Challenge of the Incas 15 days

On this day you will discover the wonderful Sacred Valley of the Incas. Also known as the Vilcanota Valley.

We will start the day by visiting the Pisaq archaeological complex located on top of a mountain. This wonderful place is made up of groups of terraces and architectural structures scattered across its slopes and high up on the mountain. A wonderful mix of landscape and buildings. Next we will go to the crafts market where you can appreciate a wide variety of works from ancient times.

We will pass through Urubamba where we will take a lunch break. We will taste typical Peruvian cuisine with a variety of dishes including salads, soups, hot dishes, the famous ceviche and delicious desserts.

After lunch, we will visit the architectural complex of Ollantaytambo, a living settlement built to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it against possible invaders. We will have the opportunity to walk through its streets and get a clearer idea of ​​what this military, religious and cultural center was like during the Inca Empire.

After the visit, we will continue the journey to Chinchero, where we will stop to visit a textile art center, where they can introduce us to the practice of textiles that still exists since the time of the Incas. Finally, we will return to Cusco, where we will drop you off at your hotel.

IMPORTANT TIPS

The return to Cusco will be around 2:30 p.m., therefore, you will have the afternoon free to take advantage of Cusco.

Do not miss the opportunity to meet the Qosqo Center for Native Art, a music and dance show typical of the region, it is a real show. This show starts at 6:00 p.m., but we suggest you arrive at least 40 minutes before the queue, as it is a busy place. If you have included in your package the general tourist ticket, you will have free access to this beautiful event. Entrance Ticket: S / 25.00 per person.

Overnight: Hotel in  Cusco

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

According to the agreed time, our guide will take our transport to your hotel to the starting point of the bicycle trip, Chancadora, located close to the archaeological complex of Chinchero (3873m above sea level) where we will prepare all the equipment to begin our adventure on two wheels. We will visit Laguna Huaypo, passing along dirt roads until we reach Cruzpata.

We’ll make a detour and take a famous Inca path to the Moray archaeological zone, where we’ll take a guided tour.

We will continue descending and pass through the community of Maras.

We will descend to Salineras, an important place where salt is extracted by hand.  Here we will have a guided tour.

At the end of this journey, we will take our transport to return to the city of Cusco.

IMPORTANT TIPS

Bring extra money, as we will go through several traditional markets where you will probably want to bring some souvenirs

Overnight : Hotel  in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

At the agreed time, our transport will pick you up at your hotel to transfer us to the town of Piscacucho (2 650 masl), also known as Kilometer 82 , where the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu passes. 

We will begin our walk from the checkpoint walking along the left bank of the Urubamba River that flows northwest of the Sacred Valley. After passing through some flat terraces, we will arrive in Miskay (2 800 meters above sea level) and then see the Inca City of Patallacta (2 750 meters above sea level).

We will continue our trek along the path of the valley created by the Kusichaca River , we will gradually climb until we reach our first camp, Ayapata ( Yuncachimpa ) (3 100 masl). Here we can enjoy the most spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the diversity of flora and fauna found in this place.    

On the opposite side of the Urubamba River we can see the impressive Veronica Snow (5,832 meters above sea level).

• Difficulty level:  moderate
• Walking time:  6-7 hrs
• Total distance:  11 km

Overnight : Camp in Ayapata

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

After a good breakfast, we will continue our walk (Considered the day of greatest difficulty). We will walk along narrow and steep trails (9 km).

Along the way, the landscape changes as we ascend (high and dry land with little vegetation). 

We will reach the top of the mountain known as Warmiwañusca (Passage of the Dead Woman). We will observe llamas and domestic alpacas that graze on the Ichu (One of the few plants that grow at this height). We will pass through a forest inhabited by various kinds of animals such as sparrows, finches (local birds) and Andean bears. 

We will descend to the Pacaymayu Valley (3 600 meters above sea level) where we will have lunch after 06 hours of walking. 

After lunch and a short break, we will continue our walk (6 km), which in the first part will be a climb in which we will pass through the incredible archaeological complex of Runkuracay (3,970 masl) and then through the magnificent archaeological complex of Sayacmarca (3 650 masl).

Finally we will arrive at our camp called Chaquicocha. 

• Difficulty level:  difficult 
• Walking time:  8-9 hrs
• Total distance:  15 km

Overnight : Camp in Chaquicocha

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This day will be unforgettable because of the large number of archeological sites that we will visit.                

Accompanied by our guide we will visit the archaeological complexes of the previous day. We will visit Runkuracay , which is a small structure similar to a Watchtower, we will enter the cloud forest and visit Sayacmarca a beautiful complex consisting of a semicircular building with different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios and irrigation canals.

