Machu Picchu & Peru Travel

Fly to Cusco and make your way to the famous ruins and terraces of Pisac, hike down to the market from there!

Fill up with a complimentary buffet breakfast in the hotel before catching your morning flight to Cusco. The flight time between the two cities is welcomingly short (less than an hour and a half). The views from the plane window – the desert coast at first before the needle-like peaks of the Andes come into view – are a great distraction to pass the time.

We will be waiting for you when you touch down at our Andean airport and will bring you to the historic city center of Cusco for a delicious early lunch.

Then, before you can feel the altitude, we’ll whisk you into the Sacred Valley. Just an hour outside of Cusco, true Peruvian countryside will stretch away on either side of you, cows and sheep grazing tranquilly on the roadside. Impossibly steep peaks rise in the distance.

Your journey will take you to the ruins nestled in the mountains above the pueblo of Pisac, where you’ll learn about Incan agricultural practices cultivating corn and potatoes. From here, you’ll be able to see the verdant farmland where the Incas once cultivated their crops and where modern-day Quechua people continue to farm.

From here, you’ll descend on a leisurely hike through terraces and breathtaking scenery to the vibrant market in Pisac’s main square – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items that are sold here. Later, return to the hotel of your choice.

Experience the thrills of an ATV ride through the Valley and climb the Via Ferrata to one of the most unique lodges in the world.

Today’s journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas will start with an ATV adventure, taking you at high speeds through rural paths and agricultural lands. Once you’ve got the lay of the land from a high-speed vehicle on firm ground, it’s time to head into the air.

Enjoy a fresh, gourmet lunch, and receive a safety briefing on the harnesses and helmets that will become like your second skin tonight. Masterfully climb your way up what seems like a sheer cliff face, using steel rungs as your guide.

After a 1,500 ft. ascent, you’ll arrive at your one-of-a-kind luxury hotel for the evening – a glass pod dangling off the cliff face, providing 300-degree views of the Sacred Valley below you!

Although it may surprise some, be prepared for a well-earned and truly gourmet meal, enjoyed with a fine glass of red wine and the best possible scenery. Marvel at the thousands of stars visible above you – you might even call this a thousand-star hotel – and tuck yourself into your comfy bed complete with a real mattress and cozy down comforter.

Zip back down to earth this morning and spend the afternoon riding the famous Peruvian Paso horse through the Sacred Valley.

Wake up to one of the best views ever and look around you – did you forget you slept hundreds of meters in the air in a capsule bolted to a cliff? Enjoy an al fresco breakfast and get ready to zip back down the mountain.

Through six zip lines crisscrossing the path you took yesterday to arrive at your one-of-a-kind suite, you’ll return to the valley floor. Bid your harness and helmet farewell and return to your hotel for a scrumptious lunch. Then, we’re off again! Commune with a four-legged friend and experience the smoothest gait of any horse worldwide – that of the Peruvian Paso Fino horse. Trot through the countryside and return in time for an evening at leisure in the Sacred Valley.

Trek through the land of the Incas on their famous trail to the Machu Picchu Citadel.

Today, prepare to walk in the footsteps of the Inca and arrive proudly on foot at Machu Picchu. We’ll collect you from your hotel bright and early this morning and drive through the picturesque Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we’ll board the luxury Vistadome train.

You and your guide will disembark the train at the Inca Trail trailhead found at Kilometer 104, and from here you will walk the lovely uphill path to the ruins of Wiñaywayna. As you walk, your guide will point out orchids and other jungle plants, the Urubamba River will rush below you, and you’ll marvel at the Inca’s strength and ingenuity. When you reach the ruins of Wiñaywayna, you’ll rest up, explore, and enjoy a delicious al fresco lunch.

Then you’ll hit the trail once again! A walk of approximately two hours brings you to Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate.

You’ll approach this stone construction up one last flight of stairs, catch your breath, and then lose it again as you see Machu Picchu, nestled and hidden between steep peaks below you.

Descend triumphantly over ancient paving stones to the lost citadel, and relish in the audacity of a construction of this caliber in this stunning location before catching the bus to Aguas Calientes and checking in to your hotel. Your guide will then leave you to rest, refresh, and enjoy a delicious and well-earned dinner on-site.

Hike one of the coveted, limited-entry hikes, Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you how you would like to culminate your Machu Picchu luxury tour. Feeling adventurous? Consider hiking the steep slope of neighboring Huayna Picchu, which offers unrivaled views over Machu Picchu.

Please note that only a limited number of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Inkas Blood host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-deserved good night’s rest.

Explore Cusco’s surrounding hills by mountain bike, and explore its hidden cobblestone streets on a private tour.

This morning it’s off to explore the hills surrounding Cusco via mountain bike! Strap on your helmet and it’s off we go, through the greater Sacsayhuaman National Park. Keep an eye out for unmarked and seldom-visited Incan ruins.

After lunch, you’ll continue your journey through Cusco – a picturesque city that is loved by travelers from all over the world. Wander through the cobblestone streets in the company of your guide who will help illuminate the history of this colonial city. As you explore the city’s sights, Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, Cusco’s striking cultural blend will soon become apparent.

Roam the atmospheric streets of the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, which is known for its free-spirited scene; see where the locals make their grocery runs at the open-air San Pedro market and pass the famous 12-angled stone, whose image appears on the bottle of the local Cusqueña beer.

Navigate Peru’s white water in the Southern Valley on the Upper Urubamba River

Wake up with a gleam in your eye, for a day of adventure lies ahead! After breakfast, your private driver will meet you at your hotel and whisk you over the hills surrounding Cusco into the beautiful purple countryside beyond. You’ll pass fields with grazing cows and sheep, tended by women in full skirts and traditional braids, adobe houses, and colonial churches. Enjoy the feeling of freedom in the country air.

After ninety minutes, you’ll arrive in the small town of Chuquicahuana where you will receive a safety briefing with procedures for the start of your adventure at the Upper Urubamba River. Here, you will work together to prepare the equipment and inflate the rafts before gearing up and climbing in.

You’ll spend three hours navigating the river as a team and taking in the stunning scenery – dry mountains, green fields, small farmsteads, and an incredibly big blue sky. You’ll even take on class III and class IV rapids, so prepare to get a little wet.

When you disembark, relish an al fresco lunch and then relax as we drive you back to your hotel in Cusco for an evening at leisure.

Return to “The City of Kings” for an afternoon of paragliding and or time at your leisure.

This morning, you can continue your exploration of the city of Cusco, or have a lie-in and enjoy the comforts of your hotel. At the appropriate time mid-day, we will bring you to the Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. Your Inkas Blood Lima host will meet you upon arrival and bring you to Miraflores pier, where your instructor will give you a safety briefing for your tandem paragliding tour.

Take a running leap of faith into the air and enjoy the spectacular views over the ocean and the seaside district of Miraflores, where you will find manicured parks and laid-back surfers, all overlooking one of Lima’s most popular neighborhoods. After your flight, you’ll have some free time to explore at leisure and grab a bite to eat at one of the neighborhood’s award-winning restaurants.

Soar over a 2,000-year-old mystery and surf the sand dunes of Huacachina

After you’ve finished a nutritious breakfast, your guide and private driver will meet you at your hotel. Then, it’s through the arid but beautiful countryside on a road trip adventure. After approximately four hours you will reach Ica, where you will board the small plane ready to take you soaring over the world-renowned Nazca Lines.

Created by the Nazca people between 400 and 650AD, the purpose of these massive earthworks is still shrouded in mystery. Experts suspect they were related to Nazca cosmology and religious worship, but you can form your own hypothesis as you fly above them! You’ll touch back down after approximately 90 minutes, enjoy a box lunch, and make your way to the iconic oasis of Huacachina.

This oasis – crystal clear water and palm trees surrounded by sand as far as the eyes can see – is home to some of the best dune buggy adventures in the world. Grab your sunglasses and strap in for a wild ride. Cruise over the dunes and partake in a thrilling sandboarding lesson before pausing to watch the sunset over the expanse of dunes.

Return to the Oasis where your private vehicle will be waiting to bring you to your hotel in Paracas, approximately 40 minutes away.

Paracas, with its incredible biodiversity, beautiful coastal landscapes, and remote location is often referred to as Peru’s “mini Galapagos”. A treasure of a destination, Paracas will give you the experience of getting up close and personal with Peru’s coastal wildlife: we’ll meet you in the hotel lobby and then bring you to the Paracas Peninsula harbor.

We’ll board a speedboat and enjoy a scenic ride through an area often called the “Galapagos of Peru”. Here, the cold plankton-rich Humboldt Current meets warmer tropical waters, creating ideal feeding grounds for a host of wildlife: pelicans, flamingoes, Inca terns, sea lions, penguins, hammerhead sharks, and even whales. As we speed toward the islands, you’ll see the mysterious ancient earthwork – the Candelabro.

Your guide will expand on the various theories about its creation and meaning, although no one has yet convincingly illuminated its past. You’ll touch back down after 35 minutes and make your way back to your private car, where you will enjoy a relaxing drive back to the capital.

