Book now with:
$1000
$250
1 / 3
3 days
Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
Experience Peru the way it was meant to be discovered—deep, authentic, and unforgettable. This 17-day expertly designed journey takes you from the colonial elegance of Lima and Arequipa to the living cultures of Lake Titicaca, the legendary Inca Trail, and the breathtaking majesty of Machu Picchu. Every moment is carefully planned, combining iconic highlights with exclusive experiences that most travelers never see. With private transportation, expert English-speaking guides, and hand-selected accommodations, you can relax knowing every detail is handled with precision and care.
This is more than a tour—it’s a true cultural immersion. Stay with welcoming local families in the Colca Valley and Lake Titicaca, trek the world-famous Inca Trail with professional support, and witness condors soaring above ancient canyons. You’ll explore hidden Inca sites, vibrant traditional villages, and spectacular Andean landscapes while enjoying comfort, safety, and seamless logistics throughout your journey. Our trusted local team ensures authentic connections, insider access, and a level of service that exceeds expectations.
Your adventure culminates in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where you’ll encounter extraordinary wildlife and experience one of Earth’s most biodiverse ecosystems. From the Andes to the jungle, every destination is selected to inspire wonder and create lifelong memories. This journey is perfect for travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and expert guidance. Secure your place today and discover Peru with confidence, knowing you’re traveling with professionals committed to delivering an exceptional, worry-free experience.
Duration: 17 days
Luggage: Carry only your day pack
Accommodation: Hotels, homestays, and lodges
Guiding: English-speaking guide
Difficulty level: Moderate
Itinerary Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima
Upon arrival at Lima airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Evening at leisure.
Included:
English-speaking assistance at the airport
Private vehicle
Hotel in Lima
Day 2 – Lima to Arequipa (2,400 m / 7,874 ft)
Flight to Arequipa. Explore the White City, including the Plaza de Armas, the Jesuit church, Santa Catalina Convent, and the viewpoints of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto, offering panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes. Meals not included.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Site entrance fees
Private vehicle
Flight Lima – Arequipa
Hotel in Arequipa
Breakfast
Day 3 – Arequipa, the White City
Today is dedicated to acclimatization at 2,350 meters (7,710 ft). Explore La Campiña and the Sabandia Mill, showcasing Arequipa’s volcanic architecture. Visit the Sachaca viewpoint, the Mansion of the founder García Manuel de Carvajal, the 1785 Sabandia stone mill, and the pre-Inca terraces of Paucarpata.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Site entrance fees
Private vehicle
Hotel in Arequipa
Breakfast and lunch
Day 4 – Arequipa to Chivay – Coporaque
Depart Arequipa in the morning toward Chivay in the Colca Valley. Pass by the Chachani volcano and the Salinas y Aguada Blanca reserve to spot vicuñas. Observe lunar-like landscapes at Pata Pampa Pass (4,910 m / 16,108 ft). Continue to Coporaque (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), a small village in the heart of the valley. Lunch with a local family, followed by a presentation of traditional dances. Overnight with local families.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Entrance fees
Homestay
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 5 – Coporaque
Spend a full day immersed in village life, participating in daily activities alongside local residents.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Homestay
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 6 – Coporaque – Colca Cross – Puno
Early breakfast, then visit the Colca Cross for an excellent vantage point to watch Andean condors. Explore the Colca Canyon and nearby villages such as Maca. Return to Chivay for lunch, then take a public bus to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle (for Colca Cross)
Public bus (to Puno)
Hotel in Puno
Breakfast and lunch
Day 7 – Puno – Uros – Taquile – Llachon
Full-day excursion on Lake Titicaca. Visit the floating islands of the Uros and the island of Taquile, where the local community maintains traditions dating back to the Inca era. Afternoon boat ride to Llachon. Overnight with local families.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private boat
Homestay
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 8 – Llachon – Cusco
Cross the Altiplano, a vast, cold, and arid plain used for alpaca grazing and cultivation of potatoes and quinoa. Scenic view of the Vilcanota mountain range before reaching La Raya Pass (4,335 m / 14,222 ft), the continental divide. Descend to Cusco, transitioning from plains to mountains.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Public bus (unaccompanied)
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast and picnic lunch
Day 9 – Cusco City Tour
Guided tour of Cusco, the fascinating Inca capital. Explore the main archaeological sites surrounding the city: Q’enqo, Tambomachay, Pukapukara, and Sacsayhuamán. Continue with the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and Santo Domingo Convent. Admire the famous 12-angled stone, a testament to Inca stonework.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle
Breakfast
Hotel in Cusco
Day 10 – Cusco – Chinchero – Maras – Moray – Ollantaytambo
Drive through the Sacred Valley to Chinchero, the “Rainbow City,” visiting its ruins and church built over an Inca temple. Continue to the pre-Inca salt terraces of Maras and the agricultural laboratory of Moray. End the day in Ollantaytambo, exploring its 15th-century Inca village and citadel.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle
Breakfast and lunch
Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Day 11 – Ollantaytambo (2,750 m) – Km 82 – Huayllabamba (2,850 m)
