Peru

Upon arrival in Cusco, the historic heart of the Incan Empire, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. During the drive, your guide will introduce you to the exciting experiences that await over the coming days.

As one of Peru’s most captivating destinations, Cusco is a city where ancient Incan history and Spanish colonial heritage blend seamlessly. Wander its charming cobblestone streets and admire the remarkable precision of Incan stonework that still forms the foundation of many colonial-era buildings. As the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas and the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco offers an unforgettable introduction to Peru’s rich history and culture. At an elevation of 11,150 feet (3,450 meters), you’ll have time to acclimate while exploring beautiful Baroque churches, ancient temples, lively plazas, and local shops.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a renowned local restaurant (Uchu Restaurant or similar) known for its exceptional Peruvian cuisine. It’s the perfect way to begin your Peruvian adventure while getting to know your travel companions. 

Included Activities

• Airport Transfers
• Welcome Dinner

This morning, discover the rich history and remarkable architecture of Cusco on a guided city tour featuring the region’s most significant Inca and colonial landmarks. Your first stop is the impressive ceremonial fortress of Sacsayhuamán, perched high above the city. Built with enormous precision-cut stone blocks, this extraordinary site is one of the greatest engineering achievements of the Inca civilization. It is believed that more than 10,000 workers spent nearly 50 years constructing this monumental complex, though its exact origins remain a mystery.

Continue to Qenqo, an important ceremonial site known for its underground passages, intricately carved stone channels, and a sacred stone altar believed to have been used for Inca rituals and mummification ceremonies. You’ll also visit Tambomachay, often referred to as the Temple of Water, and nearby Puca Pucará, an ancient military outpost and ceremonial site that once guarded the entrance to Cusco.

Returning to the city, you’ll explore Qoricancha (The Temple of the Sun), considered the most sacred temple of the Inca Empire and once home to more than 1,000 priests and attendants. Later, stroll through Cusco’s vibrant Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, surrounded by beautiful colonial arcades and historic churches. Your tour concludes with a visit to Cusco’s magnificent Cathedral, a stunning example of Spanish colonial Baroque architecture that houses nearly 400 colonial-era paintings, including many masterpieces from the renowned Cusco School of Art.

After a fascinating day exploring the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, you’ll return to your hotel with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Included Activities

• Private half-day guided tour of Cusco with an English-speaking local guide
• Admission to the Temple of Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)
• Admission to Cusco Cathedral
• Boleto Turístico General (BTG) tourist ticket, providing access to key archaeological sites and attractions throughout the Cusco region

During this journey, you’ll follow one of three unique experiences based on the travel option you selected before the trip. Choose to hike the legendary Inca Trail, trek the scenic Quarry Trail, or enjoy a more relaxed itinerary by train. No matter which route you choose, all travelers will come together to experience the unforgettable wonder of Machu Picchu.

Train Option

This morning, depart Cusco by private vehicle and journey into the breathtaking Sacred Valley, known to the Incas as Wilcamayo. This lush and fertile valley has sustained the people of the high Andes for centuries, with the Urubamba River winding through fields of corn and ancient agricultural terraces carved into the surrounding mountainsides.

Your first stop is the impressive Pisac Ruins, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Explore its remarkable stonework, ceremonial structures, and expansive agricultural terraces while learning about the ingenuity and daily life of the Inca civilization.

Next, visit the welcoming Amaru Community, where you’ll experience authentic Andean culture and gain insight into local traditions and everyday life. If your visit coincides with market day, you’ll have the opportunity to browse colorful artisan stalls featuring handwoven textiles, warm alpaca ponchos, and handcrafted jewelry while perhaps even practicing a few words of Quechua, the traditional language of the Andes. Enjoy a home-style lunch prepared by the local community before continuing to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Inca Trail Option

Travel by minivan to the 82-kilometer marker, where you’ll meet your trekking guide, cook, and team of porters before beginning your unforgettable journey along the legendary Inca Trail. Your first day features an uphill trek to your campsite at 3,100 meters (10,170 feet), offering a rewarding introduction to one of the world’s most iconic hikes.

