Peruvian Adventure Tour 2026

Day 1: Arrival in Lima, Pisac, Pisac Market

• Day 1 (Saturday, July 11): Arrival in Lima, Pisac, Pisac Market
• Morning– Flight from Lima to Cusco
  • Arrive to Cusco and transported to Pisac in the Sacred Valley
  • Check into the hotel.
• 2:00 PM– Pisac Market Visit
  • Shop for handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, and souvenirs at the famous market.
  • Enjoy dinner in the quaint Pisac square.
• 5:00 PM – Pisac Village
  • Enjoy dinner in the quaint Pisac square or back at the hotel.
  • Today is an important day to rest and acclimate to higher altitudes.
  • Plan ahead and schedule a massage at the hotel (optional).
  • Evening group meditation (optional).
• Overnight stay in Pisac

Day 2: Pisac, Maras Salt Mines, & Moray

9:00 AM – Connection Activity

• Connect up with Karolina & Natalie after breakfast
• 10:00 AM – Depart Hotel in Pisac
  • Scenic drive to Pisac Ruins
• 10:30 AM – Pisac Ruins Tour
  • Explore Pisac’s Inca ruins, including agricultural terraces and religious temples.
  • Visit Intihuatana, a ceremonial sundial used by the Incas.

Midday: Lunch & Maras Salt Mines

• 12:30 PM – Lunch in Urubamba
  • Enjoy a traditional Andean buffet lunch with local specialties like quinoa soup, grilled trout, and alpaca steak.
• 2:00 PM – Maras Salt Mines
  • Visit the stunning Salineras de Maras, where over 3,000 salt ponds cascade down the mountainside.
  • Learn about the Inca-era salt extraction process, still used by local families today.

Afternoon: Moray Agricultural Terraces

• 3:30 PM – Explore Moray’s Inca Circles
  • Visit the breathtaking circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an ancient agricultural laboratory.
  • Learn about Inca farming techniques and microclimates.
• 7:00 PM –Group Regression -Natalie & Karolina
• Overnight stay in Pisac

Day 3 (Monday, July 13): Chinchero & Ollantaytambo

Morning: Breakfast & Drive to Chinchero

• 8:30 AM-Morning Circle & Load up Transport
• 9:00 AM-Drive to Chinchero (about 1 hour).
• 10:00 AM – Chinchero Inca Ruins & Church
  • Visit Chinchero’s Inca ruins and colonial church, featuring beautiful frescoes.
  • Explore the stone terraces and ceremonial sites.

Midday: 

• 12:00 PM – Lunch in Chinchero
  • Enjoy home-cooked Andean dishes at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Chinchero Textile Demonstration

• 1:30 PM – Andean Weaving Workshop
  • Learn about traditional weaving techniques and natural dyeing from local artisans.
  • Watch as alpaca and sheep wool are transformed into vibrant textiles.
• 2:30 PM – Drive to Ollantaytambo
  • Transportation with luggage to Ollantaytambo (about 1 hour)
• 4:00 PM – Guided Tour of Ollantaytambo Ruins
  • Climb to the Temple of the Sun, featuring massive Inca stonework.
  • Explore the terraces, storage structures, and ceremonial fountains.

Evening: Ollantaytambo

• 6:00 PM – Evening Circle/Meditation
• Explore the Plaza de Armas: This central square is a lovely spot to relax in the evening, with cafes and restaurants around. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal, sip a drink, and people-watch.
• Visit the Ollantaytambo Ruins at Sunset: The ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo are less crowded in the late afternoon and evening, offering a peaceful atmosphere. If you're not planning to hike up earlier in the day, it’s worth visiting the site before it gets dark, as the sunset views from the top are spectacular.
• Stroll Through the Town’s Inca Streets: Ollantaytambo is known for its well-preserved Inca architecture. Wander through the narrow streets and alleys to admire the stone buildings and soak in the evening ambiance.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine at one of the many local restaurants in town. Many places offer fresh Andean ingredients, such as quinoa, alpaca, and local potatoes, alongside regional dishes.
• Relax in a Cafe: Many cozy cafes and small eateries in Ollantaytambo offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for an evening drink or dessert. Try a traditional Peruvian hot drink like "mate de coca.

