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Embark on an exhilarating 8-day adventure through the heart of Peru, where ancient traditions, stunning landscapes, and thrilling hikes await you. Your journey begins in Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, where you’ll explore the city’s rich history, world-class cuisine, and bustling culture. Next, head to the picturesque city of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, and prepare to embark on a series of unforgettable treks. Visit the stunning Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), known for its vibrant, multicolored slopes that seem to defy nature. You’ll also explore the serene beauty of Humantay Lake, nestled in the Andes, with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. The adventure culminates with the Salkantay Pass, a challenging yet rewarding trek that takes you through rugged Andean landscapes and offers panoramic views from one of the highest points in the region. This journey is the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure, providing memories that will last a lifetime.
8 Days 7 Nights
8 days
Moderate
4217 m.s.n.m
Trekking Nature & Culture
Small Group 10ppl Max
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure through Peru, starting in Lima, where you’ll explore its vibrant culture and rich history. Then, head to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and trek to Rainbow Mountain, known for its vibrant, multicolored slopes. Explore the stunning Humantay Lake with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic peaks. Finally, challenge yourself with the Salkantay Pass trek, offering panoramic views of the Andean mountains, glaciers, and valleys, before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.
Arrive in Lima and transfer to your hotel. If arriving during the day, your hotel will be in the neighborhood of Miraflores, with good shopping and restaurants, and you’ll have an included city tour in the afternoon. If arriving late at night, you’ll be close to the airport for a bit more to sleep before your next day’s flight.
Upon arrival at Cusco Airport. Reception and transportation to the Hotel where you will receive an aromatic coca tea to stimulate for the height will have a free morning to rest also we suggest you have a light lunch in either your hotel or in one of the surrounded; in the afternoon we will depart on a City tour (entrance to the archaeological centers and museums including) we will visit the Main Square, Cathedral, the Koricancha (temple of the sun) and in addition we will make a route bordering archaeological centers like Sacsayhuaman Fortress, Q’enko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, the tour finishes 6:30 pm approximately at the main square in order you can take dinner in one of the exquisite restaurants in the area, then overnight. (No meals included)
First, breakfast. You will be picked up at 8:15 am. In this Full-day excursion to the Urubamba Valley you’ll visit: the colorful craft market in Pisac where a mixture of color and tradition, it is also a good opportunity to try our bargain skills to purchase their hand-made souvenirs. The Valley has a distance of 31 km (19 miles) from Cusco, and an altitude of 2,970 m (9,700 ft), Pisac is located at the entrance of the Sacred Valley and is followed by Ollantaytambo. The narrow streets of Ollantaytambo, along with their channels that have not varied from the time of the Incas, evoke their ancestral inheritance, lunch in a typical restaurant and after we explore Ollantaytambo, we’ll take the train at Ollantaytambo train station 2 hours to get Aguas Calientes where we do overnight.
Early breakfast and then we take the first bus at 5:30 am to be at Machupicchu at 6:00 am we get our entrance fee to climb huaynapicchu mountain (Only 25 minute’s ride by bus) where you will get a guided tour (2 hours) then free time to explore and climb huaynapicchu mountain and after you have enjoyed the lost city of Machupicchu, we will go down to the Aguas Calientes town to return to Ollantaytambo and then we will take a bus back to Cusco. and then transfer to your accommodation (B, L).
We will pick you up early from your Cusco hotel and set out on a drive through the South Valley. The drive to the trailhead at Quesiuno (4,326 m / 14,189 ft) is 3 hours long. Once we reach the Inkintuyoc bridge, we will have a fueling continental breakfast.
We then start off on our hike, following a lovely stream. You will be immediately surprised by the liliteralerds of alpacas and llamas. We will have consistent views of the Ausangate Mountain. We will hike through villages and interact with the local residents. We will stop for a deluxe box lunch along the trail.
Back on the trail, we encounter more of the traditional elements of this trek. This includes potato fields and unique fauna. We have the prospect of seeing chinchillas and vicunas. Vicunas are the only non-domesticated animal of the llama family in Peru. Many red mountains are also a highlight of this portion of the hike.
