Join this active cultural exploration of the Urubamba Valley, the celebrated “Sacred Valley of the Incas,” and the spectacular archaeological site of Machu Picchu. Trek in the less-visited and uncrowded Lares region north of Cusco, noted for its rural atmosphere, traditional weavers in colorful dress, and roving herds of alpacas and llamas. All of this in the context of high, snow-capped Andean Peaks and richly forested valleys alive with birds and other wildlife.
This is a lodge-based hiking trip with vehicle transportation to and from hikes. Overnight in three of the famous Mountain Lodges of Peru and spend a comfortable night in Aguas Caliente at the base of Machu Picchu.
Hike to archaeological sights, visit rural communities, and cross several mountain valleys and passes. Optional easy hikes each day or transfer by vehicle is available to those not up for the more difficult hiking. The trekking can range from moderate to strenuous or even easy depending on the hiking you choose for that day. This trip can accommodate participants with differing hiking abilities and ambitions.
On arrival in Lima and after clearing customs, you’ll just walk across the road to the airport hotel for a transit night before continuing on to Cusco in the morning. If you want time to explore Lima, it is possible to add additional time before or after the trip.
Meals
None
Lodging
Wyndham Costa del Sol or similar
BDay 2Flight to Cusco
Your day begins with an early morning flight to Cusco, high in the Andes (11,200’/3,400m), where you will be met and transferred to your local hotel. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure walking around the ancient city. From the Plaza de Armas, visit many of the city’s historical sites, see Incan stone walls serving as the foundations of Spanish architecture, and view the cathedral built atop the ruins of an Incan temple. For lunch and dinner, enjoy the variety of great places to eat in the city. We recommend for acclimatization purposes that you don’t push yourself on your first day at this altitude. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water!
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
XO Art House or similar
CDay 3Cusco Ruins
This morning you will have a guided tour of the four extraordinary nearby ruins: Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Cusco was the center of the Incan Empire and was built in the shape of a puma. The city itself is the puma’s body, and the enormous Sacsayhuaman ruins represent the head and teeth. The largest and most impressive of Sacsayhuaman’s original rocks are still in place, though only about 20% of the entire site remains today. Qenko, meaning zig-zag, consists of a large limestone rock covered with carvings with mysterious caves and alters below, and its zig-zag walls and channels are thought to have been used for ritual sacrifices. Puca Pucara, or red fort, is so named because it appears red when viewed in the right light. Tambo Machay, known locally as “El Bano del Inca” or the Incan bath, is a small site with beautiful ceremonial stone fountains and bathing pools. The afternoon will be free for continued relaxed acclimatization or independent exploration.
Meet your trekking guide and fellow travelers for a general trip briefing and Q&A tonight.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
XO Art House or similar
DDay 4Treasures of the Sacred Valley
The next few days offer travelers a wide range of alternate activities, with same day decision flexibility! Can it get any better?
After an early breakfast, you’ll depart Cusco for the village of Chinchero, where you’ll stop for a guided visit of the Inca archeological site and the 16th-century colonial church. From here, choose an inspiring downhill hike from Chinchero to the town of Urquillos along historic Inca trails, or an afternoon exploring the circular agricultural terraces in Moray and natural salt mines in Maras.
Alternate Activity A (Cultural): Extend your afternoon visit to Chinchero before departing for a guided tour of the Moray Inca terraced agricultural site (11,464’/3,550 m). Lunch will be taken before visiting the Maras salt mines.
Alternative Activity B (Active): Hike from Chinchero to Urquillos.
Approximately 3 hours
Easy to Moderate (mostly downhill)
The group reconvenes at the Lamay Lodge for a guide briefing before dinner and comfortable overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Lamay Lodge
EDay 5Explore the Pisac Valley and Ruins
Start your day with either an invigorating hike from the village of Amaru to the community of Viacha, or a visit to the lively town and colorful artisan marketplace of Pisaq. Midday, both cultural explorers and hikers will reunite in the village of Viacha to learn about traditional Andean farming before a hike or drive to the Pisaq archaeological site for a guided tour, followed by a traditional Pachamanca dinner back at Lamay Lodge.
