Itinerary

1. Day 1: Cusco – Urubamba – Pumahuanca – Cuyoc

   • Begin the journey with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco.

   • Stop in the Sacred Valley for breakfast at a local restaurant, with time to use restrooms and purchase snacks or water.

   • Travel by bus to the entrance of the Pumahuanca Valley, known for its white corn crops and traditional chicha beer.

   • Meet the horses and horsemen who will carry the gear during the trek.

   • Start the hike through the scenic valley, surrounded by native queñua trees and beautiful mountain views.

   • Arrive at the archaeological site of Inca-Kancha after about 3 to 4 hours of hiking and explore the ruins.

   • Enjoy a traditional Andean lunch before continuing through the woods to the Paccha community.

   • Pass by waterfalls and herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep as you ascend.

   • Reach the Cuyoc campsite at 4,010 meters above sea level.

   • Settle in, enjoy a warm dinner, and rest for the night.

2. Day 2: Cuyoc – Pumahuanca Pass – Cuncani

   • Start the morning with coca tea and a hearty breakfast.

   • Begin the challenging five-hour ascent toward the Pumahuanca Pass at 4,780 meters.

   • Pass through lush woods, steep stone steps, and narrow curves with panoramic views of the peaks of Chicón, San Juan, and Verónica.

   • Pause to honor the mountain gods at apachetas with a coca leaf offering.

   • Enjoy breathtaking views of Moray, Maras, and the salt mines from the top of the pass.

   • Begin a one-hour descent along a stone path with stunning vistas on both sides.

   • Stop near high-altitude lakes for lunch and a short rest.

   • Continue descending for two more hours, passing farmlands and locals in traditional colorful attire.

   • Arrive in the community of Cuncani at 3,900 meters, known for its exquisite handwoven textiles.

   • Have a traditional dinner and camp surrounded by the serene beauty of the Lares Valley.

3. Day 3: Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

   • Enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast in the village of Cuncani.

   • Learn about local farming and weaving traditions and admire the colorful textiles.

   • Begin a four-hour downhill hike through picturesque landscapes toward Lares.

   • Arrive in Lares and relax in the medicinal hot springs to soothe your muscles.

   • Savor a delicious lunch before boarding the bus for a three-hour ride to Ollantaytambo.

   • Board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying spectacular views along the route.

   • Check into your accommodation in Aguas Calientes and rest for the night in preparation for Machu Picchu.

4. Day 4: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

   • Start early and take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

   • Enter the legendary citadel and explore its plazas, temples, storage facilities, and terraces.

   • Learn about the history and architectural brilliance of the Incas, whose structures have withstood centuries of earthquakes and harsh weather.

   • Take time to capture photographs and absorb the mystical beauty of this wonder.

   • Descend to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time for lunch, souvenir shopping, or a visit to the hot springs (optional, not included).

   • Board the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer by bus to Cusco, concluding an unforgettable journey.