Book now with:
$800
$250
1 / 3
3 days
Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
This comprehensive 14-Day Peru Grand Circuit begins with an immediate immersion into the high-altitude culture of Lake Titicaca. Starting with a flight to Juliaca, the first phase includes a memorable homestay in the village of Llachón, exploring the pristine Capachica Peninsula and visiting the lesser-known Titinos Floating Islands before reaching Puno. Phase two transitions to the historical capital of Cusco, visiting the city's monumental Inca ruins (Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo) and traveling the scenic Ruta del Sol to see sites like Raqchi and the "Sistine Chapel of South America" in Andahuaylillas.
The core of this journey is the profound six-day Patabamba Trek through the high Andes. This demanding but beautiful route connects pre-Inca sites like Pikillaqta and the Inca hydraulic masterpiece Tipón, culminating in the remote ruins of Huchuy Qosqo via a restored section of the ancient Qhapaq Ñan trail. Experience true local life with multiple homestays in traditional weaving communities like Patabamba and Chinchero, far from tourist crowds. This path also includes visits to the circular terraces of Moray and the geometric artistry of the Maras Salt Ponds before the essential journey to the iconic Machu Picchu Kingdom at dawn.
This expertly crafted itinerary is designed for the traveler who demands authenticity, physical engagement, and comprehensive historical context. From sleeping in an adobe home by Lake Titicaca to standing atop the Huallata Pass (4,418 m), every day offers a new challenge and a deeper connection to the Andean world. This all-inclusive journey covers domestic flights, most meals, professional English-speaking guides, all entry fees, and specialized accommodations (hotels, homestays, and camping). Experience the best of Peru—its ancient cities, sacred mountains, and welcoming people—in one grand circuit. Book your 14-Day Peru Grand Circuit now and embrace the full cultural and physical adventure of the Andes!
Trip Highlights
A trekking route accessible to all levels
Overnights with local families for an authentic cultural experience
The major archaeological sites of Southern Peru
A variety of natural landscapes (Altiplano, tropical forest, Lake Titicaca)
Itinerary From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
Day 1 Arrival in Lima
Arrival at Lima Airport, welcome assistance, and transfer to your hotel. Free evening.
Overnight in Lima.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Hotel in Lima
Day 2 • Lima – Juliaca (3824 m) – Llachon (Lake Titicaca)
Early transfer to the airport for your flight to Juliaca on the Peruvian Altiplano.
Upon arrival, your French-speaking local guide welcomes you and transfers you by private vehicle to the mythical Lake Titicaca.
Driving along a scenic track through the high plateaus, you reach the Capachica peninsula and the small fishing village of Llachon, set at 3,820 meters of altitude. A community member greets you and hosts you in his adobe home for a memorable homestay.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Flight Lima–Juliaca
Homestay
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 • Capachica Peninsula (3,880 m)
You follow a stone-paved path through landscapes that shift from dry golden plateaus to lush green fields, contrasting beautifully with the intense blue of the sky and the lake. Along the way, you may see herds of sheep and donkeys watched over by the village “mamitas.”
You continue hiking to a small ceremonial site perched on a promontory with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands—and, in clear weather, the snowcapped peaks of Bolivia’s Royal Cordillera.
Return in the afternoon to relax or spend more time with the community.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Homestay
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4 • Taquile Island (3,950 m) – Puno (3,800 m)
After breakfast, departure by boat toward Taquile Island. On the way, visit the lesser-known floating islands of Titinos, located near the Capachica peninsula and much less visited than the ones near Puno Bay.
Discover Taquile Island, renowned for its high-quality textile traditions and community-managed way of life. Lunch included on the island. Afterwards, boat transfer back to Puno.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private boat
Hotel in Puno
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5 • Puno (3,800 m) – Cusco (3,350 m)
Transfer to the bus terminal and departure to Cusco on a tourist bus with several scenic and cultural stops:
Pucara Lithic Museum – tracing the evolution of Andean cultures
La Raya Pass (4,335 m) – highest point of the route
Raqchi – impressive administrative and religious Inca complex
Andahuaylillas – stunning 17th-century church known as the “Sistine Chapel of South America”
Arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel. Free evening.
