Peru

Andean Mountain Medley

Mountain Biking, Llama Trekking, Horseback Riding and Rafting

(12 Days)

Slide Show

On this high-energy extravaganza we indulge in a plethora of Peru's treasures. It's a country blessed with shockingly beautiful landscapes, varied ecosystems, the ancient Inca civilization, archeological ruins and pure outdoor wilderness adventure travel. On horses we canter through the countryside of Cuzco, set high in the cool Andes. In rafts we bounce down the bubbling rapids of the Urubamba River, sharply cutting through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On mountain bikes we whisk through fertile agricultural communities where terraced fields of potato and quinoa carpet the mountainous terrain. Finally, we have an exhilarating 4-day trek, traversing through the Laras Valley, with pack llamas leading the way. The grande finale is a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. This trip is a sure winner to ignite your spirit and enrich your soul.

Trip Highlights

• Exploring the cobblestone streets of Cuzco
• Mountain Biking in the Urubamba Valley
• 4-day trek on the Lares Trail and visit to Machu Picchu

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival into Lima- Fly to Cuzco

Early this morning you'll arrive into Lima and immediately connect with a domestic flight into Cuzco. The remainder of the day is at leisure to acclimate to this high altitude colonial city located at 11,500 feet/3,500 meters.

Day 2: Cuzco (Horseback)

This morning is at leisure to wander through the cobblestone streets of Cuzco exploring the cathedral, museums or shopping for local handicrafts. Later this afternoon we depart by horse, riding to the nearby ruins of Kenko, Tambomachay and Pucapucara. Our final destination is Sacsayhuaman, a spectacular mountaintop fortress overlooking Cuzco. We return to the hotel late afternoon. Approximately 4 hours on horseback. (B)

Day 3: Chacan (Rock Climb)

After breakfast we depart for Chacan, located at 11,500 ft/3,500 meters. We’ll be greeted by a local shaman who will lead us through a spiritual ceremony of Quechua rituals. Later this morning we hike up to the Chacan mountain range and set up top ropes to climb the granite walls, ranging from 15 to 45 feet or 5 to 14 meters in height. There are easy-moderate-challenge routes to accommodate all climbing levels. Early afternoon we return to Cuzco and have the remainder of the day at leisure, an especially good time to explore the numerous artisan markets in the streets. (B,L)

Day 4: Patacancha (Mountain Bike)

Today is a favorite for those in search of a rich cultural experience. We begin with a drive to the community of Huillocan Patacancha and stop at an elementary school to meet with the teachers and students. We're educated about their local customs and gain a better appreciation for their rich culture. Outside the classroom, women sell their impressive handmade weavings. Midday we transfer to the impressive Patacancha River valley where we meet our bikes. The remainder of the day is on fat tires, riding on gritty dirt trails through the rugged Pumahuanca mountain range. The day ends in a comfortable hotel in Urubamba. (B,L)

Day 5: Maras and Moray (Mountain Bike)

Today’s fat tire adventure is an absolutely thrilling day of single and doubletrack riding in the Andean Highlands. We carve along a mountainous trail, zigzagging past colonial haciendas where farmers are frequently seen herding their livestock. We climb to the ruins of Moray, famous for the circular terraces and then glide down a dusty road to the Maras salt works located at 11,086 ft/3,380 meters. These salt mines have captured salt water from a natural spring before pre-Inca times. The day concludes back in Urubamba at the same hotel. (B,L)

Day 6: Urubamba River (Whitewater Raft)

We switch gears today and head to the “put in” on the Urubamba River, rated class 3 on the difficulty scale. Donned in lifejackets and helmets, we cast off the shores navigating 6-person rafts through the boulder-choked current. We take out before lunch and feast on a delicious spread of tropical fruit, fresh vegetables, cold cuts, cheeses and bread. After lunch we'll take a short drive to Ollantaytambo and walk up the steps of this impressive fortress. Overnight at the same hotel in Urubamba. (B,L)

Day 7: Lares Trail (Hike)

This morning we set off by vehicle bright and early. We'll visit the communities of Chinchero and Maras before lunching in the Sacred Valley. We drive to Calca and turn off towards the Lares Valley (approx. 2hrs). We'll ascend over the Amparaes Pass (4,580mt/15,022ft). On the descent, we'll walk the last 3km/2 miles into Lares (3,100mt/10,170ft). This is good opportunity to stretch your legs and take in the stunning views of the valley below. We'll reach our campsite at about 4pm, with time to soak in the steamy thermal springs. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Lares Trail (Hike)

We need an early morning start for the 5-hour trek to the traditional Andean village of Wacahuasi (3,780mt/12,400ft). We'll steadily climb through high Andean communities past traditional weavers and handicraft artisans. We'll see herds of llama and alpaca grazing in fertile fields and we'll cross an ancient Inca trail. Lunch is a picnic in the wilderness, with brilliant vistas surrounding us. We'll arrive in Wacahuasi in the late afternoon in time for a home-cooked dinner at our campsite.(B,L,D)

Day 9: Lares Trail (Hike)

We have another early start this morning, this time headed for the Ipsayccasa Pass (4,500mt/14,760ft). Over the pass we'll descend to Azulcocha Lake (4,100mt/13,500 ft). We'll have another picnic lunch before crossing the pass. We'll camp at the lake with beautiful views on all sides. 7-8 hours total walking time. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Lares Trail - Aguas Calientes (Hike)

Today we travel through a sculpted canyon where we might be lucky and spot the mighty condor and other Andean birds of prey. Engulfed by the rugged Andean Mountains, we slowly descend to Patacancha (3,900mt/12,800ft). Here we'll encounter the Wuayruro people - true native Andeans. We'll feast on a box lunch, then meet our driver and van and drive to Ollantaytambo, passing through the village of Huilloq. We'll reach Ollantaytambo around 2pm, climb the steps of the impressive ruins and have a bit of time to explore the small village. Late afternoon we'll board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Overnight in a comfortable hotel. (B,L)

Day 11: Machu Picchu

We have a full day dedicated to exploring the site. There is an option to climb Huayna Picchu, a young peak adjacent to Machu Picchu. The hike is a challenging one, but the views are well worth the effort. In the afternoon, we take the train through the Urubamba valley, destined for Cuzco. We'll be met at the train station and transferred back to our hotel. (B,L)

Day 12: Departure

After breakfast you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Lima. From here connect with international flights back home. (B)

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