Peru Trip Lima, Huacachina, Cusco Inca Trail, Machu Picchu & Tambopata 15 Days / 14 Nights

Peru Trip 15 Days Lima, Huacachina, Cusco Inca Trail, Machu Picchu & Tambopata operates year-round with guaranteed departures for a minimum of 2 travelers.. This provides greater flexibility and peace of mind when planning your trip, without having to wait for a large group to form.

In addition, you can choose the option that best suits your needs: accommodation in standard hotels, 3- to 4-star hotels, or no accommodation included if you prefer to book your hotels independently.

The experience begins in Lima, from where you will travel to Paracas, the Ballestas Islands, and Huacachina. You will then continue to Cusco to explore the former capital of the Inca Empire, visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and prepare for one of the most iconic experiences of the journey: the legendary Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights to Machu Picchu.

After reaching the extraordinary citadel of Machu Picchu, you will have time to rest in Cusco before taking an excursion to the famous Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca.

Finally, you will travel to Puerto Maldonado and Tambopata, where the scenery changes completely as you enter the Peruvian Amazon and experience its remarkable biodiversity before concluding your journey.

To book this tour, you will need to provide your passport details and corresponding flight information.

Because this package includes the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days, permits are limited and subject to availability. We recommend booking several months in advance to secure both your Inca Trail permit and your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

Machu Picchu entrance circuits and times, train services, and all other services subject to availability will be confirmed according to your booking date.

New Regulations for Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

  • The Inca Trail campsites mentioned in our itineraries may not always be the same at the beginning of your journey, as the campsites along the Inca Trail are subject to space availability, and it is the government authorities who grant us the spaces 2 days before the start of your tour. We cannot guarantee the Wiñay Wayna campsite on the third night for all our groups. As a result, some of our groups may have to camp at Phuyupatamarca on the third night of the trek.
  • The Phuyupatamarca campsite is approximately four hours from Intipunku (Sun Gate). Despite these changes, we want to assure you that our clients will still have enough time to reach Intipunku and witness the beautiful sunrise.
  • The new regulations of the Peruvian government regarding the Inca Trail indicate that the guided tour in Machu Picchu after your arrival at the Inca citadel will follow circuit number 3. Therefore, we recommend that you make the most of the opportunity to take all your photographs once you begin the descent from the Sun Gate and reach the viewpoint, where they will take the classic photograph of the entire Inca citadel. See the article on Machu Picchu and circuit 3
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Peru Trip 15 Days Lima, Huacachina, Cusco Inca Trail, Machu Picchu & Tambopata

Included

  • Day 1: Arrival in Lima
    Reception at Lima Airport, assistance from our representative, transfer to your selected hotel, and free afternoon to rest or explore the city on your own.
  • Day 2: Lima – Paracas – Ballestas Islands – Ica – Huacachina – Lima
    Hotel pickup, round-trip tourist transportation, speedboat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, visit to the Candelabro, visit to a chocolate factory, tasting at a local winery, dune buggy ride in Huacachina, and sandboarding.
  • Day 3: Lima – Cusco – Free Day
    Breakfast at your hotel in Lima, transfer to Lima Airport, reception upon arrival at Cusco Airport, transfer to your selected hotel, and free afternoon to rest or explore the city on your own.
  • Day 4: Cusco City Tour
    Breakfast at the hotel, tourist transportation, professional guide, and entrance tickets for visits to the Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
  • Day 5: Sacred Valley – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Ollantaytambo
    Breakfast at the hotel, pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, tourist transportation, professional guide, and entrance tickets for visits to Chinchero, Moray, the Maras Salt Mines, and the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, buffet lunch, and overnight accommodation in Ollantaytambo.
  • Day 6: Inca Trail – Km 82 – Wayllabamba
    Breakfast at the hotel, pickup from Ollantaytambo, transportation to Km 82, entrance to the Inca Trail, professional guide, porters, camping equipment, lunch, dinner, and overnight camping in Wayllabamba.
  • Day 7: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
    Breakfast, professional guide, porters, camping equipment, lunch, dinner, and overnight camping in Pacaymayo.
  • Day 8: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayaqmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
    Breakfast, professional guide, porters, visits to the archaeological sites along the Inca Trail, lunch, dinner, and overnight camping along the route.
  • Day 9: Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco
    Light breakfast, entrance to Machu Picchu, guided visit on Circuit 3, bus down to Aguas Calientes, return train ticket to Ollantaytambo, transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, and overnight accommodation in Cusco.
  • Day 10: Free Day in Cusco
    Free day to rest after the Inca Trail and overnight accommodation in Cusco.
  • Day 11: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca
    Hotel pickup, round-trip tourist transportation, breakfast, professional guide, entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain, lunch, first-aid kit, oxygen tank, and overnight accommodation in Cusco.
  • Day 12: Cusco – Puerto Maldonado – Corto Maltés Amazonía
    Reception at Puerto Maldonado Airport, transfer to the office, transfer to Puerto Bolívar, boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to the lodge, walk along an Amazon rainforest trail, visit to a rubber-tapping camp, nighttime caiman safari, lunch, dinner, and overnight accommodation at Corto Maltés Amazonía.
  • Day 13: Sandoval Lake – Observation Tower – Brazil Nut Camp
    Breakfast, boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, excursion to Sandoval Lake within the Tambopata National Reserve, paddleboat excursion, visit to the observation tower, visit to a Brazil nut camp, lunch, dinner, and overnight accommodation at Corto Maltés Amazonía.
  • Day 14: Amazon Farm – Machiguenga Family
    Breakfast, river navigation, visit to a local farm with a tasting of regional products, visit to a Machiguenga family, lunch, dinner, and overnight accommodation at Corto Maltés Amazonía.
  • Day 15: Parrot Clay Lick – Local Market – Airport Transfer
    Coffee or hot herbal tea before the excursion, visit to the parrot clay lick, breakfast, return boat ride to Puerto Maldonado, visit to the local market, and transfer to Puerto Maldonado Airport.
  • 2 hotel nights in Lima
  • 5 hotel nights in Cusco
  • 1 hotel night in Ollantaytambo
  • 3 nights of camping along the Inca Trail
  • 3 nights at Corto Maltés Amazonía

