Fantastic Peru: 11 Days Trek Through Southern Peru – Cusco, Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley

Inca Jungle trek 4 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival to Lima, City Tour

Arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Meet your driver for a private transfer to your hotel in Miraflores or Barranco, two of Lima’s most vibrant districts. Rest and relax after your journey. If you arrive early, take a short walk along the Miraflores Malecon (cliffside boardwalk) to enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Try ceviche, Peru’s national dish, or anticuchos (grilled skewers).

Overnight in Lima.

Day 02: Ica and Huacachina

Start early (around 6:00 AM) for the 4-hour drive from Lima to Ica. Enjoy the scenic drive along the Pan-American Highway, passing through coastal deserts and small towns. Head straight to Huacachina, a stunning desert oasis located just 5 km from Ica. Walk around the oasis, take photos of the palm-fringed lagoon, and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Visit the Huacachina Legend Museum to learn about the local folklore surrounding the oasis.

Embark on a thrilling dune buggy ride through the vast sand dunes surrounding Huacachina. This is a highlight of the trip! Try sandboarding down the dunes for an adrenaline rush. Visit a local winery or Pisco distillery in Ica, such as Tacama Vineyard or El Catador. Learn about the production process and sample Peruvian wines and Pisco.

Stay overnight in Huacachina to enjoy the peaceful desert atmosphere.

Day 03: Ballestas Islands

Leave early (around 6:00 AM) for the 1.5-hour drive to Paracas, the gateway to the Ballestas Islands. Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the «Poor Man’s Galapagos.» During the 2-hour tour, you’ll see sea lions, penguins, and boobies in their natural habitat. Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant in Paracas, such as Chalana or Fiesta Restaurant.

If time permits, visit the Paracas National Reserve, a protected area with dramatic desert landscapes, red sand beaches, and coastal wildlife. Stop at viewpoints like Mirador de los Lobos and Playa Roja.

Begin the 3.5-hour drive back to Lima, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

Day 04: Fly to Cusco and City Tour

Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. It is advisable to take some time to acclimatize to the altitude (3,399 m above sea level). In the afternoon, you will enjoy a City Tour of the city. The first stop will be at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, surrounded by imposing colonial churches. Then, you will visit the Cathedral, famous for its architecture and works of art.

You will continue to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, one of the most important religious sites of the Inca Empire. From here, we will head to the outskirts of Cusco to visit Sacsayhuamán, a fortress with enormous stones assembled with great precision. We will also explore other archaeological sites, such as Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay.

Return to the hotel in Cusco. Free night.

Day 05: Sacred Valley Highlights

Depart in the morning for the Sacred Valley. Visit Pisac, a charming village known for its Inca ruins and artisan market. Explore the terraces and temples at the archaeological site. Stop at a local weaving community to learn about traditional textile techniques. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to explore the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, which were an ancient Inca agricultural center that surprises for its ingenious design.

Then, you will continue the tour to the Maras Salt Mines, where you will be able to observe the impressive network of salt ponds in a unique landscape. Throughout the tour, you will enjoy a spectacular Andean landscape, surrounded by mountains, valleys and panoramic views that make this trip an unforgettable experience.

The mix of history, culture and nature, added to the thrill of riding an ATV, makes this tour an ideal option for those seeking adventure and a touch of adrenaline while discovering the hidden treasures of Cusco.

Overnight in a hotel in Urubamba.

Day 06: Inca Jungle Start

From there, we head towards the sacred valley of the Incas, enjoying spectacular scenery and picturesque villages. After a short break in Ollantaytambo, we will continue driving for approximately 1 hour. We will arrive at the Abra Malaga mountain, the starting point of the downhill biking.

After safety preparations by our professional tour guides, we will descend for three hrs, passing through small villages, orchards, rivers, and streams, stopping briefly in the town Huamanmarca and continuing to our final destination of the day (Santa Maria), where we will have a delicious lunch.

After a break, we are ready to continue with the exciting adventure adrenaline of rafting, through rapids 3 and 4, for about three hours. We’ll drive back and hike to our local family’s house, Pispitayoc. We will have dinner and spend the night in the family house.
Facts and Figures:

• Hiking: 8 Hours/ 26 km Approx
• Highest Altitude: 2,300msl,
• Difficulty: Moderate and challenging day
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 07: Pispitayoc to Santa Teresa

We will begin early in the morning after a hearty breakfast, climbing up the jungle Mountains (Not high Altitude); this also will include a section of the authentic Inca trail. This climb provides beautiful landscapes, local culture, animals, coffee and coca plantations, and various native fruits such as bananas, avocados, pineapples & passion fruit. We will stop for a delicious lunch in the family house in Quellomayo village, where we will also have time to relax in a lovely garden area with hammocks.

