Salkantay, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Typical Itinerary

1. Day 1: Departure day

   Depart for overnight flights to Lima, then Cusco.

2. Day 2: Transfer to the Sacred Valley

   Upon arrival in Cusco, a transfer to the Sacred Valley is arranged, with optional stops depending on timing. These stops include Awanacancha, a "Living Museum" showcasing weaving art, Pisac village to explore its ruins and market, and finally, the Inca citadel with its well-preserved ruins, whose original purpose remains a mystery.

3. Day 3: Lamay Farm & Food Experience

   Today's adventure involves exploring the mountain community of Huama and participating in a community initiative, where locals share agricultural expertise and traditional farming methods. Afterwards, enjoy a hands-on experience preparing a traditional Peruvian lunch and gain insights into local culture, before being transferred back to the hotel in the afternoon.

4. Day 4: Hike Huilloq to Patacancha

   Today, get immersed in the traditional Andean lifestyle of Huilloq village, explore homes and discover the Quechua culture, with the opportunity to witness skilled weaving processes and learn about the symbolism in their creations. Following this, a hike led by locals reaches 3,810 metres elevation, as you pass through crop fields, encounter llamas and alpacas, and enjoy a scenic picnic before returning to the village and transferring back to your accommodation.

5. Day 5: Cloud Forest Hike

   Today's journey towards Limatambo involves passing through the Tika Tika Pass, offering breathtaking views of Mount Salkantay and Humantay. Upon reaching the trailhead beyond Misquiyaco village, we embark on a trek through one of Peru's newest private conservation areas, established in 2021, ascending through a remarkable Meso-Andean Relict Forest, experiencing changes in the ecosystem as we progress to the high grasslands until reaching our campsite.

   Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 655 m

6. Day 6: Tambomachay and Cruzjasa Pass

   Start the day hiking uphill towards Tambomachay Pass at 4,367 metres, we continue to Uspaccasa before reaching Cruzjasa Pass at 4,683 metres, offering breathtaking views of the Palcay and Salkantay mountains' south faces and the Pampacahuana Valley, concluding the day's journey at Mirador de Pampacahuana campsite.

   Walking distance: 16 km | Ascent: 400 m | Descent: 640 m

7. Day 7: Pampacahuana Valley

   Embarking on our hike through the picturesque Pampacahuana Valley, we encounter small farm dwellings before exploring a fascinating former Inca site with ancient stone walls and house remains, offering insights into history. Continuing we descend and join the renowned Inca Trail, stopping at Patallacta Ruins, an essential rest stop for Inca travellers heading towards Machu Picchu, before reaching our campsite equipped with shower facilities.

   Walking distance: 17 km | Ascent: 50 m | Descent: 1,365 m

8. Day 8: Trek to Inca Ruins

   Today our hike leads to the ruins of Huayna Q’ente, with impressive Inca terraces and scenic landscapes, we exit the Sanctuary through Q’oriwairachina and head to Piscacucho, the main entrance to the Inca Trail. Following the trail alongside the Vilcanota River, we pass ancient archaeological sites. The hike ends, and we then take a bus to Ollantaytambo, followed by an afternoon train to Machu Picchu Village.

   Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 255 m | Descent: 220 m

9. Day 9: Machu Picchu guided visit

   Following breakfast, take a scenic bus ride to the ruins, taking approximately half an hour. Discover the beauty of Machu Picchu and its lush surroundings, a guided exploration offers insights into its structures and history. After the visit, we catch an afternoon train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.

10. Day 10: Cusco Ruins & City Tour

    Explore the sacred temple of Qoricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo, followed by a visit to Cusco's Plaza de Armas during the city tour. Continuing, you discover the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the ceremonial site of Q'enqo, the red fortress of Puka-Pukara, and the Inca baths of Tambomachay. 

11. Day 11: Depart Cusco

    A transfer takes you to the airport for your return home. 

    Alternatively, if you wish to extend your holiday in Cusco, we can offer additional optional extras such as cooking classes, chocolate workshops, full-day trips to traditional villages and salt ponds, SUP/kayaking at Piuray Lake, and a day hike offering views across Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. Contact us to find out more.

12. Day 12: Arrive in the UK

    Arrive back into the UK after an overnight flight.