Crossing the Andes and the Amazon
ID: GYG527548-918406
Category:
Country: Peru
Country: Peru
Duration: 16 days
Description
A trip to discover the major sites Peru. Arequipa Colca Canyon Lake Titicaca Cusco you will of the most famous paths in Latin America the Inca Trail rainbow mountain and the depths of the Amazon
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Upon arriving in the city of Lima, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives, who will give you a brief introduction to the city and to our services while in route to the hotel.
You will have the afternoon free.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Day 2: Flight Lima – Arequipa and city tour
At the scheduled departure time, you will be met by the transport service and escorted to the airport to board the flight to Arequipa.
Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives, who will give you a brief introduction to the city and to our services in route to the hotel.
You will begin your tour with a visit to the Convento de Santa Catalina (Convent of St. Catherine). Walk through its beautiful buildings as your guide takes you on a journey back in time through one of the largest holdings of colonial art in the Americas.
The tour of the city will continue as you visit the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus). After finishing your tour of the church, you will move on to the Mirador del Carmen (a natural lookout point), ten minutes from the city center. From there you will be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the Chili River Valley and of the majestic Misti. Next, you will stop off in the upscale neighborhood of Yanahuara and get a chance to walk along its wide cobblestone avenues and see its old ashlar stone mansions, which still preserve their traditional gardens.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Day 3: From Arequipa to Colca Valley
Early in the morning, you will depart Arequipa to embark on a journey across a land of snow-covered volcanoes, inhospitable pampas, and incredibly beautiful quaint villages, arriving finally in the Colca Valley.
The first stop will be in the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, whose rugged plains are home to vast herds of llamas, Alpaca, and Vicuña. You will continue the journey, until you reach the Mirador de los Andes (Lookout Point of the Andes) in Patapampa. This lookout point, at 16,100 ft (4,900 m) above sea level, will offer spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the various volcanoes surrounding Arequipa, including the Hualca Hualca, the Sabancaya, and the Ampato.
Next, you will head to the town of Chivay (close to where the Colca Valley begins) for a closer inspection of the impressive system of platforms and terraces built by the ancient Collagua and Cabana inhabitants.
After lunch, you will make your way to the hotel.
Rest of the afternoon free to take advantage of the hotel's amenities, enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings, or simply rest and recover for the next day, as you see fit.
Enjoy an excellent night's rest at your hotel in the Colca Valley.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4: Road trip from Colca Valley to Puno
Early in the morning, you will travel to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor (Condor Cross Lookout). it is considered to be the best spot in the world to see the majestic Andean Condor in flight. Be on the lookout for the sudden appearance of this emblematic bird on the verge of extinction. With a little luck, you will enjoy a truly awe-inspiring experience as you watch this awesome bird soar, almost magically, ever higher into the infinite blue sky. From this vantage point, you will be able to look out across one of the world's deepest canyons (13,650 feet [4,160 m] deep at the northern end and 11,800 feet [3,600 m] deep on its southern end).
After lunch, you will experience an awe-inspiring trip of about six hours through the unique landscapes of the high mountain plain.
The trip will begin in Colca Valley, and shortly thereafter you will reach the Mirador de los Andes (Lookout Point of the Andes) in Patapampa. Here you will be able to view a landscape covered with yaretas, a local type of cactus that has adapted to the high altitude, and you will see the snow-capped peaks of the various volcanos that surround Arequipa, among them the Hualca Calca, the Sabancaya, and the Ampato.
