The Ultimate Peru Odyssey: Rainforest, Andes & Lost Inca Wonders

We warmly welcome you to embark on our unforgettable 11-day Amazon and Machu Picchu adventure – a journey that plunges you into Peru’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes.

Feel the humid, earthy embrace of the Amazon rainforest, breathe in the crisp, thin air of the towering Andes, and stand in awe before ancient stone wonders that whisper stories of an empire long past.

From the vibrant chaos of bustling markets and the symphony of jungle sounds to the majestic silence of snow-capped peaks and the golden sunrise over Machu Picchu, this trip will awaken all your senses and leave you profoundly transformed.

Action Peru Treks takes care of every detail – seamless transportation, cozy accommodations, and delicious local meals – so you can fully immerse yourself in the magic.

You are about to embark on the most epic, soul-stirring adventure through Peru’s greatest highlights. We can’t wait to welcome you!

ITINERARY

Day 1: Welcome to Lima – Pick up at the airport

You are welcome to schedule your arrival in Lima at any time.

There are no planned activities today, so check into your hotel and relax after your long journey.

Spend some time exploring this vibrant city, where the salty Pacific breeze mixes with the aroma of fresh ceviche and the lively energy of street musicians fills the air.

• Meals: None
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Hotel Miraflores or similar
• Lima Altitude: Sea level

Day 2: Lima City Tour

This tour brings Lima’s three historical periods – pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern – to life.

Wander through sun-drenched plazas as colonial church bells echo around you, admire over fifty monuments and ornate buildings, including the grand Main Square, Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, Cathedral, and Municipal Palace.

Feel the smooth ancient stones beneath your feet while soaking in the colorful fusion of cultures in the traditional residential areas.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Hotel Miraflores or similar
• Lima Altitude: Sea level

Day 3: Arrival in Puerto Maldonado & Lake Yacumama

Meet your transfer to the airport for an early flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon rainforest.

Upon arrival, a representative will meet you at the airport and accompany you to the port for your transfer by river-boat to your jungle lodge.

As you leave the city behind, you’ll be enveloped by the lush, living rainforest.

Feel the warm, humid air on your skin, smell the rich earth and blooming flowers, and listen to the chorus of birds and distant howler monkeys as the jungle canopy towers overhead along the Tambopata River.

Upon arrival at the lodge enjoy lunch around 13:00.

Time to settle in and begin connecting with the natural surroundings of the Tambopata River.

15:00 – 18:30 Lake Yacumama

Departure to Lake Yacumama, a peaceful ecosystem surrounded by Amazon rainforest.

During the visit, you will enjoy birdwatching, interpretation of the natural environment, and traditional piranha fishing.

As the afternoon progresses, the lake offers a beautiful setting to observe the landscape and wildlife activity along the water as the golden light dances on the still surface.

19:30 – Dinner at the lodge

Note: Flight must arrive in Puerto Maldonado before 12:00 PM.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Eco Lodge at the Amazon
• Amazon Altitude: 183 m/600 ft.

Day 4: Lake Sandoval & Night Walk

05:00 – 13:00 Lake Sandoval.

Early departure to Lake Sandoval, located within the Tambopata National Reserve.

The excursion combines navigation along the Madre de Dios River, a walk through tropical forest where the air is thick with the scent of wet leaves and flowers, and a serene canoe exploration across the lake.

During the visit it is possible to observe playful monkeys swinging through the canopy, colorful water birds, caimans gliding silently, and, with some luck, the graceful giant river otters.

Breakfast during the excursion.

13:00 – Lunch at the lodge

15:30 – 17:00 Kayaking on the Tambopata River.

A peaceful activity that allows you to explore the river while observing birds and the surrounding rainforest from a unique perspective, feeling the gentle current beneath you.

18:30 – 19:30 Night Walk Guided exploration along trails near the lodge to discover the nocturnal life of the rainforest, including glowing insects, amphibians, and other creatures that emerge after sunset, as the jungle comes alive with mysterious sounds and shadows.

19:30 – Dinner at the lodge

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Eco Lodge at the Amazon
• Amazon altitude: 183 m/600 ft.
• Approximate walking time: 5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 5: Sotupa Clay Lick & Departure

06:00 – 07:30 Sotupa Clay Lick.

Birdwatching experience in front of the lodge.

