How We Define Activity Levels
We rate each trip from Level 1 (Easy) to Level 5 (Challenging)—from fully accessible experiences to adventures best suited for experienced hikers/adventurers.
Whether you prefer a relaxed stroll or a rewarding trek, there’s a pace—and a place—for you.
Interest-Free Payment Plans Available
Explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley on a small-group Perú hiking trip filled with culture, history, and breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Visit local villages and artisan workshops, explore ancient ruins, and trek the legendary 4-Day Inca Trail with expert local guides to reach Machu Picchu for an unforgettable sunrise!
Blending trekking, archaeology, and meaningful connection, this adventure offers a deeper way to experience Perú.
Trip Highlights
- Connect with the land in the Ocutuan community, joining local farmers in the fields to learn ancestral techniques passed down through generations. Using traditional tools, you’ll see how each step of the process—from planting to harvest—reflects a deep relationship with the earth.
- Step into history at the Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, wandering among massive stone terraces, intricate Inca masonry, and sacred temples that reveal the strategic and spiritual importance of this ancient stronghold.
- Trek the legendary Inca Trail, a breathtaking journey through rugged mountain landscapes, lush cloud forests, and centuries-old ruins where every turn offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of Inca engineering.
- Arrive at the iconic Sun Gate, where your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu unfolds in golden light—an unforgettable reward after days of adventure and connection to the land.
- Shape earth into art during a hands-on clay pottery workshop with renowned artisans Alcione & Bernardino, whose creative process blends skill, symbolism, and tradition to bring each unique piece to life.
Our Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Welcome to Cusco
- Arrive in Cusco and be warmly greeted at the airport by your private driver, ready to whisk you into the heart of the former Inca capital. As you ride into the city, the crisp mountain air, views of terracotta rooftops, and distant snowcapped peaks set the scene for your time in the Andes. Your boutique hotel awaits—full of charm, history, and warm Peruvian hospitality—offering a peaceful base to rest and recharge.
- Spend your first afternoon at your own pace, adjusting to the altitude and taking in your surroundings. Perhaps wander the cobblestone streets where Spanish colonial architecture meets Inca stonework, pause in lively plazas alive with music and conversation, or step into small artisan workshops brimming with colorful textiles and handicrafts. Or, simply relax in the comfort of your hotel, letting the energy of Cusco slowly work its way into your rhythm.
- Gather in the evening for a memorable Welcome Dinner at Campo Cocina Andina, a restaurant that celebrates the bounty of the Sacred Valley. Here, seasonal ingredients are transformed into creative dishes that carry the spirit of Andean tradition, each plate telling a story of the land, its farmers, and its flavors. Over shared dishes, warm conversation, and the hum of the city outside, connect with your tour leader and fellow travelers as your Peruvian adventure truly begins.
Day 2: Journey to Chinchero
- Journey beyond Cusco this morning into the highlands, where rolling fields and snow-dusted peaks guide the way to the charming town of Chinchero—the gateway to the Sacred Valley. Here, we’ll be warmly greeted by members of the Ocutuan Community, whose welcome comes alive with traditional song, dance, and heartfelt smiles.
- Step into their daily rhythm, touring the village to see how centuries-old agricultural practices continue to nourish both the land and the people. Learn about the seasonal crops they tend with ancestral tools, their care for livestock, and the important role of guinea pigs—an Andean staple—within both cuisine and tradition. This intimate exchange is a chance to not only witness but participate in the living heritage of the Andes.
- Return to Cusco in the afternoon for a guided walking tour through the city’s storied streets. Your guide will weave together tales of Inca ingenuity and Spanish colonial influence as you pass historic plazas, ornate churches, and vibrant local markets. The day ends with the golden light casting its glow over Cusco’s rooftops, offering the perfect backdrop for reflection on the connections and culture shared throughout the day.
Day 3: The Wonders of Pisac
- Begin your day with an early start as we make our way into the enthralling town of Pisac, nestled in the Sacred Valley and known for its sweeping views, artisanal markets, and deep-rooted Andean traditions.
- On the way, we’ll stop at the Cocohuasi Animal Sanctuary, a haven dedicated to rescuing and caring for native wildlife of the Andes. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet majestic condors, playful alpacas, and other remarkable species while learning about the sanctuary’s vital conservation work.
- For lunch, savor the flavors of a traditional Pachamanca, an ancient Andean cooking method where meats, potatoes, and vegetables are slow-cooked beneath hot stones in an earthen oven—a delicious ritual that embodies gratitude to the land.
- In the afternoon, step into the workshop of renowned artisans Alcione & Bernardino for a hands-on pottery demonstration. Watch as clay transforms under expert hands, and try your own hand at shaping a piece inspired by centuries-old techniques.
- We’ll then journey to our hotel, where you’ll have time to settle in and relax before the evening’s experience: an Andean sound bath. Let the vibrations of traditional instruments wash over you, calming your mind and spirit while connecting you to the ancient energy of the Sacred Valley.
Eimy, Perú's Regional Director
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Where We Stay
At Heart of Travel, we believe your home away from home should feel as authentic as the places you explore. That’s why we prioritize premium boutique stays owned and run by local entrepreneurs, choosing character, care, and sustainability over star ratings. From thoughtfully restored heritage homes to eco-minded retreats, each stay is selected to support local communities and create meaningful moments.
