Luxury Peru Walk (Sacred Valley, Cusco & Machu Picchu) 7D6N, Fully Guided

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 4.8km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 61m (200ft), Elevation loss: 183m (700ft)
Level 3, Approx. 10km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 61m (200ft), Elevation loss: 335m (1100ft)
Level 4, Approx. 13km (8 miles), Elevation gain: 61m (200ft), Elevation loss: 518m (1700ft)

Meet your leaders in the courtyard of Inkaterra La Casona, located at Plaza Las Nazarenas 211 in Cusco. Arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's hike (your luggage will be transported to your first night's accommodation). Since most of our activities take place between 9,000- 11,000 feet, we highly recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least one full day before the trip starts to become better acclimated to the elevation; arriving any later may keep you from fully enjoying our planned activities.

Begin with a shuttle for a breathtaking climb near the hamlet of Maras. Delve into the agricultural richness of the valley where you can spot pueblos. Be captivated by Maras’ isolated village showcasing spectacular salt pans and agricultural terraces at Moray Archaeological Complex. Later, ally with a local guide who will share intriguing insides along the way. You’ll be warmly invited by local friends into their home for a classic farm-to-table lunch - an unforgettable taste that lingers! As you get charged up to spectate the nearing wonders, start walking towards the famed Inca salt pans. Alternatively, you can ride a quad bike to this extraordinary highlight of the day.

Descending down the Urubamba Velley, marvel at the sight of sheer entrancing maze of white-brinked pools unfolding before you! The underground spring nurtures each salt basin which is harvested, scraped, and raked for centuries. Like family heirlooms, these plots are handed down from one generation to the next. Derive pleasure from tasting some of the salt-made items like chocolates, cosmetics and more. If the salt pans allure you to walk further continue your descend to the river valley or simply opt to board a shuttle to your lodging for the next two nights, Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa.

Spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding at your picturesque lodge, a member of the Relais & Chateaux. Laze by the terraces of private bungalow to espy the soothing vastness of the mountains and valleys, unwind at the pool or relax at the sauna. At dusk, the hotel chef warmly invites you to an exemplary pisco sour and cooking demonstration. Delight in the outstanding gastronomic affair by sampling the delicacy and recall the well-spent day with a celebratory toast.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3.21km (2 miles), Elevation gain: 152m (500ft)
Level 2, Approx. 5km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 183m (600ft)
Level 3, Approx. 7km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 457m (1500ft)

Embark on a quick shuttle to the all-astir streets of Ollantaytambo, nestling on the northern edge of Sacred Valley and a home to the impressive & existing instance of Inca city planning. Meet the native experts who carry a deep knowledge of religiously significant ruins at Ollantaytambo. Ascend the 200 steps to Temple Hill and Temple of Sun which overlooks the quaint town. As you reach the top, absorb the enormity of the stoned-site and observe the ruins of ancient temples and fountains. The locals will call your attention to the inscribed Inca face on the cliff above the valley. Descend the town while taking in the view of majestic peaks surrounding this archeological destination.

Begin a stroll along the narrow cobblestone paths of Ollantaytambo, a small old town known for its slender canals and natives in jazzy outfits. As we leave the city, we take a road that meanders beside the Patacancha River, where we can hear the river flowing and see the terraced slope as we approach our private picnic location where we taste food that has just come off the market.

After, board a shuttle to head towards the Huilloc, a small Quechua weaving community, located offbeat. Immerse into the authenticity of Andean village life and the culture in the far-flung mountains. (Please be aware we will provide goods to the neighbourhood on behalf of each visitor, and as a sign of respect, we will permit the neighbourhood to distribute the materials following our visit.) Intensify your experience by learning some local terms from the colorfully dressed humans.

Stop by Pablo Seminario's ceramics workshop before arriving back at the lodge. Admired globally for its blend of pre-Inca and contemporary styles, Seminario's unique work has its place in the worldwide museums. Shop for exceptional murals, dinnerware and sculptures made from ceramics, some of which are decorated with silver. If you seek a leisurely interval, relax at the soothing amenities like spa or simply kick back watching the beautiful flora at the lodge. Tonight’s dinner will be served at your convenience, a ‘New Andean’ meal which is a peculiar fusion of Andean, Coastal Peruvian and international dishes.

Level 4, Approx. 12km (7 miles),  Elevation gain: 640m (2100ft), Elevation loss: 336m (1100ft)

Today we hike through the spectacular trail to take in the photogenic view of Machu Picchu, a dream-come-true experience. Wake up early to take the train to the trailhead at Kilometer 104 or 106 (subject to the weather.) Begin at the mountains which connects the renowned Inca Trail. You’ll climb through the forest with bountiful orchids and arrive at Huiñay Huayna, a terraced complex, formerly a venue of religious rituals, built on a slope with a view of the Urubamba River.

Arrive at the Intipunku also known as ‘Gate of the Sun’ in Quechua Machu Picchu's authentic entrance and get enthralled by the fascination that lies below. Observe Machu Picchu against a backdrop of shadows, light, and fog as you stare down onto the fortress. The mysterious site, which was rediscovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, is home to several religious temples and provides a forum for considering the various hypotheses as to why the great monarch Pachacutec constructed the wonder of Machu Picchu. Step on the Stone-paved Inca walkways from the Gate of the Sun, dating from the height of the empire and traveled by the couriers and tourists, to arrive at the fortress of Machu Picchu. The next day is reserved for exploring the ruins and its intriguing history. Your shuttle bus awaits to take you to the town of Aguas Calientes. If in case you couldn’t grab the Inca trail permit or if in favor for an easier hike, you are free to take an alternative route from the town of Aguas Calientes.