Continuing our walk, we will pass through an Inca tunnel and we will arrive at one of the most complete and preserved archaeological complexes and it is located at the highest point of the mountain, Phuyupatamarca which means: “The cloud over the city” where we can observe a sophisticated complex Composed of water fountains with a solid foundation and stunning views of the Urubamba River.

We will continue now down to Wiñayhuayna (2,700 meters above sea level). On this site we will find a country house with a restaurant, rooms with bathrooms and hot showers. Five minutes from the campsite is the archaeological complex of Wiñayhuayna , which is composed of an agricultural center with numerous religious and urban terraces.

• Difficulty level:  moderate 
• Walking time:  5-6 hrs
• Total distance:  10 km

Overnight : Camp in WiñayHuayna

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner

On this day we will wake up at 4:00 am to leave Wiñayhuayna at the indicated time. We will go up to Inti Punku (gate of the sun or sunrise). The tour will last approximately 1 hour. Afterwards, we will walk on the flat rocks on the edge of the mountain where we will be able to watch the sun rise over the city of Machupicchu. From Intipunku we will descend to Machupichu, arriving in approximately 40 minutes. Arriving at Machu Picchu, we will take a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours.  

Then we will descend to the town of Águas Calientes where we can visit the thermal baths to relax after 4 days of walking. Return to the town of Ollantaytambo by train. Next, we will board a bus to the city of Cusco. Estimated arrival time in Cusco: 10:30 pm.

• Difficulty level:  moderate – easy     
• Walking time:  2-3 hrs
• Total distance:  6 km

TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT

The visit to the citadel of Machu Picchu is one way and that having passed through a place can not be returned. In addition, there is no re-entry, if we leave the citadel we will not be able to re-enter. Re-entry is only possible if your ticket includes the Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain.

If you have included the Machu Picchu Mountain, the guided in the citadel of Machu Picchu will be 01h30m, so that you have enough time for the trek.

IMPORTANT TIPS

After returning from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, if the schedule allows it, we recommend visiting the Chávez Ballón Museum , which is the site museum of Machu Picchu, admission from 12:00 hrs is free; To enter you just have to present your valid passport.

We must take into account that in the low season and high season it will be necessary to wait in line to board the one-way bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu and return from Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes, as well as to board the return train from Aguas Calientes. Our guide will help you with recommendations to dose your hours in the best way.

THINGS FOR YOUR VISIT TO MACHU PICCHU TO BE MUCH INCREDIBLE

Request lunch at one of the best restaurants near the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu, Sanctuary Lodge . Just ask one of our consultants to make your purchase. It’s very easy (USD 45.00 per person)

Overnight : Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

On this day you will visit places in Cusco and its surroundings.

Overnight : Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast 

Early, at the pre-arranged time, our guide will collect you from your Cusco hotel to head out to Collasuyo, found in a Southern direction from the ancient Inca capital, Cusco. This formed part of the important “tawantinsuyo” (the 4 ancient regions of the Incas). Our first stop will be 2 hours out of Cusco, 78 km away, at the Paucarpata (Cusipata) community, where we will have a short rest to buy water, snacks, and enjoy a buffet breakfast. After which, we will continue for another hour along the highway until we arrive at our basecamp of Japura (Pitumarca). Here we will get ready for our ATV Rainbow Mountain, which is a gradual 1h30m (15km). Along the way, we will have the opportunity to see the impressive Glaciers, standing at a whopping 4925m. The distinctive varieties of South American camelids. We will arrive to Qosqopata spot where we will Walk for about 30m up to get to the Rainbow moutain.

On arrival at the magnificent Rainbow Mountain, you will have plenty of time to take photos and videos of this enigmatic, coloured mountain as well as the impressive surrounding countryside. We will then begin our descent back towards the base camp for approximately 1h 30m (15km). where our transport will be waiting to take us to the town of Paucarpata, where we will enjoy a well-deserved delicious lunch. After lunch we Will begin our journey back to Cusco City, arriving at 6pm approximately, where we will drop you off at your hotel.

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch tour

We will head out bright and early and the pre-arranged time, when we collect you from your hotel to begin our adventure. We will head out of Cusco in a North westerly direction. On the way, we will pass through a number of traditional villages, until we reach Limatambo. From here, we will begin an ascent until we reach the town of Mollepata, where we will stop for breakfast and where we will also return to for lunch. After breakfast, we will continue our journey in car to the village of Soraypampa and your guide will give you information about the flora and fauna, as well as the traditional customs of the area. On arrival, to Soraypampa, we will begin our hike and the guide will explain the correct way to trek through the mountains. He will provide a small snack and walking sticks to help you along the route. The hike takes approximately 2 hours, until we arrive at the stunning Humantay Lake where we can appreciate spectacular scenery and an impressive vantage point of the Humantay and Salkantay glaciers. After a short rest, we will return along the same Trail to Soraypampa, where our car will be waiting to take us back to Mollepata and where a delicious buffet lunch awaits us. We will then continue on our return journey to Cusco City.

