From Lima: 13-Day Ultimate Trek – Cusco, Choquequirao Trek, Humantay Lake, Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain & Lima City Tour
Trek Choquequirao, hike to Humantay Lake, visit Rainbow Mountain, and explore Machu Picchu on this 13-day Peru adventure.
From Lima: 13-Day Ultimate Trek – Cusco, Choquequirao Trek, Humantay Lake, Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain & Lima City Tour
Embark on an extraordinary 13-day journey through Peru, where adventure and culture intertwine. Start in Lima, the City of Kings, and explore Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. Discover the Sacred Valley’s treasures, including Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero, before embarking on a 4-day trek to the hidden citadel of Choquequirao, a stunning yet lesser-known archaeological wonder.
Continue your journey to Humantay Lake, a glacial gem nestled in the Andes, and take on the Short Inca Trail, which leads you directly to the iconic Machu Picchu through ancient ruins and lush cloud forests. Conclude your adventure with a trek to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru’s most striking natural wonders.
This itinerary is designed for explorers seeking a blend of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and Peru’s rich Incan heritage. It offers a perfect balance of physical challenge and cultural immersion, leaving you with memories to treasure forever.
| Departure & Return Location | Lima Airport or Bus Station (Pickup and drop-off coordination based on your details) |
| Departure Time | Flexible, based on your arrival schedule |
| Estimated Return Time | Flexible, adjusted to your flight or bus departure |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Choquequirao, Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Lima Historic Center |
Lima Airport/Bus Station – Arrival – Transfer to Hotel
Welcome to Lima! Upon arrival at the airport or bus station, our team will greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Take the day to unwind or explore the city at your own pace. Lima’s vibrant neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and world-renowned cuisine await you.
Accommodation: Hotel in Lima
Meals: None included
Transport: Approx. 30 minutes
Lima – Cusco – City Tour
After breakfast, take a scenic flight to Cusco (included in your package). Upon arrival, enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel. Spend the morning acclimating to the altitude (3,400m/11,152ft) by taking it easy and staying hydrated.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Cusco. Explore Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and venture to nearby archaeological sites, including Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara. Learn about Cusco’s blend of Incan and colonial heritage before returning to your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Light walking
Transport: Approx. 3 hours
Cusco – Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero) – Return to Cusco
Explore the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas. Begin in Pisac, where you’ll marvel at the agricultural terraces and vibrant artisan market.
Next, head to Urubamba for a lunch break (meal not included). Continue to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll explore the impressive fortress and learn about its strategic importance during the Inca Empire. Conclude the day with a visit to Chinchero, famous for its traditional weaving demonstrations and colonial church. Return to Cusco in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Approx. 2 hours
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Cusco – Capuliyoc – Santa Rosa (Choquequirao Trek Begins)
Your trekking adventure begins with an early morning drive to Capuliyoc (2,850m/9,350ft). Enjoy breathtaking views of the Apurimac Canyon as you prepare to descend into the canyon.
The trail takes you through lush landscapes, offering incredible vistas of the river below. Arrive at Santa Rosa (1,800m/5,906ft), where your campsite awaits. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and rest under the stars.
Accommodation: Camping at Santa Rosa
Meals: Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 15 km
Transport: Approx. 4 hours
Santa Rosa – Choquequirao – Marampata
Wake up to the serene sounds of the Andean wilderness. After breakfast, tackle the ascent to the Choquequirao ruins (3,035m/9,957ft). This hidden archaeological site rivals Machu Picchu in grandeur and offers a more tranquil experience.
Spend the afternoon exploring its plazas, ceremonial areas, and terraces adorned with sacred llama carvings. Afterward, continue to Marampata, where your campsite offers panoramic views of the valley below.
Accommodation: Camping at Marampata
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 10 km
Marampata – Santa Rosa – Chiquisca
Begin your descent from Marampata, retracing your steps through the Apurimac Canyon. Cross the Apurimac River at Rosalinas Beach (1,500m/4,921ft) before ascending to Chiquisca (1,950m/6,398ft).
Relax at your campsite with a hearty dinner and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding mountains.
Accommodation: Camping at Chiquisca
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 11 km
Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Soraypampa – Camping at Soraypampa
Complete the final section of the Choquequirao Trek with a steady ascent to Capuliyoc. Celebrate your trekking achievement with your team before embarking on a scenic drive to Soraypampa (3,850m/12,631ft).
