Discover Peru: From Ancient Inca Trails to the Heart of the Amazon
Experience the magic of Peru through carefully crafted itineraries that blend ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters. Whether you're drawn to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, the challenging beauty of high-altitude treks, or the vibrant biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers adventures that create memories lasting a lifetime.
Our expertly designed journeys cater to first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, balancing cultural immersion with physical adventure. From the coastal elegance of Lima to the cloud-wrapped peaks of the Andes and the steamy depths of the jungle, every destination tells a story. Let us guide you through Peru's most iconic experiences with the comfort, safety, and local insight you deserve.
Explore Classic Peru
Peru Highlights: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Cusco
10–12 Days | Culture, Cuisine & Inca History
First-Timer Friendly
Perfect introduction to Peru's highlights with gradual altitude acclimatization
Moderate Pace
Balanced mix of cultural touring and optional light hiking
Two Machu Picchu Visits
Experience the citadel twice—guided tour plus sunrise viewing
This comprehensive journey is designed for travelers who want the complete Peruvian experience without extreme physical demands. You'll begin at sea level in Lima, exploring world-renowned cuisine and colonial architecture, before gradually ascending to the high Andes. The itinerary strategically places you in the Sacred Valley first—at a comfortable middle elevation—allowing your body to adjust naturally before visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu.
What sets this itinerary apart is its thoughtful pacing and variety. You'll spend quality time in each region, with built-in flexibility for personal preferences. Whether you're interested in textile workshops, archaeological sites, adventure activities, or simply soaking in the mountain scenery, there's room to customize your days while maintaining a relaxed rhythm that prevents altitude-related issues.
Route Overview
  • Lima (2 nights)
  • Sacred Valley (2–3 nights)
  • Aguas Calientes (1–2 nights)
  • Cusco (3 nights)
Altitude Progression
Lima: Sea level
Sacred Valley: 2,800 m / 9,200 ft
Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,970 ft
Cusco: 3,400 m / 11,150 ft
Days 1–3: Lima – Culinary Capital & Colonial Charm
1
Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Welcome
Touch down in Lima and transfer to your hotel in the trendy Miraflores or artistic Barranco district. After settling in, take an evening stroll along the malecón—the clifftop promenade overlooking the Pacific—or enjoy a welcome dinner at one of Lima's celebrated restaurants. The city's vibrant energy and ocean breezes set the perfect tone for your Peruvian adventure.
2
Day 2: Food & History Immersion
Begin with a guided walk through Lima's UNESCO-listed colonial center, visiting Plaza Mayor, the ornate San Francisco monastery with its catacombs, and the Presidential Palace. After lunch, explore the Larco Museum's exceptional pre-Columbian collection housed in an 18th-century mansion. Cap the day with an optional pisco tasting class or chef's table experience—Lima is South America's gastronomic capital, after all.
3
Day 3: Flight to Cusco, Descent to Sacred Valley
A short morning flight brings you to Cusco, where the real strategy begins. Instead of staying at high elevation, you'll immediately descend into the Sacred Valley, arriving at lunch time. Stop at Pisac's terraced ruins and artisan market, or visit Chinchero for a textile demonstration by local weavers. The lower altitude and stunning mountain scenery make this the perfect transition point.

Pro Tip: Lima's food scene rivals any global capital. Don't miss ceviche at a local cebichería, and consider booking a street-food tour to discover anticuchos, picarones, and causa in atmospheric neighborhoods.
Days 4–6: Sacred Valley – Inca Engineering & Andean Villages
The Sacred Valley is far more than a stopover—it's a destination in its own right. Nestled between towering peaks and following the meandering Urubamba River, this fertile corridor was the agricultural heartland of the Inca Empire. You'll spend 2–3 nights here, allowing time to explore magnificent ruins, interact with local communities, and prepare for Machu Picchu.
Ollantaytambo Fortress
This living Inca town features some of the empire's finest stonework, including massive monoliths transported from quarries miles away. Climb the terraces for sweeping valley views.
