The day begins with a 4 AM pickup from Cusco for a three-hour drive to Pukutuni School at 4,200 m (13,779 ft), where breakfast is served and the trekking team is introduced. From there, a three-hour hike leads to Upis village at the base of Ausangate Mountain for lunch, followed by a 1.5-hour uphill climb to Vicuña Pass, the highest point of the day at 4,850 m (15,912 ft). After enjoying the views, the trek continues with a three-hour descent and hike to the evening campsite at Pucaccocha, situated at 4,600 m (15,091 ft). The day ends with a warm meal and rest under the stars at camp. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation Gain: +650m (+2,132 ft) -250m (-820 ft) | Time: 7.5 hours

Early breakfast at Pucaccocha (4,600 m / 15,091 ft), followed by a 2-hour uphill climb to Condor Pass (4,900 m / 16,076 ft), offering breathtaking views of Ausangate Mountain and nearby lagoons. From the pass, it’s a 2-hour gradual descent to the lunch spot. Afterward, a short climb leads to Alpaca Pass (4,950 m / 16,240 ft), the highest point of the day and the first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain. A final 1-hour downhill trek brings you to your evening campsite near Sororni Lake (4,700 m / 15,419 ft), where the team prepares your evening meal and you can relax beneath a sky full of stars. Distance: 8 km (4.97 mi) | Elevation Gain: +350m (+1,148 ft) -250m (-820 ft) | Time: 5 hours

The day starts with an early breakfast at the Soroni Lake campsite (4,700 m / 15,419 ft), followed by a 2-hour gradual uphill hike to the iconic Rainbow Mountain (5,030 m / 16,502 ft). After enjoying the scenery and taking photos, you’ll hike 1 hour downhill to the end of the trail. From there, it’s time to bid farewell to your trekking team and begin a 4-hour drive to Ollantaytambo for dinner, before catching the 7 p.m. train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll relax with a hot shower and a comfortable hotel stay. Distance: 6 km (3.73 mi) | Elevation Gain: +330m (+1,083 ft) -330m (-1,083 ft) | Time: 3 hours

Today is the highlight of your Peru adventure: exploring the legendary Machu Picchu. It’s essential to book entrance tickets well in advance, especially for Circuit 2, which offers the best panoramic views and access to key sites. After an early breakfast, you’ll leave your main bags at the hotel and take a 25-minute bus ride to the citadel. The guided tour lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours, covering temples, terraces, and sacred spots, with time for photos and a brief period of free exploration. Those with Huayna Picchu permits will tackle its steep climb for spectacular views. After the visit, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo and then a private transfer to Cusco, typically arriving by 8 PM. Note: Book early to secure the best circuits and optional hikes like Huayna Picchu.