The Spaniards never found it, the Incas left no records of it, and so Machu Picchu remained an enigma, a city lost for centuries in the jungle until it was rediscovered in 1911 by the American historian Hiram Bingham. Your guided tour highlights the history, culture, architecture and mysteries that Machu Picchu still holds today.

Accommodation: MamaSara Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 12
Drive across altiplano to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca

We take a bus ride across the altiplano, the high plains separating the Andes from the jungles. Although it is quite a long drive (10 hours including stops), the views are spectacular. There are scheduled stops at some of the most interesting sites, which helps break up the journey and we get a feel for the immensity of the Andean landscapes. A packed lunch is included today. We arrive in the evening in Puno, a high, chilly town on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Accommodation: Casona Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13
Boat to Amantani Island for village homestay

We explore Lake Titicaca, visiting the lesser-known Titinos communities who live on islands of floating reeds and produce some fine textiles. Though the altitude here (12,630ft/3,850m) is tiring, the air is very clear and the lakeside views can be magnificent, with the snow-capped peaks of the Andes towering in the background. There is the option to walk to the top of the island to watch the sunset. We spend the night on Amantani Island where we experience a homestay with the local villagers; this really allows us to see what life is like for the people in an isolated island community.

Accommodation: Titicaca homestay (basic accommodation)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14
Morning travel to mainland; afternoon fly to Lima

We take a boat to Chifron Bay and spend time exploring the peninsula before flying back to Lima (from nearby Juliaca airport). Depending on the flight taken, we may have time free for shopping and sightseeing, including an optional visit to the Gold Museum. Flight times vary and some groups will not arrive into Lima until late afternoon or early evening.

Accommodation: Hotel El Tambo 1 (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 15
End Lima

The trip ends after breakfast today. However, if you’d like a little longer to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Meals included: Breakfast

Altitude warning

This trip includes one or more nights over 11,480ft (3,500m) above sea level, where there is a genuine risk of being affected by acute mountain sickness (AMS). If left untreated, AMS can be life-threatening. We expect most clients to experience some mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, shortness of breath while walking or sleeplessness. Our leaders are trained to identify symptoms of severe AMS and if a client requires extra care, arrangements such as rapid descent, will be made immediately.

On some days, this trip climbs faster than commonly published ascent-rate recommendations. Based upon an assessment by our external safety and medical advisors and our risk-assessment process, we consider the ascent rate acceptable due to the additional safety measures in place for our customers. All our trips operating at high altitude meet our internal altitude-safety standards, which minimise the risk of serious incidents occurring while travelling at altitude.

Several medical conditions or medications can reduce your body’s ability to acclimatise. This may affect your performance and make you more susceptible to AMS. If you are worried about any pre-existing conditions, such as heart conditions, or your overall physical ability, you must seek medical advice prior to booking. The drug Diamox (also known as acetazolamide and normally only available on prescription) has been shown to aid acclimatisation in some individuals, and therefore may reduce the risk of AMS. Clients considering using Diamox should speak to their doctor about the drug, its side-effects and a prescription. While we endeavour to assist all our clients in achieving their goals, there may be times when your leader decides to delay or stop your ascent based on your overall condition or the onset of AMS.

If you are not taking out Exodus Travel Insurance, make sure your policy covers you up to the maximum altitude on this trip (if trekking in the Himalaya your policy should also cover the use of a helicopter for emergency medical evacuation).

Ascents, descents and distances

All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Alternative Route: Moonstone Trek

Once Inca Trail permits have sold out for a given date, we can no longer accept bookings for the classic Inca Trail trek. However, we can offer an equally spectacular alternative trek (not requiring a permit) in its place. The remote high-altitude Moonstone Trek takes in a number of recently discovered Inca and pre-Inca archaeological sites and there are practically no other tourists along the route.

If selected, the Moonstone Trek will replace days 7 to 10 of the standard Land Only itinerary. The maximum altitude on the Moonstone Trek is 15,175ft (4,625m), higher than that of the classic Inca Trail and the route is slightly more strenuous. Therefore, we class it as an Activity Level 4 (Moderate/Challenging) trek.

Depending on the split of the group between the Inca Trail and Moonstone Trek, you may find small group sizes on the Moonstone Trek. It is even possible that the Moonstone Trek will be provided for solo travellers. Please ask your sales representative if you would like to know how many people are booked on each, and/or have any specific questions or concerns.

Although it is possible to select the Moonstone Trek preferentially when Inca Trail permits are still available, a small group supplement may apply.