Included:
English/Spanish-speaking guide (bus)
Entrance fees
Tourist bus
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast, lunch
Day 6 • Cusco – The Navel of the World
Guided tour of the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Cusco, built on ancient Inca foundations, remains a remarkable example of Andean architecture and urban planning.
Short transfer to Tambomachay, then hike back toward Cusco, visiting:
Tambomachay (water temple)
Puca Pucara
Qenqo
The monumental fortress of Sacsayhuamán
Return to the main square around midday. Afternoon city visit: Plaza de Armas, Cathedral, Compañía de Jesús church, Inca wall streets (Loreto, Hatum Rumiyoc), and the San Blas neighborhood.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Entrance fees
Breakfast
Hotel in Cusco
Day 7 • Cusco – Pikillaqta – Tipon – Patabamba (3,800 m)
Departure toward the pre-Inca site of Pikillaqta, then continue to Tipon, a masterpiece of Inca hydraulic engineering. The trek begins here on a stone trail through sparse vegetation leading to terraced fields where you camp for the night.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Camping
Hiking: 5 hours
Day 8 • Patabamba – Huaqoto – Picol (3,700 m)
Hike through a small hamlet toward the high plateaus for lunch. Continue walking along the slopes of Mt. Pachatusan, with impressive views of the Huatanay Valley. Ascend to the Picol Pass (4500 m) with a spectacular view of Mt. Chicon (5,500 m) and, behind you, the majestic Ausangate (6,372 m). Overnight in Picol.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Camping
Hiking: 7 hours
Day 9 • Picol – Patabamba (3,780 m)
Enjoy panoramic views of the three great mountain ranges—Vilcanota, Vilcabamba, and Urubamba. Admire the Sacred Valley and the Pisac archaeological site, as well as the Huatanay Valley with Cusco in the distance.
Descend toward the communities of Picol, Matinga, and Cochahuasi. After reaching the Kallarayan canyon, climb to the Patabamba pass (3900 m) and continue along the ridge to the weaving community of Patabamba.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay
Hiking: 7 hours
Day 10 • Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m)
Hike toward the village of Sihuas and then to Pukamarca Pass (3900 m) with a stunning view of the Urubamba range. Continue to the Puma Punku canyon and follow a restored Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail) to reach the remote archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, “Little Cusco.”
Overnight with a local host family near the site.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay
Hiking: 7 hours
Day 11 • Huchuy Qosqo – Chinchero (3,780 m)
Hike toward the Huallata Pass (4418 m) for wide open views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding peaks. Descend to the pastoral village of Cuperalto before arriving in Chinchero, where your host family welcomes you for the night.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay
Hiking: 7 hours
Day 12 • Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (2,000 m)
Visit Moray, the Inca agricultural laboratory, then continue to the Maras salt ponds, still worked today using ancient methods.
Descend toward the Sacred Valley and continue to Ollantaytambo, a remarkable Inca town preserved since the 15th century. After a stroll through its narrow stone streets, take the train to Aguas Calientes. Free evening.
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle & train
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Breakfast
Day 13 • Machu Picchu – Cusco
At dawn, take the bus to Machu Picchu for a complete guided visit of the Inca citadel. Explore the agricultural and urban sectors and admire the incredible stonework.
In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes for your train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco.
Optional (not included, must be booked in advance):
Huayna Picchu hike
Machu Picchu Mountain hike
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Train to Cusco
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel in Cusco
Day 14 • Cusco – Lima – International Flight
Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Lima and connection with your international flight.
Included:
Airport assistance
Private transport
Breakfast
Includes From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
Private ground transportation
French-speaking guides, muleteers, and cooks
French-speaking guides at each stage
Domestic flights: Lima–Juliaca & Cusco–Lima
Airport assistance
Trekking and camping logistics
Private guided excursions
Entrance fees to all visited sites
Meals listed as included
Homestays
Private vehicle throughout
Not Included From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
International flights
Drinks
Tips (approx. USD 3.5/day/person for guides & USD 2.5/day/person for muleteers/cooks)
Travel insurance
Personal trekking gear (trekking poles, sleeping bag—available for rent)
Personal expenses
Recommendations From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
Health and Acclimatization
Allow time to adapt to altitude.
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol at the beginning.
Eat light meals during the first days.
