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Peru with Eric Hanson
Dates
Apr 24 – May 1, 2024
Group Size
8–22 Travelers
Duration
8 days, 7 nights
Activity Level
Strenuous
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileEric Hanson
Travel is an opportunity to see the world with new eyes and awaken parts of yourself you didn't know existed. I feel most connected to myself in the wild places of the world. I spent six years as the host of Epic Trails and currently am a backpacking and travel creator. I've traveled for much of my life and have been to about 100 countries.
Trip Activities
Discover Incan Ruins around Cusco
Explore the Best of Cusco Downtown
Salcantay Trek Day 1: Hummantay Lake
Salcantay Trek Day 2: Salcantay Peak Views
Salcantay Trek Day 3: Rivers and Waterfalls
Salcantay Trek Day 4: Machu Picchu
Visit of Machu Picchu Site
Included in Your Trip
Double occupancy in 3-star hotels and tents
Local Guide, cooks, and porters throughout the expedition
All city transfers
Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)
Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)
Tent, sleeping mattress, sleeping bag, trekking poles during trek
Purified drinking water throughout trip
Not Included
International flights
Food and alcohol (except as noted)
Visas and travel insurance
Airport transfers outside of designated times
Tips for Guides
Personal trekking equipment such as hiking boots
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Info
Arrival Transfer
There will be three provided transfers from the International Airport Alejandro Velasco Astete (CUZ) to the hotel between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm.
dinner
Get to know the group! Your welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included.
Ruinas Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Cusco.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Discover Incan Ruins around Cusco
In the morning, you'll have the opportunity to explore the four Inca ruins located just outside the center of Cusco. First, we'll visit the magnificent "Inca Ceremonial Center of Sacsayhuaman." This incredible structure offers a breathtaking view overlooking the city of Cusco. Continuing our journey, we'll then visit another significant Inca site called "Qenqo." This unique place features subterranean passages and intricately carved stone channels arranged in a zigzag pattern. Afterward, we'll make a brief stop at the archaeological Inca sites of "Tambomachay," a temple dedicated to the God of Water, and "PucaPucará." These sites offer further insight into the rich Incan history and showcase their architectural prowess.
Explore the Best of Cusco Downtown
In the afternoon, we'll embark on an orientation walk around the center of Cusco, allowing you to familiarize yourself with this captivating city. Along the way, you'll encounter remarkable sights, such as the renowned Stone of Twelve Angles, the Qoricancha temple, the Plaza de Armas, and the magnificent Cathedral of Cusco. To conclude our exploration, we'll visit the traditional and charming neighborhood of San Blas, renowned for its art studios, artisan workshops, and a multitude of excellent bars and restaurants.
Ruinas Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Cusco.
Info
Salcantay Trail Starting Point
Private transfer from your hotel to the starting point of the Salcantay Trail. Early pick up at 5:00 am.
breakfast
Breakfast is included and will be served in Soraypampa Town before we start trekking.
Salcantay Trek Day 1: Hummantay Lake
Upon reaching Soraypampa town (11,318 ft) we will be greeted by a chef who will provide a complete breakfast. After breakfast, our trek to Humantay Lake (13,780 ft) will start. The initial part of the trail is flat, gradually ascending until we reach the lake. After marveling at the incredible turquoise waters of the lake, we will hike back to Soraypampa for our lunch. Post lunch, we will continue our trek to Salkantaypampa (13,615 ft). This impressive location amidst the glacier valleys offers a night sky devoid of ambient light, providing the perfect setting to camp and admire the constellations above Minimum Altitude: 11,320 ft / Campsite altitude: 13,615 masl / Hiking distance: 7 miles / Elevation Gain: 2,297 ft / Difficulty: Moderate-Challenging.
lunch
A complete lunch is included at Soraypampa.
dinner
A complete dinner is included at the Salkantaypampa campsite.
Camping at Salkantaypampa (or similar)
Overnight at Salkantaypampa campsite.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the campsite is included.
