Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Cusco: Acclimatize to the Heart of the Inca Empire

   • Welcome to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire! Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a warm cup of coca tea to help you adjust to the altitude. 
   • Spend your afternoon relaxing or exploring the charming streets of this UNESCO World Heritage city, where colonial architecture blends seamlessly with Inca ruins. 
   • Stroll through Plaza de Armas, admire the vibrant local culture, and savor your first taste of Peruvian cuisine. 
   • Your comfortable hotel awaits, offering the perfect retreat to prepare for the adventures ahead. 

   Meals included: -/-/-

   Accommodation: Cusco

2. Day 2: Cusco City Tour: Unveiling Inca Grandeur and Colonial Splendor

   • Dive into Cusco’s rich history with a guided tour of its most iconic sites. 
   • Begin at the majestic Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial art, followed by the awe-inspiring Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), where Inca stonework meets Spanish architecture. 
   • Next, explore the colossal Sacsayhuaman fortress, a testament to Inca engineering with its massive stone walls. 
   • Continue to Qenqo, Puca Pucará, and Tambomachay, each site revealing unique aspects of Inca rituals and daily life. This immersive journey through time will leave you captivated by Cusco’s enduring legacy.

   Meals included: B/-/-

   Accommodation: Cusco

3. Day 3: Humantay Lagoon: A Turquoise Gem Nestled in the Andes

   • Embark on an unforgettable trek to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, a dazzling turquoise lake set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. 
   • The hike begins in Soraypampa, passing through breathtaking landscapes filled with native flora and fauna. 
   • As you ascend to 4,200 meters, the lagoon’s serene beauty will reward your efforts. 
   • Take in the tranquility and snap photos of this natural wonder before enjoying a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. This day of adventure and awe-inspiring views is a highlight for nature lovers.

   ­Meals included: B/L/-

   Accommodation: Cusco

4. Day 4: Sacred Valley: Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo’s Inca Fortress

   • Journey through the Sacred Valley, starting at the vibrant Pisac Market, where artisans showcase colorful textiles and handmade crafts. 
   • After shopping for souvenirs, savor a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba. 
   • Then, visit the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a strategic Inca site with terraces and temples carved into the mountainside. 
   • This living Inca town offers a glimpse into ancient urban planning. 
   • End your day in the serene Sacred Valley, surrounded by towering peaks and lush landscapes.

   Meals included: B/L/-

   Accommodation: Sacred Valley

5. Day 5: Maras Salt Mines and Moray’s Agricultural Terraces

   • Discover the ingenuity of the Incas at Moray’s circular terraces, an ancient agricultural laboratory designed to test crops at varying altitudes. 
   • Next, visit the surreal Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pans cascade down the mountainside, creating a shimmering white mosaic. 
   • Learn how locals harvest this precious mineral using techniques passed down for centuries. 
   • The contrast between these two sites highlights the Inca’s deep connection to nature and resourcefulness.

   Meals included: B/-/-

   Accommodation: Sacred Valley

6. Day 6: Machu Picchu: A Sunrise Over the Lost City of the Incas

   • Rise early for a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus ascent to Machu Picchu. 
   • As the mist clears, witness the awe-inspiring citadel emerge, perched high above the Urubamba River. 
   • Your guide will unveil the mysteries of this UNESCO Wonder, from the Temple of the Sun to the Intihuatana stone. 
   • Wander through terraces and temples, soaking in the spiritual energy of this sacred site. Return to Cusco by evening, filled with memories of this bucket-list experience.

   Meals included: B/-/-

   Accommodation: Cusco

7. Day 7: Rainbow Mountain – A Kaleidoscope of Colors at 5,000 Meters

   • Venture to Vinicunca, the famed Rainbow Mountain, where mineral-rich layers paint the slopes in vibrant hues. 
   • The challenging hike is rewarded with panoramic views of the Andes, including the towering Ausangate peak. 
   • Capture the surreal landscape and enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. 
   • This off-the-beaten-path adventure showcases Peru’s unparalleled natural beauty and is a must for photography enthusiasts.

   Meals included: B/L/-

   Accommodation: Cusco

8. Day 8: Farewell to Cusco – Departure with Unforgettable Memories

   • Enjoy a final breakfast in Cusco before your transfer to the airport. 
   • Reflect on your journey through Inca ruins, emerald lagoons, and rainbow-colored mountains as you bid farewell to Peru. 
   • With a heart full of memories and a camera full of stunning photos, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes.

   Meals included: B/-/-

   Accommodation: -