Andes & Amazon

Travel Just 4U's representative in Ecuador will meet you at the airport upon arrival. They will be holding a sign with your name after you leave the secure area with your bags. 

They will escort you to your private transfer, assist you on check-in at your hotel and present you with a detailed itinerary for your experiences in Ecuador. This is your chance to run through specific pick up times and logistics for your tours in the country. If you have any questions regarding your itinerary, ask them now. 

Marquiz Hotel Boutique is set in Quito, 1.1 km from El Ejido Park. 1.9 km from El Ejido Park Art Fair, the hotel offers a garden and a terrace. Free WiFi is available and La Carolina Park is 2.9 km away.

At the hotel, each room is equipped with a desk and a flat-screen TV. Rooms are fitted with a private bathroom. 

A bicycle rental service is offered by Marquiz Hotel Boutique. The accommodation can conveniently provide information at the reception to help guests to get around the area.

This morning, you will check out of the hotel and meet your driver who will take you to Polylepis via a local market. You will begin by driving north towards Imbabura, “the lakes” – Province. We will head to hacienda la Compañia. This hacienda belonged to the Jesuits until Charles III expelled the Jesuits colonies. Now five generations of Jarrin belongs to the family, who has managed to diversify the use of heritage and the business of roses. Therefore, this is a perfect spot to discover and learn about Ecuadorian roses. 

Afterwards, visit the famous Otavalo Indian Market, the biggest in South America. Here is where vendors proudly offer a stunning variety of weavings such as the famous ponchos, among other textiles like rugs, mittens, and scarves. This market is like a rainbow due to the colors of the textiles exhibited. Without a doubt, it is an ideal place to find handicrafts, jewelry, and another artisan craftwork. 

Then we will head up-north to the millenary Polylepis forest. This unique endemic ecosystem, includes the last 12 hectares left in the Andes. The name Polylepis is in fact derived from the Greek words poly (many) plus letis (layers), referring to the shredding, multi-layered bark that is common to all species of the genus. The bark is thick, rough and densely layered for protection against low temperatures. These are also known as “paper trees”. The forest, combined with small waterfalls and clear lakes offers incredible views that create a scenario brought from fairy tales. After exploring this area, we will head to your accommodation for the evening. 

A 180 km north of the capital Quito, in the middle of the Andes of Ecuador is Polyepis Lodge, a private reserve, that through Eco tourism, aims to conserve the last remnant of Forest Millennial Polylepis Incana existing in the world. 

We invite you to visit our Polylepis Lodge sublime earthly paradise in the middle of this natural wonder, it is immersed as part of the endemic flora of the cozy Lodge 20 deluxe rooms, which are lost in the middle of ancient forest, which has the legends where elves and gnomes come to life for the cold nights of wasteland. Where emulating the heroes of the Old West, one defeat to sleep wrapped in duvets and blankets under the shelter of the fireplace with the subtle sound of the fire, which is the detail a restful and unforgettable night.

This morning, enjoy a final walk inside this enchanted forest and then we will continue our way onto the Province of lakes, in order to visit Warmi-MaKi. 

Warmi-MaK is a space for the daily work of women in the community that originality demonstrates the preparation and development of handicrafts. With the demonstration workshops visitors can see as a handmade product works, the typical dress of women Otavaleña, as well as cooking, music and dance, are part of this mosaic of indigenous culture in Otavalo. After visiting the community and understanding the labors of these women, you will have a typical lunch that will delight yourself over the flavor of the Andes. 

Afterwards we will visit the peaceful village of Peguche, which is located just outside of Otavalo. There once was a time when the village was bustling with traffic and visitors, as a railway line used to run through the village; but now, as the lines have been unused since the 1980s, tranquility has reached Peguche. Even though it is not as busy as it used to be, there is still more than enough reasons to visit this picturesque location and its friendly locals, who make a living out of agriculture, as well as weaving.