Settle into your campsite surrounded by majestic mountain scenery, preparing for the trek to Humantay Lake the following day.
Accommodation: Camping at Soraypampa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 4 hours, 8 km
Transport: Approx. 4–5 hours
Soraypampa – Trek to Humantay Lake – Drive to Ollantaytambo
Wake up to the breathtaking views of the Andes and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Begin your trek to Humantay Lake (4,200m/13,780ft), a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.
The trail provides incredible views and opportunities to connect with the serene natural environment. Upon reaching the lake, marvel at its vibrant turquoise waters and take time to relax, explore, and capture unforgettable photographs. After descending to Soraypampa, enjoy lunch before a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo. Check into your hotel and relax in this charming Inca town.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 3–4 hours, 8 km
Transport: Approx. 3–4 hours
Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes
Begin your Short Inca Trail adventure with an early morning transfer to the trailhead at Chachabamba. This 2-day trek offers a glimpse into the incredible engineering and spiritual significance of the Inca civilization.
Hike through lush cloud forests and past ancient ruins, including the impressive Wiñay Wayna, a terraced site perched on the mountainside. Arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), your first view of the iconic Machu Picchu. Descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel, preparing for your guided tour of Machu Picchu the next day.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Boxed Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 12 km
Transport: Approx. 1 hour (by train)
Aguas Calientes – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Cusco
After breakfast, take a short bus ride to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your guide will lead you on an in-depth tour of the citadel, sharing insights into its history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Explore the iconic terraces, temples, and ceremonial sites, and enjoy time to wander the ruins at your own pace. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and board the train back to Ollantaytambo. A private transfer will take you to Cusco for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Approx. 2 hours (at Machu Picchu)
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Cusco – Rainbow Mountain Trek (Vinicunca)
Today, embark on a full-day trek to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Depart early in the morning to the trailhead, where the hike begins. Pass through breathtaking Andean landscapes, dotted with grazing alpacas and llamas, and ascend to the summit (5,200m/17,060ft).
At the top, take in the vivid, naturally striped hues of the mountain and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. After a rewarding experience, descend to enjoy a hearty lunch before returning to Cusco in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 4–5 hours, 10 km
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Cusco – Flight to Lima – Lima City Tour
After breakfast, take a morning flight to Lima (included). Upon arrival, explore Lima’s historic center on a guided tour. Visit the Plaza Mayor, where the Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace, and Government Palace reflect Peru’s colonial heritage.
Continue to the San Francisco Monastery, known for its intricate architecture and famous catacombs. Conclude your tour with a visit to the bohemian Barranco District, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Return to your hotel for a relaxing final evening in Peru.
Accommodation: Hotel in Lima
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Approx. 1–2 hours (tour)
Lima – Departure
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to the airport or bus station for your departure. Reflect on an incredible journey through Peru, from the hidden ruins of Choquequirao to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the iconic Machu Picchu.
Accommodation: None included
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Approx. 30 minutes
Important Note:
At our agency, we prioritize your convenience and peace of mind. This package has been thoughtfully structured to account for potential delays in flights, trains, or other transportation that may occasionally occur due to circumstances beyond our control.
To mitigate any impact on your international travel plans, the itinerary is designed to conclude with the Lima city tour, ensuring that you are already in the capital the day prior to your departure. This arrangement effectively provides a built-in buffer, minimizing the risk of missing your flight while still allowing you to enjoy the highlights of your journey.
For additional security, we recommend considering an extra day in Lima to fully relax and explore the city at your leisure before your international flight.
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Special Discounts
- Adult (12+ Years): Standard rates apply for travelers over 12 years old.
- Student (-25 Years with Student Card): Save USD 20 with a valid Student Card for those younger than 25 years old.
- Child (3 – 11 Years): Save USD 30 for children between 3 and 11 years old.
- Infant (0 – 2 Years): Infants younger than 2 years old are free (must ride on the adult’s lap; for a separate seat, add them as a child).
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
*Please note that the applicable age is considered at the time of completion of the trip.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 50% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 50% of the tour cost is due no later than 30 days before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Peru Tripper will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Peru Tripper does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
Elevate your travel experience with our bespoke Deluxe Package, meticulously designed to offer an array of premium amenities and services.
Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
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