Not Included

  • Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners not specified in the itinerary
  • Domestic or international flights
  • Lima – Cusco flight
  • Cusco – Puerto Maldonado flight
  • Puerto Maldonado – Lima flight or flight to your next destination
  • Dune buggy ride and sandboarding in Huacachina
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Additional activities during the free day in Cusco
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guides and staff
  • Additional services or activities not specified in the itinerary

Starting at

$ .00USD

per person

Check Availability We kindly advise all clients to confirm ticket availability with our sales team prior to making any payment. This helps ensure that your booking is processed smoothly and without inconvenience. Contact travel advisor +51 940 110 208

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Welcome to Peru! We know how exhausting international flights can be, so upon your arrival in the Peruvian capital, we will make sure your welcome is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Your Inti Sun Trek representative will be waiting for you at Lima Airport with a sign displaying your name to welcome you and comfortably transfer you to your selected hotel.

After check-in, you will have time to rest, take a refreshing shower, and recover from your journey. If you prefer, you can also explore the surrounding area or enjoy Peru’s world-renowned cuisine by having lunch at your hotel or at one of the many excellent local restaurants (meals not included).

Depending on your arrival time, you will also have the option to take the Lima City Tour, available every day at 8:30 a.m. or 2:00 p.m. During the tour, you will discover the three stages of Lima: Ancient, Colonial, and Modern Lima. Highlights include a panoramic view of the Huaca Pucllana Pyramid, Lima’s Historic Center with its impressive colonial architecture, the San Francisco Convent and its Catacombs, as well as the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores.

The tour also includes a visit to the Central Reserve Bank Museum, where you can admire an important collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, ceramics, and textiles.

Note: The Central Reserve Bank Museum is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays.

If you prefer not to take the City Tour, you can explore Lima at your own pace by visiting the district of Miraflores, one of the city’s most popular tourist areas. You can enjoy a walk through Kennedy Park or go shopping at the famous Larcomar shopping center, located overlooking the Pacific coast.

In the evening, we especially recommend enjoying dinner at Central or Maido, both recognized among the world’s best restaurants by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Due to high demand, advance reservations are recommended.

Overnight stay in Lima.

Day 2: Lima – Paracas – Ballestas Islands – Huacachina – Lima

Between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Lima and begin our journey south toward Paracas.

Upon arrival in Paracas, we will head to El Chaco Pier to board a modern speedboat for an excursion to the Ballestas Islands, located in Paracas Bay. During the trip, you will enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and observe a wide variety of marine wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, flamingos, parihuanas, and numerous seabirds. Along the way, you will also see the famous Candelabra geoglyph carved into a hillside while your guide explains the different theories about its origin. The boat tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

After the excursion, we will continue to the city of Ica, where you will have free time for lunch (not included).

Next, we will visit the Noelia Chocolate Factory, where you can sample traditional regional products such as chocotejas, alfajores, jams, artisan cookies, filled mousses, and more.

