21-Day Quechua People's Tour: Immersion, Trekking and Machu Picchu
In summary
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Sports
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Duration21 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationAmerica / Peru
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AgeFrom 7 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions589.71 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
Spanish
In a few words
Explore the vast Andean landscapes on the "Quechua People" tour , a comprehensive 21-day itinerary designed for those passionate about wide-open spaces and authentic encounters . In a small group limited to 12 people, this trip offers an immersion into the heart of local traditions.
The route brings together the treasures of Southern Peru: the majestic city of Arequipa , the spectacular Colca Canyon , the sacred waters of Lake Titicaca , the imperial city of Cusco and the legendary Machu Picchu .
To get off the beaten track, the experience is enriched with unique stops. Admire the mineral nuances of the colorful Palcoyo mountain , travel along the verdant coffee route in Huayopata and undertake a 3-day trek towards the preserved site of Huchuy Qosqo .
Thanks to numerous nights spent with local families , share in the daily life of the communities and experience a genuine cultural exchange. A well-balanced adventure, ideal for crossing the Andes in a different way.
The highlights
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Arequipa, Colca Canyon and nights with locals on Lake Titicaca
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Trek to Huchuy Qosqo, Palcoyo mountain and authentic Andean immersion
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Visit to the mythical Machu Picchu and Amazonian immersion 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: 180 m
- Average daily descent: 173 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
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 Arequipa and acclimatization in the White City
- Transportation Car - 00h35 - 11km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival at the airport and private transfer to your hotel in Arequipa. Enjoy this first day to rest and gently acclimatize to the altitude of the mythical "White City" of the Andes, nestled at the foot of the volcanoes.
Day 1 -
Guided tour of Arequipa: Santa Catalina convent and Juanita mummy
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Immerse yourself in history on a guided tour of Arequipa in French . You'll be enchanted by its colonial architecture built from volcanic stone (Sillar). You'll explore the famous Santa Catalina Monastery , a veritable city within a city, and discover the fascinating mummy Juanita , a testament to Inca rituals dedicated to the sacred mountains.
Day 2 -
Departure for the Colca Canyon and vicuña watching
- Transportation Car - 03h50 - 172km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
A scenic drive towards Chivay offers spectacular views of the Andes. You'll cross the Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve , a prime location for observing herds of wild vicuñas. After lunch amidst ancient pre-Incan terraces, you'll check into your hotel with the option of a short walk in the Andean countryside .
Day 3 -
The Condor Cross and overnight stay with a local family in Canocota
- Transportation Car - 02h20 - 96km
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
An early departure takes you to the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint , offering a breathtaking view of the Colca Canyon and the opportunity to admire the majestic flight of the Andean condor. You then travel through traditional villages to reach Canocota . There, you'll be welcomed by your host family for a cultural immersion , a rural walk, and an authentic overnight stay with a local family .
Day 4 -
Hiking in the Colca Canyon and drive to Lake Titicaca
- Transportation Car - 05h15 - 268km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h30
- Distance 5 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After saying goodbye to your host family, you'll embark on a scenic 2.5-hour hike along the Colca Canyon to the village of Chivay. After lunch, you'll take a tourist bus to Puno , with stops along the way to photograph the stunning landscapes of the Altiplano highlands.
Day 5 -
Immersion on Lake Titicaca: Llachon peninsula, staying with locals
- Transportation Boat - 01h30 - 5km
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Depart by boat from Puno for a fully immersive experience. Sail on Lake Titicaca with a stop at the Uros Titinos Islands before reaching the Llachon Peninsula . You'll have lunch with your host family and then participate in their daily activities (farming, discovering plants, crafts). Dinner and overnight stay with a local family .
Day 6 -
Traditional fishing on Lake Titicaca and a night on the Uros floating islands
- Transportation Boat - 01h30 - 5km
- Accommodation Lodge
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A morning dedicated to traditional fishing on the lake with your host, an essential activity in the daily lives of Llachon's inhabitants. After lunch with the family, you'll take the boat back to Puno Bay for a unique experience: a night on a Uros floating island in an unusual lodge on the waters of Lake Titicaca.
Day 7 -
The Sun Route: Tinajani Canyon and Raqchi Crafts
- Transportation Car - 05h10 - 296km
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your driver will take you along the famous Route of the Sun towards Cusco. You'll travel through magnificent Andean landscapes with a stop at the spectacular Tinajani Canyon , renowned for its giant rock formations. At the end of the day, you'll arrive in Raqchi , a village famous for its pottery, for an overnight stay with the local community .
Day 8 -
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Range and arrival at the imperial city of Cusco
- Transportation Car - 05h - 177km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 1h30
- Distance 7 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
An early morning exploration of the Inca archaeological site of Raqchi and its monumental Temple of Wiracocha. The adventure continues to the spectacular colorful mountain of Palcoyo , located at nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. Enjoy a beautiful hike to admire this unique geological landscape with its rainbow hues, before heading back to Cusco .
Day 9 -
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 Cusco's historic center . You will explore the magnificent Inca temples overlooking the city and the legendary Qorikancha complex , before strolling through the cobbled streets lined with original Inca walls.
Day 10 -
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 11 -
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, 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 in the Sacred Valley.
Day 12 -
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 13 -
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 14 -
Treasures of the Sacred Valley: textiles, Moray, salt mines of Maras 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 ancient weaving techniques during a textile demonstration in Chinchero. The adventure continues to the ingenious Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray and then the dazzling salt mines of Maras . After a beautiful hike down into the valley, you will explore the imposing strategic fortress of Ollantaytambo .
Day 15 -
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 16 -
Peruvian cacao cultivation and jungle trekking towards Aguas Calientes
- Transportation Car - 01h30 - 44km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 10 km
- Accommodation 2-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 17 -
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 18 -
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 19 -
Free day in Cusco for shopping or a last-minute excursion
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Enjoy this completely free day in Cusco to visit its museums, stroll through the San Pedro market, or sample a local specialty. Our team remains at your disposal to help you perfect the end of your Andean stay.
Day 20 -
End of the grand Quechua People tour and flight to Lima
- 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 21
Accommodation
Access
You can add an extension to your stay in the Amazon near Cusco, in Puerto Maldonado.
Go to the starting point
We can help you arrange your flight or transfer to Lima and Arequipa.
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.
- Some domestic flights unless specifically mentioned as included.
- Airport taxes during the trip.
- Your mandatory travel insurance (accident, repatriation)
- What is not mentioned in the "Included" 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
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