Captivating Culture in the Andean Valleys of Peru | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Captivating Culture in the Andean Valleys of Peru

PRIVATE TOUR - 8 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 6668

Private Tour Highlights

  • Chatting to fellow travelers and locals alike in Huacahuasi, a secluded village accessed with a hike past majestic mountains and glassy lakes.
  • Admiring finely made handicrafts including the traditional Andean fabrics on display in the local markets of Pisac.
  • Observing the local way of life in the Lares Valley by visiting the weaving village of Choquecancha.
  • Sensing the magical aura of Ollantaytambo, discovering the intricacies of its expertly-planned architectural features.
  • Setting foot in the magical Incan citadel, Machu Picchu; a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Stepping back in time at the incredible Inca sites throughout the Sacred Valley such as Puka Pukara, Sacsayhuaman, Pisac and Tambomachay.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Experience captivating culture in the Andean Valleys of Peru! Acquire knowledge of the Ancient Inca Civilization and their massive structures while exploring and learning of the ways of today’s Andean people.  The only way to truly experience a country’s traditional culture is to submerse oneself in the people’s way of life, while learning and understanding the rich history of the region. With Yampu, witness the transcendent landscape and envisage its ancient past.

After the flights to Lima, and then to Cusco, take the afternoon at leisure to acclimate to the area’s high altitude. The next day, enjoy several day tours of Cusco! Visit San Blas quarter and see the unmistakable rigor of the Inca walls, walk charming small cobblestone streets with craftspeople who sell their works on the street, and witness the massive Sacsayhuaman fortress along with so much more.

Shop the famous market at Pisaq. A morning visit to check out its unique array of products will provide a nice overview of the rich culture yet to be explored on this journey. Travelers seeking inspiration in nature can opt for an invigorating morning hike surrounded by amazing views of the Andes Mountains before enjoying exclusive access to the isolated community of Viacha with a traditional “Pachamanca” meal, cooked under hot stones. Visit the archaeological complex at Pisaq, an afternoon excursion that offers a unique opportunity to explore the complex free of crowds, with the sun setting behind the peaks.

Go even deeper with an exploration into the heart of the Lares Valley. A scenic drive into the mountains, along the celebrated “Inca Weaver’s Trail”, allows a visit to the unique and uncrowded archaeological site of Ancasmarca along the hub-town of Lares. Visit a traditional and ancient weavers’ village or hike amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi. Spend time learning more about the heritage and day-to-day activities of the Huacahuasi community. Then embark on a spectacular hike through varied terrain to Ollantaytambo, the oldest living city in Latin America. Enjoy a short, early morning hike to Inca storage structures high above Ollantaytambo for a magnificent view of the town.

Later on, embark on a scenic train ride along the famous Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, before beginning this journey to Machu Picchu. Prepare to be awed by the imposing and skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among many others. Take a moment to quietly sit and listen to the wind or to meditate and absorb the mystical energy that envelops. Contemplate the history of Machu Picchu and its mysterious origins.

Inclusions
Price includes domestic and regional flights within the itinerary; all hotel accommodations including daily continental or buffet breakfast and daily city tax; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; guided tours in English including entrance fees.

A stop or a stay in Lima can be easily added to the tour for a more detailed experience of Peru.
Exclusions

International airfare (unless specifically included), airport departure taxes that must be paid on-site, gratuities, meals not mentioned, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages with meals, early / late check-out, room service, visa fees/services and other personal items or services not mentioned.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 6668

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International Flight to Lima

Upon arrival, you will be met by a Yampu guide who will assist you with the check in at the airport hotel.

Upon arrival, you will be met by a Yampu guide who will assist you with the check in at the airport hotel.

Day
2

Lima - Cusco

At the appropriate time, you will walk back to the airport to check in for your flight to Cusco.

Domestic Flight from Lima to Cusco

Upon arrival to Cusco, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
The elevation in Cusco is approximately 3400 meters (11200 feet), so we highly recommend resting as soon as you arrive for a few hours, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, or heavy meals. Please consult with your physician for additional details.
Cusco is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins of the old Inca city became the foundation for the Spanish architecture you see today, and many of the stone walls that line the streets were built by the Incas.

Note: Check in to the hotel is at 3 pm. Early check in may be available directly at the hotel subject to availability. You may store your luggage at the hotel until you are able to check in.
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Day
3

San Blas Neighborhood and Cusco Tour

San Blas quarter was originally used as dwellings for the Inca nobles, which built impressive stone constructions at a short distance of what used to be Huacaypata and it is the current place of the Main Square. Today the quarter is a conglomerate of charming small cobblestone streets that are very popular among craftspeople, who sell their works on the street. Among its top attractions is the San Blas Church, a temple that houses a pulpit that is a priceless work of art, a wood carving performed by a masterly indigenous woodcarver.

