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3 days
Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
This challenging 7-Day High Andean Trek offers an intensive immersion into the history and high-altitude landscapes surrounding Cusco. The journey begins by visiting major archaeological sites like the pre-Inca Pikillaqta and the remarkable Inca hydraulic engineering at Tipón. The itinerary features three demanding trekking days, crossing high mountain passes including the Picol Pass (4,500 m) and the Huallata Pass (4,418 m), offering stunning views of peaks like Ausangate. A highlight is the exploration of the remote Huchuy Qosqo ruins, accessed via a restored section of the ancient Qhapaq Ñan Inca trail.
Experience the raw beauty and authentic culture of the Andean highlands away from the crowds. This itinerary provides a profound connection with local life, incorporating a homestay in Patabamba, a village renowned for its traditional weavers, and overnight stays in local communities. Feel the ancient footsteps beneath your own as you traverse restored Inca roads, meet camelid herders in high-altitude hamlets, and witness the majesty of the Ausangate mountain. The final two days blend cultural exploration at the Moray agricultural laboratories and the shimmering Maras Salt Mines before you embark on the legendary journey to Machu Picchu.
This is the ultimate trekking adventure for the seasoned traveler seeking a blend of physical challenge, profound archaeological discovery, and genuine cultural interaction. You will witness the full spectrum of the Sacred Valley's majesty, from Inca engineering marvels to the breathtaking views from high passes and the final reward of Machu Picchu itself. With expert English-speaking guides, entrance fees, meals, and specialized camping/homestay accommodations included, this route is meticulously planned for an unforgettable experience. Book your 7-Day Inca Hydraulic Trek now and conquer the soul of the Andes!
Duration: 7 days
Porterage: Only your personal day gear
Accommodation: Hotel – Homestay – Camping
Guiding: Private English-speaking guide
Level: Moderate
Trip Highlights
An accessible and varied Andean trek
Guided visit of Machu Picchu at sunrise
3 nights in local homestays, learning about weaving and Andean lifestyles
Exceptional panoramas of the Vilcanota, Vilcabamba, and Urubamba mountain ranges
A balanced experience of culture, nature, and soft adventure
Itinerary Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
Day 1 – Cusco (3,350 m) – Pikillaqta – Tipón – Patabamba (3,800 m)
Depart Cusco toward the pre-Inca site of Pikillaqta, an ancient fortified city, then continue to Tipón, a remarkable example of Inca hydraulic engineering. Begin your trek through beautiful agricultural terraces before reaching the high plains of Patabamba.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private transport
Lunch
Dinner
Camping
Walking time: 5 hours
Day 2 – Patabamba – Huaqoto – Picol (3,700 m)
Walk through small Andean hamlets, enjoy lunch on the high plateaus, and ascend progressively to the Picol Pass (4,500 m), offering breathtaking views of Mt. Chicon (5,500 m) and the majestic Ausangate (6,380 m). Overnight in tents at Picol.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Meals
Camping
Walking time: 7 hours
Day 3 – Picol – Patabamba (3,780 m)
Admire sweeping views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the Sacred Valley with Pisac below. Descend through the communities of Picol, Matinga, and Cochahuasi, then climb back toward Patabamba, a village known for its talented weavers. Homestay overnight.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Meals
Homestay
Walking time: 7 hours
Day 4 – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m)
Hike across the Pukamarca Pass (3,900 m) and descend through the Puma Puncu canyon, following a restored section of the ancient Inca trail, the Qhapaq Ñan. Explore the isolated and mysterious site of Huchuy Qosqo, known as the “Little Cusco.” Homestay overnight.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Meals
Homestay
Walking time: 7 hours
Day 5 – Huchuy Qosqo – Chinchero (3,780 m)
Ascend to the Huallata Pass (4,418 m), enjoying spectacular views over the Sacred Valley. Meet camelid herders in Cuperalto before arriving in Chinchero, an important center for traditional weaving. Homestay overnight.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Meals
Homestay
Walking time: 7 hours
Day 6 – Chinchero – Moray – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Visit Moray, the Inca agricultural laboratory, followed by the famous Maras salt mines, still in active use today. Continue to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca village, before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes. Check-in at your hotel.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private transport and train
Hotel
Breakfast
Day 7 – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early morning bus to the legendary Machu Picchu for a complete guided tour of the citadel. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available upon request (advance booking required). Return by train to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to Cusco.
