Discover Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in one smooth 7-day adventure. This complete package gives you time to explore the Inca capital, visit the best of the Sacred Valley, acclimatize naturally, and hike the legendary Inca Trail all the way to the Sun Gate.
Enjoy a premium small-group experience with hotels, entrance tickets, transportation, fresh meals on the trail, quality camping gear, a personal porter, private portable toilets, and a scenic return on the panoramic Vistadome train. It is one of the best ways to experience Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Classic Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu without stress.
Duration 7 Days 6 Nights
Activities Hiking, Adventure, Archaeology
Average Group Size 12
Accommodation Camping, Hotel
Tour Language English, Spanish
Destinations Cusco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, Machu PicchuClassic Inca Trail + Sacred Valley 7 Days
The Inca Trail 7 Days tour to Machu Picchu brings together the best of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the legendary Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in one complete 7-day / 6-night journey. You will explore the ancient capital of the Incas, visit local markets and archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, and then hike Peru’s most iconic trekking route to reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized experience from arrival to departure. Your first days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley help you acclimatize while discovering places such as Plaza de Armas, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Pisac, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo. Then, you begin the Classic Inca Trail from Km 82 and walk through Andean valleys, cloud forest, high mountain passes, and impressive Inca sites before arriving at Machu Picchu.
Travel in a premium small group with expert local guides, fresh Peruvian meals, quality camping gear, a personal porter, private portable toilets, airport transfers, hotels, entrance tickets, and the return on the panoramic Vistadome train. Operated by a 100% Peruvian local tour operator, this package follows responsible trail practices, fair porter treatment, and sustainable tourism standards that help protect the Inca Trail and support local communities.
Tour Highlights:
- Complete 7-day package: Enjoy Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, Classic Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu in one seamless itinerary.
- Cusco City Tour included: Explore the historic center, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and Cristo Blanco.
- Sacred Valley experience: Visit an alpaca farm, Taray viewpoint, Pisac, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo.
- Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Hike the original Inca route through archaeological sites, cloud forest, high passes, and the Sun Gate.
- Premium small-group service: Travel with expert local guides, smooth logistics, hotels, camp support, and better personal attention.
- 100% Peruvian local operator: Travel with a Cusco-based team that knows the region, the trail, and the culture from the inside.
- Responsible trekking: Fair treatment for porters and sustainable practices that help protect the trail and support local communities.
- Vistadome train included: Return from Machu Picchu through the Sacred Valley on a scenic panoramic train journey.
Inca Trail 7 Days at a Glance:
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
You will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel in Cusco. At 1:00 p.m., start your Cusco City Tour and explore Plaza de Armas, Qoricancha, the 12-Angled Stone Street, Loreto Street, San Blas, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and the White Christ viewpoint.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour
After breakfast, travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit an alpaca farm, Taray viewpoint, Pisac archaeological site, Pisac Market, Moray terraces, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo. Spend the night in a hotel near Ollantaytambo, close to the start of the Inca Trail.
Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Km 82 – Llactapata – Ayapata
Start your Classic Inca Trail adventure with a transfer to Km 82, the official trailhead. Hike through Andean landscapes, small villages, and fascinating archaeological sites such as Willkaraqay and Patallacta before reaching Ayapata, your first campsite.
Day 4: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Runkurakay – Chaquicocha
Wake up with coffee or coca tea in your tent and prepare for the most challenging day of the Inca Trail. Cross Dead Woman’s Pass and Runkurakay Pass, visit impressive Inca sites, and camp at Chaquicocha.
Day 5: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna
Enjoy one of the most beautiful days of the route, with cloud forest, mountain views, and remarkable archaeological sites such as Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna.
Day 6: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Wake up early for the final stretch of the Inca Trail. Reach the Sun Gate for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu, then explore the citadel with your guide. In the afternoon, return by bus, panoramic Vistadome train, and private transport to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 7: Depart Cusco
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport according to your departure flight.
- Campsite locations may change depending on availability and final campsite assignment.
- Inca Trail permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially in high season. Book early to secure your preferred departure date.