Different species of parrots and macaws gather here to feed on mineral-rich clay, offering one of the Amazon’s most fascinating natural spectacles as their vibrant feathers flash in the morning sun and their loud calls fill the air.

07:30 – Breakfast at the lodge

10:00 – Check-out and time to say goodbye to the jungle as you make your way back to town and the airport for your flight to Cusco, the heart of the Incan Empire.

Upon arrival at the Cusco airport, our representative will meet you for the drive to the historic center.

On the way, spot examples of the fusion of Spanish colonial architecture constructed upon the remains of ancient Incan palaces and temples.

Feel the crisp, high-altitude air and the weight of history around you.

The city is at a high altitude, so you may spend the remainder of the day taking it easy as you acclimatize overnight in Cusco.

A top tip would be to drink lots of water and of course the famous Coca-tea, readily provided at the hotel – its warm, earthy flavor is the perfect welcome.

• Meals: Breakfast (no other meals included on this day)
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Hotel or similar
• Highest Elevation: 3,400 m/11,154 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 6: Cusco – Chinchero – Maras – Moray – Ollantaytambo

Leaving Cusco behind, you head into the breathtaking Sacred Valley, where the air carries the scent of eucalyptus and fertile earth.

Visit the living Inca town of Chinchero with its masterful stonework and vibrant weaving traditions.

Continue to the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, an ancient agricultural wonder, and the sparkling Maras Salt Mines, where mineral-rich water trickles down salt-crusted terraces.

End the day at the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo, with its massive stone walls glowing at sunset.

You will stop for lunch on route (not included) near Urubamba. Overnight in the charming town of Ollantaytambo.

• Meals: Breakfast (no other meals included on this day)
• Accommodations: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
• Lowest Elevation: 3,400 m/11,154 ft
• Highest Elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 7: Start of the Short Inca Trail

Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your Ollantaytambo hotel and walk to the train station to board the iconic train that will take us to KM 104 (starting point of the Short Inca Trail hike).

Once at KM 104, we start our trek to Machu Picchu by visiting the Chachabamba archaeological complex (2150 m/7052 ft), located very close to the Inca Trail check point, to then embark on a 3 ½ hours uphill hike to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna (2650m/8692ft).

This is an impressive Incan site made up of an agricultural center with numerous terraces, an area of religious worship and a housing area.

During the hike from Chachabamba to Wiñay Wayna, we will have magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological Incan site all surrounded by the mountains, as well as a stunning waterfall located just a few minutes before we arrive at Wiñay Wayna – its cool mist refreshing on your skin.

We then continue our hike for 2 hours up and down sections until finally we reach the Sun Gate (main entry to one of the new seven wonders of the world from the Inca Trail).

From this spellbinding location, we will contemplate our first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, the sacred city dramatically revealed below.

After we have had time to admire the spectacle, we embark on a 45-minute descent, walking to Machu Picchu where we can take a bus to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes.

We are then accommodated at one of the tranquil Machu Picchu hotels of Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest.

Dinner will be at one of the local Machu Picchu restaurants in town (drinks not included).

• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
• Highest Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
• Distance to Walk: 13 km/8 miles
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 to 8 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 8: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Photos and Tour – Aguas Calientes – Train to Cusco

The hotel will prepare an early breakfast for you before we meet to take a very early bus along the winding road back to the ancient city.

As we gradually climb to the sacred city, we should be lucky enough to see the magnificent sunrise over the Andes, painting the ruins in warm golden and pink light.

All of our guides are experts and enthusiasts in the history and legends of Machu Picchu, and so the 2-hour tour of the site will be sure to bring the city to life.

Of course, there will be plenty of time to take your once-in-a-lifetime photos of the city….and of the wild llamas roaming the terraces!

If you choose to climb Huayna Picchu mountain, you will begin the hike promptly at 10 a.m. (the cost for hiking Huayna Picchu Mountain is NOT included in the trip price). If you are not climbing the mountain, exit the citadel and return to Aguas Calientes by bus.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes we board the expedition train to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy.

From the train station we will transfer you in our minivan to your Cusco hotel.

Arrival time in Cusco depends on the time of your train ticket, but it is generally between 7 and 8 p.m.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Hotel or similar
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
• Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/8,052 ft

Day 9: Cusco – Humantay Lake – Cusco

Early morning pickup for a scenic drive through dramatic mountain landscapes to Soraypampa.

Hike to the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake, nestled beneath soaring glaciers.

