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Top 10 Best Inca Trail Tour Companies & Operators 2023 & 2024

Publicado el: 16 de November de 2023 - Por: Hello Peru Travel

It’s awesome that you are planning an unforgettable Inca trail tour. The 26-miles trek through the Andes mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you don’t want to miss in Peru. However, planning such an adventure can be overwhelming!

You might not be familiar with the routes and everything. So, choosing one of the best Inca trail tour companies and operators is a smart choice for a hassle-free trek.

10 Best Inca Trail Tour Companies and Operators

If you don’t want to read the entire post, you would love to book your Inca trail tour with us at Hello Peru Tours. We are a local tour company in Peru, offering you top-quality and personalized trekking experiences. Contact us right now to start your journey to the ancient city of Machu Picchu!

But keep reading to check out other options.

1: Hello Peru Tours

Hello Peru Tours, also known as Hello Peru Travel, is highly recommended as TripAdvisor’s top Inca Trail tour operator. With 15+ years of experience in Peru tourism, we deeply understand the region.
Our passion for delivering exceptional experiences sets us apart.

We are also a proudly Peruvian company with capital and ownership from Cusco. Our diverse team of professionals includes experts in tourism, communication, journalism, gastronomy, and law.

And we share a common passion for people, discovery, and travel.

Hello Peru Tours is not just an ordinary Peruvian tour company; we focus on providing authentic experiences to travelers. We are committed to promoting responsible tourism, and we support local communities through our programs.

Most importantly, we do not consider our clients as mere customers but as our fellow travelers. We ensure you have the best time exploring Peru with us. We are also one of the best Machu Picchu tour operators in Peru.

Our Inca Trail tour packages include various options based on your preferences and budget. You can choose from 2-day- to 10-day trekking tours, which cover Machu Picchu and other hidden gems in the Sacred Valley.

One of our standout offers is a 7-day adventure that covers the highlights of Cusco, Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.

But we also customize tours according to your needs and interests. We believe in creating unique experiences so you can have the best memories of your trip. Contact us at info@helloperutours.com or Whatsapp at +51 950 798 064 to get more information.

And for your information, Hello Peru Tours is a registered travel agency in Peru with official recognition from the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism.
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TripAdvisor

2: Llama Path

Llama Path is another reputable Inca Trail tour operator in Cusco, Peru. They have been in the business for over 12 years and are well-known for their excellent service. They also offer off-the-beaten-path treks for adventurous travelers.

Llama Path has received multiple awards and certifications for its sustainable tourism practices and commitment to the local communities. They also use eco-friendly practices on their tours, such as reusable bottles and biodegradable products.

The Llama Path Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek that takes you through the most iconic scenery on the Inca Trail, including the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. The trek is challenging, but it is also an incredibly rewarding experience.

Llama Path offers a variety of Classic Inca Trail treks, ranging from 4 to 7 days. Their treks include experienced guides, porters, and all the necessary equipment. It offers various Inca Trail group tour services for both these tours.
TripAdvisor

3: Evolution Trek Peru

Evolution Trek Peru offers small group tours with a maximum of 8 people per group. They also have private tours available for those who want to have a more intimate experience. This approach fosters stronger cultural immersion and connections between travelers and their environment.

Their Inca Trail trek packages vary from 2 to 7 days and include all the necessary equipment, experienced guides, and porters. The Evolution Trek team focuses on creating unique client experiences by combining cultural immersion, adventure activities, and more.

While Evolution Treks Peru may have a slightly higher cost than other operators, your investment supports ethical tourism initiatives and positive change within the surrounding communities.
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4: Flashpacker Connect

Flashpacker Connect offers a unique perspective on Inca Trail adventures. The founders, LeAnn and Brandon Morris left their conventional jobs to explore the world and change the travel industry. Their deep passion for the outdoors and diverse cultures drives the company’s mission.

This tour company embraces flashpacking: an authentic travel experience without sacrificing comfort and convenience. It’s all about savoring every moment of your journey.

Flashpacker Connect is your gateway to extraordinary experiences if you’re the traveler seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. That is why we have listed it here among Peru’s best Inca trail tour companies.