Moray & Maras
Visit the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an agricultural laboratory, then explore thousands of ancient salt pans at Maras, still harvested by local families.
Textile Traditions
Meet master weavers who use pre-Columbian techniques and natural dyes. Many offer hands-on workshops where you can try spinning alpaca fiber or weaving simple patterns.
Day 5: Choose Your Adventure
This flexible day allows you to match activities to your interests and energy level. Options include:
  • Via ferrata and zipline for thrill-seekers
  • Gentle river rafting (seasonal, Class II–III)
  • Mountain biking between villages
  • Pottery or cooking workshop
  • Community visit with local family
For 10-day itineraries, you can skip this extra Valley day and proceed to Aguas Calientes. For 11–12 day journeys, this breathing room makes a significant difference in how relaxed and energized you feel throughout the trip.
Days 6–8: Machu Picchu – The Lost Citadel Experience
No visit to Peru is complete without Machu Picchu, and this itinerary maximizes your time at this Wonder of the World with a smart two-entry strategy. By staying overnight in Aguas Calientes (the gateway town at the mountain's base), you gain access to both a comprehensive daytime tour and a magical sunrise viewing—two completely different experiences that most day-trippers miss.
01
Day 6: Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes
Board the train at Ollantaytambo station for one of the world's most beautiful rail journeys. The train hugs the Urubamba River as it descends through increasingly lush cloud forest. Arrive in Aguas Calientes by early afternoon, check into your hotel, and spend the remainder of the day at leisure—perhaps soaking in the town's thermal springs or picking up your bus tickets and entrance passes for tomorrow.
02
Day 7: First Machu Picchu Visit – Guided Tour
Rise early for the short bus ride up the switchback road to Machu Picchu. Your expert guide will lead a 2–3 hour tour through the citadel's temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces, explaining the site's astronomical alignments, water engineering, and theories about its purpose. After the tour, you have options: hike to the Inca Bridge for dramatic views, or make the steep climb to the Sun Gate if it's accessible from the citadel side. Return to town for lunch and rest.
03
Day 8: Sunrise at Machu Picchu, Train to Cusco
Pre-dawn departure lets you witness Machu Picchu as the sun illuminates the ancient stones—a truly unforgettable moment. If you've secured advance permits, this is your chance to hike Huayna Picchu (the iconic peak behind the ruins) or Machu Picchu Mountain for aerial perspectives. Mid-afternoon, board the train back through the valley. Arrive in Cusco by evening, where a private transfer whisks you to your hotel.

Permit Alert: Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes require separate, limited permits that sell out weeks or months in advance. Book early if these are priorities, and know that they add 2–3 hours of steep climbing to your day.
Why Two Entries?
Experiencing Machu Picchu twice reveals its many moods. The daytime visit with a guide unlocks the history and meaning behind what you're seeing. The sunrise visit offers solitude, ethereal morning mist, and golden light painting the ruins—perfect for photography and personal reflection.
Train Options
Choose from Expedition (comfortable, budget-friendly), Vistadome (panoramic windows, snack service), or luxury options like the Hiram Bingham with gourmet dining. Request river-view seats on the outbound journey for the best scenery.
Days 9–11: Cusco – Navel of the Inca World
Cusco demands your full attention. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, this high-altitude city is a living museum where Spanish colonial churches rest on Inca foundations, and cobblestone streets wind past ancient walls fitted with stones so precisely you can't slip a knife blade between them. At 3,400 meters (11,150 feet), you'll be grateful for the acclimatization you've built up over the previous week.
Day 9: Cusco City Walk & Sacsayhuamán
Your guide leads you through the historic center, starting at Plaza de Armas, surrounded by arcades and the imposing cathedral. Visit Qorikancha, the "Temple of the Sun," where earthquake-proof Inca walls support the Spanish Santo Domingo church. Wander the artisan neighborhood of San Blas with its narrow alleys and workshops. At sunset, head uphill to Sacsayhuamán—a massive fortress complex with zigzagging walls built from stones weighing up to 200 tons.
