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Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking

Ancient Wonders, Day Hikes & Luxury Hotels

 

Discover both the cultural and scenic highlights of Peru, from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Combine awe-inspiring day-hikes through fertile valleys and highland plateaus with a rich mix of visits to ancient sites and interactive experiences in traditional villages - all from the comfort of perfectly located luxury hotels. Cap it off with a half-day hiking up the classic Inca Trail to the legendary lost citadel of Machu Picchu, and a full day to experience the site at a leisurely pace the following day. This inspiring eight-day trip captures the best features of Peru in an achievable hiking adventure you won't soon forget!

  • Enjoy scenic day hikes to ancient fortresses and out-of-the-way villages

  • Experience a half-day hike on the classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu

  • Spend a full day exploring Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas"

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Cusco, Peru

Depart:

Cusco, Peru

Price: from $3,995

Duration:

8 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

4-16 Guests

Min Age:

16 yrs

Activity:

Level 3

Hiking 1-3 hours on most days and up to 6 hours on the optional hike to Machu Picchu. You\'ll be at altitudes of up to 11,200\' in Cusco, so you should be in good health and physical condition.
Learn more here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

  • Arrive in Cusco

    Day 1

    Arrive in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Meet your MT Sobek representative at the airport and transfer to your hotel on the city's main square. In the early afternoon, meet your Adventure Guide for a walking tour that introduces you to the history of the Inca civilization and its former capital with its ornate cathedrals, adobe walls, carved balconies, hidden courtyards, and cobblestone streets. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at Uchu, a local fine-dining restaurant located near the Cusco Main Square and featuring contemporary Peruvian cuisine.

    Accommodation: Palacio del Inka

    Housed in a 500-year old mansion, the exquisite Palacio del Inka is located in the historic center of Cusco, just a five-minute walk from the main square. The rooms are beautifully appointed, decorated with Peruvian art, handcrafted furnishings and modern conveniences and comforts, such as LED TV, high-speed Internet access, and comfortable beds.

    Activity: 3-hour walking tour of Cusco

    Transportation: 30-minute airport transfer

    Meals: Dinner

  • Explore Chinchero and Hike at Moray & Maras

    Day 2

    Depart Cusco this morning and head to the Urubamba Valley, known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Stop en route for the ultimate foodie experience! Located in Chinchero, half way between Cusco and the Sacred Valley, Agricultural Engineer Manuel Choqque researches and experiments with native potatoes and tubers to improve their nutritional composition, and in the process produces a rich variety of colors, flavors and textures that are grabbing the attention of the culinary world. He welcomes you privately for a fascinating presentation about his work, as well as a chance to taste traditional uchucuta sauce, made out of Peruvian hot peppers, and his surprisingly delicious Andean tuber and potato wines. Also learn how traditional Andean textiles are made during a private demonstration, and stroll through Chinchero's lively weekly market. Continue to the ancient site of Moray to see its impressive circular terraces that were used by the Incas as a botanical laboratory. Stop for a memorable lunch prepared by top chefs at the Iskay Maras Home, surrounded by a lovely landscape of high mountains and green fields. Visit the salt pans of Maras, where one of the finest salts in the world is extracted. The patchwork effect of hundreds of salt pans in varying shades of white, pink and beige is wonderfully photogenic. Hike from Maras down to the town of Pichingoto, at the bottom of the Sacred Valley, then drive the short distance to the hotel to check in. Dinner this evening is at the hotel.

    Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba-Sacred Valley, Peru

    This Inkaterra property is a modern, hacienda-style hotel set on 100 acres in the countryside between Cusco and Machu Picchu. With only 12 rooms and 24 casitas, guests can experience solitude, space, and serenity while taking in breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. The hotel's architecture and interiors reflect the region's cultural history, with colonial furniture, Inca masks, and handcrafted woodwork throughout.

    Activity: 2 hours / 3.4 miles hiking with 86' elevation gain & 500' elevation loss

    Transportation: 3-hour private bus transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike from Pisac Ruins to the Valley Floor

    Day 3

    Explore the ancient ruins of Pisac, perched on a hill high above the valley, and featuring some of the finest Inca stonework in existence as well as beautiful, sweeping terraces that perfectly highlight the contours of the mountain terrain. Hike down through the ruins and then along a network of stairs, tunnels and walkways down to the town of Pisac. Enjoy lunch at Hacienda Huayoccari, a gorgeous gem hidden in the lush fields of the Sacred Valley. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the grounds of this contemporary hacienda-style property surrounded by flowers, mountains and trees.

    Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba-Sacred Valley, Peru

    This Inkaterra property is a modern, hacienda-style hotel set on 100 acres in the countryside between Cusco and Machu Picchu. With only 12 rooms and 24 casitas, guests can experience solitude, space, and serenity while taking in breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. The hotel's architecture and interiors reflect the region's cultural history, with colonial furniture, Inca masks, and handcrafted woodwork throughout.

    Activity: 3-4 hours/6.3 miles hiking with 939' elevation gain & 1,510' elevation loss

    Transportation: 1.5-hour private bus transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike Narrow Trails from Pumamarca to Ollantaytambo

    Day 4

    Follow a dirt road high into the Andes, where you'll observe the native Quechua way of life in local villages. Hike an Incan path from the small archeological complex of Pumamarca to the Choquicancha agricultural terraces, and enjoy a picnic lunch with spectacular views of the Sacred Valley below.

    Next, explore the well-preserved ruins of the monumental fortress at Ollantaytambo, one of the few places where the Inca Empire won a major battle against the Spanish. Also explore the town, a former Incan settlement that retains fascinating vestiges of Incan town planning. On the way home, stop to see an award-winning ceramicist who uses ancient techniques to create unique pieces of art and sculpture.

    Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba-Sacred Valley, Peru

    This Inkaterra property is a modern, hacienda-style hotel set on 100 acres in the countryside between Cusco and Machu Picchu. With only 12 rooms and 24 casitas, guests can experience solitude, space, and serenity while taking in breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. The hotel's architecture and interiors reflect the region's cultural history, with colonial furniture, Inca masks, and handcrafted woodwork throughout.

    Activity: 3 hours/4.5 miles with 350' elevation gain and 1,700' elevation loss; plus 200 steps up and down at Ollantaytambo

    Transportation: 3-hour private bus transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Experience the Legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

    Day 5

    Ride a classic Vistadome train up the narrowing gorge of the Urubamba River, disembarking at kilometer 104. Then, begin your half-day hike along the Inca Trail to the lost citadel of Machu Picchu. Stop first to visit the small Incan site of Chachabamba, then begin to climb upwards, emerging into a lovely cloud forest, and past a waterfall to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Continue ascending ancient stone steps and the narrow trail up to Intipunku, the original entrance to Machu Picchu. Pause to absorb the awesome view, then follow the trail down to Machu Picchu itself, arriving mid-afternoon. Continue by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes and relax at the hotel for the rest of your day. (Optionally, skip the hike, continue by train, and explore Aguas Calientes on your own in the afternoon.)

    Accommodation: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel-Aguas Calientes

    A village in its own right, Inkaterra Machu Picchu comprises 83 whitewashed casitas set among 12 acres of cloud forest complete with terraced hills, waterfalls, and lush gardens. The individual casitas feature inviting beds and rustically elegant decor. Diners in the first-class restaurant can indulge in Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist, while admiring views over the Vilcanota River.

    Activity: 6 hours/7 miles hiking with 1,640' elevation gain

    Transportation: 1.5-hour train ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore Magical Machu Picchu

    Day 6

    Enter the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu by morning light. Take a highly informative tour of the site's main structures and learn about their importance in the lives of the Incas. Take a challenging climb up either Machu Picchu's Old Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional and based on availability for the date) and be rewarded by breathtaking views of the citadel and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy lunch, then return to the hotel to relax, join an excursion, or stroll the lush gardens, including the world's largest native orchid collection with 372 species.

    Accommodation: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel-Aguas Calientes

    A village in its own right, Inkaterra Machu Picchu comprises 83 whitewashed casitas set among 12 acres of cloud forest complete with terraced hills, waterfalls, and lush gardens. The individual casitas feature inviting beds and rustically elegant decor. Diners in the first-class restaurant can indulge in Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist, while admiring views over the Vilcanota River.

    Activity: 3 hours guided walking tour of Machu Picchu, plus 2-3 hours/2 miles optional hiking

    Transportation: 30-minute public bus

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Journey back to Cusco

    Day 7

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, with time for a short local hike or relaxing at the hotel. Mid-morning, catch the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo, arriving around noon. Enjoy a traditional Pachamanca lunch of poultry, potatoes, and vegetables, cooked underground with hot stones according to a technique that has lived on since the Incan Empire. You are in for a unique experience! After lunch, continue back to Cusco and check in to the hotel. In the evening, explore Cusco before a festive farewell dinner at one of the city's best restaurants.