Salcantay Trek Day 2: Salcantay Peak Views
Get ready for an early wake-up call. Once we've packed up, and savored a delicious breakfast, we'll waste no time and begin our ascent to the highest point of the Salcantay trail (15,160 ft). As we hike through the rocky valley, keep an eye out for the awe-inspiring Salcantay peak (20,406 ft) standing proudly in the distance. From there, the trail leads us downhill along gravel and rocky paths, guiding us to our lunch spot, Huayracmachay. In the afternoon, we'll enter the enchanting rainforest, before finally reaching our base campsite in Chaullay (9,515 ft). Maximum Altitude: 15,255 ft / Minimum Altitude:: 9,515 ft / Hiking distance: 13 miles / Elevation Gain: 1,641 ft / Difficulty: Challenging.
lunch
A complete lunch is included at Huayracmachay.
dinner
A complete dinner is included at the Chaullay campsite.
Camping at Chaullay (or similar)
Overnight at Chaullay Campsite.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the campsite is included.
Salcantay Trek Day 3: Rivers and Waterfalls
Once we've had breakfast, we'll embark on a straight hike towards La Playa town, immersing ourselves in the dense jungle and following the scenic riverbank of the Salcantay River. Along the way, we'll make stops at various family hamlets, where you can indulge in delicious local fruits and vegetables. After approximately 7 hours of hiking, we'll arrive at Lucmabamba (6,890 ft), our base camp. Lucmabamba is a charming small town enveloped by coffee trees. In the afternoon, get ready for an exciting coffee experience as you participate in harvesting the coffee, peeling the beans, roasting them, grinding them, and finally preparing your very own cup of espresso. Maximum Altitude: 9,515 ft / Minimum Altitude: 6,890 ft / Hiking distance: 10 miles / Elevation Gain: -2,625 ft / Difficulty: Moderate
lunch
A complete lunch is included at Lucmabamba.
dinner
A complete dinner is included at the Lucmabamba campsite.
Camping at Lucmabamba (or similar)
Overnight at Lucmabamba Campsite.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the campsite is included.
Salcantay Trek Day 4: Machu Picchu
After enjoying a nutritious breakfast, we'll embark on our final day of hiking. Today's trail will lead us through captivating coffee plantations as we make our way toward Llactapata (8,860 ft). Along the route, we'll follow a wide, well-preserved Inca trail, a testament to its historical significance as part of the ancient route to Quito. As we ascend the ridge, a marvelous sight awaits us—the first view of the legendary Machu Picchu. From this vantage point, it's just a short stroll to Llactapata. Covered in vines, lush jungle vegetation, and surrounded by towering trees, we'll have the opportunity to explore this remarkable site before descending to the Rio Aobamba, where we'll enjoy our final lunch. From there, we'll board a train that will take us to the charming town of Aguas Calientes (6,700 ft). Maximum Altitude: 8,860 ft / Minimum Altitude: 6,700 ft / Hiking distance: 15 miles / Elevation Gain: - 2,166 ft / Difficulty: Challenging
lunch
A complete lunch is included at Aobamba River.
Intipunku Machu Picchu Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Visit of Machu Picchu Site
After breakfast, you will make your way to the magnificent ruins of Machu Picchu, famously known as the "Lost City of the Incas". Situated high in the Andes, surrounded by lush cloud forests and with the Urubamba River flowing around it, Machu Picchu offers a breathtaking setting. This ancient citadel, hidden on a ridge, remained undiscovered for many years until its remarkable rediscovery in 1911. Your Guide will lead you to explore the upper terrace first, where you can capture a memorable portrait with the stunning backdrop. Then, you will embark on a guided tour of the ruins, delving into the fascinating history of the approximately 200 houses and temples that once thrived here. From the vantage point above, you can envision the grandeur of the city during the height of the Inca empire, a truly awe-inspiring experience.
lunch
A complete lunch is included during the Machu Picchu tour.
Return to Cusco by Train
In the afternoon, we will board the train and make our way back to the city of Cusco.
dinner
Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included.
Ruinas Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Cusco.
Info
Airport Transfer
TrovaTrip provides 2 transfers to Alejandro Velazco Astete International Airport (CUZ) on the last day.
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Physical Activity Level:Strenuous
These trips require serious physical activity. You may need special certifications and experience to participate in these adrenaline-pumping challenges. If your idea of a good time is scaling mountains, multi-day hikes or deep-sea dives, these level 5 itineraries have your name all over them.
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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Traveling with TrovaTrip
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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.
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.
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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.
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Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?
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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.
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Are flights included in the trip cost?
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