8-Day Inca Lands and Tambopata Rainforest Jungle

Upon arrival in Cusco, you'll be warmly greeted and escorted to your hotel, where you'll have a moment to settle in and acclimate to the city's high altitude. Cusco, with its blend of ancient Inca heritage and Spanish colonial architecture, is a city brimming with history and charm.

In the afternoon, your adventure begins with an exclusive stroll through the heart of Cusco. Your first stop is Plaza de San Cristóbal, where you'll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city. From this vantage point, Cusco’s terracotta rooftops and narrow cobblestone streets stretch out beneath the majestic Andes, offering the perfect introduction to this historical gem.

Next, you'll immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of San Pedro Market, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. This bustling market is the soul of Cusco, offering everything from colorful piles of Andean fruits and vegetables to aromatic spices and handmade crafts. Here, you’ll get a true taste of local life as you observe vendors and locals engaging in their daily routines. Don’t forget to try a fresh fruit juice or some Peruvian pastries as you wander through the lively aisles!

The journey continues to one of the city's most revered sites, the Qorikancha Temple, once the richest temple of the Inca Empire, its walls historically adorned with sheets of gold. As you walk through this spiritual site, now part of the Santo Domingo Convent, you’ll sense the deep reverence and power it still holds. The fusion of Inca and Spanish colonial architecture here offers a fascinating glimpse into Cusco’s layered history.

From there, you'll head to the San Blas district, known as the artisans' quarter, where the streets are lined with charming workshops and galleries. Walking down the narrow Hatun Rumiyoc Street, you'll encounter the famed Twelve Angled Stone, a marvel of Inca stonework, perfectly carved and fitted without mortar. Continuing along this historic path, you’ll reach the Archbishop’s Palace, once the residence of Inca Roca, and now a testament to the fusion of two cultures.

Your tour concludes in the heart of Cusco at the Plaza de Armas, where you’ll visit Cusco Cathedral, a colonial masterpiece housing an incredible collection of art, including Cusco School paintings, silverwork, and religious relics. As you explore its impressive chapels and altars, take a moment to appreciate the blending of indigenous and Catholic symbolism throughout the cathedral, which reflects Cusco’s complex cultural history.

By the end of the day, you'll have experienced the rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural wonders that make Cusco an unforgettable destination.

Your day begins with an early escape from the bustling crowds of Cusco, as you ascend to the awe-inspiring fortress of Sacsayhuaman. This immense citadel, built with massive stones that fit together with incredible precision, is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Inca Empire. Take a moment to marvel at the panoramic views of the city below, while the surrounding landscape blends seamlessly with the ancient stonework, creating a serene communion between nature and history. The air here feels fresher, as if inviting you to pause and absorb the magnitude of this sacred site.

From Sacsayhuaman, your journey continues to Q’enqo, a lesser-known but equally fascinating Inca sanctuary. Hidden within a rocky outcrop, you’ll discover a mysterious altar, thought to have been used for ritual sacrifices. Its shadowy, cave-like setting adds a layer of intrigue, offering a glimpse into the spiritual world of the Incas. As you explore the intricate carvings and natural rock formations, it’s easy to imagine the ancient ceremonies that once took place in this sacred space.

Next, you’ll stop at the Puca Pucará lookout, a former military post with a commanding view of the surrounding valleys and distant mountain ranges. This vantage point is ideal for reflecting on the strategic importance of these sites and soaking in the Andean atmosphere, where the landscape seems to stretch on forever. Finally, you’ll arrive at Tambomachay, a monument that showcases the Incas' mastery of water engineering. Known as the "Bath of the Inca," its cascading aqueducts and fountains are not just functional but are also thought to have had spiritual significance. This site, with its tranquil water features, invites you to contemplate the Andean philosophy of harmony between humans and nature.

Afternoon at Leisure in Cusco:

The afternoon is yours to spend at your own pace. Whether you decide to delve deeper into the city’s rich heritage or simply enjoy the vibrant streets, Cusco never disappoints. You might wander through the bustling markets, browse local artisan shops, or find a quiet café to relax and watch the world go by. With the passport of admissions included in your trip, you have the freedom to visit additional sites around the city, each offering a unique glimpse into Cusco's storied past.

As the day winds down, Cusco’s charm continues to unfold, from its picturesque alleyways to its inviting plazas. Whether you're savoring the local cuisine or just soaking up the atmosphere, this ancient city will leave you enchanted. Return to your accommodation to rest and reflect on the wonders you’ve experienced, ready for more adventures ahead.

Your day begins with an early departure into the heart of the Sacred Valley, where ancient traditions still thrive amidst stunning landscapes. Our first stop is the charming village of Chinchero, widely regarded as the most traditional and colorful village in the valley. Nestled in the Andean highlands, this village is renowned for its vibrant community of master weavers. You'll have the chance to step into a local textiles center, where the women continue to preserve ancient Inca techniques for dyeing and spinning alpaca wool. Watch in awe as natural pigments from native plants and minerals are skillfully transformed into a palette of colors, while the rhythmic spinning of the wool transports you to a world where craftsmanship and culture intertwine.

After this immersion into Andean artistry, we'll visit Chinchero's Inca plaza, a space that echoes with centuries of history. The impressive ruins here blend harmoniously with the village's colonial church, adorned with exquisite frescoes. Take in the contrast of Spanish and Inca architectural styles while surrounded by panoramic views of snow-capped mountains.