Day 4 (Tuesday, July 14): Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (via Train)

• Morning: Departure from Ollantaytambo
  • 7:00 AM: Depart from Ollantaytambo station. Board the train to Aguas Calientes. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley, including views of the Vilcanota River.
  • LUGGAGE: Depending on the train we use, you will only be allowed 8 pounds (PeruRail) or 11 pounds (IncaRail).  See below for a packing list. Our hotel will hold our luggage for us until we return. Optional: Pay for a porter service to take your luggage to our hotel. 
  • Optional: Enjoy a light breakfast on the train, depending on the class of service.
• Late Morning: Arrival at Aguas Calientes
  • 9:00 AM: Arrive in Aguas Calientes. Take a short walk to your hotel or accommodation. Check-in and drop off your luggage.
  • 10:00 AM: Freshen up and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu.
• Midday: Visit Machu Picchu
  • 10:30 AM: Board a bus to Machu Picchu (about 25 minutes). Your guide will take you on a guided tour of the ruins, exploring the history, significance, and stunning architecture of the site.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy free time to explore the site further or take photos.
  • 1:30 PM: Lunch in Aguas Calientes (optional): After your tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a local restaurant, with options offering Peruvian cuisine and views of the surrounding mountains.
• Afternoon: Free Time
  • 3:00 PM: Explore Aguas Calientes, walk around the town, or visit the Thermal Baths (a relaxing way to unwind after the day’s adventures).
  • 4:00 PM: Optionally visit the Machu Picchu Museum in Aguas Calientes to learn more about the history and archaeology of the area.
• Evening: Dinner and Relax
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Peruvian food, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, or alpaca dishes.
  • 7:30 PM: Head back to your hotel for rest.

Day 5: (Wednesday, July 15) Optional Activities in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu

• Option 1: Return to Machu Picchu on Your Own
  • 5:00 AM: Wake up early to take the bus back to Machu Picchu for sunrise. This is a quieter, more serene time to explore the site, and the sunrise over the mountains can be breathtaking.
  • 7:00 AM: Spend a few hours exploring on your own or visit specific parts of the site, such as the Inca Bridge or the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for panoramic views of the area.
• Option 2: Hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
  • 6:00 AM: For those seeking an adventurous activity, consider hiking to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Both hikes offer stunning aerial views of the ruins and surrounding landscape.
  • 9:00 AM: Complete the hike and return to the main complex for more exploration.
• Midday: Visit the Mandor Gardens
  • 11:00 AM: Alternatively, for a quieter experience, take a short walk to the Mandor Gardens (about 30 minutes from Aguas Calientes). Enjoy a peaceful setting with lush vegetation, native plants, and birds.
• 1:00 PM: Lunch in Aguas Calientes.
• Afternoon: Train to Cusco
  • 3:00 PM: Depart from Aguas Calientes via train back to Cusco.The train ride from Aguas Calientes to Cusco typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the train service and the specific route. Most trains follow the route through the Sacred Valley, offering scenic views along the way. Keep in mind that this trip usually requires a transfer at Ollantaytambo to switch trains, as Aguas Calientes is not directly connected to Cusco by road.
  • 7:00 PM: Arrive to hotel in Cusco
  • Evening on your own. Please be aware of altitude and affects this can have on your body.Morning: Departure from Ollantaytambo
  • 7:00 AM: Depart from Ollantaytambo station. Board the train to Aguas Calientes. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, passing through beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley, including views of the Vilcanota River.
  • LUGGAGE: Depending on the train we use, you will only be allowed 8 pounds (PeruRail) or 11 pounds (IncaRail).  See below for a packing list. Our hotel will hold our luggage for us until we return. Optional: Pay for a porter service to take your luggage to our hotel. 
  • Optional: Enjoy a light breakfast on the train, depending on the class of service.
• Late Morning: Arrival at Aguas Calientes
  • 9:00 AM: Arrive in Aguas Calientes. Take a short walk to your hotel or accommodation. Check-in and drop off your luggage.
  • 10:00 AM: Freshen up and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu.
• Midday: Visit Machu Picchu
  • 10:30 AM: Board a bus to Machu Picchu (about 25 minutes). Your guide will take you on a guided tour of the ruins, exploring the history, significance, and stunning architecture of the site.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy free time to explore the site further or take photos.
  • 1:30 PM: Lunch in Aguas Calientes (optional): After your tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a local restaurant, with options offering Peruvian cuisine and views of the surrounding mountains.
• Afternoon: Free Time
  • 3:00 PM: Explore Aguas Calientes, walk around the town, or visit the Thermal Baths (a relaxing way to unwind after the day’s adventures).
  • 4:00 PM: Optionally visit the Machu Picchu Museum in Aguas Calientes to learn more about the history and archaeology of the area.
• Evening: Dinner and Relax
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Peruvian food, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, or alpaca dishes.
  • 7:30 PM: Head back to your hotel for rest.

