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Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
This comprehensive 13-Day Peru Grand Circuit meticulously combines historical sightseeing, high-altitude trekking, and deep cultural immersion. The initial days focus on Lima and the UNESCO-listed city of Cusco, including a magnificent hike through the hills to visit the major surrounding Inca ruins: Tambomachay, Qenqo, and the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuamán. The core of the itinerary is the challenging 4-Day Lares Trek, traversing remote high-altitude pastures and conquering the demanding Pisac Pass (4,550 m). This trek culminates with visits to the strategic sites of Pumamarca and Ollantaytambo before the ultimate goal: a guided tour of the legendary Machu Picchu.
Experience the living culture of the Andes through multiple authentic homestays throughout the journey. During the Lares Trek, you will share meals and traditions with local shepherd families in isolated villages like Cochayoc and Patacancha, gaining a rare glimpse into a life largely untouched by the outside world. The third phase focuses on the Altiplano, featuring a beautiful drive across the La Raya Pass to Lake Titicaca. Here, you will stay in the Llachón community and sail to the unique floating islands of Uros Titino and the weaving communities of Taquile, providing an intimate connection to the Aymara and Quechua worlds.
This thoughtfully crafted journey is the ideal choice for travelers seeking a maximum coverage of Peru's historical and natural wonders, integrated with genuine cultural exchange. From the cyclopean architecture of Sacsayhuamán to the breathtaking, glaciated views from the Pisac Pass, and the sacred waters of Lake Titicaca, every day is packed with unforgettable experiences. This all-inclusive tour covers flights (Lima-Cusco, Puno-Lima), professional guiding, train tickets, quality accommodation (hotels/homestays), and all trekking logistics (mules/horses). Book your 13-Day Peru Mega-Circuit today and embark on the most complete cultural and trekking adventure the Andes has to offer!
Duration: 13 days
Porterage: Only your daypack
Accommodation: Hotels, camping, and local homestays
Guide: Private English-speaking guide
Level: Moderate
Itinerary Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima
Arrival in Lima and assistance at the airport. Private transfer to your hotel in Miraflores along the Pacific coast.
Included:
Airport assistance (English-speaking)
Private vehicle
Hotel in Lima
Day 2 – Lima - Cusco
Early transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, reception and transfer to your hotel.
Afternoon at leisure to acclimatize and wander the streets of the former Inca capital—often considered the most beautiful city in South America.
Included:
Airport assistance (English-speaking)
Private vehicle
Flight Lima–Cusco
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast
Day 3 – Cusco - Tambomachay - Pucapucara - Qenqo - Sacsayhuaman
A magnificent hike through the hills above Cusco. Transfer to Tambomachay (3700 m), the Temple of Water, where you begin your walk. Continue to Puca Pucara, an ancient fortress guarding the entrance to the capital, then to Qenqo, an important ritual center carved into limestone.
Finish with a visit to the imposing fortress of Sacsayhuaman, famous for its massive stone walls, before walking back to Cusco (3350 m), the “navel of the Inca world.”
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private vehicle
Breakfast
Hotel in Cusco
Day 4 – Cusco (3350 m) - Pisac (3400 m) - Lares (3500 m)
Departure for Pisac and visit of its impressive archaeological complex—terraces, fountains, neighborhoods, observatories, and the largest cemetery in the region. Continue to the local artisans' market before heading to Lares for your overnight stay.
Optional visit to the thermal hot springs (entrance not included).
Included:
English-speaking local guide
Private vehicle
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay overnight
Day 5 – Lares - Rosas Pata - Cochayoc (3745 m)
After breakfast, pack lamas and horses and begin the trek. Walk along the Lares Valley with stunning balcony views over the river below. Continue uphill to Rosas Pata, then follow a scenic trail toward the village of Cochayoc—“village with a lake” in Quechua—home to local shepherd families.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay overnight
Approx. 8 hours of hiking
Day 6 – Cochayoc - Pampa Wasi (4200 m) - Pisac Pass (4550 m) - Challwacocha (4280 m)
If the weather allows, enjoy panoramic views of the Terijuay mountain range and Yanacocha Lagoon. Continue on high-altitude pastures toward Cuypan Pass (4550 m).
