Peru Adventure Vacation: The Sacred Valley and Inca Trail Trek | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

-

Peru Adventure Vacation: The Sacred Valley and Inca Trail Trek

PRIVATE TOUR - 12 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 6485

Private Tour Highlights

  • Making like the ancient Incas by embarking on the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu; perhaps spying the elusive Spectacled Bear along the way.
  • Biking through the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Sacred Valley and passing the incredible archaeological site of Moray.
  • Interacting with locals at the colorful San Pedro market while learning of Andean ingredients.
  • Rafting the exhilarating rapids of the Urubamba River located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
  • Relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs after days filled with adventure.
  • Explore Lima's Bay by bike, discovering the best spots of the city and the vibrant district of Miraflores with its fantastic cliff edge sidewalks and parks overlooking the ocean.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

During this energetic Yampu trip, you will trek the Inca Trail, following the route of an ancient civilization creating a unique experience combining nature and intrigue. This tour will also include the primary highlights of Peru: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley, in an adventurous manner. Our explorations of Peru’s cities will combine culture and adventure sports creating a unique experience. Feel the adrenaline while visiting one of the most mystic and energetic countries in the world.

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.

This trip can be customized to fit your individual travel dates and any specific requests you may have. Usually, there are no set dates for our trips, however, because of Government regulations the Inca Trail departs only on certain days and must be booked with plenty of notice. Permits may sell out as early as three months in advance during the high season and will be confirmed on a first come-first served basis.

Inclusions
Prices include round-trip airfare from Lima to Cusco; hotel accommodation including daily continental or buffet breakfast; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling, guided tours in English including all entrance fees and equipment; and meals where specified. Your trek includes private transportation to Piscacucho (beginning of trek); all meals; filtered and boiled water; Chef and supporting staff; Porters for your duffle and camping equipment; camping gear including tent (North Face tent Four Season Mountain 25); inflatable Therma-rest mattress; personal duffle bag (15.43lbs); dining tent, cook tent and bathroom tent; kitchen supplies; first aid and oxygen; and walkie-talkies for communication.

Note:
*Cost includes Vistadome train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Vistadome is ideal for travelers who want a personalized immersion of Andean culture with traditional dances and music along the way. This train features panoramic windows, leather seats, new table design as well as heating and air conditioning.

*Deluxe service Hiram Bingham train features an observation wagon with a bar and two dining cars. In addition, this train includes a gourmet brunch on board, exclusive bus return to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu as well as a guided tour. Afternoon tea in the Sanctuary Lodge, pre-dinner cocktails and a 4-course, a la carte dinner is also included. The train does not operate on Sundays. Upgrades available from Vistadome to Hiram Bingham Deluxe; please ask your Yampu Tour Consultant for the cost of the upgrade.

*The Inca Trail is closed during the month of February; during that time this tour is not available. The Inca Trail has Group Departures every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. Private hikes may be booked upon request and may be available most dates at a surcharge of $425 per person, based on two people traveling or $850 based on one person traveling.

*Hike Rate: moderate to difficult due to the high altitude and steep ascents. We recommend that you rest on your first day in Cusco; if you are prone to altitude sickness, please consult with your physician.
Exclusions

Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.

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

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 6485

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

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

Flight to Cusco

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

Cusco_Peru
Day
3

Walking Tour of Cusco

This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco, where you will visit the Korikancha Temple, Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During your tour today, you have the option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market. The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University. San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where you will receive a briefing about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals selling or purchasing items from the market.

This afternoon there will be time for lunch (lunch not included) before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko, and finally, the Sacsayhuaman Fortress. Later in the afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsayhuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
...read less

Cusco_Market_Fruit_Peru
Day
4

Urubamba River Rafting

This morning, depart for the Urubamba River located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas (north of Cusco). Here is where a guide will provide an introductory lesson on safety and equipment for the rafting trip along the Urubamba. This tour will last for approximately two hours in rapids of varying classes, II, III, IV+, and V, depending on the route selected based on one's ability and the season. The Ollantaytambo Class III runs from May to December; the Quiquijana Class III from December to May; and the Chuquicahuana Class III, IV, and V also from December to May. The Chuquicahuana is the most challenging route and will have a safety guide in the kayak at all times. The more challenging route is recommended for those with the utmost experience. ...read less

sacred_valley_rafting
Day
5

Chincheros Biking Tour

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in the Sacred Valley to be transferred to the village of Chinchero, where the ride starts. Here you will be briefed on the activity and then begin your fun bike tour through the fascinating landscape of the valley. Reach Tiobamba, where you can enjoy a delicious outdoor picnic before transferring back to your hotel (the ride time will depend on the group's speed).