Day 10: Optional Adventures
Choose your own Cusco experience. Adventurous souls can tackle Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) for its striped mineral peaks—challenging due to altitude (5,200m) but spectacular. Prefer something gentler? Palcoyo offers "alternative rainbow mountains" with easier access. Culture enthusiasts might explore the South Valley's Tipón water gardens and the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" at Andahuaylillas. Or simply take a cooking class and learn to prepare ceviche and pisco sours.
Day 11: Buffer Day (Recommended)
This extra Cusco night is invaluable. It cushions against weather delays or train changes, gives you time to shop for alpaca textiles and crafts without rushing, or lets you revisit a favorite café. Consider a spa afternoon, visit the contemporary art museum, or simply people-watch from a Plaza de Armas balcony with coca tea in hand.
Altitude Tips for Cusco
By the time you reach Cusco, you've spent nearly a week at increasingly higher elevations. Still, take it easy your first evening. Skip alcohol, drink plenty of water, and consider coca tea (legal and traditional). If you feel breathless or have a mild headache, it's normal. Serious symptoms are rare with this gradual approach, but let your guide know if you're struggling.
Shopping Highlights
  • San Blas artisan workshops
  • Pisac or Chinchero markets
  • Alpaca wool and baby alpaca items
  • Handwoven textiles and ceramics
  • Local chocolate and coffee
Logistics, Hotels & What's Included
Included
  • Private airport & hotel transfers
  • Professional English-speaking guides
  • All entrance fees & site tickets
  • Train: Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes
  • Two Machu Picchu entries (tour + sunrise)
  • Bus tickets up/down to citadel
  • Selected breakfasts & curated meals
Not Included
  • International flights to/from Peru
  • Most lunches and dinners
  • Huayna Picchu/Mountain permits (if desired)
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Personal expenses & souvenirs
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Hotel Tiers & Accommodation
We offer two carefully curated hotel categories, each delivering authentic Peruvian hospitality with distinct styles. All properties emphasize location, comfort, and character over generic chains.
Train Classes
Expedition: Comfortable, panoramic windows, good value
Vistadome: Larger windows, leather seats, snacks & beverages included
Hiram Bingham: Luxury service with gourmet meals, bar car, live music (optional upgrade)
Family-Friendly Adjustments
Traveling with children? We can shorten walking tours, add wildlife-focused activities like an animal sanctuary visit, and arrange inter-connecting hotel rooms. Most kids 8+ handle the altitude well with proper acclimatization.

Best Time to Visit: April through October offers dry weather and clear skies—ideal for Machu Picchu and mountain views. November to March brings rain and lush greenery; crowds thin, but expect afternoon showers. Shoulder months (April, May, September, October) balance weather and visitor numbers beautifully.
Salkantay Trek: Lodge-to-Lodge Mountain Adventure
5 Days / 4 Nights | Alpine Passes to Cloud Forest
The Salkantay Trek offers an exhilarating alternative route to Machu Picchu for travelers who crave dramatic mountain scenery but prefer comfortable lodge accommodations to camping. Named after the sacred Salkantay peak (6,271m / 20,574ft), this journey traverses high alpine passes, descends through cloud forest ecosystems, and culminates at Machu Picchu—all while you sleep in cozy beds each night.
Soraypampa (3,900m)
Day 1 begins with a drive from Cusco to Soraypampa base camp. After lunch at your first lodge, take an acclimatization hike to stunning turquoise Humantay Lake. The climb is challenging but rewards you with glacier views and a sacred mountain lagoon.
Salkantay Pass (4,630m)
Day 2 is the big pass day. You'll ascend to 4,630 meters with sweeping views of Salkantay's massive glacier face and surrounding peaks. After reaching the pass marker, descend into warmer cloud forest zones, watching the landscape transform from barren alpine to lush greenery. Night at Wayracmachay or Collpapampa lodge.
Lucmabamba (2,000m)
Day 3 continues the descent through orchid-filled trails buzzing with hummingbirds. Enjoy optional hot springs, then visit a coffee farm to learn about Peru's organic coffee production and taste beans from tree to cup. The lodge here sits amid cloud forest with incredible biodiversity.
