HIKE MACHU PICCHU & BEST SURROUNDINGS PLUS PUNO AND TITICACA LAKE NAVIGATION

Overview

Explore the Land of the Incas, bike down to the Sacred Valley with amazing views of the Andes, hike the ancient trails of this magnificent civilization and learn about the history of the Archeological sites you find along the way, taste the local flavors of the best gastronomy in Latin-American and stay at charming hotels.

Note.-
If your flight arrives in the evening, we suggest you make online reservation at Wyndham hotel at Lima airport. It's a short 3 minute walk from terminal to lobby. If your flight arrives Lima early in the morning on Day 1, we recommend you allow at least 3 hours layover, then fly to Cusco.

Highlights

Bike the Sacred Valley
Hike to Machu Picchu
Visit the Rainbow Mountain
Try the best gastronomy in Latin-America
Stay at Unique places in every location
Be lead by top experienced guides at every step you take
Support sustainable travel to preserve nature and culture
Learn about the History of the Incas
Embark on an astonishing navigation through Titicaca Lake

Activities

Hiking
Culture
Wildlife
Navigation

Activity level

Moderate

Fitness Rating

Fitness Level 6

Mostrar Detalles Fitness Ratings Information

FITNESS LEVEL 1
You are a couch potato.
You cannot ride for more than half an hour on flat terrain at a time, and the thought of climbing on a bike is daunting.
You exercise less than 1 hour per week.

FITNESS LEVEL 2
You live a fairly inactive life with little physical activity other than walking.
You can handle a 1-hour bike ride on flat terrain at a relaxed pace.
Small, short hills are challenging to climb, but are sometimes manageable.
You exercise on average 1 hour per week (including riding a mountain bike).

FITNESS LEVEL 3
You are capable of 2 hours of pedal time in a day at a relaxed pace, as long as there are several breaks.
You can handle one or two easy climbs of up to 330 vertical feet (150 m) total.
You exercise on average 2 hours per week (including riding a mountain bike).

FITNESS LEVEL 4
You are capable of climbing up to 650 vertical feet (200 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 3 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 5
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 2-3 hours of pedal time each day.
You are confident climbing up to a total of 1,000 vertical feet (300 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 4 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 6
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle moderately steep climbs of up to a total of 1,650 vertical feet (500 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 5 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 7
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle moderate climbs up to 2,450 vertical feet (750 m) total in a day.
You exercise on average 6 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 8
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You have little trouble climbing 3,280 vertical feet (1,000 m) in a day on moderate to steep terrain.
You exercise on average 6-10 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 9
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle steep, sustained climbs of up to 4,920 vertical feet (1,500 m) in a day.
You exercise over 10-hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

Season

All year round

Minimum age

8 years old

Full Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Cusco Airport / Walking City Tour PM (About 3 Hours)

Try to arrive Cusco airport between 9AM-12N. Driver will be waiting holding a sign with ACTIVEEXPEDITION and your name on it. Drive about 15 minutes to your hotel for check in. Your tour guide meets you in the lobby where you begin walking to the main Plaza de Armas, the heart of the legendary Inca Empire, and where the statue of King Pachacutec, whose brilliant vision led to the design and building of Machu Picchu, greets everyone. Continue on foot through authentic narrow Inca streets to explore the historical city and Coricancha Temple, also known as the "Golden Temple of the Sun." See the remarkable achievements of ancient Inca civilization, that include stone arches, Inca walls, cobbled streets, and many examples of exotic architecture. Observe the impact of colonial invasion and how the collision of two very different societies fused into one enchanting hub of modern Peruvian culture.

Overnight at Encantada Spa and Boutique or Similar
Meals Included: none

Day 2

Sacred Valley Tour with Mountain Bike / Chinchero Weavers, Maras, Moray (8AM-5PM. Bring All Your Luggage)

8am. Tour guide and driver arrive at your hotel to begin a 30-minute drive to the Chinchero weavers’ village where local Quechua women demonstrate traditional Inca weaving and dyeing techniques. Continue by van to Maras salt mines, where an actively flowing underground stream evaporates and deposits salt into a cascade of terraced ponds, each owned and harvested by a local family. Then drive to Moray to hike around unusual terraced geologic sinkholes, shaped by the Inca into a landscape masterpiece. Here you begin a 15km downhill mountain bike ride over wide, dirt roads to the valley of the Urubamba River. From the valley, you follow a flat, dirt road about 5-6KM to your hotel in Ollantaytambo, the oldest still-occupied village in Peru. Pack your backpack with everything you need for the 1 Day hike + 1 overnight in hotel. Store excess luggage at the hotel in Ollantaytambo. Suggested backpack size: up to 24 liters women / 28 liters men / 20 liters children depending on their size

