After an early start and a hearty breakfast, we take our vehicle approx. 30 minutes to the beginning of the Llactapata Inca Trail. We walk gradually up to the coffee farm where local coffee experts will teach you about sustainable growing practices and coffee’s vital role in Santa Teresa´s social and economic evolution. After tasting the result of the plant to cup process, we head uphill for 2-3 hours towards Llactapata pass (2, 700 m/8, 900ft). Where we come upon a distant but quite special view of Machu Picchu from the southwest, one which few tourists ever glimpse. An added value is the Llactapata Ruins, which have recently been restored. Lunch is provided at the checkout point, in view of Machu Picchu. We then begin our final descent to the Aobamba River through lush bamboo forests and more orchids and coffee plantations (2-3 hour descent). After, you can head to the hot springs for a well-deserved treat after your hard work or simply relax in a hammock at the lodge, listening to the birds and the sound of the river, or get a massage.

(Total hiking time: 6-8 hours. Hiking level: moderate to challenging). B/L/D

After breakfast, you can relax a bit before heading to the station for your train to Aguas Calientes, a short (30 minutes) scenic train ride away.

Today is spent exploring the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu with your tour leader. In the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes to board the train for our journey back to Cusco. We get off at Ollantaytambo and change to motorized transport arriving in Cusco in the early evening. (Breakfast in your hotel; recommended to purchase a box lunch before heading to Machu Picchu.) B/.