This 5-day tour combines adventure, nature, and history, taking you from Cusco to Machu Picchu through various exciting activities and breathtaking landscapes.
We start with a trip to Abra Málaga (4,350 m.a.s.l.), where we begin an exciting bike descent for about 55 km, crossing a climate change from snow-capped mountains to the tropical jungle. Then, in Santa Maria (1,200 m.a.s.l.), you’ll have the option to go rafting on the Vilcanota River (category III and III+).
The next day, in Lucmabamba, you can participate in the coffee experience, where you’ll learn about its cultivation and production. For the more adventurous, there is the option to do a zip line. Then, we begin a hike on an original section of the Inca Trail, ascending to Llactapata, where we’ll have a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the snow-capped Salkantay.
We continue with a descent to the Hydroelectric Station, enjoying spectacular views of the jungle. On the way, we visit Intihuatana, an Inca archaeological site related to astronomy. Finally, we arrive in Aguas Calientes, where we prepare for the most awaited day.
The journey culminates with a hike on the Short Inca Trail, starting at Chachabamba (2,250 m.a.s.l.) and ascending to Wiñaywayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the trail. From the Sun Gate (Intipunku), we will have our first view of Machu Picchu, an unforgettable moment.
This trip offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture, and spectacular landscapes, making it a unique experience before reaching the magical Machu Picchu citadel.
This 5-day tour begins with an exciting day of cycling and rafting in the Sacred Valley. Next, you will continue with a hike to Llactapata, enjoying stunning views and activities such as ziplining and coffee in Lucmabamba. On the third day, the trekking continues towards Aguas Calientes, passing through spectacular landscapes and archaeological sites like Intihuatana. On the fourth day, you will explore the famous Inca Trail Short, visiting Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna before reaching the Sun Gate, where you will have an incredible view of Machu Picchu. On the last day, you will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with time to explore its wonders or hike up to Huayna Picchu, completing an unforgettable experience.
Cycling into the jungle: biking, rafting, and local culture in Santa María
The first day of the trip begins early. At 6:00 a.m., we depart from Cusco towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Before starting the adventure, we enjoy a buffet breakfast at Lorenzo Lodge Cusco.
Next, we continue by bus to Abra Málaga, a mountain pass located at 4,350 meters above sea level. This is where the bike experience begins. Our guide will give a brief safety talk and provide all the necessary equipment.
The bike ride is approximately three hours (55 km) towards Huamanmarca. Along the way, we cross various landscapes, from the imposing snow-capped mountains to the lush tropical jungle where the Peruvian Amazon begins. You’ll experience a gradual climate change, from cold temperatures to a warmer and more humid environment. There will be strategic stops for rest and equipment checks along the way.
Upon arrival in the town of Santa Maria (1,200 m.a.s.l.), a comforting lunch is served before continuing with the next optional activity.
In the afternoon, there is an option to go rafting on the Vilcanota River ($40 per person). This river has Class III and III+ rapids, providing a safe and exciting experience. To ensure the safety of participants, specialized equipment is provided, including helmets, life jackets, and protective suits.
It’s important to note that this activity is available only between April and December, and according to Peruvian regulations, it is mandatory to know how to swim in order to participate.
The first night is spent in a typical local lodge, where a dinner prepared by local families is served. As part of Lorenzo Expeditions’ commitment to responsible tourism, we directly support local communities, such as the Bernal and Tumpay families, promoting their economic development and strengthening sustainable tourism.
Summary of the Day
A day full of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.
Coffee experience, ziplining, and Inca trails: adventure and unforgettable views to Machu Picchu
The second day begins with a nutritious breakfast, perfect for recharging energy before a day full of adventure. Then, we travel by vehicle for approximately one and a half hours to Lucmabamba, a small town surrounded by coffee plantations.
In Lucmabamba, we will have the opportunity to experience the coffee experience, where we will learn about the cultivation and production process of one of the region’s most iconic products.
For adrenaline seekers, there is an option to do a zip line ($40 per person). This activity allows you to glide along steel cables suspended in the air, enjoying a spectacular view of the cloud forest.
After lunch, we will begin a hike of approximately three hours along an original section of the Inca Trail. Along the way, we will make strategic stops to learn more about the local flora and fauna, while gradually ascending to the mountain’s peak.
At this point, our guide will share information about the Inca history, explaining their advanced communication system and the importance of the roads that connected their vast empire.
Upon reaching the archaeological site of Llactapata, we will enjoy one of the most impressive views of Machu Picchu. From this natural viewpoint, you can also admire in the distance the majestic snow-capped Salkantay, one of the most sacred mountains of the Incas.