Included:
- Safety orientation before your Inca Trail trek
- Complimentary luggage storage
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Cusco City
- All transportation from beginning to end
- Return on the panoramic Vistadome train
- All entrance tickets in Cusco and the Sacred Valley
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance fees
- Professional English-speaking tour guides
- All camping gear carried by the porter team
- Duffle bag and personal porter for up to 7 kg / 15 lb
- Daily meals on the trail prepared by expert chefs, plus water and snacks
- 1 buffet lunch in Urubamba during the Sacred Valley Tour
- 2 nights at a 3-star hotel in Cusco (San Agustin or similar)
- 1 night at a 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo (Tunupa Lodge, Cocatambo, or similar)
- 3 nights camping in comfortable tents
- 4-person tents for every 2 trekkers
- Dining tent with tables and chairs, plus private portable toilet tent
- Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, and hand towels
- First-aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phone
Not Included:
- Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, and trekking poles (available to rent)
- Lunch on the last day after the Machu Picchu tour
- Optional entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Meals not mentioned
- International or domestic flights
- Travel insurance
Machu Picchu Circuits Included:
- Circuit 1-C: This route is used by Inca Trail hikers who arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. It gives access to the upper panoramic viewpoints, where you can enjoy wide views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
- Circuit 3-B: This circuit gives access to the lower and central area of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Palace, the Twelve Niches, the Warehouses, the Temple of the Condor, and the Water Mirrors.
The combination of Circuit 1 and Circuit 3 gives you a complete Machu Picchu experience: the famous panoramic view from above and a guided visit through the most important areas inside the citadel.
Optional Hikes After the Machu Picchu Tour
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$68 per person, 2-hour round-trip.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: US$68 per person, 3-hour round-trip.
You can only hike one of these mountains, and advance booking is required because tickets are limited.
Why Book with TreXperience?
- 100% Peruvian local operator: Book directly with a Cusco-based team that knows the region, the trail, and the logistics from the inside.
- Premium small-group service: Enjoy a more personal experience with expert guides and better support throughout the trip.
- Fair treatment for porters: We follow responsible porter welfare standards and respect the team that makes the journey possible.
- Fresh Peruvian food: Enjoy meals prepared with local ingredients during the Sacred Valley experience and on the trail.
- Quality equipment: Comfortable tents, sleeping pads, dining tent, kitchen tent, and private portable toilets on the Inca Trail.
- Sustainable tourism: Responsible operations designed to reduce impact and support local communities.
- Smooth logistics: Airport transfers, hotels, tickets, transportation, permits, luggage transfers, and return train are organized for you.
Full Itinerary of the Classic Inca Trail + Sacred Valley 7 Days
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, we will pick you up and drive to your hotel located in the historic center of Cusco. You will have time to rest, settle in, and begin adjusting to the altitude before the afternoon tour.
The cultural half-day tour begins at 1:00 p.m. with a guided visit through the heart of the city. We start with a short walking tour through the Plaza de Armas, the famous 12-Angled Stone Street, the artistic quarter of San Blas, Loreto Street, and the beautiful Inca temple of Qoricancha.
Afterward, private transport will take you to the impressive archaeological sites above the city: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and the White Christ viewpoint. At the end of the tour, we return you to your hotel.
- Duration: Half-day
- Meals: None included
- Entry tickets: Cusco City Tour tickets included
- Hotel: San Agustin or similar
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour
After breakfast at your hotel, your Sacred Valley tour begins at 7:00 a.m. After meeting your guide, we set off to visit an alpaca farm, where you can learn about Andean camelids and traditional weaving. Then, we stop at Mirador Taray for beautiful panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Next, we continue to Pisac to explore its iconic ruins and browse the Pisac Market. Then, enjoy lunch made with local ingredients in Urubamba. In the afternoon, we drive to the circular terraces of Moray, visit the unique Maras Salt Mines, and finish the day with a guided tour of the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress.
You will spend the night in a cozy hotel near Ollantaytambo town, close to the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. This makes the next morning smoother and gives you a better start for the trekking section.
- Duration: Full day
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, buffet lunch in Urubamba
- Entry tickets: Included
- Hotel: Cocatambo Hotel or similar
Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Km 82 – Llactapata - Ayapata
Today your Classic Inca Trail adventure begins. After breakfast, we pick you up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo and drive to Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. At the trailhead, you will meet the trekking team, present your original passport at the checkpoint, and begin the hike.
The first day of the Inca Trail is a rewarding introduction to the route. You will walk alongside streams, pass through local villages, and explore the archaeological site of Willkaraqay, with views of Patallacta from a lookout point. Your guide will explain the history of the route and the importance of these first Inca sites.
