Day 1: Lima to Nor-Yauyos National Park:

Today you will get to see Peru’s incredible geographic and cultural diversity from the comfort of a private vehicle. Departing Lima, you will drive North through the coastal desert for 100 kilometers before turning East into the Cañete valley. Here you will begin your dramatic and unforgettable climb into the Andes, passing through picturesque villages and stunning peaks, cliffs and ravines. After a full day’s drive, you will settle into your relaxing riverside hotel in the late afternoon. (Lunch, dinner). Overnight at Villa de Arma (Double room)

Day 2: Huancaya and Nor-Yauyos National Park:

Continuing in your private vehicle, you will explore the majestic Nor-Yauyos National park visiting the traditional communities and picturesque valleys of Huancaya and Vica. A hearty picnic lunch will be served next to one of the reserve’s many magnificent waterfalls and lakes. By late afternoon, you will arrive at the community of Tanta, where you will camp for the night and get a chance to meet the llamera who will be trekking with you the following morning. (Breakfast/ lunch/ dinner).

Day 3: The Great Inca Trail –Portachuelo Pass to Tarhuay:

Your first day of trekking will start near the summit of the legendary 4800-meter Portachuelo Pass. Trekking West (that’s downhill!), for approximately five kilometers you will descend the grand and seldom-visited Inca staircase that has been watched over by the looming Apu (sacred peak) of Pariacaca for six centuries. After passing the caves at Cuchimachay, you will reach your picturesque camp overlooking Mullucocha Lake, for your first night on the Great Inca Trail. (Breakfast/ lunch/ dinner).

Day 4: The Great Inca Trail – Tarhuay to Tambo Real:

After enjoying a substantial breakfast and watching the spectacle of the llama train being readied, you will continue West on the Inca road traversing the shore of Lake Mullucocha onward to Tambo Real (an ancient Inca way station) where you will have the afternoon to relax and take in the views. The day features approximately 10 kilometers of spectacular Inca road paved with giant rock slabs, not to mention awe-inspiring landscapes and fascinating cultural exchange. (Breakfast/ lunch/ dinner).

Day 5: Tambo Real to Lima:

Departing the trail by vehicle, you will head towards the village of San Juan de Tantaranche, before dropping back down 12,000 feet through the beautiful Mala Valley before arriving to the Pacific coast at Lima. Depending on the time of your onward flight, you may have time for a meal at one of Lima’s world-leading restaurants (we can assist with reservations). (Breakfast)