Included:
English-speaking guide, train
Private transport
Entrance fees
Breakfast and lunch
Hotel in Cusco
Includes Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
Accommodation in 3-star hotels (local standards), homestays, and camping
Private English-speaking guide throughout the trip
Muleteers and cooking staff for the trek logistics
Meals listed as included
Entrance fees to all sites, including Machu Picchu
Private and shared land transport, train tickets, shuttle bus
Full trekking and camping logistics
Not Included Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
Travel insurance
Meals not listed as included (approx. USD 5–10 per meal)
Tips (approx. USD 4/person/day for the guide, USD 2/person/day for the trekking crew)
Drinks
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, trekking poles – available for rent locally)
Personal expenses
Recommendations Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
Recommended Gear
Sleeping bag suitable for cold nights at altitude (down to 0°C). Rental available.
Comfortable, well-worn hiking boots (avoid new shoes).
Trekking poles (recommended for ascents and descents; available for rent).
Layered clothing: moisture-wicking shirts, warm fleece, windproof and waterproof jacket.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (strong UV exposure at altitude).
Headlamp for camping nights.
Daypack (25–30 L) for your daily essentials.
Meals & Hydration
Main meals during the trek are prepared by the expedition cook.
Bring energy snacks (granola bars, dried fruit, chocolate) for the hikes.
Water is provided or purified by the team. Bring a bottle or hydration pouch (minimum 1.5 L).
Health & Acclimatization
The trek ranges between 3,350 m and 4,500 m. Proper acclimatization is essential—plan at least 2 days in Cusco beforehand.
Bring medication for altitude sickness if you are prone to it.
Consult your doctor for health conditions and updated vaccinations before traveling.
Cultural Respect
Homestays offer a rare opportunity to share the Andean lifestyle—be open, respectful, and curious.
You may bring small useful gifts (notebooks, pencils, warm hats) for local children.
Learning a few words of Spanish or Quechua is greatly appreciated by host families.
Money & Extras
Meals not included cost around USD 5–10 per person.
Plan tips for your guide, muleteers, and cook (local custom).
Bring Peruvian soles in cash for small purchases (textiles, drinks, etc.) in the villages.
Machu Picchu Optional Hikes
For active travelers, optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be booked in advance (subject to availability). Early reservations are mandatory.
Photo Gallery Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
Frequently Asked Questions Cusco High Trek 7-days: Summit Picol Pass (4500m) & Hidden Inca Trails
Who is this trek really designed for?
This journey is ideal for travelers who want more than Machu Picchu. It’s designed for active travelers looking for high-altitude trekking, cultural immersion, and remote Andean landscapes, combined with iconic sites like Moray, Maras, and Machu Picchu. It’s not a luxury tour—it's a deep, authentic Andes experience.
How challenging is the altitude on this route, and how do travelers adapt?
The trek reaches up to 4,500 m (14,764 ft) at Picol Pass. The itinerary is carefully designed with progressive altitude gain, allowing the body to acclimatize naturally. Starting near Cusco and moving gradually into higher plateaus significantly reduces altitude issues for well-prepared travelers.
What makes Patabamba such a special place to stay?
Patabamba is known for its master Andean weavers, guardians of centuries-old textile techniques. Staying here allows travelers to sleep in local homes, share meals with families, and und
What archaeological sites will travelers discover before reaching Machu Picchu?
Before Machu Picchu, travelers explore Pikillaqta, a rare pre-Inca urban complex, Tipón, an extraordinary example of Inca hydraulic engineering still functioning today, and Huchuy Qosqo, a mysterious royal retreat perched above the Sacred Valley.
How comfortable are the camping and homestay accommodations?
Camping includes quality tents, sleeping mats, and warm meals, even at high altitude. Homestays are simple but clean and welcoming, offering real cultural exchange rather than hotel-style comfort. This balance keeps the experience authentic yet safe and comfortable.
How does this tour support local communities?
By staying in family homes, hiring local guides, and sourcing food locally, the tour directly supports rural Andean communities. Travelers contribute to sustainable tourism that helps preserve traditional livelihoods and prevents rural migration.
Why is Machu Picchu the perfect finale to this journey?
After days of walking ancient paths and living among Andean communities, Machu Picchu feels like a powerful conclusion, not just a sightseeing stop. Travelers arrive with a deep understanding of Inca civilization, making the visit more meaningful and emotionally impactful.
Comments:
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
For responsible and sustainable tourism
The payment for each experience is distributed responsibly and transparently with the aim of generating a real and positive impact in Peru