After a fresh lunch prepared by our trekking chef, we continue toward Ayapata, your first campsite, located at 3,300 m / 10,826 ft. Your tents will be ready when you arrive, and you can relax with hot drinks before dinner.
- Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
- Duration: 6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
- Highest Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Ayapata – Warmiwañuska – Runkurakay – Chaquicocha
After a restful night, start the morning with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea in your tent and prepare for the most challenging day of the trail. Today’s hike takes about 10 hours and crosses two mountain passes.
The first climb takes about 4 hours to reach Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft. Reaching the summit is a proud moment and one of the great achievements of the trek. After taking time to rest and enjoy the views, we descend for about 2 hours to Pacaymayu for a well-earned lunch.
After lunch, we climb for 2 hours to Runkurakay Pass at 4,000 m / 13,123 ft, then continue another 2 hours down to our second campsite at Chaquicocha. Along the way, you will visit important Inca sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Conchamarca.
- Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
- Duration: 10 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Day 5: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna
With the most challenging part behind you, this day feels more relaxed and scenic. The route is full of changing ecosystems, magnificent views of the Vilcabamba Mountain range, and beautiful Inca sites.
After breakfast, begin a 5-hour hike through one of the most beautiful sections of the Inca Trail. Along the way, you will visit Phuyupatamarca, also known as the City in the Clouds, Intipata, the Terraces of the Sun, and Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca sites on the route.
After lunch, visit the fantastic Wiñay Wayna archaeological site with your guide and enjoy your last dinner on the trail, including a special farewell moment with the trekking team.
- Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
- Duration: 5 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
- Highest Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 6: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Wake up early for the final stretch of the Inca Trail. After breakfast, we walk to the last checkpoint and begin the hike toward Intipunku, the Sun Gate. This is the moment many travelers dream of: your first view of Machu Picchu from above.
From the Sun Gate, continue down toward the citadel through Circuit 1, where you can enjoy the upper panoramic viewpoints and take classic photos of Machu Picchu. Afterward, you will enter through Circuit 3 for a guided visit of the main highlights of the Inca sanctuary.
After the tour, take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, board the Vistadome panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco. Drop-off at your hotel is usually around 7:30 p.m.
- Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi
- Duration: 2-3 hours of hiking, plus guided tour
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast and snacks
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Day 7: Depart Cusco
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy your final morning in Cusco. At the scheduled time, we will transfer you to the airport according to your departure flight. This marks the end of your Classic Inca Trail + Sacred Valley 7 Days experience.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
- Transfer: Airport transfer included
- Difficulty: Easy
Classic Inca Trail + Sacred Valley 7 Days Price and Booking
This 7-day package combines Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, and the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in one smooth itinerary. Your price includes airport transfers, hotels, entrance tickets, Inca Trail permits, professional guides, transportation, camping logistics, fresh meals on the trail, porter support, and a scenic return on the panoramic Vistadome train.
Join one of our premium small-group departures for a more personal experience, or choose a private Inca Trail 7 Days tour for more flexibility, privacy, and a more exclusive service. If you are traveling with family or friends, contact us for a customized quote based on your group size and travel preferences.
Small-Group Tour: Price Per Person
| Traveler Type | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| Adults | From US$990 |
| Children and students | From US$960 |
Private Tour: Price Per Person
| Number of Participants | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 participant | US$2,950 |
| 2 participants | US$1,850 |
| 3 participants | US$1,520 |
| 4 participants | US$1,380 |
| 5 participants | US$1,290 |
| 6 participants | US$1,200 |
| 7 participants | US$1,150 |
| 8 to 16 participants | US$1,100 |
| 17+ participants | Contact us for a special rate |
Booking and Payment
- Deposit: US$400 per person to secure your booking. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco by credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us if you need an alternative payment option.
- For each traveler, we require the full name exactly as shown on the passport, passport number, date of birth, passport expiration date, and nationality. Please do not use nicknames, as permits and tickets must match your official travel document.
- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergy-friendly meals, and other dietary restrictions must be communicated in advance.
Student and Child Discount
- US$30 off
This discount applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To qualify, the ID must include:
- The student’s name, photo, and university name
- A valid expiration date (expired IDs will not be accepted)
- ISIC cards are not accepted
The child discount is applied automatically. Students must send a copy of their valid university ID when booking. If the ID is not accepted by the permit office, the adult rate will apply.