We will also visit Peguche Wasi, a gallery where the ancestral knowledge of the kichwa town is conserved. Here we will find a workshop where they hand make and sell indigenous handicrafts. This is an excellent opportunity for learning more in-depth about these craftworks. Additionally, there is an exposition with wood, spinning, crocheting, and murals that retell the history and magic of the Kichwa Otavalo. Before continuing our trip, we will visit another local workshop called “Taita Gundo” where we can see how the traditional Andean musical instruments are made. You will then be taken to your accommodation for the evening which a  typical hacienda. 

This 150 year-old farmhouse is tucked in a lush mountain valley less than 2 hours from Quito. It is a 25-minute downhill walk to the markets of Otavalo and overlooks the often snow-capped Cotacachi Mountain. It features a garden, volleyball and football courts, and free private parking.

The rustic rooms at Las Palmeras Inn feature a fully equipped bathroom, a desk, and a garden view. Wi-Fi is available in public areas and is free of charge. Its garden cottages have fireplaces, new bathrooms and patios 

A waiter-served breakfast is provided daily. Laundry, dry cleaning and ironing services are available upon request. 

This morning after breakfast, we will make our next stop to visit Cuicocha Crater Lake, it lies at the foot of the extinct volcano Cotocachi (4968m) in the Western Cordillera in the province of Imbabura. 

This area is home to several mostly dormant volcanoes, like Mojanda, Imbabura and Cayambe. All those volcanoes contributed with their historical eruptions to the fertile valley, one of the most productive agricultural regions in the Andean highland. Not only do volcanoes bring short term devastation but they have long term benefits for the environment and nature. 

Our trip will continue by visiting the small town of Cotacachi. The village is well known for its hand-crafted leather products. Methods of tanning, stretching and molding the leather skins have been passed down through the generations and perfected into an art. Afterwards we will head north to Quito and will check in to your hotel for the evening. 

You will be picked up after breakfast for your shared tour.

The day begins visiting the Quito's downtown, one of the biggest in South America, our first point is the oldest street of the city, La Ronda, that used to be the home of musicians, poets and politics back in time. Here we will encounter with the traditions of the city first by stopping in the gastronomic capsule, to have an explanation of the different local spices that are used for the typical Ecuadorian gastronomy. Continuing we will visit the house of handicrafts made of metal and wood most of them designed for the traditional churches and made by hand for furniture decoration. After we are done with la Ronda we will visit the Independence Square, surrounded by important historical buildings. 

Visit the Cathedral (XVI Century), the Presidential Palace, El Sagrario Church (XVII Century), and La Compañia de Jesus (XVII Century), one of the most beautiful baroque churches in South America. Not to be missed are the Church of San Francisco and Monastery, built a few months after the arrival of the Spaniards (XVI Century). Finally you will drive to the viewpoint at the Panecillo hill, where the virgin of Quito is located, the unique winged virgin of the world. You will have a wonderful view over the city and the surrounding mountains and volcanoes.

Next you will drive 30 kms north of Quito, towards the Middle of the World where the equatorial line divides the northern and southern hemispheres. You will visit the main monument built in honour of the French scientific expedition that arrived in Ecuador in the XVIII century to determine the correct location of the equator line. Here you will have the opportunity to visit the Inti Ñan Museum, a scientific and cultural museum, located in the exact crossing of the Equator Line. Return to Quito.

Note: Lunch is not included in this tour. Your guide will provide time for you to eat and explain your food options. 

We will start our day by traveling to the southern part of the highlands, through the “Volcanoes’ Avenue” towards one of the world´s highest active volcanoes - Cotopaxi (5,897 m). During the journey, we can enjoy the marvelous view of the Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active snow-capped volcanoes in the world. 

But firstly, we will visit one of the local markets in this region, depending on the day of the week for understanding the local culture and even experience the barter process, and, why not, being able to taste some of the local and exotic flavors that Ecuador has to offer to us. 