Llactapata & Aguas Calientes
Day 4 brings your first view of Machu Picchu from the Llactapata archaeological site—a powerful preview across the valley. Descend on original Inca stone paths to Hidroeléctrica, then catch the train to Aguas Calientes. Tomorrow's citadel visit awaits.
Machu Picchu & Return
Day 5: Rise early for your guided Machu Picchu tour. Having earned this moment through four days of trekking makes it all the more meaningful. Optional permit hikes available. Afternoon train returns you to Cusco, where you can celebrate your achievement.
Lodge vs. Camping
Both Salkantay options follow similar routes, but lodges provide hot showers, comfortable beds, and restaurant-quality meals. Camping treks cost less but require carrying personal gear and sleeping in tents. For most travelers, the lodge version balances adventure with recovery.
6–9
Hours hiking per day
Variable terrain with sustained climbs
15,190
Feet at highest pass
Salkantay Pass elevation
5
Days total
Including Machu Picchu visit

Fitness Requirement: You should be comfortable hiking 6–9 hours daily with elevation gain/loss, carrying a daypack (8–10 lbs). Previous high-altitude experience helps but isn't required. Two acclimatization nights in Cusco or Sacred Valley before starting are strongly recommended.
What's Included: Trek permits, certified mountain guide, support team, horses/porters for main luggage, all lodge nights, trek meals, first-aid kit and oxygen, Machu Picchu entry/bus/train, transfers. Not Included: Sleeping bag (can rent), personal gear, gratuities, optional Huayna Picchu permit.
Best Season: April through October offers dry trails and clear skies. November through March brings muddy conditions and cloud-covered peaks, though the cloud forest blooms beautifully.
Classic Inca Trail: The Iconic 4-Day Trek to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail is the most famous trek in South America—and for good reason. This ancient stone pathway, built by the Incas themselves, winds through mountain passes, cloud forests, and archaeological sites before arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at sunrise. It's the only route that enters the citadel on foot, creating an arrival moment that can't be replicated by train or bus.
Day 1: KM82 to Wayllabamba
A gentle introduction following the Urubamba River. You'll pass the Llactapata ruins and gradually gain elevation through farmland and hamlets. Camp around 3,000m.
Day 2: Dead Woman's Pass
The toughest day. Climb to 4,215m (13,828 ft) at Dead Woman's Pass, the trail's highest point. Stunning Andean vistas reward the effort. Descend to Pacaymayo camp.
Day 3: Cloud Forest & Ruins
Cross two more passes while exploring Runkurakay and Sayacmarca ruins. Descend into cloud forest and reach spectacular Wiñay Wayna—terraced ruins overlooking deep valleys.
Day 4: Sun Gate to Machu Picchu
Pre-dawn departure to reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) as first light illuminates Machu Picchu below. This is the moment you've been working toward. Guided citadel tour follows.
Why the Inca Trail?
Beyond prestige, the trail offers unparalleled access to lesser-known Inca sites you can only see on foot. You'll walk the same stones Inca messengers once traversed, pass through hand-carved tunnels, and experience the journey as a progression from wilderness to wonder. The sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate is genuinely emotional—a payoff for days of effort.
Permit Reality
The Peruvian government limits permits to 500 people per day (including guides and porters), and they sell out months in advance—sometimes 4–6 months for peak season. Once you commit to specific dates, there's no flexibility. Book early or have backup dates ready.
What's Included
Government Inca Trail permit, professional guide, porter support for group gear and your duffel (weight limits apply), all camping equipment except personal sleeping bag, meals on trail, first-aid kit with oxygen, Machu Picchu entry, bus down from ruins, train to Cusco, transfers.
Fitness & Packing
Require ability to hike 6–9 hours daily with sustained ascents on uneven stone steps. Train beforehand with loaded day pack. Pack list: broken-in boots, trekking poles, rain gear, warm layers (temps drop at night), sun protection, personal medications, and headlamp. You'll carry only a daypack while hiking.