Take a short stroll to the small yet bustling town residing at the base of Machu Picchu and shop for artisan souvenirs before you step your feet into your hotel. A calming oasis on the town’s border, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, is a carbon neutral and environmentally friendly home tucked on a lush hillside above the raging Urubamba River. Satisfy your taste buds tonight at your own leisure with a dining affair at the hotel boasting local flavours and overlooking sweeping vistas.

Today, after we savor an early morning breakfast, set out on a guided walk around the property to get clued up about the regional orchids, varied avifauna, and tea plantations. Find pleasure in laying down for extra sleep or dip in the lavish pool or simply wind down for a morning spa treatment. If shopping is on your mind, your accommodation is just a few strolls away from the artisan market where you can browse souvenirs.

The history treasure of Machu Picchu awaits us as we traverse the twisting route by a shuttle bus. Relish an appetizing meal at Tinkuy restaurant located near the entryway to the most iconic attraction of our Peruvian vacation. Later, join the local guide to walk around the ancient archeological site of Macho Picchu. As we walk through the remnants, seize the opportunity to learn the mysterious history of this esteemed site. As you saunter through the ruins, soak in the complex architecture, and spectate the eye-pleasing vistas, the local guide discusses the intricate masonry of the temples and other structures, the amazing history of Machu Picchu's discovery, and the astrological patterns made by the sun-worshiping Inca.

Get engrossed by captivating tales of the ancient site and the jaw-dropping marvels of the Inca empire standing amidst the tropical mountain forests. The site established on a steep ridge is a remarkable religious centre and highlights irrigation canals and agriculture terraces. After you depart from the enrapturing ruins, shuttle your way back to your retreat.

Embark on an early morning train ride for the concluding scenic passage through the enchanting Sacred Valley, meeting a mind-bending 18,600 Mount Veronica on your way. The highest mount in the Urubamba Mountain range is snow-capped for almost the whole year. We take a shuttle from Ollantaytambo to Cusco to explore the delightful blend of old and new at Cusco.

Start a guided walk through the traditional city centre, and absorb the bygone and current fascinations of the alluring San Blas neighborhood and several iconic sites. Cusco (or Cuzco), which served as the pre-Columbian Inca Empire's capital, was transformed by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Today it’s a unique fusion of past and present. In the town, Inca and colonial buildings coexist, and the majority of people speak Quechua, Spanish, and occasionally English.

Enjoy charismatic traditional delicacies after which we stroll through the narrow routes offering the views of long-standing inca walls and fix on eyes on the two significant landmarks. The main cathedral, an imposing structure decorated with works of art fusing Spanish and Inca elements, and Coricancha, a colonial church constructed over the remnants of an Inca temple. The masterpieces of stone constructions, the Aqllahuasi, the Sunturcancha, the Kusicancha and several other specimens are indeed the specimens of incredible properties in Cusco.

Plaza de Armas, the town’s central square, will stop you in your tracks as you observe the bustling life engaged in the activities the centre features. The San Blas neighbourhood invites you to enjoy your time in bohemian and artistic cafés and stores. To dig deeper into the pre-Inca societies, visit the Inca Museum which boasts a unique collection of artefacts. Feel free this afternoon to explore deeper into the local stores close to our hotel. Or you can head directly to the hotel to unwind or have a massage before you gather to nosh at a favorite restaurant.

You'll stay at a restored 17th century palace where suites are set around cloistered courtyards. Unwind in Cusco’s first outdoor heated swimming pool, whisk away into the library with a book or indulge in a spa treatment (at own expense).

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 5km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)
Level 3, Approx. 8km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)
Level 4, Approx. 10km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)

Enjoy breakfast before a quick shuttle leading to the remnants of Tambomachay, consisting of aqueducts, fountains and terraces, where we begin our hike. This rocky site at the outskirts of Cusco is said to have functioned as an Inca spa, ceremonial venue and a military outpost. Climb through a Quechua Village after which you’ll descend the remaining route taking in some breathtaking vistas of Cusco Valley. Wherever your vision reaches, the region features lush greenery and mighty mountains.

Take a halt to satisfy your appetite with a delicious lunch before proceeding towards Sacsayhuamán. One of the most amazing structures in all of South America, this remarkable stronghold of enormous stone blocks overlooking Cusco served both military and religious reasons. The citadel is said to be constructed in 15th century and features buildings, towers, shrines, warehouses, roads and aqueducts. The main wall of this centre is build using jumbo stones and with the other ruins it is said to be one of the finest work of Incas. The view of Cusco from Sacsayhuaman is breathtaking.

Turn towards Cusco to spend the rest of the afternoon making the most of your leisure by indulging into spa treatments (at own expense) or explore more handicrafts at the local stores or re-visit the energetic atmosphere of Plaza de Armas. This evening, gather together for a luscious dinner at the hotel’s dining room and raise a toast to Peruvian adventures we pursued through the week.

Take for one last time towards the local market after the breakfast, featuring exotic fruit drinks and an interesting variety of local items. Alternatively, take it easy and laze by the terrace, unwind at the pool or in the spa to witness the warm hospitality at your own leisure. Our expenditure concludes today as you check out and wave a goodbye to the lovely town of Cusco.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.