After this introduction to the local culture, we will drive along the Pan-American Highway towards the Cotopaxi Volcano. Once we are here, we will reach the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park and drive on a third-class road through a pine forest to Limpiopungo lagoon, a glacial Andean lake located at 3,800 m (12467 ft). From this site, we can have a magnificent view of the impressive Cotopaxi volcano. Afterwards, you will be continue onto your accommodation for the evening.

Featuring a restaurant and a garden, Hacienda La Cienega offers free Wi-Fi and American breakfast in Latacunga. Guests can enjoy a welcome cocktail upon arrival.

Providing a tranquil environment, the rooms in La Cienega feature private bathrooms. Room service is provided.Guests can order regional and international dishes at the restaurant, and laundry services are available. 

Today after breakfast, we will combine our visit the Quilotoa Crater Lake with a local indigenous market (it varies according to the day). Every local and indigenous market has its own local flare. 

The Quilotoa Crater Lake is located in the province of Cotopaxi and is part of the ecological Reserve Ilinizas. The beautiful lake in the crater, with its emerald colored water, will take your breath away. During the trip we will enjoy the picturesque landscape, seeing on the way rural indigenous people in their small agricultural communities. This lagoon is not just any lagoon; it’s a lagoon with a legend. There is a legend that tells about King of volcanoes Quilotoa who used to live on the surface of the lagoon. He faced many battles with his worst enemy, Toachi, who was living beneath the surface of the lagoon. The temperature is warmer inside than outside, it's a half-hour hike down from the viewpoint (and 1-2 hour hike back up the 280-meter vertical ascent). After the Quilotoa Crater Lake, we will visit one of the Indigenous Markets in this region, depending on the day then will head towards your accommdation. 

There are different Local Markets in this region and they vary according to the day: Tuesday: Latacunga
Wednesday: Pujilí 
Thursday: Saquisilí or Sangolquí 
Saturday: Zumbahua or Latacunga 
Sunday: Pujilí or Machachi or Salcedo or Sangolquí 
Friday: no local markets in this area 

Hosteria Rumipamba De Las Rosas features a restaurant, free bikes, a bar and garden in San Miguel de Salcedo. This 4-star hotel offers room service and guests can make use of free WiFi and free private parking.

At the hotel, each room is equipped with a wardrobe. At Hosteria Rumipamba De Las Rosas every room comes with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and a patio with a garden view.

You can play table tennis and tennis at the accommodation, and the area is popular for cycling.

After brekafast we will head to Baños, this small city is located in a valley with waterfalls and hot springs. One of the main attractions is the Tungurahua, a large stratovolcano, derives its name from the local language, meaning 'throat of fire as well as a variety of adventure sports. Our tour will begin visiting the famous waterfalls “Manto de la Novia” and “Pailon del Diablo”, later we search for a lookout point to see the Tungurahua active volcano.

In the afternoon we will continue the drive to Riobamba through “El Arenal”, an arid location in the slopes of Chimborazo Mountain. This gigantic mountain was included in the famous 1802 expedition led by the renowned German scientist Alexander Von Humboldt. If time and weather allow, this location offers amazing views of wild llamas, vicunas and alpacas. We will then head to your hotel in Baños.

With a mountain and forest backdrop, this relaxed spa hotel in a European Renaissance-style building next to Virgen de Agua Santa waterfall is a 6-minute walk from Museo Fray Enrique Mideros.

The bright rooms offer free Wi-Fi, TVs and desks or tables. Suites add fireplaces, minibars and balconies with waterfall views. Family cabins have extra beds; some feature bunk beds.

Free amenities include a breakfast buffet and parking. Additional amenities include a restaurant and a spa with saunas, Jacuzzis and Ayurvedic treatments. There's an outdoor pool, a fitness room, a playground and a tennis court, in addition to pool tables.

After breakfast we will head to Papallacta. Along the way, you will appreciate the radical change of scenery due to altitude variation. Surrounded by a beautiful landscape at 3,300 m level you will discover Papallacta Hot Springs. 

