Ultimate Inca Trail

Ultimate Inca Trail

15 Views
6 Days From

$1615

$1444

Ultimate Inca Trail

6 Days Starting and ending in Cuzco

Visiting: Cusco, Lares Valley, Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

INCAT20

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

0 - 10

Physical rating:

High

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Camping

From: $1615 $1444 Operator discount: -$171 -11%

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

See the Andes and then some on this incredible Inca extravaganza. Conquer the Lares Valley Trek and the Inca Trail (plus Machu Picchu) in 6 jaw-droppingly splendid days. Visit some of the most isolated communities in Latin America. Absorb yourself in a world of ancient cities, glacial lakes, waterfalls and mountain views. Plus ancient hot springs. And LOTS of llamas.

Highlights

  • Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral San Blas and Coricancha.

  • Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals

  • Lares Valley: Enjoy the views of the Colquecruz and Pitusiray mountains plus a bird’s eye view of mountains reflected in glacial lakes.

  • Inca Trail: hike begins – 6000 feet above sea level! Our first Inca site lies waiting for us after crossing the Urubamba river on a picturesque foot bridge.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Cusco

Location: Cusco

Accommodation: Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar)

Welcome to Cusco! You'll meet your fellow Inca Trail adventurers today, before spending the morning on a city walking tour to get orientated. Then it's time to explore Cusco your way. With artisan shops, colonial architecture and delicious local cuisine, you'll be spoilt for choice. You could also use this time to grab any last-minute items before your trek…how many socks DOES one person need?

Day 2: Cusco To Lares Valley Trek

Location: Cusco, Lares Valley

Accommodation: Inca Trail Camping

Accommodation Name: Inca Trail Camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rise and shine, Inca explorers! Today is all about the Lares Valley adventure vibes - after we leave Cusco bright and early. We’ll start the trek by making our way to Cancha Cancha, with a spot of lunch along the way – enjoyed by the river and prepared by the trekking chef (oh yeah!). Over 12,000 feet high, say hello to an isolated and traditional community that’s sustained itself for hundreds of years. They introduced electricity in winter 2019, but there are still no roads. Tonight, after we’ve pitched our tents, you’ll have the chance to visit a local family and learn all about life in a traditional Andean village. Your guide will be on hand to interpret, and after dinner, you’ll be treated (even further) to the great Inca constellations – which the locals still use for agricultural guidance to this day.

Day 3: Lares Valley Trek

Location: Lares Valley

Accommodation: Camp, Inca Trail ing

Accommodation Name: Inca Trail Camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

To the summit we go! (But not before another delicious brekky.) Today’s 7-hour hike will be peppered with true Andean delights – glaciers, lakes, alpacas, rugged valleys and spectacular mountain vistas. Eyes on the sky for the Caracara falcons and Andean geese!After we reach the summit (plus take pics and pat ourselves on the back), we’ll visit the Quiswarani community on our way back down – watch out for more llamas along the way. . The local indigenous people will open their homes and hearts to us, and we’ll even get the chance to learn Quechua – the language of the Incas. Tonight, we arrive at the spectacular seven waterfalls, where everything will be ready for you at the campsite. You. Are. Welcome.

Day 4: Lares Valley Trek To Ollantaytambo

Location: Lares Valley, Ollantaytambo

Accommodation: Inca Trail Camping

Accommodation Name: Inca Trail Camping

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Guess what? The best scenery is still to come! Today we’ll head to Willqaqasa Pass, where we’ll be treated to views of the Colquecruz and Pitusiray mountains, plus a bird’s eye view of mountains reflected in glacial lakes. Further along the trail, you’ll visit the Cucani community, connecting with the local indigenous children – with the opportunity to visit their school. Next, it’s time to bathe like nature intended at the Lares Hot Springs (3,100m/ 10,170ft), with one whole hour to soak in the natural volcanic hot springs, have lunch and just… relaxxxx. This afternoon we’ll travel to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll enjoy a sumptuous dinner together and then rest our heads in the hotel. Tomorrow is the big one, so you’ll want to be fresh.

Day 5: Ollantaytambo To Cusco Via Machu Picchu And Inca Trail Trek

Location: Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Cusco

Accommodation: Hotel, Xima Cusco (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We’ll start bright and early today, with VERY good reason. Our first stop is the train station, where we’ll board the Inca express to… you guessed it, the Inca trail. Epic scenery incoming. With heavy hearts, we’ll alight at the famous Km104, where our hike begins – 6,000 feet above sea level! Our first Inca site lies waiting for us after crossing the Urubamba river on a picturesque foot bridge. Beginning with the Sun Gate, and a truly breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. Don’t worry, we have plenty of time to absorb this actual Wonder of the World. So take your time. Savour the moment. Take lots of pics. To make things better, we’re visiting in the afternoon which is when the site is usually empty of other tourists. Our guide will give us a full tour, so you’ll see all the most important parts of Machu Picchu – with minimal hassle. Once we’re done, we’ll take the bus to Aguas Calientes. Then it’s back to Cusco (via Ollantaytambo) to go to sleep as better, more well rounded people with ticks on our bucket lists and cheesy grins on our faces.