Morning Alternative Activity A (Cultural): Depart the lodge for a visit to the picturesque village of Pisac, well known for its colorful handicraft market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Afterwards, it is just a short drive to Viacha.
Morning Alternative Activity B (Active): For those who wish to hike, a short drive to the community of Amaru (10,550’/ 3216 m) brings you to the trailhead for the morning’s moderate hike to the rendezvous point in Viacha. The trail winds uphill for two hours to Challwaccasa Pass (13,943’/4,250m), which allows great views of the peaks of the Vilcanota and Vilcabamba mountain ranges and the more distant and giant snow-capped peaks of Ausangate and Salcantay. You’ll then head downhill to the community of Viacha.
Approximately 3 hours
Moderate
Max. elevation: 14,200’ / 4,328 m
The vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Lamay for dinner and overnight at the Lamay Lodge.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Lamay Lodge
FDay 6Lares: Trek from Cuncani to Huacawasi
This morning the group will depart the lodge and walk around the small town of Lamay followed by a scenic drive into the heart of the Lares Valley. Your first stop will be Ancasmarca for a guided tour of this seldom-visited archeological site. Afterwards, choose a visit with the expert textile weavers in a remote village or a hike amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi, where both groups meet again to spend the night.
Afternoon Alternative Activity A (Cultural): Drive to the small town of Choquecancha for a guided tour of the imposing Inca ruins and the colonial church. Arrive at the Huacahuasi Lodge, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Afternoon Alternative Activity B (Easy to Moderate hike): Drive to the small village of Quelqena and then start a beautiful and easy 3-hour hike to the Huacahuasi Lodge.
Approximately 2.5 hours
Easy to Moderate
Max. elevation: 14,200’ / 4,328 m
Afternoon Alternative Activity C (Moderate hike): Heading over the Lares Pass (14,501’/4,420 m), you’ll arrive at Cuncani, the starting point of your hike. Walking uphill for about two hours, you’ll pass farmhouses and fields. The local inhabitants, descendants of the Incas, have maintained their traditional way of life, growing an amazing variety of potatoes nearly year-round and using their llamas as transportation and alpacas as food and clothing. Reaching Cruzccasa Pass (13,740’/4,188 m), you’ll enjoy an impressive view of Veronica peak before the two-hour descent to Huacawasi Lodge (12,579’/3,835 m).
Approximately 4 hours
Moderate
Max. elevation: 13,838’ / 4,219 m
The group then reconvenes for the guide briefing and dinner. Overnight at Huacahuasi Lodge.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Huacahuasi Lodge
GDay 7Huacahuasi & High Mountain Lakes
For a cultural morning experience today, you will visit the village of Huacahuasi and learn more about its heritage and a villager’s typical daily activities. The expert weavers and farmers will share their stories, each depicted in artful textiles full of traditional Inca symbols and imagery. Afterwards, return to the lodge for a Peruvian cooking class with the lodge staff.
Alternatively, you can take a short hike to the waterfalls near Huacahuasi or challenge yourself with an all-day hike from the community of Quiswarani to Quelquena along the ‘Trail of 1,000 Lakes.’ Although a strenuous hike over high-mountain passes, you will be rewarded with majestic views of the lakes, valleys, and mountains, as well as the multiple herds of alpacas and llamas grazing along the route.
Alternative Activity A (Cultural): Depart from the lodge for a visit to the community of Huacahuasi and to meet the local people in their homes. Return to the lodge for a cooking class, lunch, and an afternoon of leisure.
Afternoon Alternative Activity B (Easy hike): Depart from the lodge for a visit to the community of Huacahuasi and an easy walk to a nearby waterfall and refreshing snack. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of leisure.