Our journey continues as we head toward the mesmerizing archaeological site of Moray. Here, you’ll marvel at the series of concentric terraces that form natural amphitheaters. These unique structures are believed to have been an agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with recreating different microclimates to cultivate a variety of crops. As you stand at the edge of these terraces, you can almost imagine the agricultural wisdom that once thrived here—an astounding testament to the Incas' deep connection with the land.

A break for lunch follows, where you'll indulge in local Andean flavors, perhaps savoring dishes made with quinoa, corn, and fresh trout from the region's rivers, while gazing at the valley's serene beauty.

In the afternoon, we reach the last living Inca village, Ollantaytambo, where history is woven into the very streets. As you wander through the ancient pathways, you’ll step back in time, exploring the remnants of Inca civilization still vibrant in the community. The grandeur of the Temple of the Ten Windows awaits, along with the Bath of the Princess, where ancient stones seem to hum with stories of past royalty. The crowning jewel of the day is the Sun Temple, its colossal stone walls meticulously carved and aligned with astronomical precision.

For the perfect close to this magical day, we'll ascend the terraces of Ollantaytambo, offering you postcard-worthy views of the valley below. The setting sun will cast a golden glow over the stone structures, creating a picture-perfect memory that captures the essence of the Sacred Valley.

Afterward, you'll settle into your accommodations in the area, where the crisp Andean air and quietude of the mountains will prepare you for a restful evening amidst the valley’s timeless beauty.

По желанию возможно проведение различных треккингов, экскурсий на лошадях, горных велосипедах или квадроциклах.

Your day begins at the heart of the Sacred Valley, the station in Urubamba. Here, you’ll embark on a truly remarkable journey aboard the legendary Hiram Bingham luxury train, one of the most exclusive travel experiences in the world. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the elegance of its vintage, 1920s-inspired carriages. Plush interiors, gleaming wood panels, and large windows frame the surrounding Andean landscape. A sense of anticipation builds as you settle into the first-class atmosphere, where every detail has been carefully curated to evoke a sense of timeless travel.

The dining car is a highlight, designed to blend the sophistication of yesteryear with modern comfort. As the train chugs along, you’ll be served a series of finely crafted dishes—each plate a reflection of Peru’s rich culinary heritage. Imagine tasting a delicate ceviche of river trout or a velvety quinoa risotto, all while the scenic beauty outside seems to flow past like a vivid dream.

The route follows the winding course of the Urubamba River, cutting deeper into the towering canyon. As the train glides forward, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic: steep cliffs covered in lush, verdant foliage, narrow valleys carved by ancient forces, and glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks. The sheer scale of nature surrounding you is awe-inspiring, yet the ride remains serene and intimate, a perfect contrast to the raw power of the landscape.

Finally, you’ll reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway village to Machu Picchu. From here, minibuses will take you on a winding ascent to the Sacred Citadel itself, climbing higher into the mist-shrouded mountains. As you approach, the ancient stones of Machu Picchu begin to appear, like something from a dream. Upon arrival, you’ll immediately feel the pulse of history and the deep spiritual energy that envelops this revered Inca site.

With an expert guide at your side, you’ll explore the intricacies of the Citadel. Walk along its carefully constructed terraces, touch the cool, time-worn stones, and marvel at the sophisticated engineering of this once-great city. You’ll stand before the Intihuatana, the mystical solar clock, still imbued with the reverence of centuries past. From the Temple of the Sun to the Room of the Three Windows, each space tells the story of an ancient civilization in perfect harmony with the natural world.

After this profound experience, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved break at the Sanctuary Lodge, sipping tea while overlooking the breathtaking landscape, letting the day's adventures sink in. But the journey doesn’t end here. As you descend back to Aguas Calientes, the Hiram Bingham train awaits to whisk you back to Cusco in style. Onboard, you’ll be treated to live entertainment and a sophisticated gourmet dinner, the perfect way to unwind after a day spent at one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

Arriving in Cusco, your day ends with a smooth transfer to your hotel, where the warmth of local hospitality and the memories of Machu Picchu will lull you into a peaceful night’s rest. Lodging in Cusco ensures your comfort after an extraordinary day.

Upon arrival at Puerto Maldonado, you will be warmly welcomed by a naturalist guide, who will assist with your transfer to the boarding dock. From there, embark on a motorboat journey along the Tambopata River, making your way to a lodge deep within the reserve. Along the river, witness the transition from deforested, colonized areas to the pristine, untouched forest.

At the lodge, you'll be greeted by the staff and treated to a refreshing glass of local fruit juice. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk along the trails surrounding the lodge, where you’ll have the chance to observe various species of flora and fauna, including lion monkeys, brown capuchin monkeys (also known as "Martín" monkeys), butterflies, and a wide variety of birds.

After dinner, join a night walk, using flashlights to discover nocturnal creatures. You might spot animals and insects by the glow of their eyes in the darkness.

Overnight at the lodge.

Rise early for a guided birdwatching tour around the lodge, where you can observe the rich birdlife of the region. Afterward, enjoy breakfast before boarding a motorboat that will take you to a nearby trailhead. From there, embark on a hike through the rainforest, leading to a serene lake where you'll paddle in canoes to explore its abundant aquatic life.

On the lake, you'll have the chance to spot families of giant river otters, or "river wolves," which are frequently seen in these waters. The lake is also home to a variety of bird species, including tabby herons, white herons, tuqui, shanshos, and many more.

After lunch, continue your exploration of the trails surrounding the lodge, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the jungle. As night falls, you and your guide will venture out in a motorized canoe for an exciting search for caimans and other nocturnal animals.

Dinner and lodging at the lodge.

At the designated time, transfer to Juliaca Airport for the flight to Lima.

The assistance will be provided for the connection to the international flight.