short inca trail

Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Cusco

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the artistic neighborhoods of Barranco and Miraflores in coastal Lima.

  • Enjoy a picnic paddle experience at the serene Huaypo Lagoon in the Andes.

  • Visit Pisac ruins and market, then bike to Moray and the Maras salt flats.

  • Hike from Pumamarca to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town.

  • Trek the Inca Trail, sleeping in fully equipped, comfortable campsites and witnessing sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.

What’s included
• 13 nights in luxury and/or boutique accommodations
• Private transfers and tours with an English speaking guide and driver
• All internal flights in economy class seating

What’s not included
• International flights
• Travel insurance

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Itinerary in Detail

Use the arrows on the right or click on each day to view the day-by-day breakdown of your journey.

Day 1: Welcome to Peru

Arrive in Lima and settle into your boutique hotel, where your journey begins with comfort and ease. A private guide will greet you at the airport and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

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Day 2: Cultural Treasures of Lima

Explore Peru’s capital on a half-day guided tour featuring Huaca Pucllana, Plaza de Armas, the San Francisco catacombs, and the renowned Museo Larco. This is the perfect introduction to Peru’s rich past and its contemporary elegance.

Day 3: Journey to Cusco
Fly to Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival, your private driver will take you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to acclimate to the altitude.
Day 4: Stories Within Stone
Embark on a private walking tour of the Inca archaeological sites surrounding Cuzco. Enjoy a gentle downhill walk as your guide brings the ruins and stories to life. Return to the city center for the evening.
Day 5: Lake Picnic in the Andes
Head to the tranquil Huaypo Lagoon, nestled among snow-capped peaks. Glide across the water on a paddle excursion, followed by a riverside picnic surrounded by nature. Return to Cuzco in the afternoon.
Day 6: Cusco at Leisure
Enjoy the freedom to explore Cuzco at your own pace. Shop for artisan textiles, visit historic sites or simply relax in a café soaking in the city’s timeless charm.
Day 7: Sacred Valley Beginnings

Journey into the Sacred Valley. Begin with a visit to Pisac’s bustling market and the Inca citadel perched above. Spend the night in a peaceful valley retreat.

Day 8: Biking Through Andean Landscapes

Pedal through the Sacred Valley on an unforgettable cycling adventure, following scenic trails that wind through dramatic canyons, fertile farmland, and remote Andean communities. Along the way, explore the fascinating circular terraces of Moray—an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory—and marvel at the surreal landscape of the Maras salt ponds, where thousands of shimmering pools have been hand-harvested for centuries.

Local Peruvian artisan at work

Day 9: Fortress to Forest

Trek from the lesser-visited ruins of Pumamarca to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with cobbled streets and a towering fortress. This route offers panoramic views and cultural richness.

Day 10: Inca Trail, the Journey Begins
Begin your trek along the legendary Inca Trail. After a morning briefing, set off on a scenic hike through lush mountain terrain, encountering ancient ruins along the way. Each night, sleep in fully equipped and prepared campsites, offering comfort, hot meals, and excellent service in the middle of nature.
Day 11: Dead Woman's Pass
Today you’ll conquer the highest point of the Inca Trail — Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200 meters). A rewarding challenge with stunning views, followed by rest in your comfortable mountain campsite.
Day 12: Cloud Forest & Ruins
Descend into cloud forest landscapes and explore ancient sites and stone tunnels carved into the mountain. This day is filled with natural beauty and archaeological wonders. Overnight again in a full-service campsite.
Day 13: Machu Picchu & Return to Cuzco

Reach the Sun Gate at sunrise and witness your first awe-inspiring glimpse of Machu Picchu, bathed in golden morning light. After this unforgettable arrival, explore the legendary citadel with your expert guide, uncovering its mysteries and marvels. Later, board the train back to Cuzco for one final evening surrounded by the magic of the Andes.

Day 14: Farewell Peru

Fly back to Lima and connect to your international flight home, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of Peru’s landscapes, flavors, and heartfelt moments.

Discover authentic Peru. Request your custom quote and start planning your trip.

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