Peru | Destinations Inca Routes Machu Picchu 09D/08N

Very early, we will depart for Paracas, a nature reserve known for its marine biodiversity. On a boat ride around the Ballestas Islands, we will observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Then, we will continue to Ica, where we will visit an artisanal pisco winery and enjoy a guided tasting. The day culminates in the Huacachina oasis with an exciting dune buggy ride and the option to try sandboarding, followed by a spectacular sunset between the desert and the oasis. In the afternoon, we will return to Lima, overnight in Miraflores.

After the transfer from the hotel in Miraflores to the airport, You will take the flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, our team will be waiting for you with a sign with your name to take you to the hotel.
Cusco, located at more than 3,300 m above sea level, was the capital of the Inca Empire and is considered today the cultural heart of the Andes. The morning will be free to rest and adapt to the altitude.
In the afternoon, we will begin a guided tour of the city, starting in the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial churches on ancient Inca foundations. Then we will visit the Temple of the Sun, or Coricancha, one of the most important sacred sites in the Andean world.
The visit will continue to the nearby archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán, with its impressive cyclopean walls; Qenqo, a ceremonial center carved in rock; Puca Pucara, an ancient fortress; and Tambomachay, a ritual fountain associated with water.

During the tour, our guide will share with you stories, legends, and the profound Andean worldview that still survives in these lands.

At night the transfer will help you visit the Qosqo Nativo art center, a place of folkloric shows.

Breakfast at the hotel. At 7:40 AM, we will begin our journey to the Sacred Valley, heading to the picturesque town of Pisaq. During the journey, we will make a stop at the Mirador de Taray, from where we can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the valley.
We will continue our journey to the traditional handicraft market of Pisaq, a perfect place to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. Afterwards, we will head to the archaeological site of Pisaq, where we will explore the park and receive a detailed historical explanation about the cultural importance of this site.
Next, we will transfer to the Don Ángel restaurant, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, to enjoy a delicious buffet with a varied selection of typical dishes of the region.
The tour will end at the archaeological center of Ollantaytambo, where we will explore its imposing fortress and learn about its Significance in Inca history. Return to Cusco.

Today begins one of the most intense and spiritual experiences of the trip: the Salkantay Trek. We'll head early to Soraypampa, the base of the trek and from where we'll begin the climb to Humantay Lagoon, a turquoise water located at 4,200 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Mount Humantay. The 1.5 to 2-hour journey will take you along Andean trails, surrounded by typical flora, ancient rocks, and pure air, while you feel the imposing energy of the mountain. Upon arriving at the lagoon, you'll have a moment to meditate and connect with nature, in addition to participating in a traditional ceremony of offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth), a ritual that seeks to harmonize the traveler with the environment and give thanks for the journey. The day will end in The Quiswarniyoc camp, where you will share with the group and enjoy a nutritious dinner prepared with local ingredients.

The day begins with a demanding ascent to the Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 meters, one of the highest and most emblematic points of the trek. The reward will be a spectacular panorama where the snowy Salkantay peak dominates the horizon, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. At this point, you will feel the grandeur of nature and the smallness of humanity in its immensity. Then, the descent to Chaullay begins, a radical change of ecosystems: from the cold and dry climate of the high altitude, you will pass to a warmer and more humid environment, with abundant vegetation that announces the proximity of the high jungle. Upon arrival, you will rest at camp, sharing stories with the group and enjoying a comforting dinner.

This day will take you along trails that cross small Andean villages and tropical landscapes, to Santa Teresa, known for its coffee plantations and natural hot springs. Here you will have the opportunity to relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs, immersing yourself in warm waters surrounded by nature, a true luxury for the body after several days of hiking. Afterwards, you will continue to Aguas Calientes, the town that serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you will spend the night to rest before the big visit. The night is spent in comfortable accommodations with basic amenities, ready for the next adventure.

Early in the morning, you will climb Machu Picchu, one of the archaeological wonders of the world and a World Heritage Site. With your guide, you will tour this sanctuary, understanding the significance of each temple, plaza, and mini-terrace, and how Inca engineering allowed The harmony between the building and the natural environment. The citadel's religious, astronomical, and social functions will be detailed, and myths that live on among the local communities will be shared. After the visit, there will be time to optionally climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to enjoy privileged views (reservation required and additional fee). At the end, you will take the train back to Cusco, crossing valleys and rivers while you recharge.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Lima.