Global Philanthropy
Peru & Inka Trail Trek
Discover the lush beauty of Peru – a colorful world filled with natural wonders and ancient civilizations. Make a difference in children’s lives while learning about Peruvian traditions and architecture in Cusco in conjunction with UNICEF. Deliver much needed supplies to both city and rural areas. Get to know the children while helping them with a craft or educational project. Then, travel back in time as you hike the Inka Trail and see the many treasures of the mighty Incan empire that still stand today, including the legendary Machu Picchu. Experience the mysteries of the land while camping in tents, standing atop ridges with breathtaking views, the floating sensation of a cloud forest, and getting up close to wildlife and flora.
Day 1 - New York/Lima
Arrive in Lima, where you are met and escorted to your hotel just three blocks from the Pacific Ocean, or in the residential area of San Isidro next to an ancient olive grove. JOSE ANTONIO EXECUTIVE HOTEL OR EL OLIVAR HOTEL.
Days 2/3/4 - Cusco
Fly to picturesque Cusco, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western hemisphere. In conjunction with UNICEF, which has been working in Peru for over 50 years promoting the rights of children, adolescents and women, you will spend three days forging relationships with children while participating in service work, including delivering educational and medical supplies and food to schools, orphanages and missions in Cusco and the Andean rural areas. While strolling down picturesque streets immerse yourself in the culture – Incan descendents still dress in traditional clothes and speak Quechua, a derivative of the Incan language. Enjoy the Peruvian hospitality of your charming Colonial hotel. POSADA DEL INCA CUSCO OR HOTEL NOVOTEL. (B,L Daily)
Day 5 - Inka Trail: Cusco/Piskacuchu/Wayllabamba
Early this morning, drive to Piskacuchu where you begin your thrilling hike on the stone-paved Inka Trail – starting elevation 8,856 feet. Porters will accompany you and your guide, carrying your belongings (maximum 20 pounds) and camping gear. Ascend slowly along the banks of the Urubamba River to Miskay - elevation 9,184 feet. You are rewarded with spectacular views of the impressive Incan city of Llactapata. Continue along a valley lush with eucalyptus forests and incredible views of majestic Veronica peak towering 19,133 feet above sea level. Arrive five hours later in Wayllabamba – elevation 9,840 feet. Your campsite includes an all-weather tent outfitted with a foam mat and sleeping bag that comfortably accommodates two people, a group toilet tent, hot water provided by porters for washing up and a dining tent complete with a cook to create meals. Safe, boiled water for your water bottle is provided in the mornings. Total distance covered today: 7.5 miles. INKA TRAIL CAMPING SITE. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Inka Trail: Pacaymayo
Rise early and fuel up on a hearty breakfast. Then trek for over five miles on an abrupt and steep ascent that gives way to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. Reach the highest point on the trail, Abra Warmihuanusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) – elevation 13,776 feet – look for llama and alpaca grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at this altitude. After crossing a cloud forest alive with hummingbirds and possibly an Andean bear, descend into the Pacaymayo Valley – elevation 11,808 feet – for a good night’s rest. Total distance covered today: 7 miles. INKA TRAIL CAMPING SITE. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Inka Trail: Winaywayna
Today is your longest trek, filled with interesting habitats and impressive archaeological sites. Climb the Abra Runkurakay pass – elevation 13,022 feet – and explore a small watchtower structure of the same name. Descend into a thick cloud forest filled with tropical flowers and colorful orchids before arriving at the narrow streets, fountains and patios of ancient Sayacmarca – elevation 11,887 feet. After trekking over the third pass, Abra Phuyupatamarca – elevation 12,136 feet – at the end of an Incan tunnel is Phuyupatamarca, one of the best-preserved complexes along the trail. Long descending stone steps deposit you at Winaywayna – elevation 8,692 feet – an Incan complex with agriculture, religious and urban sectors. Tonight, your campsite hosts a trekker lodge, bar and bathroom with hot shower facilities. Enjoy a farewell dinner. Total distance covered today: 10 miles. INKA TRAIL CAMPING SITE. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Inka Trail: Machu Picchu
While it is still dark, climb to The Sun Gate and witness sunrise over the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. Afterwards, descend through the ‘House of Guardians’ to explore the temples, houses, terraces, gardens and altars of this mysterious city and civilization. Marvel at the Andean peaks covered in cloud forest green. Climb Huaynapicchu Mountain, visit the Temple of the Moon or the Inca Bridge. Then travel by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes and your comfortable hotel with panoramic views. Total distance covered today: 2.5 miles. HATUCHAY TOWERS HOTEL OR MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO. (B,L)
Day 9 - Machu Picchu/Cusco
This morning is at leisure before boarding your train to Cusco. You may want to rise early to explore more of the mountain and revel in Machu Picchu’s mysterious and ancient roots. POSADA DEL INCA CUSCO OR NOVOTEL HOTEL. (B,L)
Days 10/11/12 - Cusco/Lima/New York
Explore Cusco’s treasures on a guided tour, such as the Inca Temples of the Sun and the Moon, and the Kenko amphitheatre. Enjoy dinner and a folklore performance at the Tunupa Restaurant. The next morning return to Lima where a dayroom awaits at the JOSE ANTONIO HOTEL OR EL OLIVAR HOTEL. Transfer to the airport this evening for your overnight flight home. (B,D; B)
Your Journey Includes:
- All ground transfers in air-conditioned motorcoach.
- Moderate & rustic accommodations throughout as indicated or similar.
- Tent, sleeping mat & bag provided on Inca Trail trek.
- Services of guide throughout tour.
- All meals as specified.
- All park entry fees.
- All entrance fees to places of interest visited and on sightseeing tours indicated in the itinerary.
- Complimentary passport wallet and baggage tags.
For reservations or more information, please contact:
Classic Escapes at (800) 627-1244
