Adventure in Peru

 

Departures: Year-round

Places Visited: Cuzco, Sacred Valley, Inca trail & Machu Picchu

 

Highlights

Visit the heart of the former Inca empire; explore the city of Cuzco, a fascinating blend of Spanish colonial influences and magnificent reminders of the once powerful Inca tribe. Hike the Inca trail and follow the well-worn ancient paths through spectacular Andes scenery, visit remote mountain villages and tour fascinating archeological sites. The last stretch of the trail leads straight to the jewel of Inca architecture, the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

  • 3 nights of accommodation in Cuzco
  • 3 nights of accommodation on Inca Trail excursion with full board
  • 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
  • Daily breakfast and local taxes
  • 1 Half day private city tour and nearby ruins in Cuzco
  • 1 Full day rafting and horse riding trip at Sacred Valley
  • 1 Half day private guided tour in Machu Picchu
  • Bilingual guides on transfers and tours

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

  • International & Domestic Flights
  • Admission fees to the National Parks
  • Meals and drinks other than those mentioned
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional tours and experiences
  • Any items not mentioned

Day 1: CUZCO. Upon arrival, private transfer to Casa Andina Private Collection Cuzco Hotel

City Tour and nearby ruins

Today’s exclusive city tour begins with a visit to the San Cristobal Plaza for a panoramic view of the city. Then, visit the San Pedro Market to soak up the local atmosphere and learn about the regional food products. Step inside the magnificent temple of Korikancha (the Quechua name means “Gold Enclosure”).  In its glory days, this Inca temple was completely covered in gold. Next, visit the Santo Domingo Church, a lovely baroque building that contrasts sharply with the nearby Inca construction. Enjoy a pleasant stroll from San Blas, the artisans’ neighborhood, to Hatun Rumiyoc street. Along the way, stop to admire the Inca Roca Palace, now home to the Archbishop’s Palace.  The walk continues to the Main Square for a visit to the city’s Cathedral and its valuable collection of beautiful colonial masterpieces.

The next attraction is Sacsayhuaman, an impressive fortress on the outskirts of Cuzco, built by the Incas, who used nothing but enormous boulders. Also visit the Inca Shrine Qenqo and observe the sacrificial altar embedded in a rock cave. The last destination on this tour is the Puca Pucara viewpoint, a former Inca military fortress, and Tambomachay, an important archeological site. Return to the hotel.  

Day 2: CUZCO / VALLE SAGRADO.   

Rafting and horseback riding in Urubamba Valley

Depart to Pachar, the starting point for the river rafting experience in the Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival, passengers receive their river rafting equipment and a proper safety briefing on how to handle these Class II and III rapids. After a short practice on the flat parts of the river, the journey begins on easy waters, with plenty of time to admire the spectacular views of the mountains and intricate Inca terraces. Closer to Ollantaytambo, the river features Class II and III rapids. The exciting finish is the “El Resbaladero” (the Slide), a more challenging Class III rapid that includes waves and small whirlpools. Enjoy a well-deserved break with a delicious lunch served in a traditional family-owned restaurant along the river. This is a great opportunity to enjoy Andean cuisine while supporting a local community project. After lunch, visit an archaeological site. Travel by horseback, riding through small villages, farms and Andean terraces. The final destination is Ollantaytambo, the oldest inhabited town in the American continent. Take the time to explore this small town, interact with the locals and visit the majestic temple with breathtaking views of the valley. Return to the hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay at Casa Andina Private Collection Valle Sagrado.

Day 3: SACRED VALLEY / PISCACUCHO / HUAYLLABAMBA. Full Board

Inca Trail

Let the big adventure begin! Pick-up from the hotel and transfer to Piscacucho (2,750 m/9,022 ft.) to the starting point of the Inca Trail. Set out at a slow pace to get used to the trail. Take in the beautiful views of snowcapped Veronica Mountain and look out over the archaeological site of Llaqtapata. First night’s camp will be at Huayllabamba (3,000 m /9,842 ft.)

Day 4: HUAYLLABAMBA / LLULLUCHAPAMPA / WARMIWAÑUSCA / PACAYMAYO

Full Board

This is the most demanding day of the Inca Trail, so make sure to bring some extra sweets or snacks for energy. Walk through the Valley of Huayllabamba and observe the ecological changes as the landscape transitions from highland to the plateau. In Yunca Chimpa, begin the ascent to Llulluchapampa (3,750 m/12,303 ft.). Pause for a refreshing snack and sweeping views of the Huayanay Valley and contemplate today’s big challenge: the mighty Warmiwañusca mountain pass (4,200 m/13,799 ft.), also known as “Dead Woman” mountain pass. Keep an eye out for beautiful hummingbirds and sparrows. Finally it is time to descend to the campsite in Pacaymayo (3,600 m/11,811 ft.) for lunch and a rest after this challenging day.

Day 5: RUNCURACAY / SAYACMARCA / PHUYUPATAMARCA / WIÑAYWAYNA

Full Board

Today is the longest but also least challenging hiking day, but walkers are rewarded with archaeological sites and impressive views. Climb the Runcuracay Mountain pass (3,860 m/12,664 ft.) to visit the Runcuracay archaeological complex. Then continue to the Sayacmarca Inca fortress (3,580 m/11,745 ft.). After lunch, the trail crosses the Phuyupatamarca Mountain pass (3,700 m/12,139 ft.). This area boasts the best preserved Inca complex along the Inca Trail. Its Inca name translates into “above the clouds”. After a well-deserved rest, continue to Wiñaywayna (2,650 m/8,694 ft.), an impressive Inca complex with numerous agricultural terraces, religious and urban areas. This will be end of today’s hike; set up camp and enjoy a farewell dinner. There are public restrooms and hot showers and those who still have some energy left can enjoy a drink at the nearby hostel.

Day 6: WIÑAYWAYNA / INTIPUNKU / MACHU PICCHU.

Get up at dawn to ascend through a narrow path of steps to Intipunku or the Door of the Sun (2,720 m/8,923 ft.) for a first peek at Machu Picchu (2,450 m/8,038 ft.). The sunrise views are a truly spectacular and memorable sight. Descend to the fortress of Machu Picchu for a guided tour and the opportunity to explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Accommodation at El Mapi Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 7: MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO.

Today there are no scheduled tours; take time to experience more of the unique energy and mystique of Machu Picchu, hike up to Intipunku, climb the Huayna Picchu, a mountain with great views of Machu Picchu and home to the temple of the Moon, or enjoy a short hike to the Mandor cascades.

At the arranged time, return to Cusco by train.

Reception at Poroy train station and transfer to Casa Andina Private Collection Cuzco Hotel.

Day 8: CUSCO/LIMA.

At the appropriate time, private transfer to the airport for flight to Lima


Tour descriptions and approximate times are for informational purposes only.

Some places described may be substituted and/or approximate times may be subject to change, due to unexpected circumstances or weather conditions.