Curator’s statement
I was born and raised in Arequipa, just a few hours from Cusco by car. Growing up, I spent countless weekends exploring the Sacred Valley with my family, creating a lifelong connection to this breathtaking region. Whether it’s navigating the vibrant chaos of the San Pedro Market or dining at fine restaurants like Chicha Cusco, I’ve experienced the city from every angle. After so many visits, I know the route to Machu Picchu by heart—from rugged treks through the Andes to serene, glass-domed luxury train rides. I can’t wait to help you experience it your way.
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Day 1: A slow & serene start in Cusco
A peaceful afternoon in the artisan heart of Cusco—San Blas square, where culture, mountains, and local charm meet.
Touch down in Cusco and take it easy as your body adjusts to the altitude (approximately 11,000 feet). Sip coca tea at your hotel, settle into your luxurious surroundings, and take a short walk through the historic center. Visit the Plaza de Armas and peek inside the cathedral, but save the heavy sightseeing for later.
Dinner should be light: Green Point offers chic plant-based dishes, while Cicciolina serves elegant Andean tapas. Hydration and rest are key today—your journey is just beginning.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: Many luxury hotels offer oxygen-enriched rooms or in-room oxygen tanks—request one if needed.
Day 2: Explore Cusco in style
Qoricancha, once the Inca Empire’s most sacred temple, where ancient stone meets European splendor in the heart of Cusco.
Wake up refreshed and ready to uncover Cusco’s layers of history. Start with a guided walking tour of Qoricancha (the Inca Temple of the Sun), then wander through San Pedro Market for colorful stalls and fresh juice. Continue into San Blas, where artisans and boutiques line the charming hillside streets.
If you’re acclimating well, venture to Sacsayhuamán, the impressive Incan fortress just above the city. For dinner, make a reservation at Chicha by Gastón Acurio—refined, rooted, and a true Cusco gem.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: Reserve ahead for fine dining; for markets, just go—and bring cash for the small stalls.
Day 3: Sacred Valley escape
The iconic agricultural terraces of Pisac—where Incan ingenuity meets breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
Descend into the Sacred Valley, a peaceful and fertile region that was once the heart of Incan agriculture. Stop at Awanacancha to meet llamas, alpacas, and local weavers. In Pisac, browse handmade textiles and silver in the market or explore the mountaintop ruins with sweeping valley views.
Lunch at El Huacatay in Urubamba offers a serene garden setting and modern Andean cuisine. Check in to your luxury lodge—Sol y Luna or Explora—and enjoy the quiet hum of the valley as the sun sets.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: Bring small bills for market shopping in Pisac, and don’t be afraid to negotiate gently—it’s part of the experience.
Day 4: Sacred geometry & elevated flavors
The salt terraces of Maras—a stunning patchwork of ancient pools still harvested by hand in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Begin with a private visit to Moray, a mysterious Incan site of circular agricultural terraces, then head to the shimmering white salt ponds of Maras—still harvested today as they were centuries ago.
Next: a once-in-a-lifetime lunch at MIL, the award-winning restaurant by Virgilio Martínez, perched high above the Sacred Valley. Expect an eight-course tasting menu that highlights local ecosystems, ancient techniques, and stunning presentation.
End the day exploring Ollantaytambo, a perfectly preserved Incan town with a towering fortress. Spend the night nearby—or prepare for something wild.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: The sun can be strong even at high altitude—wear sunscreen and a hat during visits to Moray and Maras.
Day 5: Hanging between heaven & earth
Skylodge Adventure Suites—a once-in-a-lifetime stay suspended on the cliffside of the Sacred Valley, where luxury meets pure adrenaline.
If you’re craving adventure, today’s your moment: Skylodge Adventure Suites. Climb the mountain via ferrata or hike and zip-line to your glass pod suspended 1,300 feet above the Sacred Valley. From inside your capsule, take in 360-degree views, stargaze in bed, and toast to life with a candlelit dinner in the sky.
Not for the faint of heart—but absolutely unforgettable.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: Bring a small overnight bag. Luggage can be stored at the base.
Day 6: First glimpse of Machu Picchu
A breathtaking view through the Sun Gate—the ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu and one of its most awe-inspiring perspectives.
Descend from Skylodge by zip-line and board your luxury train (Vistadome or Belmond Hiram Bingham) to Aguas Calientes. Check into the Sanctuary Lodge or Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, then take the bus up to Machu Picchu for your first visit.
This afternoon, walk Circuit 1 or 2 with a private guide. See the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana Stone, and take that iconic postcard photo. Soak in the stillness before heading back down for a relaxing night.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: The first visit to Machu Picchu is best enjoyed slowly—focus on the main circuit, take breaks, and let your guide set the pace to avoid altitude fatigue.
Day 7: Conquer the sacred peak
The view from Huayna Picchu—an unforgettable panorama of Machu Picchu nestled among the peaks and rivers of the Andes.
Return to the citadel early for your second entrance—this time, to climb Huayna Picchu, the towering mountain that frames Machu Picchu. The trail is steep and thrilling, but the views from the top are beyond rewarding.
Descend slowly, enjoy a final walk through the ruins, and return to Aguas Calientes. Catch an afternoon train back to Cusco and unwind at your hotel.
A note from Fabricio
Tip: Huayna Picchu permits are limited. I’ll secure yours in advance and coordinate all entry times.
Day 8: Choose your own ending
The vibrant layers of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)—a high-altitude marvel and one of Peru’s most colorful natural wonders.
Option A: Rainbow Mountain
Wake before dawn for a full-day guided hike to Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain. At 17,000 feet, this colorful marvel is for the truly adventurous
Option B: Spa & culture in Cusco
Enjoy a slow final day with a luxury spa treatment, brunch in San Blas, or last-minute shopping for alpaca knits, ceramics, and handmade treasures. End your journey with a farewell dinner at MAP Café or Limo, where the food is as artistic as the views.
Need to know
This itinerary is fully customizable and can be adapted to suit your travel rhythm. Want to stay longer in Cusco? Add more spa time? Take it slower with fewer transfers? Done. Whether you're traveling solo, celebrating a honeymoon, or ticking off lifelong dreams, I’ll tailor it to fit your style.
Language: Spanish is the main language. English is spoken in tourist areas, but having a private guide is recommended—especially if you don’t speak Spanish.
Money: Bring Peruvian soles for markets and tips. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants. Always carry some cash in rural areas.
Transport: Use hotel-arranged taxis or trusted apps. Avoid street taxis. For the Sacred Valley, a private driver ensures safety and comfort.
Safety: Stay alert in busy places. Don’t flash valuables. Use a money belt or secure crossbody bag. Avoid unlicensed tours or street vendors.
Tickets: Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and train rides need advance booking. I can help manage permits and times to match your pace.
Altitude: Take it slow your first day in Cusco. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and sip coca or muña tea.
Shopping: Bargain gently in markets. Avoid overpriced souvenirs. I can recommend authentic artisan shops.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is common in hotels. Consider a local SIM or eSIM for better mobile service while traveling.
Travel Advisor
Fabricio Luna
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