Overview
This adventure promises an immersive exploration of Peru’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. From the ancient city of Cusco and the mystique of Machu Picchu to the vibrant biodiversity of the Amazon, every moment is designed to captivate your senses and enrich your understanding of Inca history and natural wonders. Expert guides, seamless transfers, and carefully curated excursions ensure that your journey is both comfortable and inspiring.
Whether trekking through the Sacred Valley, hiking the iconic Inca Trail, or marveling at the vivid hues of Rainbow Mountain, each day unfolds new experiences that highlight the beauty and diversity of Peru. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural insight, outdoor adventure, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable expedition for travelers seeking both excitement and discovery.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Cusco
- Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Day 3: Inca Trail Hike
- Day 4: Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco
- Day 5: Rainbow Mountain Hike & Red Valley
- Day 6: Flight to Puerto Maldonado Amazon
- Day 7: Amazon
- Day 8: Amazon
- Day 9: Amazon and Flight to Lima
- Day 10: Good Bye
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Cusco
Your first day in Cusco begins the moment you land. A private transfer will be waiting to whisk you from the airport directly to your hotel in comfort and style.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure—wander the cobblestone streets, visit the Plaza de Armas, or simply relax and acclimatize to the altitude.
At 6:00 pm, join us at our headquarters for an essential briefing on the Inca Trail. Meet your guide, complete your check-in, and get all the tips you need for the days ahead.
Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas
Bright and early at 8:00 am, your guide will pick you up to explore the legendary Sacred Valley. En route, pause at “El Mirador” for panoramic views of fertile terraces carved by the Incas centuries ago.
Continue to the archaeological site of Pisac, where you’ll learn about Inca engineering as you wander among stone temples and irrigation channels. Then descend to Pisac town’s colorful artisan market for a chance to shop handmade crafts and local produce.
After a traditional Andean lunch, journey along the Urubamba River to Ollantaytambo. Here, marvel at the massive river-cliff terraces and the fortress that once guarded the valley. By late afternoon, return to Cusco and settle in at your hotel.
Day 3: Short Inca Trail Trek
At dawn, transfer to Ollantaytambo station for the 6:10 am train to kilometer 104. From there, begin your trek along the Urubamba River’s edge, with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and verdant farmland.
Reach the enchanting site of Wiñay Wayna, nestled at 8,500 ft. Explore its stone terraces, water channels, and temples while your guide shares stories of Inca life against a backdrop of towering jungle cliffs.
Enjoy a hot, homemade lunch at the nearby campsite before continuing to the Sun Gate. Stand in awe as Machu Picchu’s citadel unfolds beneath you—your first glimpse of the “Lost City.”
Descend into Machu Picchu town by bus, check into your hotel, then gather for an included dinner at Indio Feliz, renowned for its authentic cuisine. Turn in early to recharge for tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 4: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
Rise before sunrise to catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a two-hour private tour of the ruins led by your English-speaking guide, learning the mystery and majesty of this ancient citadel.
Afterward, explore on your own or, if you have a Huayna Picchu ticket, tackle the mountain hike (approx. 1.5 hrs round-trip). Later, take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will escort you to your hotel in Cusco.
In the evening, your guide will confirm the next day’s schedule and answer any questions you have about the journey ahead.
Day 5: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley
Pickup between 4:00–4:30 am for the drive to Phulawasipata trailhead (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Savor a hearty breakfast—coffee, hot chocolate, fresh bread, fruit, and eggs—prepared by your personal chef.
Begin the 2–3-hour uphill hike to Rainbow Mountain. As you ascend, your guide will point out geological formations and local wildlife, including grazing llamas and alpacas.
At the summit, soak in 360° vistas of colorful strata and the glacial peak of Ausangate (6,384 m / 20,944 ft). Then descend via a scenic route through the Red Valley, where you’ll conclude with a lakeside lunch before returning to Cusco by early evening.
Day 6: Flight to Puerto Maldonado & Jungle Transfer
Transfer to Cusco airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado (flight not included). Upon arrival, meet your naturalist guide and board a dugout canoe for a scenic ride up the Tambopata River.
Enjoy a boxed lunch on the riverbank, then settle into the lodge with a refreshing welcome drink. Late afternoon, embark on a guided walk in the terra firme forest—home to Brazil-nut, Dipteryx giants, tamarins, capuchins, and vibrant birdlife.
After dinner, experience a night safari by torchlight to spot nocturnal creatures whose eyes gleam back in your flashlight’s beam.
Day 7: Lake & Forest Exploration
Early breakfast, then board a motorized canoe to the Condenado lake system. Paddle and hike through pristine waterways in search of giant otters, herons, toucans, and the hoatzin.
Return to the lodge for lunch, then choose to relax by the Gallucunca stream or explore nearby trails. At dusk, set out again by canoe to search for caiman and other night dwellers along the riverbank.