Before You Book
- Accommodation includes a 3-star hotel in Cusco and a hotel in Ollantaytambo or the Sacred Valley, based on double occupancy in a twin or double room.
- Vegetarian and vegan meals are available upon request.
- Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets are limited, so early booking is strongly recommended, especially for high-season dates.
How to Book
To book this tour:
- Click the BOOK NOW button, choose your travel date, and select how many people will be joining.
- Fill in all requested details with your passport information.
- Enter your credit or debit card details and make the payment.
- Our team will contact you shortly to reconfirm your payment and send more information.
7 Day Inca Trail Tour Packing List
The Inca Trail Tour 7 Days is a complete package that includes city tours in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the Classic Inca Trail hike. During the 7 days of the tour, you will stay in hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and then camp on the Inca Trail.
When you stay in a hotel, you will have access to your main luggage. TreXperience will help transfer your bags when we change hotels. On the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you will only need to carry your daily essentials.
For the Inca Trail section, plan to carry up to 5 kg / 11 lb in your daypack and up to 7 kg / 15 lb in your duffle bag. Any remaining belongings can be stored safely at your hotel in Cusco or in the TreXperience storerooms.
TreXperience Includes in the Inca Trail Section
- 1 duffle bag up to 7 kg / 15 lb for your personal items. This bag will be transported between camps by TreXperience porters and will not be accessible during the day, so daily essentials should be packed in a separate daypack.
We recommend carrying a daypack weighing no more than 5 kg, with your daily essentials such as water, snacks, light clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, and personal items. You will carry this backpack throughout the hike.
Because you will be camping on the Inca Trail, you only need your essential trekking gear for the 4-day hiking section. Your main luggage will be transferred from the Sacred Valley to our secure office in Cusco for storage.
Essentials
On Day 1, the Cusco City Tour lasts approximately 5 hours. Your main luggage will remain safely at your hotel. Please take only a small backpack with your essential items.
On Day 2, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, so please bring all your luggage. Your bags will stay secured in the vehicle during the Sacred Valley Tour and will be delivered directly to your hotel in Ollantaytambo, near the start of the Inca Trail. Again, carry only a small daypack with your daily essentials.
What to Wear?
This package includes city sightseeing, the Sacred Valley, and the Classic Inca Trail, so dressing in layers is the best approach. In Cusco and the Sacred Valley, wear comfortable walking shoes, light layers, sun protection, and a good rain jacket.
On the Inca Trail, weather can change quickly as you move from valleys to high mountain passes and cloud forest. Wear breathable layers that are easy to add or remove throughout the day.
What to Pack in the Daypack?
Pack your daily essentials in a lightweight, comfortable daypack, especially for your Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour.
For the Inca Trail, your daypack can be slightly larger. We recommend a 25- to 35-liter backpack with a rain cover. Large or bulky backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu and must be stored in a locker. This rule applies to physical size, not only capacity, so if yours is slightly larger but does not look bulky, it should be fine.
What to Pack in the Duffle Bag?
Place the items you will use during the nights camping on the Inca Trail in this bag. Your duffle bag will be carried by our porter team from camp to camp. Remember that you will not have access to these items during hiking hours.
Keep your duffle bag within the 7 kg / 15 lb limit, including your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring or rent them. Packing light makes the trek more comfortable for you and supports responsible porter welfare standards.
What We Provide
TreXperience provides the following items for the Inca Trail to help you enjoy a safer, more comfortable, and better-organized trekking experience.
What Can You Rent with TreXperience?
If you forgot something or prefer to travel lighter, you can rent the following camping items from us for an additional cost.
See our complete guide on the blog: Packing List for the Inca Trail.
Useful Information About the 7 Day Inca Trail Trek
Cusco has always attracted curious and adventurous travelers. This Cusco, Sacred Valley + Inca Trail 7 Days journey invites you to discover the history of this remarkable land, combining ancient temples, impressive Inca architecture, living Andean culture, and a challenging trek to the world-renowned Machu Picchu, followed by a scenic return on the panoramic Vistadome train.
Location
This Andean adventure begins in Cusco, the historic Inca capital, continues through the fertile Sacred Valley, and culminates with the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek through the mountains to reach the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Classic Inca Trail is connected to the historic Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System, the ancient road network that connected the Inca Empire across the Andes.
