Ancient Cities & the Inca Trail

Day 1  Lima        
Arrive into Lima and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2  Lima        
Learn about Lima’s fascinating history and see the wonderful highlights of this dynamic city with a guided tour.

Day 3  Lima to the Sacred Valley        
Fly to Cusco and drive into the stunning Sacred Valley. En route visit an Andean textile centre to see traditional weaving techniques.

Day 4  Sacred Valley        
The Sacred Valley is full of Inca history and, with the backdrop of the Andes mountains, the scenery is breathtaking. Marvel at the ruins of Ollantaytambo and shop for local handicrafts.

Day 5  Inca Trail: Sacred Valley to Wayllabamba        
Rise early and drive to the starting point of the Inca Trail. Walk to the first camp (5-6 hours) past the impressive Inca ruins of Llactapata and through pretty valleys lying in the shadow of snow-capped mountains. Your Inca Trail experience will be on a private basis, with an experienced trek guide and porters to help carry your belongings.

Day 6  Inca Trail: Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo        
This full day hike (6-7 hours) begins with a steep climb to the highest point on the trail, the Abra Warmihuañusca or Dead Woman’s Pass. Descend into the Pacaymayo Valley to reach the second camp.

Day 7  Inca Trail: Pacaymayo to Wiñay Wayna
The longest day of the trek (8 hours) takes you through lush cloud forest and beautiful mountain scenery.

Day 8  Inca Trail: Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu        
Enjoy your last day of hiking (4 hours). Rise early and walk to Intipunku (the Sun Gate) for an incredible view over Machu Picchu. Descend the mountain to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 9  Machu Picchu to Cusco        
Return to the ruins and be awed as your guide brings the history of this Inca citadel to life. Later this afternoon return to Cusco by train.

Day 10  Cusco        
Put your feet up with a well deserved morning at leisure before seeing the highlights of Cusco in the afternoon with a guided tour.

Day 11  Cusco        
Today is free for you to wander the cobbled streets of this beautiful city. Ask your travel consultant about adding a cooking class to create (and taste!) delicious Peruvian cuisine.

Day 12  Cusco to Lima      
Transfer to the airport and fly back to Lima for your onward arrangements.