![Photo](https://img.atlasobscura.com/CWM-SEXPRFcWr8Dlo-zH78R5SiQNZMLatfejvgPaStQ/rs:fill:370:482:1/g:ce/q:81/sm:1/scp:1/ar:1/aHR0cHM6Ly9hdGxh/cy1kZXYuczMuYW1h/em9uYXdzLmNvbS91/cGxvYWRzL2V2ZW50/X2ltYWdlcy85NjUz/YTJiNy1hZWEyLTQ2/NmUtOGRhMC1iZmI5/ZDkwOWJkZWY0ODEz/ZWNlMDBjNmU1NzE4/Njhfam9yZ2UtZ2Fy/ZG5lci1wWEVxOTdJ/R201US11bnNwbGFz/aC5qcGc.jpg)
![Photo](https://img.atlasobscura.com/CWM-SEXPRFcWr8Dlo-zH78R5SiQNZMLatfejvgPaStQ/rs:fill:370:482:1/g:ce/q:81/sm:1/scp:1/ar:1/aHR0cHM6Ly9hdGxh/cy1kZXYuczMuYW1h/em9uYXdzLmNvbS91/cGxvYWRzL2V2ZW50/X2ltYWdlcy85NjUz/YTJiNy1hZWEyLTQ2/NmUtOGRhMC1iZmI5/ZDkwOWJkZWY0ODEz/ZWNlMDBjNmU1NzE4/Njhfam9yZ2UtZ2Fy/ZG5lci1wWEVxOTdJ/R201US11bnNwbGFz/aC5qcGc.jpg)
South America
10 days
9 nights
14 people
Moderate
Art & Culture
Trace the living legacy of the Incan Empire as you journey to the spectacular ruins at Machu Picchu and visit one of the last Incan Rope Bridges. In Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, delve into the enduring Inca influences on modern Peruvian culture. You’ll soar above the mysterious Nazca Lines etched in the desert, feel the morning mist as you walk the Inca Trail, and get to know local artisans during a weaving workshop. Along the way, you'll taste the bright flavors of Peru’s distinctive cuisine paired with local wines and pisco.
Welcome to Lima! Your exploration of the ‘City of Kings’ begins with a jaunt through the snake-oil spectacle of the Mercado de Brujas, a real-life ‘witches market.’ You’ll get familiarized with the city on a guided tour of Central Lima, wandering vibrant streets filled with ornate colonial mansions, palaces and churches towards Plaza Mayor, the historic center of the city. Among the landmarks you’ll see is the increasingly unwelcomed statue of the city’s founder: Francisco Pizzaro. Enjoy a memorable welcome dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, which offers fabulous views of mystical pre-Incan ruins.
Welcome to Lima! Your exploration of the ‘City of Kings’ begins with a jaunt through the snake-oil spectacle of the Mercado de Brujas, a real-life ‘witches market.’ You’ll get familiarized with the city on a guided tour of Central Lima, wandering vibrant streets filled with ornate colonial mansions, palaces and churches towards Plaza Mayor, the historic center of the city. Among the landmarks you’ll see is the increasingly unwelcomed statue of the city’s founder: Francisco Pizzaro. Enjoy a memorable welcome dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, which offers fabulous views of mystical pre-Incan ruins.
Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
Brunch, Welcome Dinner
Since most international flights arrive into Lima very late in the evening/early morning, Atlas Obscura has included and pre-booked the night before your trip at your Lima hotel. Please take this into consideration when making your flight arrangements.
Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
Brunch, Welcome Dinner
After some breakfast, set south on a drive to Paracas. Today's first adventure is by boat to the Islas de Ballestas, a biodiverse set of islands known as the Peruvian Galapagos. Here you might catch a glimpse of Peruvian pelicans, Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, Peruvian boobies, and turkey vultures, amongst other impressive creatures. Next, you’ll examine the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious prehistoric geoglyph etched into petrified sand, then after a spot of lunch, take off over the Nazca Lines to view these vast, mysterious, ancient works of land art. No one knows where these sprawling glyphs came from or how on earth people were able to design them millennia before air travel existed! Enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
After some breakfast, set south on a drive to Paracas. Today's first adventure is by boat to the Islas de Ballestas, a biodiverse set of islands known as the Peruvian Galapagos. Here you might catch a glimpse of Peruvian pelicans, Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, Peruvian boobies, and turkey vultures, amongst other impressive creatures. Next, you’ll examine the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious prehistoric geoglyph etched into petrified sand, then after a spot of lunch, take off over the Nazca Lines to view these vast, mysterious, ancient works of land art. No one knows where these sprawling glyphs came from or how on earth people were able to design them millennia before air travel existed! Enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
Aranwa Paracas Resort & Spa Hotel, or similar, Paracas
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Aranwa Paracas Resort & Spa Hotel, or similar, Paracas
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The rolling sand dunes around the Huacachina Oasis inspire mirages, but the lake at the center — one of the few true oases in the Americas — is real. Rip across the desert in a dune buggy before refreshing yourself with local wine and local Pisco, and a tour of one of South America’s oldest wineries. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant, before returning to Lima, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner in a restaurant with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
The rolling sand dunes around the Huacachina Oasis inspire mirages, but the lake at the center — one of the few true oases in the Americas — is real. Rip across the desert in a dune buggy before refreshing yourself with local wine and local Pisco, and a tour of one of South America’s oldest wineries. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant, before returning to Lima, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner in a restaurant with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a quick flight from Lima to Cusco, journey into the Sacred Valley, a verdant region rich with archeological sites and Incan village markets. Get an insider’s perspective on a town known for its fabric dyeing and textile weaving; a private weaving workshop will reveal techniques rarely seen outside the Valley. After a magical morning, you’ll head straight for El Mirador, a stunning vantage point for high-altitude views of the dramatic landscapes below. After lunch, check out the town of Pisac and wander through the local market, known for its multi-coloured textiles, local foods, and indigenous clothing - a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and take some great photos. Head back to your hotel for dinner.
After a quick flight from Lima to Cusco, journey into the Sacred Valley, a verdant region rich with archeological sites and Incan village markets. Get an insider’s perspective on a town known for its fabric dyeing and textile weaving; a private weaving workshop will reveal techniques rarely seen outside the Valley. After a magical morning, you’ll head straight for El Mirador, a stunning vantage point for high-altitude views of the dramatic landscapes below. After lunch, check out the town of Pisac and wander through the local market, known for its multi-coloured textiles, local foods, and indigenous clothing - a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and take some great photos. Head back to your hotel for dinner.
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the morning by learning firsthand about some of the greatest discoveries of the ancient Incas. You’ll marvel at the rosy earth tones of the Salt Pans of Maras, colorful, open salt mines that have been in use since the Incan Empire. Head to the beautiful lagoon of Piuray, for an Andean picnic lunch, on the shores of the lagoon. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo and visit the ancient, experimental, terraced farm of Moray. Then, find out where the Sacred Valley gets its name when you join local shamans for a spiritual ceremony to make an offering to Pachamama, Mother Earth.
Start the morning by learning firsthand about some of the greatest discoveries of the ancient Incas. You’ll marvel at the rosy earth tones of the Salt Pans of Maras, colorful, open salt mines that have been in use since the Incan Empire. Head to the beautiful lagoon of Piuray, for an Andean picnic lunch, on the shores of the lagoon. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo and visit the ancient, experimental, terraced farm of Moray. Then, find out where the Sacred Valley gets its name when you join local shamans for a spiritual ceremony to make an offering to Pachamama, Mother Earth.
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
As dawn rises over the Andes, take a panoramic train ride to one of the world’s most incredible hikes: the famed Inca Trail. Along the path, you’ll pass various archeological wonders and breathtaking views, such as the Urubamba River valley vista and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. The highlight is Winay Wayna, a set of stunning 15th century ruins named for the orchids that dot the landscape. Stopping for picnic lunch. Continuing on, stand in awe at your first glimpses of Machu Picchu as you descend, arriving at the “old mountain” just before sunset after most visitors have already departed. Take your time enjoying the complex in peace and quiet.
