Peru Trekking the Road Less Traveled
Peru Trekking the Road Less Traveled
Cusco, Peru
Up to 12 in group
Sep 13 - 21, 2025
Retreat Highlights
- September 13–21, 2025
- Embark on a 9-day journey through the Andes, exploring remote trails and immersing yourself in authentic Peruvian culture.
- Highlights:
- Cusco Exploration: Acclimate in Cusco with visits to the Temple of the Sun (Korikancha), Plaza de Armas, and nearby Inca sites like Sacsayhuaman.
- Sacred Valley: Discover the vibrant market of Pisaq and the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray.
- Community Engagement: Collaborate with the Misquiyaco, Pampaccahua, and Chamana communities, supporting local efforts to protect the Meso Andean Relic Cloud Forest.
- Trekking Adventure: Traverse off-the-beaten-path trails, experiencing the solitude and beauty of the Andes.
- Cultural Immersion: Stay in community-run campsites, learn traditional weaving and farming techniques, and share meals with Indigenous families.
About this Retreat
Details of this retreat
This itinerary is unlike any out there. In working closely with the local communities, we designed a specialty trek capturing the beauty and solitude of the Andes. Camping in the Misquiyaco, Pampaccahua, and Chamana communities allows us the chance to support their efforts in protecting their Meso Andean Relic Cloud Forest.
Your travels include:
-Be a trailblazer with us as we explore this brand new trail created and discover in collaboration with the Misquiyaco, Pampaccahua, and Chamana communities.
-Visit the Chincheros Weavers in the Sacred Valley, explore one of the earliest agricultural experimental “labs” on the planet, Moray, and meander through the residentially owned salt “mine” with 3000 bright white and multicolored salt pans
-Experience the humbling beauty and awe-inspiring vastness of the Andes on a four-day luxury camping trek
-Explore Machu Picchu with our highly-educated guide
Be prepared for a moderate to intense hiking experience that will open your eyes to the magic and awe-instilling power of the Andes mountains as they soak into your spirit and rejuvenate and invigorate your mind and body.
Your travels include:
-Be a trailblazer with us as we explore this brand new trail created and discover in collaboration with the Misquiyaco, Pampaccahua, and Chamana communities.
-Visit the Chincheros Weavers in the Sacred Valley, explore one of the earliest agricultural experimental “labs” on the planet, Moray, and meander through the residentially owned salt “mine” with 3000 bright white and multicolored salt pans
-Experience the humbling beauty and awe-inspiring vastness of the Andes on a four-day luxury camping trek
-Explore Machu Picchu with our highly-educated guide
Be prepared for a moderate to intense hiking experience that will open your eyes to the magic and awe-instilling power of the Andes mountains as they soak into your spirit and rejuvenate and invigorate your mind and body.
Schedule
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival, we will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. Rest and relaxation are encouraged today as the city sits at an elevation of 11,000' and most of us will be feeling the effects of the altitude. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of Cusco and dinner on your own.
Your hotel is located right off the ever vibrant Plaza de Armas.
Day 2: Explore Cusco
After breakfast, we’ll explore the ancient city of Cusco. Our City Tour begins with a visit to the Temple of the Sun at the Koricancha, followed by a walk back to the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) to take in the impressive cathedral at its center.
A pleasant walk downhill and back into town delivers an afternoon at your leisure.
Day 3: Sacred Valley & Community Visit
After breakfast, we will drive the Urubamba, or Sacred Valley, to visit the Chincheros Weavers where we will learn traditional practices of all stages of weaving, from the yarn making and dying process to the actual weaving of the yarn. Next we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
We’ll then make our way to Moray, where you will have the privilege of exploring one of the earliest agricultural experimental “labs” on the planet. It is believed that the beautiful and elegantly constructed descending circular terraces were used to support a variety of microclimates, encouraging the growth of specific crops attuned to each climate. The temperature difference between the uppermost and lowest levels can vary by as much as 15°C (59 °F). Plants that thrive at the deepest level of over 30 meters (98 ft) are different species from those that thrive at the uppermost levels. To think that indigenous Peruvians used experimental techniques to nurture diverse food crops centuries before modern greenhouse techniques were invented, is truly impressive!