Continuing the trip, you will circle along the base of the Chucura volcano as you make your way towards Pampa Cañahuas, a rugged plain that belongs to the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a place where guanacos, alpacas, and vicuñas freely roam. The pastoral countryside of Pampa Cañahuas, covered with ichu grass and yareta cacti, reveals a unique flora capable of surviving at extreme altitudes and temperatures. A few miles away, you will be able to see the grand Bosque de Piedras de Imata (Imata Stone Forest) in the distance. You will then arrive in Lagunillas, which sits at 13,684 ft. (4,171 m) above sea level. Here you will observe numerous species of migratory and Andean birds, among them Andean flamingos and crakes. You will end your trip in the legendary city of Puno, built on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Overnight in Puno
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Touristic bus
Breakfast, lunch
Day 5: Uros & Taquile Island excursion
Today, you will enjoy an extraordinary journey across the world's highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. Travel to legendary places where time seems to have stood still. Your first stop will be the Uros floating islands. These are a peculiar grouping of around 40 small islands made totally of totora, a natural reed that grows around the lake. The cheerful inhabitants will invite you to get to know their traditional lifestyle and customs...
You will continue your voyage across the placid waters of the lake until you come to the picturesque island of Taquile, a peaceful place where old Quechua traditions live in perfect balance with modernity. Discover a landscape distinct from the other islands thanks to the Incan terraces filled with local flowers and crops. The rich colors of the clothing worn by the local inhabitants will amaze you; admire their beautiful hand-made fabrics. Most importantly, enjoy the unbelievable hospitality of the islanders, known as Taquileños, who will make your visit to the island a memorable one.
Before making your way back to Puno, you will have lunch at a local home.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Private boat
Hotel 3 star / Included
Breakfast, lunch and diner
Day 6: Road trip from Puno to Cusco
In this day we will depart from Puno to Cusco on board a comfortable touristic bus, as we enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the Andes. During our trip, we will make a brief stop at Pucará, known as the place where the Toritos (little bulls) of Pucará are made.
We will then cross the La Raya Pass, which lies at 14,222 feet (4,335 meters) above sea level. There we will see herds of vicuñas and llamas. Our following stop is Racchi, one of the most important constructions of the Inca Empire, known for its extraordinary architecture. Our last stop will be the town of Andahuaylillas, a friendly, warm-weather town which is home to one of the most unique churches in the Andes, known as Peru’s Sistine Chapel. You will be dazzled by the beautifully decorated murals and frescoes covering walls, baseboards, ceilings and facades.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Touristic bus
Breakfast and lunch
Day 7: Cusco city tour
History-filled alleys, churches, walls and archeological treasures await you in the magnificent Incan capital.
You will begin your tour as you enjoy the best view of the city of Cusco from atop Cerro Pukamoqo (Red Peak), a natural scenic overlook from which the outstretched arms of Cristo Blanco, a massive white statue of Christ, embrace the city in a benevolent gesture. You will then visit the nearby Fortaleza de Sacsayhuamán (Fortress of Sacsayhuamán), a colossal structure of enormous stones, carved and fitted together with incredible precision.
As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the Mercado de San Pedro (Market of St. Peter), which being the city’s main street market, will give you an opportunity to get to know the products of Cusco, overwhelming you with the sights, aromas, tastes, and colors of the region.
Just a few blocks away, you will discover one of the most impressive buildings of Incan Cusco: The Korikancha (the Golden Temple) - a temple dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. You will complete the day with a stroll through the Cusco Plaza de Armas (Main Square), where you will visit the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Day 8: Sacred Valley tour Chinchero - Moray - Salt mines –Ollantaytambo
On day 3 the pickup from your hotel will be at 8:30 am. With our private transportation, we will head towards Chinchero which is home to the famous Peruvian weaving factory.
After the visit, we will stop at a viewpoint of to enjoy the Beautiful Andean snowcap mountains and villages in the valley with views of crops dressing the surrounding mountains.
After a few scenic photos and a short ride, we arrive at Moray also known as “The Greenhouses of the Incas”
The terraces have varied microclimates depending on how deep you go into this circular depression. These terraces have been used by the Incas to discover the optimal growing conditions for their crops.
Continuing our journey to the 3rd site, we will pass through the colonial town of Maras, ascending our way downhill to the pre-Inca salt mine. Thousands of saltpans have been used for salt extraction since Inca times.
lunch break will be in the town of Urubamba mid-day (1 Hour approx.)
