Welcome to the ancient capital of the Inca Empire! Upon arrival in Cusco, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel to rest and acclimate. At 1:00 PM, join your expert guide for a half-day Cusco City Tour, starting in the historic center with visits to the majestic Cathedral, the golden Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), and the lively San Pedro Market. Later, head into the hills to explore the spectacular ruins of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. This afternoon introduces you to the cultural heartbeat of the Andes — both ancient and alive.

Start the day at 8:00 AM with a drive into the Sacred Valley, where dramatic landscapes meet ancient ingenuity. Your first stop is Moray, a series of circular agricultural terraces once used by the Incas as a farming laboratory. Next, descend to the dazzling white pools of the Maras salt mines, still in use by local families. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch in the valley before arriving at Ollantaytambo, one of the last Inca towns still inhabited today. Explore its mighty fortress and charming cobbled streets before settling into your hotel to prepare for the trail ahead.

Your adventure begins early with a 5:45 AM pickup and train ride to KM 104, where your trek begins. After a delicious breakfast served by our private chef, start hiking the scenic Short Inca Trail. Visit Chachabamba, an impressive Inca outpost, and enjoy rich flora like orchids and ferns as you ascend toward Wiñayhuayna, a beautiful archaeological site perched above the valley. After lunch with stunning views, continue to the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first awe-inspiring glimpse of Machu Picchu. End the day in Aguas Calientes at a cozy hotel.

After an early breakfast, ride the bus back up to Machu Picchu for an unforgettable visit. Enter through the main gate and follow Circuit 2, the most complete route, for a 2.5 to 3-hour guided tour through temples, sacred plazas, farming terraces, and the famous lookout points. Your guide will reveal the mysteries, myths, and engineering brilliance of this iconic city. After your tour, enjoy a gourmet lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant, part of the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. Later, board the Vistadome Observatory train back to the Sacred Valley, then return by private vehicle to Cusco.

Depart Cusco at 4:00 AM for a scenic drive through remote Andean villages, where alpacas roam and snowcapped peaks rise. After a hearty breakfast, begin your hike to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Reach the summit and marvel at the natural rainbow of mineral-rich slopes — a true photographer’s dream. If you’re up for more, continue through the surreal landscapes of the Red Valley, a hidden gem of crimson hills and dramatic silence. Enjoy a hot lunch surrounded by nature before heading back to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 PM — full of stories and wonder.

We’ll pick you up 2.5 hours before your flight for a smooth transfer to the airport. Our team will assist you with luggage and check-in, and thank you warmly for choosing Champions Peru Travel. We hope to see you again on another unforgettable journey in Peru!