Personal Equipment
Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes
Layered clothing (base layer, fleece, waterproof/windproof jacket)
Warm sleeping bag (comfort –5°C recommended)
Trekking poles
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
Headlamp + extra batteries
Hygiene and Comfort
Personal toiletries, wet wipes
Personal medication + basic first-aid kit
Quick-dry towel
Documents and Money
Valid passport (keep paper and digital copies)
Travel insurance (medical, evacuation, cancellation)
International credit card + cash for communities (cards not always accepted)
Community Stay Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos
Participate with openness in daily activities
Small useful gifts (not sweets or plastic items)
Safety and Responsibility
Follow your guide’s instructions
Leave no waste; carry out all trash
Use a reusable water bottle
Climate
Expect temperature swings from –5°C at night to 20°C+ during the day
Dry season (May–Oct): sunny days, cold nights
Wet season (Nov–Apr): possible afternoon showers—rain gear recommended
Photo Gallery From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
Frequently Asked Questions From Titicaca to Machu Picchu: Lake Homestay and Patabamba Trek
Why start in Juliaca/Puno instead of Cusco?
Starting in the south (Lake Titicaca, 3,800m) is a bold but rewarding acclimatization strategy. While the altitude is high, the physical activity in the first few days (Days 2-4) is low impact. You spend your time navigating the lake and walking gently on islands, allowing your body to produce red blood cells at a slow pace. By the time you travel north to Cusco (3,400m) and begin the Patabamba trek (Day 7), your lungs are already "Andean," making the hiking much more enjoyable.
Is staying in a homestay on Lake Titicaca uncomfortable?
It is not a hotel, but it is far from uncomfortable—it is deeply human. In Llachón (Day 2), you stay in a private room within a family's adobe home. The facilities are simple (often shared bathrooms, no heating), but the warmth comes from the heavy wool blankets and the hospitality. You aren't just sleeping there; you are sharing meals and stories with a family that rarely sees the rush of mass tourism found in Puno's main port.
What is the "Patabamba Trek" and why haven't I heard of it?
Most people know the Inca Trail or Salkantay. The Patabamba Trek (Days 7-10) is a "secret" route connecting the Sacred Valley to the ruins of Huchuy Qosqo ("Little Cusco"). It is designed for those who want silence. You walk along the balcony of the Sacred Valley, crossing passes like Picol (4,500m) with views of the Ausangate glacier, passing through weaving villages that still wear traditional red ponchos daily, not just for show.
Do I have to carry my own gear during the trek?
No. This is a fully supported expedition. Mules and muleteers handle the heavy lifting (tents, food, and your duffel bag). You only carry a daypack with your water, camera, rain jacket, and layers. The camp staff even sets up the tents and dining tent before you arrive, so you can focus on the landscape, not the logistics.
Will I be sleeping in tents for the entire trek?
It is a mix. On Day 7 and Day 8, you camp in the wild (Tipon and Picol areas) under the stars. However, on Day 9 (Patabamba) and Day 10 (Huchuy Qosqo), you switch back to homestays. This alternation is brilliant: just when you might crave a real roof and a home-cooked meal after a hard day's hike, you are welcomed into a local home rather than a cold tent.
Is Huchuy Qosqo worth the effort?
Absolutely. Huchuy Qosqo is an archaeological gem perched on a cliff directly above the Sacred Valley town of Lamay. Because it is inaccessible by road, it receives a tiny fraction of the visitors that Pisac or Ollantaytambo do. Arriving there on foot via the ancient Qhapaq Ñan (Inca road system) feels like discovering a lost city, offering one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the entire Cusco region.
What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Safety is built into the itinerary. You have a slow ascent profile (Titicaca first), and during the trek, the guide carries an oxygen tank and a first aid kit. Furthermore, because the Patabamba route stays relatively close to civilization (you are walking parallel to the valley below), emergency evacuation to a lower altitude is much faster and easier than on remote treks like Choquequirao.
Why are the "Titinos" islands included?
Most tours take you to the crowded Uros islands near Puno, which can feel like a "human zoo." This itinerary takes you to the Titinos floating islands near the Capachica Peninsula (Day 4). These are inhabited by the same Uros culture but are far less commercialized. The interaction is genuine, quiet, and respectful, allowing you to understand their reed-building technology without the pressure to buy souvenirs.
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