Shortly there after we’ll arrive in Maras, famously known for its spectacular mountainside salt ponds. Here residents “mine” with 3000 bright white and multicolored salt pans, which are divided among local families. You will be able to observe the salt pans from a viewpoint and taste the famous Maras salt, known for its beneficial health properties. You’ll get a glimpse into a lifestyle very different from your own, as you learn about the techniques used to extract this mineral-rich condiment. Purchasing a bag of precious salt will help support this community in maintaining their centuries-old traditional way of life.
In the afternoon, we'll return to Cusco for dinner and stay overnight..
Day 4: Trek Begins
From Cusco, we drive toward Limatambo, past the Tika Tika Pass where we will gain our first views of majestic Mount Salkantay and Humantay on the horizon, before crossing the Anta plateau. Driving past breathtaking panoramas of this vibrant agricultural region with views of rugged snowcapped peaks in the background, we will arrive at the trailhead just beyond the village of Misquiyaco where we’ll begin our trek through one of Peru’s newest private conservation areas signed into law in 2021.
We begin our uphill hike through an old growth Meso-Andean Relict Forest, a rare type of inter-Andean cloud forest that exists in less than 0.02% of Peru’s vast territory. Among the species that inhabit this forest are the Tasta (Escallonia myrtilloides) and Chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa) tree species, which are protected by Peruvian law.
As we approach the heights, we will observe how the ecosystem changes with the altitude, leaving behind the tree line to enter the high grasslands to reach our campsite at Acopía (13,628 ft.).
Trekking time: ~5-6 hours
Trekking distance: 5.78 miles
Bus ride: 95 km (59.03 mi)/Time: 3:00 hours
Accommodations: Camping
Day 5: Trekking & Cultural Immersion
Leaving Acopía, we will continue our uphill climb toward the first pass at Tambomachay (4367 km/ 14,323 ft). As the day warms up, we may see some Andean bird species, including Condors, as they soar majestically above the mountains.
After 5-6 hours of gentle uphill climbing, we will reach our lunch spot Uspaccasa (4,559 km/ 14,953 ft), a sheltered area just beyond the pass with majestic views of Mt. Salkantay and Mt. Humantay.
After lunch, we’ll continue along the high ridge and veer right toward Cruzjasa Pass (4,683 km / 15,360 ft) where we will have fantastic views of the South face of Mt. Palcay, the south face of Mt. Salkantay and the Pampacahuana Valley and enjoy the special feeling of solitude that comes with knowing there are few other humans in the vicinity.
From here, we descend on a steep trail to our campsite where we will sleep surrounded by mountains and stars at Mirador de Pampacahuana (3902 km / 12,801 ft).
Trekking time: ~7-8 hours
Trekking distance: 9.20 miles
Altitude: Min. 12,864 ft | Max. 15,808 ft
Accommodations: Camping
Day 6: Continue Trekking
We’ll take our leave of imposing Mt. Salkantay and continue our hike downhill along an ancient Inca canal flowing down the center of the Pampacahuana Valley, passing through a landscape dotted with small farm settlements. At the end of the valley, we’ll once more begin to observe a greater variety of vegetation as we descend past the tree line before arriving in Paucarcancha, a remote Inca site at the confluence of the Pampacahuana and Q ́esca valleys.
After a short visit to explore the Inca stone walls and remnants of ancient houses at the site, we will have lunch. Then we’ll continue our journey downhill and join the first stretch of the famed Inca Trail, descending toward the Patallacta ruins. This site was once an important rest stop for the Inca on the way to Machu Picchu. After a brief visit, we will continue to our campsite at Chamana, which is a private campsite that we have equipped with a hot shower for you to cleanse and refresh after the strenuous activity of the previous few days.
Camp at Chamana (2585 km / 8480 ft).
Trekking time: ~7-8 hours
Trekking distance: 10.19 miles
Altitude: Min. 8,481 ft | Max. 12,864 ft
Accommodations: Camping
Day 7: Final Trekking Day
At this point, we will be on the edge of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Aer visiting the ruins of Huayna Q’ente, with its amazing Inca terraces and impressive landscaping, we will leave the Sanctuary through the town of Q’oriwairachina and head towards Piscacucho, where the main entrance to the Inca Trail is located.