The second tour will begin at Sacsayhuaman fortress, one of the emblematic Inca constructions, built by Inca Pachacutec in the 15th century. This huge fortress is made of very large stones, and the manner in which they were transported and cut is still a mystery. The Inti Raymi Festival, which worships the Sun, is reenacted here on June 24 of each year during the winter solstice. Head on to Qenqo, located four kilometers away from Cusco city, which is a mainly religious archaeological complex where it is believed that propitiatory agricultural rituals were carried out. Continue to Puka Pukara, located seven kilometers away from Cusco. Puka Pukara, which means "red fortress", was an architectural complex presumably used for military purposes; it has many rooms, squares, bathrooms, aqueducts, walls and towers, and it is believed that the Inca's entourage used it while he rested at Tambomachay. Next, explore the fountains of Tambomachay, a construction that has fine stone finishing and high command of hydraulic engineering, with aqueducts that continue supplying clear water. Also known as the "Inca Bath", Tambomachay was probably the leisure place for the Inca and his entourage.

Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour near the Sacsahuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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Day
4

Sacred Valley of the Incas | Exploring Pisaq

The town square is often the center of activity throughout this region, but so too is the town market, and none is more alive than the famous market at Pisaq. A morning visit to check out its unique array of products will inspire you with a small taste of the rich culture yet to be explored on your journey. Travelers seeking inspiration in nature can opt for an invigorating morning hike surrounded by amazing views of the Andes Mountains that guard this magnificent valley. Later, enjoy exclusive access to the isolated community of Viacha, where you will learn about its artisanal potato farming practices and enjoy a traditional "Pachamanca" meal, cooked under hot stones.

After lunch you will visit the archaeological complex at Pisaq, an afternoon excursion that offers a unique opportunity to explore the complex free of crowds, with the sun setting behind the peaks. Activity Menu (morning to noon): - Cultural activity: Visit Awanakancha (an Andean camelid exhibition and traditional textile center), the town of Pisaq and local market, and experience an encounter with members of the local community of Viacha. OR - Hike: From the local community of Amaru to the local community of Viacha / Duration 2.5-3 hrs. / Moderate / Mountain pass at an elevation of 14,200/ - 4,328m. Group Activity: Group lunch at the local community of Viacha. In the afternoon, the whole group visits the Pisaq archeological site together, before heading to the lodge. ...read less

Day
5

Full Day Inca Sites, Villages, and Hikes

Now that you have gotten a glimpse of the rich Andean tapestry, today you will have the opportunity to go even deeper with an exploration into the heart of the Lares Valley. A scenic drive into the mountains, along the celebrated "Inca Weaver's Trail", allows you to visit the unique and uncrowded archeological site of Ancasmarca along the hub-town of Lares.

After lunch, you can choose between visiting the traditional and ancient weavers' village of Choquecancha, or opt for hiking amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi, where we all meet to spend the night. is lodge, which is run in joint venture with the local community and aims to protect the cultural heritage and the environment, provides an interesting insight into the evolving role of the original Andean people in both the culture and commerce of modern-day Cusco. ...read less

Day
6

Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo

Spend some time in the morning learning more about the heritage and day-to-day activities of the Huacahuasi community. Then, you can choose to embark on a spectacular hike through varied terrain and over a high pass, to the adjacent valley leading to the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, the oldest living city in Latin America. If you prefer to see more of the Sacred Valley, you can drive back for a visit to an ethnographic museum featuring the history of Peru's rich civilization of the past or choose to explore the valley on mountain bike, Afterwards, enjoy lunch in the Urubamba River countryside on your way to Ollantaytambo, where you can spend time meandering through its charming maze-like streets. ...read less

Day
7

Full Day Discovering Ollantaytambo Tour

From its beginnings as the royal estate of Inca-Emperor Pachacutec, to a stronghold against the Spanish conquistadors for Manco Inca Yupanqui, the temple at Ollantaytambo was regarded by the Incas as one of their most important ceremonial centers. On this day, enjoy a short, early morning hike to Inca storage structures high above Ollantaytambo which give a magnificent view of the town as well as of the main archaeological site across the valley. Afterwards, as the guide leads through a morning tour of the temple and explains its strategic architectural planning, one will also get a sense of its mystical history-a perfect introduction to the wonder of Machu Picchu. Around noon, embark on a scenic train ride along the famous Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu, whose charm lies in a history that began as a small railway stop and evolved into a bustling town still bisected by the train tracks. ...read less

Day
8

Machu Picchu - Cusco

At dawn, you begin your journey to Machu Picchu with a short and rollicking uphill bus ride. As you enter the "Sanctuary" (as locals refer to it), the morning sun rises over the iconic Sun Gate and washes the structures and terraces with resplendent light. Prepare to be awed by the imposing and skillful architecture of the Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among many others. Take a moment to quietly sit and listen to the wind or to meditate and absorb the mystical energy that envelops you.