If you elect to take the alternative Moonstone Trek your itinerary will run as follows:

Day 7: Walk past ruins and hamlets to the village of Chillipawa

An early start, as it’s a very busy first day. We take a private minibus to the trailhead, stopping first to explore the nearby ruins after which the trek was named. This is a large site with several distinct Inca remnants, clearly of religious importance. As with the rest of the trek, we are most likely to have the site completely to ourselves. The Moonstone itself is a large carving on an enormous boulder, and its significance is not yet understood.

The trailhead is in a quiet, dusty valley and we soon climb high enough to enjoy great views. Around lunchtime, we stop to explore the imposing pre‐Inca fortress of Wata, which straddles the trail. The ruin has not yet been accurately dated and pottery can often still be found lying on the ground. The path then traverses along a green side valley as we make our way above a few tiny villages before entering the village of Chillipawa, where we camp.

Distance: 6.5mi (10.5km); six to seven hours walking

Accommodation: Full‐service camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Up the Accoccosa Pass and onto the high pampas

A long, steady climb with plenty of rest stops to aid acclimatisation takes us above the villages and into the high pampas – rugged meadows of long grass. We normally stop for lunch shortly before the crest of the Accoccosa Pass; the very rare Andean flicker woodpecker is sometimes seen (and often heard) here. The last leg of the pass is on loose red scree, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile: a broad, hidden valley surrounded by snowy peaks – the Huayanay Range on the left, the Urubamba Range straight ahead and the beautiful, triangular Mount Veronica (19,029ft/5,800m) to the right. We have time to explore this plateau and experience walking in the altiplano before returning to our camp for a well‐deserved hot dinner. The isolation of the camp, well away from any settlements, results in spectacular night skies when clear.

Distance: 5.5mi (8.8km); four to five hours walking

Accommodation: Full‐service camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Continue along a narrow canyon and Inca aqueduct before crossing over to the Inca quarry of Canchicata

We start after breakfast by following a stream into a narrow canyon. Rare polylepis trees grow here and we pass through a small grove as we leave the canyon. Our path then turns north and traverses very high above a deep and steep valley separating us from the Huayanay mountains. This is probably the most spectacular section of the trek and we roughly follow a (now defunct) Inca aqueduct, which was carved out of the cliffs to take water from the hidden valley of our campsite to the Sacred Valley several miles away. At the end of the traverse, we have a short but steep climb up to our lunch spot: a flat, ridge‐top meadow facing straight across the Sacred Valley to the snowy Urubamba Range.

After lunch, we walk down to Huayrapunku. Meaning Gate of the Wind, this is a ridge‐top Inca shrine oriented to Mount Veronica, of which it has an incredible view. A short walk brings us to our final campsite among the granite stones of the Canchicata Quarry. It was here that huge blocks were cut from the rose‐coloured granite before being dragged down the mountainside and across the river to the Sun Temple at Ollantaytambo.

Distance: 7.3mi (11.8km); five to six hours walking

Accommodation: Full‐service camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Descend to Ollantaytambo where the trek ends; catch the train to Aguas Calientes and rejoin the rest of the group

Wake early this morning to watch the sun rise over the Sacred Valley from our campsite. The rays catching the Mount Veronica glaciers certainly makes the effort worthwhile. This is our last day on the trek and we descend from the pampas into the lush valley floor along the enormous ramps on which the Incas dragged the stones. We cross the river and explore the huge Sun Temple complex to see where the stones ended up. Our trek finishes as we board the train to Aguas Calientes, where we join the rest of the group at the hotel.

Distance: 5mi (8km); two to three hours walking

Accommodation: Hotel Inti Punku El Tambo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Alternative Route: One-Day Inca Trail

We also offer a One Day Inca Trail option which you can choose in place of the classic Inca Trail if permits have sold out.

Day 7: Full-day walking tour of nearby ruins including Tambomachay and Sacsayhuaman

The hills above Cuzco city are dotted with some of the most interesting Inca ruins. We drive to the highest, Tambomachay, and return on foot to Cuzco via Puca Pucara, Qenco and Sacsayhuaman: an easy acclimatisation walk to get used to the altitude. An open-air picnic lunch is included during the hike near the spectacular ruins.

Distance: 4mi (6.5km); five to six hours walking (including site visits)

Accommodation: Hotel Koyllur (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Free day in Cuzco

Today has been left free to relax after the trek or explore Cuzco further. Again, your leader can help to arrange optional excursions and activities for you.

