Heart of the Incas Plus Llama Trek 9D/8N

Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit: A 9-Day Epic Journey Through Peru to Machu Picchu and trek Rainbow Mountain with Llamas

Overview Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime with our exclusive 9-day journey that seamlessly blends the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu with the vibrant landscapes of Rainbow Mountain. This unique tour with Peru by Locals invites you to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Cusco, taking you through iconic sites in and around Cusco, including:

• The stunning Colonial Cathedral of Cusco, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture
• The sacred Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha), an emblem of Inca spirituality
• The impressive Sacsayhuamán, featuring ancient stone walls that tell stories of resilience
• The mesmerizing Salt Mines of Maras, where luminous white salt ponds shimmer under the sun
• The enchanting Sacred Valley, a haven of idyllic scenery and rich agriculture
• The iconic Inca city of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
• An unforgettable Llama trek to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, known for its vibrant striped hues

With Peru by Locals, you’ll enjoy smooth transitions with arranged tickets, transportation, cozy accommodations, gourmet meals,  local guides who bring the history and culture of Peru to life and all orginized Llama packing trip to Rainbow mountain.

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco – Relax and acclimatize to the altitude in a charming lodge (Overnight in Cusco)
Day 2: Immerse yourself in a city tour, exploring the heart of Cusco’s history and architectural wonders (Overnight in Cusco)
Day 3: Discover the Sacred Valley’s beauty along with the mystical Salt Mines
Day 4: Experience the awe of Machu Picchu – Overnight in the picturesque Machu Picchu Town
Day 5: Hike to the stunning Waterfalls of Perolniyuc for a half-day of relaxation surrounded by nature
Day 6, 7, 8: Dive into adventure with a thrilling 3-day Llama trek to Rainbow Mountain, including 2 nights of peaceful camping under the stars
Day 9: Departure from Cusco, taking home memories of a lifetime

Trip Highlights

• Exclusive Convenience: Enjoy a meticulously planned itinerary that relieves you of stress and lets you focus on adventure.
• Expert Local Guides: Explore with passionate guides who not only know the terrain but share their deep cultural insights with enthusiasm.
• Comfort in the Heart of Cusco: Stay in hand-selected hotels located in the vibrant center, just steps away from cultural gems.
• Culinary Delights: Savor the mouthwatering flavors of Peruvian cuisine at top-rated restaurants, from traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations.
• Scenic Train Ride: Indulge in a beautifully scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, where breathtaking views await at every turn.
• Witness the Wonder of Machu Picchu: Walk through history at this ancient marvel and absorb its mystical atmosphere.
• Unique Llama Trek Adventure: Join our friendly Llamas on an exhilarating trek to Rainbow Mountain, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

This is more than a trip; it’s a transformative journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes and culturally-rich experiences Peru has to offer. Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure today!

• Type of tour: Lodge-based, historical, van transport, train ride, camping, trekking
• Trip service: All exclusive
• Food: We use restaurants such as Morena, Chicha, Organika, Indio Feliz
• Type of transport: Private van in every tour from start to end and train rides
• Duration: 9 days / 8 nights (6 nights hotel / 2 nights camping)

Group size: Our tour group sizes are very important to guarantee the quality of our service by giving you personalized service. That’s why we run with an average of 2 to 7 guests. This is not only to guarantee the quality of our service but also to make you feel like part of our family. Can you imagine having 20 people in a group and trying to hear or see your guide? It’s not the same as having close interaction all the time and learning about this amazing country.

Accommodation: For this trip, we use 3 and 5-star hotels upon your request at the time of your booking.

Our guides: PERU BY LOCALS was a dream that came true in 2015 for Jose Condor, who has guided tours in Peru and especially Machu Picchu from 2004 until today and has been to Machu Picchu over 1,000 times. Now Peru by Locals has a group of top guides, both men and women, who have professional degrees and receive refresher training every year. These folks have trained with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) in WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER since your health is very important to us. Our guides are trained to assist with all your needs while you are vacationing. We invest in our guides because we believe they are the main ingredient of any trip.

Peru by Locals is not only a travel company but a group of great staff and tour leaders who love sharing their passion with you and enjoy being with travelers.

YOUR BOOKING WITH US: YOU GO WITH US. Peru by Locals does not rearrange tours with other companies since we are based in Cusco and operate all our tours.

Location: This trip starts in Cusco city or Sacred Valley upon your request. You will need to fly to Lima, the capital of Peru, then to Velasco Astete in Cusco airport, which is a small domestic airport.

Departures: This hike is operated by PERU BY LOCALS 100%. When you book your hike or take any tour package, you go with us. We don’t rearrange tours, and we depart every day year-round. The size of the groups is from 2 to 5 people on average, which allows us to give you personalized service.