At the appropriate time, we will bring you to the airport for your journey home. Your host will help you to check in to your international flight and wish you buen viaje!

Like the sound of this Peru Adventure private tour? Get in touch with Inkas Blood and we’ll start crafting your very own customized private travel experience to Peru!

Fly to Cusco and visit the Awanakancha Living Museum in Sacred Valley.

We’ll escort you back to the airport for your morning flight to Cusco in the morning. Watch the windows as the desert coast rises into the snow-capped peaks of the Andes!

Upon touching down in Cusco, we’ll bring you out for a tasty lunch, before taking you to the Sacred Valley, where the lower altitudes make it easier to acclimatize. Just 15 minutes outside of Cusco, true Peruvian countryside will stretch away on either side of you as impossibly steep peaks rise in the distance. Our first stop is at Awanakancha Living Museum. At this “living museum,” you’ll come face-to-face with some of South America’s most endearing inhabitants, including alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about traditional weaving.

Tour an ancient local hacienda and stop by the agricultural ruins and vibrant market of Pisac.

After breakfast, your journey will take you to an ancient hacienda, nestled in the fertile valley next to the pueblo of Pisac. Step onto the family-owned hacienda grounds and step into centuries past while your hosts expound upon the growing process of Giant White Corn and its profound cultural significance in the Andes Mountains. This hacienda dates back generations, and you’ll immediately be immersed in local customs steeped in the spirits and mysticism of the Andes, and embraced by the warmth of local Peruvians.

Relish your time on the farm with a delicious multi-course lunch with sample dishes featuring none other than the “white gold” giant-kernelled corn, and make sure to visit the on-site stables housing the renowned Peruvian Paso horses. Watch the horses dance with their human counterparts in a “marinera” demonstration, and even go for a quick trot yourself if you feel up to the task!

From there, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items that are sold here.

From here, continue up the mountain in your private vehicle for today’s final stop at the ruins overlooking Pisac. Here, you’ll learn about the complexity of the Incan agricultural system, and their methods of cultivating thousands of varieties of corn and potatoes, and you’ll watch the sun sink over the tips of the Andes Mountains surrounding you.

Meet with an Andean shaman for a traditional wedding ceremony and offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth)!

Performed by an Andean shaman amidst the splendor of Peru’s sierra, and in the presence of the Apus (mountain spirits) and Pachamama (Mother Earth), an Andean wedding ceremony is an incredibly mystical and meaningful way for a couple to bind their lives together or renew their vows to one another.

The ceremony begins in the morning and will include rites of purification and flowering, as well as rites of the four elements – water (purity), fire (strength), air (the Apus), and earth (Pachamama). Together with the help of your shaman, you will make an offering to Pachamama, asking that she protect your union, before exchanging symbolic presents and drink to ensure the strength of your union.

Enjoy a morning train through the cloud forest and visit the Machu Picchu Citadel.

In the morning, we will board the train in Ollantaytambo for our journey to Machu Picchu. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows! Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, we’ll tuck into an early lunch in order to refuel before ascending to Peru’s lost citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of this wonder of the world, you will pass through the main gates with your private guide to finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone construction will be spread below, alternately hidden and revealed by clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Get ready to experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the one and only, Machu Picchu.

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you how you would like to culminate your Machu Picchu luxury tour. Feeling adventurous? Consider hiking the steep slope of neighboring Huayna Picchu, which offers unrivaled views over Machu Picchu. Please note that only a limited number of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-deserved good night’s rest.

Visit the Huayoccari Hacienda for an enchanting horseback ride and gourmet lunch.

After breakfast this morning, we are visiting the Hacienda of Huayoccari. Tucked away in the lush, vegetation-filled private estate of the Lambarri-Orihuela family, this centuries-old hacienda is still family-owned and operated. As you walk through the hacienda, remember to stop and look at the private collection of pre-Columbian, Inca, and colonial artifacts including an impressive collection of ‘Qeros,’ the traditional drinking vessels.

You will start the morning by taking a tour on horseback off-the-beaten-path communities surrounding the hacienda. Peruvian Fine-Step horses, or “Peruvian Paso” horses, are small and elegant creatures known for their smooth gait and friendly disposition. Afterward, return to the Huayoccari Hacienda for a delicious fresh gourmet lunch.

Explore the hidden cobblestone streets of historical Cusco and taste your way through the most iconic Peruvian products.

It’s time to get acquainted with Cusco, a romantic city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. After breakfast, meet your guide and wander among the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors. Return to the city and roam the atmospheric streets of the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, which is known for its free-spirited scene. Explore Coricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery (a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun); see where the locals make their grocery runs at the open-air San Pedro market and pass the famous 12-angled stone, whose image appears on the bottle of the local Cusqueña beer.

At the end of the tour, your guide will suggest places to enjoy a delicious local lunch.

Fly from Cusco to Tumbes via Lima and settle into your beachside resort.

From the mountains to the coastline, Peru is ready to offer you something spectacular. Early this morning we will pick you up from your Cusco hotel to continue your romantic encounter or Peru honeymoon on Peru’s northern beaches. We will send you on your way to Tumbes in the north of Peru via a connecting flight to Lima.

A host from your beachside resort will be waiting to meet you at the airport in Tumbes, ready to accompany you on a breathtaking coastal road trip to Mancora.

Check in to your beautiful hotel and instantly begin enjoying its comforts on this simply lovely stretch of coast.

Spend the day soaking in the serenity of this tranquil corner of Peru.

Spend the day reveling in the luxury and tranquility of your hotel and enjoying these wonderful beaches. Relax, take a surf lesson, or ask your hotel about sites of interest and places to visit whilst you are here.

One more beach day on your romantic honeymoon in Peru? Yes, please. Enjoy a day of leisure, with activities like snorkeling in the lively Organos Bay, and discover its unique marine wonder world, including a coral reef and its colorful inhabitants. This beautiful bay is an ideal spot to enjoy snorkeling, an activity suitable for almost every level of expertise.

If it is your first time snorkeling, you will be given some basic techniques so that you will be able to learn all you need in just one day. The only requisite is to know how to swim! Delight your senses and encounter the magic of the northern coast.

Bid farewell to Peru!

After nearly two weeks of unforgettable memories made in Peru, it’s time to depart home. First, we’ll bring you to Tumbes airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to a restaurant in Costa del Sol before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen viaje!

Intimate, personalized, and a romantic experience all around, this Andean getaway makes for the perfect honeymoon in Peru. Get in touch with Kuoda and we’ll start crafting your very own customized private travel experience to Peru for you and your loved one!

Fly to Puerto Maldonado and embark on your Amazon jungle adventure!

Your Kuoda host will take you to the airport early in the morning for your flight to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival, you’ll be escorted by boat to the Refugio Amazonas Lodge in Tambopata for an Amazon luxury travel experience. Lunch will be served en route.

After enjoying a sunset dinner, you will venture out on a guided tour of the nocturnal rainforest. Armed with flashlights and headlamps, you will discover a world inhabited by amphibians, reptiles, and insects that have adapted to life in the darkness. After your exploration, fall asleep to a symphony of jungle sounds.

Embark on the ultimate jungle excursion.

Early this morning, embark on a guided trek through the jungle past the hanging nests of Oropendola birds and fruit bats. Walk until you reach a tranquil jungle of waterways, the Oxbow Lake, with a majestic array of life swimming just under the surface.

Climb aboard a traditional wooden canoe with your guide to see what wildlife you can spot! You will have a chance to see the Hoatzin, a bizarre, dinosaur-looking bird, along with troops of Squirrel Monkeys, rare Giant Otters, huge Caiman, and majestic Macaws flying overhead.

When your river tour is over, wave “goodbye” to the otters and start hiking through the jungle trails toward the Canopy Observation Tower, an impressive 25-meter jungle tower. Once on top, you will have a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent forest stretching in every direction. See if you can spot monkeys, Toucans, macaws, and other exotic jungle animals.

After lunch, set out to visit Don Manuel’s Amazonian farm. Here you will learn about the variety of popular and exotic Amazon produce he grows, giving you a deeper understanding of how every plant and tree you see serves a purpose.

A day enjoying jungle excursions: parrot and mammal clay licks.

At dawn this morning, you will have the opportunity to spot amazing tropical birds, while learning about a strange jungle diet. You will either take a 15-minute boat ride or a 60-minute walk through the jungle to a clay lick used by parrots and parakeets. Watch the wildlife from a well-hidden viewing platform built from clay and thatch. Here, you can get a super close look at the various species of birds as they descend to munch on nutrient-rich clay.

Researchers at the Macaw Project have studied these larger birds as they eat clay around the region and they believe that these animals eat the clay to supplement salt in their diet as they live far away from any ocean. Watch them enjoy their strange breakfast and see for yourself!

In the afternoon, take a short walk to another clay cliff that attracts dozens of species, especially mammals, who come to eat on the salty clay. The most well-known of these mammals are the White-Lipped Peccaries. These are wild rainforest pigs that show up in herds of 5 to 25 individuals to eat clay in the late morning. The chances of spotting them are around 15% but are well worth the short hike. Other wildlife also shows up including deer, guan, and parakeets.