In the afternoon, we will visit the beautiful Huacachina Oasis, a natural lagoon surrounded by impressive sand dunes. Here you will enjoy an exciting dune buggy ride and the experience of sandboarding in the desert. You will also have free time to walk around the oasis and take unforgettable photographs.

Before returning to Lima, we will visit a local winery, where you will have the opportunity to taste some of the region’s most traditional products, including wines, piscos, pisco creams, macerated spirits, and mistelas.

At approximately 7:00 p.m., we will board the bus back to Lima. Upon arrival, around 10:00 p.m., our team will transfer you to your selected hotel.

Overnight stay in Lima.

Day 3: Transfer to Lima Airport – Arrival in Cusco – Free Day

Day highlight: Arrival in the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and time to acclimatize to the altitude.

Today your Andean adventure begins! After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Lima, your host will accompany you to the airport for your flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

During the flight, you will be able to appreciate the impressive change in scenery as the Pacific coast and desert dunes gradually give way to the majestic Andes Mountains.

Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, an Inka Trail Backpacker representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals area with a sign displaying your name to welcome you and comfortably transfer you to your selected hotel. Located at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, Cusco offers an extraordinary combination of history, culture, and Andean landscapes.

After check-in, we recommend taking some time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. You may also enjoy a traditional cup of coca tea at your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time, you will have the rest of the day free to have lunch at a local restaurant, explore the Plaza de Armas, visit the traditional San Blas neighborhood, browse local handicraft shops, or simply relax in one of Cusco’s cozy cafés.

In the evening, we recommend enjoying dinner to discover traditional Peruvian and Andean cuisine.

“It’s not altitude sickness… it’s the feeling of being closer to the sky.”

Overnight stay in Cusco

Day 4: Cusco City Tour

Today you can take the Cusco City Tour, available at two different times: from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., allowing you to choose the option that best fits your itinerary.

During the tour, you will learn about the history of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and the importance of some of its main monuments.

We will visit the impressive Cusco Cathedral, located in the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire an important collection of colonial and religious art.

We will continue to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, considered one of the most important temples of the Inca Empire and an extraordinary example of the precision of Inca architecture.

We will then travel to the outskirts of the city to visit four important archaeological complexes:

Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca construction known for its enormous stone blocks fitted together with remarkable precision.

Qenqo, a ceremonial center featuring passages, channels, and formations carved directly into the rock.

Puka Pukara, an ancient Inca structure believed to have served as a checkpoint and lookout post.

Tambomachay, known as the “Temple of Water,” famous for its channels and fountains built during the Inca period.

At the end of the tour, we will return to Cusco’s historic center, where you will have free time to continue exploring the city, go shopping, or enjoy local cuisine, depending on the schedule you selected.

Overnight stay in Cusco
Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

Day 5: Sacred Valley of the Incas – Ollantaytambo and Overnight in Ollantaytambo

We will pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco between 6:20 and 6:50 a.m. and travel for approximately one hour by private transportation to Chinchero, a small town with beautiful views of the Sacred Valley. In this charming place, you will see adobe houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and local residents dressed in traditional Peruvian clothing. Here, the inhabitants still preserve many traditions and handicraft techniques inherited from the Incas. If you wish, you can watch a demonstration of the traditional wool washing and dyeing process using plants and minerals from the region.

We will then continue our journey to Moray to visit this fascinating site, which was used by the Incas for agricultural experimentation and the cultivation of different types of seeds. Here, you will learn about the ingenious drainage system designed at the bottom of the terraces to prevent flooding during the rainy season.

After visiting Moray, we will drive for approximately 20 minutes to the Maras Salt Mines. At this impressive site, you will see hundreds of pools fed by a natural saltwater spring and built in terraces along the slope of a narrow valley. Water flows through a network of small channels and, as it slowly evaporates, leaves salt deposits in the pools. Salt has been extracted in Maras since pre-Inca times, and generations of local producers are believed to have maintained these terraces and channels for hundreds of years.

We will continue along a beautiful route to Urubamba, considered the heart of the Sacred Valley, where we will stop to enjoy a buffet lunch.

After approximately thirty more minutes of travel, we will arrive in Ollantaytambo, where many local residents still live in ancient stone houses built by the Incas. During the visit, you will see the impressive Temple of the Sun, stone water fountains, stairways, and terraces, while also learning about local traditions, all surrounded by the mountains and valleys of Patacancha and Willoq.

After completing your visit to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, you will check in at your hotel. In the evening, you will have free time to enjoy dinner on your own at one of the excellent restaurants located near the town center.

Overnight stay in Ollantaytambo
Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel.

