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10 - Day experience

Black Diamond Trek to Machu Picchu

An advanced-level trekking journey from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco all the way to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.

An Amazing Adventure Awaits

Seeking off-the-beaten path trails and the ultimate hiking challenge? Join us on this unique 10-day, 75-mile trek that takes you from the heart of Cusco to Machu Picchu along less-traveled mountain paths, and through traditional villages and remote archaeological sites. Along the way we mix luxury camping & mountain lodges, with the support of experienced guides and staff. Don’t miss the trek of a lifetime!

We offer guaranteed departures from Cusco several times per week 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 Piuray

    • Hike from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco to Piuray Lake.
    • Explore the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site.
    • Picnic lunch at Senqa Mountain en route to the Piuray campsite.

    Overnight: Premium camping at Lake Piuray

      DAY 2 Huchuyqosqo

      • Early-morning kayak excursion across Piuray Lake.
      • Hike to Huchuyqosqo and exploration of the archaeological site.
      • Downhill hike to Lamay Lodge in the Sacred Valley.

      Optional activities: Morning bike ride to Huchuyqosqo instead of the kayak excursion.

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

        DAY 3 Pisaq

        • Hike from Amaru to Viacha.
        • Visit the Pisaq archaeological site.
        • Traditional Pachamanca dinner at lodge.

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

          DAY 4 Cancha Cancha

          • Drive to the town of Huaran in the Sacred Valley.
          • All-day hike to Cancha Cancha along a traditional Inca trail.
          • Trip briefing and dinner around the campfire.

          Overnight: Premium camping at Cancha Cancha

            DAY 5 Hike to Humantay Lake

            • Morning hike up to the Pachacuteq Pass.
            • Hike down to Quiswarani.

            Overnight: Premium camping at Quiswarani

              DAY 6 Huacahuasi

              • Morning hike to the Sonqococha Lagoon.
              • Hike to Huacahuasi Lodge through Quelquena.

              Overnight: Huacahuasi Lodge (12,585’ / 3,835m)

                DAY 7 Jaukani

                • Visit to a remote traditional weavers village.
                • Hike to Jaukani.
                • Drive back to Huacahuasi.

                Overnight: Huacahuasi Lodge (12,585’ / 3,835m)

                  DAY 8 Ollantaytambo

                  • Hike from Huacahuasi to Patacancha.
                  • Scenic drive from Patacancha to Pumamarka for lunch and guided exploration of archaeological site.
                  • Hike along Ollantaytambo.

                  Overnight: El Albergue

                    DAY 9 The Sun Gate

                    • Early-morning train from Ollantaytambo to the KM 104 marker along the rail route.
                    • Full-day hike along the classic Inca Trail through Winay Wayna to the Sun Gate entrance of Machu Picchu.
                    • Shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu.

                    Overnight: Partner hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,693’/2,040m)

                      DAY 10 The citadel of Machu Picchu

                      • Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
                      • Free time for further exploration or a hike up Huayna Picchu (subject to additional cost).
                      • Scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo.
                      • Vehicle transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

                        Accommodations

                        During the Black Diamond Trek, your accommodations will include a combination of premium camping installations, top-notch MLP-affiliate hotels, and MLP lodges with all of the comforts of home and exceptional service for which we are known.

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