Return to the lodge for one final night in the Amazonian Jungle.

Fly to Cusco, visit a local project that promotes sustainable weaving practices, and relax in the breathtaking Andean countryside.

After breakfast, we will bid goodbye to the Amazon jungle as the Refugio Amazonas team will escort you back to Puerto Maldonado. From the airport, you will embark on a flight to Cusco. Once you land, a guide will accompany you to the stunning Sacred Valley, whose bucolic farming and weaving towns – a few thousand feet lower in elevation than Cusco – are ideal for acclimatizing.

On the way to the valley, stop at Awanakancha Living Museum. At this “living museum,” you’ll come face-to-face with some of South America’s most endearing inhabitants, including alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos, and learn about traditional weaving.

Visit Ollantaytambo’s iconic ruins and Pisac market.

Start your tour of the Sacred Valley in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, where the centuries-old influence of the Incas is still very much visible. Water from the mountains trickles down to the Inca-built street canals, while the original Inca walls and trapezoidal doors are still standing.

With your guide by your side, ascend beyond the slope-side terraces to the ruins of a centuries-old fortress above the town. This is the spot where the Incas secured an important victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Inspect the intricately hewn stone constructions and have your guide show you the distant quarries from which the Incas sourced their materials. This site also affords fabulous views of the valley and the Urubamba River that meanders through it.

Afterward, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items sold here.

End the day with one more archaeological site visit, this time to the abandoned mountainside ruins of the original Inca Pisac village. Look out across verdant Inca farmland that has since been transformed into agricultural farms for modern-day Quechua people. Later, return to the hotel of your choice.

Relax with a morning train through the cloud forest on your way to visit Machu Picchu!

This is the moment all Peruvian explorers wait for. Board the train in Ollantaytambo to begin your Machu Picchu journey. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows, and see if you can spot some alpacas grazing in the valley! When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, enjoy an early lunch before ascending to the lost Incan citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of South America’s most notable wonder, you will finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone citadel will reveal itself to you as you enter the main gates, a city intertwined with the clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want. Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten-path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu.

Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-earned evening of rest.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco’s cobblestone streets on a private city tour!

Prepare to fall in love with Cusco, a gorgeous city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. A private tour is the best way to learn about this historic city, and get the best insider secrets! After breakfast, meet your guide and wander among the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors.

Return to the city and venture through the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a hub of artistic inspiration. Explore Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun. Live like a local and grab some groceries in the open-air San Pedro market for a delightful shopping experience!

At the end of the tour, your guide will suggest a few places to enjoy a delicious lunch.

Fly from Cusco to Juliaca and visit the famous Chullpas of Sillustani on your way to Puno.

This morning we will bring you to the Cusco airport for your flight to Juliaca, the jumping-off point for Lake Titicaca.

From Juliaca airport, your guide will set off on a drive to the high plains of Peru. Your first stop will be the Lagoon of Umayo, where you will see ancient family tombs from the Colla Civilization called Chullpas of Sillustani. Finally, as we descend the hills into Puno, Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, will appear before you, filling the landscape to the horizon.

Explore life on Lake Titicaca with your private tour.

Today, you’ll enjoy an expert private tour of Lake Titicaca. Sail to the floating islands of Uros, home to an ancient community whose lineage stretches back to pre-Inca times. Thanks to their self-made reed islands, which require continual renovation, the Uros people have managed to preserve their unique way of life and survive not just the Incas and the Spanish, but also the threat of encroaching modernity. Learn about their daily lifestyle maintaining these unique islands!

Next, sail out to Taquile Island, whose residents are honored by UNESCO for their artisanal weaving skills. Eat a lunch prepared by the hospitable islanders, before returning to Puno for a transfer to your hotel of choice.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru!

Going home is the worst part of any private Peru vacation, but at Kuoda, we’ll do our best to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. First, we’ll bring you to Juliaca airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to the seaside bohemian district of Barranco. See the streets of Barranco come alive as you visit a number of local art galleries and shops that support local artisans.

Finally, enjoy a first-class gourmet meal featuring world-renowned Peruvian flavors in a restaurant of your choice before returning to the airport for your journey home. Buen Viaje!

Fly to Puerto Maldonado where the Amazon expedition begins.

In the morning, your Kuoda host will escort you to the airport for a flight to Puerto Maldonado. A travel guide from your jungle hotel will be waiting when you land and captain the boat to the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica lodge. Upon arrival, you will be served a delicious lunch with fresh-pressed juices.

Embark on a guided jungle walk along the Reserva Amazonica natural area, where you will find Shihuahuaco trees that can grow to the heights of 50 meters (164 feet) and a diameter of 1 meter (3.3 feet) over the course of 700 years. Learn about the strangler fig trees, or matapalos, and spot exotic jungle birds and insects.

As the sun sets, enjoy a twilight tiver excursion watching the jungle transform into an energetic nocturnal world. Spot unique mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects that thrive in the darkness, and enjoy their peaceful songs as you fall asleep in the ecolodge.

Embark on the ultimate jungle excursion.

After a serene sunrise breakfast, sail to Lake Sandoval, gliding through the Amazon river in a wooden canoe. Voyage a captivating oxbow lake and see if you can spot one of the endangered river otters. Other wild inhabitants here include red howler monkeys, red-bellied macaws, anacondas, sick-neck turtles, and more.

Nourish yourself with an energizing lunch before exploring the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway. Here, you’ll wander across eight observation platforms, located 30 meters high in the jungle canopies, linked by suspension bridges. Be on the lookout for toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, monkeys, and the three-toed sloth. After your descent, stroll along the Anaconda Walk and observe various species of amphibians, birds, mammals, and the lush foliage of this seasonally flooded marshland.

Trek the dark-water creek and take a daring late-night jungle excursion.

It’s another early morning today, as you set off to investigate Gamitana creek. Embrace the exciting wildlife research opportunities on this winding dark-water creek, home to piranhas, caiman, turtles, and birds. Afterward, visit Gamitana Model Farm and learn about Amazonian agriculture. You’ll even get the chance to make your own plantain flour used to make bread back at the lodge.

After lunch, it is a 35-minute boat ride upstream to the Hacienda Concepcion – an extraordinary botanical garden with over 200 different species of flora and fauna. After a calming afternoon, prepare for a daring Rainforest by Night experience hosted by the Inkaterra Ecological Reserve. Venture into the forest and spot creatures that only come out to play at night.

Fly to Cusco, visit a local project that promotes sustainable weaving practices and relax in the breathtaking Andean countryside.

After breakfast, we will bid goodbye to the Amazon jungle as the Refugio Amazonas team will escort you back to Puerto Maldonado. From the airport, you will embark on a flight to Cusco. Once you land, a guide will accompany you to the stunning Sacred Valley, whose bucolic farming and weaving towns – a few thousand feet lower in elevation than Cusco – are ideal for acclimatizing. On the way to the valley, stop at Awanakancha Living Museum.

At this “living museum,” you’ll come face-to-face with some of South America’s most endearing inhabitants, including alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos, and learn about traditional weaving.

Visit Ollantaytambo’s iconic ruins and Pisac market.

Start your tour of the Sacred Valley in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, where the centuries-old influence of the Incas is still very much visible. Water from the mountains trickles down to the Inca-built street canals, while the original Inca walls and trapezoidal doors are still standing.

With your guide by your side, ascend beyond the slope-side terraces to the ruins of a centuries-old fortress above the town. This is the spot where the Incas secured an important victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Inspect the intricately hewn stone constructions and have your guide show you the distant quarries from which the Incas sourced their materials. This site also affords fabulous views of the valley and the Urubamba River that meanders through it.

Afterward, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items sold here.

End the day with one more archaeological site visit, this time to the abandoned mountainside ruins of the original Inca Pisac village. Look out across verdant Inca farmland that has since been transformed into agricultural farms for modern-day Quechua people. Later, return to the hotel of your choice.

Relax with a morning train through the cloud forest on your way to visit Machu Picchu!

This is the moment all Peruvian explorers wait for. Board the train in Ollantaytambo to begin your Machu Picchu journey. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows, and see if you can spot some alpacas grazing in the valley! When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, enjoy an early lunch before ascending to the lost Incan citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of South America’s most notable wonder, you will finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone citadel will reveal itself to you as you enter the main gates, a city intertwined with the clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want. Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten-path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu.

Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-earned evening of rest.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco’s cobblestone streets on a private city tour!

Prepare to fall in love with Cusco, a gorgeous city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. A private tour is the best way to learn about this historic city, and get the best insider secrets! After breakfast, meet your guide and wander among the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors. Return to the city and venture through the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a hub of artistic inspiration.

Explore Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun. Live like a local and grab some groceries in the open-air San Pedro market for a delightful shopping experience!

At the end of the tour, your guide will suggest a few places to enjoy a delicious lunch.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru!

Going home is the worst part of any private Peru vacation, but at Kuoda, we’ll do our best to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. First, we’ll bring you to Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to the seaside bohemian district of Barranco. See the streets of Barranco come alive as you visit a number of local art galleries and shops that support local artisans.