Day 6: End Cusco

Location: Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast

And today the Inca adventure ends. Llama just say… It's been a life changing experience for us all, and we can’t wait to do it again.

What's Included

  • Accommodations

    Stay in a mix of hotels and camping sites, including Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar) and Inca Trail Camping.

  • Meals

    Enjoy various meals prepared by a trekking chef, including breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the trek.

  • Transport

    Includes train to the Inca Trail, bus to Aguas Calientes, and transportation back to Cusco.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours of Cusco, Lares Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, including a visit to the Sun Gate.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Visit traditional Andean villages, learn about local indigenous cultures, and experience the great Inca constellations.

  • Activities

    Hiking the Inca Trail and Lares Valley Trek, visiting Machu Picchu, and relaxing in the Lares Hot Springs.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Personal Expenses

    Expenses for personal items and optional activities are not included.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips for guides and staff are not included in the tour price.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 5 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Lunch (L)
  • 4 Dinner (D)

Active

  • Cusco: It’s always best to hang out with someone who knows the trail inside out. That way, we can concentrate on taking epic pics.

Culture

  • Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
  • Cusco: Woo hoo! We’re getting all starry-eyed as we talk to the rest of the Contiki crew about the life-changing moment we’re about to experience.

Included Experience

  • Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
  • Cusco: It’s always best to hang out with someone who knows the trail inside out. That way, we can concentrate on taking epic pics.
  • Cusco: Woo hoo! We’re getting all starry-eyed as we talk to the rest of the Contiki crew about the life-changing moment we’re about to experience.
  • Cusco: We’ve got your back when it comes to organising all the camping stuff. So just bring your fabulous self and a cosy sleeping bag (and maybe some Pringles).
  • Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals

Landmarks

  • Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals

Check out our Q&As

  • What countries does the Ultimate Inca Trail visit?

    The Ultimate Inca Trail visits Peru.

  • What are the highlights of the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?

    Highlights of the Ultimate Inca Trail include exploring Cusco and its markets, cathedral, and San Blas, visiting Machu Picchu, enjoying the views in Lares Valley, and hiking the Inca Trail.

  • Is travel insurance included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • What type of accommodations can be expected on the Ultimate Inca Trail?

    Accommodations on the Ultimate Inca Trail include a mix of hotels and camping sites, including Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar) and Inca Trail Camping.

  • What meals are provided on the Ultimate Inca Trail?

    The tour includes various meals prepared by a trekking chef, including breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the trek.

  • What kind of transport is included in the Ultimate Inca Trail?

    Transport includes train to the Inca Trail, bus to Aguas Calientes, and transportation back to Cusco.

  • Are there any guided tours included in the Ultimate Inca Trail?

    Yes, there are guided tours of Cusco, Lares Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, including a visit to the Sun Gate.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the Ultimate Inca Trail?

    Cultural experiences include visiting traditional Andean villages, learning about local indigenous cultures, and experiencing the great Inca constellations.

  • What activities are included in the Ultimate Inca Trail?

    Activities include hiking the Inca Trail and Lares Valley Trek, visiting Machu Picchu, and relaxing in the Lares Hot Springs.

  • What are the exclusions of the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?

    Exclusions include travel insurance, personal expenses, tips and gratuities, and flights.

  • Where does the Ultimate Inca Trail start and end?

    The Ultimate Inca Trail starts and ends in Cusco.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Saturday

Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 15, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

May 12, 2025 - May 17, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Jun 30, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Dec 22, 2025 - Dec 27, 2025
$1615 $1444

Operator discount: -$171

Monday - Saturday

Jan 12, 2026 - Jan 17, 2026
$1615 $1537

Operator discount: -$78

Monday - Saturday

Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 14, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

May 11, 2026 - May 16, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

Jun 29, 2026 - Jul 04, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

Jul 27, 2026 - Aug 01, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 05, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

Nov 09, 2026 - Nov 14, 2026
$1645

Monday - Saturday

Dec 21, 2026 - Dec 26, 2026
$1645
Prices last published on 07-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.

By submitting this form, I accept Travel Club Elites terms & conditions and privacy policy.

Similar Tours