Finally, we drive to Ollantaytambo, having time to explore the age-old, massive and beautiful Inca ruins with your tour guide explaining the rich history.
Our van will be ready for us for the short ride to drop you off at your Hotel in Ollantaytambo.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast
Day 9: OLLANTAYTAMBO – PISKACUCHO – WAYLLABAMBA
Departure around kilometer 82, starting point of your trek
Here we cruise past the first checkpoint where your passports and permits will be checked by the park rangers.
(It is mandatory to have your original physical passport with you at this point otherwise entry to the park will not be granted)
We will initiate our trek along the left bank of the Urubamba River that follows to the Northeast of the Urubamba valley.
While hiking we will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of the green valleys and myriad of flora and fauna, as well as snow-capped mountains such as Veronica and W’akay Willca.
After a 3-hour hike we arrive to the first areological sight of Llactapata located at (2,650m/8,747ft) and after a short visit we will continue with our hike for 30 minutes to Tarayoc where we will set up the tent for lunch time.
After lunch follows a 2-hour hike to Kusichaca valley to reach our first camp site caled Ayapata lokated in a green valley and small village of Wayllabamba (3,000m / 9,900ft) where we will have some tea, dinner and spend the night in our tents.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Lunch, afternoon tea time and dinner
Camping, tents
Distance 12kms
Private vehicle
Day 10: WAYLLABAMBA – WARMIWAÑUSCA - PAQAYMAYU
Day 2 is the toughest day of the trek but after a healthy breakfast, you will have all the power you need to get to our destination! We will start hiking up a moderate hill for five hours through the cloud forest to reach the highest point of our trek, the Warmiwañusca pass or (Dead Woman Pass), located at 4,215m/13,907ft.
The view from this point is great for taking photos of different microclimates in the surroundings, like magnificent mountains, beautiful green valleys and flora, and fauna as well.
After an enjoyable time at this beautiful sight, we descend for two hours to our second camp located (3,600m/11,877ft), where we have our lunch, have time to rest and after dinner spend the night in our tents.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon Tea time and dinner
Camping, tents
Distance 10kms
Day 11: PAQAYMAYU – CHAQ’ICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑANWAYNA
Day 3 is the longest day of our trek but with a lot to see and full of excitement as the final visiting day to Machu Picchu approaches. After a delicious breakfast, we walk uphill for one hour to the archaeological site of Runcurakay located at (3,800m/12,540ft) to explore its archeological site. Then we ascend to the Runcurakay pass located at (3,977m/13,127ft) from which, we can enjoy the breathtaking surrounding mountains and lakes.
After enjoying all the beautiful sights, we will have short descend to next archaeological site of Sayacmarca located at (3,600m/11,877ft), then another short descent to Chaquicocha for lunch and a short rest.
After lunch, we continue with an easy hike to the pass of Phuyupatamarca located at (3,650m/12,047ft) from which we can enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu Mountain, and the Urubamba canyon with its surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Then we will descend through the cloud forest for three hours, all downhill to the third campsite Wiñay Wayna located at (2,650m/8,747ft) where we spend the night.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon Tea time and dinner
Camping, tents
Distance 16kms
Day 12: WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHU PICCHU
With an early wakeup at around 4:00 am, we will have breakfast and start our day 4 on the Inca trail to get to Machu Picchu for our 6:00 am entrance time at the Inti Punku Sun Gate. After walking 40 minutes, we enter to the citadel of Machu Picchu located at (2,400m/7,872 ft.) and from this point your 2 hours guided tour begins. At the control point, we will register ourselves and leave our belongings so we can walk around more comfortably!
(Backpack that are bigger than 25L are not allowed inside the citadel)
Machu Picchu means ¨Old Mountain¨ in Quechua. Quite often the early morning mist will envelop the site before dawn, and to watch the day progress and to see the sunburn off the mist is a thrilling sight.
Additional hikes need to be booked 3 to 5 months in advance as these depend on availability! these hikes need to be paid for in advance at booking!