Day 6: (Thursday, July 16) Full Day Tour in Cusco

• 8:00 AM – Breakfast in Cusco
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafes or restaurants in Cusco. Many places offer traditional Peruvian breakfast options such as tamales, pancakes, or a hearty Peruvian-style omelette with quinoa.
• 9:00 AM – Sacsayhuamán Ruins
  • Begin your day with a visit to the Sacsayhuamán archaeological site located just outside Cusco. This massive Inca complex is known for its impressive stonework, with stones weighing several tons, and offers fantastic views of the city. Your guide will provide insight into its historical and cultural significance. Spend about 1 hour exploring the site.

               Midday: Visit Qorikancha and San Pedro Market

• 10:30 AM – Qorikancha and the Santo Domingo Convent
  • Head to the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), one of the most important religious sites in the Inca Empire. The temple, dedicated to the Sun God, was covered in gold and was the most sacred site in the Incan world. The remnants of the Inca walls are now integrated into the Santo Domingo Convent.
  • Duration: 1 hour.
• 11:45 AM – San Pedro Market
  • Visit San Pedro Market, one of the most vibrant and authentic markets in Cusco. Wander through the aisles filled with fresh produce, spices, traditional Andean textiles, crafts, and snacks. This is also a great place to purchase handmade souvenirs or try local treats like empanadas or choclo con queso (corn with cheese).
  • Duration: 45 minutes.

 Lunch: Local Restaurant

• 1:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
  • Head to one of Cusco’s renowned restaurants such as Cicciolina or Chicha for a traditional Peruvian lunch. Opt for local specialties like cuy (guinea pig), lomo saltado, or aji de gallina. Many restaurants also offer a good selection of Andean-inspired dishes.

         Afternoon: Ollanyaytambo and the Sacred Valley or Cusco

• 2:30 PM – Ollantaytambo and Sacred Valley (Optional Half-Day Excursion)
  • If you're interested in a bit more exploration outside the city, take a half-day trip to Ollantaytambo, which is about 1.5 hours away. You’ll visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, an important Inca site and fortress. The town itself, with its charming narrow streets, is known for its original Inca street layout. It's a great place to explore, shop for souvenirs, and take photos.
• Alternative Option in Cusco:
  • If you prefer to stay in Cusco, head to the Cusco Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas. Spend time exploring the beautiful architecture and the impressive collection of colonial-era art. The Museum of Religious Art inside offers more historical context about the region.

Late Afternoon: San Blas

• 4:00 PM – Visit the San Blas Neighborhood
  • Explore the San Blas neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere. This district has narrow, cobbled streets and is home to many artists’ workshops, quaint cafes, and vibrant galleries. Stop by Plaza San Blas, a lovely square with a colonial-style church.
  • Duration: 1 hour.
• 5:30 PM – Relax and Refresh
  • Take some time to relax at a local café or at your hotel. Enjoy a coffee or a warm mate de coca (coca tea) to unwind.
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        Evening: Peruvian Culinary show and Plaza de Armas

• 7:00 PM – Dinner and Cultural Experience
  • For a special dining experience, book a table at a restaurant offering a Peruvian culinary show, where you can enjoy a traditional dance and music performance along with your meal. Some popular places include Tunupa or Kusikay.
  • You can also try a pisco sour (the national cocktail of Peru) before dinner to kick off your evening.
• 9:00 PM – Stroll Around the Plaza de Armas
  • End your day with a peaceful evening stroll through the Plaza de Armas, where you can take in the beautifully lit historic buildings and soak in the vibrant energy of Cusco at night.