Overnight: Tunupa Lodge or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast and box lunch

Day 3

Inca Trail Hike (12KM) To Machu Picchu / Hotel

After early breakfast in your hotel, tour guide will meet you and begin 5-10 minute walk to the station where you board early morning train. Ride 1 hour to KM 104 where you get off and begin 12KM hike up out of the canyon passing waterfalls, and the ancient Inca town of Winya Wayna (meaning "Forever Young" in the native language). Continue to the Sungate for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu (depending on cloud cover). Then descend to the guard shack in the upper terraces to enjoy the classic view of Machu Picchu before you exit the park. Take shuttle bus 30 minutes to the village of Aguas Calientes and walk to your hotel.

Overnight: Terraza de Luna or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast and box lunch

Day 4

Explore Machu Picchu Lower Circuit / Return To Cusco

After breakfast in your hotel, your tour guide will meet you in the lobby and walk to the bus stop for the ride to Machu Picchu. Begin guided tour of historical sites on the lower circuit (average 2 hours) before you exit and return by bus to the village. Eat lunch (at your expense), then board the afternoon train for 2 hour ride to Ollantaytambo where driver will be waiting. Pickup excess luggage then drive 2 hours to your hotel in Cusco arriving by 6-7PM.

Overnight: Encantada Spa and Boutique or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5

Rainbow Mountain 5AM-4PM (Drive 3.5 Hours Each Way) 16,000 Ft/4900 M.

Pickup from hotel and begin 3.5 hour drive to the parking area below Rainbow Mountain. Hike about 2 hours or you can rent from a local wrangler who will lead a horse while you ride part way (up only), then hike the remaining distance to the view point. (no experience necessary) Descend on foot about 1 hour to the parking area and return 3.5 hours by van to your hotel in Cusco.

Overnight: Encantada Spa and Boutique or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6

Ruta del Sol Journey

Begin your day with an early breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an 8-hour bus journey along the Ruta del Sol towards Puno. Our first stop is the historic town of Andahuaylillas, renowned for the San Pedro Apostol Temple, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of South America. The interior is adorned with Renaissance artworks, an unparalleled collection of Cusco School canvases depicting the life of Saint Peter (featuring stunning gold leaf frames), a majestic organ, silverware, and a baroque altar.
Next, we proceed to Raqchi, another significant historical site. Here, you will visit the Temple of Wiracocha, celebrated for its impressive architecture that exemplifies Incan supremacy.
For lunch, we will stop at Marangani, located 30 minutes from Raqchi. This buffet restaurant is a favorite along the route, offering traditional Peruvian food. Additionally, there is an interpretation center to explore.
The adventure continues in the afternoon with a visit to La Raya, the highest point on the route. This strategic stop offers breathtaking views of the Chimboya snow peak. You will also have the opportunity to meet auquénidos and local artisans who are expert crafters of alpaca wool. Before concluding this incredible journey, our final stop is Pukara, an archaeological museum where we will learn about the first inhabitants of the Andes. Discover their hunting, agricultural, and herding skills, and gain insight into the cosmovision of the altiplano people.
Upon arriving in Puno, we will check into our hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to rest or explore the town at your leisure.

Overnight: La Hacienda Plaza Puno or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch

Day 7

Navigation at Titicaca Lake

Breakfast at hotel then pickup and transfer to the main port of Puno, where we board a motorboat. The motorboat journey to Uros takes about 30 minutes. Upon arrival at the islands, we meet the natives who share their ancestral way of life with us. After bidding farewell to the Uros, we continue our journey to Taquile Island (a 2-hour and 30-minute boat ride). Upon arrival at Taquile, we take a walk (20-30 minutes) along the stone paths, ascending to the village where we meet the slightly shy but very hardworking natives who demonstrate their art and wisdom to visitors. These cheerful residents, proud of their culture and origin, invite us to appreciate the beautiful landscape overlooking the vastness of Lake Titicaca. At noon, we enjoy a delicious lunch offered by the natives. Later, we begin a walk around the island, exploring its streets and observing the stone and adobe houses in contrast with nature. Finally, we arrive at the island's port to board our motorboat. Arrival at the main port of Puno and transfer to the city center.

Overnight: La Hacienda Plaza Puno or Similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch

Day 8

Departure Day

Breakfast. Transfer to the airport in Juliaca 1 hour away, in time to connect with your flight. End of services (Pickup from the hotel 3 hours before the flight departure).