Your imagination will soar as you contemplate the history of Machu Picchu and its mysterious origins. Some may even choose a hike to Huayna Picchu, the iconic towering mountain often seen in photographs, for dramatic views that stretch from the Urubamba River valley to the edge of the Amazon Jungle. Either way, you will be touched by a feeling of peace and rejuvenation which will linger even as you journey back to the city lights, and hustle and bustle of Cusco. ...read less

Day
9

Cusco - Lima

At the appropriate time, be met at the hotel and transferred to the airport for the flight home.

At the appropriate time, be met at the hotel and transferred to the airport for the flight home.

Cusco, Peru

Sacred Valley, Calca Province, Cusco, Peru

Lares Valley peru

Machu Picchu, Urubamba Province, Cusco, Peru

Places You'll See

  • Peru_Cusco_city

    Cusco

    Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).

  • Sacred-Valley

    Sacred Valley

    Situated in the Andes, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, also known as the Urubamba Valley, has become a popular destination. With shopping in its many markets, several hiking routes, and ambitious activities such as rock climbing and river rafting, it appeals to all. Survey significant archeological dig sites, or simply explore the multitude of attractions in leisure.

  • Lares Valley

    For those who wish to escape from the beaten tourist paths of Peru, Lares Valley is the place to do so. A trekkers paradise, Lares Valley is a prime destination to explore unchanged lands while learning about the local Andean communities and their crafts. Purchase handmade textiles while admiring the astonishing scenery.

  • Machu Picchu

    Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

Hotel Options

lares-the-lodges-2

Featured Accommodation

Huacahuasi Lodge

Built above the small village of Huacahuasi is Huacahuasi Lodge.
With each of the 8 rooms having a private bathroom, terrace and a personal hot tub, Huacahuasi Lodge is the place to stay during the ‘Lares Adventure’ trek. Relax and unwind after a long adventure, dine at the lodge’s restaurant. The women who work at the lodge are a part of the local Huacahuasi community, working in traditional dress.

Lares Valley ,

Featured Accommodation

Lamay Lodge

local staff provides exceptional service and care to our guests, starting with a welcoming drink and warm towel upon arrival, to hot water bottle and herbal pillow in bed at night. Their warmth and attentive care are what makes our lodges truly feel like your home away from home.

Sacred Valley ,

4 Star Properties

Cusco : El Mercado

Cusco : Palacio Manco Capac 

Sacred Valley : Casa Andina Premium, Valle Sagrado

Sacred Valley : Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness

Machu Picchu : El MaPi

Machu Picchu : Casa del Sol

5 Star Properties

Cusco : Inkaterra La Casona

Cusco : Palacio del Inka by Libertador, Cusco

Sacred Valley : Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba (Superior Suite)

Sacred Valley : Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa

Machu Picchu : Sumaq Hotel

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Luxury Properties

Cusco : Belmond Palacio Nazarenas

Cusco : Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Sacred Valley : Rio Sagrado

Sacred Valley : Tambo Del Inka Resort & Spa Valle Sagrado

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (Mountain View With Terrace)

Testimonials

Yolande

Traveled November, 2015

Machu Picchu is just an amazing structure

Our holiday has started off really nicely so far – lovely hotels, good guides and well organized – thanks to you and your team! Machu Picchu is just an amazing structure, and we were pleased that the kids managed to walk the entire lower trail without too much fussing! The guide was thankfully patient, and I think that the attraction of the lamas at the end helped them to incentivise them to get to that point. Boy, the 28 hour journey home was arduous! It’s so wonderful to be home, though. Thank you soooo much again for making the trip so fantastic and memorable. We’d definitely recommend you to our friends who wish to make the sojourn. A few have already expressed their interest.

Kevin R.

Traveled November, 2014

Our whole trip to Cuzco and Machu Picchu was fantastic.

I just wanted to drop you a quick note thanking you again for the excellent package you put together for Nancy and myself last week. Our whole trip to Cuzco and Machu Picchu was fantastic. Our Machu Picchu tour guide deserves special thanks. She was extremely knowledgeable and we had a lot of fun with her. Were it not for her coaching me, step by step, all the way down the death stairs on Huayna Picchu, I might still be up there looking for a place to live. She really went over and above the call of duty and is a fantastic lady. Thanks for putting together such a great trip for us!

Traveled To

John and Patty J.

Traveled October, 2014

John and I had a fabulous time on the trip you planned for us in Peru and Ecuador.

John and I had a fabulous time on the trip you planned for us in Peru and Ecuador.You planned every part of our trip down to the last detail, and we are happy to report that all went as planned! We were met at every flight by the guides who did an excellent job of teaching us about the areas we were visiting.They made each day interesting and fun. All of our accommodations were excellent, we especially appreciated the splash pool in our cabana at Inkaterra Amazonica. The weather there was very hot and humid, so being able to cool off in our private pool was a luxury! The one day hike into Machu Picchu was perfect. It gave us a taste of what hiking the Inka Trail was like. For us, it was a great alternative to hiking 4 or more days. We were able to see so many other places to add to our experience, without adding too many more days to our trip.

Traveled To


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