· If chosen in advance you can climb (Huayna Picchu ($75US per person)) or (Machu Picchu Mountain ($75US per person)) to appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu and the valleys below from a higher viewpoint.
After your visit, you will descend to Aguas Calientes have a leisurely lunch on your own, and later board train which departs for the return trip to Cusco stopping at the Ollantaytambo train station where our driver will be waiting for you for your return trip to Cusco.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Breakfast, lunch
Distance 6kms
Bus, train, private van.
Day 13: Rainbow Mountain trek
With an early pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 04:00 am, we begin your amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek with a 3-hour drive through the South Valley ending up at the trailhead at Quesiuno which is located at an altitude of (4,326 mts/14,189 ft)
On this trek, you will experience amazing views of Inca terraces, valleys filled with alpacas and vicunas, Rocky Mountains with snowy glacier peaks and the amazing news of the Rainbow Mountain itself!
The views of the Ausangate Mountain will follow us through the trail as we hike through different villages and interact with the local people, who are still keeping the culture alive. It will take us around 3 to 3.5 hours, to finally reach our destination to the Rainbow Mountain (5,020mts /16,466ft).
At the summit you will have some time to rest, and enjoy the scenery! take photos and soak up the environment. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the top.
Once we regroup, we will hike back down the trail we came on. The hike takes 2.5 hours back to the trailhead. Our van will be waiting for us when we return. On the 3-hour drive back to Cusco you will be able to rest a bit from this great hike and share the experience with your friends and family!
You can rent a horse from local people at the starting point of the trek if you wish!
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Day 14: Flight Cusco – Puerto Maldonado
At the scheduled time, transfer to Cusco airport to board your flight to Puerto Maldonado
You will start your journey arriving in Puerto Maldonado, where our staff will welcome you and provide you with the necessary information for your stay.
You will ride in a canoe with an outboard motor along the Madre de Dios River to the selected lodge.
Depending on your arrival schedule, you will enjoy lunch made with organic ingredients and native flavors. After lunch you will begin your activities.
** The activities will be detailed at the time of operation, since it depends on the selected lodge but mainly, they are walks and canoe trips to observe birds and mammals.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Lodge / Included
Canoe
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 15: Puerto Maldonado
Wake up at 5:30 am for some coffee or tea before leaving for Lake Sandoval. Your guide will hand out a bagged breakfast and snack for the excursion.
6:00 am: Start our tour Lake Sandoval. After roughly 20 minutes of travel on the river Madre de Dios, we arrive at the landing stage of Lake Sandoval. During a 3 km hike through the wild vegetation, we will enter the territory of Tambopata National Reserve, where you will have the chance to admire giant trees, different snakes, monkeys (squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys) and various birds (notably the Hoatzin – also known as the stink bird-, kingfishers and snakebirds).
Once on Lake Sandoval, we will embark in small rowboats in search of giant river otters. We will also have the possibility to spot a good number of other reptiles, mammals and birds in their natural habitat. When the guide finds an opportune spot where you can continue to observe the nature, we will eat breakfast. For the return trip, make sure you have gathered your belongings and we will row back to the pier.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Lodge / Included
Canoe
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 16: Flight Puerto Maldonado – Lima - International Flight
Wake up at 5:30 am for some coffee or tea before leaving for a 20-minute walk to the clay lick, where you will have the possibility to observe 3 to 5 types of parrots.
The parrots come to the clay lick to ingest a particular kind of clay, only found in certain areas of this region. The clay is vital for the metabolic regulation of the birds, and therefore is host to a colorful and veritably delightful and exciting event.
After breakfast, we will return to the city of Puerto Maldonado by boat.
One of our vehicles will receive you at the port. After a short stop at our office, we will drive to the local market where the local population supplies itself with foods and other products. During a short visit of around 20-minutes, you will be able to appreciate the different typical products of the area.
We will then head to the airport to check-in for your respective flights, Flight to Lima, then transfer to your international flight
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Airport assistance
Private transport
Breakfast
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Upon arriving in the city of Lima, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives, who will give you a brief introduction to the city and to our services while in route to the hotel.