Meals Included: Breakfast

Let's design your adventure

Included

Cusco airport transfer on arrival
7 nights in 3*superior hotel with private bathroom and breakfast Accommodation in Puno in front of the lake available upon request at additional cost.
All ground transportation to all activities listed in the itinerary
English-speaking tour guide for all activities
Inca Trail hiking permits (subject to availability)
Box lunch for Inca Trail hike
1 Entry to Machu Picchu lower circuit
Private, guided activities and tours in small group up to 10 people
Bus tickets to Machu Picchu
Round trip train tickets
Rainbow mountain snacks + entry fees
Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Puno
Boat tickets to Titicaca Lake, Taquile Island
All meals as listed in the itinerary

Not Included

International flights to Lima, Peru
Domestic flights flights Lima (we suggest to use Latam)
Accommodation in Lima
Tips or gratuities
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Ticket to hike Huayna Picchu (add $75 USD per person. Subject to availability)
Horse rental on Rainbow Mountain (bring cash about $25 USD per person)

Important Information

Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or for safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned in the itinerary are guaranteed.
Visas and Passports: Make sure you check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important that your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your date of travel.
Accommodation: We strive to use small and charming places that are unique and provide stellar service.
Single Supplement Costs: Available for solo travelers.
Transportation: Driving time can take more than expected in Peru, as it is a country with roads meandering through the Andes mountains. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group.
Gear: Biking gear is not included in this expedition, so you can bring yours, our guides will help you put your bikes together and there will be an storage to keep you bike bags while you ride. We also have bike rental available for 75usd per day.
Level of Activity: This trip is considered challenging and technical, meaning you need to have experience, the trails are mostly blue, and a few are black, however your guides will teach you every day how to ride on the varied terrain. The whole trip involves a mix of trails, some in dirt, rocks, grass and gravel. There will always be transport support close to the trails, and guides will be in contact with the driver by radio.
Weather in Peru: Climate in Peru by Season The climate in Peru varies significantly throughout the year, with each season offering a unique experience. Below is an overview of the two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Dry Season (May to October) The dry season, which lasts from May to October, is characterized by clear skies and pleasant temperatures. This is the most recommended time for outdoor activities, especially hiking in the Andes. Temperatures: During the day, temperatures in the mountains range between 20°C and 25°C. However, the nights can be quite cold, so remember to pack a jacket! Peruvian Jungle: In the jungle, temperatures can reach up to 32°C or more. Coastal Areas: Coastal areas like Lima experience a more temperate climate, with high humidity but little rainfall. This period is ideal for visiting Machu Picchu, as it avoids the heavy rains and muddy trails. The months of April, May, September, and October are particularly recommended, as they represent a transition between seasons, with more balanced climatic conditions. Rainy Season (November to April) The rainy season, which extends from November to April, brings heavy precipitation, especially in January and February, when the Inca Trail is often closed for maintenance. Temperatures in the Andes: During the day, temperatures range between 18°C and 20°C. Hiking in places like Rainbow Mountain can be challenging due to the rain and possible snow. Amazon Region: Rainfall increases from December to March, maintaining a warm and humid climate, with daytime temperatures ranging between 30 and 32°C. Coastal Areas: Although the skies may be clearer, temperatures are higher from January to March. During this season, you may need to adjust your travel plans, as some roads can become muddy or washed away by heavy downpours.
Sustainability: We do our best not to produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough, so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero-waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to have the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we can teach our guests about the rich culture Peru, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local people, we can create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
Guides: All our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University, this means they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience, and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. Moreover, they are all extremely personable and strive to deliver travel experiences of a lifetime.
Health Advisory: No vaccinations needed for this trip.

Packing list

We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 litters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 litters for daily activities should be sufficient. In Peru, the weather can change drastically especially when you are moving from the Andes into the cloud forest.

Passport
Credit card
Two pairs of lightweight hiking pants
Two pairs of shorts
Three pairs of biking shorts
One bathing suit
3 – 4 Biking Jerseys
One cotton T-shirts
One water T-shirt
One warm jacket
One fleece
One rain jacket
Two buffs
One pair of tennis shoes
One pair of water sandals or similar
Optional – personal cleats and shoes
Optional – pads for extra protection
One- or two-night outfits
One cap or hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Mosquito repellent
Camera
Head lamp
Optional binoculars
Weather bottle

NOTE: Laundry is available almost at every location, this helps traveling light too.

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