Qhapaq Ñan trek to Huanuco Pampa
Explore Peru's grand route of the Incas
Go on an Incan adventure in Peru by combining a trip to culture-rich Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley with a trek along the forgotten Great Inca Trail from Huaraz to Huanuco Pampa.
Start your trip in Lima before heading marvelling at the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, historical Cusco and the ruins of the Sacred Valley. Then, journey to Huaraz where you'll pick up the Great Inca Trail, passing through Andean mountains and along river basins, camping out under the stars as you learn more about this fascinating culture.
Key information
| Destinations | Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Huaraz |
|---|---|
| Activity | Adventure, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Nature & Wildlife |
| Physical Level | Strenuous |
 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.
Sightseeing in Cusco
Day 2 in Cusco
After an early morning flight from Lima to Cusco, your guide will take you on an afternoon tour of Cusco, capital of the Incan Empire. See the Incan complex of Sacsayhuaman, the temple of Koricancha and Cusco's cathedral for art and historical artefacts.
Explore the Sacred Valley
Day 3 in Sacred Valley
Begin your private Sacred Valley tour at the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, before visiting the salt mines of Maras and the ruins of Ollantaytambo. From here, you'll take a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Experience Machu Picchu
Day 4 in Machu Picchu
Your private guided tour of Machu Picchu will take in all the sights of this world-famous Incan citadel, visiting the most important parts of the ruins. You'll also have the chance to hike to the top of Huayna Picchu for a bird's eye view of the valley.
After taking your fill of the ancient ruins, you'll depart Aguas Calientes by train to Ollantaytambo before being transferred back to your hotel in Cusco.
Cusco to Huaraz transfer
Day 5 in Cusco
An early morning flight takes you back to Lima, where you'll board a first-class bus transferring you to Huaraz. The scenic, mountainous route takes 7-8 hours to complete.
Hike the Qhapaq Ñan route to Huanuco Pampa
Day 6–10 in Huaraz
Starting from the small town of Castillo, you'll head along the Inca Trail to Soledad de Tambo before veering onto the Qhapac Ñan and heading high into the Andean peaks. You'll meet artisan weavers in Quenuajirca, travel along the Taparaco reiver basin and camp under starlit skies at Tambo Grande before ending in the ancient Incan administrative centre Huanuco Pampa. Along the way, your guides will teach about the history of the Incas, explore ancient ruins and explain the amazing engineering feats this society achieved.
Transfer from Huaraz to Lima
Day 11 in Huaraz
You'll head back to the bus station in Huaraz for your first-class coach back to Lima.
Guided tour of Lima
Day 12 in Lima
Your last day brings a guided tour of the Miraflores district of Lima, visits to the Larco Archeology Museum and colonial Casa Aliaga, 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 $3,790pp. 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.
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In-depth discovery of Peru's culture and history
13 daysFrom $2,959| Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Nazca | |
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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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