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in the Sacred Valley to be transferred to the village of Chinchero, where the ride starts. Here you will be briefed on the activity and then begin your fun bike tour through the fascinating landscape of the valley. Reach Tiobamba, where you can enjoy a delicious outdoor picnic before transferring back to your hotel (the ride time will depend on the group's speed).

Mountain_bike_bikers_biking_Peru
Day
6

Cusco - Huayllabamba

Between read more...

Between 4:00 and 4:30 am, you will be greeted at your hotel and transferred to Piskacuchu (2,700 meters above sea level). A community located on the 82nd kilometer of the Cusco - Machu Picchu railroad, this will be the starting point of your trek. You will cross the bridge and walk along the Urubamba River's left shore that flows northwest along the Sacred Valley.

Following the trail along a flat terrain, you will arrive in Miskay (2,800 meters), to then ascend and finally see, from the tallest part of an overlook, the Inca city of Patallacta (2,750 meters). Continue trekking along the valley created by the Kusichaca River as you gradually climb for about five hours until reaching your first campsite in the Huayllabamba village (3,000 meters). Along the way, you will see spectacular views of the Vilcanota ridge on the opposite side of the Urubamba River, where the impressive Veronica peak reigns at 5,832 meters above sea level. Not to mention the diversity of wild flora and fauna that can be found all along the valley.

Total Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)
Estimated Walking Time: Approximately 5-6 hours
Maximum Altitude Point: Approximately 3,000 meters (9,840 feet)
Campsite Altitude: Approximately 3,000 meters (9,840 feet)
...read less

Inca trail_Peru
Day
7

Huayllabamba - Pacaymayo

This morning you will wake around 6 am for breakfast before leaving Huayllabamba behind to begin the most challenging part of the trek. Today's climb will consist of an abrupt and steep ascent that stretches for nine kilometers; along this climb, the landscape changes from sierra to puna (a dry and high area with little vegetation).

On the way to the first mountain pass, the Abra Warmihuanusca (Dead Woman's Pass), you will see domesticated llamas and alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at this high altitude. You will also cross an area of the so-called cloud forest, the habitat for various bird species, including hummingbirds and sparrows, and the Andean bear (also known as the Spectacled Bear). Immediately after the pass, you will descend into the Pacaymayo valley (at 3,600 meters), where you will spend the evening at camp.

Total Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers (6.9 miles)
Estimated Walking Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
Maximum Altitude Point: Approximately 4,200 meters (13,776 feet)
Campsite Altitude: Approximately 3,500 meters (11,480 feet)
Note: We strongly advise that on this day, your daypack should be well-stocked with candies, chocolates, and coca leaves to keep your sugar level high and help prevent altitude sickness.
...read less

inca-trail_Peru
Day
8

Pacaymayo - Winaywayna

Today is the longest day in our trek and the most impressive and interesting due to the number of archeological sites you will visit and learn more about from your guide. This morning from Pacaymayo, you will climb to the second pass, the Abra de Runkurakay (at 3,970 meters). Halfway up, you will visit the archeological complex of Pacaymayo; this site consists of a small oval structure that is believed to have served the purpose of a watchtower.

After traversing the pass, descend towards Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) and enter the cloud forest to arrive at Sayacmarca (at 3,624 meters) finally. Sayacmarca is a beautiful complex of semicircular construction enclosures at different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios, and irrigation canals. Continuing up a more leisurely climb, you will arrive at the third pass, the Abra de Phuyupatamarca (at 3,700 meters). Along this climb, you will be able to appreciate the magnitude of the Incas' ancient craft as you walk along paths semi-detached from the mountain and bearing witness to rocks placed purposely to fill up ravines, saving the trail from the multileveled Andean geography.

You will pass through an Inca tunnel to arrive at the Abra de Phuyupatamarca and the complex of the same name. One of the most complete and best-preserved archeological complexes along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Abra de Phuyupatamarca is located on the highest point of a mountain and translates to "town over the clouds".