Then you will have a short walk in the moors to observe the unusual local flora. After that, you will enjoy a relaxing bath in the natural hot waters. 

Just 45 minutes from the Quito International Airport, staying overnight at Termas de Papallacta is a fabulous alternative to staying at the Quito airport. 

Featuring a spa, a restaurant, and hot spring baths, Termas de Papallacta offers rooms and bungalows with free WiFi. Decorated with wooden walls and gabled roofs, rooms at Termas de Papallacta are fitted with wooden furnishing. Some of the bungalows feature seating areas with fireplaces.

Guests can relax in the thermal and swimming pools. Several beauty treatments are available at the spa, including aromatherapy, therapeutic massages, body treatments with mud and clay or chocolate, individual hydro massages, and Turkish baths at the Thermal Cave.

In the morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport in order to connect your local or international flight. this transfer will take approximately 1.5 hours. 

Walk 2 mins on your own across the terminal to your hotel at the airport.

Stellar hospitality, steps from the Airport.

Linked directly to Jorge Chavéz International Airport and offering upscale amenities for discerning travelers, our non-smoking hotel offers the ultimate in convenience and comfort, whether you’re exploring Peru’s capital or just passing through.

Experience legendary Peruvian hospitality as soon as you arrive, with a handy walkway that leads from the terminal to our front door, and a free welcome drink upon check in. Savour our free breakfast buffet daily and an onsite restaurant and lounge. Rooms are available either nightly or hourly, if needed, to recharge during a long layover for your convenience.

We’re connected to the airport, but quiet enough that you’ll forget. Enjoy the serenity of your guest room, or relax in our spa and 24-hour fitness facilities, with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, and massage.

Note: Breakfast served daily from 4:00am to 10:30am.

Walk 2 minutes from your hotel to the departures area at the Lima Airport. 

Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción is located between the Tambopata National Reserve and the shores of the Madre de Dios River. Nineteen private cabanas sitting majestically on stilts and a six-room casa grande with high ceilings and a rustic thatched roof are peppered around the property.

An astonishing selection of activities is led by local explorer guides, offering first-hand knowledge of the Peruvian Amazon. Excursions include a visit to Lake Sandoval, a water mirror inhabited by Howler monkeys, caimans and giant river otters.

Day 1:
Your journey starts after arriving to Puerto Maldonado, where the staff will welcome you at the airport and provide the necessary information for your stay. 

Navigate by outboard motorised canoe along the Madre de Dios River to Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion for approximately 25 minutes. Enjoy lunch with organic ingredients and native flavours. 

After lunch, take a walk through Concepcion Trails, the on property nature trails, where you will discover and learn about primary and secondary rainforest, its components, uses, transformations by the human being, and its relevance for the world. 

At dusk, navigate by outboard motorised canoe, on a Twilight River Excursion. By sailing on the Madre de Dios River, you will learn about its ecosystem, Amazonian creeks, nocturnal animals, and the southern constellations. 

In the evening enjoy a nice dinner in the Casa Grande’s dining room.

Deep within the heart of the Amazon – where the story of Inkaterra first began – lays Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, located between the Tambopata National Reserve and the shores of the Madre de Dios River. 25 private cabanas sitting majestically on stilts and a 5-room casa grande with high ceilings and a rustic thatched roof are peppered around the property.

An astonishing selection of activities is led by local explorer guides, offering first-hand knowledge of the Peruvian Amazon. Excursions include a visit to Lake Sandoval, a water mirror inhabited by Howler monkeys, caimans and giant river otters.

The sun rises once again and after an early breakfast, you will take our Native Farm excursion where you will be able to learn local techniques of cultivation and taste some of the products during the visit. 

Next, visit the Botanical Garden, discover the immense variety of medicinal plants considered part of the “natural pharmacy” used by the habitants in the amazon region. Compare the medicinal uses of local medicine with traditional remedies. 

Arrive back to Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion and have lunch. 

