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Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
The "El Cóndor Pasa in Peru" tour is a 17-day tour in Peru that combines culture, nature, and trekking in the country's most emblematic destinations. From Lima and Arequipa, with their colonial architecture and majestic volcanoes, to the Colca Canyon, home of the Andean Condor, each stage offers unique landscapes. You will navigate Lake Titicaca and stay with ancestral communities in Uros, Amantaní, and Taquile. In Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you will discover the Inca heritage before embarking on the Apu Salkantay Trek, which includes the Rainbow Mountain and culminates at the magical Machu Picchu.
Discover the most impressive landscapes and the cultural richness of Peru with our "El Cóndor Pasa in Peru" tour. This 17-day adventure starts in Lima, the gastronomic capital of South America, and continues to the enchanting Arequipa, the White City, famous for its colonial architecture.
In Cusco, the former heart of the Inca Empire, embark on the unforgettable Apu Salkantay trek—ranked among the world’s top 25 hikes by National Geographic. The route includes the stunning Rainbow Mountain and culminates in magical Machu Picchu.
We will travel to the impressive Colca Canyon, home to the majestic Andean Condor, one of the best bird-watching locations in Peru. Then, we will explore the mystical Lake Titicaca in Puno, navigating the islands of Uros, Amantaní, and Taquile, where you will encounter ancestral cultures.
In Cusco, the ancient heart of the Inca Empire, we will begin an unforgettable trek along the Apu Salkantay route, one of the 25 best treks in the world according to National Geographic. The journey includes the spectacular Rainbow Mountain and culminates at the magical Machu Picchu.
Itinerary The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – Welcome to Peru
Meet & greet at Jorge Chávez International Airport and private transfer to your hotel in Lima, Peru’s cultural and culinary capital.
Included:
Personalized assistance
Private transportation
Hotel accommodation
Day 2: Lima – Arequipa, The White City
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Arequipa, known for its colonial charm and the Misti volcano. Free time to acclimate.
Included:
Assistance
Transportation
Domestic flight
Breakfast
Hotel accommodation
Day 3: Arequipa City Tour – Heritage and Volcanoes
Visit highlights such as the Carmen Alto viewpoint, Yanahuara, the Cathedral, Plaza de Armas, and the Santa Catalina Monastery.
Included
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Breakfast
Day 4: Arequipa – Colca Valley – Local Experience
Travel through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve to Coporaque. Overnight in a local homestay for a cultural immersion.
Included:
Transportation
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Local homestay accommodation
Day 5: Condor’s Cross – Puno
Early visit to the Condor’s Cross to watch the Andean condors in flight. Continue by tourist bus to Puno, by Lake Titicaca.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel accommodation
Day 6: Lake Titicaca – Uros and Amantaní Islands
Private boat tour on Lake Titicaca to the floating Uros Islands and Amantaní. Overnight in a local home for a full cultural experience.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Private boat
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Local homestay accommodation
Day 7: Taquile Island – Living Culture
Explore UNESCO-recognized Taquile Island, known for its ancient weaving traditions. Return to Puno
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Boat
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel accommodation
Day 8: Puno – Cusco via the Route of the Sun
Scenic bus journey with stops at Pukara, La Raya pass, Raqchi Temple, and Andahuaylillas.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel accommodation
Day 9: Cusco City Tour – Inca Capital
Explore the Plaza de Armas, Cathedral, Qoricancha Temple, and archaeological complexes of Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transportation
Breakfast
Hotel accommodation
Day 10: Cusco – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
Begin the Salkantay Trek. Hike from Challacancha to Soraypampa, with an optional visit to the stunning Humantay Lake.
Included:
Professional guide
Transportation
Campsite
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 11: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay
Cross the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft) and descend into lush cloud forests.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Campsite
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 12: Chaullay – Colpapampa – La Playa
Trek through the cloud forest and along an ancient Inca trail. Camp overnight at La Playa.
Included:
Professional guide
Campsite
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 13: La Playa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Final day of trekking. Hike to Hidroelectrica, enjoy a farewell lunch with the cook team, and continue to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Included
Professional guide
Transportation
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel accommodation
Day 14: Machu Picchu – World Heritage Site
Guided tour of the Inca citadel. Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (not included). Train back to Ollantaytambo.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance to Machu Picchu
Bus transfers
Train to Ollantaytambo
Hotel accommodation
Day 15: Ollantaytambo – Maras and Moray – Cusco
Visit the Maras Salt Mines and the circular agricultural terraces of Moray. End the day in Chinchero, the Rainbow City.
Included:
Transportation
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel accommodation
Day 16: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Full-day adventure to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, over 5,000 meters above sea level, famous for its colorful mineral layers.
Included:
Transportation
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel accommodation
Day 17: Cusco – Lima – International Departure
Free time based on your flight schedule. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima and international connection.
