14-Day Slow Cusco Tour: Trekking, Andean Immersion & Machu Picchu
In summary
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Sports
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Duration14 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationAmerica / Peru
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AgeFrom 7 - 79 years
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CO₂-Emissions237.68 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
Spanish
English
In a few words
Discover the soul of Peru with the "Slow Cusco" tour, a 14-day journey designed for nature lovers and those seeking authenticity . In a small group of no more than 12 travelers, this itinerary prioritizes a relaxed pace and deep cultural immersion, led by French-speaking local guides .
This adventure perfectly balances the treasures of the Inca Empire —the imperial city of Cusco and the unmissable Machu Picchu —with unspoiled , off-the-beaten-path experiences. Take time to explore spectacular landscapes on an immersive trek to the little-known site of Huchuy Qosqo , then follow the coffee and cacao route to Huayopata, on the edge of the Amazon.
The human experience remains central to the journey thanks to authentic nights spent with local families , getting up close to Andean communities . A meaningful itinerary, perfect for reconnecting with what truly matters and experiencing the Andes in a different way.
The highlights
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Intimate trek to Huchuy Qosqo and authentic nights spent with local families
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Visit to the mythical Machu Picchu and exploration of the Sacred Valley
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Amazonian immersion on the coffee and cocoa route in Huayopata
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
You will have some time to acclimatize before starting the hikes in the highlands of Peru.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average distance/day: 8 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 220 m
- Average daily descent: 211 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
Spanish
English
Aquino is the guide who has collaborated with our agency the longest. Originally from the Cusco region, his native language is Quechua, and he also speaks Spanish and French. Passionate about nature and Inca culture, he enjoys accompanying our travelers and sharing his profound knowledge of his country with them. Curious and an explorer at heart, he regularly travels throughout Peru in search of new routes still untouched by mass tourism.
With Aquino, you feel safe throughout the journey, and his contagious good humor helps you to cross the most demanding passes with a smile.
(subject to availability)
Program
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Welcome to Cusco and acclimatization in the ancient Inca capital
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 7km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival at the airport and private transfer to your hotel located in the historic center. Enjoy this first day to rest and gently acclimatize to the altitude of the legendary city of Cusco.
Day 1 -
Free day in Cusco to stroll at your own pace
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Enjoy a completely free acclimatization day to stroll through the cobbled streets of the imperial city.
A Peruvian cooking class , the Tasty Pass gourmet passport in the city center, or a day trip through the colorful mountains of Palcoyo?
Our local team remains at your disposal to advise you on the best places or to organize a tailor-made activity according to your wishes.
Day 2 -
An immersive tour of Cusco, from the Qorikancha temple to the Inca alleyways
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 8km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 8 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Immerse yourself in history on a guided tour in French of the 4 ruins of Cusco and then the historic center . You will explore the magnificent Inca temples overlooking the city as well as the legendary Qorikancha complex , before strolling through the cobbled streets lined with original Inca walls.
Day 3 -
Off-the-beaten-path hike from Yuncaypata to Inkilltambo
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 8km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Distance 5 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Departure for the village of Yuncaypata for an easy downhill Andean hike. You will traverse typical rural landscapes before exploring the little-known ruins of Inkilltambo . The excursion concludes with a friendly picnic in the heart of nature before returning to Cusco.
Day 4 -
Start of the trek to Huchuy Qosqo and evening with locals in Patabamba
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 8km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h30
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 675 m
- Negative elevation 675 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Begin your trek from Tambomachay with a scenic 4.5-hour hike to the Queullacocha Pass. You'll reach the village of Patabamba in 4 hours, where you'll be welcomed by Rosalio and his family . There, you'll enjoy an authentic Pachamanca , a traditional dish cooked underground, during your first night with a local family.
Day 5 -
Balcony of the Sacred Valley, canyon and arrival at "Little Cusco"
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 645 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, you'll hike facing the snow-capped peaks from the spectacular balcony of the Sacred Valley . You'll cross the impressive León Punku canyon and then follow a genuine section of the Inca Trail to reach the ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, before a cozy night at Natividad's.
Day 6 -
Ascent of the Tauca pass, Piuray lagoon and stopover in Chinchero
- Transportation Car - 00h15 - 8km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 800 m
- Negative elevation 575 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The effort culminates with the ascent of the Tauca Pass at 4,435 m , offering a magnificent view of the Andes. The descent takes you to the peaceful shores of the Piuray Lagoon , to the traditional village of Chinchero where you settle in for the night with Sonia's family .
Day 7 -
Treasures of the Sacred Valley: Moray, Maras salt mines and Ollantaytambo
- Transportation Car - 01h40 - 72km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h30
- Distance 5 km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Discover the ingenious Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray, then the dazzling salt mines of Maras . After a beautiful hike down into the valley, you will explore the imposing strategic fortress of Ollantaytambo , an Inca village frozen in time.
