Around Cusco: Highlands, Sacred Valley and Amazon
Around Cusco: Highlands, Sacred Valley and Amazon
Overview
Perched on the edge of the breathtaking Apurímac Canyon, Cusco is the ultimate gateway to thrilling outdoor adventures. Among them, the renowned Choquequirao trek stands out, where unspoiled landscapes blend seamlessly with the enigmatic remnants of ancient civilizations.
But the journey doesn’t end there. Cusco also serves as the entrance to the Sacred Valley—a lush, tranquil region that gradually unfolds into the vast Amazon basin. With its stunning natural scenery and deep cultural roots, the Sacred Valley offers a profound glimpse into traditional Andean life.
For those eager to explore even further, Cusco provides seamless access to the Peruvian Highlands. Travel towards Lake Titicaca and Bolivia to witness shimmering high-altitude waters, floating islands, and a vibrant mosaic of indigenous traditions.
Leg 1 From Cusco to Santa Lucía
Leave Cusco and head south toward Puno, embarking on a scenic journey through the heart of the Andes. Your first stops include the charming villages of Andahuaylillas, Tipón, and Urcos, each offering glimpses into local traditions and colonial history. As you continue past Cusipata, cross the Chuquicahuana Bridge, where the landscape begins to shift dramatically.
Once you arrive in Pomacanchis, the route ascends, unveiling breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon. At the Quechua village of Santa Lucía, perched on the canyon’s edge, you’ll find the perfect starting point for the Waqra Pukara hike—a rewarding two-hour trek through rugged Andean terrain.
Leg 1 highlights
Helpful links
Cusco
Tipon and Pikillacta
Waqra Pukara
Leg 2 From Santa Lucía to Palcoyo
Once you have visited Waqra Pukara, drive back to Pomacanchis, retracing your route through the stunning highland landscapes. From there, you have multiple roads leading through the breathtaking 4 Lakes Valley, a region known for its pristine waters and serene beauty. Along the way, immerse yourself in traditional rural life, where warm encounters with locals offer a glimpse into centuries-old customs and picturesque Andean settings.
Return to the main Cusco-Puno road, and upon reaching Combapata, veer off into a new lateral valley toward Palccoyo. If you prefer a more comfortable night, consider camping before the ascent, where lower altitudes provide extra warmth under the starry Andean sky.
Leg 2 highlights
Helpful links
Andahuaylillas
Saylla and Chicharron
Leg 3 From Palcoyo to Pisaq
Today, you will leave the highlands behind as you descend into the fertile Sacred Valley, where the landscape transforms into lush greenery and abundant crops. Shortly after entering the valley, you will arrive in Pisac, a charming town nestled among vast cornfields and surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery.Take time to explore the archaeological site of Pisac, a stunning complex of Inca terraces, temples, and viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the valley below. Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Indian market, where local artisans display handwoven textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry, creating an authentic Andean shopping experience.
Leg 3 highlights
Leg 4 From Pisaq to Lares
Visit the Sacred Valley as you make your way to Calca, where you’ll take a right turn, ascending into the high-altitude valleys. As you gain elevation, the landscapes transform dramatically, shifting from fertile farmlands to rugged Andean terrain, leading you toward the final mountain passes before the descent into the Amazon basin.
Encircled by towering peaks, the remote village of Lares awaits. Here, you can relax in the natural hot springs, where the steaming mineral-rich waters provide a perfect respite after the journey, all while taking in the breathtaking mountain scenery.
Leg 4 highlights
Leg 5 From Lares to Illapani
Cross the last mountain pass and begin your descent into the Amazon, where the scenery transforms with every turn. As you drive toward warmer climates, the crisp Andean air gives way to a humid tropical breeze, and the highlands gradually become lush green forests.
Soon, you’ll find yourself surrounded by banana plantations, following the winding road alongside the river. The journey leads you deeper into this vibrant ecosystem until you arrive at the breathtaking Illapani Waterfalls, where cascading waters plunge into crystal-clear pools, creating a perfect spot to refresh and connect with nature.
Leg 5 highlights
Leg 6 From Illapani to Tunkimayo
Keep exploring La Convención Province, a vast region that encompasses the Amazonian lowlands of the Cusco Department. As you venture deeper, the warmer climate welcomes you with its rich biodiversity, offering the chance to spot unique wildlife, including the Gallito de las Rocas, Peru’s national bird, found exclusively in this area.
Beyond its natural wonders, the region is also a hub for cacao and coffee farming. Take the opportunity to visit local plantations, where you can learn firsthand about the cultivation, harvesting, and artisanal production of these world-renowned products, all while savoring the authentic flavors of the Peruvian Amazon.
Leg 6 highlights
Leg 7 From Tunkimayo to Santa Teresa
Leave Quillabamba this morning and begin your ascent toward Santa María, where you will turn right to Santa Teresa. As you navigate this route, drive cautiously, as the road is under constant maintenance due to frequent landslides during the rainy season. Along the way, take in the stunning views of the lush cloud forest and the dramatic changes in elevation.
Once in Santa Teresa, unwind in the hot springs, where the warm, mineral-rich waters offer a perfect break before continuing your journey.
Head toward Hidroelectrica, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you will settle in for the night, preparing for the visit of the Lost City of the Incas.
Leg 7 highlights
Leg 8 From Santa Teresa to Chinchero
Today, you leave the Amazonian lowlands behind and make your way back to the Andes! Your first challenge is reaching the Malaga Pass, the final guardian standing at 4,300 meters above sea level. As you ascend, watch the scenery transform from dense jungle to snow-capped peaks, offering breathtaking panoramic views before you begin your descent into the Sacred Valley.
Once in Urubamba, take a right turn toward the historic villages of Maras and Moray. Here, you can explore the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning network of thousands of salt pools, and the Moray terraces, an impressive agro-archaeological site once used by the Incas for experimental farming.
Leg 8 highlights
