Explore Southern Peru & Conquer the Salkantay Trek - 15 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Lima, Explore the Capital at Leisure

Welcome to Lima, Peru's bustling capital on the Pacific coast. Meet your driver at the airport and transfer to your hotel in the upscale district of Miraflores or San Isidro. After checking in and freshening up, venture out to explore the city at your own pace. A good place to start is the Larco Museum, housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building. Peruse the extensive collection of over 45,000 artifacts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry from ancient civilizations such as the Moche and Nazca. 

When darkness falls, make your way to Parque de la Reserva to see the Magic Water Circuit. Watch as over a dozen fountains come to life with colorful lights and choreographed music. The highlight is the Grand Fountain, which shoots water up to 262 feet (80 m) high. After the show, visit a local restaurant to indulge in Peruvian delights like lomo saltado (Peruvian stir-fry), aji de gallina (shredded chicken in a spicy sauce served with rice and potatoes), or anticuchos (skewered and grilled beef heart).

Day 2: Half-Day City Tour, Evening Food Tour

Join your guide on a tour of the capital, starting at Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe pyramid built in the pre-Inca period around 500 CE. Then, pass through the bustling neighborhoods of San Isidro, Lince, and Cercado to reach Plaza Mayor de Lima. Wander the grand square surrounded by landmarks like the Government Palace of Peru, Lima Cathedral, and Archbishop's Palace of Lima. After snapping some photos of the square, visit the nearby Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, a 17th-century Baroque church famed for its striking yellow facade and richly decorated interiors.

Admire the intricate woodwork, frescoes, and religious art inside the church, and visit the eerie catacombs beneath it, where thousands of human bones are arranged in geometric patterns within a series of underground passages. End the city tour at the Malecón de Miraflores, a scenic cliffside walkway offering panoramic views of the Parque del Amor, glittering Pacific Ocean, and Larcomar, an open-air shopping and entertainment complex. In the evening, immerse yourself in the city's rich culinary scene on a five-hour food tour, beginning with a beachfront cocktail and seaside bites at sunset. 

 

Then, continue to Restaurante Huaca Pucllana for fine Peruvian cuisine and spectacular views of pre-Inca ruins. At your last stop in the colorful bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, indulge your taste buds in a local chef's signature dish and a delectable Peruvian dessert like suspiro a la limeña (layers of manjar blanco, which is similar to dulce de leche, topped with a light meringue made from port wine). End the night with a stroll along the cobbled streets to take in the colorful buildings and lively street art before returning to your hotel.

Day 3: Fly to Cusco, Private Walking Tour

Say goodbye to Lima and transfer to the airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. When you arrive, transfer to your hotel to check in and prepare for a private three-hour walking tour. Follow your guide to the Museo de Arte Precolombino, housed in a beautifully restored colonial building. Browse the impressive collection of artifacts from various pre-Columbian cultures, including textiles, ceramics, and metalwork that date back thousands of years. As you wander through the exhibits, you'll learn about the daily lives, beliefs, and rituals of these ancient civilizations. 

Continue to Plaza Mayor de Cusco, where you'll see the impressive Cusco Cathedral and a statue of Túpac Amaru II. Learn about the leader of the largest uprising in colonial Spanish-American history before ending your tour at Qorikancha—the Temple of the Sun, dedicated to the Inca sun god, Inti. Today, the site is home to the Santo Domingo Convent, built atop the temple's foundations by Spanish colonizers, thus creating a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture. Take in the sweeping views of Cusco from the surrounding gardens before returning to your hotel.

Day 4: Guided Tour of Sacsayhuamán, Awana Kancha & Pisac

Leave the city behind for the day to explore its ancient surroundings on a guided tour. Begin at Sacsayhuamán, a 15th-century Inca fortress. As you wander through the extensive complex, you'll discover the remnants of ceremonial platforms, temples, and colossal stone walls. Continue to Awana Kancha, a cultural center and llama sanctuary where you'll see skilled artisans demonstrate their traditional weaving techniques. While there, you can interact with friendly llamas and alpacas and learn about their importance in Andean agriculture and daily life.

Then, make a short stop at Mirador Taray for panoramic views of the Sacred Valley on the way to the town of Pisac, situated along the Río Vilcanota. Sit down for lunch at Hacienda Sarapampa, a family-run farm dedicated to the traditional farming of giant white corn. Afterward, explore the Pisac Archaeological Park to see the well-preserved ancient Inca burial grounds, irrigation systems, and astronomy centers. End your day at the Pisac Market to shop for souvenirs among the wide array of colorful textiles and traditional crafts handmade by local artisans.

