At a Glance
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Find connection to the ancient Incan people as you uncover the mysteries and culture of Peru in comfort and style. An enchanting 9-day lodge to lodge trek with porters and mules, this expert itinerary offers the best combination of scenery and comfort from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Soak up the breathtaking mountain vistas by day and unwind in hot tubs, great food and comfy beds at night. Traverse the Inca ruins from the famed Machu Picchu, Salkantay Pass and Sacred Valley on a discovery into the 'Lost City of The Incas’.
Your journey begins in Cusco with a hike to the Inca ruins of Q'enko. Savor stunning vistas of the Cusco Valley, Temple of the Moon and fortress-temple Sacsayhuamán with a local expert. Ascend to the high-altitude grasslands of Soraypampa with ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified
- 8 nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis in comfortable lodges
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio
- All hiking, activities and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- All luggage, airport, hotel transfers and shuttle transfers
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre trip information
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Meet your leaders at 9 a.m. in the courtyard of Inkaterra La Casona, located at Plaza Las Nazarenas 211 in Cusco, Peru. Arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's hike. Since most of our activities take place at or near 11,000 feet, we highly recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least one full day before the trip starts to become better acclimated to the elevation; arriving any later may keep you from fully enjoying our planned activities. Begin with a short shuttle into the hills outside of Cusco to the Tambomachay ruins. Embark on a mostly downhill hike to assist you in adjusting to Peru’s high elevation while capturing sweeping views of Cusco Valley. Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing the hike to the Temple of the Moon, an ancient religious complex where burials and ceremonial practices once took place. Delve deeper into the ruins calling into Q'enko, a ritual site marked with rock carvings. You’ll arrive at the impressive Sacsayhuaman, a landmark just above Cusco, offering a breathtaking view of the city and boasts some of the most complex massive stones in the world. Be captivated at by the view overlooking Cusco where this extraordinary fortress of massive stone blocks was once used for religious and military purposes. This afternoon, you will have the opportunity to view Pre-Columbian Art, providing you with an introduction to a mysterious art form that was practiced in ancient Peru. The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art in Cusco, also known as MAP Cusco, provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to get a more profound comprehension of the legendary inventive spirit of the Incas. Afterward, we reassemble for an incredible dinner featuring regional specialties. |
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You'll will stay in a 16th century manor house and the first Relais & Châteaux property in Peru, nestled between the San Blas arts neighbourhood and Cusco's lively main square. Unwind in the picturesque Spanish courtyard, savour a refreshing drink by the bar or cosy up by the fireplace. Tonight, gather together for an exquisite dinning affair bursting local flavours. |
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Level 3, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 305m (1000ft) Enjoy breakfast before a bus shuttle to the trailhead to start our ascent of Machu Picchu. The Inca ruins of Killarumiyoc, one of the Incas' most venerated deities known as "mother quilla," predate the village of Mollepata, which is located above 9,100 feet. Hike the Soraypampa Trek from Challacancha's trailhead traversing breathtaking Peruvian flora and fauna, including tropical jungles, majestic snow-capped mountains, beautiful valleys, waterfalls, and clouded forests. It is also less crowded than the Inca Trail which means more time to enjoy the views. When we get to Soraypampa, we'll take a trip up to Humantay Lake, which features breathtaking vistas; if the weather is good, we might even get a glimpse of the towering Salkantay and Humantay mountains. Along the way, enjoy lunch surrounded by a beautiful view of the valley. |
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Call into the Salkantay Lodge, where you will find more to enjoy than just opulent accommodations and an incredible hike. In the Land of the Incas, you will have the opportunity to witness some of the most unique and intriguing species of flora and fauna, as well as ancient history, while travelling in the company of new friends and people with similar interests. After you have arrived, the friendly staff will give you a kind greeting before showing you to your rooms and allowing you some time to freshen up. Located at 11,800 feet, this stylish mountain lodge offers snow-capped views of Salkantay, the highest peak in the region. It is possible to view the Milky Way, a pristine sky that is full of stars, after an amazing dinner if the night is clear. Unwind in the hot tub boasting sweeping views of towering glacier mountains or soothe the muscles with a spa treatment (at own expense). |