This evening, we will set up camp at either Phuyupatamarca or the Winya Wayna campsites, subject to the trail authorities' regulations.
Total Distance: Approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles)
Estimated Walking Time: Approximately 8 hours
Maximum Altitude Point: Approximately 3,900 meters (12,792 feet)
Campsite Altitude: Approximately 2,650 meters (8,692 feet)
...read less

Inca Trail_Intipata_Peru
Day
9

Winaywayna - Machu Picchu

On this fourth and last day, get up at 4 am to leave Winaywayna and climb to Intipunku, or the Sun Gate. This trek will take approximately an hour along a trail of flat stones following the cliff's edge in the highland jungle. From this fabulous spot, see the sunrise over the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu before descending into Machu Picchu. After a 40-minute trek, enter the citadel from the highest point through the "House of the Guardians" and continue the descent to the control point, where one will register and leave their backpacks. Immediately following the trek, enjoy a complete guided tour of the Inca citadel before enjoying some free time to walk around.

This afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes for an evening at leisure.
Total Distance: Approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles)
Estimated Walking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Maximum Altitude Point: Approximately 2,700 meters (8,829 feet)
Campsite Altitude: Approximately 2,400 meters (7,872 feet)
Note: Government regulations limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu daily. Entrance is subject to availability. Please book with plenty of notice to confirm access to the ruins. Machu Picchu entrance tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
...read less

Machu_Picchu_Peru
Day
10

Cusco at Leisure

Today is at leisure. One may choose to relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at the time of booking (subject to availability).

Upon arrival, be greeted at the train station reception and transferred to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Today is at leisure. One may choose to relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at the time of booking (subject to availability).

Upon arrival, be greeted at the train station reception and transferred to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Hiram_Bingham_Train_Peru
Day
11

Cusco- Lima

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima.

Upon arrival to Lima, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

This afternoon, enjoy a tour of Lima's Bay by bike, discovering the best spots of the city. Enjoy a visit to Barranco, the old and bohemian neighborhood of the city, and its mansions, bars, and parks. This tour also visits the neighborhood of Chorrillos with its old fishing pier, beaches, and promenade. Finally, bike through the vibrant district of Miraflores with its fantastic cliff edge sidewalks and parks overlooking the ocean. This tour will also allow the opportunity to view the many old houses, colonial mansions, and some of Lima's best restaurants, well-known for its cuisine. Enjoy a snack in a traditional old bar or cafe in the area before returning to your hotel in Lima for an evening at leisure. Note: One may also choose to participate in tandem paragliding flights today with an experienced instructor. Due to weather conditions, bookings must be done and paid for locally.
...read less

Lima_biking
Day
12

Flight Home

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

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

Lima, Peru

Cusco, Peru

Sacred Valley, Calca Province, Cusco, Peru

Machupicchu, Cusco, Peru

Places You'll See

  • Peru_Lima_city

    Lima

    Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.

  • 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.

  • 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

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

Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima

Lima : Innside by Meliá Lima Miraflores

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

Lima : Hilton Lima Miraflores

Lima : Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima

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)

Lima : JW Marriott, Lima

Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza (Ocean View)

Testimonials

Susan R.

Traveled December, 2015 - February, 2016

A remarkable and wonderful trip

This has been a remarkable and wonderful trip for us that will live in our memories forever. Please know that we appreciate all of your help. It has been a great two months.

Annie B.

Traveled April, 2014

Our tour was absolutely flawless

Our tour was absolutely flawless, in fact the best one on the ship! I have given your name to 10 fellow passengers who will be contacting you in the future.

Traveled To

Bob K.

Traveled May, 2015

What a fantastic trip Machu Picchu was for Anne and me

WOW! What a fantastic trip Machu Picchu was for Anne and me. We had a wonderful adventure. Aside from the remarkable scenery, awesome landscapes, history, and mystic of Peru and the Inca, the trip was in large part a huge success because of you, and Yampu! Everything went without a hitch. All of our travel, accommodations, personnel, and transitions were excellent. It was really nice to have someone to meet and escort us each step along the way. Our guide on the Inca Trail was fantastic. He was very committed to our success, and was exceedingly knowledgeable about the plants and animals, as well as the Inca history. He told us he’s hiked the Trail more than 600 times! The hotels you picked for us were perfect. And all of the food, both at hotels and on the Trail was great! It’s been a difficult time this past week getting back into work after such an adventure. We feel refreshed, but a little distracted as our thoughts keep wondering back to Peru and our trip. Thanks again for all of your help and dedication in making this a very memorable 30th wedding anniversary for Anne and me. We were both very pleased with you, Yampu, and the outcome of our trip.

Traveled To

Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

Similar Tours