Trek starts from Km 82 on the Inca Trail to Huayllabamba, passing Llaqtapata (“city above”) and the narrow Kusichaca Valley. Overnight in a campsite.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight in tent
6 hours of walking
Day 12 – Huayllabamba (2,850 m) – Warmi Wañusca Pass (4,200 m) – Pacaymayo (3,350 m)
Trek through forest and high-altitude terrain to Pacaymayo. Cross Warmi Wañusca Pass, the highest point of the trail. Overnight in a campsite.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight in tent
7 hours of walking
Day 13 – Pacaymayo (3,350 m) – Runkuracay Pass (3,900 m) – Wiñaywayna (2,700 m)
Continue along the Inca Trail, visiting Runkuracay and Sayacmarca sites. Descend 2,500 stone steps to Wiñaywayna. Overnight in a campsite.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight in tent
7 hours of walking
Day 14 – Wiñaywayna (2,700 m) – Inti Punku (2,750 m) – Machu Picchu (2,450 m) – Aguas Calientes (2,050 m) – Cusco (3,350 m)
Arrive at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) with stunning views of Machu Picchu. Guided tour of Machu Picchu’s agricultural and urban sectors. Afternoon descent to Aguas Calientes, then train to Cusco. Optional: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb (advance reservation required).
Included:
English-speaking guide
Train to Ollantaytambo
Private vehicle
Entrance fees
Breakfast and lunch
3 hours of walking
Hotel in Cusco
Day 15 – Cusco – Puerto Maldonado
Fly to Puerto Maldonado, gateway to the Amazon. Transfer to your lodge via Tambopata River boat. Arrival lunch and welcome cocktail, followed by a brief lodge tour. Late afternoon excursion to observe nocturnal wildlife.
Included:
Airport assistance
Private transport
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight in lodge
Day 16 – Puerto Maldonado
Morning jungle trek to Lake Sachavacayoc (2.5 hours) to observe monkeys, birds, and possibly an anaconda. Picnic in the forest. Afternoon return, with optional wildlife observation of caimans and capybaras. Evening at leisure.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private transport
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight in lodge
Day 17 – Puerto Maldonado – Lima – International Flight
Return to Puerto Maldonado airport after early morning wildlife observation. Transfer to Lima for your international flight.
Included:
Airport assistance
Private transport
Breakfast
Includes Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
Your tour package includes the following services and features to ensure a comfortable, safe, and enriching travel experience throughout Peru:
All accommodations as specified in the itinerary (hotels, homestays, lodges, and camping during the Inca Trail)
All ground transportation as detailed in the itinerary (private vehicles, public buses where specified, train tickets, and boat transfers)
Domestic flights (Lima – Arequipa and Cusco – Puerto Maldonado)
Professional English-speaking guides throughout all guided visits, excursions, and treks
All entrance fees to archaeological sites, natural reserves, and attractions mentioned in the itinerary, including Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail
Airport transfers and assistance upon arrival and departure
Meals as specified in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner when indicated)
Camping equipment during the Inca Trail trek (tents, sleeping arrangements, and cooking equipment)
Amazon lodge excursions and guided jungle activities
Cultural experiences with local communities, including homestays and traditional activities
Not Included Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
The following services and personal expenses are not included in the tour package:
International flights to and from Peru
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, souvenirs, snacks, and beverages
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, and lodge staff (optional but recommended)
Sleeping bag rental for the Inca Trail (available upon request)
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits)
Early check-in or late check-out at hotels (subject to availability and additional cost)
Alcoholic beverages
Recommendations Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
Health and Acclimatization
Allow 1–2 days for altitude adaptation (Arequipa, Cusco, Puno)
Stay hydrated; avoid alcohol and heavy meals at the start
Bring altitude sickness medication if recommended by your doctor
Personal Equipment
Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes
Layered clothing for varied climate: breathable t-shirt, warm fleece, windproof/waterproof jacket
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (especially Oct–Apr)
Warm sleeping bag (comfort -5°C recommended for Inca Trail; can be rented)
Trekking poles advised
Headlamp with spare batteries
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
Insect repellent for Amazon
Hygiene and Comfort
Small first aid kit (bandages, disinfectant, personal medications)
Quick-dry travel towel and hand sanitizer
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
Documents and Money
Valid passport (carry paper and digital copies)
Travel insurance (health, evacuation, cancellation)
International bank card and cash in Peruvian soles
Community and Cultural Respect
Respect local customs; ask permission before photographing people
Participate positively in daily activities (agriculture, crafts, cooking)
Useful small gifts welcome (not candy or plastic toys)
Safety and Environment
Follow guide instructions at all times
Respect nature; do not leave waste behind
Stay on designated trails during treks and in the Amazon
Climate
Highlands (Cusco, Puno, Colca): sunny days, cold nights
Amazon: hot, humid, frequent rain; wear light but covering clothing
Dry season (May–Oct): clear skies, cold nights
Wet season (Nov–Apr): possible afternoon rain
Photo Gallery Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
Frequently Asked Questions Peru Expedition 17-Day: The Inca Trail, Culture and Machu Picchu
Is this itinerary too physically demanding?