After the hike, we will descend to our accommodation, where a home-cooked dinner prepared by local families awaits us. This type of lodging not only offers comfort but also directly supports local communities, promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.
Summary of the Day:
A perfect day to combine adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
From Llactapata to Aguas Calientes: a journey through history and nature
The third day begins with a delicious breakfast, preparing us for a hike full of stunning landscapes.
We will start the trek with a descent of approximately 3 hours on trails surrounded by vegetation and panoramic views of the jungle. As we descend, we will feel the climate become warmer and more humid, gradually approaching the lower zone of Machu Picchu.
Upon reaching the hydroelectric station, we will pass through the government control point, the entry to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Here, we will begin our walk towards the town of Aguas Calientes, enjoying the beautiful landscape along the route.
Along the way, we will stop at the Intihuatana area, a small but important Inca archaeological site. Our guide will explain the significance of this place and its connection with Inca astronomy and timekeeping.
Further ahead, we will arrive at San Gabriel, where a delicious lunch prepared by a local family awaits us. From this point, we will have a privileged view of the Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountains, appreciating them from a different angle before reaching the town.
After approximately 6 hours of hiking, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, the town that serves as a base for visiting Machu Picchu. Here, we will stay in a comfortable hotel where we can rest and prepare for the big day.
In the evening, we will enjoy a special farewell dinner, where our guide will share important details about the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Summary of the Day:
A day of connection with nature and history, bringing us closer and closer to the mystical city of Machu Picchu.
Exploring Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu: A day between ruins, mountains, and mysticism
The fourth day will immerse us in a unique hike, traversing the legendary Short Inca Trail, passing impressive archaeological sites, and enjoying spectacular views before reaching Machu Picchu.
After a good breakfast, we will head to kilometer 104, where our hike will begin. The first stop will be Chachabamba, an Inca archaeological site located at 2,250 m.a.s.l. Here, our guide will tell us about the history and importance of this place in the network of Inca trails.
We will continue our ascent until we reach Wiñay Wayna, the second archaeological site of the day. Its name means “Forever Young” in Quechua, and it is one of the most impressive places on the Inca Trail, with agricultural terraces, temples, and perfectly preserved Inca structures.
Along the way, we will enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River and be amazed by the diversity of flora and fauna in this protected area, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
After a Box Lunch, we will continue our hike to the famous Sun Gate (Intipunku). From this point, we will have our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, an exciting experience and a perfect moment to take photographs.
After a brief pause to enjoy the landscape and hear an explanation from our guide, we will begin the descent to the Inca citadel. Here, we will have the opportunity to watch the sunset over Machu Picchu, an unforgettable natural spectacle.
After this magical experience, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where we will stay in a comfortable hotel.
In the evening, we will enjoy a delicious dinner, and our guide will give us the final details about the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Summary of the Day:
A day filled with history, nature, and the excitement of seeing Machu Picchu for the first time from above.
Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas: Where history, spirit, and mountain meet
Our last day of adventure will take us to discover the majestic Machu Picchu citadel, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the most anticipated destination of our trip.
We will have two options to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu:
Upon entering the archaeological site, we will take a guided tour where we will explore the most important temples and structures, including:
Our guide will tell us about the history, significance, and mysteries surrounding this legendary Inca city.
After the tour, we will have free time to continue exploring Machu Picchu at our own pace. Those who have reserved in advance can hike one of the following mountains:
Important: Reservations for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be made at least 3 months in advance, as capacity is limited to 200 people per day.
We also recommend taking this time to relax, meditate, and connect with the spiritual energy of this sacred place.
After this unforgettable experience, we will descend to Aguas Calientes, where we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, we will take transport back to Cusco, concluding our incredible adventure.
Summary of the Day:
A day filled with history, culture, and magic in the sacred city of the Incas.
US$779
US$860
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My fiancée and I did the 5-day trip that included Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. It was amazing!! Our tour guide, Wilbert, was so knowledgeable and took care of everything…
We did a five day tour with Lorenzo and had multiple amazing guides. Bryan took us on a day trip to Rainbow Mountain and it was amazing! His car was clean and comfortable and he was...
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Lorenzo and his agency were very attentive on our trip. I would especially like to praise the guide Abel who took us to Laguna Humantay and Montan̈a 7 Colores...
Excellent travel agency, especially the work done by the guide Wilbert! He guided us for two days on an unforgettable trip from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, showing great care and attention in...
