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10 - Day experience

The Grand Andean Experience

The Grand Andean Experience is a 10-day journey that combines an exploration of the Sacred Valley and Lares regions with a 7-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

This once-in-a-lifetime journey into the sacred havens of the Incas is equal parts physical, cultural, and spiritual. The combination of inspiring hikes through magnificent landscapes and unique immersion into traditional Andean culture will afford you a profound understanding of what makes this region and its history so remarkable.  We offer guaranteed departures from Cusco several times per year from March 1st through December 31st along with lodging and other services for before and after your MLP journey.

ITINERARY

DAY 0 EVENING BRIEFING IN CUSCO

Meet your MLP guide and fellow travelers for a general trip briefing and Q&A.

    DAY 1 EXPLORING PISAQ

    Morning visit to the Pisaq market followed by an optional trek through the adjacent valley. Excursion to the Viacha community for a traditional Pachamanca lunch. Afternoon exploration of the Pisaq archaeological complex.

    ACTIVE EXCURSION:

    ACTIVITY
    HIKE

    -From the local community of Amaru to the local community of Viacha
    -Approximately 3 hours
    -Moderate to challenging
    -Highest elevation: 14,200’ / 4,328 m

    GROUP ACTIVITY
    / Visit to the community of Viacha
    / Traditional Pachamanca lunch in town
    / Exploration of the Pisaq archaeological site
    / Optional hike from Viacha to the Pisaq archaeological site

    OVERNIGHT: Lamay Lodge (9,705’ / 2,958 m)

    CULTURE EXCURSION:

    EXCURSION
    / Explore the textile center of Awanacancha
    / Visit to the town and marketplace in Pisaq
    / Short drive to the village of Viacha

    GROUP ACTIVITY
    / Visit to the community of Viacha
    / Traditional Pachamanca lunch in town
    / Exploration of the Pisaq archaeological site

    OVERNIGHT: Lamay Lodge (elevation: 9,705’ / 2,958 m)

    Highlights: Viacha | Pisaq archeological site

      DAY 2 INTO THE HEART OF LARES

      Scenic drive into the heart of Lares to the archeological site of Ancasmarca. After lunch, choose a visit to the village of Choquecancha or a hike to Huacahuasi Lodge.

      ACTIVE EXCURSION:

      GROUP ACTIVITY
      / Visit to the small town of Lamay
      / Scenic drive to Ancasmarca
      / Guided tour of the Ancasmarca archaeological site

      ACTIVITY
      HIKE
      OPTION A)
      -From Quelquena to Huacahuasi
      -Approximately 2.5 hours
      -Easy to Moderate
      -Highest elevation 12,595’ / 3,839 m

      OPTION B)
      -From Cuncani to Huacahuasi
      -Approximately 4 hours
      -Moderate
      -Highest elevation 13,838’ / 4,219 m

      OVERNIGHT: Huacahuasi Lodge (el. 12,585’ / 3,835 m)

      CULTURE EXCURSION:

      GROUP ACTIVITY
      / Visit to the small town of Lamay
      / Scenic drive to Ancasmarca
      / Guided tour of the Ancasmarca archaeological site

      EXCURSION
      / Scenic drive to the small town of Choquecancha
      / Afternoon arrival at Huacahuasi Lodge

      OVERNIGHT: Huacahuasi Lodge (el. 12,585’ / 3,835 m)

      Highlights: Ancasmarca | Choquecancha | Cuncani hike | Quelquena hike

        DAY 3 THE ROAD TO OLLANTAYTAMBO

        ACTIVE EXCURSION

        ACTIVITY HIKE

        In the morning:

        -From Huilloc to Pumamarka, stopping by the Ayar Orcco Inca Cemetery
        -Approximately 3 hours
        -Moderate

        GROUP ACTIVITY
        Visit the archaeological site of Pumamarka

        In the afternoon:

        -From Pumamarka to Ollantaytambo
        -Approximately 3 hours
        -Moderate

        OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: Enjoy a visit to an artisanal brewery that uses all locally sourced products for their beers. (subject to additional cost)

        OVERNIGHT: Hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas (el. 9,284’ / 2,830 m)

        CULTURE EXCURSION:

        EXCURSION
        / Scenic drive from Huacahuasi Lodge to Huilloc
        / Visit to a local trout farm and ceviche tasting
        / Participate in a ceremony for the good health of the community’s flock
        / Visit the archaeological site of Pumamarka
        / Visit to the “Half-Moon” terraces
        / Explore the town of Ollantaytambo

        OPTIONAL ACTIVITY:Enjoy a visit to an artisanal brewery that uses all locally sourced products for their beers. (subject to additional cost)
        OVERNIGHT: Hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas (9,284’ / 2,830 m)

          DAY 4 ON THE WAY TO SORAYPAMPA

          Morning exploration to the Quillarumiyoc archaeological en route to the mountain village of Mollepata, followed by lunch at El Pedregal. Enjoy a scenic ride on the winding mountain road to Challacancha, where you will begin your hike to Salkantay Lodge.

          ACTIVE EXCURSION:

          In the morning: In the morning: Visit Quillarumiyoc archaeological site and the village of Mollepata, stopping for a short visit to Yanapana, Mountain Lodges of Peru NGO

          In the afternoon: Hike to our flagship Salkantay Lodge at Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path)

          ACTIVITY

          HIKE

          -From Challacancha to Soraypampa
          -Approximately 3 hours
          -Easy to moderate

          OPTIONAL

          / Guests may opt out of the trek and continue by transport to Salkantay Lodge

          OVERNIGHT:

          Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869 m)

            DAY 5 HIKE TO HUMANTAY LAKE

            Half-day hike to Lake Humantay followed by lunch at Salkantay Lodge. Afternoon at leisure

            ACTIVE EXCURSION:

            In the morning: Early morning round-trip hike to the turquoise waters of Lake Humantay
            In the afternoon: Lunch at Salkantay Lodge & afternoon at leisure

            THINGS TO KNOW
            HIKE
            -From Salkantay Lodge – Lake Humantay – Salkantay Lodge
            -Approximately 4 hours
            -Moderate
            Please note: The morning hike to Lake Humantay is optional; however, we strongly recommend that you participate in preparation for the strenuous hike on Day 6.

            OPTIONAL
            / Afternoon horseback riding at Soraypampa (subject to additional cost)

            OVERNIGHT: Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869 m)

              DAY 6 CROSSING THE SALKANTAY PASS

              Journey over the Salkantay Pass to Wayra Lodge. Lunch on route.

              ACTIVE EXCURSION:

              In the morning: Journey through the Salkantay River valley as you begin your climb to the Salkantay Pass

              In the afternoon: After marveling at the majesty of the Salkantay Peak & patting yourselves on the back for a job well-done, enjoy lunch on the mountain before heading down to Wayraccmachay

              THINGS TO KNOW

              HIKE

              -From Soraypampa over the Salkantay Peak to Wayraccmachay
              -Approximately 7 hours
              -Challenging
              -Salkantay Mountain pass at 15,213’/ 4,640 m

              OVERNIGHT:
              Wayra Lodge (12,812’ / 3,906 m)

                DAY 7 DESCENDING INTO THE CLOUD FOREST

                Descent to Collpapampa along the Salkantay River. Traditional Pachamanca lunch at Colpa Lodge.

                ACTIVE EXCURSION:

                In the morning: Begin your descent into the cloud forest on the way to Colpa Lodge
                In the afternoon: Upon arrival, the staff will be waiting for us with a traditional Pachamanca lunch; afternoon at leisure

                THINGS TO KNOW
                HIKE
                -From Wayraccmachay to Collpapampa
                -Approximately 4 hours
                -Easy to moderate

                OPTIONAL
                / Mountain bike ride
                (subject to additional cost)

                -From Machaywacco to Collpapampa
                -Approximately 3 hours
                -Easy

                OVERNIGHT: Colpa Lodge (9,414’ / 2,870 m)

                  DAY 8 FOLLOWING THE SANTA TERESA RIVER VALLEY

                  Hike through rural areas on the way to Lucma Lodge. Picnic lunch en route followed by a tour of a local coffee plantation.

