The itinerary that was made for us to include all of the areas that we wanted to visit was excellent, you did a great job in fitting a lot into a 3 week period....... There was no one stand out highlight of our trip as we enjoyed every place we visited and they were all individually exciting and quite different. If we had to pick one it would be a toss up between Easter Island and Machu Picchu. Thank you for all of the organization that went into our trip, we did not have to worry about any aspect other than to turn up at the allotted time and someone would look after every detail for us.
Many Thanks
This trek is for those who want to get out off the beaten track but still want to see Machu Picchu. This trek will give you an insight into authentic communities, whilst being surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes and valley landscapes.
Day 1 has an early departure from Cusco for the town of Calca. From here you start a leisurely half-day hike up the valley of the rushing Trapiche River. Tonight’s camping is in Huacahuasi (3600m) which is an authentic Andean community located in an impressive valley.
On day 2 at an altitude of 4500m you cross the pass of Ipsayccasa. The pass offers breathtaking views of Mount Veronica (5750m) and its surrounding snow-capped peaks. After descending to Ipsaycocha we journey through the heartland of these Quechua people, before reaching the village of Patacancha, a well known community that still preserves ancient Quechua traditions. The campsite will be nearby.
On day 3, transport takes you down the valley to Pallata where you can see the Inca ruins of the early-Inca site of Pumamarca (Puma town). After arriving in Ollantaytambo you will take the train to Aguas Calientes. Tonight you will have hotel accommodation in this small quaint town.
On day 4 you take a bus up to Machu Picchu where you have a 2 hour guided tour, before some free time to further explore the site. Finally it´s time to head back to Cusco by train.