Along the way, you’ll pass the fascinating Inca archaeological sites of Ollantaytambo, Huillca Raccay, and Llactapata, while enjoying spectacular views of the snow-capped Veronica Peak and the surrounding Andes. After a day of hiking, settle into camp and enjoy a hearty, freshly prepared meal cooked by your trekking chef as you relax beneath the Andean sky. 

Quarry Trail Option

Begin the day with an early morning drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial site where the Incas once worshipped the moon. From there, continue to the community near Qory Song’o (Golden Heart) Hill, where you’ll begin your ascent to breathtaking panoramic views of the Soqma, Perolniyoc, Pachar, and Huarocondo Valleys.

Along the way, you’ll have the rare opportunity to visit protected Inca sacred tombs, where portions of the original wood and leather structures remain remarkably preserved—an extraordinary sight that few travelers ever experience. Continue to the scenic Perolniyoc Cascade for a break to enjoy snacks, take photos, and admire the beautiful waterfall before arriving at your campsite at 3,700 meters (12,140 feet) around lunchtime.

In the afternoon, explore the Q’orimarca Archaeological Site, a historic Inca checkpoint that once played an important role in the region’s transportation and defense network.

Today’s Quarry Trail trek covers approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) over 6.5 hours, with an elevation gain of 480 meters (1,575 feet).

Special Information

Inca Trail

Today’s trek begins at an elevation of 2,688 meters (8,819 feet) and covers approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) over 8 hours. Along the way, you’ll gain 412 meters (1,352 feet) in elevation and descend 68 meters (223 feet), offering a rewarding introduction to the legendary Inca Trail while taking in spectacular Andean scenery.

Quarry Trail

Today’s hike begins at an elevation of 3,220 meters (10,564 feet) and covers approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) over 6.5 hours. You’ll gain 480 meters (1,575 feet) in elevation with no significant descent throughout the day’s trek. Lunch and dinner are included for guests participating in either trekking option.

About the Trekking Options

Both the Inca Trail and the Quarry Trail are designed for travelers with a moderate level of fitness and offer unforgettable ways to experience the Andes.

The Inca Trail is a 45-kilometer (28-mile) trek featuring a mix of uphill and downhill hiking across four days. Daily hikes typically average around seven hours, with breaks for snacks and lunch along the way. Trekkers spend three nights camping in twin-share tents with self-inflating sleeping mats. Your team of experienced porters will transport the camping equipment, set up camp each day, and your trekking chef will prepare hearty meals throughout the journey.

The Quarry Trail is a 31-kilometer (19-mile) adventure that reaches a maximum elevation of 4,450 meters (14,600 feet). Horses carry your gear and camping equipment, allowing you to enjoy the trek with a lighter pack. The first two nights are spent camping, while the final night is in a simple hotel before continuing to Machu Picchu. Twin-share tents, self-inflating sleeping mats, camp setup, and freshly prepared meals are all provided, allowing you to focus on the incredible scenery and experience.

Please Note: Dinner is included for guests participating in the trekking options only.

Included Activities

• Full-day private guided excursion through the Sacred Valley, including visits to the Pisac Ruins and the traditional Amaru Community (Train Option Only)
• Interactive weaving workshop and authentic community lunch in Amaru (Train Option Only)
• Choice of the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail experience with a private English-speaking local trekking guide
• Hiking Snacks, Lunch & Dinner (Trekking Options Only)

Train Option

Today you’ll enjoy a private guided excursion through the breathtaking Sacred Valley, beginning with a visit to the remarkable Maras Salt Ponds. Fed by natural underground salt springs, thousands of terraced salt pools have been carved into the mountainside and have been harvested since Inca times. The striking white terraces cascading down the hillside create one of the region’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes.

Next, continue to Moray, one of the Inca Empire’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Its enormous circular terraces, built into natural limestone depressions, are believed to have served as an agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with growing crops at different elevations and microclimates. While some also attribute cosmological significance to the site, its remarkable engineering continues to amaze visitors today.

