Andean trekking excursion in Peru between Perolniyoc and the Sun Gate
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration3 days
-
LevelAdvance
-
DestinationAmerica / Peru
-
AgeFrom 18 - 65 years
-
CO₂-Emissions38.42 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
-
Languages
Spanish
English
French
In a few words
Embark on a 3-day immersion in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas , amidst breathtaking high-altitude panoramas , little-known archaeological sites , and authentic Andean encounters . This trek takes you off the beaten path to discover the Perolniyoc waterfall , nestled in a verdant setting, before continuing to the isolated ruins of Raqaypata and the majestic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) . You will cross the Niyoc Pass , perched at 4,400 meters , offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, you will encounter local communities living according to their age-old traditions. The descent leads you to the Inca quarry of Cachicata , a testament to Andean ingenuity, before reaching Ollantaytambo , the final destination of this adventure and a true jewel of Inca heritage. A short but intense itinerary, ideal for combining cultural discovery , moderate physical effort and immersion in the high mountains .
The highlights
-
Spectacular Andean landscapes and the off-the-beaten-path Perolniyoc waterfall.
-
Authentic Inca archaeological sites: Raqaypata, Inti Punku and Cachicata.
-
Immersive adventure trek with a mythical arrival in Ollantaytambo.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
Before starting these two days of hiking, make sure you are well acclimatized to the altitude. A few days of walking in the Sacred Valley and Cusco, along with rest, will help you cope with the elevation gain.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 7 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 575 m
- Average daily descent: 597 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
-
Cusco - Perolniyoc Waterfall - Rayan
- Transportation Car - 02h - 80km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Distance 7 km
- Positive elevation gain 875 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we will travel to the village of Socma (3000 m above sea level). From the village center, we will begin our adventure and first hike to the Perolniyoc waterfall. It will take us approximately one hour to reach the base of the waterfall, where we will pause to fully appreciate this magnificent spot. We will then ascend to the ruins of Raqaypata.
Reaching an altitude of 3500 meters above sea level, the Raqaypata archaeological complex is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a beautiful view over the Socma Valley. We will end the day with a final push to reach the community of Rayan, where our camp will be waiting for us for the night.
Day 1 -
Rayan. Paso Niyoc - Inti Punku - Cachicata
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 9h
- Distance 6 km
- Positive elevation gain 850 m
- Negative elevation 850 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we will ascend the Rayan Valley towards the Niyoc Pass, which reaches an altitude of 4,400 meters. The climb will be strenuous, but the view from the summit will be well worth the effort. We will rest for a while before beginning a long descent of approximately three hours to the Inca gate of "Inti Punku" and finally to our camp at Cachicata.
Day 2 -
Cachicata - Ollantaytambo
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 8 km
- Negative elevation 940 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Our final day of trekking is quite short and entirely downhill. We'll cross the Cachicata quarry, the source of the stones used to build Ollantaytambo, explore the area, and then descend for three hours to the town of Ollantaytambo, where our adventure will end.
Day 3
Note
Enhance your trip by booking this excursion. However, we do not recommend flying for such a short duration.
Accommodation
- Individual tent
- Double tent
- Triple tent
Access
An extension in the Amazon can be added to your stay, as well as group or private excursions in Southern Peru.
Go to the starting point
We can arrange your inbound and outbound transfers from the airport.
Price details
The price includes
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner depending on the day
- Camping accommodation
- Sleeping bag
- Private transport on days 1 and 3
- Muleteer and mules
- French-speaking cook and guide
The price does not include
- Transportation to the starting point
- Personal snacks
- Tips for the guide, the cook and the muleteer
- Additional personal equipment (trekking clothes, poles, shoes, raincoat, headlamp, etc.)
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, 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.
Accommodation
Accommodation is an integral part of the experience. On our tours, we offer a variety of options to suit your style and preferences. Homestays are perfect for those seeking a truly immersive cultural experience: you'll sleep in family homes, enjoying warm and authentic hospitality, but with basic amenities, sometimes without a private bathroom, and without guaranteed Wi-Fi or hot water. Guesthouses or 2-star hotels are functional and economical, ideal for those on a budget, but with limited services: simple rooms, no heating, a very basic breakfast, and no guaranteed Wi-Fi.
Starting with 3-star hotels, comfort levels improve significantly: comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, more professional service, and complimentary Wi-Fi. 4-star hotels offer a superior stay, with larger spaces, higher-quality services, and guaranteed connectivity. And if you're looking for luxury and exclusive details, 5-star hotels stand out with their top-of-the-line amenities, personalized service, and premium experiences.
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.
Tips
In the service sector, it's customary to leave a tip when you're happy with the service. Between 5 and 10% of the service value is typical.
Physical preparation
For all your trips, remember to maintain your physical fitness. Even for "Discovery" trips, preparing yourself physically will help you adapt more easily to the altitude and better enjoy your discoveries.
For trekking trips, develop your endurance by going for a run or practicing your endurance several times a week.
Vaccines
You must be up-to-date with your Tetanus, Hepatitis and Typhoid (Yellow Fever if visiting the Amazon) vaccinations.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Drinking water provided
- Tents / campsite
- Sleeping bags
- To cook
- Lamps (headlamps or camping lamps)
- Mules
- Muleteer / arriero
- Spare/backup horse
- Snacks provided
Equipment to bring
- Trekking backpack (30–40 L)
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Water bottle or hydration system (minimum 2 L)
- Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Lightweight/Compact Towel
- Waterproof bag to protect clothes and documents inside the bag
- Camera or phone with extra battery
- Personal first aid kit (pain relievers, plasters, insect repellent)
- Energy snacks (dried fruit, bars, chocolate)
Clothing to bring
- Breathable short-sleeved and long-sleeved T-shirts
- Fleece or light wool jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex type)
- Comfortable and durable trekking trousers
- Thermal pants or leggings for cold weather
- Comfortable and breathable underwear
- Trekking socks (minimum 2 pairs)
- Cap or hat for the sun
- Lightweight and warm gloves
- Scarf or neck warmer / buff
- Hat for the cold
- Sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes with good soles
- Sandals or light shoes for the camp
The Alex team
We are sorry to hear that.
Help us improve this page. Tell us what information you would have liked to see.
Have a question about this trip?
Select the type of request, and we will get back to you shortly.
- Valid for a first booking on our site, with no minimum purchase required.
- Can be combined with any other current promotion.
- Not valid on air transport, carbon offsetting and insurance.
- All you need to do is subscribe to our newsletter.
- You will receive your promo code by email immediately after registering.
- ✅ A 100% identical offer: Same dates, same services, same sales conditions.
- ✅ A public and accessible price: The offer must be proposed by a French professional website, in euros.
- ❌ Flights and transport in your name: Airline or train tickets already issued in your name are not refundable under this guarantee.
- ❌ Specific named services: Certain personalized services (such as a special permit or a named registration for a race or accommodation) may be excluded.
- You pay a 30% deposit today to reserve your stay.
- The balance (the remaining 70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
- ✅ Of an amount greater than €300.
- ✅ Whose departure is in more than 30 days.