                  ACTIVE EXCURSION:

                  In the morning: Descend along the Santa Teresa River towards Lucmabamba
                  In the afternoon: Picnic lunch along the river, followed by a short hike & van ride; afternoon visit to a local coffee plantation before arrival

                  THINGS TO KNOW
                  HIKE

                  -From Collpapampa to Lucmabamba
                  -Approximately 6 hours
                  -Moderate to challenging

                  OPTIONAL
                  Zip Line in Santa Teresa: This is a full day activity that replaces the hike (subject to additional cost)

                  Mountain biking:
                  (subject to additional cost)

                  OPTION A)
                  -From the Yanama Pass through Hornopampa to Lluskamayo
                  -Approximately 5 hours
                  -Easy to moderate

                  OPTION B)
                  -Descent from Hornopampa to Lluskamayo
                  -Approximately 3.5 hours
                  -Easy
                  please note: Guests may opt out of the trek and continue by transport to the lodge

                  OVERNIGHT: Lucma Lodge (7,003’ / 2,135 m)

                    DAY 9 EXPLORING THE LLACTAPATA PASS

                    Travel uphill to the Llactapata Pass for a seldom-seen view of Machu Picchu. Lunch en route followed by a descent to the Aobamba river. Train to Aguas Calientes (30 mins). Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

                    ACTIVE EXCURSION:

                    In the morning: Travel uphill through the cloud forest to the Llactapata Pass for a seldom-seen view of Machu Picchu.
                    In the afternoon: Lunch en route followed by a winding descent to the Aobamba River valley, ending the day with a 30 minute train ride to Aguas Calientes

                    THINGS TO KNOW
                    HIKE

                    -From Lucmabamba to Hidroelectrica train station
                    -Approximately 5 hours
                    -Moderate to challenging

                    OPTIONAL
                    / Guests may opt out of the trek and continue by transport to the train station

                    OVERNIGHT: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,232’ / 1,900 m)

                      DAY 10 THE CITADEL OF MACHU PICCHU

                      ACTIVE EXCURSION:

                      In the morning: Early morning guided tour of Machu Picchu followed by free time for further exploration.

                      In the afternoon: Lunch in Aguas Calientes; afternoon train ride and van transport back to Cusco (11,021’ / 3,360 m)

                      THING TO KNOW
                      HIKE

                      -The citadel of Machu Picchu has many steps and uphill climbs
                      -Approximately 4 hours
                      -Machu Picchu: Easy to moderate

                      OPTIONAL
                      / Hike up Huayna Picchu*

                      **Note: Tickets for Huayna Picchu Mt. (8,924’ / 2,720m) may be available subject to additional cost. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, you may opt for a hike up Machu Picchu Mt. (10,112 / 3,082m), located next to the Machu Picchu Citadel on the southern side. Please consult with your MLP Travel Specialist for detailed information.

                        MAP

                        Our mountain lodges, each uniquely conceived through thoughtful architectural design that includes traditional Inca building techniques and a nod to their respective environments. We offer all the comforts of home along with top-notch amenities and exceptional service.

                        Spots to relax and meditate abound at each lodge: welcoming patios, private guest room balconies, fire pits, and outdoor hot tubs…all with inspiring views of the region

                        Our excellent lodge menus are comprised of traditional recipes with an innovative neo-Andean cuisine flair. Every ingredient is locally sourced with an emphasis on farm-to-table sustainability.

                        Our local staff provides detailed service and care from the moment you arrive…warm towels and refreshments in the afternoons…hot water bottles and herb-infused pillows at night…our goal is to make you feel at home.

                        Our Lamay Lodge is an idyllic hideaway in the Sacred Valley town of the same name. Resplendent sun and green, flower-dotted gardens with picturesque pastoral views create a calming sensation that envelops you from the moment you arrive. The outdoor hot tub and firepit in the center garden are welcoming spaces to gather, as are the cozy indoor nooks. (9,721’/2,963m)

                        Our Huacahuasi Lodge, an imposing structure built on the side of a hill adjacent to its namesake town, was designed to showcase the dramatic views of the valley and beyond with its soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Each of the luxury guestrooms is equipped with a private outdoor jacuzzi for relaxing while you take in dramatic sunsets and star-filled evening skies. (12,599’/3,840m)

                        Our flagship Salkantay Lodge was built on the flatlands of the Rio Blanco river valley, with a stunning, unobstructed view of the majestic Salkantay mountain peak. Its contemporary, eco-conscious design was the inspiration for all other MLP lodges. (12,690’/3,869 m)

                        Wayra Lodge, a cozy mountain refuge with dramatic views of Mt. Humantay, is the most remote of our MLP lodges – and a welcome sight after a long day of trekking over the SalkantayPass. (12,812’/3,906m)

