The Sacred Valley of Peru, together with Lares Valley and Machu Picchu, form a complete experience which combines deep cultural experiences with challenging mountain trekking and famous historical site visits. The journey takes you through ancient Inca trails and colorful market areas, and distant Andean settlements that most people never get to see. The lodges you stay at provide a direct connection to both the natural environment and local community members. During your journey, you will discover how people cultivate their crops while observing their social gatherings and admire the stunning beauty of mountainous regions before reaching the final destination at Machu Picchu. The itinerary suits travelers who want physical activity because it delivers an equal combination of exploration and cultural learning with comfortable lodging throughout the Andean region.
Your guide is standing by to give the lowdown on the trek, and we want to hear your burning questions! The main event is set to kick off at 7:00 p.m. sharp, and it’s a 45-minute gig.
Trust us, you should arrive in Cusca at least a day or two beforehand to give your body time to acclimate to the high altitude and soak in the pre-trek briefing. Travel insurance isn’t just a good idea – it’s a non-negotiable requirement for all participants.
Your journey kicks off in the heart of the awe-inspiring Sacred Valley, where colonial buildings sit majestically on ancient Inca ruins. You discover nearby archaeological wonders before embarking on a scenic hike along the original paths forged by the Incas, winding your way through Urquillos. As you hike, breathtaking valley vistas and traditional Andean landscapes unfold before you, culminating in a serene day’s end at a mountain lodge within the Sacred, untouched landscape.
The day begins at the Pisaq market, where a kaleidoscope of local culture, handcrafted goods, and savory flavors awaits. You can choose to hike over rugged highland terrain or venture into rural communities, immersing yourself in the age-old practices of Andean farming. As the day winds down, you’ll explore the sprawling ruins of the Pisaq archaeological complex, a true marvel of ancient civilization, and return to your lodge, enveloped in the peace and serenity of the valley.
The farther you journey into the Andean wilderness, the more remote the scenery becomes as you enter the little-visited Lares Valley. Less than most travelers, you explore lesser-known archaeological treasures and secluded villages in the Andes. Unforgettable cultural experiences with residents and optional treks through stunning turquoise lakes and majestic mountain backdrops allow for an intensely personal connection with this hidden corner of the Andes, culminating in a peaceful stay at a community-managed lodge in Huacahuasi.
Step into the morning with a stroll through the quaint Huacahuasi village, getting a glimpse into the daily lives and traditional practices of the locals. Cultural activities could involve dropping by local families’ homes and participating in a hands-on Peruvian cooking class where you get to learn the secrets of authentic Peruvian cuisine. If you’re feeling bold, take on the demanding “Trail of the Thousand Lakes” full-day hike, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking alpine vistas that’ll leave you with lifelong memories.
The day starts with a delicious breakfast, after which the route leads through the beautiful Patacancha Valley, allowing for meaningful interactions with the local communities, as well as an education on native crops, including Andean medicinal varieties. Next, you get to choose between two incredible experiences – either hike to Pumamarka, a fascinating archaeological site that’s full of history, or participate in a traditional Andean ceremony that honors the majestic mountains that surround you. Come late afternoon, you’ll navigate through either scenic trails that wind through the landscape or take a leisurely drive to Ollantaytambo, a town that has been around for a seriously long time – it’s one of the oldest communities in all of South America.
For those who crave an early start, a hike above Ollantaytambo offers breathtaking panoramic views, whereas others might prefer to explore the stunning fortress and ceremonial center with a knowledgeable guide by their side. After that, you’ll take a ride on a scenic train through the majestic Sacred Valley, which sets the stage for your first unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, where the mystical citadel slowly emerges from a veil of mist and towering mountain peaks.
Your adventure reaches its thrilling conclusion with an in-depth exploration of the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu, where you’ll get to discover the incredibly famous landmarks like the Temple of de Sun, the Watchtower, and the sumptuous royal Inca mansions. With a generous amount of free time, you’ll have the opportunity to sit back, unwind, or hike the breathtaking Huayna Picchu, and walk away from this once-in-a-lifetime experience with a deep appreciation for one of the world’s most awe-inspiring archaeological marvels.
Yes. The briefing is mandatory for all participants. It takes place at 7:00 p.m., lasts approximately 45 minutes, and covers essential information about the trek, safety guidelines, and final questions.
You should arrive in Cusco at least 1–2 days before the program starts to allow time for altitude acclimatization and to attend the pre-trek briefing comfortably.
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants and is a non-negotiable requirement.
This itinerary combines moderate hikes with optional more challenging treks. It is not technical, but a good level of fitness and previous hiking experience are recommended.
Yes. Several days offer alternative cultural or community-based activities for travelers who prefer a gentler pace.
The program features mountain lodges and community-managed lodges in the Sacred Valley and Lares Valley, as well as partner hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