You will have the afternoon free.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Day 2: Flight Lima – Arequipa and city tour
At the scheduled departure time, you will be met by the transport service and escorted to the airport to board the flight to Arequipa.
Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives, who will give you a brief introduction to the city and to our services in route to the hotel.
You will begin your tour with a visit to the Convento de Santa Catalina (Convent of St. Catherine). Walk through its beautiful buildings as your guide takes you on a journey back in time through one of the largest holdings of colonial art in the Americas.
The tour of the city will continue as you visit the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus). After finishing your tour of the church, you will move on to the Mirador del Carmen (a natural lookout point), ten minutes from the city center. From there you will be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the Chili River Valley and of the majestic Misti. Next, you will stop off in the upscale neighborhood of Yanahuara and get a chance to walk along its wide cobblestone avenues and see its old ashlar stone mansions, which still preserve their traditional gardens.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Day 3: From Arequipa to Colca Valley
Early in the morning, you will depart Arequipa to embark on a journey across a land of snow-covered volcanoes, inhospitable pampas, and incredibly beautiful quaint villages, arriving finally in the Colca Valley.
The first stop will be in the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, whose rugged plains are home to vast herds of llamas, Alpaca, and Vicuña. You will continue the journey, until you reach the Mirador de los Andes (Lookout Point of the Andes) in Patapampa. This lookout point, at 16,100 ft (4,900 m) above sea level, will offer spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the various volcanoes surrounding Arequipa, including the Hualca Hualca, the Sabancaya, and the Ampato.
Next, you will head to the town of Chivay (close to where the Colca Valley begins) for a closer inspection of the impressive system of platforms and terraces built by the ancient Collagua and Cabana inhabitants.
After lunch, you will make your way to the hotel.
Rest of the afternoon free to take advantage of the hotel's amenities, enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings, or simply rest and recover for the next day, as you see fit.
Enjoy an excellent night's rest at your hotel in the Colca Valley.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4: Road trip from Colca Valley to Puno
Early in the morning, you will travel to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor (Condor Cross Lookout). it is considered to be the best spot in the world to see the majestic Andean Condor in flight. Be on the lookout for the sudden appearance of this emblematic bird on the verge of extinction. With a little luck, you will enjoy a truly awe-inspiring experience as you watch this awesome bird soar, almost magically, ever higher into the infinite blue sky. From this vantage point, you will be able to look out across one of the world's deepest canyons (13,650 feet [4,160 m] deep at the northern end and 11,800 feet [3,600 m] deep on its southern end).
After lunch, you will experience an awe-inspiring trip of about six hours through the unique landscapes of the high mountain plain.
The trip will begin in Colca Valley, and shortly thereafter you will reach the Mirador de los Andes (Lookout Point of the Andes) in Patapampa. Here you will be able to view a landscape covered with yaretas, a local type of cactus that has adapted to the high altitude, and you will see the snow-capped peaks of the various volcanos that surround Arequipa, among them the Hualca Calca, the Sabancaya, and the Ampato.
Continuing the trip, you will circle along the base of the Chucura volcano as you make your way towards Pampa Cañahuas, a rugged plain that belongs to the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a place where guanacos, alpacas, and vicuñas freely roam. The pastoral countryside of Pampa Cañahuas, covered with ichu grass and yareta cacti, reveals a unique flora capable of surviving at extreme altitudes and temperatures. A few miles away, you will be able to see the grand Bosque de Piedras de Imata (Imata Stone Forest) in the distance. You will then arrive in Lagunillas, which sits at 13,684 ft. (4,171 m) above sea level. Here you will observe numerous species of migratory and Andean birds, among them Andean flamingos and crakes. You will end your trip in the legendary city of Puno, built on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Overnight in Puno
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Touristic bus
Breakfast, lunch
Day 5: Uros & Taquile Island excursion
Today, you will enjoy an extraordinary journey across the world's highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. Travel to legendary places where time seems to have stood still. Your first stop will be the Uros floating islands. These are a peculiar grouping of around 40 small islands made totally of totora, a natural reed that grows around the lake. The cheerful inhabitants will invite you to get to know their traditional lifestyle and customs...
