Grand Andean Experience

The Grand Andean Experience combines two distinct ways of discovering the Andes in one ten-day journey.

The first days explore the Sacred Valley and Lares through cultural encounters, archaeological sites and a choice of guided hikes. The journey then continues into the Salkantay region, where guests follow a more continuous lodge-to-lodge trekking route through high-altitude landscapes, cloud forest and remote valleys before reaching Machu Picchu.

It is ideal for travelers who want both cultural immersion and a more challenging mountain adventure.

The level of activity increases gradually throughout the experience.

The Lares portion offers a choice between cultural activities, easy walks and moderate hikes of up to approximately four hours. The Salkantay portion includes several consecutive hiking days, culminating in a challenging six-hour ascent to Salkantay Pass at 4,636 m or 15,213 ft.

Previous trekking experience is not required, but a good level of fitness and preparation are strongly recommended.

Yes, during the first days of the journey.

In the Sacred Valley and Lares, guests may choose between guided hikes and cultural experiences such as visiting Pisaq, local communities, archaeological sites, artisan centers and Andean villages.

Once the Salkantay portion begins, hiking becomes the main focus of the itinerary. Some flexibility remains on selected days, including the option to skip the Day 4 introductory hike by taking transport and the optional Humantay Lake hike on Day 5.

We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before departure to begin acclimatizing.

The journey reaches several high-altitude locations, including Huacahuasi Lodge, Salkantay Lodge and Salkantay Pass.

During your first days at altitude, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, avoid excessive alcohol and limit strenuous activity. Your guides will monitor your wellbeing throughout the journey.

Ground transportation and the meals specified in the itinerary are included from the beginning of the journey until your return to Cusco.

Airport transfers and accommodations in Cusco before and after the program are not automatically included but may be arranged through your Travel Specialist.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Guests should inform their Travel Specialist of any allergies, intolerances or dietary restrictions before arriving in Peru.

You will carry only a daypack containing your water, waterproof layers, sun protection, camera and personal essentials.

We recommend bringing a duffel bag for your belongings, but if you do not have one, we will provide one for you to borrow.

Your duffel bag will be transported between lodges. For the Machu Picchu portion of the journey, train regulations permit a maximum of 10 kg or 22 lb of luggage per guest. Additional luggage can be stored securely at your hotel in Cusco.