Finally, enjoy a first-class gourmet meal featuring world-renowned Peruvian flavors in a restaurant of your choice before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen Viaje!

Discover the City of Kings.

After a refreshing sleep, enjoy a comfortable breakfast in your hotel. The morning is yours to enjoy, taking advantage of the comforts of your hotel or exploring vibrant Miraflores.

A Kuoda host will collect you at the appropriate time and bring you to the Pueblo Libre neighborhood, home to the Larco Herrera Museum.

Housing the country’s largest collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, gold and silver collections, as well as the infamous erotic archaeological collection, this museum is a unique experience. You’ll even have rare open access to their exquisitely cataloged storage area. Start with a delicious lunch lounging on the vine-covered terrace of the Museum’s café before exploring the exhibits.

Once your museum tour is over, it’s time to wander the “City of Kings,” where you’ll visit the Plaza Mayor, the Convent of San Francisco, and the Casa Aliaga, which is the western hemisphere’s oldest mansion and still owned and inhabited by the 17th generation of the Aliaga family. There are so many surprising secrets to learn around the city, like finding out where the subterranean catacombs are hidden.

Upon completion of your tour, you’ll be guided back to the hotel and we will provide a few suggestions for dinner and entertainment within walking distance of Miraflores.

Fly to Cusco and tour an ancient local hacienda, the Pisac Market, and the Peruvian countryside.

This morning we’ll escort you back to the airport for your morning flight to Cusco, where desert transforms into snow-capped Andean mountains before your eyes. On land, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Peruvian countryside that surrounds you on the drive to an ancient hacienda. Nestled in the fertile valley next to the pueblo of Pisac, this family-owned hacienda will transport you to centuries past.

Learn about the growing process of Giant White Corn and its profound cultural significance in the Andes Mountains. This is an incredible opportunity to learn local customs and study the spirits and mysticism of the Andes, embraced by the warmth of local Peruvians.

Relish your time on the farm dining on a multi-course lunch, sampling authentic dishes prepared with “white gold” giant-kernelled corn and other local ingredients. Be sure to visit the on-site stables housing the renowned Peruvian Paso horses. Marvel at the “marinera” demonstration, highlighting the animal’s unique dance. You may even go for a quick trot yourself if you feel brave!

Afterward, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items sold here. Shop here for a while before returning to your hotel.

Visit Ollantaytambo’s iconic ruins and explore the arts of the Sacred Valley.

Start your morning with a drive across the Patacancha Valley, where you will be able to hop out of the car and get a close look at the ruins of Pumamarca. Trek across this pre-Columbian trail made up of ancient irrigation canals that are still in use today!

After a serene hike, you will enter the town of Ollantaytambo, where the centuries-old influence of the Incas is still very much visible. Water from the mountains trickles down to the Inca-built street canals, while the original Inca walls and trapezoidal doors are still standing.

With your guide by your side, ascend beyond the slope-side terraces to the ruins of a centuries-old fortress above the town. This is the spot where the Incas secured an important victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Inspect the intricately hewn stone constructions and have your guide show you the distant quarries from which the Incas sourced their materials. This site also affords fabulous views of the valley and the Urubamba River that meanders through it.

After a bit of lunch featuring local flavors, relax in the car for a short drive to Kuoda’s favorite artist’s workshop, famous for handcrafted ceramics. Spend the afternoon laughing, learning, and creating hand-made souvenirs with Peruvian flair to bring home with you! Upon completion of your tour, we will bring you back to your hotel for an evening spent at leisure.

Relax with a morning train through the cloud forest on your way to visit Machu Picchu!

This is the moment all Peruvian explorers wait for. Board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to begin your Machu Picchu journey. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows, and see if you can spot some alpacas grazing in the valley! When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, enjoy an early lunch before ascending to the lost Incan citadel.

After a brief bus ride to the gates of South America’s most notable wonder, you will finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone citadel will reveal itself to you as you enter the main gates, a city intertwined with the clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return to your hotel for the evening, and enjoy a satisfying dinner at the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel before falling asleep to the sounds of the humming cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want. Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten-path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu.

Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, after high tea at the Sanctuary Lodge, descend to Aguas Calientes for your return trip on the Hiram Bingham train. You’ll enjoy a serene ride through the valley, a delicious dinner, and live music from local Andean performers.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco’s cobblestone streets and taste your wait through authentic Peruvian products.

Prepare to fall in love with Cusco, a gorgeous city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. A private tour is the best way to learn about this historic city, and get the best insider secrets! After breakfast, meet your guide and wander among the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors. Return to the city and venture through the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a hub of artistic inspiration.

Explore Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun. Live like a local and grab some groceries in the open-air San Pedro market for a delightful shopping experience!

At the end of the tour, your guide will suggest a few places to enjoy a delicious lunch, but be sure to save some room! You’ll want to indulge in the next adventure as much as possible.

During the afternoon, you will eat your way through Cusco on a culinary tour of the city. First stop? The Coffee Musem, whose aroma will embrace you like a warm morning cup. After a fascinating workshop on the history of coffee and the production process, you will make your way to the Chocolate Museum. Since you are in the birthplace of chocolate, this is a fantastic chance to learn about the rich, beloved treat. You’ll even get the chance to make your own chocolate truffles, a delectable souvenir.

To end the day, visit the Republica del Pisco and enjoy a tasting of the Peruvian spirit.

Enjoy a unique day in Maras and Moray Learning About Genius Incan Experiments

After breakfast, you’ll be taken to see the ancient agricultural site of Moray.

Experts today believe these grassy amphitheaters served as a farming laboratory. Varying temperatures and soils of the ascending terraces provided different growing environments that allowed the Incas to experiment with their crops. We’ll pass through the town of Maras – known for its beautiful colonial doorways – before arriving at the town’s salt pans. The small white evaporation pools are still harvested by locals in a traditional manner! We’ll pause for a delicious lunch where you’ll be able to sample some regional fare.

After eating, mingle with the locals during a visit to a hidden highland village on the shore of the icy blue Lake Piuray. This rural community subsists on agriculture and many of the women are master weavers, creating exquisite textiles using ancient techniques. You will have the opportunity to meet with the locals, visit their houses and fields, and experience what day-to-day life is like in the Andean highlands.

You might also get to meet some of the local children who attend Kuoda’s after-school program (Monday to Friday) – they love sharing their art with visitors.

Later, you’ll return to your comfortable hotel for the evening.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru!

Going home is the worst part of any private Peru vacation, but at Kuoda, we’ll do our best to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. First, we’ll bring you to Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to the seaside bohemian district of Barranco. See the streets of Barranco come alive as you visit a number of local art galleries and shops that support local artisans.

Finally, enjoy a first-class gourmet meal featuring world-renowned Peruvian flavors in a restaurant of your choice before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen Viaje!

Take a private colonial tour of Lima’s Historic Center and visit the renowned Larco Herrera Museum.

Wake up refreshed and enjoy breakfast in your hotel this morning. You have the morning to spend at your leisure, exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Miraflores, a foodie paradise.

At the appropriate time mid-day, we’ll collect you and bring you to the Pueblo Libre neighborhood, home to the Larco Herrera Museum.Housing the country’s largest collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including extensive gold and silver collections, as well as the infamous erotic archaeological collection and providing rare open access to their exquisitely cataloged storage area, this museum is the perfect introduction to Peru’s multi-faceted cultural history.

First, you’ll begin your visit with a delicious lunch enjoyed on the vine-covered terrace of the museum’s café, and then you’ll have time to explore the exhibits.

Next, we’ll delve into the heart of Peru’s “City of Kings,” where you’ll visit the Plaza Mayor, featuring the current President’s palace, the Convent of San Francisco (including subterranean catacombs!), and the Casa Aliaga, which is the western hemisphere’s oldest mansion and still owned and inhabited by the 17th generation of the Aliaga family.

Upon completion of your tour, we will bring you to an exclusive, highly praised restaurant in Lima such as Central or Maido, both currently on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.

Fly to Cusco to tour an ancient local hacienda and stop by the agricultural ruins and vibrant market of Pisac. We’ll escort you back to the airport for your morning flight to Cusco in the morning. Watch the windows as the desert coast rises into the snow-capped peaks of the Andes!

Your journey will take you to an ancient hacienda, nestled in the fertile valley next to the pueblo of Pisac.

Step onto the family-owned hacienda grounds and step into centuries past while your hosts expound upon the growing process of Giant White Corn and its profound cultural significance in the Andes Mountains.This hacienda dates back generations, and you’ll immediately be immersed in local customs steeped in the spirits and mysticism of the Andes, and embraced by the warmth of local Peruvians.

Relish your time on the farm with a delicious multi-course lunch with sample dishes featuring none other than the “white gold” giant-kernelled corn, and make sure to visit the on-site stables housing the renowned Peruvian Paso horses. Watch the horses dance with their human counterparts in a “marinera” demonstration, and even go for a quick trot yourself if you feel up to the task.

From there, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items that are sold here.

Visit Ollantaytambo’s iconic ruins and Pisac market.