Approximately 1.5 hours
Easy
Afternoon Alternative Activity C (Challenging hike): A great day awaits you as you hike one of the most beautiful trails in the Cusco region! From the lodge, you’ll drive to the quaint village of Quiswarani, where you’ll begin hiking westward up a small valley dotted with lakes and herds of grazing alpacas. The trail then narrows into a series of switchbacks to Abra Huchuyccasa Pass, which you’ll reach after three hours. From the pass, you’ll have the most amazing views of distant mountain ranges and stunning turquoise lakes, whose brilliant hues are the result of bronze metal elements in their icy waters. Descending slightly, you’ll continue hiking another hour toward the second pass of the day at Phoñoccasa. From here you’ll descend to Qeywaqocha Lake for a leisurely lunch, then end your hike at the village of Qelqena. Along the way, enjoy spotting native bird species, including Andean geese, ducks, and plovers. The vehicle will meet you at the trailhead for the drive back to Huacahuasi.
Approximately 6.5 hours
Challenging
Max. elevation: 14,505’ / 4,421 m
The group reconvenes for the guide briefing, dinner, and overnight
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Huacahuasi Lodge
HDay 8Huacahuasi to Patacaancha and Ollantaytambo
Begin the day with a scenic drive from Huacahuasi to the remote village of Huilloc. From there, choose a morning hike from Huilloc to Pumamarka, or explore the village of Huilloc and nearby sheepherding community before regrouping for lunch and a midday exploration of the Pumamarka archaeological site. After lunch, choose to hike from Pumamarka to Ollantaytambo or drive and spend the afternoon exploring Ollantaytambo’s maze-like alleys and passageways.
Note: Afternoon hikers will meet the rest of the group at the hotel upon arrival in the Sacred Valley.
Activity A (Cultural morning): Depart by vehicle for the Sacred Valley where you’ll visit the market town of Huilloc and nearby sheepherding community to participate in a traditional Andean ceremony to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth) and her blessings for the health of the community livestock. Drive from Marcacocha to Pumamarka for an all-group tour of the archaeological site and lunch.
Activity B (Cultural afternoon): After lunch, take a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo and spend the afternoon exploring this charming Sacred Valley town.
Activity C (Moderate hike morning): Hike from Huilloc to Pumamarka.
Approximately 3 hours
Moderate
Activity D (Moderate hike afternoon): Hike from Pumamarka to Ollantaytambo
Approximately 3 hours
Moderate
The group reconvenes for the guide briefing and dinner. Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Begin your day with an optional early morning hike to the Inca storage houses high above the town for an impressive view of the Ollantaytambo fortress and ceremonial site. Afterwards, the entire group will meet at the entrance of the site for a guided tour. Midday, you will embark on a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to the charming town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu and enjoy a free afternoon. Alternatively, opt for an all-day hike from train marker KM 104 to the Machu Picchu Sun Gate on the classic Inca Trail (subject to additional cost).
After your five-day hike, you can enjoy a more relaxing day by skipping the morning hike and have a leisurely breakfast before visiting Ollantaytambo, which boasts an impressive archaeological site and a well-preserved Inca town structure. This was the estate of Emperor Pachacutec who conquered the region, building the town and the ceremonial center. Ollantaytambo dates back to the late 15th century and has some of the oldest continuously occupied dwellings in South America.
Next take the train to Machu Picchu: Train Services: PeruRail Expedition (Explorer Service), PeruRail Vistadome (Pioneer Service)
Optional A: Afternoon visit to the Machu Picchu citadel. (subject to additional cost)
Optional B: Hike on the classic Inca Trail, from KM 104 to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu. Duration: Approximately 6
hours | Hiking Level: Moderate to challenging. (subject to availability and additional cost)
Notes: Replaces the standard program day itinerary; this activity must be booked upon confirmation of your Sacred
Valley and Lares Adventure departure date in order to secure the necessary permits. It’s necessary to ensure you have
insurance in place before embarking on this activity.
Have a guide briefing, dinner, and overnight at the Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Aguas Calientes hotel
JDay 10Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary
Your journey to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning rollicking uphill bus ride. As you enter the ‘sanctuary’ (as locals refer to it), prepare to be awed by the imposing, skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among others. After a two-hour guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own, including a hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain* for dramatic views that stretch from the Urubamba River Valley to the edge of the Amazon Jungle.
