Machu Picchu and the Amazon

Introduce yourself to the best of Peru’s natural wonders and local culture on a 10-day adventure.

Get in touch with the Andean past in the former Inca capital of Cusco, spend two unforgettable nights in our jungle lodge listening to an orchestra of wildlife all around you, and hike the Inca Trail (or catch the scenic train) to Machu Picchu. With the region’s leading experts as your guide, the sky’s the limit in this inspiring place.

Itinerary

DAY 1 LIMA
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included.

DAY 2 LIMA/TAMBOPATA
Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by motorized canoe to the comfortable, intimate, and exclusive G Lodge Amazon located in the lush Tambopata Rainforest.

DAY 3 TAMBOPATA
Enjoy guided jungle excursions led by expert naturalists to spot wildlife at nearby oxbow lakes, rivers, and clay licks. Spend some time relaxing in a hammock, enjoying the local swimming hole then go for a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner.

DAY 4 TAMBOPATA/CUSCO
Travel by boat out of the jungle to Puerto Maldonado for the flight over the Andes and into the heart of Inca territory, Cusco. This evening, look to the night sky for a different view at the Cusco Planetarium. Enjoy a presentation on the southern sky, contemporary astronomy, and the ancient Incas’ relationship with the cosmos. Visit the on-site museum and use the telescopes to admire the stars.

DAY 5 CUSCO/URUBAMBA
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley including the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Visit the “Parque de la Papa” (“Potato Park”), exclusive to Journeys and part of G Adventures for Good – walk through this rural community with a local guide to learn about potato cultivation, weaving, and the importance of both to Andean culture. Also, enjoy lunch at the G Adventures-supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosqo, an indigenous village.

DAY 6 INCA TRAIL
Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into things with a straight forward day of hiking, the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins will give you plenty to look at.

DAY 7 INCA TRAIL
Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.

DAY 8 INCA TRAIL
Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

DAY 9 MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO
The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site and free time to explore until noon as permitted by the tourist ticket. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon.

DAY 10 CUSCO
Depart at any time.