October 5 – 12, 2022
Welcome to Peru, famously known as the Land of the Incas. They came from the Peruvian highlands in early 1200 and much of their culture still remain in the country to this day. The region is famous for its pisco sour, ceviche and Guinea Pigs, which are a delicacy in the Cusco region. No trip to Peru would be complete without a visit to the Pisac Market or seeing the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu for the first time. Get to meet the local Alpacas and llamas and be sure to embrace this once in a lifetime experience.
Hotels:
- Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness
- Trekking Tent, Inca Trail
- Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique
Included:
Meals:
- 7 Breakfasts
- 4 Lunches
- 5 Dinners
Activities:
- Visit the Pisac Market
- Luxury trekking through the Inca Trail
- Explore the awe-inspiring ancient ruins of Machu Picchu
- City tour of Cusco
Other Services:
- Airport transfers privately in an air-conditioned vehicle (one transfer per group)
- Transportation privately in an air-conditioned vehicle during the tours mentioned on the program
- Official English-Speaking guide service during the mentioned program
- Entrance fees, Road tolls, Taxes, VAT
- Inca Trail deluxe service
- Train service from Machu Picchu
Not Included:
- Tips for porters, guide and driver- the value of the tip is up to the client
- All other services not mentioned as included
- Personal expenses
- International and domestic airfare throughout the program
- International and domestic airport taxes, airport porter and extra baggage
- Hotel early check-in and late check-out
- Alcoholic drinks, personal expenses or entrance fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities
- Travel insurance
- COVID testing requirements needed for destination entry or departure if applicable
Notes:
- International flights should arrive and depart out of Cusco International Airport
- A non-refundable deposit of $750 for the Inca Trek permit is due upon each traveler reservation
Day
1
Cusco - Sacred Valley
Welcome to Cusco! After retrieving your luggage, transfer to Libertador Tambo del Inca hotel where you can relax and enjoy the amenities on property. Meet the rest of the group in the evening where you will have dinner at Pukawi Gourmet Restaurant welcoming you to Peru!
Dinner: Dinner
Accommodation: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness
Day
2
Sacred Valley
After breakfast, you are picked up from your hotel for a day full of culture and beautiful nature. Our first visit is to Moray, a small community famous for its embedded amphitheater that is formed by circular terraces which seem to disappear into the ground. Scientists think that Moray has played an important role in the agricultural research conducted by the Incas.
Shortly after your visit, you will head to the salt mines located near Maras dating from colonial time. We will then continue to Ollantaytambo, an ancient form standing proudly in the famous Sacred Valley. The day is concluded with a visit to Chinchero, believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. On Chinchero's main plaza, you find a colonial church built in the 17th century along with the chance to experience the Pisac Market.
The Pisac Market is one of the most famous markets in the Cusco region. A large section of the market offers souvenir stalls where you can find weaving, jewelry, ponchos, hats, Andean instruments, ceramics, alpaca products, and a range of other gifts to take home to loved ones. Upon returning to the hotel, the rest of your day will be at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness
Day
3
Sacred Valley - Huayllabamba
We start our day with a 51 mile drive in the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the starting point of our trek in the community of Piscacucho. Upon arrival, porters will be waiting with your equipment ready and will accompany you throughout the journey. They are an essential part of this adventure, and you will be glad to have them along for the ride. We will begin our journey parallel to the Urubamba River, toward the town of Miskay, surrounded by beautiful views of the imposing Mount Veronica. From here, climb to the viewpoint of Llactapata, where we observe this ancient Inca agricultural center. At this point, we will say goodbye to the Urubamba Valley and introduce ourselves to the Huayllabamba Valley, where we will camp in a village of the same name built on the foundations of an ancient Inca settlement.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Trekking Tent
Day
4
Huayllabamba- Pacaymayo
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our journey hiking up to Llulluchapampa, through the Uncas Forest, followed by the Dwarf Forest, and finally arrive at the top of the Inca Trail. Take in the breathtaking scenery as we reach the gap of Warmihuyñuska at 13,829 feet, where the landscape transforms into an arid Andean highland. We will then descend 2,952 feet by stone steps, bringing us to a cloud forest. In this area, we will have the opportunity to watch several species of native birds until we reach the Pacaymayo area where we will camp for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Trekking Tent
Day
5
Pacaymayo-Phuyupatamarca
Today, you will be taken aback by some of the most beautiful scenery we will encounter on the Inca trail. As we begin our ascent towards the Runkurakay Gap, take in the step of Warmiñuska and the valleys that descend to the Amazon. Continue towards the cloud forest as we make our way into a wide, paved and well-preserved Inca trail surrounded by orchids, ferns, and bromeliads to the ruins of Sayacmarca. It is an ideal habitat for birds and the Andean bear, which we will hopefully see in this area. Finally, we make our way to Phuyupatamarca, where we will camp and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Urubamba and Vilcanota mountain ranges. As we settle in, you will be in awe of the landscape which dissolves before our eyes to make way for the Amazon. Enjoy the rest of the evening at the campsite, recapping the highlights of our journey and wildlife that was observed along the way.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Trekking Tent
Day
6
Phuyupatamarca - Machu Picchu - Cusco
This morning from our camp near the ruins of Phuyupatamarca we will have the opportunity of seeing one of the most spectacular sunrises in the Andes, and a 360° view of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the impressive Salkantay and Pumasillo mountains.