You will continue your voyage across the placid waters of the lake until you come to the picturesque island of Taquile, a peaceful place where old Quechua traditions live in perfect balance with modernity. Discover a landscape distinct from the other islands thanks to the Incan terraces filled with local flowers and crops. The rich colors of the clothing worn by the local inhabitants will amaze you; admire their beautiful hand-made fabrics. Most importantly, enjoy the unbelievable hospitality of the islanders, known as Taquileños, who will make your visit to the island a memorable one.
Before making your way back to Puno, you will have lunch at a local home.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Private boat
Hotel 3 star / Included
Breakfast, lunch and diner
Day 6: Road trip from Puno to Cusco
In this day we will depart from Puno to Cusco on board a comfortable touristic bus, as we enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the Andes. During our trip, we will make a brief stop at Pucará, known as the place where the Toritos (little bulls) of Pucará are made.
We will then cross the La Raya Pass, which lies at 14,222 feet (4,335 meters) above sea level. There we will see herds of vicuñas and llamas. Our following stop is Racchi, one of the most important constructions of the Inca Empire, known for its extraordinary architecture. Our last stop will be the town of Andahuaylillas, a friendly, warm-weather town which is home to one of the most unique churches in the Andes, known as Peru’s Sistine Chapel. You will be dazzled by the beautifully decorated murals and frescoes covering walls, baseboards, ceilings and facades.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Touristic bus
Breakfast and lunch
Day 7: Cusco city tour
History-filled alleys, churches, walls and archeological treasures await you in the magnificent Incan capital.
You will begin your tour as you enjoy the best view of the city of Cusco from atop Cerro Pukamoqo (Red Peak), a natural scenic overlook from which the outstretched arms of Cristo Blanco, a massive white statue of Christ, embrace the city in a benevolent gesture. You will then visit the nearby Fortaleza de Sacsayhuamán (Fortress of Sacsayhuamán), a colossal structure of enormous stones, carved and fitted together with incredible precision.
As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the Mercado de San Pedro (Market of St. Peter), which being the city’s main street market, will give you an opportunity to get to know the products of Cusco, overwhelming you with the sights, aromas, tastes, and colors of the region.
Just a few blocks away, you will discover one of the most impressive buildings of Incan Cusco: The Korikancha (the Golden Temple) - a temple dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. You will complete the day with a stroll through the Cusco Plaza de Armas (Main Square), where you will visit the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Day 8: Sacred Valley tour Chinchero - Moray - Salt mines –Ollantaytambo
On day 3 the pickup from your hotel will be at 8:30 am. With our private transportation, we will head towards Chinchero which is home to the famous Peruvian weaving factory.
After the visit, we will stop at a viewpoint of to enjoy the Beautiful Andean snowcap mountains and villages in the valley with views of crops dressing the surrounding mountains.
After a few scenic photos and a short ride, we arrive at Moray also known as “The Greenhouses of the Incas”
The terraces have varied microclimates depending on how deep you go into this circular depression. These terraces have been used by the Incas to discover the optimal growing conditions for their crops.
Continuing our journey to the 3rd site, we will pass through the colonial town of Maras, ascending our way downhill to the pre-Inca salt mine. Thousands of saltpans have been used for salt extraction since Inca times.
lunch break will be in the town of Urubamba mid-day (1 Hour approx.)
Finally, we drive to Ollantaytambo, having time to explore the age-old, massive and beautiful Inca ruins with your tour guide explaining the rich history.
Our van will be ready for us for the short ride to drop you off at your Hotel in Ollantaytambo.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast
Day 9: OLLANTAYTAMBO – PISKACUCHO – WAYLLABAMBA
Departure around kilometer 82, starting point of your trek
Here we cruise past the first checkpoint where your passports and permits will be checked by the park rangers.
