Cusco – Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu- Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake

Settle into the breathtaking and atmospheric city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Upon your arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can take some time to rest and acclimatize to the city’s high altitude.

Spend the day exploring Cusco at your own pace—wander through its charming, cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, discover ancient Incan ruins hidden within the city, and soak in the vibrant energy of local life. Be sure to visit the bustling San Pedro market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, sample fresh local produce, and try delicious Peruvian dishes.

Take the evening to relax and enjoy a quiet dinner, as you’ll want to rest up for the exciting adventures that lie ahead. 

• Lodging: Cusco

Your day begins in the picturesque town of Chinchero, known for its vibrant weaving traditions and breathtaking mountain views. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit a local weaving center, where artisans will demonstrate centuries-old techniques used to create intricate textiles, from dyeing with natural pigments to hand-looming patterns that tell stories of their culture. This is a unique opportunity to learn about Andean heritage and support the local community.

Next, journey to the fascinating agricultural terraces of Moray, a true feat of ancient engineering. These circular terraces, carved into the earth like giant amphitheaters, were designed by the Incas for crop experimentation, taking advantage of the varying microclimates to grow different plants. As you marvel at this site, you’ll gain insight into the advanced agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

From there, head to the stunning Maras salt mines, an otherworldly landscape of over 3,000 salt pools cascading down the mountainside. These pools have been harvested for salt since pre-Inca times and continue to be worked by local families. The sight of sunlight reflecting off the glistening salt pools is truly a photographer’s dream.

As the day winds down, enjoy a scenic train ride through the lush Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, a charming town nestled at the base of Machu Picchu. Relax at your hotel and prepare for the highlight of your journey—visiting the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu the next day.

• Highlights: Weaving demonstrations, Moray terraces, Maras salt mines, scenic train ride 

• Lodging: Aguas Calientes

This is the day you’ve been waiting for, the highlight of your journey. Start your morning with a guided, in-depth exploration of Machu Picchu, the breathtaking crown jewel of the Andes and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your expert guide will walk you through the ancient city’s fascinating history, unravel its mysteries, and provide insight into the culture and traditions of the Incas who built this remarkable site. Learn about the significance of its perfectly engineered terraces, temples, and sacred spaces while soaking in the stunning mountain views surrounding you. 

After your guided tour, enjoy some free time to explore on your own or simply take in the awe-inspiring scenery. For those looking to add a bit more adventure, you have the option to hike either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advanced booking required), both offering unparalleled panoramic views of the ruins and the lush valleys below. 

Following your explorations, you’ll head back to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes to enjoy a relaxing lunch before beginning your return journey to Cusco. Travel by train through the scenic Andean landscape, followed by a private transfer that brings you back to your accommodations in Cusco for a well-deserved rest. 

• Optional Activity: Hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advanced booking required) 

• Lodging: Cusco

Start your morning early with a hearty, traditional Peruvian breakfast to fuel up for the exciting day ahead. You'll embark on an unforgettable journey to the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, one of Peru's hidden gems nestled high in the Andes. The adventure begins with a scenic drive through quaint mountain villages, where you can catch a glimpse of local life before arriving at the trailhead.

The hike, which winds through rugged mountain trails and picturesque landscapes, offers a mix of challenging sections and rewarding moments. Along the way, you'll marvel at the vibrant flora and fauna unique to this high-altitude region. The path gradually reveals breathtaking views of Humantay Lake's glacial-fed waters shimmering in surreal shades of blue and green—a true natural wonder.

As you approach the lake, the serene beauty of the surrounding area takes your breath away. Towering above is the imposing Mount Salkantay, its snow-capped peaks providing a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop. Once at the lake, take time to relax and reflect, soaking in the crisp mountain air and the tranquil sounds of nature. You might even participate in a brief Andean ritual led by your guide to give thanks to the Apus, or mountain spirits, believed to protect the region.

Whether you choose to sit by the water's edge, snap photos of the stunning scenery, or simply enjoy the serenity, this experience is a perfect blend of peace, adventure, and awe-inspiring beauty. After your adventure, return to Cusco with unforgettable memories of one of Peru's most beautiful landscapes.

• Lodging: Cusco

Start your day early, waking up before dawn to embark on an unforgettable adventure to Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, as it's known locally. This geological marvel, famous for its stunning, naturally layered colors of red, gold, and turquoise, is a true bucket-list destination. The trek begins with a scenic drive through picturesque valleys, where you'll see herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. 

As you hike through the awe-inspiring landscape, you'll be surrounded by the towering beauty of Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region, and its glistening glaciers. The trek is challenging due to the high altitude, but with each step, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views that only get better as you ascend. At the summit, the incredible panoramic vistas of the colorful mountain range will make the effort feel absolutely worthwhile. 

On your journey, you'll pass through charming indigenous villages where you can connect with the local Quechua community. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in their traditions, see their vibrant clothing, and learn about their way of life, deeply rooted in harmony with nature. Stop to take in the quiet majesty of the Andes and feel a deep sense of connection to this remarkable place. 

This is more than just a trek; it’s an experience that will leave a lasting impression and give you memories to cherish for a lifetime. 

• Lodging: Cusco

Spend your final morning in Cusco at your own pace. Take the opportunity to explore the charming streets once more, pick up some last-minute souvenirs at the local markets, or savor a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café. Reflect on the incredible memories and breathtaking experiences you’ve gathered throughout the week. When it’s time, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, carrying with you the spirit of Peru and memories to last a lifetime.