At some point, be sure to take a moment and sit quietly–listen to the wind, meditate, and absorb the mystical energy that envelops you. After the visit you will have lunch in Aguas Calientes before a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1.5 hours) and vehicle transfer to your hotel in Cusco (approximately 1.5 hours). As night falls and you arrive amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, you will be touched by a feeling of peace and rejuvenation that will linger long after your journey home
*Note: Tickets for Huayna Picchu Mountain (8,924’ / 2,720m) may be available subject to additional cost. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, you may opt for a hike up Machu Picchu Mountain (10,112 / 3,082m), located next to the Machu Picchu Citadel on the southern side.
Alternate Activity A (Cultural late morning): Free time for further exploration.
Alternate Activity B (Active late morning): Hike up Huayna Picchu (subject to availability and additional cost).
Approximately 2.5 hours
Moderate to Challenging
Max. elevation: 8,924’ / 2,700 m
Take the train back to Cusco and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
XO Art House or similar
KDay 11Flight to Lima & Depart
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a roughly five-hour Lima city tour before catching your flight home. Explore the dazzling Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas) in the historic city center, built in the early 16th century. It is surrounded by beautiful architectural buildings including the Government Palace, the 17th-century Cathedral of Lima, and Archbishop’s Palace.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Dates & Price
Dates
Customized for you on your dates, or join a group on the following dates:
Best Time of Year to Visit
j
f
m
a
m
j
j
a
s
o
n
d
Ideal
Unpredictable
Not Recommended
Not Offered
Join this active cultural exploration of the Urubamba Valley, the celebrated “Sacred Valley of the Incas,” and the spectacular archaeological site of Machu Picchu. Trek in the less-visited and uncrowded Lares region north of Cusco, noted for its rural atmosphere, traditional weavers in colorful dress, and roving herds of alpacas and llamas. All of this in the context of high, snow-capped Andean Peaks and richly forested valleys alive with birds and other wildlife.
This is a lodge-based hiking trip with vehicle transportation to and from hikes. Overnight in three of the famous Mountain Lodges of Peru and spend a comfortable night in Aguas Caliente at the base of Machu Picchu.
Hike to archaeological sights, visit rural communities, and cross several mountain valleys and passes. Optional easy hikes each day or transfer by vehicle is available to those not up for the more difficult hiking. The trekking can range from moderate to strenuous or even easy depending on the hiking you choose for that day. This trip can accommodate participants with differing hiking abilities and ambitions.
On arrival in Lima and after clearing customs, you’ll just walk across the road to the airport hotel for a transit night before continuing on to Cusco in the morning. If you want time to explore Lima, it is possible to add additional time before or after the trip.
Meals
None
Lodging
Wyndham Costa del Sol or similar
BDay 2Flight to Cusco
Your day begins with an early morning flight to Cusco, high in the Andes (11,200’/3,400m), where you will be met and transferred to your local hotel. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure walking around the ancient city. From the Plaza de Armas, visit many of the city’s historical sites, see Incan stone walls serving as the foundations of Spanish architecture, and view the cathedral built atop the ruins of an Incan temple. For lunch and dinner, enjoy the variety of great places to eat in the city. We recommend for acclimatization purposes that you don’t push yourself on your first day at this altitude. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water!
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
XO Art House or similar
CDay 3Cusco Ruins
This morning you will have a guided tour of the four extraordinary nearby ruins: Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Cusco was the center of the Incan Empire and was built in the shape of a puma. The city itself is the puma’s body, and the enormous Sacsayhuaman ruins represent the head and teeth. The largest and most impressive of Sacsayhuaman’s original rocks are still in place, though only about 20% of the entire site remains today. Qenko, meaning zig-zag, consists of a large limestone rock covered with carvings with mysterious caves and alters below, and its zig-zag walls and channels are thought to have been used for ritual sacrifices. Puca Pucara, or red fort, is so named because it appears red when viewed in the right light. Tambo Machay, known locally as “El Bano del Inca” or the Incan bath, is a small site with beautiful ceremonial stone fountains and bathing pools. The afternoon will be free for continued relaxed acclimatization or independent exploration.
Meet your trekking guide and fellow travelers for a general trip briefing and Q&A tonight.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
XO Art House or similar
DDay 4Treasures of the Sacred Valley
The next few days offer travelers a wide range of alternate activities, with same day decision flexibility! Can it get any better?