Feel the crisp, pure Andean air as you soak in the breathtaking views and enjoy a scenic packed lunch by the water.

Return to Cusco in the afternoon with unforgettable memories of this high-altitude gem.

• Meals: Breakfast/ Packed-Lunch
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Hotel or similar
• Lowest Elevation: 2,803 m/9,196 ft
• Highest Elevation: 4,213 m/13,822 ft.
• Distance to Walk: 6 km/3.7 miles (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 10: Cusco – Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) – Cusco

Before dawn, we collect you for the journey to the trailhead.

After breakfast in Cusipata, hike through Andean foothills with views of alpacas, llamas, and traditional Quechua farms.

Reach the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m), where vibrant natural colors dazzle under the sun.

Enjoy the panoramic views at the Red Valley lookout before descending and returning to Cusco with a rewarding lunch en route.

• Meals: Breakfast/ Lunch
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Hotel or similar
• Lowest Elevation: 4,638 m / 15,216 ft
• Highest Elevation: 5,020 m / 16,466 ft
• Distance to Walk: 8 km / 4.97 miles
• Approximate Walking Time: 2 hours (1 hour up; 1 hour down)
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 11: Travel back to Lima Airport

Sadly, our Adventure ends today.

We will collect you at any desired time from your Cusco hotel to transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.

We sincerely hope that you made a lifetime of unforgettable memories throughout your journey with us!

• Meals: Breakfast

Note: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other events which are beyond our control.

At Action Treks Peru we will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.

Services Included

Guided Tours & Experiences

• Professional licensed guide fluent in English and Spanish throughout the entire itinerary
• Private guided walking tour of Machu Picchu
• Lima city tour
• Amazon experience
• Sacred Valley tour (including all archaeological sites)
• Short Inca Trail hike (KM 104 to Machu Picchu)

Transportation

• All ground transportation in private vehicles
• Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104
• Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (Day 8)
• Expedition return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy
• Private van transfer from the train station (Ollantaytambo or Poroy) to Cusco
• Admission ticket to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological Site

Accommodations (based on double occupancy)

• 2 nights in a comfortable hotel in Lima
• 2 nights at an EcoLodge in the Amazon
• 4 nights in a comfortable hotel in Cusco
• 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Ollantaytambo
• 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes

Meals

• 10 breakfasts (at all hotels)
• 4 lunches (including 1 box lunch on the Short Inca Trail)
• 1 dinner in Aguas Calientes

Additional Inclusions

• All admission fees (Lima tour, Amazon experience, archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, etc.)
• First-aid kit with emergency oxygen tank for all tours

Services Not Included

• International and domestic flights/airfare
• Huayna Picchu Mountain permit (available for an additional USD $75 per person)
• Meals not explicitly listed above
• Airport taxes
• Gratuities/tips
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

PRICES & ADD-ONS

Group: USD $1850 per person
Private: USD $2000 per person

What to bring:

Documents & Essentials

• Original passport (plus your old one if you got a new passport after booking)
• Valid travel/trekking permits (if required — check with your operator)
• Cash (small denominations) + credit/debit card
• Travel insurance documents (with emergency contact numbers)

Clothing & Footwear

• Trekking boots (well broken-in, waterproof recommended)
• Warm fleece jacket (mid-layer)
• Light long pants (quick-dry, zip-off recommended)
• Warm underwear / base layers (merino wool or synthetic)
• A few t-shirts (moisture-wicking)
• Socks (mix of liner + thick trekking socks)
• Sun hat / cap + warm beanie or balaclava
• Gloves (light + warmer pair)
• Rain jacket (waterproof and breathable)
• Gaiters (optional but useful for snow/mud)

Toiletries & Personal Care

• Toilet paper + wet wipes (biodegradable preferred)
• Personal towel (quick-dry, compact)
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo
• Sunscreen (SPF 35+ or higher)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Hand sanitizer
• Any personal medications + basic first-aid items (blister plasters, painkillers, altitude sickness meds if advised)

Electronics & Optics

• Headlamp (with spare batteries)
• Camera + spare batteries & memory cards (batteries drain faster at altitude)
• Binoculars
• Sunglasses (with UV protection — category 3 or 4)
• Power bank + charging cables
• Phone (with offline maps if possible)

Trekking Accessories

• Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep descents — can be rented from us)
• Daypack or small backpack for summit day
• Water bottle or hydration bladder (at least 2–3 liters capacity)
• Snacks / energy bars / electrolytes

Miscellaneous

• Book or e-reader (you’ll have downtime at camp)
• Small repair kit (duct tape, needle & thread, safety pins)
• Plastic bags / dry bags (for wet clothes or electronics protection)
• Sunglasses case + strap
• Earplugs + eye mask (for shared accommodations)

FAQs: The Ultimate Peru Odyssey – Rainforest, Andes & Lost Inca Wonders (11 Days)

Who is Action Peru Treks and why should I book with them? 