Day 6: First Day of the Inca Trail – Km 82 – Wayllabamba

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Ollantaytambo between 7:30 and approximately 8:00 a.m. From there, we will travel for about one hour to Km 82, the official entrance point to the Inca Trail.

Upon arrival, we will complete the corresponding entry procedures. To enter, you must present your admission ticket along with your passport or the identification document used when making your reservation.

The hike begins at an approximate altitude of 2,720 m.a.s.l. After passing the checkpoint, we will cross a bridge over the Vilcanota River and officially begin our Inca Trail adventure.

This first day is relatively accessible and is considered an acclimatization day, as much of the route follows moderate terrain. During the hike, we will enjoy impressive Andean landscapes and observe important historical sites.

Along the way, we will enjoy views of Huillca Raccay, the archaeological site of Llactapata, also known as Patallacta, the Urubamba mountain range, and the impressive snowcapped W’akay Willca, also known as Verónica, which reaches an altitude of approximately 5,860 meters.

We will continue hiking until we reach Wayllabamba, where our first campsite is located at an approximate altitude of 3,300 m.a.s.l.

  • Overnight camping in Wayllabamba
  • Meals included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch, and dinner

Day 7: Second Day of the Inca Trail – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo

This will be one of the most challenging days of the Inca Trail, as we will reach the highest point of the entire route: Warmiwañusca Pass.

After enjoying an energizing breakfast at our Wayllabamba campsite, we will begin hiking progressively uphill along a trail surrounded by Andean landscapes and abundant vegetation.

As we continue, the surroundings will gradually change as we gain altitude. We will pass through different ecosystems, including cloud forest areas and high-Andean zones, as we continue toward Warmiwañusca Pass.

After several hours of climbing, we will reach Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, located at approximately 4,200 m.a.s.l. (13,779 ft). This is the highest point of the Inca Trail and one of the greatest challenges of the entire hike.

From the summit, we will have time to rest, recover our energy, and enjoy the impressive views of the mountains and valleys surrounding this part of the route.

Afterward, we will begin descending along a mountain trail toward the Pacaymayo Valley. Along the way, we will enjoy different high-Andean landscapes and, with a little luck, observe some bird species native to the area.

Finally, we will arrive at our campsite in Pacaymayo, located at approximately 3,600 m.a.s.l., where we will enjoy dinner and rest after one of the most challenging days of the Inca Trail.

  • Overnight camping in Pacaymayo
  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 8: Third Day of the Inca Trail – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Wiñay Wayna

For many travelers, this is one of the longest days of the Inca Trail, but also one of the most impressive because of the variety of landscapes and archaeological sites visited along the route.

After enjoying a nutritious breakfast at our Pacaymayo campsite, we will begin hiking uphill along a mountain trail until we reach the archaeological site of Runkurakay, located at approximately 3,800 m.a.s.l. (12,467 ft). This complex stands out for its distinctive semicircular structure and strategic location along the route.

We will continue climbing past Yanacocha Lagoon, whose name means “black lagoon,” until we reach the second mountain pass of the route.

We will then descend toward Sayaqmarca, located at approximately 3,600 m.a.s.l. (11,811 ft). Its name can be interpreted as “Dominant Town” or “Inaccessible Town” because of its privileged location on a rocky formation. Here, we will explore its buildings, plazas, channels, and passageways while enjoying impressive views of the Andean landscape.

We will then continue through one of the most spectacular sections of the Inca Trail, passing along stone paths, through tunnels, and across cloud forest areas until we reach Phuyupatamarca, located at approximately 3,665 m.a.s.l. (12,024 ft).

Known as the “City Above the Clouds,” Phuyupatamarca is one of the best-preserved and most unique archaeological sites along the route. From this point, you can enjoy extraordinary views of the mountains and valleys surrounding the Inca Trail.

After a break to rest and recover our energy, we will continue descending numerous stone steps until we reach Wiñay Wayna, where our campsite for the final night of the Inca Trail will be located.

Wiñay Wayna is one of the most impressive archaeological complexes along the route and is located very close to Machu Picchu. Its name means “Forever Young”, and the site is known for its agricultural terraces, Inca structures, and ceremonial fountains.

In the evening, we will enjoy our final dinner with the trekking team. This will also be an opportunity to thank the porters, cooks, and other staff members who accompanied us throughout the adventure.