As dawn rises over the Andes, take a panoramic train ride to one of the world’s most incredible hikes: the famed Inca Trail. Along the path, you’ll pass various archeological wonders and breathtaking views, such as the Urubamba River valley vista and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. The highlight is Winay Wayna, a set of stunning 15th century ruins named for the orchids that dot the landscape. Stopping for picnic lunch. Continuing on, stand in awe at your first glimpses of Machu Picchu as you descend, arriving at the “old mountain” just before sunset after most visitors have already departed. Take your time enjoying the complex in peace and quiet.
El Mapi by Inkaterra, or similar, Aguas Calientes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
El Mapi by Inkaterra, or similar, Aguas Calientes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will fully explore a true wonder of the world with a knowledgeable host who will unlock the secrets of this archeological paradise. Machu Picchu seems impossible. How was it built in 15th century Peru, especially at a staggering 7,000 feet of elevation? With more than 150 buildings ranging from temples to bathhouses and sanctuaries, and over 100 hand-crafted staircases, it truly has to be seen to be believed. After hours of exploration, you’ll glide back to Cusco aboard the Vistadome train, taking in panoramic views of the Andes. Reflect on the incredible day you’ve just had with your co-travelers during dinner at a sustainable restaurant that supports local producers.
Today you will fully explore a true wonder of the world with a knowledgeable host who will unlock the secrets of this archeological paradise. Machu Picchu seems impossible. How was it built in 15th century Peru, especially at a staggering 7,000 feet of elevation? With more than 150 buildings ranging from temples to bathhouses and sanctuaries, and over 100 hand-crafted staircases, it truly has to be seen to be believed. After hours of exploration, you’ll glide back to Cusco aboard the Vistadome train, taking in panoramic views of the Andes. Reflect on the incredible day you’ve just had with your co-travelers during dinner at a sustainable restaurant that supports local producers.
Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Not all Incan legacies endure as well as Machu Picchu’s stone ruins. Handmade rope bridges suspended across rivers and chasms were once a vital part of a vast network of pathways, the Incan superhighway Qhapaq Nan. The village of Q’eswachaka keeps this tradition alive. During your visit, admire the surprising strength of one of the last Incan rope bridges. Forged from grass and straw, the community here crafts the entire bridge by hand. Next, you’ll visit four picturesque lagoons called Pampamarca, Oscoqocha, Acopía and Pomacanchi, and stop to enjoy an al fresco lunch amongst remarkable flora and regional fauna. Later, the evening is yours to explore Cusco, the cultural heart of Peru.
Not all Incan legacies endure as well as Machu Picchu’s stone ruins. Handmade rope bridges suspended across rivers and chasms were once a vital part of a vast network of pathways, the Incan superhighway Qhapaq Nan. The village of Q’eswachaka keeps this tradition alive. During your visit, admire the surprising strength of one of the last Incan rope bridges. Forged from grass and straw, the community here crafts the entire bridge by hand. Next, you’ll visit four picturesque lagoons called Pampamarca, Oscoqocha, Acopía and Pomacanchi, and stop to enjoy an al fresco lunch amongst remarkable flora and regional fauna. Later, the evening is yours to explore Cusco, the cultural heart of Peru.
Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day enjoying Cusco’s vibrant culture. Stops at the Museo de la Coca and the Cusco Cathedral’s dazzling golden altar present two different sides of this historic city. You’ll also see the façade of the Qoricancha temple, considered the most sacred Inca building in Cusco. A mouth-watering lunch in one of the city’s town squares awaits. Just outside of town are a few of the last sites you can’t leave Peru without seeing: the humbling 200-ton monoliths of Sacsayhuaman, the geometrical genius of The Twelve-Angled Stone, and the bathhouse ruins of Tambomachay. End your day with a delicious farewell dinner in the grounds of the Pre-Columbian Art Museum.