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Level 3, Approx. 6.4km (4 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 365m (1200ft) Enjoy a full day exploring and acclimatizing in preparation for the long trek over the Salkantay Pass tomorrow. You will start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a short hike to a glacial lake, located at the base of Humantay Mountain, in Soraypampa. After an easy stretch, your legs warm up ready for a steady climb to the top of the mountain overlooking the lake and mountains surrounding it. During your journey, keep an eye out for condors, colossal and ferocious birds that ancient Andean people revered. You will spend the afternoon relaxing at Salkantay Lodge after finishing a late lunch. Unwind to the luxuries of the lodge. Soaking in the hot tub, indulge in a massage, embark on a guided horseback ride, or merely stroll the grounds (massage and horseback at own expense). Alternatively, a good book and a warm cup of coca tea, which has been historically used by indigenous Andean tribes to ease altitude sickness, can be enjoyed by sitting at the fireplace. This evening, savour a delicious dinner in Salkantay's dining room prepared by our personal chef and taste pisco sours, the country's national drink. |
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Level 5, Approx. 12km (7 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 793m (2600ft), Elevation loss: 732m (2400ft) Gear up early for a thrilling high-altitude hike to Huayraccmachay via Salkantay Pass. After fueling up on breakfast, begin climbing up the Río Blanco’s Valley, skirting the vaulting Humantay Peak. Take advantage of multiple pampas, or open flat regions, where you may rest and refuel during the long morning trek up to the summit. Get to the top of the mountain, you'll pass expansive flatlands covered in boulders. These are remnants of the once-wide valley bisected by a fast-moving river. A series of switchbacks called "Seven Snakes'' marks the end of Humantay's spine and the start of Salkantay Pass. Look for condors flying over Humantay Peak as you head up the Rio Blanco Valley. Thousands of apachetas (little stone marks) that pilgrims leave at the pass as spiritual sacrifices to Pachamama (Mother Earth) for a successful trip and good health are seen there. Enjoy stunning views of the Vilcabamba Range at 15,190 feet, the highest point on the trail. A perfect trek taking you off the beaten track. The Vilcabamba mountain range has valleys, jungles, and mountains. The path that will lead you from the last capital of the Incas to the mysterious lost city of Machu Picchu will be a fascinating experience for you! It's amazing how diverse the hiking is on Mount Salkantay's southern face and the best way to get into Huayraccmachay is to descend into it as soon as you are ready. Following a hot picnic lunch, you'll head down through bucolic rolling hills and marsh-like plateaus, followed by your final descent to Wayra Lodge. You'll stay at Machu Picchu's Wayra Lodge, nestled in a windswept valley beneath the majestic Humantay Mountain. The eco-friendly lodge has six private, heated rooms with private bathrooms and hot showers. Relax in the reading area, cozy up by the fireplace or indulge in the outdoor Jacuzzi for high altitude soaking. |
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Level 4, Approx. 10km (6 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 61m (200ft), Elevation loss: 1098m (3600ft) Huayraccmachay's peacefulness will be replaced by the bustle of the valley below today. Begin your descent as you leave the resort and bid farewell to the snow-covered mountaintops. After descending, you'll notice a dramatic shift in the vegetation. The cloud forest, a natural marvel of the world but also one of the most threatened, will be the focus of our excursion. You'll find all kinds of wildlife and gorgeous blooms in the Ceja de la Selva, including frog-eating Hummingbird Parrots and Orchid Asters (or "eyebrow of the jungle"). A beautiful river valley greets you near the end of the hike, from where we will arrive at Colpa Lodge, located just up the mountain at the confluence of the Santa Teresa, Chalan and Totora rivers, which are fed by snowmelt from the mountains. During lunch, we are fortunate enough to have a traditional pachamanca, a dish typical of the Andes that is prepared in a huge pit covered with hot rocks and soil. For those willing, try -the famous cuy (guinea pig), a local delicacy. The remainder of your day can be spent exploring your new surroundings, curling up next to the fire or relaxing in the outdoor hot tub with sublime valley views, whatever you desire. This evening, savor Peruvian and international-inspired cuisine. |
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TWO HIKING OPTIONS: As you put on your boots this morning you can look forward to a trek through an incredible portion of the Santa Teresa River Valley. Follow the undulating route through a variety of wild highland landscapes to the river, which you'll cross, and then continue along the mountainside. Make your way over bridges, past waterfalls and through streams. Enjoy a delicious catered meal as you travel to our shuttle station & hop in the van to be whisked to our next lodge. If you're feeling especially energetic and up to an additional challenge, you can forgo the lift and continue on foot. Hike an additional hour and a half down a dirt road through the town of Playa, famed for its coffee, fruit and vegetable production. Spend time, delighting your tastebuds with specialties like giant avocados and exotic granadilla fruit. Whether you travel these few miles by foot or vehicle, we'll all hike the last half-mile on a restored ancient Inca trail that leads up to the serene Lucma Lodge, nestled amid coffee plants and banana, avocado and eucalyptus trees. Note: In the months between November and March, please be prepared for showers and possible route changes on this day due to wet trail conditions. |
