Journey of Ancestral Energies: 8-Day Peru Adventure through Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu & Titicaca Lake

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco (morning flights are recommended). Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to your hotel to settle in and acclimatize.

In the afternoon, embark on an exclusive city tour, beginning at San Cristóbal Square, where panoramic views of Cusco await. Next, explore the vibrant San Pedro Market, absorbing the rich scents, colors, and flavors of local products. From there, visit the magnificent Qorikancha Temple, once adorned with walls of gold.

Stroll through the charming San Blas artisan district, and walk along Hatun Rumiyoc Street to admire the famous Twelve Angled Stone at the Inca Roca Palace. Conclude the tour at the Plaza de Armas with a visit to Cusco Cathedral, home to priceless colonial art.

Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Today, you will explore Cusco.

Cusco is a city steeped in immense history. It served as the capital of the great Inca Empire for 200 years, but archaeological evidence shows that people have lived in this area for over 3,000 years.

Your tour will begin at the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park.

Sacsayhuamán, located on a hill overlooking the main districts of Cusco, was an integral part of the city during the Inca era. The entire city of Cusco was designed in the shape of a puma, with Sacsayhuamán representing the puma's head. Although the Spanish dismantled many of the structures, using the stones to build their churches, the ruins that remain today are still awe-inspiring. The walls, standing 20 to 30 feet tall, are composed of perfectly fitted stone blocks, each weighing between 128 and 200 tons!

Afterwards, we will continue to the Inca sanctuary of Q’enqo, where you’ll discover its remarkable altar for sacrifices, intriguingly carved into the interior of a natural rock formation. Finally, we will arrive at the Puca Pucará lookout, followed by a visit to Tambomachay, a monument renowned for its outstanding architectural design. Tambomachay is considered one of the key elements in the Andean worldview, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between nature and spirituality.

In the afternoon, embark on an exclusive city tour beginning with a visit to San Cristóbal Square, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Cusco. From this vantage point, the city unfolds beneath you, offering a stunning perspective of its historic and modern districts.

Next, we will head to the lively San Pedro Market, a vibrant hub where the local flavors and culture come to life. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of Cusco, exploring stalls brimming with fresh produce, traditional foods, and unique local products that sustain the city’s residents.

Our journey continues to the majestic Qorikancha Temple, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. As you step inside, you’ll be awed by its grandeur, imagining the walls once covered in gold that reflected the divine light.

From there, we will venture to the San Blas neighborhood, known as the artisans’ quarter. Walking down the historic Hatun Rumiyoc Street, you’ll encounter the Palace of Inca Roca, now the Archbishop’s Palace, and take a moment to admire the world-famous Twelve-Angled Stone, a marvel of Inca stonework.

Finally, we will arrive at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, where we will visit The Cathedral. This grand colonial church is home to an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts, each piece a testament to the city’s rich cultural and spiritual history.

You'll begin your day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas with a visit to the Village of Chinchero, one of the most authentic and colorful places in the region. Known for its traditional weaving, Chinchero is a living testament to the Inca heritage. You'll make a short but enriching stop at a local textile center, where you'll witness skilled women practicing the ancient Inca techniques of dyeing and spinning alpaca wool. This brief visit will offer you a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant cultural traditions that continue to thrive in this picturesque village.

After visiting the Inca plaza and its beautiful colonial church, you'll head to one of the most intriguing sites in the Sacred Valley—Moray. This remarkable Inca site features vast concentric terraces that resemble an ancient amphitheater. But Moray is much more than a visual marvel; it was an advanced agricultural laboratory. The Incas ingeniously used these terraces, each at a different height, to replicate up to 20 distinct microclimates. This allowed them to experiment with growing a variety of crops—grains, vegetables, and even fruits—by adapting them to different conditions. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

After a delightful lunch at a typical local restaurant (buffet-style), you’ll continue your journey to the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo, the last living village of the Incas. This fascinating site was once conquered by the Inca ruler Pachacuti, who transformed the settlement by demolishing the old structures and constructing new homes and a ceremonial center. Positioned strategically on the route to the jungle, Ollantaytambo holds great historical significance. It was from here that Manco Inca Yupanqui, the leader of the Inca resistance, retreated with his treasures and the mummies of his ancestors to the legendary—and still undiscovered—city of Vilcabamba.

During your visit, you’ll explore the Temple of the Ten Windows, the Bath of the Princess, and the magnificent Sun Temple. As you ascend the heights of Ollantaytambo, you’ll capture postcard-perfect photos of the breathtaking landscape, providing the perfect conclusion to this magical day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. 

Ollantaytambo is remarkable for being one of the very few Inca-era towns still inhabited today. Some of the buildings in the modern town date back to the late 15th century, offering a living connection to the past.

In the evening, you'll board a comfortable tourist train at the Ollantaytambo station, which will take you on a scenic 1.5-hour journey to the village of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel.

You'll spend the night in a cozy hotel in the village of Machu Picchu, resting up for the adventure that awaits you tomorrow.

Depending on the season, your journey will start from either Poroy or Ollantaytambo train station. As the train departs, you'll be treated to a scenic ride through the Peruvian highlands, where the landscape shifts from rugged peaks to lush green valleys. The train winds alongside the Urubamba River, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the river’s winding course, each moment building anticipation.

Your destination is Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, our staff will assist you in boarding the bus that will take you up the winding road to the Lost City of the Incas. The journey offers spectacular views of the Urubamba River and its dramatic canyon, perfectly setting the stage for what awaits at Machu Picchu.

