Your journey begins at a lodge in the Tambopata National Reserve in the Peruvian Amazon. The Tambopata National Reserve and adjacent Bahuaja-Sonene National Park protect the biological diversity of the entire watersheds of the Tavara and the Candamo Rivers and most of the watershed of the Tambopata River.
Over 1,300 bird species (including 32 parrot species - 10% of the world's total), 200 mammal species, 90 frog species, 1,200 butterfly species and 10,000 species of higher plants are protected within this reserve.
From the Amazon we travel to Cusco and on to the Sacred Valley of the Incas to begin our acclimatisation and explore the Inca heartland. After visiting the colourful Indian market of Pisac drive to the Inca terraces of Moray and hike to the Sacred Valley, visiting the Maras salt pans of Maras.
After two nights in the Sacred Valley we begin the Inca Trail, one of the most famous treks in the world, which follows an ancient Inca pathway to the lost city of Machu Picchu.
The spectacular scenery on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is ever-changing as you move from the lower forests to high altitude grasslands and misty cloud forests. You pass several Inca fortresses along the way (Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayamarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Winay Wayna), and there are often awe-inspiring views across the snow-capped peaks of nearby mountains. Walking the Inca Trail can make your arrival at Machu Picchu even more spectacular and gives you a great sense of achievement.
After exploring Machu Picchu you return to Cusco and will have a full day of both guided and individual exploration to enjoy the city. Cusco is the favourite city of most visitors to Peru, as the mixture of ancient history, traditional Andean culture and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a charming place to stay.