Start your tour of the Sacred Valley in the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, where the centuries-old influence of the Incas is still very much visible. Water from the mountains trickles down to the Inca-built street canals, while the original Inca walls and trapezoidal doors are still standing.

With your guide by your side, ascend beyond the slope-side terraces to the ruins of a centuries-old fortress above the town. This is the spot where the Incas secured an important victory over the Spanish conquistadors. Inspect the intricately hewn stone constructions and have your guide show you the distant quarries from which the Incas sourced their materials. This site also affords fabulous views of the valley and the Urubamba River that meanders through it.

Afterward, your exclusive tour of Peru will take you to another valley town – Pisac – where you’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with locals as you survey the artisan offerings of the market. Vegetables, textiles, and silver jewelry are just some of the items sold here.

End the day with one more archaeological site visit, this time to the abandoned mountainside ruins of the original Inca Pisac village. Look out across verdant Inca farmland that has since been transformed into agricultural farms for modern-day Quechua people. Later, return to the hotel of your choice.

Enjoy a morning train through the cloud forest and visit the Machu Picchu Citadel.

In the morning, we will board the train in Ollantaytambo for our journey to Machu Picchu. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows! Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes, we’ll tuck into an early lunch in order to refuel before ascending to Peru’s lost citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of this wonder of the world, you will pass through the main gates with your private guide to finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone construction will be spread below, alternately hidden and revealed by clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want.

Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten-path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu. Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-earned evening of rest.

Connect with Andean locals and visit the Andean village of Maras and the famous archaeological site of Moray.

At Moray, experts today believe these grassy amphitheaters served as a farming laboratory, with the varying temperatures and soils of the ascending terraces providing different growing environments. We’ll pass through the town of Maras – known for its beautiful colonial doorways – before arriving at the town’s still-in-use salt pans. The small white evaporation pools that cover the hillside are still harvested by locals in a traditional manner. We’ll pause for a delicious local lunch, where you’ll be able to sample some regional fare.

Post lunch you’ll have a chance to mingle with the locals during a visit to an off-the-beaten-track highland village on the shore of the icy blue Lake Piuray. This rural community subsists on agriculture and many of the women are master weavers, creating exquisite textiles using generations-old techniques.

You will have the opportunity to communicate with the residents, visit their houses and fields, and experience what day-to-day life is like in the Andean highlands. If it is a weekday, you might also get to meet some of the local children who attend Kuoda’s after-school program – they love sharing their art with visitors. Later, you’ll return to your luxury hotel to privately enjoy the evening.

Explore the hidden cobblestone streets of historical Cusco and taste your way through the most iconic Peruvian products.

It’s time to get acquainted with Cusco, a picturesque city that is loved by travelers from all over the world. Wander through the cobblestone streets in the company of your guide who will help illuminate the history of this colonial city. As you explore the city’s sights, Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, Cusco’s striking cultural blend will soon become apparent.

Roam the atmospheric streets of the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, which is known for its free-spirited scene; see where the locals make their grocery runs at the open-air San Pedro market and pass the famous 12-angled stone, whose image appears on the bottle of the local Cusqueña beer.

At the end of the tour, your guide will suggest places to enjoy a delicious light local lunch, but make sure to save some room for the snacks that await you in your Peru culinary tour this afternoon.

First make your way to the Coffee Museum, just a ten-minute walk from your hotel, where a stimulating aroma will welcome you in. After a workshop detailing coffee’s history as well as how it is grown, sorted, and roasted, you will be whisked away to the Chocolate Museum.

Did you know that Peru is the birthplace of chocolate? Here you will learn about its spectacular history and the unique process that chocolate undergoes from plant to plate. Best of all, make your own chocolate truffles to bring home with you! Lastly, you will find yourself in the Republica del Pisco to taste an assortment of the country’s spirit of choice paired with Peruvian fusion appetizers. This is the perfect way to know which Pisco variety you’ll want to take home with you.

Spend the morning at your leisure and spend the afternoon whipping up some traditional Peruvian fare.

Today you have a free morning to sleep in and relax, or get up early to watch the Plaza de Armas come to life with the sunrise! You could also opt to roam around and discover Cusco and its fascinating streets and shops. Have a late-morning snack or light lunch, but nothing too heavy, as you will want to show up to your afternoon activity hungry.

In the early afternoon, continue with your Peru culinary tour by heading to one of Cusco’s best restaurants and spending the afternoon learning about Peru’s culinary history and current cuisine from one of the best area chefs. You will learn how to make Peruvian starters and entrees, accompanied by a never-ending stream of snacks and samples fresh from the restaurant’s oven.

Delight your palate with exotic fruits, make Pisco-based cocktails, learn a traditional way to slice vegetables, and spend the afternoon laughing and enjoying this truly special cooking class.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru!

Bid farewell to Peru!

After nearly two weeks of unforgettable memories made in Peru, it’s time to depart home. First, we’ll bring you to Tumbes airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to a restaurant in Costa del Sol before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen viaje!

Introduction to the City of Kings

Today, you’ll explore Peru’s “City of Kings,” where you’ll visit the Plaza Mayor, featuring the current President’s palace, the Convent of San Francisco (including subterranean catacombs!) and the Casa Aliaga, which is the western hemisphere’s oldest mansion and still owned and inhabited by the 17th generation of the Aliaga family.

You’ll have the early afternoon to explore at leisure. After dark, change into clothes that can get wet and bring a towel! You’ll be heading to Lima’s “Magical Water Circuit”. Combining water, movement, light, images and sound, this park is the largest of its kind in the world! You’ll not only be able to view the fountains, you can also interact with them, getting wet as you go!

Fly from Lima to Arequipa / Private tour of the historic center

This morning you’ll fly to Arequipa and explore Peru’s “white city”. You’ll stroll through the shining center of town  with many buildings made from a white volcanic rock called sillar, giving the city its nickname  until you arrive at the Andean Sanctuary Museum, where you’ll meet the famous ice-mummy, Juanita, face to face.

You’ll continue to the 16th century convent of Santa Catalina, which is truly a jewel of a city within a city. Finally, you’ll visit the main square of Yanahuara, with its famous panorama of Arequipa and the distant Misti Volcano.

Journey to Chivay

Today enjoy a scenic drive to the town of Chivay, your jumping-off point for the Colca Canyon. This drive goes through breathtaking landscapes and makes stops to mingle with Peru’s camelids at Pampa Cañahuas, to flock with migratory birds at Bofedales de Toccra and finally to gaze on Arequipa’s surrounding volcanoes at the outlook of Patapampa.

As you look out to the snow-capped peaks of the Misti, Hualca-Hualca and Ubinas Volcanoes, breathe deeply and feel the peace of taking in something completely new!

When we arrive in Chivay, the hot springs are an excellent option for relaxation, as the locals attribute healing properties to the soothing waters

Canyons and Condors

Early this morning, you’ll visit Condor’s Cross, where you can observe the depths of the Colca Canyon and watch the majestic flight of the giant Andean condor. You’ll also visit villages in the Colca Valley, where you’ll revel in the colorful local dress and friendly faces!

Upon conclusion of your guided tour of the Colca Canyon, you’ll return to your relaxing hotel to spend an afternoon at leisure in this beautiful part of the world!

Relaxation and the Road to Puno

This morning you will be able to enjoy the luxury of your hotel and spend the remaining hours reflecting on your time in the Colca Canyon.

In the afternoon you’ll depart Chivay with your private driver. The five-hour drive to Puno is through such beautiful country, the time will pass like nothing!

Lake Titicaca’s Magical Islands

Today, you will visit Lake Titicaca’s islands via private boat. Lake Titicaca, at 12,500 ft. above sea level, is the world’s highest navigable lake. This means that, even when the strong Andean sun shines, the wind can be chilly so be sure to dress warmly with layers!

Your boat will take you out through the bay of Puno, past banks of reeds to the incredible floating islands of Uros. For hundreds of years, local people have constructed these small islands by hand from the native totora reed, continually refreshing the island floor. You will also see houses and boats cleverly constructed of the reed and a few solar panels providing illumination!

You will next motor to the island of Taquile. Outside the Bay of Puno, Taquile seems almost Mediterranean, with grassy cliffs falling toward the blue water. The residents of the island are incredibly friendly and are world-famous for being true masters of intricate knitting patterns!

Over the Altiplano to Cusco

This morning you will board the luxury Peru Rail Titicaca Train to Cusco. Travel in style through the Andes Mountains and the Peruvian Altiplano, on South America’s finest luxury train!

As you pull out from Puno, watch the landscape change from expansive high plains to the bustle and cement of the city. Enjoy a fine lunch, live entertainment, and an open-air observatory car during this full-day train ride.

We will pick you up at the Cusco train station, and bring you to your hotel in the historic center.

Making Friends in the Sacred Valley

In the morning, we’ll drive to the high plains of Chinchero, where we’ll skirt the shore of beautiful blue Lake Piuray before finally arriving in a very small town. Only eighty families live in this close-knit place, where they farm, raise livestock, weave, celebrate and worship much as they have for hundreds of years.

