FITNESS LEVEL: The hiking is considered moderate. Good hiking boots are essential. Our section of the Inca Trail will cover approximately 8 miles throughout the day, with a climb of around 2,500 feet and steps along the trail. Three hiking guides will be present to accommodate different paces. See more specifics under the hiking section.

INCA TRAIL HIKE: We'll journey through stunning Andean landscapes, passing through ancient Inca ruins and traversing rugged terrain. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history and culture of the region. The hike culminates at the Sun Gate, offering panoramic views of Machu Picchu nestled amidst the mountains. This challenging yet rewarding trek provides an unforgettable experience, allowing us to truly appreciate the magnificence of Machu Picchu from a unique perspective. (Please refer to the fitness section below for more details on the day hike.)

**Note: The Inca Trail permits have extremely limited availability and usually sell out quickly once released. YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR THIS TRIP AND SUBMIT YOUR PASSPORT BY NOVEMBER 1, 2025 TO BE GUARANTEED A HIKING PASS. Please be certain your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return flight home.

Permits for the Inca Trail are nonrefundable and nontransferable. If the deadline passes and permits are sold out, you may still join the trip. An alternative option will be provided besides the hike if trip spots are still available.​

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OPTIONAL SECOND HIKE: On the last full day of the trip, you have the option to stay in Cusco, or embark on a full day hike in Huchy Qosqo. This is a stunning hike in the sacred valley 1.5-2 hours drive each way. The hike is approximately 3.5 hours with a maximum altitude of 13,386 ft. There is a 555 ft climb and a 3,700 ft descent. Hiking poles will be provided.

As we journey through the Andes, we'll be immersed in high-altitude environments. The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu are nestled between 9,000-10,000 ft and Cusco sits at around 11,150 ft. To aid in acclimatization, we'll spend most of the first three days acclimating in the Sacred Valley. Most travelers opt for medication like Diamox to mitigate the risk of altitude sickness. You will be encouraged to consult with your doctor to determine if Diamox is suitable for you. More information will be provided on altitude.

All accommodations are carefully selected for comfort and charm, but room sizes and layouts can vary. We do our best to honor preferences, with priority given to those who register earlier.

There will typically be a minimum of six and a maximum of fourteen guests in our group (plus the host). If sold out, you can be placed on a waiting list.

If you’re hoping to share a room, I can’t guarantee a match, but I’m happy to introduce you (virtually) to anyone else on the trip who is also looking for a roommate.

If you’re signing up on your own, you’ll register for a single room. If you later find a roommate, I’ll adjust your registration. If a roommate doesn’t work out, you’ll remain in the single.

If you know you must share a room for this trip to be possible, please reach out before registering. I can keep your name on my list and let you know if someone else enrolls who is also hoping to share — but your spot isn’t guaranteed until you’re officially registered.

It is required that you carry your own travel insurance policy with adequate medical coverage and emergency evacuation. Recommendations are available upon request, or you may acquire your own policy independently.

Some guests ask about using trip insurance from their credit card company. Please note that these policies often do not include medical coverage or emergency evacuation. Be sure to confirm what your policy includes, and check carefully what types of trip cancellation are covered.

It is generally recommend to select a policy with substantial coverage for both medical expenses and emergency evacuation. Many plans suggest $50,000–$100,000 for medical and $250,000–$500,000 for evacuation.

Please check directly with your insurance provider to confirm the details of your policy, as coverage varies and LH Adventure Travel is not responsible for individual insurance decisions.

All payments are non-refundable, unless LH Adventure Travel must cancel the trip because the minimum number of guests was not reached.

Because of this, please wait to purchase flights until we confirm that the trip has met its minimum—typically 60–90 days before departure.

Travel insurance is required. If you need to cancel for a reason covered by your policy, we’ll provide all necessary documentation so you can submit a claim directly to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Our small-group adventures generally require a minimum number of guests to run (usually 6). If a trip is cancelled due to low enrollment, you will have options:

• Convert the trip into a private departure (with adjusted pricing), or

• Receive a full refund.

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In the unlikely event that an official government advisory or other force majeure circumstance (such as political unrest, disease outbreak, or natural disaster) prevents travel to the destination, LH Adventure Travel will work to recoup as much as possible from our local partners. Please note that local operators are not always required to provide refunds. Any funds that can be recovered will be offered as a credit valid for one year, which you may apply toward a future trip.

We recommend checking with your travel insurance provider to understand which situations are covered under your policy.

This itinerary has been thoughtfully crafted to offer a rich and meaningful experience. However, details—including activities, accommodations, and team members—may be adjusted based on group preferences and the discretion of the tour operator to ensure the best possible trip.

There are two opportunities for physicians to earn CME credits and one option for CE for other healthcare professionals, including dentists, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, physician assistants, social workers, athletic trainers, dietitians, chaplains, and other members of the healthcare team. Please click HERE for more details. LH Adventure Travel has no financial interest, personal investment, or responsibility regarding Learner+ or the credits earned through their platform.

Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority. We work closely with trusted local partners in each country who know the culture, terrain, and logistics inside and out. If there are ever concerns about security, weather, or local conditions, the itinerary may be adjusted to ensure the group’s comfort and safety.

For added security, we require each guest to upload a copy of their travel insurance policy prior to the trip.

We also recommend enrolling in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before departure. This free service allows you to receive important updates about your destination and helps the embassy contact you in case of an emergency. You can sign up here: STEP Program