Accommodation: Hotel Koyllur (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9: Visit Pisac Market and Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley

This morning, we head out of Cuzco to the colourful handicraft market at Pisac, at the entrance to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. After free time to browse the stalls, we take a walking tour of the huge Inca ruins above the village. We will enjoy a local meal in a community along the valley and will learn about local lifestyles and activities. After lunch, we drive down the valley to Ollantaytambo where we visit the immense Inca fortress and explore the unique village whose streets still follow the pre-conquest grid plan.

Accommodation: Tunupa Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: One Day Inca Trail via Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu

This morning we take the train to km104, where we embark on the Inca steps: a 1.2mi (2km) stone staircase taking us rapidly downhill amid a panorama of overwhelming immensity, with the peaks of the Vilcabamba range above, and the river thousands of feet below. After visiting the attractive Wiñay Wayna ruins, we have an undulating walk through cloud forest high above the river to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From here we get our first full sight of Machu Picchu itself, with Huayna Picchu rising behind.

Inti Punku is traditionally busy with photo-taking trekkers, so we arrive later in the day to enjoy unobstructed views of the magnificent ruins.
While most groups choose to visit Machu Picchu today, we’ll pass around the edge of the ruins and exit the site, descending to Aguas Calientes for a well-earned rest, a shower and a comfortable bed for the night. Our trekking permits allow us one entry into the site, which we use for our tour tomorrow, but anyone wishing to visit the citadel on both days can purchase an additional entry ticket today – your tour leader will assist with this. There is usually time for an optional visit to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.

Distance: 5.6mi (9km); six to seven hours walking

Accommodation: Hotel Inti Punku El Tambo (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

Hotels, jungle lodge, camping and Titicaca homestay

Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest

On this trip, we stay in three-star hotels, a rainforest lodge and local homestay. Additionally, while on the Inca Trail (or Moonstone Trek), we enjoy full-service camping, meaning our camp staff put up and take down the tents, cook, and do the camp chores. You need only carry your backpack for the day and enjoy your time on the trek. The normal accommodations used on this trip can be found on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are some of the notable places we stay.

Amazon: Cayman Lodge Amazonia (nights 2-4)

Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest

Cayman Lodge Amazonia, near the Tambopata National Reserve, offers simple all-inclusive comfort in an Amazon jungle setting. The wooden lodges are built with the type of thatched roofs typically seen in the surrounding jungle communities. The rooms are simple, and all have private bathrooms with running water at room temperature. Electricity is available in the main lodge during mealtimes, while in the bedrooms, lighting is provided by lanterns or candles. There is also a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, a bar for refreshing drinks, and guided excursions to explore the rich biodiversity of the surrounding rainforest.

Inca Trail/Moonstone Trek: Full-service camping (nights 7-9)

Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest

For three nights, we sleep among Andean peaks and wake to mountain views. It’ll be the adventure of a lifetime for some, but not one without comforts. We sleep and dine in good-quality four-season tents. We also have a toilet tent set up both in camp and during lunch stops. Boiled and filtered drinking water is provided in the mornings, at lunch and dinner so we can refill our water bottles. Additionally, a bowl of warm water is provided each morning and evening for washing. On the Inca Trail, we stay in official campsites where additional bathroom facilities are available. On the Moonstone Trek, we use wild campsites.

Amantani island: Homestay (night 13)

Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest

Our trip includes an unforgettable homestay with a local family on Amantani island. This wonderful community project has guests staying with multiple families; the hosts share in the proceeds, which benefits both the Amantani community and the visitors who enjoy and learn from this unique cultural experience. The simple rooms are clean and the beds have sheets with plenty of blankets to keep you warm. Toilets and washbasins are outside.

Worth knowing

  • Single accommodation (including tents) can be booked for single supplement, subject to availability at the time of booking. This supplement covers single rooms throughout the trip, except for the overnight homestay on Amantani island where accommodations are shared.

Single supplement from £ 460

Food & Drink

All breakfasts, nine lunches and seven dinners included.

Peruvian cuisine has developed a reputation for its flavours and originality and it’s well worth trying out a few of the local delicacies. Among these are ceviche (a spicy dish of seafood or fish marinated in lime juice), lomo saltado (a Peruvian take on a beef stir-fry) and various hearty soups such as the delicious quinoa soup. Other dishes include roasted cuy (guinea pig), alpaca steak and, to drink, the national beverage: pisco sour.

Hotel breakfasts are normally simple buffet-style affairs, usually including bread/toast and jam, cereal, sometimes eggs or cooked dishes, sometimes fruit, tea/coffee and fruit juice. We cannot guarantee that wheat-/gluten-free products will be available for breakfast in all locations. If you have an intolerance, you may wish to bring your own breakfast food.