We will continue Hiking and crossing the Urubamba river and winding our day down once we reach the town of Santa Teresa for some much-needed rest and relaxation after our nearly 13 km day trek. Here you can take an optional relaxation time in the hot springs (additional ten soles). We will enjoy our dinner and then sleep for the next day of adventure.

Facts and Figures:

• Hiking Distance: 8 Hours (18 km /approx, 11.1847 Miles)
• Highest altitude: 3,900m (12,795 ft.)
• Considered: Moderately and Challenging day
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 08: Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we will drive to have another excellent adventure morning at the highest Zipline in South America. If you’ve never “zipped” before, this is an adrenaline-buzzing way to explore this part of the region with expert guides and professional safety equipment in the canyon of Santa Teresa; this adventure includes six ziplines, a canopy bridgeof 200mt, on some of the highest, fastest and safest zip lines out there!

After this exating adventure, We will drive to Hidroelectrica, where we will enjoy a lunch break and start our hiking through the lush forest of the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu to reach our next destination, the town of Aguas Calientes. We will have dinner and stay our last night in a hotel at the foot of the great Machupicchu.

• Hiking Distance: 3 Hours/ 9 km Approx
• Highest Altitude: 2,100msl,
• Activities: Zipline and Hiking
• Difficulty: Moderate and easy day
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 09: Machu Picchu, Train Back to Cusco

We will leave at 4:30 am to hike to Machu Picchu (one and a half hours) to arrive to appreciate the magnificent city as the sun rises. Your guide will provide a two-and-a-half-hour walking tour of this lost city, shedding light on issues about the design of their housing and family living situations.

After your guided exploring tour, you have the free time to continue exploring or choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (an additional USD 50) to gain an even better panoramic view of the entire area (this is an extra 45-minute walk and with limited availability, please arrange this activity when you book your adventure with our staff in the office). We will return back by foot to Aguas Calientes, where you will take the train to Ollantaytambo and then be picked up and bussed back to Cusco.

• MP Tickets: Booking in advance Required
• Highest Altitude: 2,400msl, at Machu Picchu
• Highlights: Machu Picchu
• Meals Breakfast (Lunch not Included)

Day 10: Rainbow Mountain (Optional)

Depart early (around 4:00 AM) for a full-day tour to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Enjoy a scenic drive through the Andes, passing through traditional villages and stunning landscapes. Arrive at the trailhead and begin your hike (approx. 2-3 hours) to Rainbow Mountain.

Alternatively, rent a horse for part of the journey. Reach the summit and marvel at the vibrant colors of the mountain, caused by mineral deposits. Hike back to the trailhead and enjoy a box lunch. Return to Cusco in the late afternoon. Relax and enjoy your final night in Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.

• Hiking Distance: 2 Hours Including
• Considered: Moderate / Challenging
• Highlights:  Rainbow Mountain
• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch at Hotel
• Return: Van
• Highest altitude: 5200 meters

Day 11: Fly Back to Lima

Transfer to Cusco Airport for your flight back to Lima. If time permits, enjoy a final meal in Lima or do some last-minute shopping at Larcomar in Miraflores.

Transfer to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your international departure. Goodbye Peru!

Inca Jungle trek 4 Days inclusions

Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

What is Included?

Transportation & Transfers

• Airport Logistics: All private transfers between airports and hotels in Lima and Cusco.
• Coastal Expedition: Private or semi-private transportation for the Lima – Ica – Paracas – Lima circuit.
• Inca Jungle Logistics: Ground transportation to Abra Malaga (biking start), Santa Maria, Santa Teresa, and Hidroelectrica.
• Railway Service: Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Return to Cusco: Private or shared bus transfer from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

Guided Tours & Adventure Activities

• Cultural Sightseeing: Guided City Tours in Lima and Cusco (including the Cathedral, Qorikancha, and surrounding ruins).
• Coastal Highlights: Ballestas Islands boat tour and Paracas National Reserve visit.
• Desert Adventure: Dune buggy ride and sandboarding in Huacachina.
• Sacred Valley: Full-day tour including Pisac, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines (including ATV equipment).
• Inca Jungle Trek: * Professional mountain biking equipment (bikes and safety gear).
  • Rafting excursion (Level 3 and 4) with professional guides.
  • South America’s highest Zipline experience in Santa Teresa.
• Machu Picchu: Professional guided tour of the citadel (approx. 2.5 hours).
• Rainbow Mountain (Day 10): Guided hike to Vinicunca with return transportation.