After an early breakfast, you’ll depart Cusco for the village of Chinchero, where you’ll stop for a guided visit of the Inca archeological site and the 16th-century colonial church. From here, choose an inspiring downhill hike from Chinchero to the town of Urquillos along historic Inca trails, or an afternoon exploring the circular agricultural terraces in Moray and natural salt mines in Maras.
Alternate Activity A (Cultural): Extend your afternoon visit to Chinchero before departing for a guided tour of the Moray Inca terraced agricultural site (11,464’/3,550 m). Lunch will be taken before visiting the Maras salt mines.
Alternative Activity B (Active): Hike from Chinchero to Urquillos.
Approximately 3 hours
Easy to Moderate (mostly downhill)
The group reconvenes at the Lamay Lodge for a guide briefing before dinner and comfortable overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Lamay Lodge
EDay 5Explore the Pisac Valley and Ruins
Start your day with either an invigorating hike from the village of Amaru to the community of Viacha, or a visit to the lively town and colorful artisan marketplace of Pisaq. Midday, both cultural explorers and hikers will reunite in the village of Viacha to learn about traditional Andean farming before a hike or drive to the Pisaq archaeological site for a guided tour, followed by a traditional Pachamanca dinner back at Lamay Lodge.
Morning Alternative Activity A (Cultural): Depart the lodge for a visit to the picturesque village of Pisac, well known for its colorful handicraft market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Afterwards, it is just a short drive to Viacha.
Morning Alternative Activity B (Active): For those who wish to hike, a short drive to the community of Amaru (10,550’/ 3216 m) brings you to the trailhead for the morning’s moderate hike to the rendezvous point in Viacha. The trail winds uphill for two hours to Challwaccasa Pass (13,943’/4,250m), which allows great views of the peaks of the Vilcanota and Vilcabamba mountain ranges and the more distant and giant snow-capped peaks of Ausangate and Salcantay. You’ll then head downhill to the community of Viacha.
Approximately 3 hours
Moderate
Max. elevation: 14,200’ / 4,328 m
The vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Lamay for dinner and overnight at the Lamay Lodge.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Lamay Lodge
FDay 6Lares: Trek from Cuncani to Huacawasi
This morning the group will depart the lodge and walk around the small town of Lamay followed by a scenic drive into the heart of the Lares Valley. Your first stop will be Ancasmarca for a guided tour of this seldom-visited archeological site. Afterwards, choose a visit with the expert textile weavers in a remote village or a hike amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi, where both groups meet again to spend the night.
Afternoon Alternative Activity A (Cultural): Drive to the small town of Choquecancha for a guided tour of the imposing Inca ruins and the colonial church. Arrive at the Huacahuasi Lodge, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Afternoon Alternative Activity B (Easy to Moderate hike): Drive to the small village of Quelqena and then start a beautiful and easy 3-hour hike to the Huacahuasi Lodge.
Approximately 2.5 hours
Easy to Moderate
Max. elevation: 14,200’ / 4,328 m
Afternoon Alternative Activity C (Moderate hike): Heading over the Lares Pass (14,501’/4,420 m), you’ll arrive at Cuncani, the starting point of your hike. Walking uphill for about two hours, you’ll pass farmhouses and fields. The local inhabitants, descendants of the Incas, have maintained their traditional way of life, growing an amazing variety of potatoes nearly year-round and using their llamas as transportation and alpacas as food and clothing. Reaching Cruzccasa Pass (13,740’/4,188 m), you’ll enjoy an impressive view of Veronica peak before the two-hour descent to Huacawasi Lodge (12,579’/3,835 m).
Approximately 4 hours
Moderate
Max. elevation: 13,838’ / 4,219 m
The group then reconvenes for the guide briefing and dinner. Overnight at Huacahuasi Lodge.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Huacahuasi Lodge
GDay 7Huacahuasi & High Mountain Lakes
For a cultural morning experience today, you will visit the village of Huacahuasi and learn more about its heritage and a villager’s typical daily activities. The expert weavers and farmers will share their stories, each depicted in artful textiles full of traditional Inca symbols and imagery. Afterwards, return to the lodge for a Peruvian cooking class with the lodge staff.
