The Inca Trail to Machupicchu(The Hatun Ñan in the native Quechua language) is considered among the best trekking trails in the world, because of its highly striking beauty, ancient Inca ruins and varied ecological zones. This route goes thru very diverse terrains, from high desert plains to tropical Andean rainforest, at the end we arrive at the "Lost City" of the Incas, Machupicchu, one of the world´s most beautiful and important archaeological treasures. As we stroll through the nice Inca temples, altars, terraces, fountains and chambers, all displaying intricate stonework, we get a clear picture of what the Inca world must have been like. Experienced guides will conduct our journey, ensuring both a pleasant and safe trip.

ITINERARY

Day 1. Upon arrival to Cusco, transfer from the airport to your hotel to rest and get used to the 11,000 feet altitude. In the afternoon, we will have a tour of the city and the nearby ruins, including the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo shrine and the Incan site of Tambomachay. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Cusco.

Day 2. Transfer to the Sacred Valley of the Incas for a morning visit of the Inca town of Ollantaytambo. We will then drive to the head of the trail at km 82, where we start our trek. Following the Urubamba River, we make our first campsite near Llactapata. (B+L+D)

Day 3. INCA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU•Early in the morning, we start our trek escorted by native "Quechua" porters. Going through semi-arid terrain, we have magnificent views of the Veronica glacier(20,000feet)., we walk past the Inca hamlet of Wayllabamba and then through a cloud-immersed Andean forest to our camp at Llulluchapampa (11,000feet). (B+L+D)

Day 4. INCA TRAIL to MACHUPICCHU. This day, the first part of the trail takes us to the Warmiwanuska Pass at 13,500'. Continuing on a remarkably well-preserved Inca trail, we will be passing ancient archaeological sites covered by dense jungle overgrowth. Camp is at Phuyupatamarca (¨City Above the Clouds¨), with a spectacular view of snow-capped Andean peaks. (B+L+D)

Day 5. MACHUPICCHU. Passing through Inti Punku ( Sun Gate¨), we arrive to Machupicchu, the ¨Lost City of the Incas¨, discovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham. Overnight at the town of Aguas Calientes, with time to relax at nearby hot springs. (B+L)

Day 6. MACHUPICCHU. All day visit to the Sacred city, escorted by an experienced guide. Late afternoon train back to Cusco. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Cusco. (B)

Day 7. CUSCO. Free day for shopping and sightseeing, or choose your own tour. Overnight at the same hotel in Cusco. (B))

Day 8. CUSCO/LIMA/USA Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima and then home. (B)

INCLUDED : - All the transfers in Cusco -3 nights at a 3-star hotel in Cusco-1 night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes-3 nights camping-Professional trekking guide -Double occupancy tents or double rooms at hotels-porters, cooks, and all meals while on the trail. -Dining tent, kitchen tent and latrine tent-Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machupicchu, students with ISC get a discount) - Tourist train back to Cusco.

DOES NOT INCLUDE: Air fare - Sleeping bag. Personal equipment -Extra porters available to carry your personal belongings - If you need any assistance with local flights, airport transfers and hotels in Lima, we will be glad to help you.

DEPARTURE DATES :
* EVERY DAY FROM APRIL THROUGH JANUARY.

COST :
With 3 star Hotel:
From 3 to 8 participants US $ 657.00