Accommodation & Meals

• Lodging: 03 nights in Lima.
  • 01 night in Huacachina (Desert Oasis).
  • 03 nights in Cusco.
  • 01 night in a hotel in Urubamba (Sacred Valley).
  • 01 night in a local family house (Pispitayoc) for a cultural experience.
  • 01 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Detailed Meals: * Daily breakfasts at hotels.
  • All meals during the Inca Jungle Trek (Days 06, 07, and 08).
  • Lunch and snacks during the Rainbow Mountain excursion.
  • Welcome dinner in Lima.

What is not included?

Personal Expenses

Flights: International airfare and domestic flights (Lima – Cusco – Lima).

Entrance Fees: Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico) for Sacred Valley and City Tour ruins.

• Entrance to the Cathedral and Qorikancha in Cusco.
• Entry fee to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa (approx. 10 Soles).

Optional Hikes: Permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be requested in advance at an additional cost of USD 50).

Specific Meals: Lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 09.

Dinners in Lima and Cusco are not explicitly mentioned.

Travel Insurance: Comprehensive medical and trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended for adventure trekking).

WHAT TO BRING FOR INCA JUNGLE TREK 4 DAYS?

Recommended Packing List: 11-Day Peru Adventure & Inca Jungle

For this expedition, you must prepare for drastic climatic shifts: from 30°C (86°F) in the Ica desert to -5°C (23°F) at Rainbow Mountain.

Essential Documentation (Highest Priority)

• Original Passport: Mandatory for all checkpoints, boarding the train, and entering Machu Picchu. You will be denied entry to the sanctuary without your original physical document.
• Travel Insurance: A digital or physical copy that specifically covers adventure activities (mountain biking, rafting, and ziplining).
• Cash in Soles (PEN): Necessary for small entrance fees (such as the Santa Teresa hot springs), tips, snacks, and local community purchases.

Gear for the Inca Jungle Trek

• Daypack (20L – 30L): To carry daily essentials during the trek. Your main luggage will stay in storage in Cusco.
• Trekking Boots: Waterproof boots with good ankle support and high-traction soles (ensure they are well broken-in).
• Synthetic Clothing (Moisture-wicking): Quick-dry t-shirts for biking and jungle hiking. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and cold.
• Waterproof Layer: A high-quality rain jacket or poncho is essential for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
• Swimwear & Light Towel: Indispensable for the rafting excursion and the Santa Teresa hot springs.

Extreme Climate Protection

• Heavy Cold Layer: A thermal or down jacket, gloves, and a wool hat for Rainbow Mountain (Day 10) and the high pass at Abra Malaga.
• High-Grade Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), UV-filter sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Andean radiation is among the highest in the world.
• Insect Repellent (Strong): Vital for the jungle sections (Santa Teresa and Aguas Calientes) to prevent mosquito bites.

Health & Technology

• Power Bank: Cold temperatures and long trekking days will drain phone batteries rapidly.
• Personal Medical Kit: Altitude sickness medication (Sorojchi pills), painkillers, and blister pads/moleskin.
• Reusable Water Bottle: For constant hydration, which is the most effective way to prevent altitude sickness.

Critical Operational Note

For Day 09 (Machu Picchu), the train operators restrict luggage to a small bag of 5kg to 8kg (11-17 lbs) per person. You must pack your essentials for the jungle and Machu Picchu in your daypack, leaving your main suitcase in the secure storage of your hotel in Cusco or Urubamba

Booking

Booking Your 11-Day Peru Adventure: Coast, Jungle & Andes

Thank you for choosing our 11-Day Peru Expedition. This journey is one of the most comprehensive ways to experience Peru, taking you from the Pacific coast of Lima and the desert oasis of Huacachina to the high-altitude wonders of Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. This expedition demands careful logistics to manage the rapid shifts between coastal, jungle, and glacial environments.

How to Book the 11-Day Peru Tour?

Booking your expedition is easy, safe, and efficient. To confirm your reservation, we kindly ask you to provide the information listed below. These details are mandatory for securing Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train seats, and domestic flight permits, which have strictly limited daily availability. All personal information must match your original passport exactly to avoid denied entry at government checkpoints.

Passenger Information Required

To guarantee accurate booking for your 11-day experience, please provide the following details for each traveler:
Full Name:
Passport Number:
Nationality: Copy of Passport (Photo/Scan):
Date of Birth:
Note: If you are renewing your passport, please inform us immediately, as your ticket must match the document you present at the Machu Picchu gate.

Accommodation & Travel Logistics

To ensure a seamless transition between the coast and the Andes, please provide: Lima Arrival Details: Flight number and arrival time for your private airport pick-up. Cusco Accommodation: The name of your hotel in Cusco for coordinated pick-ups before the Inca Jungle and Rainbow Mountain excursions. All accommodations-from hotels in Urubamba to the cultural family eco-lodge in Pispitayoc are pre-arranged to balance comfort with an authentic Andean experience.

