Extraordinary Peru
Extraordinary Peru – Adventure in the heart of the Andes
Gentle adventure, wide open spaces and breathtaking views.
An itinerary for those who want to do a little more: walking, paddling, climbing… without sacrificing comfort. Between bohemian Lima, Andean lagoons, the ascent to Machu Picchu via the shorter version of the Inca Trail, and a hike to the multicolored mountains of Palccoyo, this trip combines gentle adrenaline, culture, and spectacular landscapes – with top-notch hotels at every stage.
Key information
Approximate duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Stages: Lima – Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Travel style: Adventure & wide open spaces, high-end comfort
Pace: moderate to strenuous (several active days at altitude)
Season: ideally from April to November (adaptable for the rest of the year)
For whom: couples, friends or families with teenagers who enjoy walking and trying out outdoor activities
Who is this trip for?
For those who want to be a bit more active: walking, paddling, quad biking… without sacrificing hotel comfort
For travellers who dream of vast Andean landscapes and spectacular viewpoints, far from the crowds.
For people who have already been to Peru and want to go beyond the classic itinerary.
For nature lovers who appreciate a well-organised trip, with guides, private transfers and security, while still having free time.
Highlights of the trip
Lima, a capital between history and creation : discover the colonial center (Plaza Mayor, Cathedral, private historic house) then immerse yourself in the bohemian district of Barranco, between art galleries, urban artworks and contemporary workshops.
First steps in the Sacred Valley : visit to an Andean textile center with llamas & alpacas, demonstration of weaving and natural dyeing, then lunch in a family hacienda around the products of the valley.
Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Piuray lagoon : morning on a high-altitude lagoon, supervised by a specialist team, followed by an Andean picnic by the water.
Day trip on quad bikes in Maras & Moray : ATV/quad bike tour to the impressive salt mines of Maras and the circular site of Moray, then discovery of the fortress of Ollantaytambo, last Inca stronghold.
Inca Trail “short version” : train to km 104, walk on a portion of the mythical Inca Trail, visit to the Chachabamba site and arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), with a plunging view of the citadel.
Machu Picchu in depth : second day dedicated to the guided tour of the citadel, with the possibility (subject to availability) of climbing Huayna Picchu for a panoramic view.
Cusco, Andean capital : visit to the main sites of the city and its surroundings (Sacsayhuamán, Koricancha, historical and artisanal districts).
Hiking in Palccoyo, the multicolored mountains : day in the Ausangate region, accessible walk on a stone path to the three rainbow mountains of Palccoyo, with picnic and spectacular viewpoints.
Route overview
Day 1 – Lima
Arrival in Lima, airport pick-up and private transfer to the hotel. Free time to relax.
Day 2 – Lima
Visit to the colonial city: Plaza Mayor, Cathedral, private historic house, then discovery of Barranco, bohemian and artistic district, with its galleries and its atmosphere facing the ocean.
Day 3 – Lima → Cusco → Sacred Valley
Flight to Cusco, direct transfer to the Sacred Valley. Visit to an Andean textile center, meeting with weavers, llamas & alpacas, then lunch at a family hacienda. Overnight in the valley.
Day 4 – Sacred Valley
Morning kayaking or paddleboarding on the Piuray lagoon, supervised by specialists, followed by a picnic on the lake shores. Return to the hotel and free afternoon in the valley.
Day 5 – Sacred Valley
Full day quad biking: Maras salt mines, Moray archaeological site, then a visit to the Ollantaytambo fortress. Return to the hotel at the end of the day.
Day 6 – Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail (short)
Train to km 104, hike on the short section of the Inca Trail, visit sites along the way, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Overnight stay in the village of Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Day 7 – Machu Picchu → Cusco
Day two at Machu Picchu: in-depth guided tour, and the option (by reservation) to climb Huayna Picchu. In the afternoon, return train and then transfer to Cusco.
Day 8 – Cusco
Visit the main sites of Cusco and its surroundings: Sacsayhuamán, Koricancha, churches and historic alleyways, San Blas district. Free time at the end of the day for strolling or shopping.
Day 9 – Cusco & Palccoyo
Day trip to Palccoyo, the multicolored mountains: travel by road, easy walk on a stone path, several viewpoints and picnic with views of the peaks. Return to Cusco at the end of the day.
Day 10 – Cusco
Free day to explore the city at your own pace, enjoy cafes, markets and artisans, or add an optional activity.
Day 11 – Cusco → Departure
Private transfer to Cusco airport for the flight to Lima, then connection with your international flight.
– End of the journey –
Included / Not Included
Included in this standard program
Travel coordination with Qhanati (based in Switzerland).
All private transfers between airports, hotels and train stations.
Accommodation in a selection of boutique or superior category hotels in Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu Pueblo and Cusco.
The excursions and experiences mentioned: visits to Lima and Cusco, kayaking/paddleboarding on the Piuray lagoon, quad biking day trip to Maras & Moray, short section of the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, day trip to Palccoyo, etc.
Train tickets to Machu Picchu and buses to access the site.
Several meals included (breakfasts, picnics, lunches or dinners depending on the version chosen).
Not included
International and domestic flights (which Qhanati can arrange on request).
Travel insurance.
Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages, meals not mentioned.
Optional activities, additional nights, hotel upgrades or very specific requests.
Early check-in / late check-out depending on flight schedules.
Want to experience a more adventurous Peru?