Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. At 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, this charming city welcomes us with its blend of ancient Inca heritage and colonial allure. Upon arrival, we’ll take you to your hotel to acclimate before an afternoon exploration of the city’s most iconic sites.

In the afternoon, we will visit the Koricancha Temple, an important religious site of the Incas, that once was adorned with walls of solid gold. Next, it’s time to explore the Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial architecture housing an impressive collection of paintings from the School of Arte Cusqueño. Later, we will wander through Sacsayhuamán, a massive fortress built with large stones weighing up to 200 tons. Then, Tambomachay, known as the “Bath of the Inca”, Puca Pucara and the ceremonial site of Qenqo, await our exploration.

Today, we set out on a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region of breathtaking beauty and deep historical significance. Our journey begins in Maras, home to the remarkable terraced salt mines that have been in use since Inca times and create a fantastic contrast against the Andean landscape. Then we visit the enigmatic site of Moray: circular agricultural terraces that showcase the advanced farming knowledge and practices.   

Continuing north, Ollantaytambo fortress welcomes us to magnificent stone terraces with spectacular views of the valley.  The charming village of Pisac, famous for its traditional open-air market, provides the perfect opportunity to interact with locals, experience Andean culture firsthand, and perhaps take home a unique souvenir.

As the sun sets over the mountains, we carry with us the beauty of this sacred land into a restful night in this breathtaking valley.

Morning transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the Vistadome train, featuring panoramic windows for breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. As we wind through the Andean mountains, watch the landscape shift from rugged peaks to lush cloud forests, a preview of the world that awaits.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we take a short bus ride up the winding road to Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca civilization. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1911, this UNESCO Site remains one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. With our expert guide, we will explore one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth and its most iconic areas, while unraveling the mysteries behind its construction and purpose.

In the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes to board the Vistadome train to Poroy. From there, a private transfer takes us back to our Cusco hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Enjoy a final morning in Cusco before your transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima. If time allows, consider extending your journey—our destination specialists can craft the perfect itinerary to continue your Peru adventure or even comprehensive multi-country exploration.