Included:
Transportation
Assistance
Flight Cusco – Lima
Breakfast
Includes The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
Transportation:
Airport transfers in Lima and Cusco
Flights: Lima–Arequipa, Cusco–Lima
Round-trip train: Ollantaytambo–Aguas Calientes
Tourist buses between Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, and Cusco
All local transfers and transport per itinerary
Accommodation:
Hotels in Lima, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco
Local homestays in Chivay and Amantaní
Campsites during Salkantay trek
Meals:
Daily breakfast
Lunch and dinner on specific days as per itinerary
Activities & Tours:
Airport pickup and transfer in Lima
Arequipa city tour
Colca Canyon tour with condor viewpoint and community visit
Lake Titicaca tours to Uros, Amantaní, and Taquile Islands
Route of the Sun bus tour to Cusco
Cusco city tour and archaeological sites
Full Salkantay Trek with guide, meals, and logistics
Guided visit to Machu Picchu
Excursions to Maras, Moray, Chinchero, and Rainbow Mountain
Additional Services:
Professional guide throughout the tour
All entrance fees
Airport assistance
Private boat on Lake Titicaca
Not Included The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
Travel insurance
International flights
Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bags, trekking poles – available for rent from the agency)
Lunches and dinners not mentioned in the program (between USD 5 and 10 per meal)
Drinks
Tips
Recommendations The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
Health & Safety:
Altitude: Take precautions against altitude sickness in Cusco and Colca Canyon—hydrate well, rest, and consider altitude medication.
Vaccines: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccines (e.g., yellow fever).
Travel Insurance: Ensure coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage.
Preparation & Packing:
Documents: Carry valid passport and visa (if required). Keep backup copies of important documents.
Clothing: Pack for varied climates: light clothes for warm days and warm layers for high-altitude regions like Rainbow Mountain.
Footwear: Bring comfortable walking/trekking shoes.
Accessories: Camera, chargers, power adapters, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, warm hat.
Culture & Etiquette:
Respect: Embrace and respect local customs and traditions.
Language: Knowing a few basic Spanish phrases will be appreciated.
Cuisine: Try local dishes—from ceviche in Lima to traditional highland food in Cusco and Arequipa.
Organization & Planning:
Itinerary: Review and carry a printed itinerary and hotel contact details.
Money: Carry enough Peruvian soles. Not all places accept cards. Notify your bank about international travel.
Bookings: Confirm all accommodations, trains, and tours in advance.
Experience & Enjoyment:
Photography: Capture memories but respect local communities and protected sites.
Connections: Engage with locals—homestays offer unforgettable insight.
Relaxation: Enjoy downtime. Travel is also about rest and reflection.
Emergency:
Contacts: Keep embassy, insurance, and hotel numbers handy.
Medication: Bring necessary medications and enough supply for the entire trip.
Follow these recommendations to ensure a safe, fulfilling journey through Peru. We wish you an unforgettable adventure!
Photo Gallery The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
Frequently Asked Questions The Ultimate Active Peru: Salkantay Trek & Southern Circuit (17 Days)
What makes this the "Ultimate Active" tour?
This itinerary is a hybrid beast. It starts with the cultural and scenic wonders of the coast and southern Andes to build your fitness and acclimatization. Then, instead of taking the train to Machu Picchu like standard tours, you spend 5 days trekking the Salkantay Route. It combines a road trip, a cultural immersion, and a high-altitude expedition into one seamless package.
How is the acclimatization strategy designed?
It is a masterclass in physiology. You don't jump straight to the trek. You follow a "staircase" ascent: Lima/Paracas (Days 1–3): Sea level. Arequipa (Day 4–5): 2,300m (intermediate). Colca Canyon/Puno (Days 6–9): 3,600m–3,800m (high altitude conditioning). Cusco (Day 10–11): 3,400m. By the time you start the Salkantay Trek on Day 12, your red blood cells are fully adapted, making the hike much safer and more enjoyable.
What adventures await on the Coast and in Arequipa?
The trip kicks off with adrenaline. You’ll navigate the Ballestas Islands to see marine wildlife and ride sandbuggies in the Huacachina desert. In Arequipa, you explore the volcanic sillar architecture of the city and the Santa Catalina Monastery before heading deep into the Colca Canyon to hike along the canyon rim and spot Andean Condors.
How do we experience Lake Titicaca (Day 9)?
Before the big trek, you have a day of "active recovery" on the water. You’ll boat to the Uros Floating Islands and hike the stone paths of Taquile Island. It’s a crucial mental break where you connect with the peaceful rhythm of the lake dwellers and their textile traditions before the intensity of the Cusco region.
Why choose the Salkantay Trek over the Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek (Days 12–16) is chosen for its landscape diversity. Unlike the Inca Trail, which is mostly stone steps and ruins, Salkantay takes you to the foot of a massive glacier (Humantay Lake), over a snowy mountain pass at 4,600m, and then drops you into the steamy high jungle coffee plantations. It is wilder, less crowded, and more scenic.
Is the "Humantay Lake" included?
Yes, usually on the first day of the trek. You hike up to this turquoise jewel that sits at the base of the Humantay Glacier. It is one of the most photographed spots in Peru. Because you are on the Salkantay trek, you often arrive there before the day-trippers from Cusco, giving you a moment of solitude with the mountain spirits (Apus).
What is the "climax" of the Salkantay Trek?
The final walk into Aguas Calientes follows the train tracks through the cloud forest, building anticipation. On Day 16, you enter Machu Picchu. Because you’ve spent 4 days walking around the back of the mountain to get there, the first view of the citadel feels like a hard-earned conquest rather than just a tourist visit.
Who is the ideal traveler for this 17-day marathon?
This is for the dedicated hiker. If you are fit, love camping under the stars, and want to experience every climate zone Peru has to offer—from the desert heat to the glacial cold and the jungle humidity—this is the definitive itinerary for you.
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
