Summary
If you are beginning your search for an Inca Trail tour operator, this list is a good place to start. There are more than 150 licensed Inca Trail operators in Peru, with new agencies springing up each year. This list includes some of the most well-established and reputable Peru-based companies. Moreover, the agencies featured here also offer alternative treks to Machu Picchu, as well as other excursions and tours in the Sacred Valley.
This overview considers a variety of recommendations, including Machu Picchu tour companies featured regularly in the latest Peru travel guidebooks, review sites, and travel forums, alongside personal insights.
Explorandes
Founded in 1975, Explorandes has gained recognition for its commitment to responsible tourism as a Rainforest Alliance-certified tour operator. The company also holds certification for its environmental management system.
Explorandes operates tours and treks across much of Peru, providing private departures and tailor-made itineraries. Its five-day/four-night Inca Trail trek departs on Sundays and Wednesdays. This trip pacing is designed to enhance enjoyment and lessen crowds.
Valencia Travel Cusco
Valencia Travel Cusco prioritizes quality service, personalized attention, and attractive treks tailored for both young adventurers and less mobile travelers.
The trek chefs demonstrate remarkable skills, the Quechua-speaking porters are well looked after, while the guides are dedicated and knowledgeable. Each staff member is committed to ensuring every trekker fulfills their dream of reaching Machu Picchu. Options include two-day to five-day Inca Trail treks.
Peru Treks
Peru Treks focuses on the classic four-day/three-night Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. This focus has earned it a consistent recommendation across various platforms. The company is well-known in Peru’s travel community, often highlighted by the Ministry of Tourism, and it consistently receives favorable mentions in major guides such as Lonely Planet and Moon Handbooks. Particularly, Peru Treks emphasizes porter welfare and contributes a significant portion of its profits to local community projects, enhancing education in the region.
Andina Travel
In 2001, a Cusco native with two decades of adventure tourism experience established Andina Travel in partnership with a North American entrepreneur. The company has maintained authorized status as an Inca Trail operator since 2002 while offering numerous alternative treks and tours to Machu Picchu, including expeditions through the Sacred Valley and other Peruvian destinations.
Andina Travel provides trekking options ranging from two-day, four-day, and five-day lengths along the Inca Trail. Additionally, the agency offers “soft adventure” experiences throughout Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Prices for the Inca Trail may be slightly higher than average, yet the operator prioritizes the well-being of its trekkers, guides, and porters.
United Mice
Founded in 1987, United Mice has developed a solid reputation for its offerings in trekking, horse riding, rafting, and jungle trips throughout southeastern Peru. Expect ample local expertise from porters and guides, along with straightforward trekking supported by quality food and equipment. The company also allocates one percent of its revenues to a foundation assisting street children in Cusco.
Llama Path
Llama Path, founded in 2004, has swiftly gained a positive reputation within the Cusco circuit. The agency offers both group and private treks to Machu Picchu, featuring various alternatives to the Inca Trail. Each group is limited to a maximum of 16 hikers, although average group sizes hover around eight to ten participants. Llama Path offers multiple Inca Trail tour options spanning two to five days.
Enigma Adventure
Established in Cusco in 2002, Enigma Adventure specializes in both adventure travel and luxury trekking experiences. Its classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu (four days/three nights) is priced higher than some competitors, but clients enjoy a ticket to a highly personalized journey, often with groups of up to 12 individuals (and no minimum requirement). For larger groups, Enigma provides two guides. The agency is recognized for its premium treatment of guides and porters, alongside high-quality food.
Q’ente
Q’ente has been operating in the Peruvian Andes since 1995, primarily focusing on adventure tourism and trekking. Customers can select from five different Inca Trail excursions, offering a varied experience from a short two-day/one-night option to longer options like the seven-day Salkantay Inca Trail. The agency also features alternative routes to Machu Picchu as well as comprehensive package tours spanning five to 20 days. Group sizes for Inca Trail journeys vary from two to 16 participants.
Amazonas Explorer
Amazonas Explorer is known for its premium offerings, with five-day Inca Trail departures starting at over $1,600. For those seeking a luxurious experience, the agency adopts an ethos centered on providing guests with a relaxing and enjoyable journey. The five-day format allows for a more leisurely trek, enabling participants to savor the experience while exploring Machu Picchu on the final day. This price includes a return journey from Machu Picchu to Cusco via the luxurious Vistadome train and private bus service.
SAS Travel
Despite its simple website design, SAS Travel presents a reliable choice with nearly 20 years of experience trekking and leading tours in Cusco and across Peru. The company emphasizes responsible tourism and practices a strict “leave no trace” policy while ensuring the welfare of porters.
Additionally, SAS is renowned for serving exceptionally good food on its treks. The prices for the standard four-day/three-night Inca Trail trek are competitive, and the agency guarantees reliable daily departures.
More Inca Trail Companies to Consider
As previously mentioned, a variety of Inca Trail operators exist, some more commendable than others. Here are additional companies that have cultivated a generally positive reputation:
