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Trip Inspiration

13 Day Active Peru

An Active Exploration of Peru

Over the course of thirteen days, dive deeply into the landscapes and ancient ruins of Peru. Spend three nights hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Kayak the crystal clear waters of Lake Piuray, with snowcapped mountains towering above. Trek up Rainbow Mountain, marveling at its many colors and geological layers. Bike to the mysterious Moray and the fascinating salt pools at Maras. Whether ziplining to lunch or biking through the countryside, you'll be surprised and wowed around every corner!

Trip Highlights

Locations

  • 2 nights at Villa Barranco in the capital city of Lima
  • 2 nights in the Sacred Valley at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
  • 3 nights on the Inca Trail
  • 1 night in Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
  • 3 nights at Inkaterra La Casona in Cusco

Activities

  • Surfing lesson
  • Explore Incan ruins and terraces
  • Bike to Maras & Moray
  • Zipline and climb Via Ferrata to a dining capsule hanging above the Sacred Valley
  • Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
  • Climb Wayna Picchu Mountain
  • Kayak and paddle board in Lake Piuray
  • Ascend Rainbow Mountain
Our travel consultants create a custom itinerary for each client,

offering recommendations for places and experiences that best fit your style. We are sharing this itinerary to inspire and provide an example of what a trip to Peru might look like. When you are ready to design a trip just for you, please let us know.

Day 1

Arrive Lima, Peru

Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival in Lima, you will be met for your private transfer to Villa Barranco. Accommodations will be reserved for two nights, including breakfast daily.

Villa Barranco Meals: N/A

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Day 2

Lima

This morning after breakfast, you will set off for a half day surfing lesson.

Peru, and specifically Lima, is home to a large surfing community, which has produced some world-class surfers. And today, you will learn all the tips and tricks at one of the best local surfing spots, to be chosen by your instructor based on the prevailing ocean and weather conditions.

Upon arrival, you will be fitted with boards and equipment and participate in a surfing theory lesson on the sand before applying those techniques in the water. Paddling out into the refreshing surf, you will spend the next few hours having endless fun on the waves. Afterwards, you’ll head to a local restaurant to enjoy some delicious ceviche and a cold beer or a glass of chicha morada (traditional purple corn drink).

You will then be transferred back to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Villa Barranco Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

Day 3

Lima to Sacred Valley

This morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the Lima Airport for your commercial flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, you will be met by your local private guide for a scenic drive to Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

You will travel through a spectacular panorama of patchwork fields, picturesque Andean towns, agricultural terraces and archaeological sites. The mild climate and the varied and dramatic scenery of snow-capped mountains, flowering meadows, lush green hills and spectacular flora and fauna make the Sacred Valley a prime adventure destination in South America. At a lower elevation than Cusco, it is a warm and comfortable environment in which to begin your exploration of the region.

After a winding 45-minute drive passing through serene Andean mountain countryside, your vista suddenly opens up to reveal the historical village and surrounding farmland of Pisac stretched out far below. Passing through the village, you’ll drive up to the Inca citadel and hike among some of the most impressive ruins in the Sacred Valley, whose structures are in excellent condition, although the original purpose of the site remains a mystery. It has been speculated that the ruins were part ceremonial center, part residential site, and part military fortress. Climbing to the high point of the ruins, you will be greeted with an amazing view of the Sacred Valley and its surrounding peaks.

From here, you will take a leisurely hike down to the village on a well-maintained trail that winds its way through extensive Andean agricultural terracing (still in use today) and stunning mountainside vistas. Pisac is known for its large open-air market, where vendors sell everything, including local handicrafts of all kinds. Tuesdays and Sundays are local Market Days, adding an extra dimension to the experience as villagers from miles around arrive with colorful fruits and vegetables, fresh herbs, flowers, and many varieties of Andean potatoes for sale or barter.

Continuing on, the adventure ends at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, where you will stay for three nights. Surrounded by countryside and imposing green mountains, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba spans approximately 100 acres. All rooms and stand-alone luxury casitas feature breathtaking views of the valley, immersing guests in open space, serenity and relaxing solitude. Architecture and interiors are inspired by the area’s cultural history, with colonial furniture, authentic Inca masks and handcrafted woodwork that add to the hacienda’s local charm.

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

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Day 4

 

Sacred Valley

This morning you will be met by your private guide for a day of exploring Maras & Moray by bike.

