10-day Peru hike: the splendor of the Andes

Sacred Valley

Tag 1: Welcome to the Sacred Valley

Upon your landing at Cusco's airport, a local representative will take you via private transfer towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Because of its lower elevation (2,870m or 9,415ft) and peaceful atmosphere, the Sacred Valley is the perfect place to enjoy your first days in Peru. If time allows, you might make a short stop at the traditional Pisac Market to appreciate the many local and regional products sold there.

Depending on how you feel on your first day, you could visit two more very special sites: the Manos de la Comunidad workshop on Cusco's outskirts, to see the different camelids of the Peruvian Andes, and the Taray viewpoint with its spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Then, once in your hotel, relax and enjoy its facilities for the rest of the day.

Ollantaytambo

Tag 2: Hike through the splendor of Ollantaytambo

This morning you'll walk to one of the most charming sites in the valley, crossing the Urubamba River and following the train tracks towards Ollantaytambo. The path is beautiful and rarely frequented by other travelers, and on the way, you'll cross many farms and small rural houses. On a clear day, you could even see the snowy peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range.

Ollantaytambo has not changed much since Inca times. Aside from the town center, you'll visit its archaeological site, featuring impressive Inca stonework only seconded by that of Machu Picchu.

You will then have a delicious lunch overlooking the town’s main square. If you fancy another short hike, head up to the Pinkulluna viewpoint, where you'll find a group of small towers, granaries, and other Inca constructions on the mountain.

Machu Picchu

Tag 3: Marvel at the magnitude of Machu Picchu

Today is the big day! Early this morning, take a 30-minute bus up the steep zigzagging road to Machu Picchu Citadel, located in an impressive mountain setting.

Upon arrival, you'll first head to the terrace sector from where you'll have amazing views of the main site. Sit down to enjoy the scenery while your guide presents you with an introduction to Machu Picchu.

Afterwards, begin your excursion through the main complex of Machu Picchu together with your private guide. Explore every corner of the famous citadel, with your guide on hand to answer any questions, for a better understanding of Machu Picchu and Inca culture. 

Cusco

Tag 4: Discover the heritage of Cusco

Strap on your walking shoes for a soft hike around the historical center of Cusco and the surrounding countryside! Begin the tour on the outskirts of Cusco with a visit to Sacsayhuaman, a massive Inca fortress overlooking the city. From there you'll make an easy one-hour descent through a small portion of an old Inca road, one of the best-preserved in the area, to reach the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas.

Today's walking city tour of Cusco will take you not only through the most popular sites, such as the Main Square, Cathedral, and Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), but also along ancient streets, local markets, and old neighborhoods - a great chance to discover the magic of Cusco, and to get a genuine feel of this marvelous city and its people.

Cusco - Ausangate

Tag 5: Embark on the Trail of the Apu Ausangate

Prepare for your upcoming adventure to southern Cusco: today, you will embark on one of the most astonishing routes in the region, the Trail of the Apu Ausangate.

This off-the-beaten-path trekking experience will take you to less-visited towns throughout the Vilcanota range to reach the imposing Apu Ausangate, one of the most important deities of the Incas back in time.

Early this morning, depart from Cusco and head along the Vilcanota River to the village of Checacupe. After a brief visit to its colonial church, ascend Pitumarca's Red Valley along the stunning Japura Gorge. 

From Japura, trek a short distance to Chillca, where locals and musicians playing Andean instruments will greet you as you settle into your eco-lodge. The first of a series of eco-lodges you'll be staying in, this one is located on the Pampa Uyuni plain, in a valley irrigated by the purest glacial waters.

Ausangate

Tag 6: Hike amongst the Andes

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, start your trek through the glacial valley of Phinaya alongside thousands of alpacas and llamas.

On the way, you will climb past the inspiring Pjachaj waterfalls, where a picnic lunch awaits. Surrounded by moraine walls, glaciers and lagoons, you will then start a five-hour walk to your next eco-lodge. A llama caravan will help with your bags and meet you there, where the host family will welcome you in.

This second lodge, Machuracay Tambo, is located at an elevation of 4,815m - making it the closest to Apu Ausangate. It offers spectacular views of the peak as well as of impressive rock formations populated with numerous wild viscachas.

Ausangate

Tag 7: The beauty of Cocha Lake

Wake up and admire your beautiful surroundings! Today, after breakfast, you'll cross your first mountain pass at 5,055m (16,587ft), from where you'll enjoy extraordinary panoramic views.

Descending alongside the glaciers, you will then hike to Cocha Lake for lunch. The landscape will dramatically change here due to the red sandstone formations, where you may spot vicuñas and condors if you're lucky.

After a beautiful day of hiking, arrive at Anantapata Lodge, ready to rest and enjoy the facilities. It's located amidst a stunning wetland, traditionally used as a herding area for alpacas, and surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Tacusiri and Ausangate.

During your time there, get to know the Chillca community, who'll share their culture and lifestyle as well as showcase their efforts to get involved in sustainable tourism.

Ausangate

Tag 8: The night skies of the Andes

This morning, hike a portion of the trail along rugged mountain peaks and a valley colored by vibrant red, ochre, and blue soil strata. Look out for small groups of delicate vicuñas, usually spotted in this remote area.

Stop for lunch here while enjoying the unique landscape. Afterwards, go in search of the most beautiful colors of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), before starting your journey to your next eco-lodge, Huampococha Tambo. En-route you may see hundreds of Andean geese nesting on the cliffs of Anta, and the flat-iron formations of the Apu Labrayani.

Your lodge, located at 4,800m, offers a panoramic view of Lake Huampococha and incredible night skies. Spend the night surrounded by stunning landscapes, listening to the alpaca herders telling stories of Andean apus and deities.

Ausangate - Cusco

Tag 9: Journey back to Cusco

Enjoy a farewell breakfast before departing your eco-lodge. Then, hike up over the Anta Pass and begin a gradual descent towards Trapiche, where you'll witness outstanding views. Continue to the end of the trail, culminating in a delicious lunch.

Your astonishing hiking adventure has come to an end, and transportation will be waiting at the trailhead for your trip back to Cusco. In the afternoon, explore artisan stores filled with souvenirs of all kinds - weavings, jewelry, stonework, and more - and end the day at a local restaurant, indulging in the very best of Andean cuisine.

Cusco

Tag 10: Say farewell to Peru

Today, you'll have some free time to explore the area at your own pace and leisure - maybe take a last walk around Cusco's shops and markets. Then, at a predetermined time, you'll transfer to Cusco's airport to board your flight to Lima, for a connecting flight back home.