After a total hike of approximately 5 hours, we finally reach our destination, what we came to see….the Rainbow Mountains (5,020 m / 16,466 ft). After getting over the shock of their beauty, you will have time to explore the area. You will have time to take pictures and soak in the environment. We will spend approximately 30 minutes at the top.
At this point, it is time to go back down. We hike downhill the way we came. The hike will take 4 to 5 hours. Our private van will be waiting for us when we return.
We will embark on the 3-hour drive back to Cusco and drop you off at your Cusco hotel. The approximate arrival time is between 5 and 6 PM.
Meals: Continental Breakfast / Box lunch
Lowest Elevation: 4,326 m / 14,189 ft
Highest Elevation: 5,020 m / 16,466 ft
Distance to walk: 15 km / 9 ¼ miles
Approximate walking time: 5 to 6 hours up; 4 to 5 hours down
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
We pick you up from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. to drive for about 2 and half hours to Mollepata where we stop to have breakfast after we will keep driving to challacancha where we start hiking as soon as we are at challacancha the cook and the horseman will pack all the camping equipment and cooking stuff and we start hiking the first 25 minutes will be a little bit uphill to get the Water Channel where we will have a nice place with panoramic views of beautiful snow-capped mountains (Humantay; 4120m/13500ft and Salkantay; 6271m/20575ft) – just the start! We will begin our Salkantay trek towards Soraypampa our first Salkantay Trek camping spot (3800 m/11750ft; the highest and coldest campsite of the trip) we will be very close to the second highest Salkantay snow-capped -mountain of Cusco. Then after Lunch we will go to Humantay Lake and explore around and then we will walk down to our best campsite in soraypampa.
First Day: Total distance: 15 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (approx.)
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (approx.)
After having our Salkantay Trek breakfast we start walking at about 6:30 am because this day will take us 4 hours uphill to get to the highest point of the Salkantay Trek (4650m/15200ft) located halfway between 2 huge mountains; Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left. From the pass, the views of the 2 snow-capped mountains are incredible. There is a possibility of snow here. After a rest and getting a group picture, we will be back on the same path to Soraypampa where have lunch and relax then after we will take the bus back to Cusco.
Second Day: Total distance: 11 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 5 – 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (approx.)
Breakfast and according to time, transportation will be provided to go to the airport
Add on the Nazca Lines, the Amazon Rainforest, Colca Canyon, and other extension tours or treks. Let us know.
Domestic Airfares
Hotel Nights & Sky Lodges Domes ( breakfast included ) (Lodging)
– CUSCO: 04 nights of Sky Lodge Domes accommodation
– AGUAS CALIENTES: 01 night Hotel
– LIMA: 01-night Hotel
– Lima Tours: / City Tour
Lima Tour: Includes Tourist bus & English Guide
– Cusco Tours: / City Tour & Sacred Valley
City Tour: Includes Tourist bus & English Guide (Tourist Attractions to see: Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay)
Sacred Valley of the Incas (Awanacancha, Pisaq, Ollantaytambo & Chincheros)
– Machu Picchu Tours: /
Tour Includes: Tourist Tourist Train round trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, 01 Night overnight in Aguas Calientes, Bus Up & Down to Machupicchu, English Guide
– Rainbow Mountain – Salkantay Trek & Humantay Lake Tours: Includes Tourist bus, English Guide, Meals, Sky Lodge and Hike to Rainbow Mountain & Humantay Lake
– Transfers:
Private Lima & Cuzco Airport Transfers
All Transfers Hotel Terminal/Airport Transfers
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t Cancel your Trip !!!
We want you to have a Memorable Lifetime Experience Trip!
Double Room, Matrimonial (Twin Beds Room) Occupancy.
Prices shown Below are per person, based on Twin bedroom occupancy and in US$ Dollars.
(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 16 Persons (Maximum)
Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Person Minimum)
If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco.
Whilst we expect that the tour will run as per the itinerary, participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes being necessary subject to local conditions eg. strikes and natural disaster these changes may be at the discretion of your tour company.
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
Pre-Trip & Planning
How far in advance should I book this adventure?