We take bookings year-round and this hike does not need to be booked a long time in advance. So, anytime you are ready, join us and reach us for any questions you have via our 24/7 number +51 989585967 or email us at info@perubylocals.com

DAY 1: ARRIVAL AND RESTING

On your arrival to Cusco, you will meet your designated guide in Cusco to welcome you to this beautiful city. Then, we will drive you to the hotel in the historical area of Cusco.

Overnight: Cusco

• Includes: Pickup from the airport.

Day 2: Immersive City Tour of Cusco

Start Your Adventure: At 8:00 AM, your knowledgeable guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco, ready to embark on a captivating journey through the heart of this ancient city. Depending on the location of your hotel, your day may begin with a scenic walk through the historical district, where you’ll experience the charm of Cusco’s cobblestone streets, or a short drive if your accommodation is further afield.

First Stop: Cusco’s Magnificent Cathedral Your first destination is the awe-inspiring Cusco Cathedral, a stunning architectural gem that houses an extraordinary collection of artwork from the 15th to the 17th centuries. Here, you’ll encounter a unique rendition of the Last Supper, featuring the local delicacy, cuy (guinea pig), as the centerpiece. Marvel at how local artists brilliantly weave regional culture and history into their masterpieces, including the portrayal of the Virgin Mary in the shape of a sacred mountain, reflecting the Incas’ reverence for nature.

Continue to Qoricancha: The Temple of the Sun After exploring the Cathedral, follow your guide through the narrow streets that retain their original Inca walls to Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. This sacred site was the most important religious temple in the Inca Empire. Here, you’ll see the fascinating blend of colonial and Inca architecture, as Spanish influences adorned the original Inca structures. Discover the beautifully preserved temples dedicated to celestial bodies like the sun, moon, and stars, and learn about their significance in Incan spirituality.

Sacsayhuamán: An Architectural Marvel Next, you’ll be transported to the monumental site of Sacsayhuamán. Your guide will regale you with stories of this remarkable construction, whose enormous stones—some weighing up to 120 tons—fit seamlessly together without mortar, showcasing the incredible engineering prowess of the Incas. This archaeological site is a testament to the sophistication and skill of Incan architecture, leaving visitors in awe of its grandeur.

Inca Sites Adventure: Qenqo, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay Your tour continues with a visit to Qenqo, known as the Temple of Mother Earth, where you will explore its enigmatic tunnels and ceremonial spaces. Following this, you’ll head to Pukapukara, an ancient fort that once guarded this vital region. Finally, you’ll make your way to Tambomachay, revered as the Temple of Water, where you can relax to the soothing sounds of flowing water and marvel at the Inca’s innovative aqueducts.

End Your Day in Paradise: After a full day of exploration and immersion in Inca heritage, return to your accommodations in Cusco for a restful overnight stay.

Inclusions:

• Private transportation throughout the tour
• Expert guide to enhance your experience
• Lunch at the renowned Morena restaurant, indulging in delicious Peruvian cuisine
• All necessary permits for accessing the attractions

Day 3: Sacred Valley Adventure Including Salt Mines

Begin Your Day: At 7:00 AM, your experienced guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco, ready to embark on an exciting journey through the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a scenic 1-hour ride to the magnificent Pisac archaeological complex, an enchanting Inca site renowned for its Temple of the Sun, ancient cemetery, impressive terraces, and intricate water fountains. As you explore, take in breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley that will leave you spellbound.

Explore the Wonders of Ollantaytambo: Next, you’ll travel approximately 1.5 hours to the Ollantaytambo archaeological complex. Here, you’ll enjoy a detailed guided tour of this historic site, including the awe-inspiring Temple of Water and the royal bath of the Inca princess. Stroll through lush agricultural terraces, marveling at the remarkable engineering of the Incas while soaking in the panoramic vistas that surround you.

Lunch in Urubamba: After a day of exploration, you’ll indulge in a delicious lunch at the Tunupa Restaurant in Urubamba, one of the top dining spots in the Sacred Valley. Savor a variety of delectable Peruvian dishes that highlight the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Journey to the Salt Mines: Post-lunch, your adventure continues with a scenic drive through the captivating Sacred Valley, where lush farmland unfolds before your eyes. Arrive at the famous salt mines of Maras, where you’ll witness over 3,000 salt ponds, each intricately maintained by local families who have preserved the artisanal methods of their ancestors. Discover how the locals harvest salt by hand, a practice that has been passed down through generations.

Discover the Agricultural Marvels of Moray: Next on your itinerary is Moray, an intriguing agricultural experimentation site of the Incas. Here, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of coca leaves and cotton cultivation in this high-altitude environment. Learn about the innovative agricultural techniques employed by the Incas to thrive in such challenging conditions.

