Peru: Hit the Machu Picchu trail with this two-for-one offer

Peru’s legendary Machu Picchu turns up on many bucket lists -- for good reason. A visit combines touring the Incan ruins with the thrill of trekking in high-altitude countryside. Intrepid Travel offers a six-day Inca Trail Express that hits the highlights.

The trip begins with a tour of the stepping-off point of Cuzco before heading to the Sacred Valley and the trail that climbs to 13,773 feet at Warmiwanusca, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, and the steps at Intipunku, the Sun Gate. The group, limited to 16, camps out in the evenings while along the trail.

The deal: Intrepid is having a two-for-one sale good on selected itineraries, including the Inca Trail Express. You must book by March 31 and travel by Sept. 30. Even though groups are small on these trips (12 to 16 people), I found availability when I checked online for many dates before the September deadline. If hiking isn’t your thing, the same two-for-one offer applies to other tours: Classic Peru, Majestic Peru and Sacred Land of the Incas.

Dates: The trip is offered on various dates throughout the year.

Price: $1,270 for two if booked by the end of March; after that, $1,270 per person, based on double occupancy (check with the company about single supplements). It includes four nights in a hotel, three nights of camping and 12 meals. International airfare is extra.

Contact: Intrepid Travel, (800) 970-7299