Lunches in the rainforest are either buffet lunches or picnics, depending on the day’s activities. Dinners in the Amazon are buffet style, taken at the lodge.

During the Inca Trail, hearty breakfasts are served and good quality cooked lunches and dinners are provided, and usually consist of soup or a starter, a main course with meat/fish and some form of carbohydrates, followed by a dessert. Some snacks between meals are also provided. Drinking water (boiled and filtered) is provided in the mornings and at lunch during the trek so you can refill your bottles. Tea/coffee is brought to your tent each morning and juice or hot drinks are provided with all meals during the trek.

Where lunch and dinner are not included, we’ll visit a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Drinking water is provided. The tap water in Peru is not safe to drink; boiled and filtered drinking water is provided on the trek and elsewhere your leader will buy large water containers for you to refill your bottle from.

Transport

A variety of transport is used during this tour and vehicle types may vary depending on group size: travel is by train, boat, bus, and three internal flights.

  • Airport transfers are by private car or minibus. The main road journeys are by private minibus or coach with heating/air conditioning and may or may not have a toilet on board.
  • In the Amazon Rainforest, we may share boats with other guests staying at the lodge.
  • We travel by train (with Peru Rail/Inca Rail) from Aguas Calientes (the town below Machu Picchu) to Ollantaytambo in expedition/executive class. Seating is four seats to a table and the carriages have panoramic windows and there is air conditioning/heating.
  • On Day 11 (for the guided tour of Machu Picchu), we take the public bus for the short journey between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu – this is the only transport option available on this route as private vehicles are not permitted. Queues can be very long first thing in the morning, especially during the peak summer months.
  • The boat on Lake Titicaca is private to our group, and there will be a local guide from one of the Lake Titicaca island communities. The boat is enclosed as it can get cold at this altitude but there are large windows on all sides and an outside deck to the rear. Life jackets are provided.

This point-to-point trekking holiday requires customers to walk between each overnight stay under their own steam. Other forms of transport may be available along the route (horses, 4x4s etc) but we cannot take responsibility for the safety or the cost of any transport that customers choose to take even if provided with the assistance of our leader or staff.

Weather & Seasonality

The diverse geography of Peru results in a very varied climate between different regions.

Lima falls within the coastal desert region of Peru, with a mild climate and very little rain all year. From April to November, the sky is almost always grey and cloudy and the air humid. Average daytime temperatures in Lima remain about 18C-24C (64F-75F) during this period, with July and August typically being the coolest. Nights are also mild, typically 15C-18C (59F-64F). From December to March, the Lima skies are clear and temperatures at their warmest but elsewhere in the country this is the rainy season.

While the Amazon Rainforest is generally warm and humid, it can be subject to drops in temperature caused by cold fronts pushing in from the south – this can occur any time of year but happens most often in June and July. We recommend you take warm clothing with you to the lodge in case of sudden changes in the weather.

Cuzco and the Andes have a temperate climate. December to March is the rainy season in Cuzco/the Andes and April to November is the dry season; characterised by clear skies and strong sunshine in the mornings, sometimes clouding over as the day progresses. Daytime temperatures are usually pleasant (approximately 20C/68F on average) but night times only 5C-10C (41F-50F), except for May, June, July and August when days are cooler and nights are often close to, or just below, freezing. In the Andes, however, anything is possible at any time of year, including cloud, rain or even snow, and rapid and unexpected changes.

Lake Titicaca is high (12,470ft/3,800m above sea level) and at this altitude the sun is strong but the air can be cold, and nights can be close to freezing. You will need to bring  warm layers and a waterproof or windstopper.

Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are in the cloud forest and, as such, experience large amounts of precipitation all year as clouds move up from the Amazon Basin. Rain here can be heavy but is seldom prolonged. Cold fronts sometimes occur from July to August.

Peru is affected by the El Niño weather phenomenon whereby warming of Pacific Ocean surface water off South America drives a shift in the atmospheric circulation resulting in abnormally high levels of rainfall over parts of South America. These events occur at irregular intervals of two to seven years, and last nine months to two years. In El Niño years, temperatures in Lima can be much warmer than described above but it still rarely rains in Lima.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Start hotel: Hotel El Tambo Uno, Avenida la Paz 1276, Miraflores 15074, Lima
Phone: +51 1 2194080
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)

Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.  If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) from the end hotel.

Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Lima
Location end: Lima

What To Take

Essential Equipment

For full details of what to take, please see our Inca Trail kit list.

  • Sleeping bag (three/four seasons)
  • Warm jacket
  • Comfortable, waterproof walking boots
  • Hat and gloves
  • Waterproof jacket and over trousers (over pants)
  • Sunglasses
  • Two large water bottles
  • Sunhat
  • Sunscreen
  • Daypack to carry personal items
  • Thermal underwear
  • Lightweight clothes with long sleeves and trousers (pants)
  • Sandals for wearing in the lodge
  • Insect repellent
  • Head torch (headlamp)
  • Small trek towel

On arrival at Puerto Maldonado, a small bag (which can take 7kg-8kg) is provided in which you must pack only what you need to take into the jungle. The rest of your luggage will be stored for you until your return. As well as lightweight clothing, we also recommend you take warm clothing since the rainforest can be subject to sudden cold snaps, especially in June and July.

Exodus provides (in Cuzco) a sleeping mat for the duration of the Inca Trail trek. The mat is full length and approximately 1.6in (4cm) thick when inflated.

A sleeping bag is not included but is required for the trek – these can be hired locally through your leader in Cuzco from 82 Peruvian soles (US$22).

Inca Trail Baggage and Weight Restriction

While any type of normal luggage or suitcase can be used for this holiday, a soft kitbag or duffel bag (measuring approximately 27in x 12in / 70cm x 30cm) should be used for the trek portion (since porters cannot carry hard suitcases or bags with wheels etc).

If you book this trip, we provide an Exodus kitbag to pack your luggage in while on trek. Once you have booked you will be sent instructions on how to claim your free bag (they will not be sent out automatically). There are also details on how to claim for another item from the Exodus shop should you already have one of these. If you book via an agent, it is at the agent’s discretion and you should speak directly to them to arrange delivery. Please note that if you book less than three weeks before the departure date we cannot guarantee that your kitbag will arrive before your trip starts, so if this is the case please contact us on datateam@exodus.co.uk to let us know. For full T&Cs see www.exodus.co.uk/kitbags.

As the kitbags do not have wheels, you may prefer to pack it inside your own wheelie case for ease of travelling to, and moving through, the airport. Your suitcase can then be left in Cuzco with anything not needed for the trek, while the kitbag will be carried by your porter on trek. If, however, you can’t fit the Exodus kitbag in your main luggage (or do not receive one in time) then our local partners will provide a soft duffel bag in Cuzco (this should be returned to your leader after the trek).

There are strict regulations regarding luggage on the Inca Trail. These regulations are strictly enforced and were created to reduce environmental damage to the Inca Trail and to comply with porters work laws.

Porterage for up to 15lb (7kg) of personal gear is allowed on the Inca Trail trek. This is inclusive of your sleeping bag, which usually weighs approximately 4lb (1.8kg). Your sleeping mat, however, does not count towards your personal weight limit. If your packed duffel bag exceeds the allowed weight, you must transfer excess items from your duffel bag to your daypack.

The above weight restrictions do not apply to the alternative Moonstone Trek as porterage is by horses/mules. Nevertheless, please try to keep your duffel bag to a maximum of about 22lb (10kg) so as not to overload the animals.

Environmental considerations

We believe in reducing our negative environmental impact wherever possible, even when nature calls. If no facilities are available, you may need to go behind a tree, bush or rock. To avoid leaving toilet paper behind, we recommend taking biodegradable bags with you. Once you have done your business, put the used paper in the bag and dispose when appropriate facilities are available.

Water included

Plastic bottles are a big issue in many countries where recycling isn’t yet widely available; they often end up in landfill or get burned. Both processes are harmful to the environment and we would like to reduce our impact here. For your trip, we provide an alternative to single-use plastic bottles to reduce the plastic used. This means that safe drinking water will be available throughout; all you need to do is bring a bottle to refill along the way. Please add this to your packing list.

Optional Equipment

We strongly recommend taking trekking poles for the Inca Trail, as the number of steps can be hard on the knees, but please note that due to recent environmental legislation poles must have a plastic tip or protector fitted on the end. Walking poles with rubber tips can be hired through your leader in Cuzco from 33 soles (US$8) per pole. Walking poles are not permitted inside the Machu Picchu ruins without a medical certificate detailing their necessity.

We also recommend:

  • Small sewing kit (with safety pins)
  • Wet wipes
  • Cold water detergent or laundry soap (biodegradable)
  • Personal music player / books / pack of cards
  • Swimwear for hot springs

Practical Information

Visa

Peru

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Peru. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

If you are travelling via the USA and are eligible to transit under the Visa Waiver Program, you are required to register in advance for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). There is a US$21 charge, which is only payable online. Please see our website www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for further information.

Please note, not all nationalities have the same eligibility for travel to or transit via the USA, and you may not be covered by the visa waiver program. Regulations stipulate that any person who has travelled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen since March 2011, or have dual nationalities of these countries, may no longer qualify. In addition, if you have travelled to Cuba since 12 January 2021 you will not be eligible for the visa waiver program and should instead apply for a visa.

If you are in doubt of your eligibility, please check the visa requirements with your local US embassy.

Vaccinations and Health

Peru

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, typhoid, tuberculosis and yellow fever. Additionally, Zika fever, a mosquito‐borne viral disease, is a known risk in Peru. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, so you should take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Please check all vaccination recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.

Amazon: If you are travelling to the Tambopata reserve in the Amazon rainforest, the risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice. We also strongly recommend that you obtain a yellow fever vaccination. Additionally, dengue fever and chikungunya are known risks in the Amazon region. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Local Time

Peru's time zone: America/Lima (UTC -05:00)

Electricity

Peru's electricity: Plug types A (two flat pins), B (three pins: two flat, one round) and C (two round pins)– 220V, 60Hz. There are no charging facilities available on the Inca Trail, our other camping treks or Amantani Island, so we recommend you take spare batteries or a solar charger with you. If staying in an Amazon lodge, there is no mains electricity; a generator will provide power for a few hours a day only in the main lodge/dining area, while lanterns, torches or candles will be provided in the bedrooms. Additionally, if you stay at the Inkaterra Hacienda Conception Amazon Lodge, there is limited electricity in the cabanas; however, all cabanas have reading lights and a ceiling ventilator.

Money

Peru's currency: Peruvian nuevo sol (PEN)

ATM Availability

ATMs are available in the larger cities and towns and are particularly recommended since they often allow you to withdraw either dollars or soles and exchange rates are generally good. Most international credit and debit cards are accepted, but you should inform your bank you are travelling to Peru and check if your card will work in the local ATMs. There are some ATMs in Aguas Calientes, but they do sometimes run out of cash so it is a good idea to take your spending money for Machu Picchu with you on the trek itself. Credit card acceptance is increasing, but generally they can be used only at the large (and more expensive) restaurants and shops. Check with your card provider to ensure your card can be used in Peru. We do not recommend taking travellers cheques as these are becoming increasingly difficult to exchange.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

We recommend either taking cash with you to change into soles locally or using ATMs to withdraw money in Peru as you go, so you are not left with excess at the end of your trip. It is a good idea to change a small amount into soles at the counters in the baggage hall upon arrival. Change is often in short supply, so ask for small denomination banknotes and try to break up any large notes at the earliest opportunity. It is possible to obtain Peruvian soles before you travel but exchange rates can be lower than exchanging money locally in Peru. Some larger establishments and hotels accept US dollars but the vast majority of places will only accept soles.

Food, drinks and similar incidentals can vary in price enormously in Peru and are relatively expensive compared to other developing nations. Allow about US$15-US$20 per meal not included to eat at tourist class restaurants. Cheaper food is abundant at small local cafes, although sanitary conditions at these places cannot be guaranteed. Bottled water and soft drinks are readily available for around US$1-US$2 each.

You may want to hire equipment for your trek in Cuzco – please see the Packing Section for prices.

Peruvian airport taxes are included in the price of your flight ticket and there will be no need to pay these locally.

Please note, there is a possibility the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism may increase entrance fees to archaeological sites at any time. If this happens, we will inform you of the increase and the additional amount will be payable locally.

Peruvian passport or identity card holders

Please note, the costs of Exodus holidays in Peru are based on the assumption you do not hold a Peruvian passport or resident’s card. If you are officially resident in Peru or are a Peruvian passport holder, you will be liable to an additional 18 percent tax on the majority of services, and this extra sum will be payable locally to our local partner. Other nationalities are exempt from this tax. Please notify us at the time of booking if you are legally resident in Peru or hold a Peruvian passport so we can advise you of the total cost of these taxes.

Your tour leader can tell you about the full range of optional excursions available throughout your holiday; however, the most popular are:

A Partial Tourist Ticket (BTG) is required for entrance to the sites in and around Cuzco and the Sacred Valley – this is not included in the excursion prices below but can be purchased locally from 70 soles (approximately US$21).