When we arrive, you’ll meet the family you’ll be staying with and many of the other villagers. They’ll give you a wonderful warm welcome before taking you to settle in to your new home!

Then it will be time to get to work! You’ll get to learn about your new friends’ way of life by joining them in their daily activities! Because this is an agricultural community, much of the day is devoted to crops and animals. You may help with sowing or harvesting; you might assist with bringing cows and sheep back home after grazing.

You’ll enjoy lunch and dinner with your family, and have the opportunity to ask them about their lives and interests. You can also visit the after-school program and computer center that Kuoda supports with company proceeds.

Horseback Riding through the Sacred Valley

Explore the local landscape and meet and greet villagers as they go about their daily lives, cooking, herding cattle and tilling their fields.

Known for their docile nature, Peruvian Paso horses offer a comfortable, relaxed way to explore the Land of the Incas.

After a short orientation, we set off on rural paths through the small villages and communities neighboring the hotel, whilst learning about the famous smooth gait of the Peruvian Paso horses. Our route follows mostly rural tracks offering a relaxing way to explore the local scenery before returning to the stables.

Delving Into the Heart of the Sacred Valley

Today, we will take you to the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, one of the few remaining places in Peru that retains its original Incan urban planning.

You’ll note still-functioning street canals, multi-family houses with secret interior courtyards and iconic Incan trapezoidal doors! Here we’ll visit the Incan fortress perched on the mountainside overlooking the sleepy pueblo, and learn about nearby stone quarries and the pivotal Incan battle fought here.

We hope you worked up an appetite this morning, because next on the schedule is a true Peruvian feast: the traditional Pachamanca! The centuries-old Pachamanca tradition involves marinating lamb, pork, chicken, and potatoes in a variety of Andean ingredients and cooking them to perfection in an underground oven.

This afternoon, we’ll make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we’ll board the first-class Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows!

Private tour of Machu Picchu

This is your day to enjoy a private tour of Machu Picchu. In the morning after breakfast in your hotel, you and your guide will board the bus to the entrance of the ruins.

You will then ascend stone steps, through heavy tree cover to finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu! Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city, introducing you to the history of this spectacular citadel and showing you the most important temples and ceremonial sites.

After completing your Machu Picchu visit you will descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch and your return Vistadome train. We will be waiting to collect you in the Ollantaytambo train station and will bring you to your hotel in Cusco for the evening.

Exploring the Imperial City of Cusco

This morning you’ll enjoy Cusco’s rich tapestry woven by its inviting cobblestone streets, charming neighborhoods, and astounding landmarks.

You’ll explore some of Cusco’s most famous sites, including the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the Temple of the Sun – Qoricancha, which was once bathed in pure cold, as well as the 12-angled-stone nestled within a wall that has stood the true test of time… and many earthquakes!

This afternoon, eat your way through the streets of Cusco, trying all of the best local treats available, from tasty anticuchos to Peruvian donuts known as picarones!

Bidding Farewell to Peru

At the appropriate time this evening, we will escort you to the Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. Watch the windows as the snow-capped peaks of the Andes become coastal desert. We will help you check in for your international flight and wish you buen viaje!

Fly to Puerto Maldonado where the Amazon expedition begins.

In the morning, your Kuoda host will escort you to the airport for a flight to Puerto Maldonado. A travel guide from your jungle hotel will be waiting when you land and captain the boat to the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica lodge. Upon arrival, you will be served a delicious lunch with fresh-pressed juices.

Embark on a guided jungle walk along the Reserva Amazonica natural area, where you will find Shihuahuaco trees that can grow to the heights of 50 meters (164 feet) and a diameter of 1 meter (3.3 feet) over the course of 700 years. Learn about the strangler fig trees, or matapalos, and spot exotic jungle birds and insects.

As the sun sets, enjoy a twilight river excursion watching the jungle transform into an energetic nocturnal world. Spot unique mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects that thrive in the darkness, and enjoy their peaceful songs as you fall asleep in the ecolodge.

Embark on the ultimate jungle excursion.

After a serene sunrise breakfast, sail to Lake Sandoval, gliding along the jungle river in a wooden canoe. Drift on a captivating oxbow lake and see if you can spot one of the endangered river otters. Other wild inhabitants here include red howler monkeys, red-bellied macaws, anacondas, sick-neck turtles, and more.

Nourish yourself with an energizing lunch before exploring the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway. Here, you’ll wander across eight observation platforms, located 30 meters high in the jungle canopies, linked by suspension bridges. Be on the lookout for toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, monkeys, and the three-toed sloth. After your descent, stroll along the Anaconda Walk and observe various species of amphibians, birds, mammals, and the lush foliage of this seasonally flooded marshland.

Trek the dark-water creek and take a daring late-night jungle excursion.

It’s another early morning today, as you set off to investigate Gamitana creek. Embrace the exciting wildlife research opportunities on this winding dark-water creek, home to piranhas, caiman, turtles, and birds. Afterward, visit Gamitana Model Farm and learn about Amazonian agriculture. You’ll even get the chance to make your own plantain flour used to make bread back at the lodge.

After lunch, take the 35-minute boat ride upstream to the Hacienda Concepcion – an extraordinary botanical garden with over 200 different species of flora and fauna. After a calming afternoon, prepare for a daring Rainforest by Night experience hosted by the Inkaterra Ecological Reserve. Venture into the forest and spot creatures that only come out to play at night.

Fly to Cusco, visit a local project that promotes sustainable weaving practices and relax in the breathtaking Andean countryside.

After breakfast, we will bid goodbye to the Amazon jungle as the Refugio Amazonas team will escort you back to Puerto Maldonado. From the airport, you will embark on a flight to Cusco. Once you land, a guide will accompany you to the stunning Sacred Valley, whose bucolic farming and weaving towns – a few thousand feet lower in elevation than Cusco – are ideal for acclimatizing. On the way to the valley, stop at Sulca Living Museum, showcasing a comprehensive collection of ancient textile art from various Peruvian cultures. Here, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to meet Peru’s renowned llamas and alpacas up close!

Visit Ollantaytambo’s iconic ruins and enjoy an earth oven lunch.

This morning, spend a special hour on horseback, away from the crowds and losing yourself in the stunning views of the rural Sacred Valley. After a safety briefing and meeting your horse, we’ll show you our neighborhood, a beautiful section of the Sacred Valley that just a few get to see. There are no popular tourist attractions on this route, which is why this is an unforgettable and peaceful way to experience rural life in the Sacred Valley.

Then for lunch, you’ll experience a traditional Pachamanca! The pachamanca is a culinary tradition that dates back to the Incas as a way to celebrate and pay respect to the Pachamama or Mother Earth, a deity representing fertility to the indigenous people in Peru. The Pachamanca is a real feast that plays a key role in gatherings in different regions of Peru.

Thie afternoon, you will get your hands dirty and learn all about the building traditions of the Sacred Valley with an adobe making workshop. Surrounded by colorful mountains, our local experts in mud brick making will share their first-hand knowledge about this building tradition. With their help, you’ll make some strong mud mix yourself!

After getting cleaned up, we will bring you to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure in the beautiful Sacred Valley.

Relax with a morning train through the cloud forest on your way to visit Machu Picchu!

This is the moment all Peruvian explorers wait for. Board a luxurious train in Ollantaytambo and watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows. See if you and the kids can spot some alpacas grazing in the valley outside. The second leg of your trip to Machu Picchu will be a short bus ride. Upon arrival, enjoy a small lunch to give you energy for your exploration of the Inca citadel.

Your luxury tour of Machu Picchu continues after lunch as you and your family enter the ancient site. Seeing the astonishing Inca stonework in person will surpass any and every expectation you may have. An expert guide will take the family on a private tour of the cloud-level citadel, explaining the history and secrets of this mysterious ancient city.

Return to Aguas Calientes this evening and fall asleep to the sound of the humming cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the lovely Huchuy Picchu Mountain

Today you have the option to hike Huchuy Picchu, which means ‘Little Mountain’ in Quechua, which is an archaeological jewel, combining Inca history with beautiful natural landscapes.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel for a well-deserved good night’s rest.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco’s cobblestone streets on a private city tour!

Prepare to fall in love with Cusco, a gorgeous city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. A private tour is the best way to learn about this historic city and uncover the best insider secrets. Your guide will meet you at your hotel, and from there you’ll start your exploration of the city!  Explore the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors, the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a hub of artistic inspiration, and Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, enjoying local snacks and tasty treats along the way!

At the end of the tour, you will be free to explore our vibrant city on your own! Take a chocolate-making workshop, see the stars as the Incas saw them with an evening at the planetarium, or simply stroll and absorb the excitement of being in a new place!

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru!

Prepare to fall in love with Cusco, a gorgeous city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. A private tour is the best way to learn about this historic city and uncover the best insider secrets. Your guide will meet you at your hotel, and from there you’ll start your exploration of the city!  Explore the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors, the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a hub of artistic inspiration, and Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, enjoying local snacks and tasty treats along the way!