As you arrive at the entrance, the Lost City of the Incas reveals itself in all its enigmatic glory. Machu Picchu existed for just over 100 years before it was abandoned around 1532 when Spanish colonizers invaded the Inca Empire. The inhabitants mysteriously disappeared around this time. One theory suggests that the city, heavily reliant on food supplies from the capital, Cusco, was gradually abandoned due to famine when these supplies were disrupted by the Spanish invaders. Another theory posits that 5,000 commoners left to fight the Spaniards, while 3,000 nobles retreated to the legendary Vilcabamba, taking their treasures with them.

Prepare to be captivated by this ancient citadel, where history and mystery hang thick in the air. Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu will astonish you with its terraces, ceremonial shrines, steep steps, and intricate urban areas, all seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape.

During your guided tour, you’ll explore the sacred temples, royal quarters, and agricultural terraces that once sustained this remarkable city. The energy of this sacred place surrounds you as you walk among the ruins that have endured through the centuries.

After taking in the incredible sights and stories, you'll enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, where you can savor local flavors while reflecting on your experience.

With your visit complete, you'll descend back to Aguas Calientes and board the train for a picturesque return journey to Cusco. As you make your way back to your hotel, the memories of this extraordinary day will linger, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the wonders you've witnessed.

Set out on an enchanting journey through the heart of the Andes as you depart for the historic city of Cusco. Your adventure begins with a visit to the Pucara Lithic Museum, a treasure trove of ancient relics from the enigmatic Pucará culture. As you explore the museum, you’ll be captivated by the intricate monoliths, stelas, and animal-shaped sculptures, each piece offering a glimpse into a civilization that thrived centuries ago. Don’t miss the chance to admire the famous Toritos de Pucará, charming multicolored ceramic bulls that symbolize protection, happiness, and fertility—a perfect memento of your visit.

Your journey continues as the tour bus climbs to the highest point of the day, La Raya Pass, perched at an impressive 4,335 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll find yourself standing at the geographical divide between the waters of Lake Titicaca and the Vilcanota River, which eventually feeds into the mighty Amazon. Take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air and marvel at the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast Andean plains—a true testament to the rugged beauty of Peru's highlands.

Pause for a well-deserved lunch, savoring local flavors while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Refreshed, you’ll journey onwards to the ancient town of Raqchi, home to the magnificent Temple of Wiracocha. As you wander among the remnants of this once-majestic structure, the imposing stone foundations of towering columns and walls tell the story of a grand palace dedicated to the Inca deity Wiracocha. The scale and craftsmanship of this temple will transport you back to the height of the Inca Empire, evoking a sense of awe at the civilization's architectural prowess.

The final stop on your cultural odyssey is the picturesque town of Andahuaylillas, where you’ll visit the exquisite Church of San Pedro Apóstol. Often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America," this hidden gem dazzles with its richly adorned ceilings and walls, covered in vivid murals that depict religious scenes in intricate detail. As you step inside, the warmth of the church's Baroque interior, combined with the artistry of its colonial paintings, will leave you spellbound.

As the sun sets, you’ll arrive in the historic city of Cusco. Transfer to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences. Enjoy a restful night’s stay in preparation for the adventures that await you tomorrow.

Mornings on Lake Titicaca start early. By 5 a.m., the local indigenous people are already out fishing, while you’ll set off on your excursion around 7 a.m.

Your first stop will be the floating Uros Islands, a community made up of over 40 islands. These ancient settlements date back to the pre-Inca era, with the ancestors of the Uros people having lived in the region for centuries. The islands are constructed entirely from the abundant reeds that grow in the lake. The locals use these reeds not only to build their homes and boats but also as fuel and even food. The tour will last about an hour and a half, and you’ll also have the option to take a ride on a traditional reed boat.

Next, sail towards the picturesque Island of Taquile, where the indigenous community proudly preserves its unique Quechua traditions in the midst of a predominantly Aymara region. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with traditional music and dances, followed by a nutritious lunch at a local community restaurant. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and its surroundings.

Conclude the day with a return journey to the port of Puno, where you'll be transferred back to your hotel, reflecting on the enriching cultural experiences of the day.

 Departure transfer to the airport of Lima.

In the morning, you will get acquainted with the city during a sightseeing tour.

The tour will begin with a stop at the Love Park in Miraflores, offering a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. The park features the sculpture "The Kiss" by Victor Delfin, and the Gaudi-style walls are inscribed with phrases from love poems by Peruvian poets. On the way to the historic center, you will pass through the Miraflores district, by the Huaca Pucllana pyramid, a ceremonial center of the Lima culture, and cross the San Isidro district, the financial heart of the city. Here, you will see the Huaca Huallamarca pyramid, an ancient pre-Incan shrine (on Sundays and holidays, the Huaca Huallamarca is visited instead of the Cathedral, which is closed to tourists). You'll stop at the central square, surrounded by the Government Palace, the Municipality, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Cathedral, where the conquistador and founder of Lima, Francisco Pizarro, is buried. Then, you will stroll to the Monastery of Saint Dominic, through whose narrow corridors Saint Martin de Porres and Saint Rose of Lima walked in the 17th century, and where their remains now rest. The tour lasts 3-3.5 hours.

Next you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure.

You can extend your adventure by adding a trip to Cusco or the jungles to this tour. Get in touch with us, and we'll help you plan your journey for a seamless and enjoyable experience.