After relaxing for a bit, get ready for the Cocha water excursion. Enjoy a dugout canoe ride on the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion natural pond (cocha). Try native fishing applying the “catch and release” techniques, as you enjoy the scenery observing hoatzins (Opisthocomus hoazin), a diversity of fly catchers, and gray-necked woodrails (Aramides cajanea). Disembark at the remains of Fitzcarrald steam boat; learn about its history and how it inspired Inkaterra to ask Werner Herzog to film the award-winning “Fitzcarraldo”, best director at Cannes, 1982. 

You will be able to participate in the Inland Collpa during the evening, where you will see different species and their night routines by observing through our “blinds”. 

End up your day with a pleasant dinner back at the lodge.

After breakfast at the lodge, ride back to Puerto Maldonado by outboard motorized canoe. You will arrive at the Butterfly House where you may wait for your flight to your next destination, while visiting this beautiful Butterfly House and learning about the fascinating transformation of these colorful insects.

From the Butterfly House you will be transferred to the airport.

To allow your body to adapt to altitude, we will transfer you directly from arrival at the Cuzco airport (3,400 m.a.s.l) to the Sacred Valley (2,800 m.a.s.l.) This is much lower than Cuzco, but still higher than Machu Picchu which is 2,400 m.a.s.l. 

We recommend you spend this afternoon staying hydrated, relaxing and eating very light food. Altitude can slow digestion and dehydration can occur.

Please do avoid being overly active this afternoon as it is likely you will feel the effects of altitude.

The name “Parakitampu”derives from the Quechua words “pakari”, which means “dawn” and “tampu” which means “home”. Pakaritampu Hotel is in the heart of the Sacred Valley, located in the village of Ollantaytambo. It is a short walk to the train station with direct connection to Machu Picchu, and one hour and a half drive from the city of Cuzco.

The town of Ollantaytambo is the starting point of the Inca Trail, a beautiful place that offers various tourist attractions.

Rooms here will provide you with a private bathroom with hot water and toiletries, a digital safety-deposit box, a TV with cable channels, amenities, WiFi access, a phone, and a garden and mountain view. A heater can be requested.

At Hotel Pakaritampu you will find a 24-hour front desk and a garden. Other facilities offered include luggage storage and a laundry service.

After breakfast you will be picked up at your hotel to start the tour.

First you will visit Pisac, a picturesque town located 32km northeast of Cuzco. Its colourful markets take place every day. Here merchants sell all sorts of handicrafts, the most important of which are the textiles and ceramic goods such as ceremonial goblets called "Q'eros", plates, ashtrays, necklace and replicas of pre-Hispanic pottery.

Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon you will visit the remarkable fortress of Ollantaytambo, built by the Incas. A very steep stone staircase leads into the fortress. Across an esplanade there is a temple with 10 niches, and beside it a block of partially unworked stones. Beyond another esplanade, six huge rectangular monoliths (estimated weight: 50 tons) form the Temple of the Sun. Vestiges of rooms are seen on top of the fortress, and on the other side of the hill a four storey building, believed to be either a military school or prison.

After the tour you will be transferred to your hotel.

OPTIONAL: Not included in starting price

Visit Maras & Moray on your All Terrain Bike (ATB). Drive through the remote villages and agricultural fields with beautiful landscapes, looking for a alternative experience to visit the historical Inca legacy.

The ATB tour starts with a driving lesson to teach you how to ride your quad bike  After that, you will visit the village of Maras and continue the adventure for a visit  to the archaeological complex of Moray.

You will visit the salt mines before returning to the base at Pata Cruz from where you will be transferred back the hotel in Ollantaytambo village.

*Duration: 5 hours 13:30 - 18:30 pm
*Difficulty: Moderate
*Bring With You: Sunglasses and waterproof sunscreen

Please prepare a small bag with essentials for tonight. Your luggage will be picked up at your Sacred Valley Hotel and transferred to your hotel in Cuzco. 

Only a small day bag is allowed on the train to Aguas Calientes.