The trail will take us alongside the Vilcanota River and through several more ancient archaeological sites. In fact, this is the same path that Hiram Bingham used when he was first led to Machu Picchu by local people living here in 1911. From here, we’ll travel by car to Ollantaytambo, in time to take the afternoon train to Machu Picchu Village, where we’ll spend the night before visiting the magical citadel of Machu Picchu tomorrow.
Trekking time: ~5-6 hours
Trekking distance: 9.63 miles
Altitude: Min. 8107 ft | Max. 9213 ft
Bus ride: 15.6 km (9.69 mi)/Time: 0:30 hours
Train ride: 43 km (26.72 mi)/Time: 1:45 hours
Accommodations: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Day 8: Machu Picchu
After an early breakfast, a quick, half-hour bus ride brings us up the road to the gates of Machu Picchu where we’ll enjoy a guided three-hour tour of this ancient hilltop citadel. Exploring the various sectors and entering some of the houses and temples will bring these iconic ruins to life for us. As we immerse in this mystical place, we’ll feel that we’ve entered a dream of ancient times.
Wandering among these ancient manmade structures blended seamlessly into natural surroundings, will leave us with a sense of wonder and reverence, and gift us with memories to savor for years to come.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to the village where a train will take us back to Ollantaytambo. On-board entertainment, snacks, and hot and cold refreshments are available. We will arrive in the Ollantaytambo train station, where we will be picked up and driven back to the city of Cusco.
Dinner on your own.
Bus ride: 12.4 km (7.71 mi)/Time: 1 hour
Train ride: 43 km (26.72 mi)/Time: 1:45 hours
Day 9: Farewell!
Today you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your return flight home.
Upon arrival, we will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. Rest and relaxation are encouraged today as the city sits at an elevation of 11,000' and most of us will be feeling the effects of the altitude. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of Cusco and dinner on your own.
Your hotel is located right off the ever vibrant Plaza de Armas.
Day 2: Explore Cusco
After breakfast, we’ll explore the ancient city of Cusco. Our City Tour begins with a visit to the Temple of the Sun at the Koricancha, followed by a walk back to the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) to take in the impressive cathedral at its center.
A pleasant walk downhill and back into town delivers an afternoon at your leisure.
Day 3: Sacred Valley & Community Visit
After breakfast, we will drive the Urubamba, or Sacred Valley, to visit the Chincheros Weavers where we will learn traditional practices of all stages of weaving, from the yarn making and dying process to the actual weaving of the yarn. Next we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
We’ll then make our way to Moray, where you will have the privilege of exploring one of the earliest agricultural experimental “labs” on the planet. It is believed that the beautiful and elegantly constructed descending circular terraces were used to support a variety of microclimates, encouraging the growth of specific crops attuned to each climate. The temperature difference between the uppermost and lowest levels can vary by as much as 15°C (59 °F). Plants that thrive at the deepest level of over 30 meters (98 ft) are different species from those that thrive at the uppermost levels. To think that indigenous Peruvians used experimental techniques to nurture diverse food crops centuries before modern greenhouse techniques were invented, is truly impressive!
Shortly there after we’ll arrive in Maras, famously known for its spectacular mountainside salt ponds. Here residents “mine” with 3000 bright white and multicolored salt pans, which are divided among local families. You will be able to observe the salt pans from a viewpoint and taste the famous Maras salt, known for its beneficial health properties. You’ll get a glimpse into a lifestyle very different from your own, as you learn about the techniques used to extract this mineral-rich condiment. Purchasing a bag of precious salt will help support this community in maintaining their centuries-old traditional way of life.
In the afternoon, we'll return to Cusco for dinner and stay overnight..
Day 4: Trek Begins
From Cusco, we drive toward Limatambo, past the Tika Tika Pass where we will gain our first views of majestic Mount Salkantay and Humantay on the horizon, before crossing the Anta plateau. Driving past breathtaking panoramas of this vibrant agricultural region with views of rugged snowcapped peaks in the background, we will arrive at the trailhead just beyond the village of Misquiyaco where we’ll begin our trek through one of Peru’s newest private conservation areas signed into law in 2021.