Alternatively, you can take a short hike to the waterfalls near Huacahuasi or challenge yourself with an all-day hike from the community of Quiswarani to Quelquena along the ‘Trail of 1,000 Lakes.’ Although a strenuous hike over high-mountain passes, you will be rewarded with majestic views of the lakes, valleys, and mountains, as well as the multiple herds of alpacas and llamas grazing along the route.
Alternative Activity A (Cultural): Depart from the lodge for a visit to the community of Huacahuasi and to meet the local people in their homes. Return to the lodge for a cooking class, lunch, and an afternoon of leisure.
Afternoon Alternative Activity B (Easy hike): Depart from the lodge for a visit to the community of Huacahuasi and an easy walk to a nearby waterfall and refreshing snack. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of leisure.
Approximately 1.5 hours
Easy
Afternoon Alternative Activity C (Challenging hike): A great day awaits you as you hike one of the most beautiful trails in the Cusco region! From the lodge, you’ll drive to the quaint village of Quiswarani, where you’ll begin hiking westward up a small valley dotted with lakes and herds of grazing alpacas. The trail then narrows into a series of switchbacks to Abra Huchuyccasa Pass, which you’ll reach after three hours. From the pass, you’ll have the most amazing views of distant mountain ranges and stunning turquoise lakes, whose brilliant hues are the result of bronze metal elements in their icy waters. Descending slightly, you’ll continue hiking another hour toward the second pass of the day at Phoñoccasa. From here you’ll descend to Qeywaqocha Lake for a leisurely lunch, then end your hike at the village of Qelqena. Along the way, enjoy spotting native bird species, including Andean geese, ducks, and plovers. The vehicle will meet you at the trailhead for the drive back to Huacahuasi.
Approximately 6.5 hours
Challenging
Max. elevation: 14,505’ / 4,421 m
The group reconvenes for the guide briefing, dinner, and overnight
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Huacahuasi Lodge
HDay 8Huacahuasi to Patacaancha and Ollantaytambo
Begin the day with a scenic drive from Huacahuasi to the remote village of Huilloc. From there, choose a morning hike from Huilloc to Pumamarka, or explore the village of Huilloc and nearby sheepherding community before regrouping for lunch and a midday exploration of the Pumamarka archaeological site. After lunch, choose to hike from Pumamarka to Ollantaytambo or drive and spend the afternoon exploring Ollantaytambo’s maze-like alleys and passageways.
Note: Afternoon hikers will meet the rest of the group at the hotel upon arrival in the Sacred Valley.
Activity A (Cultural morning): Depart by vehicle for the Sacred Valley where you’ll visit the market town of Huilloc and nearby sheepherding community to participate in a traditional Andean ceremony to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth) and her blessings for the health of the community livestock. Drive from Marcacocha to Pumamarka for an all-group tour of the archaeological site and lunch.
Activity B (Cultural afternoon): After lunch, take a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo and spend the afternoon exploring this charming Sacred Valley town.
Activity C (Moderate hike morning): Hike from Huilloc to Pumamarka.
Approximately 3 hours
Moderate
Activity D (Moderate hike afternoon): Hike from Pumamarka to Ollantaytambo
Approximately 3 hours
Moderate
The group reconvenes for the guide briefing and dinner. Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Begin your day with an optional early morning hike to the Inca storage houses high above the town for an impressive view of the Ollantaytambo fortress and ceremonial site. Afterwards, the entire group will meet at the entrance of the site for a guided tour. Midday, you will embark on a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to the charming town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu and enjoy a free afternoon. Alternatively, opt for an all-day hike from train marker KM 104 to the Machu Picchu Sun Gate on the classic Inca Trail (subject to additional cost).
After your five-day hike, you can enjoy a more relaxing day by skipping the morning hike and have a leisurely breakfast before visiting Ollantaytambo, which boasts an impressive archaeological site and a well-preserved Inca town structure. This was the estate of Emperor Pachacutec who conquered the region, building the town and the ceremonial center. Ollantaytambo dates back to the late 15th century and has some of the oldest continuously occupied dwellings in South America.