History
This itinerary takes travelers through Cusco’s rich past, with a special focus on the legacy of the Inca civilization. You will visit the historic city of Cusco, important sites across the Sacred Valley, the Classic Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu.
The route brings together the Inca Empire era, visible in stonework, terraces, and ceremonial sites; the Spanish Colonial period, when churches and plazas were built over Inca foundations; and today’s living culture, where Andean traditions continue alongside modern Cusco life.
Altitude and acclimatization
The altitude on this trip ranges from around 2,600 m / 8,530 ft to the highest point at Dead Woman’s Pass, 4,215 m / 13,829 ft. Overnight stays vary in elevation, with the lowest Inca Trail camp at Wiñay Wayna, 2,600 m / 8,530 ft.
This itinerary is designed for steady, progressive acclimatization. Your first day in Cusco and your second day in the Sacred Valley help your body adjust before starting the Classic Inca Trail.
To understand altitude symptoms and prevention before traveling, review this official guidance on Travel To High Altitudes.
Weather and best time to travel
Weather along the route varies with altitude and season. May to September is generally drier, with strong sun during the day and cold nights. November to March brings more frequent showers and cloudier afternoons.
The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance. Even during the dry season, weather can change quickly, so you should be ready for sun, wind, cold mornings, and possible rain.
For more detailed planning, read our Inca Trail Weather guide or check the official Machu Picchu weather forecast before traveling.
Difficulty
Difficulty can vary from day to day. The Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour are mostly vehicle-supported, with short guided walks and some stairs at archaeological sites.
The Inca Trail section is more demanding. You should be prepared for high altitude, long hiking days, stone steps, steep climbs, and long descents. The most challenging day is the climb to Dead Woman’s Pass.
Cusco Tourist Ticket and entrance tickets
This tour includes the main entrance tickets required for the Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour. Many of the archaeological sites around Cusco and the Sacred Valley are managed through the Cusco Tourist Ticket system.
You can review official information about the Cusco Tourist Ticket BTC - COSITUC. TreXperience will handle the required entrance tickets included in your package.
Inca Trail permits and booking timing
The Classic Inca Trail requires a special permit and can only be booked through an authorized tour operator. Independent entry is not allowed. Permits are limited and issued with each traveler’s passport information.
The most requested dates often sell out months in advance, especially from May to September. Because this package includes the Classic Inca Trail, your space is only guaranteed once your Inca Trail permit has been officially secured under your name.
Before choosing your date, check our Inca Trail Availability page.
Hotels, luggage, and transfers
The package includes hotel nights in Cusco and Ollantaytambo before and after the trek. Rooms are based on double occupancy in twin or double rooms. Airport pickup and drop-off are included, making this a smooth package from arrival to departure.
During the city and Sacred Valley days, you will have access to your main luggage. Before starting the Inca Trail, your larger bags will be transferred to secure storage in Cusco, and you will hike only with your daypack and the duffle bag provided for the trek.
Porter support and responsible travel
During the Inca Trail section, our porter team carries the camp equipment and your duffle bag within the allowed weight limit. You only carry your daypack with daily essentials.
TreXperience operates with responsible porter welfare standards, including fair treatment, proper support, and respect for the people who make the Inca Trail experience possible. We also follow sustainable tourism practices designed to reduce impact on the trail and support local communities.
Entering Machu Picchu after the Inca Trail
On Day 6, you will reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate and enter the site using the circuits assigned to Inca Trail hikers. This package usually combines panoramic access through Circuit 1 with a guided visit through Circuit 3, giving you both the classic view from above and access to important areas inside the citadel.
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Historic Sanctuary Of Machu Picchu Protected Area, so visitor rules are strict. Large backpacks, food, drones, tripods, and some other items are restricted.
You can review the Official Machu Picchu Circuits And Routes or read our Machu Picchu Tickets guide for more details. For official visitor information, visit the Machu Picchu Official Website.
Inca Trail 7 Day Frequently Asked Questions
The Classic Inca Trail + Sacred Valley 7 Days package is a complete journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu. Below are the most common questions about the itinerary, hotels, permits, difficulty, food, packing, and what to expect before booking.
What is the difference between the Classic Inca Trail 4 days and the Inca Trail 7 days?