  • Overnight camping in Phuyupatamarca or Wiñay Wayna
  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 9: Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We will begin the day at 3:30 a.m. After a very light breakfast, we will head to the final Inca Trail checkpoint, located approximately 10 minutes from our campsite, where we will wait until 5:30 a.m. After passing through the checkpoint, we will hike for approximately 1 hour toward Inti Punku, or the “Sun Gate,” where we will witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu. This is also the place where you will have your first opportunity to admire Machu Picchu after 3 intense days of hiking. After admiring the view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, we will continue along the final section of the trail until we reach the location where you can take the classic photograph of this ancient city. Finally, we will enter Machu Picchu! We will descend to the main entrance, where we can leave our backpacks, use the restroom, and enjoy a quick coffee. After our break, we will re-enter Machu Picchu for a walking tour of the mysterious city. According to the new Inca Trail regulations, we will re-enter Machu Picchu using Circuit Number 3. Once inside this modern wonder of the world, you will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour with the same guide who accompanied you on the trek.

Once you have finished exploring the citadel, you will take a bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. Here, you will meet your guide so you can enjoy a final lunch together (optional and not included in the tour price), and your guide will give you your return train tickets to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, you will be transferred by vehicle back to Cusco.

Day 10: Cusco – Free Day

After a well-deserved rest following the completion of the Inca Trail, enjoy a free morning to relax, take care of personal matters, or explore Cusco at your own pace. You can visit Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, surrounded by historic architecture and vibrant local life.

Cusco offers many photogenic spots that are ideal for capturing unforgettable memories. You can visit San Pedro Market, where colorful stalls, fresh produce, and traditional textiles create a lively and authentic atmosphere. For a more peaceful experience, you can head to the San Blas Viewpoint, a charming panoramic spot where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city’s red-tiled rooftops.

You can also spend part of your free time exploring the picturesque streets of the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artistic atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets, and unique local shops and workshops.

Day 11: Rainbow Mountain – Vinicunca

Your day will begin with an early pickup from your accommodation in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Our private transportation will take you south of Cusco toward the town of Cusipata. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival in Cusipata, we will enjoy breakfast.

After breakfast, we will continue our journey toward Rainbow Mountain for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to enjoy beautiful Andean landscapes and observe local wildlife.

We will begin our adventure with an uphill hike lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. During the hike, you will be able to admire snowcapped peaks and extraordinary Andean landscapes. Finally, we will reach the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, where you can admire its distinctive colors and enjoy an impressive view of the surrounding landscape.

After visiting the site and having time to take photographs, we will return along the same trail on an approximately 1-hour-and-30-minute hike. Afterward, we will enjoy lunch and begin our journey back to Cusco, with arrival expected between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m.

Day 12: Cusco – Reception in Puerto Maldonado – Corto Maltés Amazonía

Reception and transfer:
Upon arrival at Puerto Maldonado Airport, you will be welcomed by our staff and transferred to our office in the city. Any luggage you do not need during your stay in the rainforest can be safely stored in our storage area, allowing you to avoid carrying unnecessary items during the excursion.

Afterward, we will head to Puerto Bolívar, where we will board our boat to the lodge. The journey will take approximately 40 minutes along the Madre de Dios River.

Arrival at the lodge:
Upon arrival at Corto Maltés Amazonía, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink prepared with natural seasonal fruits. Your guide will then provide all the information you need for your stay, and you will receive the keys to your bungalow.

Afterward, you will enjoy lunch and have time to rest before beginning the first excursion.

For passengers whose flights arrive after 1:00 p.m., lunch will be served as a box lunch, prepared using 100% recyclable materials.

Forest trail and rubber-tapper camp:
In the afternoon, we will begin our first experience in the rainforest accompanied by a specialized guide. During the hike, you will learn about tropical trees, medicinal plants, and the lush natural environment found within the 60-hectare Corto Maltés Amazonía concession.

We will also visit a rubber-tapper camp, where you will learn about one of the most important traditional economic activities in the Madre de Dios region. This is a recreation of a traditional camp where you can observe the artisanal process of extracting rubber or natural latex, a raw material used to produce many different products.

This hike will last approximately 2 hours.

Free time:
Back at the lodge, you will have free time to relax in the swimming pool or in the hammocks on your bungalow terrace. You can also enjoy an exotic cocktail at the bar, request a relaxing massage from qualified staff, purchase rainforest souvenirs from our handicraft shop, or visit the dock to admire the sunset over the Madre de Dios River.

Night caiman safari:
Before dinner, we will take an evening boat ride for an exciting caiman safari. With a little luck, we may also observe other wildlife species that inhabit the riverbanks.

Dinner:
At the end of the day’s activities, you will enjoy dinner in the lodge dining room.