We begin our uphill hike through an old growth Meso-Andean Relict Forest, a rare type of inter-Andean cloud forest that exists in less than 0.02% of Peru’s vast territory. Among the species that inhabit this forest are the Tasta (Escallonia myrtilloides) and Chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa) tree species, which are protected by Peruvian law.
As we approach the heights, we will observe how the ecosystem changes with the altitude, leaving behind the tree line to enter the high grasslands to reach our campsite at Acopía (13,628 ft.).
Trekking time: ~5-6 hours
Trekking distance: 5.78 miles
Bus ride: 95 km (59.03 mi)/Time: 3:00 hours
Accommodations: Camping
Day 5: Trekking & Cultural Immersion
Leaving Acopía, we will continue our uphill climb toward the first pass at Tambomachay (4367 km/ 14,323 ft). As the day warms up, we may see some Andean bird species, including Condors, as they soar majestically above the mountains.
After 5-6 hours of gentle uphill climbing, we will reach our lunch spot Uspaccasa (4,559 km/ 14,953 ft), a sheltered area just beyond the pass with majestic views of Mt. Salkantay and Mt. Humantay.
After lunch, we’ll continue along the high ridge and veer right toward Cruzjasa Pass (4,683 km / 15,360 ft) where we will have fantastic views of the South face of Mt. Palcay, the south face of Mt. Salkantay and the Pampacahuana Valley and enjoy the special feeling of solitude that comes with knowing there are few other humans in the vicinity.
From here, we descend on a steep trail to our campsite where we will sleep surrounded by mountains and stars at Mirador de Pampacahuana (3902 km / 12,801 ft).
Trekking time: ~7-8 hours
Trekking distance: 9.20 miles
Altitude: Min. 12,864 ft | Max. 15,808 ft
Accommodations: Camping
Day 6: Continue Trekking
We’ll take our leave of imposing Mt. Salkantay and continue our hike downhill along an ancient Inca canal flowing down the center of the Pampacahuana Valley, passing through a landscape dotted with small farm settlements. At the end of the valley, we’ll once more begin to observe a greater variety of vegetation as we descend past the tree line before arriving in Paucarcancha, a remote Inca site at the confluence of the Pampacahuana and Q ́esca valleys.
After a short visit to explore the Inca stone walls and remnants of ancient houses at the site, we will have lunch. Then we’ll continue our journey downhill and join the first stretch of the famed Inca Trail, descending toward the Patallacta ruins. This site was once an important rest stop for the Inca on the way to Machu Picchu. After a brief visit, we will continue to our campsite at Chamana, which is a private campsite that we have equipped with a hot shower for you to cleanse and refresh after the strenuous activity of the previous few days.
Camp at Chamana (2585 km / 8480 ft).
Trekking time: ~7-8 hours
Trekking distance: 10.19 miles
Altitude: Min. 8,481 ft | Max. 12,864 ft
Accommodations: Camping
Day 7: Final Trekking Day
At this point, we will be on the edge of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Aer visiting the ruins of Huayna Q’ente, with its amazing Inca terraces and impressive landscaping, we will leave the Sanctuary through the town of Q’oriwairachina and head towards Piscacucho, where the main entrance to the Inca Trail is located.
The trail will take us alongside the Vilcanota River and through several more ancient archaeological sites. In fact, this is the same path that Hiram Bingham used when he was first led to Machu Picchu by local people living here in 1911. From here, we’ll travel by car to Ollantaytambo, in time to take the afternoon train to Machu Picchu Village, where we’ll spend the night before visiting the magical citadel of Machu Picchu tomorrow.
Trekking time: ~5-6 hours
Trekking distance: 9.63 miles
Altitude: Min. 8107 ft | Max. 9213 ft
Bus ride: 15.6 km (9.69 mi)/Time: 0:30 hours
Train ride: 43 km (26.72 mi)/Time: 1:45 hours
Accommodations: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Day 8: Machu Picchu
After an early breakfast, a quick, half-hour bus ride brings us up the road to the gates of Machu Picchu where we’ll enjoy a guided three-hour tour of this ancient hilltop citadel. Exploring the various sectors and entering some of the houses and temples will bring these iconic ruins to life for us. As we immerse in this mystical place, we’ll feel that we’ve entered a dream of ancient times.
