YOUR GUIDE TO THE INCA TRAIL &

The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most renowned hikes, traversing the heart of the Peruvian countryside and taking travellers deep into the Andean mountains. Your reward? The ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu - one of South America’s greatest treasures! If you’re planning a visit, our essential guide can tell you everything you need to know before your journey.

THE PATH TO MACHU PICCHU The path to Machu Picchu involves a few more logistics than normal, with options including trains, treks & buses. For the more adventurous traveller, popular treks include the classic Inca Trail with a 4 day camping option or a 2 day trek with an overnight town stay, along with the Salkantay and Lares treks which also feature cultural experiences, daily hikes, and lodge accommodation throughout. For those who are unable to hike, or if you’re pressed for time, there are a variety of rail journeys available. For a day trip to Machu Picchu, all you need to do is jump on a train from Cuzco or the and you are on your way! MACHU PICCHU IN A NUTSHELL

Every year, millions of people flock to the mysterious Incan ruins at the citadel of Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site treats travellers to giant agricultural terraces, intricate stone constructions, and stunning hilltop views out across the Andean Mountains.

THE THE LLAMAS OF MACHU PICCHU Overlooking the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu is Machu Picchu isn’t just famous for its ancient ruins - it is nestled within the towering peaks of the 2,430 also well-known for its llamas! Along with alpacas, these metres above sea level. Archaeologists believe the site was creatures are the only inhabitants of the citadel. Llamas once used as a sacred sanctuary and royal estate for the held a special place in ancient Incan society, providing leaders of the Incan empire. During the Spanish conquest wool, food and a way for people to transport goods. On in the 16th century, some 100 years after its construction, a visit to Machu Picchu, you may just be treated to a the Incas abandoned the citadel and the knowledge of llama photo-bomb! this grand city faded from historical memory. This architectural treasure had been hidden for more than four ENTRANCE TICKETS centuries before its “rediscovery” on July 24th, 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Its impressive stonework has been well- To access Machu Picchu, you will need to purchase an preserved over the years, featuring over 200 monuments entrance ticket before your visit. There are four types including various temples, caves, astronomical structures, of tickets, all of which include access to the Inca site, and water fountains. Due to the location of this famous with some also offering visits to museums and nearby citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the only way mountains: to get to there is by rail and bus or by trekking the famous Inca Trail. Planning ahead is key! • Machu Picchu solo • Machu Picchu + • Machu Picchu + Machu Picchu Mountain WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT? • Machu Picchu Museum Machu Picchu is open year-round, but the best time to visit is generally from late-April to mid-June or from September through to October. July and August tend The Peruvian government has implemented restrictions to be the busiest months with plenty of sunshine and on the number of people who can visit the Machu Picchu dry weather, while the rainy season runs from October ruins each day. All entrance tickets are now issued with a through to April. In February, the Inca Trail closes for it’s set time, allowing a maximum of 4 hours at the site for annual month-long maintenance. No matter what time each ticket issued. Your first visit to the ruins must be of the year you travel, you should always expect crowds. with a guide where you will follow a set route. THE ROAD TO MACHU PICCHU MACHU PICCHU BY RAIL

If you’re unable to hike to Machu Picchu, you’re pressed for time, or you simply want a laid-back travel option, you can board a train! Enveloped by dramatic canyon walls, you’ll enjoy a scenic rail journey as you travel along the Urubamba River in Peru’s Sacred Valley.

TRAIN TRAVEL BELMOND HIRAM BINGHAM The quickest way to travel to Machu Picchu is to take the Dine and dance your way between Cuzco and Machu train to Aguas Calientes, departing from Cuzco or the Picchu aboard this enchanting luxury train. Inside the Sacred Valley. This charming town is located in the valley 1920s-style carriages, be whisked into the glamour of a below the mountains, making it the perfect overnight base bygone era with gleaming woods, fine fabrics and antique for Machu Picchu visits. The journey to Aguas Calientes fittings. Here, elegance and old-fashioned charm come is roughly 3 1/2 hours from the nearest train station to first. As you glide through the Andes, you’ll experience Cuzco, and approximately 90 minutes by train from the the magic of the mountains while sampling a host of station at in the Sacred Valley. artisanal delights paired with the finest wines.