Accommodation: Corto Maltés Amazonía
Meals included: Lunch and dinner

Day 13: Sandoval Lake – Observation Tower – Brazil Nut Camp

Breakfast:
We will begin the day early, waking up at approximately 5:30 a.m. to enjoy coffee or a hot herbal tea before departing for Sandoval Lake. Your guide will provide you with a breakfast bag, which you will enjoy during the excursion.

Sandoval Lake:
We will travel by boat for approximately 20 minutes along the Madre de Dios River until we reach the Sandoval Lake dock.

From this point, we will begin an approximately 3 km hike through lush tropical forest vegetation, entering the territory of the Tambopata National Reserve.

During the hike, we will observe large trees and, with a little luck, different species of wildlife such as snakes, monkeys—including squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, and capuchins—and various birds, including hoatzins, kingfishers, and anhingas.

Upon reaching Sandoval Lake, we will navigate in small rowboats in search of giant river otters. We will also have the opportunity to observe a wide variety of reptiles, mammals, and birds in their natural habitat.

When the guide finds a suitable location, and while we enjoy nature at its finest, we will be able to enjoy our breakfast.

At the end of the visit, we will make sure all our belongings are accounted for and begin our walk back to the Sandoval Lake dock.

Lunch:
We will return to the lodge to enjoy lunch.

Visit to the observation tower and Brazil nut camp:
In the afternoon, we will visit one of the two observation towers located at Corto Maltés Amazonía. One tower is 20 meters high and the other is 42 meters high.

Both towers were designed for birdwatching and observing other species from above while also providing beautiful views of the surrounding environment and sunset. Your guide will coordinate which tower to visit according to passenger preferences and current conditions.

Afterward, we will visit a Brazil nut camp, where we will learn more about the harvesting and use of Brazil nuts, one of the most important economic activities in the Madre de Dios region.

Free time:
Upon returning to the lodge, you will have free time to enjoy the swimming pool, request a massage, have a refreshing drink at the bar, or visit our boutique.

Dinner:
In the evening, you will enjoy dinner in the lodge dining room.

Accommodation: Corto Maltés Amazonía
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 14: Amazon Farm – Native Machiguenga Family

Breakfast and farm visit:
After traveling approximately 20 minutes by boat, we will visit a farm managed by a local family.

During the visit, we will learn about different seasonal tropical fruits and native regional products such as cacao, plantain, cocona, breadfruit, noni, cassava, and lime, some of which we may have the opportunity to taste.

This farm belongs to a rural family from the area that carefully preserves and cultivates different native species without using chemical products. Some of these products are later taken to the main market in Puerto Maldonado for sale and local consumption.

Lunch:
After the visit, we will return to the lodge to enjoy lunch.

Visit to a native Machiguenga family:
In the afternoon, we will visit a family belonging to the Machiguenga ethnic group, one of the Indigenous peoples of the Peruvian Amazon.

During this experience, we will learn about aspects of their cultural heritage, language, customs, traditional clothing, hunting techniques, handicrafts, and musical expressions associated with traditional ceremonies.

We will also learn how they use different natural resources from the rainforest to make tools, build their homes, and create clothing and ornaments that form part of their daily lives.

This visit will allow us to gain a closer understanding of their traditions and the relationship they maintain with the Amazon environment.

Free time:
Upon returning to the lodge, you will have free time to rest, visit the boutique, cool off in the swimming pool, enjoy a cocktail at the bar, or request a relaxing massage.

Day 15: Parrot Clay Lick – Local Market – Airport Transfer – End of the Trip

Parrot clay lick:
We will begin the day early, at approximately 5:30 a.m., with coffee or a hot herbal tea before beginning an approximately 20-minute walk to the parrot clay lick.

Here, we will have the opportunity to observe between 3 and 5 species of parrots as they descend to feed on a special type of clay found in certain areas of the Amazon region. This activity is part of the birds’ natural behavior and will allow us to enjoy an impressive display of colors and sounds in the heart of the rainforest.

Breakfast and free time:
After visiting the clay lick, we will return to the lodge to enjoy breakfast. Afterward, you will have a short period of free time before beginning the transfer to Puerto Maldonado.

Visit to the local market:
After breakfast, we will board our boat and travel back to the city of Puerto Maldonado.

Upon arrival at Puerto Bolívar, our transportation will be waiting to take us first to our office and then to the local market.

We will enjoy a short visit lasting approximately 15 to 20 minutes, during which you will be able to see and learn about different local products that form part of the diet and daily life of Puerto Maldonado residents.

At the end of the visit, we will continue to Puerto Maldonado Airport, where you can complete the corresponding check-in for your flight.

