Day 1: ARRIVAL IN CUSCO AND SACRED VALLEY ACCLIMATIZATION
Welcome to beautiful Perú! At the airport, look for your Juve Travel Peru host holding a sign with your name on it. From the airport in Cusco, we will drive on our private transportation to the Sacred Valley for some unique Peruvian experiences. This day will help your acclimatization to the higher altitude. The journey from Cusco follows a beautiful mountain with views of the stunning valley below, formed by the Urubamba River. After we descend into the valley, our first stop will be at the Pisac Market, where we will see colorful Peruvian handicrafts. Then we will go to the Pisac archeological site for a walking tour of the Inca site. From there, we will continue through the Sacred Valley for lunch and on to the hotel to relax and spend the night.
- Overnight: Sacred Valley
- Meals: Lunch
Day 2 : SACRED VALLEY TOUR
This morning we go to Chinchero, a place sacred to the Incas because it is the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. Inhabitants live amongst almost untouched Inca constructions in the same way that our ancestors lived. In this weaving village, local people have preserved a living heritage expressed in the handcrafted textiles. Artisans from Chinchero are happy to show you their ancient technique of how the wool of alpaca and sheep is prepared, washed, spun, dyed, and woven into their works of art. Then we will go to Moray, an important Inca site whose multi-terraces architecture made it an advanced bio-agricultural laboratory in its time. Enjoy the natural beauty while you marvel at the mysterious circular terraces, which some historians believe were created as mini-microclimates used to grow different crops. After exploring Moray, we will go to the incredible salt ponds of Maras. Originally mined by the Incas, these ancient and colorful pools are now individually owned and tended by local people. Enjoy lunch in Urubamba before continuing to Ollantaytambo, one of the few remaining Inca cities in the Sacred Valley that has retained its original Inca urban planning. We will climb up the terraces toward the Temple of the Sun, where we can enjoy views of the valley and see the quarries that provided the stones for Ollantaytambo. Return to your hotel in the afternoon and relax on your own.
- Overnight: Sacred Valley
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: ONE DAY INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU
After breakfast, we will travel by private transportation to the train station at Ollantaymbo to board the scenic train and travel to Km 104, the starting point of the trek. We ascend gradually to Wiñay Wayna, the best-preserved Inca site around Machu Picchu, visiting Chachabamba on the way. We continue on the stone-paved Inca Trail through the cloud forest to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where we will have a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and some time to enjoy the magical Inca city at sunset. Then we will go by bus to Aguas Calientes, where our hotel and dinner will be waiting for us.
- Overnight: Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 4: MACHU PICCHU TOUR
Indulge in the allure of Machu Picchu with a delightful start to the day, commencing with an early breakfast at your hotel. Embark on a journey of discovery as we board the bus, retracing our steps back to the enigmatic ruins of Machu Picchu. Here, immerse yourself in the rich history and mystique of this ancient Incan city with a comprehensive guided tour. Led by our knowledgeable guide, unravel the secrets behind the intricate stone structures, sacred temples, and revered landmarks that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Following the enlightening exploration, descend to the charming town of Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved lunch, where you can savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine amidst the scenic surroundings. After replenishing our energy, we’ll board the train bound for Ollantaytambo, traversing through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, our private transportation awaits to whisk us away on a comfortable journey back to the heart of Cusco. Reflect on the day’s adventures and bask in the memories of Machu Picchu as we return to the embrace of our hotel, marking the conclusion of a truly unforgettable experience in Machu Picchu.
- Overnight: Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5:DISCOVER CUSCO
Today we go by private transport to explore the nearby Inca site of Sacsayhuaman, where you will view the impressive architecture of the Incas and the massive stones used in the fortress overlooking Cusco. We will visit Qenqo, a labyrinth with carved stone walls. Then continue to Puka Pukara, which is believed to be a defense fortress and is made up of large walls, terraces, and staircases. End your visit at the Incan bath and water temple of Tambo Machay. Spend the remainder of the day shopping, dining, and exploring the diversity and rich culture of Cusco!
- Overnight: Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: ANDEAN EXPLORER LUXURY TRAIN TO PUNO
Today you will be taken to Wanchaq Station to board the Belmond Andean Explorer luxury train. Settle down and unwind in your luxurious suite as the train begins its journey southeast toward Puno. Savor your first lunch on board in one of the elegant dining cars, where refined Andean specialties are served with contemporary flair. Enjoy beautiful scenery, fine dining, and entertainment as you make the ten-hour trip to Puno.
- Overnight: Puno
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 7: LAKE TITICACA, LOS UROS, AND AMANTANI ISLAND
Awake early to catch the breathtaking sunrise across Lake Titicaca before enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Today’s tours explore the eclectic beauty and diversity of life on Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the entire world. First, you will take a boat ride to the Uros Islands, stunning man-made islands carefully created from woven reeds that are constantly replenished. The Uros Islands are an ancient community that has lived off the natural resources of the lake for thousands of years. Then we continue our journey on the lake to Amantani Island. Your host family will meet you at the port and take you to their home for a typical lunch made from fresh produce. In the late afternoon, you can climb to the highest point on the island to see the sunset. After dinner prepared by your hosts, the family will dress you up in traditional local clothing and take you to the community hall for a celebration.
- Overnight: Amantani Island
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8: TAQUILE ISLAND TO PUNO
After breakfast with the family, we depart for a one-hour boat ride to Taquile Island, where a long, gradually ascending path will take us to the village. The locals will welcome us to explore their island and see their excellent handcrafted weavings. We will enjoy lunch at one of the local, family-run restaurants. The views are simply magnificent. In the afternoon, we will return by boat to Puno.
- Overnight: Puno
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 9: DEPARTURE FROM PUNO
We will take you to the airport in Juliaca by private transportation for your flight back across the Andes to Lima to connect with your flight home or on to your next destination.
Alternatively, choose one of our other exciting Peru tours to extend your Peru vacation.