At the end of the tour, you will be free to explore our vibrant city on your own! Take a chocolate-making workshop, see the stars as the Incas saw them with an evening at the planetarium, or simply stroll and absorb the excitement of being in a new place!

Fly to Arequipa and relish a private tour of Peru’s second-largest city.

In the morning, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight to Arequipa. Often called “The White City,” Arequipa is famous for its dreamy colonial-era buildings, crafted from a pearly volcanic rock known as sillar. One of our hosts will help you travel to your hotel to settle in.

During the afternoon, venture out on a private city tour of Arequipa’s most intriguing sights. Capture enviable pictures of the beautiful colonial architecture, and learn about the mummy of Juanita, the preserved body of a young Inca girl found atop a glacier who was sacrificed in an ancient ritual. You will also explore a 16th-century convent before concluding your tour in the main square, Yanahuara, which boasts stunning panoramas of the city and the volcanic peak of El Misti.

Drive to the deepest Canyon in the world, spying some adorable new friends on the way!

Set off with your guide to the small town of Chivay. En route, you’ll stop at Pampa Cañahuas – a reserve inhabited by llamas and other South American camelids. Say hello before wandering to the volcano overlook, Patapampa, where you can gaze over the mighty line-up of snow-capped volcanic peaks.

After checking into your luxury hotel, it’s time to relax and enjoy the beautiful and serene surroundings. Travelers staying at Colca Lodge will be able to unwind in the restorative waters of the lodge’s natural spring pools.

Indulge in a day of wellness in Colca Canyon.

Every traveler deserves the luxury of leisure, and Colca Canyon is the best destination to take advantage of slow, relaxing experiences. Visit one of the many hot springs in the region, soaking in the banks of the River Colca. These warm pools are fed by natural springs that produce water at temperatures of up to 80ºC.  They are rich in minerals known to promote calmness and relaxation.

Explore the wild side of Colca Canyon; then take a private drive to Puno and Lake Titicaca.

Following breakfast at your luxury hotel, head for Condor’s Cross to peer down into the seemingly endless depths of Colca Canyon. This giant Andean fissure is one of the world’s deepest canyons, plummeting deep toward the Earth’s core. While here, see if you can spot some majestic Andean condors. This bird is frequently spotted soaring above the canyon’s abyss. After your morning in the wild, we’ll visit some of the settlements in and around Colca Valley to learn about local customs.

During the afternoon, you will enjoy views of the picturesque countryside during the five-hour journey to Puno. This private car ride is an excellent time to sit back and relax. When you arrive in Puno, your Kuoda host will check you into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Explore a private tour learning about life on Lake Titicaca.

Today, you’ll enjoy a guided private tour – which can be customized to suit those on family tours to Peru – around Lake Titicaca. Travel by boat to the floating islands of Uros, home to an ancient community whose lineage stretches back to pre-Inca times. Learn how the Uros people have managed to preserve their unique way of life through innovative and artistic daily routines that help sustain this one-of-a-kind community.

Next, sail out to Taquile Island, whose residents are honored by UNESCO for their artisanal weaving skills. Eat a lunch prepared by the hospitable islanders, before returning to your hotel in Puno.

Take the scenic route from Puno to Cusco for some unique sightseeing.

After breakfast, settle in on a guided private transfer and tour that will take you from Puno to Cusco. Along the way, you will stop at several intriguing destinations that make the drive even more exciting. The first stop comes at the Pre-Inca Pukara archaeological site. Next up: La Raya, which is at around 14,220 feet, will be the literal high point of your travels. A stunning panoramic sight full of glorious glacier-capped peaks looms in the background. In the foreground, local craftsmen sell their wares in roadside stalls.

After a peaceful lunch en route, you’ll stretch your legs once more at Raqchi. The Inca ruins here stand apart from all the rest. This town once provided rest along the Inca trail and possesses unusual stone-and-mud-brick walls, designed to ward off invaders from the south.

The penultimate destination on your guided bus tour will be the church of Andahuaylillas. Whitewashed on the outside, this church’s seemingly humble exterior veils the extravagance that lies inside. The interior’s lavish frescoes, dazzling gold leaf, and eye-popping wood sculpture have earned it the title of the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”

Upon arrival in Cusco, we will bring you straight to your hotel where you can rest and relax after your long journey.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco past and present.

After breakfast your private guide will proceed to illuminate Cusco’s rich tapestry woven by its inviting cobblestone streets, charming neighborhoods, and astounding landmarks.

You’ll begin with vehicle, chauffered to the Sacsayhuaman Incan ruins above the city, then you’ll set off on foot to experience the lay of the land just outside of Cusco’s city center with a light hike to the Inkilltambo archaeological site and Temple of the Moon.

On this hike of just a couple hours, you will walk through lush and fragrant eucalyptus forests, until reaching the Inkilltambo ruins with views of the Ausangate mountain in the distance.

Then, you will continue on this original Inca pathway to Temple of the Moon and enjoy a delicious outdoor lunch of local flavors in this beautiful setting before making your way back into the city through the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, known for its whitewashed adobe buildings and quaint blue balconies, home to generations of renowned Cusco artisans.

From there you’ll stop in at the colonial Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, then down to the Santo Domingo monastery, perched atop the most sacred of Incan sites, the Qoricancha temple of the sun. Once bathed in 24-karat gold long-since pilfered by Spanish conquistadors, this temple is now an astounding blend of Incan stonemasonry and colonial architecture.

Make sure to pause along the way to marvel at the incomparable Incan foundations supporting each building in the area, especially the 12-angled stone nestled in a wall that has withstood the test of time (as well as a couple of earth-shattering earthquakes!).

Before leaving you at your hotel, your guide will provide suggestions for fantastic dining in the city.

Exploring the Agricultural Diversity of the Sacred Valley

Today you will weave through the Sacred Valley’s most fertile agricultural lands and experience an unforgettable blend of the past, present, and future. We will take you to visit our friends in a small village and glimpse the promising future that awaits the rural Sacred Valley.

Surrounded by towering mountains and hugging the shore of the breathtakingly blue Lake Piuray, agriculture dominates life in this close-knit place. The women of the village are weaving masters that use Incan techniques, materials, and patterns, and have formed a weaving association providing community development through sales and teachings.

Next, you’ll embark on a unique culinary adventure with Manuel Choqque, a visionary farmer who has revolutionized the cultivation of Andean potatoes. On his farm, you will not only see potatoes in surprising colors and shapes, but you will learn about their ancestral value and how Manuel has reinvented these tubers to turn them into superfoods of the future. From potato tastings to innovative liquors, this experience is a feast of Andean flavors and knowledge that will make you see the potato like never before. Come and discover the taste of innovation in the Andes!

At the end of your delicious farm-to-table lunch, we will bring you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley for an afternoon at leisure.

Relax with a morning train through the cloud forest on your way to visit Machu Picchu!

This is the moment all Peruvian explorers wait for. Board the train in Ollantaytambo to begin your Machu Picchu journey. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows, and see if you can spot some alpacas grazing in the valley! When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, enjoy an early lunch before ascending to the lost Incan citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of South America’s most notable wonder, you will finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone citadel will reveal itself to you as you enter the main gates, a city intertwined with the clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want. Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu. Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley for a well-earned evening of rest.

Learn to make Chicha before Exploring Maras and Moray on Horseback

Today we enjoy a special day, visiting several treasures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, off-the beaten path, and away from the crowds.

Surrounded by colourful mountains, hummingbirds, and horses, you will learn and participate hands on how to make chicha de jora, the traditional drink of the Incas – a type of delicious and refreshing corn beer. You will also experience the ritual ceremonies that take place when drinking chicha.

You will then enjoy a lunch of tasty and colorful Peruvian flavors, descending from diverse cultures.

This afternoon, you will enjoy a day of easy horseback riding along the footsteps of the Incas atop the famous Peruvian Paso horses. We will spend approximately 3 ½ hours riding through the mountains, visiting the Maras salt mines, the quaint, colonial village of Maras, and the archeological site of Moray, an agricultural experimentation and development center of the Incas.

From here we begin our return to the ranch, descending through large expanses of farmland, with spectacular views of the mountains and fields. This part of the ride is a beautiful mix of peaceful landscapes and adventurous riding, perfect for all experience levels.

Upon completion of your tour, your private transport will bring you to your hotel in Cusco.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru

Going home is the worst part of any private Peru vacation, but at Kuoda, we’ll do our best to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. First, we’ll take you to Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to the seaside bohemian district of Barranco. See the streets of Barranco come alive as you visit a number of local art galleries and shops that support local artisans.

Finally, enjoy a first-class gourmet meal featuring world-renowned Peruvian flavors in a restaurant of your choice before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen Viaje!

Fly over the Andes into Cusco

You will wake up refreshed and enjoy a complimentary breakfast in your hotel before we escort you back to the airport for your morning flight to Cusco. Watch the windows as the desert coast rises into the snow-capped peaks of the Andes!

We will be waiting for you when you touch down at our Andean airport and will bring you to the historic city center of Cusco for a delicious lunch. Afterwards you’ll have the afternoon free to explore and acclimate to the altitude at your own pace.