Following your morning exploration, enjoy lunch at UNU Restaurant, a unique culinary destination created by ARTISANO in partnership with the Lucana-Morales family. Set beside the historic church of Tiobamba in a peaceful countryside location, UNU showcases refined Peruvian and Cusco-inspired cuisine crafted from fresh local ingredients. Surrounded by spectacular Andean scenery, it’s the perfect place to relax and savor an authentic taste of Peru. 

Inca Trail Option

Today is the most challenging, and one of the most rewarding days of your Inca Trail adventure. Begin a steady five-hour ascent to the highest point of the trail, Warmiwanusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass, at an elevation of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Reaching the summit is a true accomplishment and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andean valleys and rugged mountain peaks. After taking in the spectacular scenery, descend to your campsite in the beautiful Pacaymayo Valley, where you’ll spend the evening at an elevation of 3,650 meters (11,975 feet). 

Quarry Trail Option

Today is the most challenging and arguably the most rewarding day of the Quarry Trail. Begin with a three-hour ascent to Puccaqasa Pass, reaching an elevation of approximately 4,370 meters (14,337 feet) and taking in sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains along the way.

After enjoying the spectacular scenery, continue on to lunch before beginning a two-hour climb to Kuychicassa, the highest point of the trek at 4,450 meters (14,600 feet). From there, descend to the sacred Inca site of Intipunku (Sun Gate), where sunlight shines through the ancient gateway during certain times of the year and stunning views of Nevado Veronica can be enjoyed year-round.

Your day concludes at a nearby campsite located at 3,600 meters (11,810 feet), where you can relax and take in the incredible accomplishment of the day’s trek.

Special information

Inca Trail

Your trekking time today will be approximately 8 hours or 12 km (7.5 miles), with an elevation gain of 1127m (4000 feet) and a descent of 627m (2000 feet).

Quarry Trail 

Your trekking time today will be approximately 7.5 hours or 14 km (8.7 miles), with an elevation gain of 750m (2460 feet) and a descent of 700m (2300 feet).

Please Note: Dinner is included for guests participating in the trekking options only.

Included Activities

• Full-day private guided excursion through the Sacred Valley, featuring Maras Salt Ponds and the remarkable circular terraces of Moray (Train Option Only)
• Admission to the Maras Salt Ponds (Train Option Only)
• Lunch at the acclaimed UNU Restaurant (Train Option Only)
• Choice of the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail experience with a private English-speaking local trekking guide

Train Option

Today, you’ll board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes, the charming mountain town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu. Widely considered one of Peru’s most scenic rail journeys, the route winds through the breathtaking Sacred Valley before following the banks of the Urubamba River as the landscape gradually transforms from the high Andes into lush cloud forest. Sit back, relax, and take in the spectacular scenery during the approximately 1-hour and 45-minute journey before arriving in Aguas Calientes, your gateway to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders.

Inca Trail Option

Begin the day with a scenic climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass, reaching an elevation of 3,980 meters (13,058 feet). Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabambabefore descending for two to three hours to the fascinating Inca ruins of Sayacmarca.

Continue over the trail’s third mountain pass to the impressive archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca, meaning “Town Above the Clouds,” perched at 3,850 meters (12,631 feet). From there, begin a two-hour descent down the original Inca stone steps to your final campsite, located beside the remarkable Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, where you’ll spend your last evening on the legendary Inca Trail.

Quarry Trail Option

Today’s trek is a rewarding downhill journey through the stunning Andean landscape. Your first stop is the Kachiqata Quarry, an unfinished Inca quarry where construction came to an abrupt end following the arrival of the Spanish. As you continue your descent, you’ll make your way to the charming village of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll have time to stroll its picturesque cobblestone streets and soak in the atmosphere of one of Peru’s best-preserved Inca towns.

Here you’ll reunite with the members of your group who chose the train option before boarding a short scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. This evening, relax in the comfort of your hotel and prepare for tomorrow’s unforgettable visit to one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures.

Special information

Inca Trail

Your trekking time today will be approximately 10 hours or 15 km (9.3 miles), with an elevation gain of 400m (1312 feet) and a descent of 1350m (4429).