Rail experiences to choose from include the Vistadome train, or a luxury rail journey aboard Belmond Hiram Bingham, named after the famed explorer who rediscovered the city’s ruins. While you can definitely visit the citadel on a simple day trip, we do highly recommend an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes if you have time to do so. The town has a lovely local market and some beautiful hot springs which inspired its name.

VISTADOME TRAIN The Vistadome train has large panoramic windows beside and above your seat, offering unparalleled photo opportunities and superb views of the passing scenery. Surrounded by glass on all sides, you will feel as if you are a part of Peru’s remarkable landscape. As you make your way to Machu Picchu, you’ll be treated to traditional music, delicious cuisine, and dances inspired by the ancient culture of the Andes. THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL

For those who have the time and would like to experience an active adventure, the trek to Machu Picchu is simply stunning. There are a range of trekking options available to suit every budget, comfort level and fitness ability, with treks running between 2 to 7 days.

ACCLIMATISATION TIP 4 DAY INCA TRAIL TREK We recommend you have 2-3 nights in Cuzco or the The classic Inca Trail is a 4 day camping experience, Sacred Valley prior to trekking to allow you to acclimatise starting from Km 82 and ending at Machu Picchu. to the higher altitude. While the trek itself is not physically challenging, it does reach altitudes of up to 4,200 metres. Sleeping bags and THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL camping equipment are included, and porters will carry The most well-known option is the classic Inca Trail.The up to 7kgs of baggage for you while you trek. route runs from Peru’s Sacred Valley up to the ruins of the citadel, winding its way through ancient pathways, lush 2 DAY INCA TRAIL TREK valleys, and the soaring Andean Mountains. Originally laid Should you not have the time or the fitness to enjoy the during the Incan empire in the 15th century, it formed part classic 4 day Inca Trail, you may opt to do the 2 day trek of a vast system linking more than 23,000 kms of trails to with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. This begins important settlements across South America. The trail is at Km 104 and includes trekking to the ruins of Wiñay famous for being able to access Machu Picchu through Wayna, followed by an up hill hike to the site of Machu the citadel’s Sun Gate (Intipunku). From here, trekkers Picchu. The next day, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the catch their first breath-taking glimpse of the ruins from ruins. the best panoramic viewing spot on the mountain. PERMITS Permits are required for treks, with a limit of 500 per day (including Porters). These often sell out well in advance, so booking ahead is essential.

For both options, you can trek on a small group tour with set departures, or on a private basis. Should you wish to upgrade your trekking experience, we can offer the Luxury Inca Trail Trek which includes premium tents with camp beds, a private chef and masseuse. Enquire for more details about booking this experience. TREKKING TO MACHU PICCHU

Although the Inca Trail is the most well-known Machu Picchu trek, there are also the Lares, Salkantay & Choquequirao trails. These offer daily hikes, cultural experiences, and lodge accommodation throughout.

THE LARES TREK SALKANTAY TREK The Lares Trail is a great option for people who want to The 7 day Salkantay Trek is physically more challenging. mix local experiences with lodge based accommodation. Following in the footsteps of the Inca, it winds its way from The trek offers the chance to explore the beautiful Sacred Cuzco through to the legendary ruins at Machu Picchu Valley of the Incas, which is full of incredible Incan sites. via forested canyons and the Vilcabamba Mountains. Here, you can also see traditional weavers attired in Highlights include the exquisite beauty of the Salkantay colourful dress, roving herds of alpacas and llamas, and Peak and Humantay Glacier Lake. Throughout the trek, a panorama of waterfalls, snow peaks, and glacial lakes. you will enjoy the comfort of mountain lodges, with the last night spent in the town of Aguas Calientes below the You can enjoy 5 or 7 day Lares trekking options. ruins before your tour of the Citadel the following day. Programmes are designed to offer different daily hikes for a variety of experience and abilities, along with a range of alternative activities for people who don’t want to hike. You will stay in comfortable mountain lodges built in the towns of Lamay, Ollantaytambo and Huacahuasi. These serve as deluxe base camps for day hikes in the surrounding areas. There are fixed departures, or you can join an exclusive group from Cuzco with an expert guide who will be with the you for the entire journey.