Ollantaytambo is a village in the Sacred Valley of south Peru, set on the Urubamba River amid snow-capped mountains. It's known for the Ollantaytambo ruins, a massive Inca fortress with large stone terraces on a hillside. Major sites within the complex include the huge Sun Temple and the Princess Baths fountain. The village's old town is an Inca-era grid of cobblestoned streets and adobe buildings.

Top things to do in Ollantaytambo:

• Visit The Ollantaytambo Ruins and Terraces (from 7 a.m. - 5.30 p.m)
• Explore the old town streets
• Browse the souvenir Market 
• Stop by Mercado San Pedro
• Visit The Depositos de Pinkuylluna

After breakfast and the morning at leisure, you will go to Aguas Calientes via train from Ollantaytambo town.

Additional details of your train time and logistics will be provided to you by our ground partner upon arrival in Peru. If you have any questions, be sure to discuss with your assistance guide in Aguas Calientes. 

Spend the time at leisure in Aguas Calientes exploring the small town. There is a craft market here, however, many similar items can be found at a better price in Cuzco. You can also visit the 'hot waters' (hot springs) that gave the town its name.

Step into the smart, contemporary and cozy confines of El MaPi, amidst the picturesque Machu Picchu Pueblo. Discover an efficient, lively and friendly atmosphere, welcoming guests expecting an unfussy, down-to-earth break. The flowing lobby creates a sense of vitality. Lofty ceilings, panoramic windows and an open café allow natural light to filter between tall eucalyptus dried branches, creating an ambiance of order and well being.

Relax in a pleasant and wholesome ambiance after your enlightening visit to Peru’s most famous destination: the Machu Picchu Archaeological site.

Note: Dinner in the restaurant at the hotel is included in your stay.

OPTIONAL: Not included in starting price

Today you will climb Huayna Picchu Montain and have a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel. Full logistical details will be provided upon your arrival to Aguas Calientes.

Well known as ‘The Lost City of the Incas’, Machu Picchu was built around 1450, but abandoned 100 years later at the time of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. In 1911 Hiram Bingham, an American historian discovered its existence with its classic Inca style. The main buildings of Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows, are located in the Sacred District of Machu Picchu.

Huayna Picchu is the towering mountain behind the actual site of Machu Picchu. From a distance the mountain looks impossible to climb without the necessary tools but even though a strenuous climb with some parts where you will actually will need both hands and feet, the climb is quite possible for all averagely fit visitors. For many people climbing Huayna Picchu is one of the highlights when visiting Machu Picchu. The climb itself is interesting as you will see how the Inca did cut out some steps out of the rocks and as you wind around the side of a mountain will see Machu Picchu from different angles.

• Only 400 people allowed daily: 2 groups – first departing at 7:00am (200), second at 10:00 am (200)
• The climb takes about 2 to 3 hours return

After breakfast you will meet the Travel Just 4U Representative at the hotel who will explain the logistics in detail of your day.

Next you will be transferred by bus to the gates of Machu Picchu where you will have a private guided tour of Machu Picchu. You will then have free time to explore the site at your own leisure. Well known as ‘The Lost City of the Incas’, Machu Picchu was built around 1450, but abandoned 100 years later at the time of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. 

In 1911 Hiram Bingham, an American historian discovered its existence with its classic Inca style. The main buildings of Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows, are located in the Sacred District of Machu Picchu.

After you explore the citadel, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back to Cuzco

*Reminder: Only overnight bags or small carry on suitcases are allowed on the train. Your full luggage will be transferred to your Cuzco hotel.

You will return via train from Aguas Calientes to your Cuzco hotel via train and transfer. Depending on when you travel, the logistics are as follows. 

May to December Return Logistics:
From May to December, the train runs from Aguas Calientes station all the way to Poroy Station just 25 mins outside of Cuzco. Your private transfer will be waiting for you at the Poroy Station to take you to your Cuzco hotel.