It is recommended to book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for stays in the Sky Lodge Domes and permits for the Salkantay Trek.
What is the best time to go on this adventure?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is ideal for trekking.
Do I need a visa to visit Peru?
Most travelers from North America and Europe do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Be sure to check the specific visa requirements for your country.
What is the currency used in Peru?
The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN), but U.S. dollars are also accepted in most tourist areas.
Is travel insurance required?
Yes, it’s strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trekking, and trip cancellations.
Should I speak Spanish?
While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing basic Spanish will help, especially in remote locations.
What vaccinations do I need for Peru?
It’s recommended to get vaccines for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (if visiting the Amazon). Always consult your doctor before travel.
How do I get to Lima and Cusco?
You can fly into Lima (via international flights) and then take a domestic flight to Cusco (1 hour). Alternatively, buses are available but take around 20-24 hours.
What should I pack for the trek?
Essential items include trekking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, water bottle, and personal items.
Can I leave luggage at the hotel during the trek?
Yes, most hotels in Cusco offer luggage storage for your extra belongings while you embark on the trek.
Lima & Cusco
What is there to do in Lima?
Explore Lima’s historic center, San Francisco Monastery, Barranco district, and indulge in some of the world’s best Peruvian cuisine.
How long should I stay in Cusco before the trek?
It’s recommended to stay at least 2-3 days to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
What are the best attractions in Cusco?
Visit iconic sites like Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha, Plaza de Armas, and the nearby Sacred Valley.
Is Cusco safe for tourists?
Yes, Cusco is generally safe for tourists. Always take standard precautions and avoid isolated areas at night.
Do I need to worry about altitude sickness in Cusco?
Cusco is at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), so acclimatization is important. Drink plenty of water and take it easy for the first couple of days.
What is the weather like in Cusco?
Cusco has a temperate climate, with warm days and cooler nights, especially in the highlands. It can get cold in the evenings, especially during the dry season.
Can I book tours and activities in Cusco?
Yes, Cusco offers plenty of guided tours to explore Inca ruins, local culture, and the Sacred Valley.
Trekking Highlights
What is the Sky Lodge?
The Sky Lodge is a unique lodging experience in transparent pods that are suspended high on a cliffside in the Sacred Valley, offering stunning views and an unforgettable experience.
How long is the trek to Rainbow Mountain?
The trek to Rainbow Mountain takes about 3-4 hours (round trip), with an elevation gain of around 500 meters.
What’s the highest point of the Rainbow Mountain trek?
The highest point of the Rainbow Mountain trek is 5,020 meters (16,466 feet), so it’s important to be properly acclimatized.
How difficult is the trek to Rainbow Mountain?
The trek is considered moderate and can be challenging due to the high altitude, so it’s essential to acclimatize first.
How long does it take to hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike to Humantay Lake takes around 2-3 hours one way, with an elevation gain of around 400 meters.
What is the altitude of Humantay Lake?
Humantay Lake is located at about 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level, so it’s important to adjust to the altitude beforehand.
What should I pack for the Salkantay Trek?
Essentials include warm clothing, rain gear, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, and snacks. Most trekking companies provide meals and camping gear.
What is the highest point on the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Pass reaches an altitude of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet), offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
How difficult is the Salkantay Trek?
The Salkantay Trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude and rugged terrain. It requires good physical fitness.
What is the accommodation like on the trek?
Accommodation consists of camping in comfortable tents. At the Sky Lodge, you’ll sleep in transparent domes for a unique experience.
Sky Lodge Domes
How do I get to the Sky Lodge Domes?
You’ll be guided to the Sky Lodge by hiking
What are the Sky Lodge Domes?
The Sky Lodge Domes are geodesic, weatherproof structures designed for comfort and panoramic views. Each dome includes a queen-size bed, wood-burning stove, and large windows to enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery. They are situated at an altitude of approximately 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) in Soraypampa, offering a serene and private camping experience.