Another reason to book a tour with Flashpacker Connect is that they are a community. They create unforgettable memories and redefine adventure travel for like-minded individuals.
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5: Sam Travel Peru

Sam Travel Peru Expeditions is a reputable tour operator specializing in short Inca Trail tours to Machu Picchu. This operator is renowned for its reliability and is an excellent choice for travelers seeking to explore this iconic destination in a limited timeframe.

Sam Travel Peru is dedicated to delivering its clients an authentic and professional experience. They take pride in offering travelers a glimpse into the culture and history of the indigenous communities in the region.

One of the standout features of this operator is their use of locals from indigenous communities who are deeply passionate about their culture and history. This ensures that your journey is not only informative but also enriching.

Sam Travel Peru offers diverse trekking options to explore Peru’s natural beauty and mysterious archaeological sites. The owner, Saul Alvarez, is an experienced local guide who understands the desires of travelers when it comes to treks and tours.
TripAdvisor

6: TreXperience

TreXperience is a 100% local Peruvian tour operator based in the charming city of Cusco. Their mission is not just about providing great tours; it’s about maximizing the positive impact of tourism on local communities and the environment.

TreXperience organizes unique tours to Machu Picchu. These tours are not just your excursions; they’re carefully crafted experiences that provide a deep dive into the culture and history of this remarkable region.

Their private tours offer you flexibility and the confidence to book your adventure. TreXperience is dedicated to supporting social projects in the local community.

In summary, TreXperience is about providing unique, culturally rich, and responsible travel experiences in the heart of Peru. Your journey with them will be memorable and contribute to the betterment of the local community and the environment.
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7: AB Expedition

AB Expedition is a locally owned tour operator based in Cusco. It offers customized travel packages to explore Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Cusco sightseeing tours, and more.

This Inca trail tour company can customize any trek or tour to suit your travel preferences, fitness level, budget, and time constraints. This level of personalization ensures that your experience is tailored to your needs.

Safety and comfort are paramount when trekking through rugged mountain terrain with unpredictable weather. AB Expedition provides 4-season tents, mattress pads, and dry bags to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.

The team at AB Expedition is passionate about what they do. They take pride in providing 5-star service before, during, and after your trip. Their groups are typically small, averaging around 8 guests per departure.
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8: Wayki Trek

Wayki Trek is also one of the best Inca trail tour companies with a unique focus on small group sizes and personalized experiences. They offer local knowledge and expertise to offer an exceptional journey along the Inca Trail.

Unlike many other operators that reach the maximum group limit, Wayki Trek limits their groups to a maximum of eight trekkers. This intentional decision guarantees a more personal and engaging experience for every participant.

Wayki Trek offers a variety of Inca Trail treks of different durations, catering to travelers’ preferences and fitness levels. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a novice, Wayki Trek has a journey that suits you.

In summary, Wayki Trek is dedicated to providing travelers with small group, personalized, and unforgettable Inca Trail experiences.
TripAdvisor

9: Enigma Adventure

Unlike other agents, Enigma exclusively operates their treks with their staff. This commitment to quality and consistency sets them apart.

Enigma Adventure carefully selects and trains the best guides for each group to the Inca trail. It also invests in some of the best equipment in the field, renewed every year. This includes top-quality tents, surgical steel cookware, water filters, and sleeping systems.

They are committed to providing you with a safe and comfortable journey.

Also, Enigma Adventure is dedicated to minimizing its impact on the environment in the naturally protected areas in which it operates. They train all their staff in environmental policy and actively participate in initiatives to preserve the environment.
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10: Alpaca Expeditions

Alpaca Expeditions goes the extra mile to tailor each package and tour to fit your specific needs. Whether you’re a family with young children or a group of friends seeking adventure, they can create a journey that suits you perfectly.

Alpaca Expeditions welcomes all to visit Peru and eagerly introduces you to the rich traditions of the Inca culture. Your journey with them is not just about exploration; it’s a cultural experience that deepens your understanding of this fascinating region.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a new cooking class in all their camping treks. Imagine learning to cook under the stars and next to the majestic mountains. It adds a delightful culinary experience to your adventure.
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FAQs for the Best Inca Trail Tour Operators

Now that you know the top tour companies for the Inca trail, let’s answer some FAQs to help with your decision.