Afterwards, we will descend 978 feet to the ruins of Intipata, an ancient agricultural and experimental center, with a spectacular view of the valley of Urubamba. We will continue to the most important and impressive archaeological site of the entire route: Wiñay Wayna. Then by a road covered with tropical vegetation, we will go to Intipunku (“Gate of the Sun”), where we will have the first fabulous view of Machu Picchu. Here we will begin the final descent to the Inca citadel where we will arrive at a special time that many people never experience. After taking in these awe-inspiring ancient ruins, we will take a bus to the town of Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique
Day
7
Cusco
After a leisurely breakfast, it's time to explore the magic of Cusco! This beautiful city has an interesting history, both from Inca and colonial times. You will start this half-day tour at Cusco’s main square, which was called Huacaypata (“Warriors Square”) by the Incas.
While the guide tells you more about the history of this special place, you can admire the city’s cathedral that was built between 1560 and 1664 with the red granite stones from the Inca Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. The cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings in Cusco, and hosts one of the most significant collections of gold and silver work of the colonial period. Next, we continue to Koricancha temple and the Convent of Santo Domingo. The convent was built on top of the most important Inca Temple, dedicated to the worship of the sun, with walls covered in gold leaf. Wandering through the streets of what once was the capital of the Inca Empire, you feel as if you are traveling through time.
Later in the afternoon, visit Manos of the comunidad, where you can learn more about llamas, alpacas and vicunas. You will be provided food to give them and have the opportunity to pet them as well. During the visit, the guide will explain the process the locals use to knit with the fur from the animals. At the end, you will have the chance to see some products made by locals as you pass through their store.
Tonight, our elaborate farewell dinner will be put on by one of Peru’s most famous chefs, Jorge Luis Ossio. The location of the restaurant alone makes it worth a visit—first you enter the Museo de Arte Precolombino. Once inside the museum, enter a smaller glass and steel box where you will have your dinner to celebrate the end of an unforgettable journey!
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique
Day
8
Cusco
After breakfast, spend the day at leisure to enjoy the city of Cusco. Shop for souvenirs, visit a local cafe or walk around the narrow streets as you take in your last day of the Peruvian landscape. Later in the afternoon, receive a private transfer from the hotel to the airport in Cusco as you bid farewell to Peru!
Meals: Breakfast
The activity Level for this tour is:
Challenging - Come prepared to sweat and exercise. Multiple high-altitude hikes, cycling, or other instances of heavy exercise. Prior training and/or frequent exercise highly recommended before travel.
Itinerary
Day
1
Cusco - Sacred Valley
Welcome to Cusco! After retrieving your luggage, transfer to Libertador Tambo del Inca hotel where you can relax and enjoy the amenities on property. Meet the rest of the group in the evening where you will have dinner at Pukawi Gourmet Restaurant welcoming you to Peru!
Dinner: Dinner
Accommodation: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness
Day
2
Sacred Valley
After breakfast, you are picked up from your hotel for a day full of culture and beautiful nature. Our first visit is to Moray, a small community famous for its embedded amphitheater that is formed by circular terraces which seem to disappear into the ground. Scientists think that Moray has played an important role in the agricultural research conducted by the Incas.
Shortly after your visit, you will head to the salt mines located near Maras dating from colonial time. We will then continue to Ollantaytambo, an ancient form standing proudly in the famous Sacred Valley. The day is concluded with a visit to Chinchero, believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. On Chinchero's main plaza, you find a colonial church built in the 17th century along with the chance to experience the Pisac Market.
