Cusco (3,400 m) - Your local Follow Alice leader meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel in the historic city centre. Cusco is the oldest city in Peru and one of its highest, sitting at roughly 3,400 m above sea level. If you arrive early enough, explore the fascinating streets. Your trek group has dinner together, where your local leader briefs you on all that is to come.

Cusco (3,400 m) - This morning you may feel the effects of the high altitude, so today can be a rest day if your body needs it. For those feeling well, a city tour is on the cards. Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire before the Spanish conquest, so it boasts a fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish heritage. The tour starts in the morning, includes lunch, and usually ends mid-afternoon.

Approx. 2,800 m - You are driven to the Sacred Valley, the bread basket of the Inca Empire. Visit a weaving co-op, then see the concentric Inca terraces of Moray. Enjoy a home-cooked traditional lunch at a local family home. Then visit the postcard-perfect Maras Salt Flats before heading to your hotel in the valley.

2,650 m to 2,950 m - Today you embark on the Classic Inca Trail. Straight away you encounter impressive Inca ruins, and your knowledgeable guide ensures you appreciate all you are seeing. Today follows the historic Inca Highway, which played a vital role in the Inca Empire. You sleep in tents and your mountain crew prepare hot meals throughout.

2,950 m to 4,215 m to 3,550 m - A challenging day as you climb into alpine grassland and cross Dead Woman's Pass (Warmiwanusqa) at 4,215 m, nearly two kilometres higher than Machu Picchu. You see more fantastic ruins, made even more incredible in such a high and treacherous environment. After the pass, a long steep descent leads to Pacaymayo campsite.

3,550 m to 3,750 m to 2,670 m - Possibly the toughest day on the trail, but for many it becomes their favourite. Hike through a beautiful tangled cloud forest. Keep your eyes peeled for Andean deer, llamas, alpacas, condors and hummingbirds. Cross Third Pass at 3,750 m before a long steep descent to Winaywayna campsite at 2,670 m.

2,670 m to 2,730 m (Sun Gate) to 2,430 m (Machu Picchu) - An early start to reach the Sun Gate by sunrise for your first glorious glimpse of Machu Picchu below. Complete the final 5.5 km hike to enter the ancient citadel and wander through its incredible stonework terraces and buildings. Afterwards, drive down to Machu Picchu Town and catch a scenic train back to Cusco.

Cusco (3,400 m) - Depending on your flight time, this morning is your chance to do anything in Cusco you did not fit in before the trek. Perhaps learn a traditional craft or visit a local market. Later, your Follow Alice leader takes you to the airport. We hope to host you again soon on another adventure!