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Peru with Ancient Americas
Dates
May 1–7, 2024
Group Size
8–18 Travelers
Duration
7 days, 6 nights
Activity Level
Adventure
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileAncient Americas
Pete is the creator behind the YouTube channel Ancient Americas. Living in the midwestern United States, he's an avid learner and has always been fascinated by history and loves telling stories.
Trip Activities
Pisac Ruins Tour
Amaru Community Textile Demonstration
Ollantaytambo Ruins Tour
Machu Picchu Tour
Moray Visit
Inca Salt Mines Tour
Pachamanca Lunch Demonstration
Humantay Lake and Chonta Viewpoint Hike
Cusco Walking Tour
Included in Your Trip
Double occupancy in 2 and 3-star hotels
Local Guide throughout trip
All city transfers
Arrival airport transfer (until 5pm on first day)
Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)
Not Included
International flights
Food and alcohol (except as noted)
Visas and travel insurance
Airport transfers outside of designated times
Tips for Guides
What's included by Your Host
Museo Inka (Optional if time permits)
Museo de Arte Precolombino (Optional if time permits)
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Info
Airport Transfer
Airport Transfer
dinner
Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included.
Royal Inka Pisac
(or similar)
Overnight in Pisac.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Pisac Ruins Tour
Take a private vehicle from the town up to the Pisac Ruins in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This ancient site is located on a mountain crest high above the valley and is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Peru. Make sure to bring your camera, with stunning viewpoints and the surrounding mountains, you’re sure to record some memorable moments!
Amaru Community Textile Demonstration
At the Amaru community, you'll learn about traditional Peruvian textiles. The women of the community will teach you about the weaving process, dyeing, management, and production of their traditional textiles.
lunch
Lunch at a local restaurant is included.
Ollantaytambo Ruins Tour
Enjoy the stunning views of Ollantaytambo, believed to have been a refuge for Inca royalty. Ollantaytambo was not only a religious and agricultural center, but also a strategic military fortress, with its stonework and imposing 13-foot-high buildings. The surrounding mountain peaks of Ollantaytambo add drama to the Sacred Valley – the “Land blessed by the Inti” (the ancient Incan sun god).
Tunupa Lodge Hotel
(or similar)
Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast included at the hotel.
Train towards Aguas Calientes town
Train tickets on Inca Rail The 360° Machu Picchu service.
Machu Picchu Tour
Experience a private guided tour of Machu Picchu. Built 500+ years ago, with no mortar used to secure its stones on a mountainous earthquake fault, the city’s 500 stone buildings are still standing today! The highlight of any trip to South America, this guided tour will teach you the history and folklore of Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas”.
lunch
Lunch included at a local restaurant.
Train back to Ollantaytambo
Train tickets on Inca Rail The 360° Machu Picchu service.
Tunupa Lodge Hotel
(or similar)
Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Moray Visit
Visit the ancient archaeological site of Moray, which is composed of three groups of circular terraces, descending 490 feet from the highest to the lowest. It is widely believed that the Moray ruins were used as an experimental farm by the Incas over 500 years ago. Since the sun hits at different angles, each terrace has its own microclimate and the temperature can range 27°F from top to bottom.
Inca Salt Mines Tour
Head off to the ancient Inca Salt Mines! There are approximately 4,500 salt ponds stacked up the steep hillside next to the town of Maras. Individual ponds belong to families living in the community and they are passed down from generation to generation. When someone marries into the community, a new pond is created for the new couple. Each pond measuring about 13 square feet is made with stone and mud mortar walls. To this day, only locals of the communities of Maras and Pichingoto control the salt mines.
Pachamanca Lunch Demonstration
The little Andean village of Chinchero is located in the Sacred Valley, on the plains of Anta, at an elevation of approximately 12,500 feet. Here you'll have the unique opportunity to learn about an ancient cooking technique and preparation of the traditional Peruvian dish, Pachamanca in a local Andean community. Enjoy your meal with its authentic flavors and then return to Cusco, overlooking the beautiful valley and spectacular views of Piuray Lake.
lunch
Traditional dish of Pachamanca after the cooking demonstration.
Museo Inka (Optional if time permits)
Visiting Cuzco's Museo Inka to learn about the history of Cuzco from the Inka to the modern day. Cost is S/20 ($6.00). The Museum is open until 4 PM.
Ruinas Hotel
(or similar)
Overnight in Cusco.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Humantay Lake and Chonta Viewpoint Hike
Today you’ll get your legs moving on a full-day hike to Humantay Lake and Chonta Viewpoint! The spectacular views of the blue lake combined with the elevation, are sure to get your heart pumping. This is the ideal location to spot the massive Andean Condor, the largest flying bird in the world, weighing up to 33 lbs with a wingspan of 10 feet! Humantay Lake Duration: 3-4 hours / Distance: 3.5 miles roundtrip / Elevation: 12,800 feet to 13,900 feet / Difficulty: Moderate | Chonta Viewpoint Duration: 3 hours / Distance: 3.6 miles roundtrip / Elevation: 11,087 feet to 11,200 feet / Difficulty: Easy
lunch
Boxed lunch on the hike is included.
Museo de Arte Precolombino (Optional if time permits)
Visiting Cuzco's Museo de Arte Precolombino to see their incredible collection of pre-columbian art. Cost is S/20 ($6.00). The Museum is open until 4 PM.
Ruinas Hotel
(or similar)
Overnight in Cusco.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Cusco Walking Tour
Discover the archeological sites surrounding the city of Cusco. Your walk will begin at Tambomachay ruins, whose aqueducts and canals were filtered through the stone terraces. A pathway from here will take you down to the ruins of Puka Pukara and Saqsaywaman. These three sites were thought to be fortresses but their true function is unclear. From there, a 10-minute walk will take you to the most famous monument in the city of Cusco, the statue of “Cristo Blanco”, standing 26 feet high with arms raised as a sign of protection over the city. Cristo Blanco was built by Christian Palestinian refugees in 1945 and given to the city as a gift. The statue can be seen across the entire city and the panoramic views from the statue are breathtaking.
lunch
Boxed lunch on the walking tour is included.
dinner
Farewell dinner at Calle Del Medio restaurant (or similar).
Ruinas Hotel
(or similar)
Overnight in Cusco.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Transfer to Cusco airport
At the appropriate time, you'll be transferred to Cusco airport.
Physical Activity Level:Adventure
These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.
Essential Travel Information
Cancellation Policy
We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:
Spot Pending
Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip
Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
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FAQ
Traveling with TrovaTrip
What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?
Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.
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- The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
- The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
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In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:
- The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
- The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
- TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?
First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:
- Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
- Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
- Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
- Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
- We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.
We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”
Can I book solo?
Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:
- Spot pending – 100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
- Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your trip – Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.
- Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your trip – Non-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
What's included in the trip cost?
Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.
Does my Host make money from hosting?
TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.
Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).
A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.
Will I have free time?
Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.
What do the activity levels mean?
Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:
- Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
- Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
- Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
- Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
- Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)
You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!
Accommodations
What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?
When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.
Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?
Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.
Trip Operations & Compliance
Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?
Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?
If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.
General Travel Questions
Do I need any documentation to travel?
It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise.
Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.
Do I need any vaccines?
It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!
Are flights included in the trip cost?
Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.
Can you accommodate my dietary needs?
We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.