Machu Picchu | Luxury Lodge-to-Lodge
Discover “The Lost City of the Incas” amongst the timeless peaks of the Peruvian Andes on our 10-day cultural and historical adventure. Travel in style while enjoying the finest accommodations as you traverse the mountains, staying in Machu Picchu Luxury Lodges. Encounter spectacular topography, lush vegetation, and intriguing archaeological sites. Admire the breathtaking views of glacier mountain peaks, fields of boulders cloaked in mysterious fog, and remote cattle drives.
Experience the rich culture of the heart of the Inca Empire first-hand. Let us help you achieve your goal of trekking Machu Picchu today.
Trek Summary
Hotel-based hikes
10 D / 9 N
Up To 12
THE WWTREK ASSURANCE | SUPPORTING YOU THROUGH THE CHALLENGE
Machu Picchu | Luxury Lodge-to-Lodge Activity Rating: MODERATE
The Challenge:
Spend multiple days hiking at high elevations across the Salkantay Pass. The weather in Peru can be unpredictable, so arriving prepared for varying conditions is important.
The Reassurance:
The guide will pace you, but the lodges are within a moderate distance from one another to limit the daily strain on guests. We also bring an emergency horse without luggage to help assist anyone in need of support. Guides will run daily medical checks to ensure proper acclimatization.
The World Wide Trekking Difference
In our Machu Picchu Lodge-to-Lodge Adventure, our WWTrek team has worked closely with our Guides to create an exciting, authentic experience for our guests as they traverse the lands of Peru to the “Lost Land of the Incas”!
WWTrek Accommodations
Along this trek, our guests will stay in Luxury Lodges with all the amenities you could hope for, delicious local cuisine and comfortable accommodations to rest after long days of climbing.
WWTrek Meals
Our highly trained staff is eager to make delicious meals for all our guests, regardless of preferences or allergies. Expect bountiful plates and delicious local flavors as you trek your Peruvian adventure, and enjoy the tastes it brings along the way.
WWTrek Team
Our team of highly trained professional Guides is here to help you every step of the way. From the first point of contact with the office through the end of your trekking experience with us, World Wide Trekking will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared to embark on your journey.
WWTrek Experience
We think it’s imperative to offer our guests the ability to hear from one another. This way, guests can get the nitty-gritty details about the trek… like finding out just how challenging that hike is!
“I can’t stop thinking about my trekking adventure to Machu Picchu…the mountains, Peruvian culture, glaciers, flowers, our guides, the coffee and food, climbing and climbing, amazing lodges, everything exceptional and detailed service. What is difficult to explain are the emotions of this experience…trekking to Machu Picchu and seeing this amazing lost city. Thanks, World Wide Trekking! I look forward to another trip with this organization!” – Christine
“Cusco, the Sacred Valley and ruins at Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Mollepata came to life as we walked the streets and interacted with the Peruvian people. The most astonishing and memorable part of this journey was the Mountain Lodges. These incredibly luxurious lodges overwhelmed me. The food, the accommodations, and the vistas were unbelievable. I can tell you that coming upon these “castles’ after a day of trekking was truly a treasure. To sit in the middle of the Peruvian landscape, away from civilization, and be served a three-course meal on the mountainside was mind-boggling. I felt like royalty.” – Debbie
WWTrek Guest Services
World Wide Trekking boasts an extensive support crew for all of our groups ranging from 8 to 12 people. At headquarters in Salt Lake City, our staff is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. If you’re planning your trip and have a question about which boots to buy, our adventure specialist is just a phone call away.
We provide medically certified, English-speaking guides for all of our adventures. Additionally, you have access to a local operations manager and a plethora of local professionals to aid the group during your trek.
Trek Itinerary
Welcome to Cusco, Peru (11,220') | Transfer to Sacred Valley (9,500')
- International arrivals to Cusco, Peru (CUZ) (11,220′)
- A WWTrek representative will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel in Sacred Valley (9,500′) where the group will meet for a private welcome dinner.
- Overnight: Sol y Luna Hotel or comparable
- Meals included: Welcome Dinner
Sacred Valley Walking Tour (9,500') | Transfer to Cusco (11,220')
- Our time in the Sacred Valley will allow us to acclimate ourselves to the altitude and culture before our trek.