  • Cuzco city tour and four ruins (half day – five hours): From US$48 per person (based on four participants), excludes BTG. This includes visits to the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Tambomachay and Puca Pucará plus a tour of the city itself, including the Plaza de Armas, where the cathedral is located; Qorikancha ‘Sun Temple’ (entrance included); and San Pedro Market.
  • Sacred Valley tour (full day – eight hours): From US$58 per person (based on four  participants), excludes BTG. Drive to the Sacred Valley, stopping at El Mirador viewpoint en route. Visit Pisac Market and fortress and Ollantaytambo; return to Cuzco.
  • South Valley tour (full day – seven hours): From US$66 per person (based on four participants), excludes BTG. Visit the little-known valley to the south of Cuzco, including the terraces at Tipon, the pre-Inca ruins of Pikillaqta and the ‘Sistine Chapel of the Americas’ in Andahuaylillas (entrance included); return to Cuzco.
  • Lima city tour (half day – three hours): From US$44 per person (based on four participants). Visit Pucllana Pyramid, the colonial centre including Lima’s Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Government Palace, the City Hall, and other important monuments. Later, visit the Convent of San Francisco with its catacombs (entrance included) and continue to the modern Miraflores district.
  • Stand-up paddle (half day – four hours): From US$82 per person (based on two participants). Includes private transfer, specialised guide, fruit, water and hot drinks. Price can vary if there are more people.
  • Zip-line (full day – eight to nine hours): From US$60 per person. Includes transport, security equipment, specialised guide, box lunch.
  • Via ferrata (full day – eight to nine hours): From US$60 per person. Includes transport, security equipment, specialised guide, box lunch.
  • Via ferrata and zip line (full day – eight to nine hours): From US$100 per person. Includes transport, security equipment, specialised guide, box lunch.
  • Mountain biking excursion in the Sacred Valley (full day – seven hours): From US$130 per person (based on two participants). Includes private transfer, security equipment, specialised guide, box lunch.
  • White-water rafting (full day – eight hours): From US$140 per person (minimum of two participants). Drive to the Chiquicahuana area of the Southern Valley to start rafting in Vilcanota River. Spend two to three hours rafting and experiencing rapids level III and III+. Finish your adventure with a picnic lunch before heading back to Cusco. Activity available from April to December.

Prices of excursions vary depending on the number of people taking part. The prices given within these Trip Notes are based on four participants and are intended as a guideline only. Actual prices will be more for smaller group sizes and less for larger group sizes. All tours use private transport and there will be an English-speaking guide. Please note, cash is the preferred method of payment for any of the optional activities.

For some activities, a minimum number of participants may be required. Some activities may not always be possible due to weather, seasonality, national holidays or unforeseen circumstances.

Tipping

In Peru, it is customary for local staff to receive tips and these tips can be an important source of extra income for hard-working crew. How much to tip is a personal decision. As customers often ask us for a suggestion of how much is appropriate for different individuals, we have prepared some guidelines with our local partner – your leader will provide a handout which we hope will be useful to your group. Please note, Peruvian sol is the preferred currency for tips.

Tipping kitty: On this trip, we recommend running a tipping kitty. A tipping kitty means we tip as a group, and individuals don’t need to worry about giving out small tips to various people who have helped during the trip (ie drivers, local guides, boatmen, hotel staff). The contribution per person per day we suggest is 25 soles (US$6).

Tour Leader: Leaders are paid fairly for their role but are, of course, always grateful for recognition of their skills and hard work. Tips for your leader should be based on their performance and engagement with the group, and if you are happy with the leader’s work, we recommend somewhere around 25 soles (US$6) per person per day, but customers are encouraged to contribute what they feel happy giving – either less or more than the amount suggested above.

Those on the Moonstone Trek should deduct four days’ worth as the Tour Leader does not accompany you on the Moonstone Trek.

Tipping of your trekking crew

The trekking crew includes guides, cooks, kitchen staff and porters (or horsemen on the Moonstone Trek). Tips are best arranged on a group basis, and a volunteer from the group should gather the money and split the total collected into smaller amounts for each person. This is normally done on the last night of the trek. Your leader will be happy to assist as needed.

Inca Trail Trek: the recommended contribution per group member is 160-210 soles (or 180-230 soles per person for small groups of six or less).

Moonstone Trek: the recommended contribution per group member is 140-190 soles (or 160-210 soles per person for small groups of six or less). Around 200-300 soles of the total collection would normally be allocated to the Main Trek Guide.

