Active Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu trek
Explore Peru's grand route of the Incas
This Sacred Valley tour is for travellers who want to explore hidden villages on foot while also seeing the glorious historical sights the Inca heartland has to offer. You will hike to the remote indigenous community of Choquechaca to learn about their ancient weaving traditions, enjoy a freshly prepared mountainside lunch, and explore the ruins of Pumamarca, before heading on to tour the world-famous Machu Picchu and Cusco in style.
Good to know
- Private tour: all days & activities tailored to your preferences
- Explore at your pace, choose your own travel dates
- See Machu Picchu, Cusco & Sacred Valley with your own expert guide
- 24/7 in-country support and assistance
- Carefully-selected, quality assured hotels
Key information
| Destinations | Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu |
|---|---|
| Activity | Adventure, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Culture |
| Physical Level | Moderate |
 Season |
January - December |
Suggested itinerary
Arrival in Lima
Day 1 in Lima
You'll be met on arrival in Lima and transferred to your selected hotel. If you're feeling adventurous, head into the city to sample Peruvian cuisine.
Transfer to Sacred Valley
Day 2 in Sacred Valley
After an early morning flight from Lima to Cusco, you'll be collected by private transport and driven into the fertile Sacred Valley. This agricultural strip was the breadbasket of the Incan Empire.
Explore the Sacred Valley
Day 3 in Sacred Valley
Your private day-long Sacred Valley tour takes in the circular agricultural terrace of Moray, the salt pans of Maras and the ruins of Ollantaytambo. Your guide will explain how the Andean people still use the ancient farming techniques of the Inca to this day -- all set among stunning scenery.
Trek to Choquechaca and ruins of Pumamarka
Day 4 in Peru
An early start will see you driven from the Sacred Valley to a remote trailhead. From here, you'll hike for 2-3 hours uphill into the remote village of Choquechaca, where you can meet villagers, learn more about Peruvian textiles and enjoy a mountain lunch.
Afterwards, you'll return down the mountain, stopping to tour the little-visited Inca ruins of Pumamarka which overlook the confluence of the Patacancha and Yuracmayo rivers.
Take a scenic train to Machu Picchu
Day 5 in Machu Picchu
A scenic train ride follows the Urubamba River along agricultural terraces, offering panoramic views and landscapes as you meander towards Machu Picchu. On arrival, you can either take an afternoon tour to Machu Picchu or relax in your hotel.
Tour the ruins of Machu Picchu
Day 6 in Machu Picchu
Uncover the secrets of Machu Picchu on your private guided tour of the Inca citadel. Visit the most important parts of the ruins, learn about the history and construction of the site from your guide and hike to the top of Huayna Picchu for a bird's eye view of the ruins.
After you've experienced all Machu Picchu has to offer, you'll board a scenic train back to Ollantaytambo before transferring back to Cusco.
Explore Cusco's Incan history
Day 7 in Cusco
Your tour of Cusco will take in the immense stone complex of Sacsayhuaman. It might feel huge, but the ruins only account for 20% of the original structure, with the rest torn down by Spanish conquistadors. You'll also have the chance to visit Koricancha, which was once the richest temple in the Inca empire, with temple walls lined with solid gold.
Tour Lima and international departure
Day 8 in Lima
Your last day brings a guided tour of the Miraflores district of Lima, visits to the Larco Archeology Museum and the San Francisco monastery, as well as a chance to sample some of Lima's cuisine.
Your trip concludes with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Where to stay
Superior
The Heritage House
The Heritage House on the rugged Mendocino coast is truly the “Jewel of the Coast,” designed to soothe and inspire. Luxurious rooms are outfitted with high-quality linens, relaxing sitting areas, and breathtaking views, and the bright restaurant with panoramic windows offers unforgettable farm-to-fork dining experiences. When not exploring the Heritage House’s 37-acre sanctuary, sample a delicious local wine or indulge in a nightcap accompanied by s’mores you roast yourself over a modern fire pit.
Superior
Tenaya Lodge
Tenaya Lodge is an unrivalled all-season resort located just two miles from Yosemite National Park's south gate. Choose from a spacious lodge room or a stand-alone Explorer Cabin, and enjoy multiple restaurants and pool areas when not exploring the country's first National Park. Make some time for a little indulgence at the Ascent Spa, challenge your family members to billiards in the game room, and participate in daily guided nature hikes at Tenaya.
Superior
Huff House Inn
This high-end Bed & Breakfast combine historic charm with contemporary design, offering cozy rooms just blocks from Jackson Hole’s main square. The property offers a great space to relax in your down time where you can enjoy the secluded garden patio, hot tub, gas firepits, or perhaps for those with a sweet tooth, enjoy happy hour accompanied by one of their delicious daily, homemade cookies. The updated, modern rooms offer minimal, local décor that, when paired with first class hospitality, create the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
Boutique
Hualapai Lodge
Sitting right on the original historic Route 66, Hualapai Lodge is ideal for those looking for adventure. Rooms are well appointed and act as a comfortable base for travelers who wish to spend their days hiking, fishing, rafting, as well as other outdoor activities.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from $3,190pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
Other itineraries you might like
Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines, and Lake Titicaca
In-depth discovery of Peru's culture and history
13 daysFrom $2,959| Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Nazca | |
|
Custom itinerary, Private guided tour |
|
Family, Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Photography, National Parks, Culture, Archaeology, Cities, Museums & Galleries, History, Culinary, Food |
Your adventure awaits
Speak to SA Expeditions for expert advice
This tour is operated by
SA Expeditions
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