Your Machu Picchu adventure begins with an early morning pick up from Cusco in private vehicle. After a short drive, you are served a tasty breakfast in the quaint town of Ollantaytambo, located in the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. Next, a scenic and steep drive will take you through the Abra Málaga pass, reaching an altitude of about 4200 meters (1,3779 feet). Here, enjoy views of the breathtaking, snow-capped peak of ‘Veronica’ mountain. Due to the perpetual mist surrounding the area, there is a rich biodiversity. This Conservation Area is home to condors, hummingbirds, Andean bears, orchids, lichens, mosses and much more!

Here is where the real adventure begins. From Abra Malaga you will be one of the very first to explore the Hidden Inca trail! The common misconception is that there is only one Inca Trail, however, in the time of the Inca Empire they built hundreds of intricate trails running north to south and east to west. They did so in order to travel to different regions for various resources. Over the centuries, many of these ‘Inca Trails’ have been covered up by jungle growth. That is, until very recently. Currently, natives living among these jungles have uncovered ancient trails belonging to the Inca people. These newly discovered trails are the ones you will be exploring on your adventure. You will walk as the Incas did!

On today’s 5-6 hour trek, you are in the heart of the Polylepis forest where you can observe spectacular, abundant wildlife, especially birds. Among the large assortment of birds found here, the most well known are the rare Royal Cinclodes, the Ash-breasted Tit-tyrant and the White-browed Tit-Spinetail.

 Next, you will stop at the indigenous villages of  Panticalle, home to the direct descendants of the Inca people. It will feel as though you are transported back in time. Witness vibrant customary garments and centuries-old traditions during this authentic Peruvian experience.

The trek ends in the town of  Panticalle where you are picked up by private transport. On the way to your Lodge in Huyro, visit two impressive Inca ruins where you will learn more about the rich history of the Inca people.

Your accommodation is a charming and relaxing  VisaoLodge. Located on a large plantation overlooking the peaceful valley and teeming with banana trees, coffee bushes, and lush forest. After a short break to settle into your room, the onsite chef will serve a delectable, healthy lunch.

Relax with a steaming cup of delicious, organic tea and/or coffee.

Your night will wrap up with a hearty dinner made from fresh local ingredients at the Lodge!

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the Lodge to prepare for your action-packed day. After a short one-hour scenic drive to the trailhead, your trek begins along the hidden Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the pleasant walk through the temperate rainforest- brimming with lush plants, stunning wildlife, and graceful waterfalls. In addition to rich wildlife, marvel at the newly discovered Incan walls and ruins on the trail.

On the hidden trail is the ’Inca Carcel’ or ‘the stone prison’, a striking archeological site. The ‘Inca Carcel’ is thought to have been a place of punishment during the Inca times. This Inca ruin is set in the cloud forest of the Pasto Grande area. Discover the many immaculate stone buildings built from slate and created with sophisticated techniques.

Enjoy stunning views of the Salkantay peak, one of the many mountains that were worshipped by the Inca people. To the native people of Peru, mountains are treated as sacred with many ancient rituals revolving around giving thanks for the resources and protection these beautiful mountains provide.

Amongst the mountains, you will arrive at a local Peruvian home for a delicious, traditional lunch. After lunch, test your sense of adventure with a cable car across the Urubamba River. End the adrenaline rush at the Cocalmayo Thermal Baths where you can soothe your sore muscles with a dip in the steaming hot springs.

Enjoy a nice breakfast before taking a private vehicle to the town of Lucmabamba. Again, we will explore a hidden Inca Trail; however, this time you will truly be the first to discover this trail. Our tour company is the only agency to have the privilege of traversing this remote and beautiful part of the jungle. During your hike, you can take in the serene echoes of brimming wildlife, observe vibrant parrots in the trees, and smell the beautiful orchids along the trail.

Your hike concludes at Llactapapa, an important archeological site. These ruins are thought to be a rest stop on the journey to Machu Picchu. Llaqtapata may have been part of a network of ceremonial sites supporting the center that is Machu Picchu. Enjoy the impressive stonework and the beautiful view.

Once you reach the top of Llactapata, your hard work will be greatly rewarded with your first glimpse of the magnificent Machu Picchu. This lookout point is the perfect place for a picnic lunch with a view. After recharging and reveling in the majestic Machu Picchu valley for some time, you will head down to the train station to depart for the charming town of Aguas Calientes.

Spend the night in your cozy accommodation, tucked beneath the grand Machu Picchu. Savor the delicious Andean flavors at dinner before retreating to your comfortable room for a good night’s sleep.

Day 4 is the highlight of your Andean adventure!. An early wake-up call will provide heavenly sunrise views of the natural wonder that is Machu Picchu. Stand amongst the clouds and witness the glorious Machu Picchu as the fiery sun slowly rises behind the mountaintop. Illuminating both the striking and iconic peak and the spectacular stonework passed down by the Inca Empire.

Enjoy an engaging and informative guided tour where you will uncover the rich history of this famous Inca City. Learn about ancient Peruvian traditions and understand the sophisticated building techniques that created this awe-inspiring ancient city.

Today you will have explored one of the greatest Wonders of the World. You will return to Cusco later on in the day with extraordinary memories of your time at Machu Picchu!