Climb to the Pisac Pass for spectacular views before reaching a lakeside campsite near the remote community of Challwacocha—long isolated from the valleys below.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay overnight
Approx. 8 hours of hiking
Day 7 – Challwacocha - Patacancha
Walk through shepherd settlements and meet local children greeting you along the way. Reach Yauricunca Pass (4152 m) and descend gradually to Patacancha, a traditional Andean community where you will spend the evening.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay overnight
Approx. 6 hours of hiking
Elevation gain: +750 m / loss: –1250 m
Day 8 – Patacancha - Pumamarca - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
Farewell to the community and drive to the archaeological site of Pumamarca. After your visit, hike down to Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Breakfast, lunch
Train to Aguas Calientes
Hotel overnight
Approx. 5 hours of hiking
Day 9 – Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo
At dawn, take the bus to Machu Picchu for a full guided tour of the Lost City of the Incas: agricultural terraces, urban sectors, temples, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Return to Aguas Calientes in the afternoon and take the train to Ollantaytambo.
Optional add-ons (must be booked in advance):
Huayna Picchu ascent
Machu Picchu Mountain ascent
Included:
English-speaking guide
Train to Ollantaytambo
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Day 10 – Ollantaytambo - Moray - Maras - Chinchero - Cusco
Visit the impressive terraces and fortress of Ollantaytambo, then continue to the salt ponds of Maras, exploited since Inca times.
Proceed to the agricultural laboratory of Moray before returning to Cusco with a final stop at the ruins of Chinchero.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel in Cusco
Day 11 – Cusco - La Raya Pass (4338 m) - Llachón (3825 m)
Scenic drive across the fertile valley of Cusco toward Lake Titicaca. En route, visit:
Andahuaylillas: the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”
Racchi: Temple of Wiracocha, with terraces, storage houses, and Inca walls
Cross La Raya Pass (4338 m), marking the beginning of the Altiplano, then continue to Llachón on the Capachica Peninsula.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Homestay overnight
Day 12 – Llachón - Uros Titino - Taquile Island - Puno
Boat excursion to the floating islands of Uros Titino. Continue to Taquile Island, entering through the quiet southern side.
Hike up to the main square, meet local weavers, and enjoy a traditional lunch before sailing back to Puno.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private vehicle
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hotel in Puno
Day 13 – Puno - Lima - International Departure
Early transfer to the airport. Your guide will accompany you until boarding your flight to Lima, then onward connection with your international flight.
Included:
Airport assistance
Private transportation
Breakfast
Includes Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
Airport assistance upon arrival and departure
All private ground transportation mentioned in the itinerary
Domestic flights: Lima – Cusco and Puno/Juliaca – Lima (if applicable according to final program)
Train tickets: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
Professional English-speaking local guides throughout the program
All entrance fees to archaeological sites, cultural sites, and natural reserves mentioned in the itinerary
Entrance and guided visit of Machu Picchu
Boat excursion on Lake Titicaca and visits to the islands mentioned
Accommodation in carefully selected hotels
Homestay accommodation with local communities as mentioned in the program
All meals indicated in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner as specified per day)
Trekking logistics, including pack animals (llamas/horses) for equipment transport during the Lares trek
Permanent on-site assistance from our local operations team
Not Included Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
The following services and personal expenses are not included in the tour package:
International flights to and from Peru
Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
Beverages (soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, bottled water, etc.)
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, phone calls, etc.)
Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff (optional but customary)
Optional excursions such as the ascent of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain at Machu Picchu
Entrance to Lares hot springs
Sleeping bag for the trek (available for rent upon request)
Any additional costs caused by delays, strikes, weather conditions, or unforeseen circumstances
Recommendations Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
Health & Acclimatization
Allow time to acclimatize, especially in Cusco and during the trek. Walk at your own pace, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or alcohol during the first days.
Personal Equipment
Comfortable worn-in hiking boots, trekking poles, a 30–40 L daypack, and a headlamp are essential.
Clothing
Pack in layers: breathable shirts, warm fleece, and a waterproof/windproof jacket. Bring a hat, gloves, and lighter clothing for daytime.