Cultural Insights at Chinchero: On your return to Cusco, visit a local weaving industry in Chinchero, where skilled artisans will demonstrate their traditional techniques. Observe how these talented women use natural materials—flowers, roots, and seeds—to dye alpaca and llama wool, creating vibrant textiles. Sip on a refreshing cup of MUÑA tea, made from local mint, as they share their insights into their craft and the cultural significance of their work.

End Your Day: Conclude your unforgettable day in the Sacred Valley with an overnight stay, surrounded by the serene beauty of this remarkable region.

Inclusions:

• Private transportation throughout the tour
• Expert local guide to enhance your experience
• Delicious lunch at Tunupa Restaurant
• All necessary permits for accessing the attractions
• Scenic train ride to Machu Picchu Town

Day 4: Exploring the Marvel of Machu Picchu – Overnight in Cusco

A Magical Early Start: Prepare for an unforgettable day! At 5:00 AM, your hotel will provide either a buffet or boxed breakfast to fuel your adventure. We aim to take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, ensuring you witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Andes mountains. Enjoy the 30-minute scenic drive that winds its way up to the citadel, heightening your anticipation.

The Wonder of Machu Picchu Awaits: Upon arrival, you’ll enter the iconic site alongside your expert guide. Over the next 2-3 hours, delve deep into the enchanting history and spirit of Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead you along a carefully chosen route that skillfully avoids the largest tourist groups, maximizing your experience while capturing stunning photographic opportunities of this ancient wonder.

Tailored Adventure: After the guided tour, you have the option to climb Huayna Picchu mountain (if you secured a permit in advance) for extraordinary panoramic views. Alternatively, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes to retrieve your luggage from your hotel.

Reflective Train Journey Back: Around 3:00 PM, board the train back to Cusco—a perfect time to unwind and reflect on the extraordinary experiences of the past two days. Upon arrival in Cusco, one of our friendly representatives will meet you and transport you back to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Inclusions:

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• Round trip bus ride to Machu Picchu
• Train tickets back to Ollantaytambo
• Transport from the train station to your Cusco hotel
• Lunch

Day 5: Rest Day in Cusco & Hike to Waterfalls of Perolniyuc

A Refreshing Day Ahead: After the excitement of Machu Picchu, today is designed for relaxation and light adventure. Enjoy a leisurely morning in Cusco before heading out for a scenic drive of approximately 30 minutes to Soqma.

Hiking to the Waterfalls: From Soqma, embark on a charming 30-minute hike along an easy trail that leads to the stunning Waterfalls of Perolniyuc. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you, taking in the sights and sounds of the cascading waters.

Afternoon Relaxation: Following your enjoyable hike, you’ll return to Cusco by lunchtime. Take this opportunity to rest and pack for the exhilarating Llama trek that awaits you.

Overnight: Cusco

Inclusions:

• Private transportation throughout the tour
• Expert guide to ensure an enriching experience
• Lunch

Day 6: Departure to Llama Trek – Upis Bajo – Arapa Pass – Pukacocha

An Early Start to Your Adventure: Rise and shine as we depart from Cusco at 4:00 AM for a scenic 3-hour ride to the trailhead at Upis Bajo. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our horse riders who will assist in loading all equipment while we enjoy our first camping breakfast, setting the stage for our exhilarating trek.

Begin the Journey: Our adventure begins with a gradual uphill hike toward the majestic Ausangate Mountain, accompanied by gentle herds of Llamas and Alpacas. While the elevation may pose some challenges, rest assured that our dedicated guides will be by your side, encouraging you every step of the way to ensure you arrive at camp with joy.

Lunch and Relaxation: We’ll pause at Upis Camp for a hearty lunch and a well-deserved nap. Energized, we’ll continue our trek towards the Arapa Pass, a sacred site for the Quechua people. Here, we’ll perform a small ceremony to honor the mountains, following in the footsteps of our ancestors, especially as we approach the revered Ausangate Mountain.

Lunch by Yanacocha Lake: After this special moment, we’ll descend to a beautiful lunch spot beside Yanacocha Lake, where nature’s serenity enhances our outdoor dining experience. After another refreshing nap, we’ll continue our journey to the next camp at Puka Cocha, nestled at the foot of Ausangate Mountain—a breathtaking location for our overnight stay under the stars.

Overnight: Camping
Includes: Tour guide, camping gear, horses for gear transport, meals, private transport, entrance permits.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by our talented chef.
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
Lowest Elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)
Highest Elevation: 4,800 m (15,748 ft)
Accommodation: Camping

Day 7: Puka Cocha – Ananta Pass – Huarmisaya

Rise and Shine: Awaken to the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee or tea brought to your tent by our cooks, followed by a nourishing breakfast to fuel your day ahead. After packing up, we’ll embark on a challenging trek up a steep switchback trail leading to the second pass.