For this journey, we offer two single supplement options:
• $645 — a lower single supplement option without a private tent on the Inca Trail
• $795 — a higher single supplement with a private tent on the Inca Trail
We gently encourage sharing a tent when possible. This thoughtful choice reduces the load our porters carry and reflects our commitment to responsible, mindful travel — a small decision that makes a meaningful difference in their well-being.
If you have any questions about these options, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
The Heart Experience
What makes this journey special isn’t just where we go—it’s how we go. From expert guides of the Inca Trail to culturally immersive visits to local Andean communities, every detail is designed to connect you with Perú's soul and reflect our commitment to community and regenerative travel.
Meet Eimy
Perú's Regional Director & Senior Tour Leader
Eimy designed the Adventure in the Andes: The Inca Trail tour to guide travelers through the experience of a lifetime: making the complete journey along the Inca Trail all while forming meaningful connections to the land's history and culture.
Some of her favorite highlights include:
- Supporting the Sacred Valley Project, which contributes to the education of young girls in the Ollantaytambo region
- Sleeping in the Star Dome, a special lodging in the Sacred Valley that places you between the land and the stars
- Visiting the Cocohuasi Animal Sanctuary where we meet the animals and learn about the sanctuary's rescue efforts
- Immersing yourself in a meditative soundscape of Ancestral Sound that invites participants into a deep state of reflection and connection
- Experiencing Peru's indigenous communities through traditional recipes that have been passed through generations, such as the Pachamanca, the ancestral dish that is cooked underground
This is travel with heart—where impact and experience go hand in hand.
How We Define Activity Levels
We rate each trip from Level 1 (Easy) to Level 5 (Challenging)—from fully accessible experiences to adventures best suited for experienced hikers/adventurers.
Whether you prefer a relaxed stroll or a rewarding trek, there’s a pace—and a place—for you.
What is included:
Our prices reflect the true cost of creating regenerative, respectful, and thoughtfully curated travel experiences. That means fair wages for our local guides and partners, carbon-conscious operations, and deep-rooted collaborations with community-based projects.
Interest-Free Payment Plans
We know that meaningful travel is an investment—and we’re here to make it doable. That’s why we offer interest-free payment options designed to work for you—no hidden fees, no credit checks, and no third-party financing.
Pay in Full & Save
Enjoy 5% off when you pay in full up to 180+ before departure.
Starting at
Standard Plan
Pay a larger deposit + two installments, due 210 and 150 days before departure.
Starting at
Interest-Free Plan
Pay a smaller deposit and start making interest-free monthly payments—trip is due in full 91 days before departure.
Starting at
Add Peace of Mind with Heart of Travel Trip Protection
Travel plans can change - and that’s okay. With Heart of Travel Trip Protection, you get the freedom to protect your investment while staying flexible.
See what’s included
Hear What People Are Saying
Tess and I had an amazing time in Peru with Heart of Travel! From Cusco and the Sacred Valley to awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, every moment was unforgettable. Eimy and Wilmer were exceptional—gracious, knowledgeable, fun, and so generous of spirit. We loved going beyond the tourist spots to truly experience Peruvian life, and sharing the journey with such a diverse, multi-generational group made it even more special. It was our first Heart of Travel trip, and we’d absolutely do it again. ¡Muchas gracias por esta increíble experiencia!
Awesome trip. Eimy and Wilmer were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly guides. This was our 6th trip with Heart of travel and they are always great.
Another bucket list trip thanks to the Heart of Travel team! Peru was spectacular! There wasn’t a moment that wasn’t perfect. I cannot say enough good things about the delicious food, the meaningful activities like the local farm visit and girls school tour, the breathtaking sights including Machu Picchu, and the excellent care by the guides to help our group acclimate to the altitude. This is my third Heart of Travel trip and I already have two more booked. Thank you a million times for the memories!
What to expect when booking!
Reserve Your Spot
Lock in your adventure with a deposit and a few quick details about who’s traveling. Choose the payment plan that fits your life—pay in full, split it in three installments, or spread it out monthly—and start counting down the days for your next adventure!
Get Trip-Ready
As we get closer to departure, we’ll drop a Welcome Packet in your inbox loaded with need-to-knows: packing lists, weather tips, local customs, currency info, and any visa or entry forms you might need. You’ll also get steady pre-departure emails and the option to attend a pre-trip Zoom call with your Tour Leader to answer questions big or small—so you can show up confident and stress-free. Call recordings will be made available to all trip participants.
Travel & Connect
A few weeks before our departure, you’ll be invited to a private WhatsApp group and PhotoCircle where fellow travelers, Heart of Travel Tour Leaders, and local guides start swapping intros, answering last-minute questions, and sharing playlists. Once on the ground, the Whatsapp group becomes your real-time hub for insider tips, updates, and reminders, and sharing the moments that make each trip unforgettable.
Keep the Journey Going
We keep every trip’s WhatsApp thread open long after the farewell hugs—because the stories, photos, and friendships shouldn’t end when the plane lands. Drop your best shots into our PhotoCircle, stay in the loop for alumni perks, and (coming later this year) join our online community designed to keep travelers and local partners connected between adventures.
How We Define Activity Levels
We rate each trip from Level 1 (Easy) to Level 5 (Challenging)—from fully accessible experiences to adventures best suited for experienced hikers/adventurers.
Whether you prefer a relaxed stroll or a rewarding trek, there’s a pace—and a place—for you.
Interest-Free Payment Plans Available
Trip Protection Available
Have more questions?
We’re here to help. Whether you’re unsure about flights, packing, affordability or picking the right trip—just reach out.
No question is too small!