Meals included: Breakfast

Important: The order and schedules of the excursions may be modified by the guide, in coordination with lodge management, according to weather conditions, the physical condition of passengers, and other circumstances that may affect the safe and proper operation of the activities.

Price

Student Discount Requirements

studend card inka trail

STUDENT DISCOUNT:

The student discount is available to students worldwide who meet the requirements of the Peruvian government. It can be applied when purchasing tickets for Machu Picchu directly from the Peruvian government.

To qualify for the student price, make sure you meet the following requirements:

Your student ID must be an original document issued by your university, made of PVC material.

  • The student ID must include the following printed information:
  • University information.
  • Student's name.
  • Student's photograph.
  • The student ID must have a valid expiration date printed on it, which is valid for only one year. For example, if you plan to visit Machu Picchu in 2024, the expiration date on your ID should be 2024 or 2025. If you visit Machu Picchu in 2024, the maximum allowed expiration date is 2025.
  • The student discount is available only for students 25 years of age or younger.
  • The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is not valid for the discount, even if it meets the requirements mentioned above.
  • The only accepted document for the student price is the original student ID that meets the requirements set by the Peruvian government. Other documents, such as certifications or virtual cards, are not accepted as proof of student status.
  • To request the student price, please send a photo of both sides of your student ID to inkatrailbackpacker@gmail.com when booking the tour. If you send it later, you will not be eligible for the student discount.
  • Feel free to contact us if you have further questions or need assistance.

Additional upgrades for the Tour

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $70 USD (subject to availability).
  • Machu Picchu Mountain: $70 USD (subject to availability)
  • Upgrade from the Expedition Train to the Vistadome Observatory Train: $80 USD per segment

Train Schedule

The return train schedule at the end of the Tour/Trek corresponds to the Expedition Train, departing at 6:20 p.m. or 7:00 p.m., depending on availability.

If you prefer an earlier train for your return journey, we can arrange it for an additional cost of $35 per person. Available departure times are 2:55 p.m. or 4:35 p.m. We also offer the option of booking the 3:40 p.m. Vistadome train for an additional cost of $65 per person. Please let us know in advance which train schedule you prefer. Keep in mind that none of the reserved trains arrive directly in Cusco; they only arrive at Ollantaytambo or Poroy stations. In either case, we will make sure transportation is coordinated to pick you up and transfer you back to Cusco.

Can I change my return train ticket to an earlier departure at the Aguas Calientes train station?

Yes. You can make this change personally at the Aguas Calientes train station. However, you will need to pay an additional fee for the ticket change, and it will be subject to seat availability and train schedules.

How long does the return trip to Cusco take?

The return trip to Cusco takes approximately 3 hours. First, you will board a train in Aguas Calientes, which will take you to Ollantaytambo train station in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Then, a representative from our office will be waiting for you outside the station with a sign displaying your name to transfer you back to Cusco by car or van, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Finally, you will be dropped off at your hotel or hostel. You will receive your train tickets once you have completed your Machu Picchu tour.

What to Bring

Travel Documents and Essentials

  • Original passport and copies.
  • Airline tickets and travel documents.
  • Your travel insurance information.
  • Credit or debit cards and some cash in Peruvian soles and U.S. dollars.

Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime use, such as T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts.
  • Warm clothing for high-altitude destinations, such as a fleece, sweater, and thermal layers.
  • Waterproof or windproof jacket, or a rain poncho.
  • Comfortable pants for hikes and excursions.
  • Shorts or lightweight pants for lower-altitude areas such as Lima and Ica.
  • Hat or cap for sun protection.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Swimsuit for the Chivay hot springs or hotel pools.
  • Sleepwear.

Footwear

  • Comfortable shoes for city tours, museums, and cultural visits.
  • Sturdy footwear with good traction for Rainbow Mountain, Colca Canyon, and Machu Picchu.
  • Sandals or flip-flops for the hotel or downtime.

Accessories

  • Small daypack for daily excursions.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Travel towel, optional.
  • Camera, cell phone, and chargers.

Health and Hygiene

  • High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
  • Mosquito repellent, especially for Machu Picchu and warmer-climate areas.
  • Personal medications and a small first-aid kit with adhesive bandages, pain relievers, and any medications you normally use.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Personal hygiene items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and deodorant.

Altitude Preparation

  • Altitude sickness medication only when recommended by a medical professional.
  • Energy snacks such as nuts, chocolate, or granola bars.
  • Hydration tablets or powdered electrolytes.

Optional Items

  • Travel pillow for long journeys or overnight buses.
  • Waterproof phone case or dry bag for activities on Lake Titicaca.
  • Light scarf or buff for protection from dust, especially in desert areas.