Quarry Trail

Your trekking time today will be approximately 4.5 hours or 10 km (6.2 miles), with an elevation gain of 0m and a descent of 950m (3117 feet).

Please Note: Included meals vary by option. Train participants have breakfast only, Inca Trail participants receive lunch and dinner, while Quarry Trail participants receive lunch.

Included Activities

• Private transfer from your hotel to Ollantaytambo Train Station with an English-speaking tour guide
• Scenic journey aboard the Inca Rail Voyager tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
• Choice of the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail experience with a private English-speaking local trekking guide

Train and Quarry Option

After breakfast, board the tourist train for one of Peru’s most spectacular rail journeys to Aguas Calientes, the charming mountain town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu. As the train departs the Sacred Valley, you’ll follow the winding Urubamba River through breathtaking Andean scenery before gradually descending into the lush cloud forest. The approximately 1-hour and 45-minute journey is considered one of the most scenic train rides in South America.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a shuttle bus for the short but scenic ride up the steep, winding road to the legendary Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Perched high in the Andes and surrounded by verdant cloud forest, this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site remained hidden from the outside world until its rediscovery in 1911. Your first glimpse of the ancient citadel emerging from the mist is a moment you’ll never forget.

Begin your visit at the upper terraces, where you’ll have the opportunity to capture the iconic panoramic photos before embarking on a guided tour of this remarkable archaeological wonder. As you explore its temples, terraces, and more than 200 ancient structures, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the ingenuity and history of the Inca civilization while imagining what life was like at the height of the empire.

After your guided tour, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes and enjoy some free time to browse the town before boarding the tourist train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private vehicle will transfer you back to Cusco, arriving this evening after an unforgettable day exploring one of the world’s greatest wonders.

Inca Trail Option

Today marks the final and most spectacular stage of your Inca Trail adventure as you make your way to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu. Your day begins before sunrise with an early breakfast at 4:00 a.m.before saying farewell to your dedicated team of porters as they begin their journey back down the mountain.

Once the final checkpoint opens at 5:00 a.m., you’ll set out on the last 2.5-hour trek to Intipunku (the Sun Gate). Weather permitting, you’ll be rewarded with your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu as the ancient citadel comes into view from above—a truly unforgettable moment and the perfect culmination of your Inca Trail experience. Entering the Lost City of the Incas through the Sun Gate is an experience few travelers ever forget.

Special information

Quarry Trail and Train Option

Guests traveling by train or hiking the Quarry Trail will depart Aguas Calientes by shuttle bus at 6:00 a.m., with an estimated arrival at Machu Picchu between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. As sunrise at Machu Picchu typically occurs around 5:30 a.m., it is not possible to arrive in time to witness the sunrise.

For safety reasons, visits to Wayna Picchu are not offered or arranged as part of this itinerary.

Inca Trail Option

Today’s final trek covers approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) over 4 hours, with an elevation gain of 81 meters (266 feet) and a descent of 331 meters (1,086 feet).

Please Note: For safety reasons, the final checkpoint opens at 5:00 a.m. for all trekkers. Inca Trail hikers typically arrive at Intipunku (the Sun Gate) around 7:30 a.m., where (weather permitting)they’ll enjoy their unforgettable first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. 

Additional Notes:

Inca Rail trains do not have luggage racks. Each guest may bring one piece of hand luggage (such as a backpack, handbag, or briefcase) weighing up to 8 kg (17 lbs), with maximum dimensions of 118 linear cm (46 inches)(height + length + width). We recommend packing a small overnight bag for your time in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.

To help preserve this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site, all visitors to Machu Picchu are required to follow a designated one-way route through the archaeological complex. Once your guided tour begins, re-entry is not permitted, and guests must exit the site upon completion of the tour. Independent exploration outside the assigned route is not allowed.

Included Activities

• Round-trip shuttle bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
• Private guided tour of the Machu Picchu Archaeological Sanctuary with an English-speaking local guide
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Scenic journey aboard the PeruRail Voyager train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Private transfer from Ollantaytambo Train Station to your hotel in Cusco with an English-speaking tour guide
• Choice of the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail experience with a private English-speaking local trekking guide

Day at Leisure

At the appropriate time, transfer to the Wanchaq Train Station to board the luxurious PeruRail Titicaca Train for your scenic journey to Puno. This unforgettable rail experience lasts approximately 10.5 hours and is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world.

