Adventure in the Andes: The Inca Trail 2026 – Heart of Travel

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Sneak Peek Trip Details

Day 1

Day 1

Upon your arrival at the airport, be greeted by one of our dedicated Heart of Travel tour leaders, ready to accompany you to your accommodations. After settling in and taking some time to relax, join us for a warm and flavorful welcome dinner at a charming local restaurant, where you'll have the opportunity to connect with fellow group members and tour leaders while indulging in mouthwatering local cuisine that highlights Peru's rich culinary heritage. This delightful evening sets the stage for an exciting journey ahead, filled with small business development, cultural exchange, and unforgettable experiences that will create lasting memories of Peruvian hospitality and the vibrant tapestry of traditions and landscapes that make this country so captivating.

Day 2

Day 2

We will head to Pisac, where the wonders of the Andean highlands await. Arriving at the Amaru Community, you're greeted with warmth and hospitality, stepping into a world where ancient traditions come to life. Explore the Parque de la Papa alongside knowledgeable guides, delving into the rich biodiversity of native Andean crops and the cultural significance they hold for local communities. Continue your adventure with a scenic drive to the Paru Paru Community, where the heartwarming tradition of Pachamanca awaits.Participate in a hands-on Pachamanca cooking experience, where meats, potatoes, and vegetables are cooked slowly underground, infusing the food with smoky flavors. Following a short trek to the serene Kinsaqocha Lagoon, indulge in a delectable lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients in the picturesque setting of Paru Paru Community.

Day 3

Day 3

Begin our day with a visit to the charming Chincheros Community, where ancient traditions still thrive amidst the stunning backdrop of the Andes. Explore vibrant markets brimming with handmade textiles and intricate crafts before indulging in a sumptuous lunch featuring traditional Andean flavors. Continue your adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, where imposing terraces and ancient ruins whisper tales of a that era. As the day draws to a close, check into your hotel, where comfort and peace await. For those seeking a deeper connection to the spiritual essence of the Andes, an optional Despacho Ceremony offers a profound opportunity to honor Pachamama, the revered Mother Earth.Conclude your day with a family-style dinner, where the flavors of Peru come alive in a feast of culinary delights, offering a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Day 4

Day 4

Embark on a remarkable journey to the starting point of the legendary Incan Trail, where an epic 4-day trek through the Andean mountains to the majestic Machu Picchu awaits, immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley and the ancient ruins that dot its landscape. As you hike along ancient pathways, you'll not only witness awe-inspiring natural landscapes but also delve into the rich history and cultural significance of the Inca civilization. Embrace the spirit of exploration as you challenge yourself both mentally and physically, pushing your limits and discovering the depths of your own resilience. Experience the profound impact of nature's wonders, the transformative power of cultural exchange with local communities along the trail, and the exhilaration of personal achievement as you reach the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu.
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Perú

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$4,195 USD

Deposit: $1,250

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What's Included Image

What's Included

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  • 6 nights of accommodation at 3 and 4-star hotels and 3 nights in extra comfort campsites.
  • 23 Meals: 9 breakfast, 8 lunches, 6 dinners, including tip, water, and 1 alcoholic or premium non-alcoholic beverage (it doesn’t apply in campsite).
  • Bilingual Heart of Travel Tour Leader & Tour Guide.
  • In-country transport: Ground, air, and water as indicated on the itinerary.
  • Tickets, workshop, and entrance fees.
  • Dignified compensation to drivers, guides, artists, artisans, and all local hosts.
  • Pre-trip communication and resources for clients.
  • Whatsapp Group Chat.

Frequently Asked Questions

& our Heart-felt Answers

  • What documents do I need for The Inca Trail checkpoint?

    Original passport, a copy will not be accepted, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months to enter and exit Peru.

  • What type of shoes should I bring?

    Light and comfortable hiking boots or shoes. Make sure they fit not too tight or loose. They should provide enough room for your toes. For the campsite we suggest bringing resting shoes or sandals.

  • What should I bring in my daypack?

    You'll be carrying a small daypack with the personal items you will need during each day (due to local regulations, this backpack should not exceed 25 liters) and you should bring:

    - Hat and sunglassessunglases; at high elevation the sun can be rather intense and you'll need to shield your eyes and face from UV rays.

    - Rain gear; although we will be visiting during the dry season it is always better to be ready in case it rains. Look for gear that keeps you dry while allowing your skin to breathe such as Gore-Tex or eVent waterproof technology. 

    - Warm layers; Fleece or long-sleeved tops, layering system, consisting of a base-layer, mid-layer and waterproof layer.

    - Sunscreen; a high factor sunscreen and generously apply it before heading out on the trail. Additionally, protect your lips using lip balm with SPF protection.

    - Bug spray; when selecting your bug spray, choose one containing DEET or picaridin to keep bugs at bay and allow you to enjoy your hike without being bitten by insects. 

    - Quick-dry towel or small towel; it's a must-have for anyone hiking the Inca Trail. It will help you stay dry and comfortable during your hike and speed up your drying time when sweating it out on the trail.