    Accommodation: Palacio del Inka

    Housed in a 500-year old mansion, the exquisite Palacio del Inka is located in the historic center of Cusco, just a five-minute walk from the main square. The rooms are beautifully appointed, decorated with Peruvian art, handcrafted furnishings and modern conveniences and comforts, such as LED TV, high-speed Internet access, and comfortable beds.

    Transportation: 1.5-hour train ride, 1.5 hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Bid Farewell to Cusco & Fly Home

    Day 8

    After breakfast at the hotel and a leisurely morning, depart on homeward-bound flights.

    Meals: Breakfast

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Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

Drawing on over 40 years of experience in the region, MT Sobek can be relied on for expert leadership.

Reason #02

This itinerary truly immerses you in the native culture and provides the most complete introduction to Inca history.

Reason #03

We've put together a trip that includes excellent regional food and the finest accommodations.

Meet your guides

Manuel Luna

Manuel Luna

Manuel started out as a field assistant with MT Sobek more than 20 years ago, and is now considered one of the best trek and tour leaders in Peru. He graduated with a degree in agriculture and when not guiding trips, he raises white corn on a farm in a valley near Cusco. Manuel's knowledge of the local Quechua language combined with his extensive studies in Inca culture, provide a unique understanding of the Andean people. His love of Peru and easygoing manner make him the ideal traveling companion.

Manolo Lazo

Manolo Lazo

Manolo is one of Peru's most skilled adventure travel guides, with more than 20 years of experience leading treks and whitewater rafting trips. A resident of Cusco, Manolo is well versed in the rich history of the Andes and the classic trekking routes that trace the footsteps of the Inca trade paths. His knowledge of the region, people, and traditions immensely enrich the travel experience. He is fluent in English as well as Spanish, and conversant in Quechua-the historic language of the Incas-and he has a gift for instilling confidence in every trekker.

Activities

Exploring remote mountain villages on foot, a spectacular train ride, hiking the Inca trail, and discovering the splendor of Machu Picchu.

Lodging

A highlight of the trip, accommodations include a 16th-century convent, whitewashed casitas, and a hacienda-style hotel.

Climate

Mild during the dry season, although it often cools down at night. Temperatures from 55°F-75°F. Jackets are necessary at night any time of the year.

FAQ

Who will meet me on arrival?

You will be met by a MT Sobek representative upon arrival at the airport in Cusco and transferred to your hotel.

Is it safe to drink the water?

We will provide purified water during the trip. We recommend that you bring a water bottle to replenish your supply of purified water along the way.

Do I need to bring walking poles?

They are recommended to give you support and balance.

Do I have to bring hiking boots?

The terrain can be rocky and uneven - hiking boots will help protect your feet.

Are hairdryers available at all hotels?

Yes - all hotels on this program offer hair dryers.

Are there many mosquitoes in Cusco and Machu Picchu?

Some travelers have been bothered by mosquitoes at Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. We recommend that you bring mosquito repellent, and lightweight layers to cover arms and legs.

quechua kid - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking
group at moray earth works - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking
morning sun from machu picchu - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking
ollantaytambo ruins - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking
llama on terrace - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking
misty machu picchu - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking
boots at machu picchu - Peru Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Hiking

Reviews from Trustpilot


This was a "bucket list" trip, and more than lived up to our expectations. We are old-ish, but in good shape, and our guide, Manuel (subtly) made sure we were fit enough for the hike from the last train stop before Macchu Picchu to the Heaven Gate, looking down at an amazing panorama of an amazing place. More than that, he was an extremely knowledgable guide, about everything from the history of the Incas and…

Judith Adler
MT Sobek Guest


The hike was exhilarating! A lot more difficult than we anticipated but certainly worth the trip.

Coleen Matsuno
MT Sobek Guest

Trustpilot
  • 2022
  • 2023
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

2022

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Jul 09 - 16, 2022
    $4,095 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    WaitlistConfirmed
    Contact us
  • Sep 02 - 09, 2022
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Waitlist
    Contact us
  • Oct 08 - 15, 2022
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities to drivers, and all gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

2023

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • May 14 - 21, 2023
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Jul 09 - 16, 2023
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Aug 13 - 20, 2023
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 03 - 10, 2023
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Oct 15 - 22, 2023
    $3,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,050 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities to drivers, and all gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

5 to 7 guests from $4,195 per person double occupancy

4 guests from $4,495 per person double occupancy

3 guests from $4,795 per person double occupancy

2 guests from $5,395 per person double occupancy

Additional Costs:

Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Take Over One of These Dates

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

  • March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
    Make My Own Date

Price Includes

  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities to drivers, and all gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure

Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

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