This evening, you will have your briefing for your Salkantay Trek.

Explore the Sacred Valley with an excursion through  Pisac’s archaeological complexes.

This morning, you will start with a life experience through the exploration of the ancestral sounds used by the Incas and pre-Hispanic cultures in various contexts, encouraging the appreciation of these sounds. With this activity you will have the opportunity to learn about and understand the different sounds of pre-Hispanic wind instruments such as: whistles for meditation, communication, ceremonial and ritual purposes. You will also listen to the sounds of some instruments such as: the pututo, whistling vessels, the kero, mancha and puito that were used in Inca and pre-Inca cultures.

Your journey will continue to an ancient hacienda, nestled in the fertile valley next to the pueblo of Pisac. Step onto the family-owned hacienda grounds and step into centuries past while your hosts expound upon the growing process of Giant White Corn and its profound cultural significance in the Andes Mountains.  Relish your time on the farm with a delicious multi-course lunch with sample dishes featuring none other than the “white gold” giant-kernelled corn.

Next, you’ll travel up the mountain in your private vehicle for today’s final stop at the ruins overlooking Pisac. Here, you’ll learn about the complexity of the Incan agricultural system, their methods of cultivating thousands of varieties of corn and potatoes, and you’ll watch the sun sink over the tips of the Andes Mountains surrounding you.

Upon completion we’ll return to your hotel in Cusco for an evening at leisure.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco’s cobblestone streets with a private city tour.

Prepare to fall in love with Cusco, a gorgeous city that wins the heart of almost every traveler that passes through it. A private tour is the best way to learn about this historic city and uncover the best insider secrets. Your guide will meet you at your hotel, and from there you’ll start your exploration of the city!  Explore the archaeological remains of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incas staged a great battle against the conquistadors, the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, a hub of artistic inspiration, and Qoricancha and the Santo Domingo monastery, a colonial structure built on top of the ancient Inca temple of the sun, enjoying local snacks and tasty treats along the way!

At the end of the tour, you will be free to explore our vibrant city on your own, and pick up any last minute items so that you will be ready to start your trek in the morning!

Start your journey on the Salkantay Trek

After an early breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and start the drive to the beginning of the trail. Cruise through the purple and blue mountains of the Andes, where you will visit the Tarawasi Incan ruins before reaching Marcoccasa. Here, you will begin your trek on the “Camino Real.” It will be a few hours of hiking today before reaching your first lodge, the Salkantay Lodge and Adventure Resort in Soraypampa.

Salkantay Lodge takes its name from the majestic peak at the head of the valley, Mt. Salkantay. Eternally topped with a covering of snow, Salkantay’s 20,600-foot summit is the highest in the region, and is often obscured by the swirling clouds that rise from the jungle. For the Incas, it was one of the most sacred mountains. You’ll be given a charming Peruvian welcome to the lodge before enjoying dinner.

Sleep overnight at the lodge, which – at 12,690 feet – is a good place to acclimatize to the thinner air.

Relax and enjoy Soraypampa before the real hiking begins

Today is all about rest and relaxation in the breathtakingly beautiful Humantay Lake, only half an hour from the lodge. This blissful four-hour excursion will be a leisurely way to enjoy the landscape before an evening at the lodge. Take a dip in the outdoor Jacuzzi, and prepare for the next few days of rigorous hiking.

Reach the highest point of the trek at Vilcabamba Range

Today, the challenge begins! Your adventure has a mesmerizing start, as you begin the trek with the sunrise illuminating the Andean peaks. Hike to the Rio Blanco valley, circling Humantay Peak across from the summit of Salkantay. Once we reach the highest point on the trek, Salkantay Pass, we’ll take a break. At 15,213 feet, the views from here are glorious. The white-hatted Vilcabamba Range extends in every direction and the glacial south face of Salkantay towers above. Be on alert for Andean condors zooming by; these majestic birds are often seen soaring around the rocky ledges.

From the pass, we’ll descend toward Wayra Lodge, our destination for the night. ‘Wayra’ means wind, and references the nearby Wayracmachay, literally the “place where the wind lives.” Hikers will be given ample sustenance, with a hot picnic lunch served en route and dinner at the lodge.

Descend into the cloud forest and enjoy a Pachamanca feast

Being your morning with breakfast at Wayra Lodge before continuing the descent along the left bank of the Salkantay River. The further you plunge, the more verdant the scenery becomes. As the warm air from the jungle rises to envelop you, so do the colorful creatures that thrive in warmer climes: intricately patterned butterflies flutter through the air and attractive orchids can be seen spurting up from the ground.

The destination for today is Colpa Lodge, a charming lodge set on an open plateau at the confluence of three rivers. Once we get there, you and your fellow hungry hikers can fill up on Pachamanca – a traditional Peruvian meal made by layering meat and vegetables with hot stones and cooking them in a covered earthen pit. After, you might want to soothe your shaky calves with a soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi and enjoy the panoramic views. Or, should you crave something a little more active, you can ramble along the nearby orchid trail. Dinner will be at the lodge.

Trek past rural farms and explore small villages following the Santa Teresa river valley

Today, your luxury Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu continues, hiking across the more populated Santa Teresa River valley. You’ll see evidence of how local valley dwellers make their living. As you pass through plantations, you may even see the community members tending their crops of banana, granadilla, avocado, and coffee. Caffeine enthusiasts may be interested to know that some of the best organic coffees in the world are produced in this very valley!

Come lunchtime, we’ll find a suitable spot to stop by the river and refuel with a hot picnic. After lunch, get moving again for another hour or so until a private vehicle comes to collect us for a quick 30-minute transfer to the beginning of the Llactapata Inca Trail.

Tucked into the mountainside among a lush avocado orchard is our next overnight stop: the Lucma Lodge which will provide dinner and rest before the finale of your trek: Machu Picchu.

Get your first glimpse at Machu Picchu and arrive in Aguas Calientes

Today you’ll tackle the last day of your trek. The first few hours will be an uphill slog toward Llactapata Pass which gifts travelers with a first look at Machu Picchu in the distance. From this vantage point, you’ll see the site looming from the southeast.

After gazing at the ruins, take some time out to check out the Llactapata ruins, which were also “discovered” by Hiram Bingham on that fateful expedition in 1911. The site, which was recently restored, looks better than ever. Sit down for lunch at a scenic outlook that offers views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

Once lunch concludes, begin your descent towards the Urubamba River, passing through several picturesque landscapes comprised of bamboo forests, orchards, and plantations. From here, you’ll ride the train to Aguas Calientes, the closest settlement to Machu Picchu and your final overnight destination before exploring Machu Picchu properly tomorrow. Celebrate your completion of the Salkantay Trail over an indulgent dinner.

Tour the Machu Picchu Citadel with your expert guide

Today will be a day that remains permanently etched in your mind, long after you’ve returned from your personalized trip to Peru, for today will be the day you finally set eyes on the storied city of Machu Picchu!

After an early breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide and begin the bus ride up switchbacks to the Lost Citadel. As you trek up the entrance’s stone steps, heavy foliage hides the surrounding views until you emerge at what seems like the top of the world, with Machu Picchu spread out below. Take in the wonder of this historic, sacred site, relishing in your accomplishment of trekking the valley below. Return to Aguas Calientes for a late lunch, before heading back to your return train to Ollantaytambo.

Today, you will explore the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, one of the few remaining places in Peru that retains its original Incan urban planning. You’ll note still-functioning street canals, multi-family houses with secret interior courtyards and iconic Incan trapezoidal doors! Here we’ll visit the Incan fortress perched on the mountainside overlooking the sleepy pueblo, and learn about nearby stone quarries and the pivotal Incan battle fought here.

We hope you worked up an appetite this morning, because next on the schedule is a true Peruvian feast: the traditional Pachamanca! The centuries-old Pachamanca tradition involves marinating lamb, pork, chicken, and potatoes in a variety of Andean ingredients and cooking them to perfection in an underground oven. You’ll witness each step of the process: how the oven is prepared, how white-hot stones are layered, and how the feast materializes before your eyes!

While waiting for your feast to roast, make sure to wander through the grounds’ organic garden, smell the fresh-roasted coffee produced by the farm’s head roaster, and sample some of the varieties of cañazo (a local Andean spirit) that are produced on-site at the one-of-a-kind distillery.

At the end of your meal, we will bring you back to Cusco for a final evening at leisure.

This morning, you can continue your exploration of the city of Cusco, or have a lie-in and enjoy the comforts of your hotel! At the appropriate time early this afternoon, we will bring you to the Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. Your Kuoda Lima host will meet you upon arrival and bring you to the Huaca Pucllana site.

Here, you will glimpse pre-Columbian desert ruins, delicately preserved in the middle of Miraflores, one of Lima’s nicest neighborhoods. The huaca, or sacred site, is home to one of Lima’s finest dining establishments where you can enjoy a gourmet meal featuring Peruvian flavors while looking out over some of Lima’s most cherished ruins.

Upon conclusion of your meal, we will bring you to the Lima airport for your journey home. Thank you for traveling with Kuoda Travel, and buen viaje!