    - Hand sanitizer; carrying a small bottle with you throughout the day would be ideal.

    - Toilet paper and wet wipes; there are plenty of restrooms along the Inca Trail, take toilet paper inside a plastic bag.

    - Personal medication; although we will bring a first-aid kit for the group, please bring personal medicine that works for you; prescription and over-the-counter medicines for common issues such as headaches, stomachaches, allergies or others you may need. 

    - Camera, extra batteries/powerbank; Pack a pair of spare batteries for your camera, phone and other devices you may carry since battery life of electronic devices will be used faster at high altitude. Also, pack a power bank to keep your devices powered up along the way.

    - Toothbrush and paste; make sure the brush and paste are small , compact and suitable for camping.

    - Headlamp; it is vital for anyone embarking the Inca Trail. Not only will light the way in the dark but it will allow you to keep you hands free. 

    - Snacks; energy-packed granola bars, chocolates or nuts mix that provide you of fuel without making you sluggish during the hike.

    - Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks and tips. Small change helps pay for using toilets on the first day).

    - You will already be able to rent walking sticks for the duration of the trek for $16 USD

  • What should I put in the Duffle Bag?

    We will provide you with a duffle bag to pack items you don't need to carry during the day. Our porters on the Inca Trail will carry this bag for you throughout the trek. Please note that this bag should weigh a maximum of 7 kg including the sleeping bag and mat or air mattress. These 2 items weigh about 3 kg. During the trail, you will pass on zones of different temperatures as you climb and descend.

    - Sleeping bag; it can be rented for $20 USD for the entire trek (let us know if you need one in advance) or you can bring your own, it should be a sleeping bag that fits your height and size and remember to pack it in a waterproof bag. We suggest sleeping bags suitable at -10°C.

    - Air mattress; we will provide you an air matress, having an extra layer to sleep will make your hike more comfy and enjoyable. 

    - Shoes for campsite; after a long day walking with your hiking boots or shoes you may want to have something lighter to wear at the campsite.

    - Warm jacket; temperatures can drop sharply at night so it is ideal to have a few warm layers you can wear on during the nights. A good base layer will help to regulate your body temperature, while an insulating layer will keep your warm even when gets cold. And do not forget to pack a hat and gloves.

    - 4 to 5 t-shirts; A synthetic fabric like polyester or nylon is a good option, as it will wick away sweat and dry quickly. Avoid cotton shirts, as they will hold onto moisture and can cause chafing.

    - 2-3 hiking pants/trousers; there are two main types of hiking pants, cargo and convertible pants. Leggings work as well!

    - 4 sets of undergarments; wearing sport bra and compression shorts will help keep you comfortable and prevent chafing. Also, pack enough pair of socks.

    - Extra batteries or powerbanks; essential to charge your devices at night.

    - Plastic bags; to keep wet or muddy clothers separate. 

    - Any other personal items you won't need during the day.

  • What do we mean by “Responsible Travel”?

    We define a responsible traveler as someone who takes the time to develop a basic understanding of the culture, history, language, and socio-political climate of the host country through pre-trip research and educational activities that engage them with the local community during their time in that country. In addition, the Responsible Traveler seeks to support small business development by shopping at small, locally owned businesses and supporting independent artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs through meet and greets, as well as interactive workshops, classes, and demonstrations. Finally, a Responsible Traveler strives to minimize the negative impact of their visit on the environment and always considers animal welfare when planning their itinerary.

  • What is the group size on a Heart of Travel tour? 

    Heart of Travel's small group tours are limited to between 8 and 12 people, depending on the trip. In the case of Spanish Immersion trips, we will take a maximum of 8 students/travelers. For most other Heart of Travel trips, we limit the number of students to 10, with the exception of trips during major holidays such as New Year's Eve or Día de Muertos. 

    *In the event that there is 1 space left on a trip and two people want to travel together, we may allow an 11th or 13th person on some trips.

  • Who will be my tour leader? 

    Once a trip becomes available for registration, a Heart of Travel Tour Leader will be tentatively assigned to the trip. You can find this information on the detailed itinerary available on Travefy.com or the Trip Plans mobile app. However, as our 2024 calendar continues to fill, we may need to make adjustments to the Tour Leader schedule, so Tour Leader assignments more than 4-months out from the trip’s start date are subject to change. All of our Tour Leaders are friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced and share Heart of Travel's passion for transformative travel, small business development, and meaningful exchange. They are fully bilingual, first aid certified, and passionate about education, cultural immersion, and small business development in Latin America. Each of our Tour Leaders offers a unique personality, perspective, and passion to share with you during the trip. Whether it's Pam with her sommelier and mixology knowledge, Eimy's trekking experience and passion for coffee, Chiva's love of marine life and environmental conservation, or Allie’s photography skills and interest in human rights, we know you'll have a wonderful trip with each of these incredible women as your Tour Leader!

  • What does double occupancy mean?

    Double occupancy spots are for people traveling with a companion OR for someone traveling solo who is open to being paired with another solo traveler of the same gender to share a room. When you sign up for a double occupancy spot, please indicate if you are traveling with someone and if so, who, and how many beds are needed in the room (1 or 2). In the event, there is an uneven number of double occupancy sign-ups, a trip participant may end up rooming with a Tour Leader for parts of the trip or will be given the option to upgrade to a single supplement if desired.