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Level 4, Approx. 12km (7 miles), 2 to 4 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 671m (2200ft), Elevation loss: 610m (2000ft) We plan to get up early today in order to avoid the oppressive heat. After a hearty breakfast, the long ascent to Llactapata Pass awaits. After we reach the pass, the trail descends to a spectacular vantage point offering you your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. Few visitors get to see this spectacular vista, which features views of both Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu (Old Mountain and Young Mountain). On the way to the start of the Inca Trail, we will also see the recently restored terraced Llactapata ruins. Llactapata was oncea thriving Inca farming community, but during the retreat of Manco Inca Yupanqui, the village was destroyed to deter Spanish conquistadors from approaching. In 1911, Machu Picchu was rediscovered after being hidden again for over a hundred years due to the sacrifices of the village which prevented the Spaniards from discovering the Inca Trail. With a view to Machu Picchu in the background, we take a break for lunch in Llactapata where we will eat a variety of local dishes including avocados, potatoes and trout. Continue to the final steep descent to the Vilcanota River, passing through thick bamboo woods, coffee plantations, and fruit orchards. |
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The Hidroelectrica Station is the point where you will end your hike, embark on a scenic train ride that will take us to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) and the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, which will be your home for the next two days. The property has 12 acres of great natural beauty, with 214 bird species registered, including the golden-headed quetzal and the renowned Andean cock-of-the-rock, as well as the world's largest native orchid collection (372 species). This evening, you can unwind at the hotel or venture into town to peruse stores and markets. Dine at your leisure in the hotel restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Vilcanota River and teaches the secrets of Peruvian cuisine with a modern touch. |
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Level 4, Approx. 3.21km (2 miles), 2 to 3 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 610m (2000ft), Elevation loss: 610m (2000ft) Today is your full day to explore the mysteries of Machu Picchu! If you booked your trip early enough to secure a permit to hike the Machu Picchu Mountain trail inside the ruins, you can opt for an early breakfast before heading up to the trail. This stair-stepping journey takes you to a viewpoint towering above the ruins—a hike that makes for incredible photo opportunities and a real test of endurance! The view of Machu Picchu from the citadel is an iconic postcard view of the town, a mystical vision of light and shadow on a canvas of six shadows. As the mystical site of Machu Picchu was discovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham, many sacred temples are located at the site and there are many theories as to why the great emperor Pachacutec created this wonder of the world. There is an option of actually enjoying a relaxing morning at the hotel if you do not have a permit or you do not wish to hike. Sit down to breakfast at the hotel and spend the morning as you wish, perhaps shopping for souvenirs at the artisan market in the town, relaxing back at the hotel, or pampering yourself by getting a spa treatment. |
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Later this afternoon, board the bus and meet the rest of the group for lunch at the Belmond Tinkuy restaurant near the entrance to the ruins for a delicious treat of local delicacies. After lunch, we spend the afternoon walking through the ruins and learning about the history of this incredible site. As you admire painstakingly restored masonry, relish incredible views and explore highlights (including the Inca Drawbridge), a local expert provides insight into the astrological designs created by the sunworshipping Inca, the exquisite stonework of the temples and other structures, and the fascinating story of Machu Picchu's discovery. After our visit, we take the bus back to town and then take the short walk to our hotel. Later we gather for a final dinner together, toasting our memorable journey and swapping stories of the week's adventures. |
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Following a leisurely breakfast, you may wish to experience a nature walk around the hotel grounds with a naturalist, while learning about the orchids, birds, and tea plantations that live around the area. The option of a leisurely breakfast is also available for those who do not wish to proceed with the hike before we board the train for one last scenic ride through the Sacred Valley passing the astounding 18,600 feet Mount Veronica. When we get to Ollantaytambo, we take a bus to get the rest of the way back to Cusco. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for group bookings and private departures. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Cusco, Peru
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Cusco. The closest major airport to Cusco, Peru is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport and is 5 km from the center of Cusco.
May to October is the dry season—and winter—in the Peruvian highlands, and days are generally pleasant and sunny. From November through April, Peru's rainy season, the area is wetter and greener. These months are still a great time to experience Peru, but please be prepared for showers and possible itinerary changes due to wet trail conditions. No matter what time of year, in this area you can experience all four seasons in a single day, so bringing high quality breathable rain gear is a must. Bring warmer clothing if your trip is in June, July or August; it’s been known to snow in Cusco during these months.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 3-5.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km (6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.