                        Surrounded by lush green mountains in a cloud forest, our Colpa Lodge is situated on a promontory at the confluence of three rivers. Sun-drenched in the afternoons, it is the perfect spot to relax or to soak in our outdoor hot tub. (9,414’/2,870m)

                        Situated in a lush avocado orchard at the edge of the Amazon jungle, our charming Lucma Lodge resembles a contemporary treehouse . The view through the multi-pane windows that stretch almost to the ceiling will give you the sensation of living amidst the beautiful foliage that surrounds you. (7,003’/2,135m)

                        RATE

                        US$ 4,500
                        March 1st – March 31st
                        November 1st – December 14th
                        Green Season

                        US$ 5,500
                        April 1 – October 31
                        & December 15 – 31
                        High Season

                        Additional Lodging and Transportation Packages/Options

                        MLP recommends arriving in Cusco 1-2 days prior to the start of your adventure to get comfortable with the altitude while you explore this fascinating historical city. You may also want to consider spending and extra day at Machu Picchu during your journey.

                        Option A

                        • One (1) additional night at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, including dinner and breakfast & lunch the next day
                        • One (1) single-entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
                        • Round-trip shuttle bus transportation from Aguas Calientes
                        • Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco

                        From $395 USD per person
                        (based on double occupancy)

                        Option B

                        • One (1) additional night at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, including dinner and breakfast & lunch the next day
                        • Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco

                        From $290 USD per person
                        (based on double occupancy)

                        Option C

                        • One (1) additional night at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, including dinner and breakfast & lunch the next day

                        From $235 USD per person
                        (based on double occupancy)

                        Additional room categories are available—please ask your MLP travel specialist for more details.

                        Package 1

                        • Round-trip Cusco airport transfers
                        • Two (2) nights lodging at MLP´s Cusco boutique hotel property before your MLP adventure
                        • One (1) night lodging at MLP´s Cusco boutique hotel property upon return to Cusco
                        • Additional Day at Machu Picchu – Option A:
                        • One (1) additional night at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, including dinner and breakfast & lunch the next day
                        • One (1) single-entrance ticket and round-trip shuttle bus transportation from Aguas Calientes
                        • Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco

                        From $705 USD per person
                        (based on double occupancy)

                        Package 2

                        • Round-trip Cusco airport transfers
                        • Two (2) nights lodging at MLP´s Cusco boutique hotel property before or after your MLP adventure
                        • Additional Day at Machu Picchu – Option A:
                        • One (1) additional night at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, including dinner and breakfast & lunch the next day
                        • One (1) single-entrance ticket and round-trip shuttle bus transportation from Aguas Calientes
                        • Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco

                        From $610 USD per person
                        (based on double occupancy)

                        Package 3

                        • Round-trip Cusco airport transfers
                        • Three (3) nights lodging at MLP´s Cusco boutique hotel property before or after your MLP adventure

                        From $310 USD
                        (based on double occupancy)

                         

                        Additional hotel options/categories available—please ask your MLP travel specialist for more details.

                        For New Reservations Only

                        DETAILS:

                        ● 10D/9N round-trip itinerary
                        ● Rates are per person based on shared accommodations
                        ● Single traveler accommodation request: Subject to s 50% supplemental charge
                        ● Single traveler willing to share: No additional charge at MLP Lodges. A supplementary charge will apply at our affiliate hotels in the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes
                        ● A non-refundable deposit of US$500 per person is required to confirm a reservation
                        ● We recommend arriving in Cusco 1-2 days prior to your departure date for altitude acclimatization
                        ● Please review our full Terms and Conditions.

                        SERVICES INCLUDE:

                        ● Private group transportation during all program days
                        ● All meals except breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day of the program
                        ● Bilingual guide (Spanish/English) during all program days. Tours are led in English.
                        ● Entrance fees and permits to points of interest and archeological sites
                        ● Guided visit to Machu Picchu (including entrance fee and transportation to site)
                        ● Train service to Aguas Calientes
                        ● All Meals and beverages including soft drinks and a house selection of beer, wine, and spirits at MLP lodges only.
                        ● Gratuities for lodge staff and logistics personnel. Note: Gratuities for your guide are not included and are at your discretion. Feel free to follow the “Gratuities” guidelines in our FAQ’s.