How to Know if a Travel Company is Good

Choosing the right tour company, just like choosing a travel destination, is important, as it can make or break your vacation experience. This is particularly the case when you want to hike the Inca trail.

Consider these factors when evaluating a travel company:

Reputation and experience: Check online reviews and testimonials from past clients to understand the company’s reputation.

Specialization: Choose a company that specializes in your planned trip. For example, Inca trail treks require different skills and expertise than city tours.
Local guides and staff: Opt for a company that employs local guides and staff. They have a deeper understanding of the authentic culture.

Pricing: Compare prices from different companies to ensure you get the best deal. However, don’t just go for the cheapest option. Sometimes, it’s worth paying a little more for a better experience.

How Much Does the Inca Trail Tour Cost?

The cost of an Inca Trail tour can vary depending on the company you choose, the tour length, and the time of year. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per person for a standard 4-day/3-night Inca Trail tour.

Do You Need a Tour Guide for the Inca Trail?

Yes, you do need a tour guide to hike the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a challenging hike, and it’s important to have an experienced guide who can help you navigate the trail and keep you safe. Tour guides also provide you with valuable information about the history and culture of the Inca people.

What Travel Operator Do You Recommend for Inca Trail?

We recommend Hello Peru Tours for several reasons.

  • They have a long history of providing excellent service to Inca Trail hikers.
  • They are a responsible tourism company committed to protecting the Inca Trail.
  • They offer a variety of Inca Trail tours to fit different budgets and needs.

What carriers were on the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail carriers are local porters responsible for carrying all of the supplies for the hikers, including tents, food, and cooking equipment. They are typically from the surrounding villages and deeply understand the trail and the local area.

In the past, there were concerns about the working conditions of Inca Trail porters. However, in recent years, there have been significant improvements in their working conditions, including:

  • A minimum wage
  • Paid rest days
  • Access to medical care

Improved housing and sanitation facilities

Is the Inca Trail worth the money?

The cost of the Inca Trail can be a bit expensive, but it is worth the money for the experience. The cost includes all of your food, accommodation, and porters. It also includes a tour guide who will provide you with information about the history and culture of the Inca people.

Why is the Inca Trail so expensive?

There are a few reasons why the Inca Trail is so expensive:

  • The cost of permits: The Peruvian government only allows a limited number of people to hike the Inca Trail daily. The demand for permits is high, and the price is accordingly high.
  • The cost of porters: The porters who carry the supplies for the hikers are paid a fair wage. This is reflected in the cost of the tour.
  • The cost of maintaining the trail: The Inca Trail is well-maintained. This requires a lot of work and resources, which is also reflected in the cost of the tour.

Hiking the Inca trail is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

How hard is the 1-day Inca Trail hike?

The 1-day Inca Trail hike is challenging but doable. The trail is approximately 7.5 miles long and gains about 2700 mt of elevation. The hike is also at a high altitude, so being in good physical condition is important.

If you are not in good physical condition, consider doing a shorter or multi-day hike with more rest days. Luckily, we at Hello Peru Tours offer a 1-day Inca Trail hike and the classic Inca trail.

Can a beginner hike the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is a challenging hike requiring a moderate fitness level. However, beginners can hike the trail with proper preparation and training.

If you still want to do it as a beginner, follow these tips.

  • Start training at least 3 months in advance.
  • Make sure you are in good physical condition.
  • Be prepared to deal with altitude sickness.
  • Hire a reputable tour company

(Contact us right now).

Can I wear shorts on the Inca Trail?

You can wear shorts on the Inca Trail, but it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Pack layers, including a raincoat and warm jacket, and wear sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support.

How much do you tip an Inca Trail guide?

Tipping is not required on the Inca Trail, but it is customary to tip guides, porters, and cooks for their hard work. A general guideline is to tip $10-$20 per person per day for guides and porters and $5-$10 per person per day for cooks. You can tip porters individually or give a communal tip to the head guide for distribution.

Contact us at info@helloperutours.com or Whatsapp at +51 950 798 064 to get more information.