Trekking Highlights
Accommodation and Amenities
Each dome is equipped with:
Activities and Services
Guests can enjoy:
Traveler2024-02-28Verified Salkantay survivors We did the 5 days-salkantay trek to Machupicchu uin the rain season february, everything was awe-some, food, landscapes, tour services, the amazing guide Fernando, this guys Is actually amazing i recommend to him to every-body Spencer O2024-02-28Verified 5 Day Salkantay Hike to Machu Picchu It was a great time. Really enjoyed the experience with friends, something to cherish for the rest of my life. If you go I highly recommend you ask for Fernando. He was our guide for the entire trip. Extremely knowledgeable and made the experience that much more memorable. He started the trip as a guide and by the end became a friend, the time you spend on the trek, you really want someone who fits with your group and I can't imagine a better person who could fit better in anyone's group. As well, the trek itself was difficult but very enjoyable, something to push yourself to your limits. Every day was extremely rewarding, not to mention the hot springs was well worth it. Ted2024-02-24Verified Best Peru Experience Had an amazing trip. Fernando the tour guide was the highlight, and made our experience fantastic. I would recommend the trip simply for the quality of the guide. Tyrell T2024-01-27Verified Spectacular hike We had the opportunity to do the Inca trail to Machu Picchu with (QUECHUA EXPEDITIONS). Fantastic and absolutely recommended. They offer a very interesting package both for the price and for the service. Our guide Fernando Illapa taught us a lot about Inca history and the Andean way of life. He and our cook were very attentive and cordial throughout the experience. Our food was amazing and the camping equipment in perfect condition. D r2024-01-27Verified an unforgettable experience It was a wonderful experience. From the beginning Wayra gave us all the information, always attentive and answering all our questions. During the trip we had Fernando Illapa as our guide. We must say that he is a great professional, thoroughly knowledgeable about the path and with a great sense of humor and a lot of patience, which made everything easier in the most demanding moments of the Inca trail. The accompanying team is very organized and I must say that the food exceeded our expectations. Dishes that could well be served in a restaurant and extremely abundant. We did the road with my husband and there were very difficult sections of great physical demand, but the impressive landscapes and discovering archaeological sites along the way make it worth it. We were also fortunate to have excellent travel companions. An unforgettable experience with the help of a professional team that paid attention to all the details. Agnieszka Z2024-01-25Verified A must in Peru The whole experience was amazing! The trek can be tough but it’s doable even for not super fit people. The views are breathtaking! Thanks a lot to our super nice guide Jose and amazing chef Armando who made the whole tour even better. T D2024-01-18Verified we would do it again The trip and itinerary that they organized for us was incredible! Very organized, excellent guide named Fernando Illapa, who made us feel at home. Very attentive, smiling and charismatic. Everything was a dream trip. We visited the mountain of seven colors, we did the 4-day Inca trail, we went to the Puerta del Sol, to MachuPicchu, wayna picchu, to the hot springs of Machupicchu town, gampling; Anyway, we did everything and it was an unforgettable trip. Zach S2024-01-18Verified Una muy buena experiencia, gracias Hay muchas opciones de trekking para el Camino Inka, ¡pero no busques más que aquí! Cada persona en la organización es amable, profesional y servicial. ¡Nuestro guía, Fernando, fue fantástico! Fue informativo, paciente y nos guió de manera experta a lo largo del hermoso Camino Inka a Machu Picchu sin un solo problema. ¡Tener un guía que hable perfecto inglés y español es extremadamente necesario y tiene la experiencia para hacer que tu experiencia sea inolvidable! Zach S2024-01-18Verified What an otherworldly experience. We had an amazing experiencies with a great team in the inka trail, in Cusco there are many trekking options for the Inka Trail, but look no further than here! Every person in the organization is friendly, professional and helpful. Our guide, Fernando, was fantastic! He was patient and expertly guided us along the beautiful Inka Trail to Machu Picchu without a single problem. Having a guide who speaks perfect English and Spanish is extremely necessary and has the experience to make your experience unforgettable! Rachel Z2024-01-13Verified INCREDIBLE!! This tour company is truly the best. They took amazing care of us ensuring that we had everything we needed and made sure to help provide what we forgot to bring. The guide - Fernando - was so kind and knowledgeable. If you’re looking to hike to Machu Picchu this is the place to book!!! I can’t recommend them enough we had and amazing time.
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