You will transfer to the village of Chinchero, which the Incas considered the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. Here, you will be fitted for your bicycle and set off to visit two of the Sacred Valley’s most fascinating destinations. Passing the lagoon of Huaypo you’ll first arrive at the archaeological site of Moray. Enjoy the natural beauty while you marvel at the mysterious circular terraces that some historians believe created mini-microclimates used to grow different crops.

A one-hour, downhill ride will immerse you in the peace of the Andean countryside, before arriving at the village of Maras. Enjoy lunch and then continue to the nearby salt pools of Maras. Originally mined by the Incans, these ancient and colorful pools are now individually owned and tended by the local people. Your magnificent bike ride will conclude after another 40 minutes downhill. You will then be transferred to Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure!

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

Day 5

Sacred Valley

This morning after breakfast, you will be met for your excursion at Skylodge Adventure Suites. Perched atop a mountain overlooking the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the exclusive Skylodge opens its doors to day visitors who love both adventure and good food. You’ll start by safely scaling 1,312 feet up the side of a mountain via ferrata, an adrenaline filled experience that uses fixed cables, rungs, ladders and bridges. At the top, you find yourself at the property’s suspended transparent dining capsule where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, complete with four courses (soup, salad, main course, and dessert) and nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages (red or white wine or champagne). Savor the magnificent views of this magical place and appreciate the climb you just completed. Then, after lunch you will zipline back to the valley below.

Please note that the minimum age for ziplining and lunch at the Skylodge Adventure Suites is 6 years old and 9 years old for climbing via ferrata.  For those interested, and if requested well in advance, a hike option is alternatively available in place of the climb. A private photographer will capture your experience so you can focus on the task at hand.  This is sure to be one of your best days in Peru!

Following your tour, you will be returned to the hotel.

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

 

 

 

Day 6

Sacred Valley to the Inca Trail

This morning after breakfast and checkout, you will transfer to “kilometer 82” to begin your private hike on the Inca Trail. You will hike for about five hours through a little visited section of the trail. Upon arrival in Chamana, a small village that’s part of the Llaqtapata Community, a warm lunch will await you at your private campsite. As evening approaches, you will have the option to visit the archaeological sites of Wayna Q’ente and Llaqtapata, charming ruins that consist of stone walls, stairs, and other incredible ancient Incan monuments and constructions.

Camping on the Inca Trail Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 7

Inca Trail

After breakfast, you will continue up the Cusichaca Valley toward the Andean community of Huayllabamba. From here, the cobble-stoned Inca Trail ascends steeply through an ancient native forest bursting with melodic birdsong. The trail begins to level out at the campsite at Llulluchapampa, situated just below the first pass. Here, you’ll experience breathtaking views of Mt. Huayanay and a first glimpse of the rare Andean cloud forest of Quenua, or Polyepis trees. Their reddish bark peels into paper-like sheets, hence their familiar name, “Paper Tree.”

Camping on the Inca Trail Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8

 

Inca Trail

After breakfast, begin a steady ascent up to Warmiwanusqa Pass (13,871 ft) where you’re met with panoramic views of the terrain you’ve just conquered. Revel in a real sense of accomplishment at having reached this challenging high point of the journey, one that is nearly 5,905 feet higher than Machu Picchu itself.

From here, you’ll enjoy a much-welcomed descent to the Pacaymayo River. After a hearty lunch in Pacaymayo, you ascend again to the ruins of Runkuraqay and your second pass (13,018 ft). You will then walk down to the site of Sayacmarc, which sits on the original Inca Trail, passing a dry lake and the first signs of the mist-filled Andean cloud forest. Many plants and animals thrive in the cloud forest, including endemic species found nowhere else on earth! You may spot hummingbirds, butterflies, and delicate orchids of various brilliant hues.

The trek then moves steadily along a ridge, offering incredible views of the beautiful Aobamba Valley below, including snow-capped Mt. Salkantay on the western side, as well as Mt. Pumasillo silhouetted on the horizon to the north. Following the flag-stoned trail, you  will arrive at your evening’s campsite at Phuyupatamarca, whose name in Quechua means “village at the edge of the clouds.”

Camping on the Inca Trail Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

An early departure today will have you trekking along a buttress and passing Phuyupatamarca ruins, from where the flag stoned trail winds sharply down into the cloud forest to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, a well restored Incan ruin. After a two hour walk through a forest-covered Inca Trail you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu the way the Incas used to come, looking down over the magnificent citadel from Intipunku, the door of the sun.

After time for some pictures, you will make your way down to the park entrance, where you will board the bus and head down the mountain to the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Aguas Calientes for some well-deserved rest.