Day 5: Quad Bike Tour to Moray & the Salt Mines of Maras

Start your day trip with a two-hour transfer to the village of Cruzpata for a quad bike adventure. Learn how to use the quad bike and safety equipment, then hop on and follow your guide to Moray. Explore the archaeological site featuring massive, concentric terraces arranged in circular depressions, resembling a natural amphitheater. Each terrace level holds a distinct microclimate, which the Incas are believed to have used to test and adapt crops at various altitudes.

Back on the bike, make your way to the entrance of the Salt Mines of Maras. Leave your quad bike behind and continue on foot for 10 minutes for an up-close look at the salt pans that have been operational since pre-Inca times. Marvel at the thousands of small, terraced salt pools covering the mountainside and watch local workers harvest the salt by hand. Then, have lunch at a remote restaurant overlooking the snowcapped mountains of the Sacred Valley. Afterward, return to Cruzpata and drop off your quad bike before transferring back to Cusco for a free evening. 

Day 6: Start the Salkantay Trek, Visit Laguna Humantay

Get ready for an early wake-up call this morning as you set off at 5:30 am for a three-hour transfer to Challacancha. This quaint village is the starting point for the 46-mile (74 km) Salkantay Trek, a four-day alternative to the traditional Inca Trail to reach the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. Meet the mule drivers and the rest of your group, then start today's 6.2-mile (10 km) hike. Begin by following your guide down the winding trail through lush valleys and along a picturesque irrigation canal known as the Inca Canal, stopping for snacks and lunch along the way.

As the trail ascends, sweeping views of snowcapped mountains, including Humantay and Salkantay, come into view. After six hours of walking, you'll reach your campsite in Soraypampa, a broad, grassy valley set at 12,795 feet (3,900 m) surrounded by towering peaks. Take a break for lunch before visiting the glacial Laguna Humantay. Admire the lake's blue-green waters set against the backdrop of rugged peaks and consider leaving offerings to Pachamama, or Mother Earth, to show respect to the sacred landscape. Then, return to your campsite for dinner and some much-deserved rest in your glass dome accommodation.

Day 7: Trek to the Salkantay Pass & Collpapampa

After a nourishing breakfast, leave for the Salkantay Pass, 15,092 feet (4,600 m) in altitude, which offers panoramic views of the mountains, glacial lakes, and valleys below. Then, start the descent to your campsite, enjoying the warmer air and greenery dotted with wildflowers. Be sure to apply your bug spray, as the warmer weather attracts mosquitoes. Wildlife you may see along the way includes llamas, vizcachas, and Andean foxes. Once you've completed the 5.6-mile (9 km) trek in approximately eight hours, you'll arrive at your glass dome camp in Collpapampa, nestled in the rainforest. 

Day 8: Trek to Wiñaypoco & Lucmabamba, Tour a Coffee Plantation

The third day of your trek is devoted to the lush flora of the region as you follow your guide through the misty forest. Keep an eye out for species of orchids, bromeliads, bomareas, and ferns dotting the landscape. Stop in Wiñaypoco and Lucmabamba to meet local families and enjoy a delicious lunch. Then, visit a coffee plantation to learn about the artisanal coffee-making process and sample some of the region's best brews. Thank the locals for their warm welcome before completing today's 5.6-mile (9 km) trek to Machu Picchu Lodge at approximately 2 pm and settling into your dome campsite.

Day 9: Trek to Llactapata, Train to Aguas Calientes

Today's 5.6-mile (9 km) hike takes you to Llactapata, an ancient Inca site offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Machu Picchu in the distance. As you explore the archaeological site, you'll see the impressive terraced ruins that once supported agricultural activities. Continue to a hydroelectric station in Santa Teresa, where you can celebrate completing your hike and board a train to Aguas Calientes, a lively and bustling town known for its hot springs. Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to rest or explore the town at your own pace.

If you want to unwind, visit the Termas de Aguas Calientes, which features several thermal pools with varying temperatures surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic mountain views. Those who want to learn about the UNESCO World Heritage site you'll visit tomorrow can head to the Machu Picchu Museum. Peruse the exhibits showcasing the history, culture, and archaeological findings related to the site and the ongoing conservation efforts to preserve Machu Picchu for future generations. After exploring the exhibits, enjoy the peaceful garden before visiting a local restaurant for dinner.

Day 10: Visit Machu Picchu, Train to Cusco

Leave the hotel at 5:30 am to reach Machu Picchu by bus before it gets too busy. As you pass through the entrance, you'll see the well-preserved ruins of the ancient citadel, with the imposing Huayna Picchu looming in the background. Follow your guide past the impressive agricultural terraces and ceremonial spaces while you learn about the Inca's advanced engineering techniques, spiritual beliefs, and uses for each structure. Following the two-hour tour, you'll have free time to explore more of the site at your own pace.

