Expedition Itinerary
This Expedition begins at Explora Valle Sagrado, where we gather at noon on the first day to meet and prepare for the adventure ahead. Over the following five days, the itinerary takes you along ancient Inca paths, through breathtaking archaeological sites, and into awe-inspiring natural landscapes. You’ll connect with the Sacred Mountains of the Incas, culminating in an unforgettable arrival at the world-renowned sanctuary of Machu Picchu, entering through the iconic Intipunku Sun Gate.
Day 1: The Adventure Begins
Arrive at Cusco Airport, where you are transported to Explora Valle Sagrado. Gather to meet with fellow travelers, your guide, and the Expedition Leader for an introductory talk about the exciting journey ahead. Enjoy lunch at the lodge with your group, featuring a specially crafted menu by world renowned chef Virgilio Martínez. Later, embark on your first Exploration with an overland journey to Chinchero and a 2.9-mile hike (4.6 km). Visit the archaeological site of Machu Kolka and hike through picturesque crop fields, offering stunning views of the pampas, Urquillos valley, and surrounding, snow-capped mountains.
Hike of the day: 4.6 kms/2.9 mi | Altitude: 3,933 masl/12,979 feet |Elevation gain: 235 m/776 f
Accommodation: Explora Valle Sagrado
Day 2: Journey to Ancient Wata
Embark on a full day of discovery with a 6.1-mile hike (9.7 km) on the ancient Inca Qapac Ñam trail. Explore the archeological site of Wata and its pre-Incan ceremonial center, perched atop the mountain and offering spectacular views of the surrounding range. This afternoon, gather to review our equipment as well as the details for the next stage of our Expedition.
Hike of the day: 9.7 kms/6.1 mi | Altitude: 3,820 masl/12,606 feet | Elevation gain: 536 m/1.769 ft
Accommodation: Explora Valle Sagrado
Day 3: Misquiyaco Private Conservation Area
This morning, journey by van over the Anta pampa, a fertile plateau home to local agricultural practices. Arrive at the Misquiyaco Private Conservation Area and enjoy exclusive Explora-only access to this protected buffer zone to Machu Picchu, rich with flora and fauna. Meet with camp staff and muleteers before commencing a 4.8 mile hike (7.7 km) through the Sacred Mountains of the Incas. The hike initiates in a relict Mesoandean forest, gradually ascending beyond the tree line. After a lunch stop, continue across high grasslands to our first tented campsite, where a warm dinner and hot shower await.
Hike of the day: 7.7 kms/4.8 mi | Altitude: 4,297 masl/14,180 feet | Elevation gain: 1,139 m/3,759 feet
Accommodation: Private Tented Camp
Day 4: Salkantay & Humantay Mountains
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the dining tent before embarking along the edges of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Today’s 7.6-mile trek (12.1 km) offers breathtaking vistas of the majestic Salkantay and Humantay mountains, with Ausangate visible on the horizon. After a gradual descent and stop for lunch, continue to the Willke Valley, where our next camp awaits. Relax before dinner and choose to enjoy a recovery massage, one of two included throughout your hiking days. Tonight, your guide hosts a stargazing session, sharing stories about the Andean worldview and its connection to the cosmos.
Hike of the day: 12.1 km/ 7.6 mi | Altitude: 4,664 masl/15,391 feet| Elevation gain: 913 m/3,013 feet
Accommodation: Private Tented Camp
Day 5: Salkantay Mountain & Huayanay Glacier
Stunning views of Salkantay Mountain greet us in the morning. Enjoy breakfast before embarking on our 7.2-mile hike (11.5 km). Along the way, traverse valleys where you may witness local grazing activities. After a stop to rest and enjoy lunch, your hike continues as the Huayanay Glacier gradually comes into view. Our third campsite at Inkarakay awaits at the base of this majestic mountain. Enjoy the opportunity to indulge in another recovery massage before concluding the day with a healthy dinner prepared by our chef.
Hike of the day: 11.5 km/7.2 mi | Altitude: 4,683 masl/15,454 feet | Elevation gain: 987 m/3,257 ft
Accommodation: Private Tented Camp
Day 6: Descent to the Valley
After breakfast at the foot of Huayanay Mountain, journey on a 11.3-mile hike (18.1 km) towards Kamicancha, descending in altitude as the landscape gradually transforms. Along the way, pause at a picturesque lagoon and pass through a small settlement where you observe agricultural and grazing activities. Continuing through the valley, enjoy incredible views of Nevado Verónica Mountain in the distance. Upon reaching Kamicancha, our staff and camps welcome you with a buffet lunch featuring local fare. Here, take the opportunity to relax in the afternoon and enjoy the nearby river.
Hike of the day: 18.1 km/11.3 mi | Altitude: 4,625 m/15,263 feet | Elevation gain: 509 masl/1,680 feet
Accommodation: Private Tented Camp
Day 7 – Towards Machu Picchu
After breakfast, depart our campsite by van to board a train to Ollantaytambo. On arrival, begin your 8.1-mile hike (12.9 km) along an ancient Inca trail towards Machu Picchu. Along the way, visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. Continuing along slopes adorned with dense vegetation and various species of orchids, arrive at Inti Punku, the Sun Gate and iconic entrance to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. After exploring a portion of the site, descend to Machu Picchu Pueblo and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Spend the night at a comfortable hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Hike of the day: 12.9 km/8.1 mi | Altitude: 2,717 masl/8,966 feet | Elevation gain: 861 m/2841 feet
Accommodation: : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Day 8 – Machu Picchu Sanctuary
The next day, travel by van to another area of Machu Picchu sanctuary. Led by our expert guide, hike 1.9 miles (3.0 km) and learn about the fascinating history of this site, with opportunities to relax and enjoy this amazing place. Huayna Picchu is also an option for those seeking another adventure during the day. Later, descend to Machu Picchu Pueblo to take the train back to Ollantaytambo. Return to Explora Valle Sagrado for our farewell dinner and to celebrate this inspiring journey together.
Hike of the day: 3.0 km/1.9 mi | Altitude: 2.900 masl/9.570 feet
Accommodation: Explora Valle Sagrado
Day 9: Returning Home
After breakfast, depart from Explora Valle Sagrado by 10:00 AM and transfer to the Cusco Airport for your return flight home.
