Peru: the Sacred Valley
Acclimatise low, climb slowly, and see Machu Picchu before the crowds.
Peru · Expeditions
Peru expeditions
The Sacred Valley, a private trek to Machu Picchu and the Amazon or Lake Titicaca, with altitude planned for.
Peru as an expedition means walking: the classic Inca Trail or a quieter route through the Andes to Machu Picchu, with a private guide, porters and camps that are comfortable rather than spartan. Around it we build the Sacred Valley, the Amazon or the lake.
Tell us how fit the party is and how many nights you have. Twelve to fourteen covers a trek and two other regions.
Where we go
The Sacred Valley for two or three nights to acclimatise, a four- or five-day trek on the Inca Trail or the Salkantay or Lares routes, Machu Picchu itself, then Cusco. The Amazon by Puerto Maldonado or Lake Titicaca for the second act.
How the week runs
Gentle first days at lower altitude, then the trek with a private guide and a support team: proper tents, a cook and a dining tent. Machu Picchu at dawn after the trail. Flights link Cusco to the Amazon or Lima.
Who it suits and when
Walkers and families with teenagers who want to earn the view. April to October is the dry season; the classic trail closes in February; permits for peak months sell out far ahead.
- Best time
- May to October for the dry season in the Andes. Lima is best from December to April.
- Suits
- Travellers who want remoteness without roughing it · Walkers and photographers · Families with older children
- Also see
- Peru overview · Expeditions everywhere
Example journeys
Expeditions itineraries in Peru
Good to know
Questions about expeditions in Peru
How hard is the Inca Trail?
Four days at altitude with long ascents on the second day. Fit walkers manage it well; alternative routes are gentler and quieter.
Is there a planning fee?
No. The first conversation and the proposal are free. You pay when you accept the plan.
Is this a live booking?
No. It is a starting point. A specialist writes a private proposal and availability is confirmed then.
Plan expeditions in Peru
A specialist replies personally with a first private proposal: stays, pacing, and a guide price. No obligation for the first conversation.