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Early in the morning, we will collect you from your hotel to head to the bus terminal for our journey along the “Route of The Sun” along which, we will visit the most impressive sites between Cusco and Puno. Our first stop will be at the Temple of Andahuaylillas, where we will visit the famous 16th century church, known as “The Sistine chapel of The Americas” due to the massive number of religious paintings on the walls and roof. The church is home to an ornately decorated organ, with angels and surrounded by the prodigious murals painted by the famous artist, Tadeo Escalante. We will then continue along our way to the archaeological site of Raqchi, which was a temple built in honour to the pre-Inca deity, Wiracocha. Here we will be able witness remains of the Inca Civilization and the Wari Civilization. Our next stop will be at Sicuani, where we will enjoy a traditional lunch of the region. After lunch, we will head to “La Raya” which is the highest section of the journey to Puno, and marks the official border of Cusco and Puno. Here, we will make a brief stop to appreciate the magnificent views of the surrounding snow-caps.  Our final stop along the journey, will be at Pukara, where will learn all about the ancient civilization of the same name, who lived there. We will also visit the church in the village and the attached museum.  We will arrive at the City of Puno, early evening, where our transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel for the night.

Overnight: Hotel in Puno

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

At about 06:45 hrs, we will make the transfer from the Hotel to the Port. At approximately 07:15 hrs we will leave by boat ” Titicaca Express ” south of the island of Taquile , where we will arrive at a white sand beach paradise.

We will walk through spectacular Pre-Inca landscapes and meet local families, their crafts, their culture and their textile activities.

At approximately 11:00 a.m. we will arrive at the community of Santa María , in the Capacheca Llachón peninsula , where we will be introduced to a cultural experience, we will see their dances, traditions and we will be able to participate in an ancestral ceremony. Next, we will participate in the preparation of the ” Pachamanca “, which is a traditional way of cooking meat, fish and potatoes, where we will observe the different way of cooking in this town, with an underground oven.

For adventure lovers, optional to kayak along the coasts of Llachón .

We will depart from Santa María and at approximately 2:30 p.m. we will arrive at the island of Los Uros Titono , located in the Titicaca Lake Reserve, considered one of the last floating islands. The inhabitants of the islands of “Los Uros” are descendants of one of the oldest cultures in South America.

Optional ride on rafts of ” Totora “.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. we will be back to Puno, where we will leave you at your Hotel.

Overnight : Hotel in Puno

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

At an agreed time, our transport will stop at your hotel to continue to Juliaca airport. Upon your arrival at Lima airport, our team will wait for you to finally go to your hotel in Lima

Overnight: Hotel in Lima

Check In: ​​12:00 Check Out: 9:00 Am

Meals: Breakfast at hotel in Puno

NOTE: If your departure time is after check-out time, you can use the hotel’s common areas while you wait.

NOTE: If your arrival time in Lima is before check-in time, you can use the hotel’s common areas while you wait.

Free day to explore the beautiful capital of Perú. You can go shopping and also enjoy the rich cuisine of some of the city’s great restaurants.

IMPORTANT TIPS

We recommend visiting the picturesque district of Barranco and visiting the famous Bridge of Sighs.

If you have a little more time, you can go to the traditional center of Lima and visit the Plaza de Armas, visit the Alameda Chabuca Granda, the beautiful Parque de la Muralla and take a tour of the famous Catacombs of San Francisco.

If you wish to buy handicrafts, we recommend you to visit Petit Thouars Avenue, where you will find several themed markets of the different regions of Peru. I highly recommend the “Indian Market”.

As for food, in Miraflores you will find several restaurants with delicious Creole and marine food (Rosa Nautica, Huaca Pucllana). If you like Brazilian food, you can visit the Ponto Brasil restaurant. Our consultants can indicate the best restaurant options according to your preferences.

Overnight: Hotel in Lima

Meals: Breakfast

Depending on your flight time, our representative will stop by your hotel to go to the airport.

END OF OUR SERVICES

Meals: Breakfast

Check in: 12:00pm Check out: 9:00am

NOTE: If your departure time is after check-out time, you can use the hotel’s common areas while you wait.