Day 8: Hidden Lake Trek
After breakfast, journey by boat and foot to a secluded jungle lake. Cross streams and swamps under towering Lupuna trees as your guide explains rainforest ecology and animal behavior.
At the hidden lake, watch for elusive black caiman and playful giant otters. Return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of leisure—swim, birdwatch, or simply soak in the jungle sounds.
Day 9: Morning Wildlife & Flight to Lima
If your flight schedule allows, enjoy a final dawn chorus of howler monkeys and parrots before transferring to Puerto Maldonado airport for your onward flight (we recommend booking around noon).
Upon arrival in Lima, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore Peru’s vibrant capital at your own pace.
Day 10: Farewell
This marks the end of your tour. You may arrange a hotel pickup to the airport at your preferred time—our team will ensure you depart with fond memories of Cusco and the Amazon.
Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Peru soon!
Inclusions
Included
- Professional Guides: All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional, and will ensure you are safe and happy.
- Transportation: All your transportation is included on this tour. We will pick you up from your hotel on the first morning and ensure you are escorted until you are dropped off at your hotel the final evening.
- Hotels: This tour includes each of the hotels listed in Lima, Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Extra nights can easily be added before and after your tour, if needed. Let our team know if you are interested in an extension and we will give you a quote. Rooms are based on double occupancy. There is a surcharge for a single room. Upgraded hotels are always possible. In comparison, we can also book your tour without any hotels, if you prefer to book them on your own.
Not Included
- Travel Insurance: This is not required, but always recommended. For those of you who live at sea-level, landing in Cusco will take an adjustment period. Most people need one or two days to adjust. In case you have a hard time adjusting to the altitude, it is suggested to have protection for missed tours.
- Gratuities: Tipping is always appreciated and should be based completely on your satisfaction. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels.
- Huayna Picchu: Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45 minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep, if you are scared of heights. This is done after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance, due to popularity. Please understand that weather is out of our control.
- Flights: Flying to Cusco can be tricky. Delays occur often and it is not uncommon for flights to be cancelled. Please be sure to arrive in the city at least two days before your trek start date. LAN Peru is the most reliable of the airlines. Avianca and Peruvian Airlines are acceptable companies, as well. You will not return from your trek until around 8 p.m. on the last day, so be sure your flight is not until the next day, when leaving Cusco.
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport is the gateway to an ancient city where every corner evokes the grandeur of the Inca Empire. Cusco, known as the capital of the ancient empire, dazzles with its fusion of Andean traditions and colonial remnants. Its main tourist attraction, Machu Picchu, invites you to lose yourself in a landscape of mysterious ruins and ancestral legends.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Arriving in Puerto Maldonado
The Padre Aldamiz Interregional Airport is the main entry point for travelers heading to this charming gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. Puerto Maldonado is renowned for its rich biodiversity and its proximity to natural wonders like the Tambopata National Reserve, making it the ideal destination for those wishing to explore the jungle and immerse themselves in Amazonian culture.
Weather in Puerto Maldonado
The climate in Puerto Maldonado is typically tropical and humid, with high temperatures year-round. Due to its location in the Amazon rainforest, the region experiences high humidity and abundant rainfall. The rainy season lasts approximately from November to May, during which heavy and frequent rains are common. In the relatively drier season, from June to October, rainfall decreases slightly, although the environment remains warm and humid. Daytime temperatures usually range between 28°C and 33°C, while nighttime temperatures stay warm, rarely dropping below 23°C.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Acclimate Gradually: Take it easy on your first day to adjust to the high altitude and minimize discomfort.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and consider coca tea to help with altitude adaptation.
- Layer Your Clothing: Temperatures can fluctuate—pack lightweight base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell.
- Carry Local Currency: Have small bills of Peruvian soles on hand for markets, tips, and remote areas without ATMs.
- Use Reusable Water Bottles: Help reduce plastic waste and refill at purified water stations whenever possible.
- Learn Basic Quechua: Simple greetings like “hola” and “gracias” go a long way in connecting with local communities.
- Protect Electronics: Bring waterproof pouches or dry bags to shield phones and cameras from rain and river spray.
- Support Local Artisans: Purchase authentic handicrafts at community markets to contribute directly to local economies.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance—never feed or disturb them in their natural habitat.
- Bring Biodegradable Toiletries: Choose eco-friendly soap and shampoo to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
- Pack Insect Repellent & Sunscreen: Protect yourself from mosquitoes in the Amazon and UV rays at high altitudes.
- Have Digital Copies: Keep scanned copies of your passport and travel documents accessible in case of emergencies.
- Carry a Power Bank: Ensure you can recharge devices during long days of trekking and river excursions.
- Stay Flexible: Weather or river conditions may require adjustments—embrace spontaneity for a smoother experience.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 10-day adventure along Cusco and Puerto Maldonado for USD 2360 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tourist package requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
Your Privacy is Our Priority
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we protect your personal information. We do not share, sell, or disclose your data to third parties under any circumstances.
