The Experience: 9 Days/8 Nights
The expedition gains momentum as you weave through the Pisac Archaeological site and market en route to the Sacred Valley. Horseback riding through the Moray & Maras area and the exhilaration of Via Ferrata & Zip lining on subsequent days set the stage for an adventurous evening at the Starlodge suite. The climax arrives with the One Day Inca Trail hike leading to the majestic Machu Picchu.
The optional Machu Picchu Mountain hike adds an extra layer of awe. As the journey concludes, we promise an unforgettable fusion of adventure, history, and natural beauty.
Day 1 - Arrival in Lima
a.m. | Fly to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 - Depart for Cusco, Pisac Market and The Sacred Valley of the Incas
a.m. | Transfer from your hotel to the airport and board your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival at Cusco airport, your guide welcomes you in the arrivals hall. Hop into the van, and embark on a journey to the Sacred Valley, situated 500 meters lower than Cusco City, facilitating better acclimatisation to the altitude. En route, you'll drive to the Pisac archaeological site, showcasing magnificent terraces and Inca structures.
Day 3 - The Sacred Red Valley - Horseback Riding Moray & Maras
a.m. | You'll be picked up from your hotel and drive to Maras village, where you’ll meet the horses. Enjoy beautiful views of the Andean Altiplano on your way. After getting acquainted with your horses, embark on a ride through spectacular landscapes, away from the beaten path.
Experience the smooth ambling gait of your horses, perfect for the terrain. Reach Moray, an archaeological site serving as an experimental agricultural station for developing different strains of crops.
p.m. | You'll have lunch at a charming venue with splendid mountain views precedes your visit to the Maras village salt mines (9,840ft). Marvel at the snow-capped mountains of Chicon, Veronica, and Salcantay. The Maras salt mines consist of around 3000 small pools, each about 5m2, irrigated with salty water from a natural spring. Fascinatingly, the salt mines are still in use today.
Day 4 - Via Ferrata & Zip line & Starlodge Adventure
a.m. | The Ferrata route, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, offers a thrilling experience. A 300m cable and iron ladders traverse a 1,000ft cliff, providing breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. The climber is securely tied to a steel cable, ensuring safety while enjoying the stunning landscape.
p.m. | Continue with a short walk to the starting point of the Zip Line, featuring six cables varying in length. Conclude your day flying over the Sacred Valley. After lunch, venture to the Starlodge Adventure Suites, a premium accommodation with glass pods and a high-altitude spa. Experience an exhilarating climb to the spa and enjoy hot tubs with views of the valley. A briefing on lodge usage precedes dinner.
Day 5 - The Sacred Valley - Pumamarca & Ollantaytambo
a.m. | Return to the high-altitude spa for a morning of wellness. After breakfast, descend from Starlodge. We’ll drive you to the Pallata community, the starting point of today’s hike. Hike uphill through native-tree forests, reaching the Pumamarca archaeological site, originally Wari and later taken by the Incas. After the visit, hike downhill to your vehicle, which will take you to Ollantaytambo.
p.m. | Lunch is a unique experience at an organic farm set on an old Inca Terrace, participating in the preparation of a traditional Pachamanca. Explore the farm’s coffee roaster and small distillery with Andean Whisky. After lunch, your private transport will take you back to your hotel. For tonight’s dinner, we recommend a restaurant in Urubamba, with transfers included.
Day 6 - The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
a.m. | Early morning departure to the Ollantaytambo train station for the Vistadome train journey to Aguas Calientes. The train stops for a venture onto the Inca Trail with an expert guide. Visit the preserved Inca site, “Chachabamba,” and follow the trail to the impressive “Wiñay Wayna” archaeological site. Marvel at the masterful Inca engineering used for agricultural irrigation and food production. Enjoy lunch with the first views of Machu Picchu.
p.m. | Descend to Machu Picchu’s gate along the royal Inca Road. The late afternoon, with fewer visitors, offers a special view of the citadel.