Visit landmarks like the Temple of the Sun, believed to have been used for astronomical observations and religious ceremonies, or the Inca Bridge, built directly into the cliffs. Other highlights include the stone carvings of the condor and the llama, the Temple of the Three Windows, symbolizing the three worlds in Inca cosmology, and the main plaza that was used for gatherings and ceremonies. After exploring the iconic site, return to Aguas Calientes by bus, where you'll have free time to relax in a hot spring or explore before boarding a four-hour train back to Cusco.

Day 11: Fly to Arequipa, Half-Day City Tour

Following a restful night in Cusco, you'll return to the airport for a one-hour flight to Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its white volcanic stone structures. When you arrive, transfer to your hotel to check in and relax until this afternoon's city tour. Start with a walk through the 16th-century Monasterio de Santa Catalina, renowned for its striking blue and red walls, intricate courtyards, and tranquil gardens. Continue to Iglesia de La Compañía, carved from volcanic sillar stone that glows beautifully in the sunlight. 

After exploring the colorful Cúpula of Saint Ignacio, a small chapel attached to the church, head to Plaza de Armas to admire the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa. Built in the 17th century and restored several times due to earthquakes, this cathedral is one of Peru's largest and most impressive examples of colonial architecture. End the half-day tour in the traditional district of Yanahuara, where you can stroll through the picturesque Plaza de Yanahuara and enjoy views of the city framed by the dormant Misti volcano in the distance. 

Day 12: Visit the Cantera de Añashuayco, Walking Food Tour 

Spend another day exploring Arequipa with a guide, starting at the Cantera de Añashuayco, a quarry known for its high-quality sillar. This white volcanic stone has been used extensively in the city's architecture, including in the cathedral and many old mansions. Learn about the traditional extraction process and visit the on-site shop to purchase handcrafted souvenirs made from sillar. Then, head to the Mercado San Camilo to start your four-hour food tour. Peruse the array of colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and traditional Peruvian ingredients.

Continue to the historic center, stopping to try local specialties like anticuchos (grilled skewered meat), cuy chactado (fried guinea pig), chicha (fermented corn drink), and pisco (brandy made from distilled grapes). Learn about the origins of various dishes and the traditional cooking methods of Arequipean cuisine from your guide and the friendly vendors. Your next stop is the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, like Chachani and Pichu Pichu. After savoring over 17 Peruvian foods and drinks, return to the hotel with a full stomach.

Day 13: Transfer to Colca Canyon via Mirador de Los Andes

Trade the White City for one of the world's deepest canyons this morning as you set off on a four-hour transfer to Colca Canyon. The scenic journey begins with a gradual climb to Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca, a protected reserve spanning vast plains, salt flats, and wetlands. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like vicuñas (small wild llamas), alpacas, and viscachas (chinchilla-like rodents) dotting the landscape. Continue to the highest point of your journey, Patapampa Pass, at 15,300 feet (4,820 m) above sea level.

Here, you'll stop at Mirador de Los Andes for far-reaching views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks and volcanoes, including Hualca Hualca, Ampato, and Sabancaya. Enjoy lunch en route before stopping at Sumbay Caves to admire paleolithic-era paintings depicting human figures, animals, and scenes of daily life. Then, descend to the town of Chivay, where you'll see pre-Inca agricultural terraces and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the hotel's amenities, explore a bit on your own, or unwind in one of the area's natural hot springs, such as La Calera.

Day 14: Visit Mirador Cruz del Condor, Transfer to Arequipa

Early this morning, you'll meet your guide and transfer to Mirador Cruz del Condor, one of the most popular viewpoints overlooking the canyon. It's also the best place to see the majestic Andean condor in flight as they soar on the thermal currents rising from the canyon. Watch these giant birds, with wingspans reaching up to 10 feet (3 m), take flight and glide gracefully on the warm air streams. Beyond the condors, the viewpoint offers sweeping views of terraced fields and remote villages tucked into the canyon walls.

Return to Chivay for lunch before starting the four-hour transfer back to Arequipa for a free evening. You could relax at the hotel or head back to Plaza de Armas for an authentic Peruvian dinner. Indulge in local delights like adobo Arequipeño (pork stew marinated in chicha) or chupe de camarones (creamy shrimp chowder). End the night with a sweet treat of queso helado (cinnamon and coconut-flavored ice cream) or a colorful cocktail, like a pisco sour (made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters).

Day 15: Depart Arequipa

Although you're departing Peru today, you may have some time to explore more of Arequipa on your own before your flight. You could shop for last-minute souvenirs in a local market, such as Mercado de Artesanías, or head to the Museo Santuarios Andinos, housed in a beautifully restored colonial building. There, you can visit the mummified remains of Juanita, a young Inca girl who was sacrificed over 500 years ago. When it's time, return to the hotel to meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your flight home with a possible layover in Lima. Safe travels!