  • What does single occupancy mean?

    Single occupancy spots are for travelers who want their own room and bathroom. This applies to solo travelers who are not traveling with a roommate and do not wish to be paired with another trip participant. To secure a single occupancy spot, please select the "single supplement add-on" at the time of registration. If you have any special requests for your room please let us know. 

  • How does roommate assignment work?

    If you are traveling with your partner, please let us know so we can arrange a double room with 1 bed, typically a queen or king. 

    If you are traveling with a friend, please let us know so we can room you two together in a room with 2 beds, typically 2 full beds, however, in some destinations it could be two twins. 

    If you are traveling alone but would like to be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender, please provide us with any useful information about what you’d be looking for (or not) in a roommate, as well as anything we should know about you. Light sleeper? Early riser? Night owl? Do you snore? Are you sensitive to scents and fragrances? Do you have any allergies to take into consideration? The more information we have the easier it will be for us to match you with the ideal roomie to share this exciting adventure with! 

  • What are "additional nights"?

    Oftentimes travelers desire to add on an extra night of accommodation at the beginning or end of the trip. You can book additional nights through Heart of Travel by adding them to your cart at the time of registration. Likewise, they can be added later if you are unsure of your plans at the time of enrollment. Note the price is per room, not per person.

  • Will Heart of Travel help me book my international airfare?

    Heart of Travel does not book international airfare for trip participants nor are we responsible for changes or delays in your reservation or flight. However, we will be more than happy to research and provide information on suggested flights. Simply provide us with the airport code for any airports that work for you to fly in/out of and we will be glad to take a look! 

  • I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered to?

    Heart of Travel is happy to accommodate all dietary restrictions and preferences. However, in certain destinations (mostly remote rural areas or small villages) specialty options may be limited. Therefore,  while we will always find a way to accommodate you, some meals may feel a little repetitive. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any dietary requirements or allergies and we'll pass the information along to your Tour Leader, as well as all hotels and third-party providers. It is also a good idea to bring a card with your dietary requirements written in the local language in case you find yourself eating away from the group without the Tour Leader available to assist you.

  • What will the food be like on my trip?

    Food is undeniably one of the most thrilling aspects of traveling. While you may come across some familiar dishes, the true excitement lies in encountering new, intriguing, and sometimes bizarre culinary creations from around the world. We view trying this array of new foods as a sensory adventure. When you embark on any of our Heart of Travel trips, you can expect to immerse yourself in the local cuisine in all its diverse forms. From enjoying meals at cozy local eateries known as "comedores" to indulging in elaborate multi-course feasts crafted by up-and-coming young chefs who expertly blend traditional flavors with modern techniques, food plays a central role in our travel experiences. It serves as a tangible expression of a country's culture and soul. Alongside the native delicacies of the host country, our trips also include a few opportunities to dine at restaurants that offer an international menu and cater to a variety of tastes.

  • Can I drink the tap water in the countries I visit?

    Drinking tap water isn't recommended in most of the countries we operate in but is typically fine for brushing your teeth and taking a shower. While it can be challenging, we encourage you to avoid buying plastic water bottles during your trip and instead, bring a reusable water bottle. Your Tour Leader will indicate where you can refill your bottle with safe drinking water at the hotel and will also have purified water available in the van, so if you need a refill just ask! Likewise, you can look into getting a water bottle with a built-in filtration system, such as LifeStraw.

    *In the event of Cuba, sadly the use of single-use plastic water bottles is more difficult to avoid. We will do our best to provide free refills with safe drinking water during all Cuba trips, however, if it’s not available we will provide you with individual bottles and keep you hydrated for the entire trip!

  • Do I need traveler’s insurance?

    While Heart of Travel does not require travelers to purchase insurance, we highly recommend that they do. Those who choose to purchase traveler’s insurance are responsible for arranging this on their own, though we recommend booking with Insured Nomads. Regardless, we encourage you to look for a policy that covers medical expenses, injury, death, rescue, repatriation, cancellation, and curtailment. Likewise, if you are nervous about a last-minute cancellation due to a global pandemic, a personal health issue, or any other reason then we highly recommend looking into a “Cancel for no reason” policy. We recommend you take out your insurance at the time of booking and double-check the small print to ensure it covers all activities you are involved in. 

  • What types of vaccinations or medications will I need?

    In general, US passport holders visiting most Latin American countries do not need additional vaccinations, unless they have recently traveled to a high-risk country. However, we highly recommend referring to the Heart of Travel Welcome Packet specific to your destination country for the most up-to-date information. 

    LIkewise, it is always prudent to schedule an appointment with your general practitioner or a travel nurse clinic prior to your trip. They can provide personalized advice regarding any necessary precautions, such as obtaining a typhoid-fever shot, taking anti-malaria pills, or medication to mitigate altitude sickness. Your health and safety are our utmost priority, so seeking professional guidance ensures a worry-free journey.