Action Peru Treks is a highly recommended Peru tour operator specializing in authentic, well-organized adventures to the Amazon, Sacred Valley, and Machupicchu.

We are consistently praised on Tripadvisor for our professional guides, seamless logistics, attention to detail, and commitment to responsible tourism.

Travelers highlight the excellent communication, comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable local guides, and the way we take care of every detail so you can fully enjoy the journey.

What is the overall structure and pace of the trip? 

This 11-day adventure combines the best of Peru: 2 days in the Amazon Rainforest (Days 3 – 5), exploration of the Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu (Days 6 – 8), and high-Andes highlights including Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain (Days 9 – 10).

It starts and ends in Lima/Cusco with built-in time for acclimatization.

The pace is active but balanced, with rest and recovery days after altitude changes.

What are the physical requirements and difficulty levels? 

The trip suits travelers in good health with a reasonable level of fitness.

• Amazon section: Easy (some walking, kayaking).
• Short Inca Trail day: Moderate (6 – 8 hours, ~13 km, uphill sections).
• Humantay Lake: Moderate.
• Rainbow Mountain: Challenging (high altitude, 8 km round trip). Most days involve 2 – 8 hours of activity. Altitude ranges from sea level to over 5,000 m (16,400 ft) – proper acclimatization is built into the itinerary.

How is altitude handled? A:

The itinerary is carefully designed for gradual acclimatization.

You spend time at sea level in Lima, low jungle (183 m), then move to Cusco (3,400 m) with a rest afternoon.

Coca tea is provided, and guides monitor guests.

Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol initially, and follow guide recommendations.

Those with heart, lung, or severe altitude concerns should consult a doctor before booking.

What kind of accommodations and meals can I expect? 

Accommodations are comfortable, clean, and well-located: modern hotels in Lima and Cusco (e.g., Tierra Viva), a riverside eco-lodge in the Amazon, and charming hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.

Meals feature fresh Peruvian cuisine – ceviche, Andean potatoes, Amazon fish, and vegetarian options.

The Amazon lodge provides full board with local flavors.

What should I pack? 

Essentials include: lightweight rain jacket (Amazon), layers for variable Andean temperatures, sturdy walking/hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, binoculars for wildlife, headlamp/flashlight for night walks, personal medications, and a daypack.

Is this a group tour or private? Can I customize it? 

This is typically a small-group departure (max group size is kept intimate for better experience).

Private/custom options are available upon request.

What about safety, health, and sustainability? 

Action Peru Treks prioritizes safety with experienced guides, reliable transportation, and emergency protocols.

They follow sustainable practices, support local communities, and promote responsible wildlife viewing.

Standard vaccinations and travel insurance covering medical evacuation and trip cancellation are highly recommended.

When is the best time to go and how do I book? 

The trip runs year-round, though dry season (May – September) offers clearer skies for hiking and Machupicchu views, while the wet season brings lush jungle and fewer crowds.

Contact Action Peru Treks directly for availability, dates, and pricing.

Early booking is advised, especially for Machupicchu and train tickets.

What happens on the last day and are there extension options? 

Day 11 includes a flexible hotel pickup and transfer to Cusco airport for your flight to Lima (or onward).

Many guests add extensions to Lake Titicaca, Nazca Lines, or more Amazon time.

Why do travelers love this itinerary? 

It delivers an unforgettable mix of biodiversity (Amazon wildlife), cultural immersion (Inca history and living traditions), and iconic landscapes (Machupicchu at sunrise, colorful Rainbow Mountain, turquoise lakes).

Our travelers frequently describe it as life-changing, with Action Peru Treks earning rave reviews on TripAdvisor for making the complex logistics effortless.

If you have additional questions or would like to reserve your spot on this epic journey, feel free to reach out – we can’t wait to welcome you to Peru!