- We will spend our time hiking various ruins and wandering the markets and studios of local weavers, potters, and artisans all while learning about the history and culture of the present people and their Incan ancestors.
- Head back to Cusco (11,220′) for dinner & overnight; Guides will run orientation & gear check.
- Overnight: Palacio del Inka or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Begin the Salkantay Trail | Trek to Soraypampa (12,690')
- Early morning transfer to Cusco to begin our journey along the Salkantay Trail.
- We will begin our trek just outside of Challacancha (11,979′) and will trek through moderate terrain to Soraypampa (12,690′).
- Upon arrival we will relax at our first lodge and enjoy a group dinner with views of the swirling clouds around the Salkantay (20,600′).
- Overnight: Soray Lodge (12,690′) or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hike to Humantay Lake (13,845') and Shaman Ceremony
- Today we will allow our bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude by taking a day hike to Humantay Lake (13,845′) to experience a Shaman Ceremony.
- At the lodge, you can spend your afternoon in the jacuzzi, horseback riding, or relaxing while taking in the encompassing views.
- Overnight: Soray Lodge (12,690′) or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek to Salkantay Pass (15,340') to Huayraccmachay (12,812')
- Perhaps the most challenging day of our trek, we will take our time as we climb and acclimate along the way.
- We will hike up the Rio Blanco Valley, around Humantray Peak, and make our way to the Salkantay Pass (15,340′), the high point on our trek.
- Keeping our eyes on the sky and peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, we may be able to view Andean condors in flight, these are the largest flying birds in the world by combined measurement of weight and wingspan.
- Once atop the pass, we will descend to Huayraccmachay and relax at the Wayra Lodge.
- “Wayra” means wind or “the place where the wind lives.”
- Overnight: Wayra Lodge (12,812′) or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek through the Cloud Forest (12,938') to Collpapampa (9,414')
- Today will be a mellow, downhill day.
- Our scenery will become lush as we trek through the Cloud Forest (12,938′) and make our way to the confluence of three rivers: the Rio Santa Teresa, Rio Salkantay, & Rio Chaullay at Collpapampa.
- We will enjoy a traditional, underground stone-cooked Pachamanca-style lunch at the Copla Lodge.
- Spend your evening relaxing in the mountain air or the jacuzzi.
- Overnight: Colpa Lodge (9,414′) or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek along the Santa Teresa River Valley
- Today’s trek will be split into two moderate hikes.
- The first portion of our day will take us from Collpapampa along the Rio Santa Teresa valley through rural coffee plantations and orchards. Once we reach Loreta, a private vehicle will retrieve us and take us 2.5 miles to the Llactapata Inca Trail.
- There we will continue with a brief hike up to our lodge set in an avocado orchard. There will be ample time to explore the small village of Lucmabamba and meet the locals.
- Overnight: Lucma Lodge (7,003′) or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek over Llactapata Pass (9,240') | Train to Aguas Calientes (6,270')
- We begin today by saying goodbye to the village of Lucambamba and trekking to Llactapata Pass (9,240’).
- From here we will have a distant view of Machu Picchu as we explore the Llactapata Ruins, descending to the Aobamba River through bamboo forests, orchards, and plantations.
- At the river, we’ll find the hydroelectric Train Station and travel 6.2 miles on the Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes (6,270′).
- Overnight: Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Tour Machu Picchu
- We will begin our day of exploration with a private tour of Machu Picchu, guided by a knowledgeable professional.
- After our group tour, you will have time to explore the vast ruins on your own. Climb Huayna Picchu or just relax and take in the intricate architecture and engineering of the ancient city.
- We will have lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge (7,972′).
- In the afternoon, we will board the Observatory Vista Dome Train.
- During this magical ride back through the mountains you will enjoy spectacular views in a relaxing atmosphere, perfect after several exciting days of exploring sacred lands.
- After the train we will continue by bus to Cusco (11,220′) for overnight and a celebration dinner!
- Overnight: Palacio del Inka or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Celebratory Dinner
Cusco, Peru | International Departures
- We will enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and then you may explore Cusco for last-minute shopping, or simply relax at the hotel and prepare for international departure.
