The lesser-known coffee route to Machu Picchu

Lima

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Welcome to the capital of Peru, the enchanting city of Lima! Upon arrrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can rest or start exploring the city on your own, making sure to save some energy for what's to come.

Lima - Cusco

Day 2: Get acquainted with Cusco

Today you will be taken to the airport for your flight to Cusco, where upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can either rest at the hotel or explore the city on your own.

The ancient Inca capital, Cusco is a sacred city of stone palaces and temples, and the perfect place to get acquainted with Inca culture. Enjoy your adventure through this charming Peruvian hub of history and charm!

Cusco - Saqsaywaman - Cusco

Day 3: Delve into Peruvian history

In the morning, depart Cusco and head to Saqsaywaman, an imposing Inca building that dominates Cusco from the north. Next you'll visit the Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and Q'enco archaeological sites, each one helping you understand Peruvian history and the Inca world view.

On your way back to Cusco, visit two of the city's most important buildings, the cathedral and the Qoricancha Temple of the Sun - the sacred center of the ancient Inca capital.

Cusco - Patabamba - Cusco

Day 4: Experience culture in Patabamba

After breakfast, depart for your day trip into the Sacred Valley, to visit the community of Patabamba. On the way, you'll pass quinoa and potato fields and stop at a natural viewpoint for sprawling vistas across the Sacred Valley.

Once you have reached the community itself, you'll be welcomed by villagers dressed in traditional costumes. During your time there, you'll learn about ancient dyeing and weaving techniques from the local women. Then, help prepare a pachamanca meal, following an ancient method of cooking underground using hot stones. You will also be asked to participate in a thanksgiving ceremony. This day will be filled with cultural experiences you will never forget!

Cusco - Chinchero - Urubamba

Day 5: Living history in Chinchero

Today, head to the village of Chinchero, which features a colonial church built in the former palace of Topa Inca Yupanqui. Its original features contrast and enhance the beauty of the main square. Inside, marvel at murals and paintings from the classic colonial age, each filled with symbolism and history. You'll also learn about the weaver women of Chinchero, whose works keep history alive through their organic designs. All of the colors used are produced with natural ingredients, and weaving these fabrics is a wonderful way of expressing wisdom.

Urubamba - Ollantaytambo - Santa Maria

Day 6: Journey to a local's home in Santa Maria

In the morning, take a bus to the village of Santa Maria, crossing the Abra Malaga mountain pass en-route. You will then be transferred to the start of today's walking trail, to take a scenic hike up to the home of Alejandro and his family, who will greet you warmly and prepare a delicious lunch for your enjoyment! In the afternoon, you'll get to learn about the process of preparing coffee from a local specialist - a wonderful introduction to the world of Peruvian coffee.

Santa Maria - Santa Teresa - Lucmabamba

Day 7: Soak in the Cocalmayo Hot Springs

Today, walk to the village of Santa Teresa, strolling along the risky yet beautiful path to the edge of the river. On the way, stop for the afternoon at the hot springs of Cocalmayo, where you can soak in thermal baths, drink a refreshing beer, or just enjoy the sunshine and relax your feet. Finally, you'll take a public transfer to Lucmabamba, where you will meet your friendly host, Enrique, for an overnight stay in his home.

Lucmabamba - Aguas Calientes

Day 8: Hike along an Inca trail

From Enrique's coffee plantation, start today's trek early as you wander along a well-preserved Inca trail. The cloud forest that surrounds the trail is a birdwatcher's paradise - be sure to keep your eyes peeled for any sightings. From the top, enjoy spectacular views of the impressive Inca site of Machu Picchu!

Afterwards, you'll hop on a train to Aguas Calientes, gateway to the citadel itself, for an overnight stay.

Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Day 9: Explore the marvelous Machu Picchu

Early in the morning, take a bus from Aguas Calientes to the citadel along a windy, scenic road. Upon arrival at the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, begin your guided tour of the sacred complex. You'll visit the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sundial, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the cemeteries.

After your tour, feel free to enjoy the site at your own leisure. You could even walk the last part of the Inca Trail to Intipunku, if you wish. After you've concluded your visit to Machu Picchu, return to Cusco via Ollantaytambo.

Cusco

Day 10: Explore colonial Cusco

Spend the day at your leisure, free to discover the wonderful sights of Cusco. A beautiful city with well-preserved colonial architecture, it exemplifies a rich and complex history. Spanish colonial buildings erected directly atop Inca walls line the square, while the modern tourist nightlife flourishes in their midst. You could also do some last-minute souvenir shopping - it's your last day in Peru, so spend it as you wish!

Cusco - Lima

Day 11: Goodbye, Peru!

Your off-the-beaten-track tour of Peru has been remarkable and unforgettable. Sadly, it must also come to an end. At a suitable time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home via Lima. Have a safe trip and be sure to visit Peru again soon!