Day 8 -
Amazonian immersion and discovery of the coffee route in Huayopata
- Transportation Car - 02h30 - 108km
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Head to the edge of the Amazon! In Huayopata, you'll be welcomed by Julia and her family amidst lush vegetation. You'll spend the afternoon exploring the plantations, discovering the Peruvian coffee production process , from harvesting to enjoying your own cup, before spending the night there.
Day 9 -
Peruvian cacao cultivation and jungle trekking towards Aguas Calientes
- Transportation Car - 01h30 - 44km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 10 km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The morning is dedicated to learning about traditional cacao cultivation in family fields. At midday, you'll join Hidroelectrica for a fascinating 3.5-hour hike along the railway tracks , through the heart of the rainforest, to the village of Aguas Calientes.
Day 10 -
The highlight of the trip: a visit to the mythical Machu Picchu and a train ride to Pisac
- Transportation 01h30 - 43km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 5 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The culmination of your adventure: a guided tour of Machu Picchu (Circuit 2) in French. You'll explore the temples and agricultural terraces of this Wonder of the World in perfect harmony with nature. After the descent, a scenic train ride will take you back down to the Sacred Valley and the village of Pisac.
Day 11 -
The magnificent ruins of Pisac, its traditional market, and return to Cusco
- Transportation Car - 01h - 34km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 8 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Explore the majestic Inca ruins of Pisac overlooking the valley, before a scenic 2-hour hike back down to the village. Enjoy some time strolling through the colorful aisles of the Andean artisan market , then continue your journey back to Cusco.
Day 12 -
Free day in Cusco for shopping or a last-minute excursion
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
A Peruvian cooking class , the Tasty Pass gourmet passport in the city center, or a day trip through the colorful mountains of Palcoyo?
Our local team remains at your disposal to advise you on the best places or to organize a tailor-made activity according to your wishes.
Day 13 -
End of the Slow Cusco tour and flight to Lima
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 7km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Depending on your domestic flight schedule, enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Cusco airport . You'll fly to Lima, your head filled with Andean memories, marking the end of your magnificent adventure in Peru.
Day 14
Accommodation
Access
This trip can be combined with another trip that we suggest to enjoy 3 weeks in Peru.
Go to the starting point
We can help you arrange your flight or transfer to Lima and Cusco.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip as described in the itinerary
- Supervision by a guide
- The services of local teams (guides, drivers, muleteers, etc.)
- Hotel nights, as described, based on double occupancy
- Transportation necessary for the smooth running of the trip (taxis, buses, trains, flights)
- The entrance fees for the activities mentioned
The price does not include
- International flights to and from the starting point of the tour.
- Domestic flights unless otherwise stated.
- Airport taxes during the trip.
- Your mandatory travel insurance (accident, repatriation)
- What is not mentioned in the "included/price includes" section
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before you leave, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website (https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Tourist season
The climate varies considerably depending on the region. From April to November, the skies are generally clear, although light rain is still possible. At higher altitudes, the days are pleasant and the nights are cold. Pack warm clothing, although you might be able to walk around in a t-shirt during the day. Be careful of the strong sun at higher altitudes, and bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Customs formalities
No visa is required for stays of less than 90 days. A passport valid for at least six months after the end of the stay is required.
Health
When visiting high-altitude regions, some people experience adverse effects such as headaches, nausea, insomnia, and fatigue. However, the journey is designed to allow our bodies to gradually adapt (increasing red blood cell count).
All major cities have modern private clinics offering care comparable to that available in Europe. However, you must pay on-site and then claim reimbursement from your health insurance provider.
We advise you to check if your insurance covers medical expenses in the countries you will be visiting and, if not, to take out a policy. Repatriation insurance is mandatory.
Currency / Credit cards
Dollars and euros are accepted in shops in major cities. Currency exchange offices are widely available. However, it's best not to carry large sums of money.
Credit cards are accepted at all ATMs (Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, American Express). ATM fees range from 5 to 10 USD.
Vaccines
You must be up-to-date with Tetanus, Hepatitis and Typhoid (Yellow Fever if visiting the Amazon).
All services (including hotels) are subject to availability. In case of unavailability, alternatives will be offered.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Mini first aid kit
- Waterproof backpack or backpack with rain cover
- Thin bath towel
- Camera, smartphone, charger
- Water purification tablets
- Power bank, padlock, travel adapter
- Sunscreen, lip balm
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, quick cleaning wipes
- Close-fitting bag or slim fanny pack
- Mosquito repellent
- Water bottle, plastic bags for waste
Clothing to bring
- Long-sleeved, short-sleeved and technical T-shirts
- Technical trousers and shorts
- Fleece jacket
- Gore-Tex jacket
- Hat and gloves, sunglasses
- Hat, cap or head covering
- Walking shoes
- Comfortable shoes for resting
- Thick socks
- Swimsuit
- Thermal underwear