- Transfer to Cusco Airport in the afternoon, depending on flight time. (CUZ)
- Meals included: Breakfast
What's Included
- Pre-trip planning, consultation, and customization
- Transportation by private vans, vehicles, and buses throughout
- 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 9 dinners
- 9 nights of luxury accommodations
- Baggage handling throughout the adventure
- All services, tours, hikes, entrance, and excursion fees described in the attached itinerary
- Any necessary permits for trekking, national parks, etc.
World Wide Trekking Lead Guide(s) and local Peruvian guides based on group size (5:1)
- Services of local English-speaking guides throughout
- Services of local porters and staff
- Services of WWTrek Operations Manager in Peru
- Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tours and fees
- Pack horses to carry gear throughout the trek
Not Included
- International airfare (origin > Peru > origin)
- Passports and visas (if applicable)
- Medical expenses and immunizations
- Travel, evacuation, and medical insurance
- Meals or bottled beverages other than those specified in the itinerary
- Items of a personal nature: laundry, soft drinks, incidentals, etc.
- Expenses incurred due to circumstances outside of the control of World Wide Trekking
- Gratuities for guides and crew members
- Tourism Taxes When Applicable
The World Wide Trekking Difference
Shaman Ceremony
Take part in a spiritual Shaman Ceremony. In this sacred ritual guests will receive a blessing from the “Mother Goddess”.
Vista Dome Observatory Train
Relax and enjoy the scenic views on the Vista Dome Observatory Train. Delight in a cold refreshment and light snack as you traverse the dynamic Peruvian landscape.
Luxury Accommodations
The luxury lodges that guests stay in each night offer world-class comfort and dining options. Guests enjoy their time at the lodge in the jacuzzi, getting a massage, or shopping in the local villages.
Cusco, Peru
Cobblestone streets, time to explore, perhaps catch a parade– spend time in one of the oldest city of the Americas, Cusco! Booming cultural center where guests can be fully-immersed in the lively, colorful, culture!
Peruvian Cuisine
Delight in authentic, Peruvian cuisine from beginning to end on this journey. Trying local dishes from the villages we pass through, enjoy different styles of food at each lodge, you won’t go hungry on this exciting adventure!
Travel Notes
Best Time of Year to Visit
The Peruvian winter (May through October) provides the best traveling experience. This dry season still offers largely varying weather conditions and temperatures. Please prepare for a variety of conditions and temperatures ranging between 30 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Arrivals and Departures
This trip begins and ends in Cusco, Peru. You will fly into and out of Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ), Cusco, Peru.
*Many guests prefer to arrive before or leave after the scheduled itinerary. We can help you make arrangements. Additional charges for early arrival, transportation, lodging, meals, and activities will apply.
Recommended Flights
International airfares are not included in program pricing. When booking international travel, we recommend working with an experienced travel agent. One that World Wide Trekking is proud to coordinate with is Brian Mei from Eastern Travel. You can reach Brian directly by calling 801.792.1721 or by email at brian@easterntravel.com. Additional support is always available by calling the Eastern Travel Office at 801.466.8811 or by emailing Michelle at michelle@easterntravel.com.
The benefit of using a travel agent is in the event of itinerary changes, the travel agent will find the best flight connections, and land arrangements, for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, we do not recommend using them, due to instability in the itineraries. We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket.
We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket. Contact AIG Travel Guard to get more information.
Travel Insurance
PERU does not require travel insurance coverage for entrance.
However: The lodges we use in the sacred valley require all travelers to carry med/evac insurance, even a basic one, they do not have a minimum requirement.
We recommend you safeguard your trip by purchasing travel insurance. World Wide Trekking has partnered with AIG Insurance as our preferred travel insurance provider. For a price quote, or to purchase travel insurance, visit
Please Note: You must purchase this plan within 14 days of your deposit payment. Please send us a copy of your plan if you choose to purchase one.
Customs, Visas, Immigration
U.S. Citizens are not required to obtain a visa for travel to Peru.
*Note: Please be sure to have at least six months of validity on your passport. Most countries won’t allow travelers in their country unless their passport is expected to expire six months after the last day of travel. Make two copies of your passport. Leave one at home and bring the other with you to Peru along with two extra passport photos in case of an emergency. Ensure you provide a copy of your passport to WWTrek 90 days before your departure date.
