Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive in Cusco, Peru. This usually requires departing the USA on the previous day. A Bio Bio Expeditions representative will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel. Please be sure Bio Bio Expeditions has your complete flight and arrival information. (no meals included)

Day 2
Everyone has the opportunity to explore Cusco and acclimatize to the 11,000-foot elevation. A two-hour excursion up to the ruins called Sacsayhuaman is led by one of our local guides. 20,000 men were employed in the construction of this site over a period of fifty years. Here at Sacsayhuaman, you will see stone blocks 8.5 meters high weighing more than 361 tons. It has been said that these ruins are one of the most astounding megalithic structures of the ancient world; however, these ruins are only a preview of what you will see at Machu Picchu! For today’s dining, you are on your own to choose from one of the many tipico restaurants around town. Cusco is a shopper’s paradise, where you can choose from a myriad of Peruvian hand-crafted goods to bring home as gifts or souvenirs. Overnight stay is at the Hotel Picoagua (no meals included).

Day 3
We will depart Cusco by private transport and explore the Sacred Valley, home to many Inca ruins and one of Peru’s most vibrant Indian markets. We will overnight at the beautiful lodge Mirador de las Incas – a private inn on the banks of the Urubamba River.

Day 4
Our trek begins this morning in a fertile valley then follows the Huaran River up through a mountain corridor. After walking for about 4 hours we arrive at Cancahacancha community with its thatch-roofed stone houses. (11,000'). We make camp outside of town. (B+L+D)

Day 5
Today we pass two brilliant, sparkling high Andean lakes, Suirococha and Yaruccocha, which is fed by a beautiful waterfall. Several bird species can be seen here including the Andean ibis, Andean geese and flamingoes. We will trek over a 14,108 foot pass, high above the clouds, with spectacular views of the massive Pituseray and Chicon glaciers. Having trekked for about 5 miles we make camp near a small village. The villagers will greet us with a traditional ritual performed to celebrate fiestas or the arrival of outsiders. A lamb will be butchered and cooked in the ancient manner. The men of the village all have specific tasks in the preparation which is accompanied by thanks to “Pachamama,” Mother Earth. This is quite an honor to participate in. (B+L+D)

Day 6
An early start will take us to the relaxing hot springs at Lares where we will pamper ourselves as we relax in the warm water. After a trek of about 4 miles we will arrive at the community of Huacawasi, where the locals are weaving beautiful garments. We will be able to observe the shearing of llamas; carding of the wool, dying it with natural colors, and the actual weaving of the cloth and into beautiful ponchos.(B+L+D)

Day 7
Early morning walk up to the Yanahuara Pass, just over 11,000 feet. The views are spectacular as we pass large rock formations, lagoons, and the snow capped Andes all around. We follow original Inca stone paths that once connected the Lares Valley with the Urubamba Valley. Our gradual descent will take us through the native community of Yanahuara in the Sacred Valley. We have now re-entered “civilization” and can now board a 15 minute bus ride to Ollantaytambo where we spend the night. Hotel Mirador de Los Incas – (B+L+D)

Day 8
Early morning train to the incredible ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. We will have all day to explore this man-made wonder of the ancient world with a knowledgeable guide that will introduce us to the fascinating city and the culture that inhabited it. A full day at Machu Picchu provides with the opportunity to hike one hour to the amazing nearby ruins of Winay Wayna or up the dizzying ladder-stairs to Huayna Picchu. We will overnight in the charming town of Aguas Calientes where you can have a well deserved soak in the local hot springs.

Day 9
The morning provides a few more hours to explore the ruins of Machu Picchu before our afternoon train back to Cusco. After checking in to the Picoaga hotel we will reconvene for a festive farewell dinner to celebrate a successful journey into the heart of the Andes!

Day 10
Fly to Lima and transfer onto International flight – If you have more time please ask about one of our trip extensions. Options include: Amazon Jungle tour, Mountain biking the Andes, Lake Titicaca, or Nazca lines.

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