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

  • The use of a local guide means our customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural-social sensitivities.
  • This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food and support of other local enterprises.
  • The porters we work with are not directly employed by our local partner, but we work with the same communities each year; they are fairly paid and we supply uniforms, walking shoes and provide safe transport and community support for them. Our trek manager is a leading figure and consultant for the Porters’ Federation, which campaigns for the fair treatment of porters in the region.
  • We’re passionate about the welfare of our punctilious porters. Alongside setting the golden standard for fair treatment, we’ve taken the next step with our pioneering Porter Project. In Peru, despite trekking the Inca Trail numerous times, most porters never have the opportunity to visit the stunning ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. We’ve taken the initiative to fix this and in 2018 started a project to ensure each of our porters has the opportunity to experience an important part of their own cultural heritage. We can now proudly say that more than 164 porters have been involved this project, and our mini documentary Carried Away about our porters, has helped raise awareness of the awesome job these porters do.
  • The homestay on Amantani Island on Lake Titicaca is a positive exchange actively encouraging group members to talk to locals and learn about traditional customs – and the income from our stay is divided among the island community.
  • Funded by the Community Kickstart Project, our operator is working with Medlife to deliver emergency food parcels to the households of porters and other staff members who have continuously worked hard to guide our clients along the iconic Inca Trail.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

  • By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
  • Trekking trips have little detrimental impact on the environment and our entrance fees for the archaeological sites, museums and churches we visit, including Machu Picchu, help support their maintenance, restoration and upkeep.
  • We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste, for example eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead providing refills for reusable bottles.
  • We operate a zero-impact policy on the Inca Trail removing all waste from campsites and separating it so that it can be easily recycled or composted. This ensures no rubbish or plastic is left behind in the places we visit.
  • Our local operator has been certified and verified by Rainforest Alliance since 2015.
  • Our Animal Welfare Policy ensures all our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regards to working animals and wildlife viewing.
  • Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

  • Through our Planet Promise, we have pledged to halve the carbon footprint of our trips by 2030 and made rewilding and carbon compensation commitments for every customer who travels.
  • Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
  • Vegetarian options are available at majority of accommodation and restaurants.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

  • Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
  • Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own reusable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.

Important Information

Water safety

This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.

Machu Picchu regulations

  1. Tickets are valid for one entry
  2. We spend approximately three hours at Machu Picchu and our guided tour lasts about two hours
  3. Upon finishing our one-way Machu Picchu guided tour, we must exit the site

Please note, we visit Machu Picchu in the morning or afternoon to avoid the peak entry time (10am to midday).

Inca Trail regulations

There are several important Inca Trail regulations we would like to make you aware of:

  1. Spaces on the Inca Trail are on a first-come, first-served basis and we urge you to book as early as possible.
  2. If you cancel your booking more than eight weeks before departure and wish to transfer your deposit to another departure or another trip the transfer fee is approximately £150 (US$210 / CA$252 / AU$308 / €191) as we will lose the permit we have purchased on your behalf. This is an amendment to our Booking Conditions. No transfers are possible within eight weeks of departure.
  3. Bookings can only be made if we are supplied with your full name, passport details, date of birth and nationality, exactly as per the passport you will be using to travel to Peru (this information is used to purchase your Inca Trail permit). If your passport details do not match those on your permit you will be refused entry to the Inca Trail by the local authorities.
  4. Should the passport used to purchase your permit be lost, stolen or expire before your Inca Trail start date, you must purchase a new passport and notify Exodus immediately as we will need to apply to amend your Inca Trail permit. To do so, you must supply copies of both your old and new passports to Exodus in advance of travel and pay an administration fee of £25 (US$35 / CA$42 / AU$52 / €32). For this reason, we strongly recommend that you make a copy of your passport at the time of booking and keep it somewhere safe.
  5. Please be aware that these regulations may change at any time, and Exodus is not responsible for the decisions made by Peruvian authorities.
  6. There is a possibility the Peruvian authorities may increase the entrance fees to the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and other major sights at any time. If they do so, we will inform you of this increase and the extra amount will need to be paid locally in cash in Peru.

Please note: While your departure date may be ‘Guaranteed’, your Inca Trail permit itself will initially be ‘On Request’. If you’re travelling within the current year, we try to purchase your permit immediately upon receiving your booking. If travelling next year, we will apply for your permit as soon as they are released for sale. If we are unable to get your permit, we will contact you to discuss your options.

Important Information

Your safe participation 

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. 

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. 

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. 

How to Book

  1. Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
  2. Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
  3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.