TRAILS OF THE ANDES

First steps in the Sacred Valley

After a private transfer to the airport, fly to Cusco, where your guide welcomes you for the onward journey into the Sacred Valley. Mountain scenery, cultivated fields and small Andean villages introduce a different rhythm of life along the way. Arrive at your hotel for a quiet afternoon surrounded by the valley's landscapes, with time to rest and adjust gently to the altitude before the walks ahead.

Pisac, a first walk above the valley

Explore the archaeological site of Pisac, where Inca terraces curve along the mountainside high above the Urubamba. A gentle walk with your guide opens up wide views across the valley, as the stories behind its terraces, settlements and enduring traditions come into focus. Continue down into the village to browse its market, where woven textiles, local crafts and regional produce fill the stalls. Return to your hotel with time to relax.

Andean paths, from Moray to Ollantaytambo

Today's walk connects some of the valley's most remarkable landscapes. Begin at the circular terraces of Moray, then follow countryside paths between fields and mountain views, tailored to your pace, towards the salt pans of Maras, where thousands of pools follow the contours of the slope. Continue to Ollantaytambo to explore its monumental archaeological site, then wander through streets where Inca stonework and town planning remain part of everyday life. Return to your hotel to rest ahead of the Inca Trail.

The Inca Trail, to the Sun Gate

An early transfer takes you to the station for the train journey to the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. With your private guide, follow original stone paths through lush cloud forest and mountain scenery, discovering archaeological sites along the way. Pause at Wiñay Wayna, where graceful terraces cascade down the mountainside, before the final climb to Intipunku, the Sun Gate. Here, Machu Picchu unfolds below for the first time: an arrival made all the more meaningful by the path you have walked.

Descend from the Sun Gate into the sanctuary for a first visit along the designated route for Inca Trail arrivals, taking in its panoramic perspectives as your guide introduces the site and its setting. Afterwards, take the bus down to Machu Picchu Pueblo and settle into your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Machu Picchu, a closer look

After breakfast, return by bus to Machu Picchu for a second guided visit along a different circuit, arranged to complement yesterday's arrival through the Sun Gate. Explore other sectors of the sanctuary and discover more of its architecture, its history and the details that reveal the lives of those who lived here. Together, the two visits offer a richer appreciation of Machu Picchu and its place in the Andean landscape. In the afternoon, board your train back through the valley, where private transport meets you for the onward journey to Cusco.

Cusco, on foot through its stone streets

Discover Cusco on foot with your guide, following historic streets, squares and landmarks where Inca foundations and colonial architecture reveal the layers of the former Inca capital. Along the way, the rhythm of everyday life shows how closely the city's past remains woven into its present. The afternoon is yours at leisure: browse a gallery, linger over coffee or simply return to the comfort of your hotel.

Humantay, the trail to a turquoise lake

Set out early for Soraypampa, where your walk to Humantay Lake begins at the foot of the snow-capped Salkantay range. With your private guide, ascend through open mountain landscapes, pausing along the way to rest and take in the surroundings. At the lake, enjoy time beside its turquoise water, framed by glaciers and dramatic peaks: one of the most striking settings in the Andes. After your descent, return by private transport to Cusco.

Cusco, rest after the trails

Enjoy a day without a fixed agenda. Return to a favourite corner of the city, discover artisan workshops and independent boutiques, or simply rest after your days on the trails. Should you wish, we can arrange a culinary or wellness experience around your interests.

Where the trail continues

At the agreed time, your private transfer takes you to Cusco Airport for your flight to Lima or your next destination, bringing this journey of ancient paths, encounters and mountain landscapes to a close.