Seasonality
Best: April through October (dry season). The trail typically closes all of February for maintenance. November to March brings rain and muddy conditions. Shoulder months (April, May, September, October) offer fewer crowds and decent weather.

Important: Spend at least 2 nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the Inca Trail. The altitude, combined with physical exertion, makes acclimatization non-negotiable. Add 1 post-trek night in Cusco for recovery before long travel days.
The Inca Trail isn't just a hike—it's a pilgrimage. You'll bond with fellow trekkers, gain profound appreciation for Inca engineering, and push your limits. When you finally step through the Sun Gate and see Machu Picchu glowing in the dawn light, you'll understand why this trail holds near-mythical status among travelers worldwide.
Essential Trip Details & Packing Guide
Altitude & Acclimatization Strategy
Our itineraries build altitude gradually: Lima (sea level) → Sacred Valley (2,800m) → Machu Picchu (2,430m) → Cusco (3,400m). This progression gives your body time to adjust and minimizes altitude sickness risk. Upon arrival at any high-altitude destination, avoid alcohol, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and resist the urge to over-exert yourself the first day. Coca tea (legal and traditional) helps some travelers. Most people experience mild breathlessness or a slight headache—both normal. Serious symptoms are rare with gradual ascent.
Health & Safety Protocols
All our guides carry comprehensive first-aid kits and portable oxygen. We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking if you're doing Salkantay or the Inca Trail. Consult your doctor about altitude medication (Diamox) if you have concerns. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended if visiting the Amazon, though not required for highlands-only itineraries. Tap water is not drinkable; stick to bottled or filtered water provided by hotels and guides.
What to Pack for Peru
Clothing Essentials
  • Broken-in hiking boots or shoes
  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Fleece or down jacket (nights are cold)
  • Rain jacket and rain pants
  • Sun hat and warm beanie
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Quick-dry pants/shorts
  • Comfortable walking shoes for cities
Gear & Accessories
  • Day pack (20–30L) with rain cover
  • Refillable water bottle (1L+)
  • Trekking poles (for trails)
  • Sunglasses (high-UV protection)
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Camera and extra memory cards
  • Portable charger/power bank
Documents & Misc.
  • Passport (6 months validity)
  • Printed itinerary & hotel info
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Cash (soles & small USD bills)
  • Credit cards (Visa widely accepted)
  • Personal medications
  • Small first-aid kit
  • Snacks for long travel days
Hotel Tiers Explained
Premium: Luxury properties with upscale amenities, concierge service, spas, and prime locations. Think boutique elegance with international standards. Boutique: Characterful smaller hotels emphasizing local design, personal service, and authentic atmosphere—comfortable without being over-the-top.
Train Travel Tips
Book river-view seats on the left side (outbound from Ollantaytambo) for the best scenery. Vistadome trains offer better visibility than Expedition class. The Hiram Bingham luxury train includes gourmet meals, bar service, and live music—splurge-worthy for special occasions. Luggage restrictions apply: one carry-on bag per person.
Connectivity & Communication
WiFi is available in most hotels and restaurants in cities, but expect limited or no signal on trains and treks. Download offline maps and crucial documents before departure. WhatsApp works well for in-country communication. We'll provide emergency contact numbers that work 24/7.

Currency & Tipping: Peru's currency is the sol (PEN), though USD is accepted in tourist areas. Bring small bills for tips. Standard gratuities: $10–15/day per guide, $5–10/day per driver, 10% in restaurants if service isn't included. For multi-day treks, budget $50–100 total for guide and porter teams.
Every trip to Peru is unique, shaped by your interests, fitness level, and travel style. Whether you choose the comprehensive highlights tour, challenge yourself on a mountain trek, or combine highlands with jungle, these itineraries provide flexible frameworks that we'll customize to your specific needs. The magic of Peru lies not just in checking off Machu Picchu, but in the journey—the people you meet, the foods you taste, the landscapes that take your breath away (sometimes literally), and the stories you'll tell for years to come.