Accommodations
Upon arrival in Peru, you can expect the finest accommodations while staying in lavish lodges such as the Sol y Luna Lodge in Cusco. Enjoy stays in other hotels including the Soraypampa Lodge, Wayra Lodge, and Inkaterra Hotel to name a few.
Health and Safety
Our stringent commitment to safety means you have access to our medically certified guides before and throughout your trip. Our staff also carries emergency medical equipment such as satellite communications and medical kits.
Before the trip, you will need to get a few prescriptions from your physician: Diamox for altitude sickness, Cipro for stomach ailments, and Z-Pack for respiratory ailments. In addition, we recommend visiting your local International Travel Clinic one month before your trip. Needed vaccinations include a current tetanus shot, annual influenza shot, Varicella, Typhoid, Hep A, and MMR.
Helpful over-the-counter medications include Imodium Ad, throat lozenges, ibuprofen, eye drops, and any other personal medications you may need.
For more information, feel free to contact us directly with any questions, at 801-943-0264. We can reschedule a phone call with our medical advisor, Dr. Levy, to answer any specific questions regarding your personal needs.
Gratuities
In many parts of the world, gratuities are given in appreciation for a job well done. Our guides will take care of tipping service personnel along the way so that you don’t have to think about it.
For any additional services outside of our itinerary, plan to tip 10% (transport, restaurants, baggage, lodges, etc). We will provide you with detailed tipping recommendations on your ‘Trip Detail’ site once you sign up.
At the trail end, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a group tipping pool that will be presented to your WWTrekking guides and trekking staff as we say our goodbyes.
Currency Exchange
You will have the opportunity to exchange money after your WWTrek guide escorts you from the airport. You can easily exchange money at gift shops in both Cusco and the smaller villages we visit. Exchange money as you go using your credit card or cash for your expenses at the lodge. Typically, our guests spend about $1,000 for various personal expenses, souvenirs, and incidentals.
Fitness and Nutrition
We provide a complimentary 6-week extensive fitness and nutrition program to help our guests prepare for their journey ahead. The program is tailored specifically for our trips and includes virtual 1 on 1 coaching sessions with our Fitness and Nutrition Specialist.
Gear List
General Information
Country
Peru is a nation of discovery. Between the ever-evolving cultural landscapes of indigenous peoples and Spanish influences, the country provides a multitude of natural wonders and economic growth. With a resurgence in cultural pride and open arms to tourists, Peru offers an old-world destination with an increasingly modern and progressive attitude.
Population
31.2 million
Time Zone
Peru Time (PET) is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Capital City
Lima, Peru
People
Essentially, two populations reside in Peru, the whites and mestizos (people of mixed indigenous and Spanish descent) and the criollos (natives). Many Peruvians believe that being white is somehow better. This belief contributes to inequality issues that permeate Peru’s government and economic sectors. A significant divide exists between the wealthy elite, typically whites and mestizos, and the poor, predominantly the criollos. Many Peruvians subscribe to the tradition that men go to work and women stay at home, although this trend is changing. In addition, the government and the Catholic Church work closely together. The official religion of the military is Roman Catholic while priests and other religious figures receive government stipends.
Culture and Religion
From the cobblestone streets of the Spanish era to the vine-entangled Incan temples hidden among the mountains, Peru boasts a rich and deep-rooted multicultural heritage. In terms of the national psyche, Peru carries its internal struggles related to its tumultuous history such as race, class, gender, and religious issues. Even so, the people continue to maintain solidarity in their devotion to relationships with friends, and family, and the welcoming of guests.
Introduced by the Spanish, Peru’s predominant religion is Roman Catholicism. However, many of the indigenous Peruvians subscribe to their blend of Catholicism and traditional beliefs. Reportedly, 80% of the country is Roman Catholic, with about 15% regularly attending church. Religion is perhaps one of the best examples of how indigenous beliefs have melded with Spanish traditions. Many indigenous people symbolize Viracocha (the creator) as the Christian God and Pachamama (the earth mother) as the Virgin Mary.
Currency
The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN), referred to as the sol. Due to the fluctuating exchange rates, we recommend searching online to find out the current rate before your adventure.
Human Outreach Project
OUR PLANET… HELPING OTHERS, CHANGING LIVES
