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Hi there, I'm Ifti, a passionate traveler and trip planner. I curated this Peru trip because I believe travel is the best way to connect with new places and people. It's all about exploring, enjoying local culture, and creating unforgettable experiences together. If you're ready for an adventure with like-minded travelers, I'd love for you to join me!
The sound of vibrant Andean music fills the air as you wander through bustling markets alive with colorful textiles and the scent of roasting corn. Ancient stone terraces stretch across the mountainsides, whispering stories of empires long gone but never forgotten. This trip invites you to dive deep into Peru’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and cuisine, where every meal is a celebration and every path leads to a new discovery. For those who crave adventure with a side of soulful connection, this journey through Cusco and the Sacred Valley offers a perfect blend of exploration, hands-on experiences, and unforgettable encounters that will leave you inspired and craving more.
Your Peruvian adventure begins as you arrive in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and a city where history and contemporary life blend seamlessly.
After your domestic flight from Lima, you will be transferred to your accommodation to settle in.
The afternoon features a guided city orientation on foot, lasting about an hour to an hour and a half, designed to introduce you to Cusco’s vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and Incan ruins that peek through the cityscape. This walk offers a glimpse into Cusco’s layered past, from its origins as the heart of the Inca civilization to its transformation under Spanish rule.
As night falls, gather for a welcome dinner accompanied by traditional entertainment, where you will experience the rhythms and flavors of Peruvian culture, setting the tone for the days ahead.
After breakfast and check-out, the journey continues into the Sacred Valley, a region that was once the agricultural heartland of the Incas.
Your first stop is Chinchero, a village known for its vibrant textiles and colonial church built atop Inca foundations. Here, you will be welcomed with music and a community lunch, offering a chance to connect with local traditions.
Next, visit Moray, an extraordinary Inca experimental farm featuring concentric terraces that were used to study microclimates and optimize crop production.
Then explore the Salineras de Maras, a centuries-old network of natural salt pans that continue to be harvested by local families using traditional methods.
For those feeling adventurous, an optional hike into the valley reveals stunning landscapes and ancient terraces.
The day concludes with a unique cultural experience involving chica (a traditional fermented corn drink) making and a game called Sapo, deepening your understanding of local customs before returning to your accommodation for a free evening.
Begin the day early with a transfer to Ollantaytambo train station for a scenic ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
From there, a shuttle takes you up to the archaeological complex where you will have the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos before embarking on a guided tour.
Machu Picchu stands as one of the most remarkable engineering feats of the ancient world, with its perfectly crafted stone terraces, temples, and plazas nestled high in the Andes. Your guide will share the history and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage site, explaining its significance as a royal estate and spiritual center.
After descending back to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch and free time to explore the town’s markets and hot springs before the return train journey to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to your accommodation for a restful evening.
Following breakfast and check-out, travel to Pisac, a market town renowned for its vibrant artisan market and Inca ruins. Here, you will visit a local community where you can participate in workshops that showcase traditional crafts such as weaving or pottery, providing a hands-on connection to Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
Lunch features Pachamanca, a traditional Andean meal cooked underground with hot stones, celebrating the ancient agricultural cycle and Pachamama, or Mother Earth.
After lunch, enjoy time to browse local shops and the bustling market, where colorful textiles, ceramics, and jewelry reflect centuries of indigenous artistry. The day ends with check-in at your accommodation and a free evening to relax or explore.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring back to Cusco.
The afternoon is dedicated to a visit to a horse ranch, where you can experience the Andean countryside on horseback and enjoy light snacks. This activity offers a different perspective on the region’s landscape and traditions, connecting you to the rural lifestyle that has persisted for centuries.
After returning to the city, you will have free time to wander Cusco’s lively streets before gathering for a farewell dinner downtown. This special meal celebrates the friendships forged and the incredible cultural and historical discoveries made throughout the trip.
On your final day, enjoy breakfast before checking out and transferring to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport for your flight back to Lima.
Although the journey concludes here, the memories of ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and the warmth of Peruvian culture will continue to inspire long after you leave the Andes behind.