Additional Tips for Day 6:

• Altitude Considerations: Cusco is located at a high altitude, so take it easy, stay hydrated, and give yourself time to adjust if needed.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many of the attractions involve walking on cobblestone streets or climbing stairs, so it’s best to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.

Day 7: (Friday, July 17) Cusco to Lima

Included in Trip

• Hotel Stays
• Breakfast on mornings of hotel stays
• Transportation to Hotels, Ruins, Outings
• Entrances to Ruins and Attractions

• Tour Guides
• Domestic Flights
• Vistadome or 360 Train to Aguas Calientes
• Expedition or Voyager Train to Cusco
• Some group meals (TBD)
• Guided Meditations/Group Circles/Guidance on Spiritual Adventure
• Group QHHT Session
• Advise on Flights to Lima

Not Included

• International Airfare
• Porter Luggage Service from Ollantaytambo to Agua Calientes and back (This is for extra luggage past the 8 lbs/11 lbs limit on train) Price TBD (appx $10-$25/luggage)
• Additional trips not on itinerary
• Emergency medical services
• Travel insurance

OR

Ayawaska Retreat

Choose from 1 day, 3 days, 1 week stays in the Sacred Valley.

Since you have a 5–8 kg (11–17.6 lb) luggage limit on the train, it’s best to pack light and bring only essentials.

Essentials to Pack in a Small Backpack

✅ Clothing:

• 2 lightweight shirts (moisture-wicking is best)
• 1 long-sleeve shirt (for layering in the evenings)
• 1 light jacket or fleece (it can get chilly at night)
• 1 pair of hiking pants or leggings (comfortable for Machu Picchu)
• 1 pair of shorts (for warmer afternoons)
• 2 pairs of socks (preferably moisture-wicking)
• 2 sets of underwear
• Sleepwear

✅ Footwear:

• Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers (break them in before the trip)
• Flip-flops or sandals (for the hotel or hot springs)

✅ Toiletries (Travel-Sized Only):

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Face wipes & deodorant
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)
• Bug spray (very important for Machu Picchu)
• Shampoo & soap (some hotels provide them)
• Razor (if needed)

✅ Machu Picchu Day Pack:

• Small daypack (under 20L, since large bags are not allowed at Machu Picchu)
• Passport (required to enter Machu Picchu)
• Train & bus tickets
• Phone & charger/power bank
• Camera (or just use your phone)
• Sunglasses & hat
• Light rain jacket or poncho (weather can change fast)
• Refillable water bottle (plastic bottles are not allowed at Machu Picchu)
• Snacks (nuts, protein bars, fruit)

✅ Extras:

• Swimsuit (for the Aguas Calientes hot springs)
• Lightweight towel (optional for hot springs)
• Small amount of cash (some places don’t take credit cards)

Please be prepared for higher elevations and bring any medications you might need to help you with elevation sickness. Most hotels have mate de coca (coca leaf tea) which helps some with elevation sickness. It is important to rest and stay hydrated as much as possible on your first day in higher elevations. We are saving Cusco for last days so that your body can acclimate. 

Pisac: 2,972 meters (9,751 feet)

Cusco: 3,399 meters (11,152 feet)

Ollantaytambo: 2,792 meters (9,160 feet)

Aguas Calientes: 2,040 meters (6,692 feet)

Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters (7,972 feet)

Price TBD (apx $2000 to $3000)

Recommended International Flight:

LATAM Airlines  LAX to LIM on July 10, 2025 at 9:30 pm.  Arriving to Lima morning of July 11