Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We drive through the Andean highlands to Soraypampa (3,900 m), where a nourishing breakfast awaits. After meeting our trekking team and loading the gear, we take a scenic acclimatization hike to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m), famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and snow-capped backdrop. After exploring and taking photos, we return to Soraypampa for a gourmet lunch prepared by our chef. In the afternoon, we hike a short distance to Salkantaypampa, our first campsite nestled at the base of the mighty Salkantay Mountain. Dinner and star-gazing cap off this magical day in the Andes.

We start the day with a warm wake-up coca tea served at your tent, followed by a hearty breakfast to fuel your most challenging day. The trail begins with a steady 2-hour ascent to the awe-inspiring Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the snowcapped Salkantay Glacier, one of Cusco’s highest and most sacred peaks.

After soaking in the majesty of the Andes, we descend for about 2 hours to Wayracmachay, where our chef awaits with a delicious, energizing lunch. The afternoon continues with a 4-hour descent into the warmer climate of the high jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation and waterfalls. We arrive at Colpapampa (2,600 m), a peaceful camp nestled in greenery where you can relax and unwind under the stars.

Wake up at 5:00 am to the sounds of the Andes transitioning into the Amazon. After a hearty breakfast prepared by our chef, you'll pack your day bag with essentials, water, snacks, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent, as today we descend into the lush, semi-tropical high jungle.

Our hike begins with a gentle 4-hour descent following the curves of the Santa Teresa River, as the dry mountain landscape transforms into a vibrant cloud forest. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, wild orchids, fruit trees, and a variety of bird species. This stretch of the trail is also known for its rich biodiversity, keep an eye out for colorful tanagers and maybe even the elusive cock-of-the-rock.

We arrive at Playa Sawayaco, a riverside settlement where our chef awaits with a fresh, energizing lunch made from locally sourced ingredients. After some well-deserved rest, we continue for another 45 minutes to Lucmabamba (2,000 m / 6,562 ft), a tranquil farming village nestled between green hills covered in banana trees, avocado orchards, and coffee plantations.

This afternoon, enjoy a special coffee experience hosted by a local family. Learn how organic coffee is cultivated, harvested, and roasted, then try your hand at roasting your own beans over a traditional wood-fired pan before savoring the freshest cup you’ve ever tasted.

Depending on the season and interest of the group, there’s also an option to visit the Cocalmayo hot springs, a series of natural thermal pools near Santa Teresa (transport and entrance fees not included; your guide will assist with coordination).

End your day at our cozy jungle campsite in Lucmabamba, where dinner is served under the stars, surrounded by the hum of the forest. Rest well, tomorrow, we hike a portion of the original Inca Trail to reach the first panoramic views of Machu Picchu.

Wake up at 5:00 am to the peaceful sounds of the jungle, surrounded by misty hills and the song of tropical birds. After a hearty breakfast prepared with local ingredients, we begin one of the most scenic and meaningful sections of the journey, a hike along an original Inca Trail path that winds gradually uphill through cloud forest and rich vegetation.

Over approximately 4 hours, we ascend toward Llactapata, a little-visited Inca archaeological site perched high above the Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival, you'll be rewarded with your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking sight that few travelers get to experience. Bring your binoculars or camera: from here, you can spot the terraces and sacred temples of the citadel in the distance, beautifully framed by the surrounding peaks. This moment is often described as a quiet, spiritual encounter, an intimate preview of what awaits.

After time to explore and reflect, we descend for about 1.5 hours through lush terrain to Hidroelectrica, where our trekking chef awaits with a delicious farewell lunch. This will be your final meal with our trail crew, a perfect moment to thank them or share a tip in appreciation of their hard work and care.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey with a scenic 3-hour walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. This path leads us through the Machu Picchu canyon, with views of waterfalls, orchids, and the roaring Urubamba River by your side.

We arrive in town around 4:00 pm, where you’ll check into a comfortable hotel and enjoy a well-earned hot shower. Relax, dine at your leisure, and rest well, tomorrow, you’ll step into the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

Today marks the pinnacle of your journey, a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Machu Picchu, the iconic Lost City of the Incas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled high in the Andes.

After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, we board one of the first buses to ascend the winding mountain road to the sanctuary. Arriving in the soft glow of morning light, you’ll experience the citadel at its most serene, before the crowds, surrounded by mist and mystery.

Upon arrival, we complete the check-in process (passport and entrance ticket required), then climb to the upper terraces for your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu framed by the jagged peaks of the Sacred Valley, a postcard-perfect moment you’ll never forget.

👉 Pro Tip: Book this tour at least 4 months in advance to secure Circuit 2, the most panoramic and immersive route, giving access to Machu Picchu’s most iconic landmarks.

Your expert guide will lead a 2.5-hour walking tour through the citadel’s architectural marvels, including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Royal Quarters, and the Intiwatana, an ancient solar clock still aligned with the solstice. Along the way, you'll uncover the mysticism, astronomy, and engineering brilliance of the Inca civilization, who shaped this masterpiece in harmony with nature and the cosmos.

For thrill-seekers, the optional hike to Huayna Picchu (must be reserved in advance, $75 USD) offers an exhilarating climb up steep Inca stairways to a panoramic viewpoint perched high above the ruins. The views are jaw-dropping, but the narrow trail is not recommended for those with vertigo. The best season for this hike is May to October, when skies are clear and paths are dry.

After exploring, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included) and a last stroll through the village. In the afternoon, board the Vistadome panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a comfortable private transfer to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 pm.

A truly epic finale to your Andean adventure, one filled with awe, connection, and the enduring spirit of the Incas.