The Classic Inca Trail 4 days focuses only on the trekking route from Km 82 to Machu Picchu. It includes camping, hiking, Inca sites, the Sun Gate, and the guided visit to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail 7 days is a complete package that includes arrival in Cusco, a Cusco City Tour, a full Sacred Valley Tour, hotels, airport transfers, and then the Classic Inca Trail. It is ideal if you want one organized itinerary with culture, acclimatization, trekking, and Machu Picchu included. Prefer the trek only? See our Classic Inca Trail 4 Days.
Which places do I visit during the Cusco City Tour?
The first day includes an afternoon Cusco City Tour. You will explore the historic center with places such as the Plaza de Armas, the 12-Angled Stone Street, Loreto Street, San Blas, and Qoricancha. Then, you continue by vehicle to the archaeological sites above the city: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay, and the White Christ viewpoint.
Which places do I visit during the Sacred Valley Tour?
On Day 2, you will enjoy a full Sacred Valley Tour. The usual route includes an alpaca farm, Taray viewpoint, Pisac archaeological site, Pisac market, buffet lunch in Urubamba, Moray terraces, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo.
The route may be adjusted slightly depending on weather, road conditions, timing, or operational needs, but the goal is always to give you the best Sacred Valley experience before starting the Inca Trail.
What type of accommodation is included?
This package includes hotels in Cusco and Ollantaytambo before and after the trek. Rooms are usually based on double occupancy in twin or double rooms. Hotels are typically 3-star in Cusco and 2-star or similar in Ollantaytambo, depending on availability.
During the Inca Trail, you will camp in comfortable tents. We provide spacious tents for every 2 travelers, plus a dining tent, kitchen tent, sleeping pads, pillows, hand towels, and private portable toilets.
Do I need to arrive 2 days before the tour date?
No. This 7-day package already includes 2 days before the Inca Trail for acclimatization: Day 1 in Cusco and Day 2 in the Sacred Valley. These days help your body adjust while you explore important cultural and archaeological sites.
If you are sensitive to altitude or prefer a slower start, arriving one extra day earlier can still be helpful.
What type of food will be served on the Inca Trail?
During the Sacred Valley Tour, you will enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba. During the Inca Trail trekking days, our trekking chef prepares fresh, varied, and nourishing meals using local ingredients.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergy-friendly meals can be prepared when requested in advance. Please let us know your dietary needs at the time of booking.
How do I get Inca Trail permits for this 7-day package?
Once you book and send your passport details, our team will secure your Inca Trail permit if spaces are available. These permits are limited and must be booked through an authorized operator.
We recommend booking early, especially if you plan to travel from May to September. You can check available dates on our Inca Trail Availability page.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after the tour?
Yes, if tickets are available. You can add Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain after the guided visit, but advance booking is required because mountain tickets are limited.
For this 7-day package, we recommend checking timing carefully. In some cases, adding an extra night in Aguas Calientes may make the experience more comfortable.
What should I pack for the Inca Trail 7 Days tour?
Pack for city tours, hotel nights, and the Inca Trail camping section. Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, rain gear, sun protection, warm clothes for the trail, toiletries, personal medication, passport, and a small daypack.
For the Inca Trail section, you will use a duffle bag with a 7 kg / 15 lb limit and carry a daypack with daily essentials. Before traveling, review our Inca Trail Packing List.
Is this package good for first-time visitors to Peru?
Yes. This is one of the best options for first-time visitors who want a complete experience without organizing every detail separately. It includes airport transfers, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, hotels, transportation, and return train.
It is especially useful if you want to acclimatize before the trek while still making the most of your time in Cusco.
How difficult is the Inca Trail section?
The Inca Trail section is moderate to challenging. The hardest day is Day 4 of the full package, when you cross Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft and continue over another high pass.
The first two days of the package help with acclimatization, but you should still prepare with walking, stairs, hill hikes, and basic cardio before your trip.
Is the Inca Trail 7 Days package safe?
Yes, when operated by a licensed and experienced team. The main challenges are altitude, fatigue, stone steps, changing weather, and long hiking days. Our guides carry first-aid equipment, oxygen, and satellite phones during the trek.
Safety also depends on preparation, honest communication with your guide, proper acclimatization, and following trail instructions.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend travel insurance. A good policy should cover trekking activities, medical care, evacuation, trip interruption, and personal belongings.
This is especially important because Inca Trail permits are date-specific, and the trekking section takes place in remote mountain areas.