Day 6 Amazon Lodge – Sacred Valley
It’s time to leave the jungle behind. You will take the boat back to Puerto Maldonado for a flight to Cusco, high in the Andean mountains (3,399m).

From Cusco you will continue to your accommodation in the heart of the picturesque Sacred Valley surrounded by the stunning mountains of the Andes. The Sacred Valley, at 2,800m, is lower than Cusco so this will aid with acclimatisation.

Day 7 Sacred Valley – Chinchero, Moray & Maras
A fabulous day of ancient history and vibrant culture. Visit Chinchero for a snapshot of traditional textiles and the weaving techniques passed down through generations. You will also visit the Chinchero archaeological complex, one of the most important in the area, featuring terraces and aquaducts, set against gorgeous crisp mountain views.

Head onwards to Moray, where it is thought that perhaps the Incans conducted research into agriculture. Today this is an impressive site, a vast amphitheatre created by huge, incredibly precise circular terraces. From here continue to the salt mines of Maras where hundreds of flat white terraces cascade down the mountainside. Hear about how the Incans extracted salt from the land and soak up stunning panoramic views of the mosaic of terraces and ponds to the mountains beyond.

Day 8 Sacred Valley – White Water Rafting
Time for some adrenaline fun! Start your Urubamba rafting journey on easy waters while admiring the spectacular views of the mountains, Inca ruins and terraces. Enjoy some class 2-3 rapids along with some thrilling whirlpools. Disembark near the historic town of Ollantaytambo and transfer back to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.

There are many other alternatives if this does not appeal – zip-wiring, SUP, biking, horse-riding, hiking, kayaking – the options are endless according to energy levels!

Day 9 Sacred Valley – Culture & Community
Dive into village life and spend the day as a member of a local community. The village lies in a spectacular setting in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Here you will glimpse the  indigenous Andean lifestyle and take part in various daily activities. You will have the opportunity to enjoy some cooking, construction or agricultural experiences as well as a hike around the community, before indulging in a delicious lunch prepared with traditional local ingredients. A great day of hands on activities and a superb way to witness ancient traditions firsthand.

Day 10 Sacred Valley – Zip-lining
An exciting morning as you take zip-lines over the Sacred Valley. This activity is so much fun, and children will love the thrill of following a series of seven ‘zips’ over dramatic scenery with incredible views along the valley. Each line is different from the others – start off with a short, easy one and graduate to longer zips, upping your zip-line expertise as you go! (If this isn’t for you, we can arrange hiking, biking, kayaking, SUP, or you can even lend a hand with a local reforestation project).

This afternoon, take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town. Nestled at the foot of the iconic citadel, this is the gateway to what will no doubt be a highlight of your holiday. Spend the rest of the day wandering around the small town or perhaps visit the nearby hot springs. 

Day 11 Machu Picchu
One of the most important landmarks in the world awaits you: Machu Picchu! A short bus ride brings you to one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World – an unforgettable sight. Perched on a ridge at 2,430m, between enormous peaks, the lost city of Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, spread wide over the mountainside. Explore the ruins on a guided tour, hearing about the stories that this mysterious place holds, and following small passageways through the vast rock walls. No-one knows exactly what the building were originally used for… Was it a permanently inhabited city or a country retreat for the Inca nobility? Either way, it is stunning.

In the afternoon you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then continue on by car to Cusco.

Note: Active families might like to consider the ‘Inca Express,’ a one day hike that allows you to arrive at the fabled site of Machu Picchu on foot, through the Sun Gate, in the afternoon just when other visitors are leaving. You then return to the site the following day for a more relaxed visit. If you’d like to do this or the longer Classic 4-day Inca Trek, please ask us for details. 

Days 12-13 Cusco
You have two full days to explore the city. Once the centre of the vast Inca Empire, Cusco offers an intoxicating combination of ancient religious sanctity and colonial splendour. Wander through the cobbled streets and you will come across huge stone blocks that were cut in Incan times with remarkable precision before turning a corner to find a lovely square that is framed by exquisite colonial buildings painted in pastel colours and attractive Spanish churches.

We will include a morning guided tour for your first day to give you your bearings visiting the colourful San Pedro Market, the Koricancha temple, the impressive hilltop fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the imposing cathedral in the Plaza de Armas. You will also visit the city’s iconic local market before spending the rest of your time at leisure. Wander around the artistic quarter where you can find many excellent cafes and restaurants and head to the markets to bargain for souvenirs. 

Day 14 Cusco – Lima
Transfer to the airport for a short flight back to Lima. A taste sensation awaits you today… Did you know that Peru is the second largest producer of organic cocoa in the world? Get your tastebuds ready – on this fun activity, discover the amazing variety of flavours in the local cocoa. Accompanied by a cup of freshly roasted coffee and two expert guides, experience a chocolate tour, sampling various regional cocoa products to taste the difference. Feel like connoisseurs as you make notes on your tasting sheets, grading the aroma, melt and even the snap! It’s also the perfect place to pick up any chocolate-themed souvenirs to take home.

Day 15 Lima
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.