January to April Return Logistics:
From January to April, the train runs only from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo Station. From there, everyone on the train boards shared coaches for the drive from Ollantaytambo Station to Wanchaq Station (just 5 minutes from the centre of Cuzco). This shared coach is operated by Peru Rail.

Your private transfer will be waiting for you at the Wanchaq Station to take you to your Cuzco hotel.

Additional details of your train time and logistics will be provided to you by our ground partner upon arrival in Peru. If you have any questions, be sure to discuss with your assistance guide in Aguas Calientes. 

Ramada by Wyndham Costa del Sol Cusco is a converted 17th-century mansion located in Cuzco’s centre, a few steps away from Cuzco Main Square and La Merced Church. It offers colonial-style accommodation and free WiFi. 

Ramada by Wyndham Costa del Sol Cuzco ’s Paprika Cuzco Restaurant serves breakfast buffet and international dishes with a blend of traditional Peruvian cuisine for lunch and dinner. Walak bar serves drinks and snacks.

San Pedro Train Station is nearby and other close by attractions include the Central Market, Cathedral of Cuzco, and Inka Museum.

You will be picked up at your hotel for this shared half day tour of Cuzco and nearby ruins. 

Together with small group of other passengers, your guide will bring you to visit the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, a colossal structure of enormous stones, carved and fitted together with incredible precision; Qenqo, the religious center; we will enjoy a panoramic view of Puca-Pucara, the red fortress and then we will visit Tambomachay with their water fountains. Afterwards, our tour continues in the Imperial City, we will stroll through the Main Square, where we will discover the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. We will continue with a visit to one of the most impressive buildings of Incan Cusco: the Qoricancha (the Golden Temple) - a temple dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold.

After the tour, you will free to choose one of the many restaurants in the vicinity that will let you sample delicious Peruvian cuisine.

OPTIONAL ADD ON: Not included in starting price

Palcoyo is just 20kms away from the more famous Vinincunca mountain but they are two sides of the same coin. While the unique mountain of colours of Vinincunca has thousands of visitors every day, Palcoyo offers not one but three mountains of varied colours without the vast number of visitors. 

Additionally, there is a unique rock forest located in the highest complex for you to explore.

7:30 - 7:40 Pick up from Hotel
7:40 - 11:15 Drive Cuzco to Palcoyo
11:15 - 13:00 Sightseeing, walking and photography at Palcoyo
13:00 - 13:30 Drive from Palcoyo to Picnic are
13:30 - 14:00 Simple picnic lunch
14:00 - 17:00 Return dive to Cuzco

Recommended Gear: Trekking shoes and clothes, windbreaker, hat gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and camera.

Notes: Be sure to eat breakfast at your hotel before pick up.

OPTIONAL ADD ON: Not included in starting price

You will be picked up from your hotel in Cuzco between 5:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. (this depends on the location of your hotel). The group will then drive to Mollepata where you will have breakfast in Casa Salkantay restaurant. After breakfast the trip continues with a 1 hour and 30 minute drive, arriving at Soraypampa place.  Here you will begin the walk to the Humantay Lagoon, depending on your fitness level it will be approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.  After arriving to Humantay Lagoon, you will have around 40 minutes to explore, take photos and appreciate the beauty of the lagoon with your guide. You will then walk back to Soraypampa where you will have lunch and enjoy some time to relax before getting back on the bus to return to Cuzco. You will arrive back to Cuzco at approximately 5:00 pm in the afternoon.

Walking time: Approx. 4 hours (with buffet lunch)
Level of trek: Moderate Difficulty 

We recommend visiting the San Pedro Markets for souvenirs and local snacks, walking around the main square and exploring the many shops and restaurants in the Cuzco.  

Top things to do in Cusco: 

1. Visit Plaza de Armas
2. Explore San Pedro Market
3. Visit Cusco Cathedral
4. Visit Qurikancha Museum
5. Explore San Blas neighborhood
6. Go to Museums and art Galleries
7. Try Peruvian food & tradicional drinks