(It is mandatory to have your original physical passport with you at this point otherwise entry to the park will not be granted)
We will initiate our trek along the left bank of the Urubamba River that follows to the Northeast of the Urubamba valley.
While hiking we will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of the green valleys and myriad of flora and fauna, as well as snow-capped mountains such as Veronica and W’akay Willca.
After a 3-hour hike we arrive to the first areological sight of Llactapata located at (2,650m/8,747ft) and after a short visit we will continue with our hike for 30 minutes to Tarayoc where we will set up the tent for lunch time.
After lunch follows a 2-hour hike to Kusichaca valley to reach our first camp site caled Ayapata lokated in a green valley and small village of Wayllabamba (3,000m / 9,900ft) where we will have some tea, dinner and spend the night in our tents.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Lunch, afternoon tea time and dinner
Camping, tents
Distance 12kms
Private vehicle
Day 10: WAYLLABAMBA – WARMIWAÑUSCA - PAQAYMAYU
Day 2 is the toughest day of the trek but after a healthy breakfast, you will have all the power you need to get to our destination! We will start hiking up a moderate hill for five hours through the cloud forest to reach the highest point of our trek, the Warmiwañusca pass or (Dead Woman Pass), located at 4,215m/13,907ft.
The view from this point is great for taking photos of different microclimates in the surroundings, like magnificent mountains, beautiful green valleys and flora, and fauna as well.
After an enjoyable time at this beautiful sight, we descend for two hours to our second camp located (3,600m/11,877ft), where we have our lunch, have time to rest and after dinner spend the night in our tents.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon Tea time and dinner
Camping, tents
Distance 10kms
Day 11: PAQAYMAYU – CHAQ’ICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑANWAYNA
Day 3 is the longest day of our trek but with a lot to see and full of excitement as the final visiting day to Machu Picchu approaches. After a delicious breakfast, we walk uphill for one hour to the archaeological site of Runcurakay located at (3,800m/12,540ft) to explore its archeological site. Then we ascend to the Runcurakay pass located at (3,977m/13,127ft) from which, we can enjoy the breathtaking surrounding mountains and lakes.
After enjoying all the beautiful sights, we will have short descend to next archaeological site of Sayacmarca located at (3,600m/11,877ft), then another short descent to Chaquicocha for lunch and a short rest.
After lunch, we continue with an easy hike to the pass of Phuyupatamarca located at (3,650m/12,047ft) from which we can enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu Mountain, and the Urubamba canyon with its surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Then we will descend through the cloud forest for three hours, all downhill to the third campsite Wiñay Wayna located at (2,650m/8,747ft) where we spend the night.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon Tea time and dinner
Camping, tents
Distance 16kms
Day 12: WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHU PICCHU
With an early wakeup at around 4:00 am, we will have breakfast and start our day 4 on the Inca trail to get to Machu Picchu for our 6:00 am entrance time at the Inti Punku Sun Gate. After walking 40 minutes, we enter to the citadel of Machu Picchu located at (2,400m/7,872 ft.) and from this point your 2 hours guided tour begins. At the control point, we will register ourselves and leave our belongings so we can walk around more comfortably!
(Backpack that are bigger than 25L are not allowed inside the citadel)
Machu Picchu means ¨Old Mountain¨ in Quechua. Quite often the early morning mist will envelop the site before dawn, and to watch the day progress and to see the sunburn off the mist is a thrilling sight.
Additional hikes need to be booked 3 to 5 months in advance as these depend on availability! these hikes need to be paid for in advance at booking!
· If chosen in advance you can climb (Huayna Picchu ($75US per person)) or (Machu Picchu Mountain ($75US per person)) to appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu and the valleys below from a higher viewpoint.
After your visit, you will descend to Aguas Calientes have a leisurely lunch on your own, and later board train which departs for the return trip to Cusco stopping at the Ollantaytambo train station where our driver will be waiting for you for your return trip to Cusco.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Breakfast, lunch
Distance 6kms
Bus, train, private van.