Historic Trail Markers: At the Ananta Pass, we’ll encounter the Apacheta, a large pile of stones that serves as a historical marker used by the Incas. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, vibrant red mountains, and the occasional sighting of wild Vicuñas, closely related to Llamas.

Lunch and Afternoon Trek: After enjoying the vistas, we’ll descend to our next campsite for a hearty lunch. Our afternoon hike takes us toward Huarmisaya Pass, where you’ll experience your first breathtaking glimpse of the magnificent Rainbow Mountain. A leisurely 25-minute walk will then lead us to our campsite beside Huarmisaya Lake, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the stunning surroundings.

Overnight: Camping
Includes: Tour guide, camping gear, horses for gear transport, meals, private transport, entrance permits.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner created by our amazing chef.
Hiking Time: 7 hours
Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.5 miles)
Lowest Elevation: 4,500 m (14,763 ft)
Highest Elevation: 5,000 m (16,404 ft)
Accommodation: Camping
Level of Difficulty: Challenging

Day 8: Rainbow Mountain – Return to Cusco

Early Morning Hike: Today’s adventure starts with an early morning hike to Rainbow Mountain. We aim to reach this iconic destination before the daytime crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and stunning vistas.

Exploring Spectacular Valleys: After soaking in the beauty of Rainbow Mountain, we’ll return via the spectacular Red Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and relative solitude. Our hiking experience concludes around 10 AM, with a final meal prepared by our chef to celebrate the adventure.

Return to Cusco: Expect to be back in Cusco by noon, where you’ll have the chance to rest and reflect on your incredible journey.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch prepared by our talented chef.
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Hiking Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Lowest Elevation: 4,300 m (14,

Day 9: Departure from Cusco

Enjoy Your Final Day in Cusco: Today is yours to savor as you explore the enchanting city of Cusco at your leisure. Take advantage of the opportunity to stroll through the charming streets, immerse yourself in the rich local culture, or indulge in some last-minute shopping for unique Peruvian crafts and souvenirs.

Explore the City: Wander through vibrant markets, visit local artisan shops, and perhaps savor a delicious meal at one of Cusco’s renowned restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the city’s stunning colonial architecture and picturesque plazas one last time.

Flight Departure: At the appointed time for your flight, one of our friendly representatives will meet you at your hotel and assist you with transportation to Cusco airport. Whether you’re heading home or embarking on a new adventure, we’ll ensure a smooth transition for your journey ahead.

Overnight: Cusco (or travel as per your flight schedule)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Peru by Locals?

Tailor-Made Treks and Tours
At Peru by Locals, we specialize in crafting personalized treks and tours that cater specifically to your interests. Our team is dedicated to providing world-class experiences grounded in exceptional customer service.

Local Expertise
As a locally owned travel company based in Cusco, Peru, we boast decades of first-hand experience in the Peruvian tourism sector. Our knowledgeable staff speaks English, Spanish, and Quechua— the language of the Incas—ensuring effective communication and a deeper connection to the history and culture of the region.

Professional Guidance
Our guides and team members are professionally trained, equipped with extensive knowledge of Incan history, Peruvian culture and traditions, wilderness first aid, and the diverse flora and fauna of the area. They are passionate about sharing their expertise, making your adventure not only enjoyable but also enriching.

Commitment to Sustainability
We are deeply committed to protecting our environment and supporting local communities. By creating jobs and empowering local people, we uphold fair labor practices and treat all employees with respect and dignity.

Community Support Initiatives
Our programs aim to support the development of the families of our porters and local communities. Initiatives include planting trees and providing school supplies for underprivileged families. We also honor the native communities that have stewarded the land you will visit.

Education Fund
To further our commitment to community support, we’ve established an Education Fund that benefits the children of porters. A percentage of the income from every tour and trek goes towards their education, helping ensure that future generations have access to learning opportunities.

Diverse Itineraries
Our trips are meticulously designed to meet your needs, offering unique itineraries that range from 1 to 15 days. With a wide variety of tours and treks available, we guarantee an unforgettable experience tailored just for you!

Worry-Free Adventures
Peru by Locals organizes trips that allow you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying your adventure without any worries.

Small Group Specialists
Our tours cater to those who share a passion for adventure, cultural exploration, culinary delights, history, and photography, welcoming all ages, whether traveling solo, with friends, as a couple, or with family.

Why Small Groups?
We believe that smaller groups enhance the travel experience. With an average group size of just 2 to 8 people, you’ll enjoy greater flexibility and intimacy during your adventures. Say goodbye to long lines and crowded experiences! Small groups allow us to take you off the beaten path to explore hidden gems that few others visit.