NOTE: You should be physically fit and have some trekking experience to complete the Salkatany Trek.

Should you be after a more adventurous experience, then we can also suggest the Choquequirao Trek. The ruins here are believed to be up to three times larger than Machu Picchu and will leave you speechless! WHAT ELSE IS IN THE AREA?

We highly recommend some sightseeing and time spent in the surrounding cities and towns near Machu Picchu, particularly to ease acclimatization before treks, but what do they offer?

CUZCO CITY LAKE TITICACA This charming city was once the Inca ‘Capital of the Lake Titicaca, known as the ‘Birthplace of the Incas’, is World’ and now serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. an absolute must see on a visit to Peru! In the middle of Situated at just under 4,000 metres above sea level, it is the lake you’ll find the Island of the Sun, where the first the perfect place to base yourself for a few nights before Inca king is said to have been born. Here, you can learn tackling the altitude in the mountains. There is plenty more about the crops and lifestyle of the Incas, as well as to do and see here, including visits to the Incan citadel learning how the amazing traditional totora reed boats of Sacsayhuaman on Cuzco’s outskirts and in were made. The lake itself is the highest navigable body of the city centre, which is one of the most important Inca water in the world, set between Peru and Bolivia. temples in the area. Intricately decorated cathedrals are also scattered throughout the city, treating travellers to a slice of colonial history. A variety of treks are also available in the area, including Peru’s famous Rainbow Mountain and a hike to , known as ‘the Inca spa’ due to its crystal clear waters.

SACRED VALLEY The Sacred Valley, including the towns of Pisac and Urubamba, have a much lower altitude than Cuzco, sitting at just over 3,000 metres above sea level. Travellers concerned about altitude sickness in Cuzco can begin their journey in the Sacred Valley, or opt to stay here for the duration of their Machu Picchu trip. Pisac’s bustling markets are not to be missed, while the large stone terraces and ancient ruins at Ollantaytambo will complete your Inca history wish-list. After a long day of activities, or even for a weekend break after hiking to Machu Picchu, travellers can visit the small village of Lares and soak away their stress in the beautiful hot springs! WHAT IS THE ACCOMMODATION LIKE? Below is a “shortlist” of our favourite properties near Machu Picchu. By no means is it the entire selection and we are more than happy to book your own favoured option!

EXPLORA SACRED VALLEY | URQUILLOS INKATERRA PUEBLO | AGUAS CALIENTES Just an hour’s drive from Cuzco you’ll find the Explora Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is an intimate Sacred Valley Lodge. As it is situated at nearly 600 metres Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone lower than Cuzco, acclimatisation to altitude is much pathways and whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in easier here - by the time you return to the city, you won’t Peru’s cloud forest. The hotel is a member of the National even notice the higher altitude! Over 30 included tour Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, situated on 12 options by vehicle, foot or by mountain bike are inspired acres of exquisite natural beauty. Guests can enjoy bird by its unique geography, Incan ruins and the authenticity watching with over 200 species in the area, nature walks of its people. Here, travellers can explore the colonial in the forest, orchid trails, visits to the Tea House, twilight history of Cuzco, discover isolated villages, and marvel walks under the stars, and the flora and fauna at the at archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo, , nearby native farm. Buses to the citadel of Machu Picchu Chinchero and Pisac. The hotel is located in one of the depart the hotel in fifteen minute intervals, beginning region’s most remote and ancient corn plantations. just before dawn with the last bus returning at 5:30pm.

BELMOND MONASTERIO | CUZCO Moments from Plaza de Armas is an ancient monastery that has been at the heart of Cuzco city for centuries. Dine by candlelight among the cloisters, explore interiors rich with art and antiques, and uncover the secrets of Peru’s national drink with a pisco lesson. Belmond Hotel Monasterio is a true jewel in the treasure trove of Cuzco. Every room is different, but all have absolute luxury in common. Be inspired by rich wood furnishings and antique paintings, perfectly complemented by crisp white sheets. Choose between cosy quarters and spacious suites fit for royalty with historical quirks.

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