Day 13: Rainbow Mountain trek
With an early pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 04:00 am, we begin your amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek with a 3-hour drive through the South Valley ending up at the trailhead at Quesiuno which is located at an altitude of (4,326 mts/14,189 ft)
On this trek, you will experience amazing views of Inca terraces, valleys filled with alpacas and vicunas, Rocky Mountains with snowy glacier peaks and the amazing news of the Rainbow Mountain itself!
The views of the Ausangate Mountain will follow us through the trail as we hike through different villages and interact with the local people, who are still keeping the culture alive. It will take us around 3 to 3.5 hours, to finally reach our destination to the Rainbow Mountain (5,020mts /16,466ft).
At the summit you will have some time to rest, and enjoy the scenery! take photos and soak up the environment. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the top.
Once we regroup, we will hike back down the trail we came on. The hike takes 2.5 hours back to the trailhead. Our van will be waiting for us when we return. On the 3-hour drive back to Cusco you will be able to rest a bit from this great hike and share the experience with your friends and family!
You can rent a horse from local people at the starting point of the trek if you wish!
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Hotel 3 star / Included
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Day 14: Flight Cusco – Puerto Maldonado
At the scheduled time, transfer to Cusco airport to board your flight to Puerto Maldonado
You will start your journey arriving in Puerto Maldonado, where our staff will welcome you and provide you with the necessary information for your stay.
You will ride in a canoe with an outboard motor along the Madre de Dios River to the selected lodge.
Depending on your arrival schedule, you will enjoy lunch made with organic ingredients and native flavors. After lunch you will begin your activities.
** The activities will be detailed at the time of operation, since it depends on the selected lodge but mainly, they are walks and canoe trips to observe birds and mammals.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Lodge / Included
Canoe
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 15: Puerto Maldonado
Wake up at 5:30 am for some coffee or tea before leaving for Lake Sandoval. Your guide will hand out a bagged breakfast and snack for the excursion.
6:00 am: Start our tour Lake Sandoval. After roughly 20 minutes of travel on the river Madre de Dios, we arrive at the landing stage of Lake Sandoval. During a 3 km hike through the wild vegetation, we will enter the territory of Tambopata National Reserve, where you will have the chance to admire giant trees, different snakes, monkeys (squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys) and various birds (notably the Hoatzin – also known as the stink bird-, kingfishers and snakebirds).
Once on Lake Sandoval, we will embark in small rowboats in search of giant river otters. We will also have the possibility to spot a good number of other reptiles, mammals and birds in their natural habitat. When the guide finds an opportune spot where you can continue to observe the nature, we will eat breakfast. For the return trip, make sure you have gathered your belongings and we will row back to the pier.
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Tickets for visits
Lodge / Included
Canoe
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 16: Flight Puerto Maldonado – Lima - International Flight
Wake up at 5:30 am for some coffee or tea before leaving for a 20-minute walk to the clay lick, where you will have the possibility to observe 3 to 5 types of parrots.
The parrots come to the clay lick to ingest a particular kind of clay, only found in certain areas of this region. The clay is vital for the metabolic regulation of the birds, and therefore is host to a colorful and veritably delightful and exciting event.
After breakfast, we will return to the city of Puerto Maldonado by boat.
One of our vehicles will receive you at the port. After a short stop at our office, we will drive to the local market where the local population supplies itself with foods and other products. During a short visit of around 20-minutes, you will be able to appreciate the different typical products of the area.
We will then head to the airport to check-in for your respective flights, Flight to Lima, then transfer to your international flight
It's included
Local English-speaking guide.
Airport assistance
Private transport
Breakfast
Highlights
- A trip to discover the major sites Peru.
- You will discover one of the most famous paths in Latin America, the Inca Trail
- Visit of the city of Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Cusco region
- Visit of the Rainbow Mountain
- The Amazon whose green vegetation serves as a backdrop to the most diverse color
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Your guide will be waiting for you with a sign with your name. At the airport, look for the departure gate where your guide will be waiting for you.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.