Next take the train to Machu Picchu: Train Services: PeruRail Expedition (Explorer Service), PeruRail Vistadome (Pioneer Service)
Optional A: Afternoon visit to the Machu Picchu citadel. (subject to additional cost)
Optional B: Hike on the classic Inca Trail, from KM 104 to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu. Duration: Approximately 6
hours | Hiking Level: Moderate to challenging. (subject to availability and additional cost)
Notes: Replaces the standard program day itinerary; this activity must be booked upon confirmation of your Sacred
Valley and Lares Adventure departure date in order to secure the necessary permits. It’s necessary to ensure you have
insurance in place before embarking on this activity.
Have a guide briefing, dinner, and overnight at the Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging
Aguas Calientes hotel
JDay 10Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary
Your journey to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning rollicking uphill bus ride. As you enter the ‘sanctuary’ (as locals refer to it), prepare to be awed by the imposing, skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among others. After a two-hour guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own, including a hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain* for dramatic views that stretch from the Urubamba River Valley to the edge of the Amazon Jungle.
At some point, be sure to take a moment and sit quietly–listen to the wind, meditate, and absorb the mystical energy that envelops you. After the visit you will have lunch in Aguas Calientes before a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1.5 hours) and vehicle transfer to your hotel in Cusco (approximately 1.5 hours). As night falls and you arrive amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, you will be touched by a feeling of peace and rejuvenation that will linger long after your journey home
*Note: Tickets for Huayna Picchu Mountain (8,924’ / 2,720m) may be available subject to additional cost. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, you may opt for a hike up Machu Picchu Mountain (10,112 / 3,082m), located next to the Machu Picchu Citadel on the southern side.
Alternate Activity A (Cultural late morning): Free time for further exploration.
Alternate Activity B (Active late morning): Hike up Huayna Picchu (subject to availability and additional cost).
Approximately 2.5 hours
Moderate to Challenging
Max. elevation: 8,924’ / 2,700 m
Take the train back to Cusco and overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Lodging
XO Art House or similar
KDay 11Flight to Lima & Depart
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a roughly five-hour Lima city tour before catching your flight home. Explore the dazzling Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas) in the historic city center, built in the early 16th century. It is surrounded by beautiful architectural buildings including the Government Palace, the 17th-century Cathedral of Lima, and Archbishop’s Palace.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Rates Per Person
Need to Know
Rates Per Person -
Land Cost (high season)
$5,750
Internal Airfare (estimate)
+ $600
• Requested Single Room: subject to a 50% supplement in addition to the standard retail cost/per person.
• Single traveler willing to share: no additional charge*
*Note: In the event that a traveler is willing to share a room, you will be assigned a guest roommate prior to your trip. If you have any preference, please let your Travel Specialist know.
Please note that this trip operates under different payment and cancellation policies than those described in our complete Terms & Conditions as noted on our website and elsewhere. Please review the complete Terms & Conditions prior to submitting a deposit.
Expenses covered
Normally, our stated land costs include the cost of all guides, leaders, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, food and entry fees as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the planned itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but, rarely, factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses not covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in itineraries; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
Deposit and payment schedule
$1000 non-refundable deposit per person per trip or the applicable amount based on the trip and the proximity of the departure date. Final payment for land arrangements is due 90 days prior to departure. Airlines require full payment when tickets are issued. The deposit may be made by Visa, Master Card, American Express, or check, and the Reservation Form may be submitted via our website.
Cancelation Policy
If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees as follows:
90 days or more Non refundable deposit
30-89 days $25% of land cost
0-29 days $100% of land cost
Transfer Fees
If you want to change your tour dates, the following fees apply:
90 or more days prior to departure: No charge for date or name changes.
89-30 days prior to departure: An Additional 15% of the total trip cost
29 to 0 days prior to departure: An Additional 50% of the total trip cost
*Transfers are only valid until the end of the next year (e.g., if you cancel in 2024, you must travel on a departure date by December 2025). In addition to the transfer fee, if there is an increase in the rate of the trip, from one year to the next, you are responsible for paying the difference.