Recommendations

  • Travel light and dress in layers, as temperatures can vary considerably between the coast and the high Andes.
  • For high-altitude hikes, prioritize technical or quick-drying clothing.
  • During excursions, always carry a small daypack with water, sunscreen, documents, warm clothing, and other essential items.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book the package to secure my Machu Picchu entrance?

We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, especially if you are traveling during the high season.

Machu Picchu entrance tickets are sold for specific time slots and circuits, and availability may sell out several months in advance.

Booking early allows us to better arrange your admission ticket, visiting time, available circuit, train tickets, and other services related to Machu Picchu.

If you book with little advance notice, we can check the available options, but we cannot guarantee a specific circuit or entry time until the tickets are officially confirmed.

How does the group service work during the 15-day package?

This package combines private or coordinated transfers with group tourism services in the different destinations. During excursions, you may share the service with other travelers, while our representatives coordinate the transfers, tickets, and included services according to the itinerary.

Pickup times and the details of each excursion will be confirmed in advance by our team.

What type of accommodation is included in the package?

The package includes accommodation for 14 nights distributed among Lima, Nazca, Arequipa, Chivay, Puno, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes.

We work with different hotel categories, so you can select the option that best fits your needs and budget. The category and available hotels will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Hotel availability may vary depending on the season and how far in advance the reservation is made.

Can the itinerary schedule change during the trip?

Yes. The listed times are approximate and may be modified due to weather conditions, traffic, train availability, buses, entrance tickets, flights, or other operational circumstances.

Any necessary changes will be communicated by our team in a timely manner while making every effort to maintain all activities included in the program.

What meals are included during the trip?

The package includes only the meals specifically mentioned in each day’s itinerary.

Scheduled services include breakfasts and lunches on certain excursions, such as the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and other tours included in the program.

Any breakfasts, lunches, or dinners not specified in the itinerary must be paid for directly by the traveler.

How are transfers between the different cities on the itinerary coordinated?

During the 15-day package, transfers are provided through a combination of tourist transportation, intercity buses, trains, and coordinated transfers between hotels, terminals, and airports.

Our team will inform you in advance about pickup times, meeting points, and the details of each transfer. At destinations where applicable, a representative will be waiting for your arrival to assist you and transfer you to the selected hotel.

Some routes, such as Nazca – Arequipa, Chivay – Puno, and Puno – Cusco, are operated using tourist services or scheduled buses, while the journey to Aguas Calientes is by train.

We recommend being ready in advance for each departure and following the indicated schedules, especially for bus and train services.

What kind of weather will I experience during the 15-day trip?

During the trip, you will experience different weather conditions due to Peru’s geographic diversity.

Lima, Paracas, Ica, and Nazca generally have milder or warmer climates, while Arequipa, Colca, Puno, and Cusco can experience considerably lower temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.

At high-altitude destinations such as Puno and Rainbow Mountain, temperatures can drop significantly. For this reason, we recommend bringing lightweight clothing, thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, and several warm layers.

How much luggage can I bring during the trip?

Because the program includes overland transfers, tourist buses, trains, and different hotels, we recommend traveling with practical luggage and avoiding unnecessary items.

For daily excursions, we recommend using a small daypack where you can carry water, sunscreen, documents, a camera, warm clothing, and personal items.

Specific luggage restrictions established by the railway company may apply to the train journey to Aguas Calientes. Our team will inform you in advance about the conditions that apply to your service.

What should I keep in mind regarding altitude?

During this trip, you will visit several high-altitude destinations, including Cusco, Puno, the Colca Valley, and Rainbow Mountain.

We recommend getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, avoiding intense physical exertion during your first hours at altitude, and following your guide’s instructions.

If you have a medical condition or regularly take medication, we recommend consulting your doctor before traveling and informing us of any relevant information before your arrival.

Do I need to be in good physical condition to take this package?

You do not need to be an experienced traveler, but we do recommend having a basic level of physical fitness, as the itinerary includes hikes, archaeological visits, and activities at high-altitude destinations.

Most tours are conducted at a moderate pace and accompanied by professional guides. However, some activities, such as Rainbow Mountain, require greater physical effort because of the hike and altitude.

If you have a medical condition, difficulty walking, or concerns related to altitude, we recommend informing us before booking so we can advise you appropriately.

Can I modify any activity in the itinerary?

Yes. Depending on availability, some activities may be modified, replaced, or extended before the reservation is confirmed.

We can also evaluate additional services, different hotel categories, special admission tickets, or complementary activities.

Any modification may result in a change to the final package price and will be subject to availability.

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