Experience the best of Peru on our substance-free trip! Our journey blends the culture and cuisine of Cusco with the legendary Salkantay Trail, culminating at the Incan masterpiece of Machu Picchu.
Trek through shifting ecosystems: desert valleys, lush jungles, sky-high passes, and sacred blue lagoons.
Then unwind in true comfort: glass-ceilinged cabanas, Hobbit Houses with jacuzzis, and boutique hotels.
But the real magic? The people. Strangers become hiking buddies. Buddies become lifelong friends.
7 nights in a mix of boutique hotels and glamping campsites (glass cabanas, hobbit houses. etc)
6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
Kick the trip off with a special welcome dinner at our favorite fine-dining restaurant in Cusco
Hosted on Day 3
Walking sticks, sleeping bag, pillow, backpack cover, rain poncho, etc.
Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu
All travel within Peru is covered and will be in comfortable, private vans
Local, English-speaking guides will be with us from Day 3 onwards
Our trips are intentionally substance-free so we can focus on connecting with the experience and each other
(Except as noted)
Book your flights via Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
Tipping is of considerable significance to the local guides, porters and chefs who will be taking care of us on the trek.
Strongly suggested, but not required
Welcome to Cusco: the heart of the ancient Inca Empire!
Settle in, take a deep breath, and soak in your first glimpse of this stunning high-altitude city.
In the evening, we’ll come together for a special welcome dinner and enjoy some delicious Peruvian cuisine.
Today is all about easing into the rhythm of the Andes while soaking in the rich history and energy of Cusco.
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll spend the day exploring the city’s vibrant streets, ancient ruins, and lively markets. Expect a perfect mix of light activity and rest to help your body continue adjusting to the high altitude.
We’ll take a short acclimatization hike to the iconic fortress of Sacsayhuamán where you'll get sweeping views of the red-roofed city nestled in the mountains.
In the afternoon, you'll have time to relax, grab a coca tea, or wander at your own pace.
Today is the start of our 5-day trek!
We’ll leave Cusco before sunrise and drive through the Andes to Challacancha. After a gradual uphill hike to Soraypampa and lunch at the Glass Cabañas, we’ll spend the afternoon hiking to the turquoise Humantay Lagoon before returning to camp.
The evening includes free time, a Peruvian cooking class, dinner, and your first night in glass cabins.
Walking Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,700ft
Accommodation: Glass Cabañas
Get ready for the most epic day of the Salkantay trek! We kick things off with a steady hike through highland landscapes, past Salkantay Pampa and up to the trek’s highest point: the majestic Salkantay Pass (15,255 feet).
After soaking in the views, we’ll descend to our campsite at Wayracmachay.
From our glass-dome accommodations, we will have a panoramic view of Humantay and the lower slopes of the Salkantay Glacier. This area is known for its beautiful views of the night sky, so be ready for some unforgettable stargazing!
Walking Distance: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~3,000ft
Accommodation: Glass Domes
Rise and shine to a warm drink and a breathtaking sunrise over glacier peaks. After breakfast, we’ll descend through changing landscapes (icy mountains to lush jungle) for about four hours until reaching our lunch spot in Ccollpapampa.
After lunch, the journey continues downhill through waterfalls and tropical farmlands to the enchanting Hobbit Houses: our glamping retreat nestled by the Salkantay River.
Unwind with a hot shower, outdoor jacuzzi, and garden stroll before enjoying a cozy dinner with river views and falling asleep to the soothing sounds of nature.
Walking Distance: 13 miles
Elevation Gain: 900ft
Accommodation: Hobbit Houses (!!)
We’ll start the day with breakfast at the Hobbit House before driving to Lucmabamba to begin a scenic uphill hike along the original Inca Trail. This gorgeous trail passes through lush jungle as we make our way to Llactapata, an ancient ruin with (distant) panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
After lunch at Hidroelectrica, we’ll follow a traintracks through the Machu Picchu canyon before arriving in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
Walking Distance: 14 miles
Elevation Gain: ~3,000ft
Accommodation: Boutique Hotel
Today is all about exploring the legendary Machu Picchu: one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most iconic remnant of the Inca Empire. After an early breakfast, we’ll hike up the steep, switchback trail to the entrance gates. (Optional: take the bus!)
Arriving early means we will get a chance to witness the citadel at its most peaceful, just as the rising sun begins to light up the surrounding peaks and push mist from the stone terraces. It’s an unforgettable sight.
We will explore sacred temples, intricate stonework, and the Temple of the Sun. Along the way, our local guide will share stories of Inca engineering brilliance, cultural practices, and the mysteries that still surround this awe-inspiring site perched high in the Andes.
After soaking in the majesty of Machu Picchu, we will have one final lunch with our amazing local guides and porters before boarding the Vistadome Train: a glass-domed experience that offers panoramic views of the lush Sacred Valley landscapes.
Once we arrive in Ollantaytambo, there will be one final private van ride back to Cusco. Sit back, relax, and take in the final glimpses of the Andes as you return to your hotel for a well-earned rest and one last night in this magical region.
Walking Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,000ft
Accommodation: Boutique Hotel
All great adventures must come to an end. Expect hugs, heartfelt goodbyes, and maybe even a few tears as we part ways.