*Transfer fees are charged at the time the new departure date is confirmed. You do not have to decide at that time which future departure date you would like to join, however, your trip must be taken by December of the next year.
Insurance
We REQUIRE a valid and enforceable* insurance policy for medical expense and emergency evacuation/repatriation for the duration of the trip. Any rescue, evacuation, repatriation and/or medical costs that may be required during a program including, but not limited to, cost of aircraft, must be paid by the guest. All guests are required to provide valid proof of insurance at time of final payment of their trip.
In consideration of the normal nuances and situations regarding travel in general, we highly recommend that every traveler purchase travel insurance that covers events like baggage loss, cancellations/interruption and trip delays. We recommend Travelex Insurance, also accessible at:https://www.travelexinsurance.com/trip-destination?go=bp&location=22-0398. For fastest service, enter your location number (22-0398) into the Quick Enrollment box and click “Go”. Or, reach them by phone at 800-228-9792. There are significant benefits in obtaining this insurance within 14 days of your original trip deposit.
In the case that a guest abandons the trip by choice or as a consequence of medical emergency protocol (which allows the guide or resident doctor to deny further participation of a guest on a trip), we will issue no refunds on the trip cost. Alternative plans can be arranged at additional costs to the guest.
*Some insurance providers discriminate between “Standard Travel Activities” and “Adventure Travel Activities”, for enforceability of medical coverage. Guests should make sure that the insurance policy acquired includes coverage for “Adventure Travel Activities” or similar.
Airfare
We can help you secure air travel arrangements to correspond with land travel booked through Journeys International. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we can help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times.
Itinerary Change Fee
There will be a $40 fee for changes once an itinerary has been confirmed and approved. Additional cancellation penalties or change fees may apply as per our terms and conditions. The passenger is responsible for such fees.
Duration 11 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost.
Group Size 2 - 14
The stated range indicates minimum required for guaranteed departure and maximum accepted on the scheduled dates. Exceptions can often be made for private departures.
Comfort Level
Superior
Comfortable Mountain Lodges
Activity Level
Demanding
Moderate to Challenging
Why Journeys International
Our purpose is to understand the journey you are on – not just the vacation you want to take – and to help you on your way.
We are here to help you plan the trip that will move you closer to your goals and help you fulfill your dreams.
We are here to help you plan a more inspiring, more provocative, more breathtaking, more transformational adventure.
We say “adventure” and not “trip” because, for us, a trip is just going someplace else, but an adventure is an experience that takes you someplace beyond your comfort zone – and therefore maximizes the potential for wonder, discovery, and potentially transformation.
Why trust Journeys to plan that kind of experience with you?
Journeys is an award-winning industry-leader with more than 40 years in business planning creative and thoughtful adventures in interesting places around the world
Our staff is professional and devoted, with adventure specialists in Ann Arbor and guides in the field who take pride in traveler satisfaction; many stay with us for decades
Our Ecological Code of Ethics has long stood as a model for others, and our Earth Preservation Fund puts our money where our mouth is
We go to the farthest corners of the earth – you’ll see some pretty remote destinations on our list, and if you want to challenge us with something new, we’ll likely be willing (though we’ll make sure you know if we’ve never experienced it firsthand)
We’re real people like you, starting with the real person who will answer the phone, right through the owner, Robin Pollak, who you can talk to any time you want (or even her parents, Joan & Will Weber, who started the company!)
We ask lots of questions and get to know you as well as possible to we can design the best experience for YOU
Your unique itinerary includes sites, accommodations, activities, and meetings with people hand selected for personal goals, passions, interests and abilities
Your personal adventure specialist stays with you from trip planning through departure to answer all your questions – promptly – and make sure every detail is handled so you are well prepared for your trip
Our partners on the ground in your destination will welcome you as a friend of a friend; we’ve been working with many of them for ages
We’re open and clear, and offer a complete picture of what you can expect while traveling. We don’t want to make an easy sale; we want to make an honest one.
24-hour emergency phone support while traveling
We’ll be excited to hear about the trip when you get back, and take all feedback seriously
Our travelers come back again and again, for five, ten, or more adventures — and they trust us enough to send their friends to us, too
We love what we do, and we love sharing our common passion with you.