Food & Dietary Requirements

Your well-being is our priority, especially during high-altitude trekking and jungle activities. If you have any dietary requirements or food allergies (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or specific allergies), please inform us during the booking process. Meals during the Inca Jungle Trek and Rainbow Mountain are prepared to provide the necessary energy for these demanding days.

Secure Payment & Tour Confirmation

Our payment system is fully secure and encrypted. To finalize your 11-Day Peru Adventure, please complete your deposit or full payment using the secure link below:

[SECURE PAYMENT LINK] Important: Availability for Machu Picchu and the Inca Rail/PeruRail services is highly restricted. We cannot secure your permits until the payment is successfully confirmed.

Travel Documents & Local Support

Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a comprehensive travel voucher and a detailed digital briefing. These documents include your final pick-up schedule for every stage of the tour, a specialized technical packing list for the Inca Jungle and Rainbow Mountain, and 24/7 emergency contact details. Our professional team based in Cusco and Lima will be in constant communication with you before and during your trip to ensure a smooth, safe, and unforgettable Peruvian experience.

Student Rates

OBTAINING A STUDENT DISCOUNT FOR YOUR MACHU PICCHU TRIP

Peru’s government provides reduced Machu Picchu entry fees for students, and we pass these savings directly into our tour prices. To qualify for this discount, the following requirements must be met:

1. Age Limit: You must be younger than 25 at the time of your visit. This policy applies strictly to undergraduate degree students.
2. Card Material and Format: Your university ID must be a physical plastic card (similar to a credit card) with all details officially printed. Paper cards, handwritten info, or stickers added to the card are strictly prohibited.
3. Required Details: The ID needs to prominently display the university name, your personal information, a clear photo, and an expiration date valid for the year of travel. For example, if traveling in 2026, the card must be currently active and not expire before the end of the year.
4. ISIC Limitations: Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is widely used worldwide, the Peruvian authorities do not accept it for Machu Picchu discounts. Only your official university-issued ID is valid.

Because the Peruvian government strictly enforces these discount rules, you are required to present your qualifying student ID at the Machu Picchu checkpoints. Failure to meet these exact standards may result in having to pay the full adult ticket price or potentially being denied entry if tickets are sold out. Therefore, please verify your student card meets all criteria before finalizing your reservation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How safe is this tour?

Passenger safety is our highest priority. We operate with professional safety equipment and carefully selected routes, and you will always be accompanied by our experienced guides. Our team is trained to manage logistics, provide assistance, and ensure that every activity is conducted under strict safety protocols. You can travel with confidence knowing you are in good hands.

How difficult is this experience?

This tour is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. Daily walking times are manageable, and the itinerary is designed to balance activity with comfort. Accommodations, proper rest periods, and support from our guides help make the experience accessible and enjoyable.

What does the difficulty rating mean?

Each tour is assigned a difficulty level based on terrain, duration, and traveler feedback. Our classification system helps guests choose an experience that matches their expectations and physical condition.
Difficulty scale:
Easy-Moderate-Challenging-Difficult

Do I need to bring extra money?

We recommend carrying a small amount of cash for personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, souvenirs, optional services, or minor purchases along the route. While many services are arranged in advance, having some local currency provides flexibility and convenience.

When is the best time to travel?

Weather conditions are generally more stable during the dry season, typically from May to October. These months offer clearer skies and more predictable conditions, enhancing visibility and overall comfort.
Traveling close to the rainy season (April and November) may provide greener landscapes and increased chances of observing wildlife. Each season offers a unique perspective of the region, including spectacular views near the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

What if I have a medical condition?

If you have any medical concerns, it is important to inform us before your trip. This allows our team to provide appropriate recommendations and consider any necessary adjustments. Guests with ongoing conditions should consult their physician prior to travel to ensure the experience is suitable for them.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Absolutely. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and other dietary needs. Please notify us at the time of booking so arrangements can be made accordingly.

What kind of wildlife might I see?

Depending on the season and environmental conditions, travelers may observe birds, butterflies, and various native species. The region’s biodiversity is remarkable, and we encourage respectful observation without disturbing natural habitats. Binoculars are recommended for a better viewing experience.

Where will I stay during the tour?

Accommodations are arranged in comfortable local hotels or guesthouses. These locations provide proper rest, shower facilities, and a relaxing environment after each day’s activities. 

Will I have internet access?

Connectivity may vary depending on location. Certain areas may have limited or no signal due to the remote nature of the route. Many travelers appreciate this as an opportunity to disconnect and fully enjoy the landscapes. We recommend bringing a camera to capture the scenery.