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is like an intimate Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and 83 whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in the cloud forest. The property has 12 acres of exquisite natural beauty, where 214 bird species – such as the golden-headed quetzal and the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock – and the world’s largest native orchid collection have been registered. After exploring the Historic Sanctuary and in-house excursions, you can enjoy the Unu Spa, which combines the classic nurturing with a mystical Andean approach.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 10

Machu Picchu to Cusco

This morning after breakfast and checkout, return to Machu Picchu for further exploration with your guide and to climb the challenging Wayna Picchu Mountain.

Machu Picchu, which means “Old Mountain,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the seven new wonders of the world. Lose yourself in awe in the “lost city of the Incas” as you admire the ruins. Feel as though you’ve been transported into a work of art as you marvel at the landscape of this iconic Inca civilization. Discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and believed to have been built to control the economies of neighboring communities, these ancient ruins depict a time of innovation, artistry and expansion of one of Latin America’s most notable historic empires. Believed by some historians to be a sacred religious site due to its location, there is certainly a spiritual energy on this green mountaintop cloaked in clouds.

Wayna Picchu is the tall mountain behind Machu Picchu, made famous in many iconic photographs of the citadel and surrounding area. There are fabulous views of Machu Picchu from the top, but the hike is strenuous and is only recommended for people who are not scared of heights and who have a good fitness level. Note: permits are required and must be confirmed and purchased well in advance. Time: 2 ½ hours, round-trip. Grade: Rigorous

This afternoon, you will board the Hiram Bingham train toward Cusco. A gourmet dinner will be served on board.

Travel through the Peruvian Andes in opulent style aboard the famed Belmond Hiram Bingham train. Your journey begins in Aguas Calientes and ends at the Poroy Station. Named after the explorer who rediscovered the Inca citadel, and designed to emulate the Pullman cars of the 1920s, the train combines old-world class with modern day luxury. The train is equipped with four cars, including two dining cars, a bar and observation car, a kitchen, and a staff attentive to ensuring you receive the highest levels of comfort and personalized service. Sit back, relax and delight in the breathtaking scenery on your journey through the Sacred Valley and Andean villages aboard the train that is synonymous with luxury travel and truly is in a class of its own.

Upon arrival in Poroy, you will be met for your private transfer to Inkaterra La Casona, where you will spend the next three nights. This exquisite 16th-century colonial manor was one of the first Spanish buildings in Cusco, located just steps away from the picturesque main square. Once occupied by the conquistadors of Peru, it is now an exclusive boutique hotel that has been carefully restored to retain its historical heritage and décor. With its suites set around a Spanish courtyard, replete with antiques and original architectural details, Inkaterra La Casona offers sober elegance without sacrificing authenticity. This is the perfect base from which to explore the vibrant capital of the Incan Empire and absorb the mysticism of the surrounding Andean valleys and villages.

Inkaterra La Casona Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

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Day 11

Cusco

This morning after breakfast, you will head to Lake Piuray, near the village of Chinchero, for a kayaking and/or paddle boarding adventure. Upon arrival you will have a safety briefing and get familiar with the equipment before hitting the lake for two hours. Enjoy looking out over the surrounding hills dotted with farm terraces and forests as well as the great views of the Sacred Valley’s snow-capped mountains. Afterwards, you’ll sit down for a tasty Pachamanca lunch on the lakeshore. Pachamanca refers to a traditional, Andean technique of cooking meats and vegetables in the ground using hot stones.

Following your excursion, you will be returned to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

Inkaterra La Casona Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

 

Day 12

 

Cusco

This morning after breakfast, you will be met for your full day hike to Vinicunca, also known as “Rainbow Mountain.” Getting an early start to the day, you’ll head toward Chilca, where your trek begins. En route, you will make a stop in the town of Urcos for a visit to its bustling and vibrant local market, and then in Checacupe to see a charming colonial bridge that dates from the mid-eighteenth century.

Upon reaching Pampachiri, you’ll disembark and begin the trek along a challenging and ascending 6 mile trail that brings you to an elevation of 15,715 ft. In the refreshing and rarefied mountain air, you’ll hike to Rainbow Mountain and marvel at its spectacular natural striated colors formed by layers of eroded sediment over the centuries. Climbing to the top, you can take some time to enjoy the surrounding panoramic landscape before beginning your descent. (Note: This 11.5hr tour includes 7hrs of driving roundtrip to reach Vinicunca.)

After your tour you will be returned to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

Inkaterra La Casona Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

Day 13

Depart Peru

This morning,  you will be transferred to the Cusco Airport for your commercial flights to Lima, where you will continue on to your international flights home.

N/A Meals: Breakfast

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