Weather
Andean weather is unpredictable. Expect warm daytime sun and cold nights.
Sun Protection
High-altitude UV radiation is strong. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat.
Hygiene & Comfort
Wet wipes, sanitizer, toilet paper, and a refillable water bottle or hydration bladder (with purification) are recommended.
Health & First Aid
Bring personal medications and a basic first-aid kit. Consult your doctor about altitude medication if needed.
Staying with Local Families
Accommodations are simple but welcoming. Respect local customs and enjoy this authentic cultural experience.
Money
Carry small denominations of Peruvian soles for purchases, tips, and local services. ATMs are available in Cusco and Puno.
Respect for Sites & Communities
Do not leave waste, respect archaeological structures, and follow your guide’s instructions.
Safety
Keep valuables secure and stay attentive during transfers.
Group Spirit
Trekking is a shared adventure. Patience, encouragement, and good humor help create an unforgettable experience.
Photo Gallery Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
Frequently Asked Questions Peru Immersion 13-Day : Homestays, Art and The Lost City
What makes the "Lares Trek" in this itinerary different?
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, which is about history and stone ruins, the Lares Trek (Days 4-8) is about living people. You walk through the "Potato Park" region, famous for its biodiversity and weaving traditions. You don't just hike; you visit communities like Cochayoc and Patacancha that are off the main grid. The locals here wear their red ponchos and intricate hats daily, not for tourists, but because it’s their identity. It’s a trek through living backyards, not a museum.
Is the "Art" component a museum tour?
No, it is participatory. In the high-altitude villages of Lares and Patacancha, "art" means survival and tradition. You will witness the incredible skill of backstrap loom weaving, where women create complex patterns from memory—a skill passed down for centuries. Later, in Raqchi (Day 11), you see pottery traditions that date back to pre-Inca times. You aren't just looking at finished products; you are seeing the hands that make them.
Why is the "hike to Sacsayhuamán" special?
Most tours bus you to the gate of Sacsayhuamán, you take a photo, and leave. On Day 3, you hike there from Tambomachay. This ancient path lets you approach Cusco from the hills, walking through the countryside just minutes from the city center. It gives you a sense of the scale of the Inca capital that you simply cannot get from the window of a bus.
What are the "Homestays" really like?
You will experience a variety of them, from the rustic stone houses of the Lares Valley (Days 4-7) to the lakeside tranquility of Llachón (Day 11). Expect simplicity: often no electricity in the sleeping rooms, heavy wool blankets instead of heaters, and shared bathrooms. But the trade-off is immense: shared meals of fresh potato soup, starry skies with zero light pollution, and the genuine warmth of hosts who treat you like distant family returning home.
Is the trek difficult?
Yes, but manageable. The Lares route hits a high point at the Pisac Pass (4,550m). This is high—higher than the Inca Trail’s Dead Woman’s Pass. However, the pace is generally slower and more focused on interaction than speed. You have mule support for your bags, so you only carry a daypack. If you are fit enough to walk 6-8 hours a day and have acclimatized in Cusco (Days 2-3), you will be fine.
Why end in Puno/Lake Titicaca?
Ending at Lake Titicaca (Days 11-13) is a brilliant way to decompress. After the physical exertion of the Lares Trek and the sensory overload of Machu Picchu, the stillness of the lake is healing. The visit to Uros Titino (Day 12) is key—these are the quiet floating islands, far from the commercial chaos of the main Puno bay. It’s a peaceful, reflective conclusion to a busy trip.
Do I need to be a serious hiker?
You need to be active, but not an athlete. The Lares trek is less about steep stone steps (like the Inca Trail) and more about rolling trails and dirt paths. The challenge is the altitude, not the technical terrain. If you can handle a long Sunday hike in the hills back home, you can handle this, provided you respect the acclimatization days.
What is the food situation in the remote villages?
It is fresh, organic, and carb-heavy (perfect for trekking). In the homestays, expect a lot of native potatoes (there are thousands of varieties), quinoa soups, corn, and perhaps trout or alpaca meat. It is simple, hearty peasant food that fuels you perfectly for the cold nights and long walks. If you have dietary restrictions, the families are usually very accommodating if warned in advance.
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