Wandering among these ancient manmade structures blended seamlessly into natural surroundings, will leave us with a sense of wonder and reverence, and gift us with memories to savor for years to come.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to the village where a train will take us back to Ollantaytambo. On-board entertainment, snacks, and hot and cold refreshments are available. We will arrive in the Ollantaytambo train station, where we will be picked up and driven back to the city of Cusco.
Dinner on your own.
Bus ride: 12.4 km (7.71 mi)/Time: 1 hour
Train ride: 43 km (26.72 mi)/Time: 1:45 hours
Day 9: Farewell!
Today you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your return flight home.
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
Getting Here
Root Adventures, Cusco, Peru
Directions
You’ll need to make sure you are in Cusco, Peru any time on September 13, 2025.
Please depart from Cusco, Peru any time on September 21, 2025.
We take care of all other transportation!
Please depart from Cusco, Peru any time on September 21, 2025.
We take care of all other transportation!
Accommodation
Nestled in Cusco’s historic San Blas district, Antigua Casona San Blas is a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion that blends colonial charm with modern comfort. Just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas, this boutique hotel offers 26 elegantly appointed rooms featuring handcrafted wooden furniture, plush king-sized beds, and cozy amenities like in-room heating and nightly turndown service with hot water bottles and sleepy-time tea. kimkim Guests can unwind in the tranquil courtyard, complete with fire pits, or indulge in Peruvian fusion cuisine at the on-site restaurant, Piedra & Sal. The hotel also boasts a spa offering therapeutic massages, a jacuzzi, sauna, and a unique hyperbaric chamber to aid in altitude adjustment. With its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, Antigua Casona San Blas provides an authentic and serene retreat in the heart of Cusco. Our superior guides and support staff will provide a camping experience like no other. Upon arrival at the trailhead, you will feel supported in all areas. Our porters carry your bags to the campsite ahead of you, ensuring your campsite is set and ready for your arrival. Our spacious 3-person tents for 2 people and thick camping mattresses ensure you have a comfy sleep. Each evening and morning you will enjoy a basin of hot water outside your tent to clean up and feel refreshed. We great you each morning with your choice of tea or coffee in your tent before you meet us in our dining tent equipped with tables and chairs for a hot breakfast. We also provide a private tent with a transportable toilet ensuring we leave no trace!
Program Price Per Person - Double Occupancy
Program Price Per Person - Single Occupancy
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
Sleeping accommodations are a combination of hotel stays and camping as detailed in the itinerary. All camping is double occupancy. For hotel accommodations there is a pricing option for single occupancy. See below for more details!
Meals
Menu Types
Vegan
Vegetarian
Pescetarian
Ayurvedic
Includes Meat
Organic
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Nourishment is key—body, mind, and soul. Enjoy wholesome meals on the trail and vibrant Peruvian cuisine in town. Dietary needs welcomed—you're cared for every step of the way.
What's Included
- We provide a full service experience. Included in your trip cost:
- +Transportation
- +Professional bilingual guide
- +Hotel in Machu Picchu Village
- +Train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Village and from Machu Picchu Village to Cusco
- +Bus ticket Machu Picchu – Machu Picchu Village (round trip)
- +Double occupancy tents with Thermarest sleeping pads
- +Guided tour in Machu Picchu
- +Lunch in Machu Picchu Village on day 5
- +All meals during trek
- +Non-alcoholic drinks
- +Kitchen and dining tents
- +Cook and field staff
- +Horses and drivers
- +Entrance tickets
- +Solar energy lamps
- +Eco toilets
- +Adequate garbage disposal
- +First aid kit and oxygen tank
- +Meals as detailed
- +Daily mindfulness activities
- +2 pre-trip calls
- +2 post trip calls
- +Access to our Director of Traveler Experience who can help answer all your questions logistical, emotional, or otherwise!
- +Tips/Gratuities
- +6 Week Post-Trip Meditation Series to help integrate your experience
- + 3 month pre-trip preparation series
- +Lifetime access to the Root Community
What's Not Included
- Airfare to and from the retreat location
- Travel insurance (required)
- Any pre- or post-retreat accommodations or activities
- Alcohol or extra snacks/souvenirs