Upon arrival at the station, you’ll be welcomed by local musicians, setting the tone for the incredible experience ahead. Once on board, relax in beautifully restored dining cars inspired by the elegant Pullman carriages of the 1920s. Throughout the journey, enjoy gourmet cuisine, indulgent afternoon tea, and attentive, personalized service.

Be sure to spend time in the open-air observation car, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of the Peruvian Andes, picturesque villages, and sweeping high-altitude landscapes—a photographer’s dream. The PeruRail Titicaca route has been recognized by numerous travel publications as one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys.

Upon arrival in Puno, you will be met at the train station and transferred to your hotel.

Please Note:

• You may bring a carry-on bag with you onboard. Your larger luggage will be securely stored in the train’s luggage car for the duration of the journey.

Included Activities:

• Private transfer from your hotel to the Wanchaq Train Station in Cusco with an English-speaking tour leader
• Journey aboard the PeruRail Titicaca Train from Cusco to Puno in shared service with fellow travelers, including gourmet lunch and afternoon tea
• Private transfer from the Puno train station to your hotel with an English-speaking tour leader

Today, set out on a full-day adventure across Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, and discover the rich traditions of the Andean people. Traveling by boat, you’ll visit two of the lake’s most fascinating islands – Uros and Taquile – where ancient customs and a way of life passed down through generations continue to thrive.

Your first stop is the Uros Floating Islands, home to a small indigenous community that has lived on handcrafted reed islands for centuries. Originally created as a refuge from rival tribes, these remarkable floating islands are constructed entirely from totora reeds and feature traditional reed homes and boats. During your visit, you’ll learn about the Uros people’s unique history, culture, and enduring traditions.

Next, continue by boat to Taquile Island (approximately one hour away), where around 2,200 residents maintain a deeply rooted Andean lifestyle. The island is renowned for its warm hospitality, pre-Columbian agricultural terraces, and exceptional handwoven textiles, recognized among the finest handicrafts in Peru and designated by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Stroll through the picturesque village, admire the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca, and enjoy free time for lunch before beginning your scenic return by boat to Puno in the afternoon.

Included Activities:

• Full-day excursion on Lake Titicaca visiting the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island, accompanied by an English-speaking local guide

At the appropriate time, depart Puno and transfer to the airport for your included flight to Lima. En route, enjoy a visit to the remarkable Sillustani Archaeological Site, located on the shores of Lake Umayo at nearly 13,123 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level.

Sillustani is best known for its impressive chullpas—ancient above-ground funerary towers built by the pre-Inca Collacivilization. Many of these remarkable stone structures appear to defy gravity, with wider tops than bases. As you explore the site with your guide, you’ll learn about the Colla people’s fascinating burial traditions while taking in panoramic views of the sacred waters of Lake Umayo. After your visit, continue to the airport for your flight to Lima.

Upon arrival in Lima, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima was built atop an earlier indigenous settlement and became the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru. Today, the city blends centuries of colonial history with a vibrant modern culture, and its beautifully preserved historic center has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This evening, we will gather for a memorable farewell dinner at a renowned local restaurant (La Huaca Pucllana Restaurant or similar). Enjoy a thoughtfully crafted menu showcasing the best of Peruvian cuisine, featuring the country’s exceptional seafood, fresh local ingredients, and the diverse flavors that have made Peru one of the world’s top culinary destinations.

Included Activities:

• Private transfer from your hotel to Juliaca Airport with an English-speaking tour leader, including a guided visit to Sillustani Archaeological Site en route
• Entrance fee to Sillustani Archaeological SiteIncluded domestic flight from Juliaca (Puno) to Lima
• Private transfer from Lima Airport to your hotel with an English-speaking tour leader
• Farewell dinner at La Huaca Pucllana Restaurant, including round-trip transfers

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your departing international flight. 

Safe travels, and thank you for allowing us to be part of your Peruvian adventure!