It is designed with a "stepped" intensity. You don't jump straight into the Inca Trail. The first week in Arequipa (2,350m) and the Colca Canyon (3,600m) acts as a gentle, cultural training camp. You acclimatize while watching condors and sleeping in homestays, not gasping for air on a mountain pass. By the time you reach the Inca Trail on Day 11, your lungs are primed for the challenge, making the trek enjoyable rather than a survival test.
What is the accommodation mix really like?
Expect a full spectrum of Peruvian hospitality. You start in comfortable hotels in Lima and Arequipa. In the Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca, you shift to homestays—simple, clean adobe rooms within family compounds where warmth comes from alpaca blankets and shared meals. On the Inca Trail (Days 11-13), it's high-quality camping in tents. Finally, in the Amazon (Days 15-16), you upgrade to a comfortable jungle lodge with private bathrooms and mosquito nets.
How "cultural" is the Colca Canyon visit?
It is far deeper than a standard bus tour. Instead of just driving through, you stay in the village of Coporaque on the canyon's edge. You aren't just tourists; you are guests. You might help with the harvest or learn about the intricate irrigation canals that predate the Incas. The afternoon of Day 5 is entirely dedicated to participating in daily village life, offering a genuine connection with the Collagua culture that few rushed tourists ever experience.
What happens if I can't finish the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a one-way path with no roads, so once you start, you must finish—but you are supported. The pace is steady, not a race. Porters carry the heavy gear, and guides are trained to help you manage your energy. If you have serious concerns beforehand, you can opt out of the trekking portion (at the time of booking) and take the train to meet the group at Machu Picchu, though you would miss the magical arrival through the Sun Gate.
Why go to Lake Titicaca before Cusco?
It is the perfect physiological bridge. Lake Titicaca sits at 3,800m, which is higher than Cusco (3,400m). Spending time here (Days 6-8) walking on islands like Taquile and sleeping in Llachón forces your body to produce even more red blood cells. When you finally descend to Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you often feel "superhuman" and full of energy, ready for the trek.
Is the Amazon portion just a zoo visit?
Far from it. You fly to Puerto Maldonado to enter the Tambopata National Reserve, a true biodiversity hotspot. You stay in a lodge accessible only by boat. The activities are wild: walking to Lake Sachavacayoc to spot giant river otters, night walks to see tarantulas and caimans, and listening to the deafening chorus of howler monkeys at dawn. It is an immersive, humid, and vibrant finale to your dry Andean adventure.
What about the "Warmi Wañusca" pass? Everyone talks about it.
Day 12 is the infamous "Dead Woman's Pass" day, reaching 4,200m. It is the hardest physical day of the entire 17-day trip. However, because you have spent over a week acclimatizing in Arequipa and Puno, you have a massive advantage over trekkers who just arrived from sea level. It will still be hard work, but it won't be the headache-inducing struggle it is for others.
Do I need special gear for the jungle leg?
Yes, but it's different from your trekking gear. For the Amazon (Days 15-17), you need loose, light-colored clothing (to avoid attracting bugs), long sleeves, and plenty of strong insect repellent containing DEET. While it's hot, you cover up to protect against mosquitoes. The lodge provides rubber boots for muddy walks, so you don't need to ruin your hiking boots in the jungle mud.
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