Spend the day enjoying Cusco’s vibrant culture. Stops at the Museo de la Coca and the Cusco Cathedral’s dazzling golden altar present two different sides of this historic city. You’ll also see the façade of the Qoricancha temple, considered the most sacred Inca building in Cusco. A mouth-watering lunch in one of the city’s town squares awaits. Just outside of town are a few of the last sites you can’t leave Peru without seeing: the humbling 200-ton monoliths of Sacsayhuaman, the geometrical genius of The Twelve-Angled Stone, and the bathhouse ruins of Tambomachay. End your day with a delicious farewell dinner in the grounds of the Pre-Columbian Art Museum.
Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we say goodbye. You’ll be guided to the airport, or set off to further explore more of Peru on your own.
Breakfast
The listed price of this trip is per person based on double occupancy.
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $780USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $780USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs. Our trip will gradually go up in elevation, starting in the Sacred Valley, which sits at an elevation of approximately 8,000ft (2,440m). We then make our way to Machu Picchu, which sits at an elevation of 7,874ft (2,430 m) and end in Cusco at the highest elevation on the tour at 11,152 feet (3,399 m).
The short Inca trail trek included in the program is approximately 8 miles (13km) and 5-6 hours in duration. This is a moderate to difficult hike due to its exposed, rocky terrain and high altitude. The first leg of the hike will be approximately 3 hours and a steady climb to reach Wiñay Wayna. From here, the trail continues through woodlands and includes a river/stream crossing before it begins its final ascent to the Sun Gate or entrance to Machu Picchu. There will be porters to assist along the way.
Four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs. Our trip will gradually go up in elevation, starting in the Sacred Valley, which sits at an elevation of approximately 8,000ft (2,440m). We then make our way to Machu Picchu, which sits at an elevation of 7,874ft (2,430 m) and end in Cusco at the highest elevation on the tour at 11,152 feet (3,399 m).
The short Inca trail trek included in the program is approximately 8 miles (13km) and 5-6 hours in duration. This is a moderate to difficult hike due to its exposed, rocky terrain and high altitude. The first leg of the hike will be approximately 3 hours and a steady climb to reach Wiñay Wayna. From here, the trail continues through woodlands and includes a river/stream crossing before it begins its final ascent to the Sun Gate or entrance to Machu Picchu. There will be porters to assist along the way.
Your domestic flight from Lima to Cusco has a luggage limit of one piece of checked luggage not exceeding 23kg / 50 pounds.
For your Inca trail hike, you are asked to bring a day bag including a change of clothes and toiletries for your overnight in Aguas Calientes. We will have porters to assist in carrying your belongings along the trek. Your primary luggage will be transferred from the Sacred Valley to Cusco and securely stored at our hotel.
Your domestic flight from Lima to Cusco has a luggage limit of one piece of checked luggage not exceeding 23kg / 50 pounds.
For your Inca trail hike, you are asked to bring a day bag including a change of clothes and toiletries for your overnight in Aguas Calientes. We will have porters to assist in carrying your belongings along the trek. Your primary luggage will be transferred from the Sacred Valley to Cusco and securely stored at our hotel.
You should plan to arrive by 10 a.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 10. Lima International Airport (LIM) connects to a range of flight hubs in Latin American and North America. The best flight connections to Lima are offered by LATAM Airlines and American Airlines. Since most international flights into Lima arrive late in the evening, a courtesy pre-night has been booked for all guests.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
You should plan to arrive by 10 a.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 10. Lima International Airport (LIM) connects to a range of flight hubs in Latin American and North America. The best flight connections to Lima are offered by LATAM Airlines and American Airlines. Since most international flights into Lima arrive late in the evening, a courtesy pre-night has been booked for all guests.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
Send us a
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip for more details.
Have a question for us about Peru: Machu Picchu and the Last Incan Bridges? We're here to help!
Call us at +1 646-961-4857
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Have a question for us about Peru: Machu Picchu and the Last Incan Bridges? We're here to help!
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Sign up for our emails.
Have a question for us? We're here to help!
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.