The Pisac Market is one of the most famous markets in the Cusco region. A large section of the market offers souvenir stalls where you can find weaving, jewelry, ponchos, hats, Andean instruments, ceramics, alpaca products, and a range of other gifts to take home to loved ones. Upon returning to the hotel, the rest of your day will be at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness
Day
3
Sacred Valley - Huayllabamba
We start our day with a 51 mile drive in the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the starting point of our trek in the community of Piscacucho. Upon arrival, porters will be waiting with your equipment ready and will accompany you throughout the journey. They are an essential part of this adventure, and you will be glad to have them along for the ride. We will begin our journey parallel to the Urubamba River, toward the town of Miskay, surrounded by beautiful views of the imposing Mount Veronica. From here, climb to the viewpoint of Llactapata, where we observe this ancient Inca agricultural center. At this point, we will say goodbye to the Urubamba Valley and introduce ourselves to the Huayllabamba Valley, where we will camp in a village of the same name built on the foundations of an ancient Inca settlement.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Trekking Tent
Day
4
Huayllabamba- Pacaymayo
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our journey hiking up to Llulluchapampa, through the Uncas Forest, followed by the Dwarf Forest, and finally arrive at the top of the Inca Trail. Take in the breathtaking scenery as we reach the gap of Warmihuyñuska at 13,829 feet, where the landscape transforms into an arid Andean highland. We will then descend 2,952 feet by stone steps, bringing us to a cloud forest. In this area, we will have the opportunity to watch several species of native birds until we reach the Pacaymayo area where we will camp for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Trekking Tent
Day
5
Pacaymayo-Phuyupatamarca
Today, you will be taken aback by some of the most beautiful scenery we will encounter on the Inca trail. As we begin our ascent towards the Runkurakay Gap, take in the step of Warmiñuska and the valleys that descend to the Amazon. Continue towards the cloud forest as we make our way into a wide, paved and well-preserved Inca trail surrounded by orchids, ferns, and bromeliads to the ruins of Sayacmarca. It is an ideal habitat for birds and the Andean bear, which we will hopefully see in this area. Finally, we make our way to Phuyupatamarca, where we will camp and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Urubamba and Vilcanota mountain ranges. As we settle in, you will be in awe of the landscape which dissolves before our eyes to make way for the Amazon. Enjoy the rest of the evening at the campsite, recapping the highlights of our journey and wildlife that was observed along the way.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Trekking Tent
Day
6
Phuyupatamarca - Machu Picchu - Cusco
This morning from our camp near the ruins of Phuyupatamarca we will have the opportunity of seeing one of the most spectacular sunrises in the Andes, and a 360° view of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the impressive Salkantay and Pumasillo mountains.
Afterwards, we will descend 978 feet to the ruins of Intipata, an ancient agricultural and experimental center, with a spectacular view of the valley of Urubamba. We will continue to the most important and impressive archaeological site of the entire route: Wiñay Wayna. Then by a road covered with tropical vegetation, we will go to Intipunku (“Gate of the Sun”), where we will have the first fabulous view of Machu Picchu. Here we will begin the final descent to the Inca citadel where we will arrive at a special time that many people never experience. After taking in these awe-inspiring ancient ruins, we will take a bus to the town of Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique
Day
7
Cusco
After a leisurely breakfast, it's time to explore the magic of Cusco! This beautiful city has an interesting history, both from Inca and colonial times. You will start this half-day tour at Cusco’s main square, which was called Huacaypata (“Warriors Square”) by the Incas.
While the guide tells you more about the history of this special place, you can admire the city’s cathedral that was built between 1560 and 1664 with the red granite stones from the Inca Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. The cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings in Cusco, and hosts one of the most significant collections of gold and silver work of the colonial period. Next, we continue to Koricancha temple and the Convent of Santo Domingo. The convent was built on top of the most important Inca Temple, dedicated to the worship of the sun, with walls covered in gold leaf. Wandering through the streets of what once was the capital of the Inca Empire, you feel as if you are traveling through time.
Later in the afternoon, visit Manos of the comunidad, where you can learn more about llamas, alpacas and vicunas. You will be provided food to give them and have the opportunity to pet them as well. During the visit, the guide will explain the process the locals use to knit with the fur from the animals. At the end, you will have the chance to see some products made by locals as you pass through their store.
Tonight, our elaborate farewell dinner will be put on by one of Peru’s most famous chefs, Jorge Luis Ossio. The location of the restaurant alone makes it worth a visit—first you enter the Museo de Arte Precolombino. Once inside the museum, enter a smaller glass and steel box where you will have your dinner to celebrate the end of an unforgettable journey!
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique
Day
8
Cusco
After breakfast, spend the day at leisure to enjoy the city of Cusco. Shop for souvenirs, visit a local cafe or walk around the narrow streets as you take in your last day of the Peruvian landscape. Later in the afternoon, receive a private transfer from the hotel to the airport in Cusco as you bid farewell to Peru!
Meals: Breakfast
The activity Level for this tour is:
Challenging - Come prepared to sweat and exercise. Multiple high-altitude hikes, cycling, or other instances of heavy exercise. Prior training and/or frequent exercise highly recommended before travel.
Have Questions? Email Us
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Accommodation names are subject to availability. Should accommodation mentioned on specific itinerary not be available, a similar or higher rated accommodation will be substituted. Single room allotments are subject to availability and booked on a FCFS basis. Fit4Travel will work with each vendor or supplier to secure as many single rooms as possible to accommodate each traveler.