Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure

  • 10 Days
  • 14 People Max

    5 - 14 guests

  • Activity Level 4
    • Activity Level 4

      Challenge Accepted

      I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Cuzco
  • Trip End: Cuzco
Ultimate Peru Adventure Trip

Feast your eyes on magnificent landscapes, ancient ruins and dense jungles on our Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure

Starting and finishing in Cuzco, you'll hike in the footsteps of the Incas, cycle through Andean villages and explore the Amazon jungle on our 10-day Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure. Every day will have you exploring new landscapes and taking in the captivating history Peru has to offer. You'll have the choice to hike either the Classic Inca Trail or the lesser-known Lares Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where you'll have plenty of time to explore the enchanting passageways and stone structures. That's not all this adventure entails though, you'll also cycle through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, hike the Sacsayhuamán fortress, visit Pisac market and wander the virgin jungle of the Amazon. The variety of activities and landscapes on this Ultimate Peru Adventure tour will give you a Peruvian trip like no other – and an experience you'll never forget!

   This trip is operated by Active Adventures.

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Cuzco Trip End: Cuzco
  • Day 1Arrive in Cuzco, hike Sacsayhuaman Fortress

  • Day 2Cycle Sacred Valley, visit Pisac Market, hike Pisac Ruins

  • Day 3Start Of Multi-Day Options

  • Day 3 Option ALares Trail: Hike to Cuncani

  • Day 3 Option BClassic Inca Trail: Hike through the sacred Valley of the Incas

  • Day 4Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 4 Option ALares Trail: Hike over Paso de Pumahuanca to Paccha

  • Day 4 Option BClassic Inca Trail: Hike to Pacaymayo

  • Day 5Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 5 Option ALares Trail: Hike to Ollantaytambo

  • Day 5 Option BClassic Inca Trail: Hike to Winay Wayna

  • Day 6Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 6 Option ALares Trail: Visit Machu Picchu

  • Day 6 Option BClassic Inca Trail: Hike to Machu Picchu

  • Day 7Free day in Cuzco

  • Day 8Journey to the Amazon, wildlife viewing in Tambopata Reserve

  • Day 9Wildlife hike, virgin jungle exploration

  • Day 10Return to Cuzco, depart for home

  • Day 1

    Arrive in Cuzco, hike Sacsayhuaman Fortress

    #643

    Our trip starts in Cuzco, the heart of the Inca empire. Your trip leader will greet you with a cup of hot coca tea – a local specialty. After lunch, we’ll set off for a walk around this amazing ancient city and up to Sacsayhuamán fortress overlooking the main Plaza and Cuzco Valley. The fortress, meaning ‘House of the Sun’, is a magnificent archaeological site representing a set of jaguar’s teeth with massive, perfectly fitted stones weighing up to 130 tonnes (143 tons) each and was the place where the Incas made their final stand against the Spanish conquistadores. No one really knows what the Incas used Sacsayhuamán for – some say it was a sanctuary and temple of the sun, others say it was a granary. No matter who is right, you’ll have a lot of fun hearing all the stories this amazing area inspires. Later, we’ll take a walk through the colorful Cuzco street markets. If you prefer, you can take some time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Cuzco’s lively town square and meet up again later for an evening meal.

    Ramada Wyndham Costa del Sol, Cuzco (Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)

  • Day 2

    Cycle Sacred Valley, visit Pisac Market, hike Pisac Ruins

    #644

    We’ll head into the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas this morning, stopping just above Cuzco, where we’ll jump on our bikes and ride down through breathtaking scenery, dotted with local villages and surrounded by the massive green slopes of the Andes. We’ll finish our ride in the small town of Pisac, where we’ll have a chance to check out the colorful mercado artesanal. From here we’ll begin a spectacular hike up to the Pisac ruins. These Inca terraces rise 610 meters (2000 feet) up from the river below. It’s a heart-pumping walk up through ancient agricultural terraces – you’ll never forget the views of Pisac and the Urubamba Valley! After exploring the ancient complex, we’ll descend the original Inca stairways and head back down the valley to Cuzco. This is the largest existing fortress-city of the Incas, and it’s the perfect warm-up for your Inca Trail trek tomorrow!

    Ramada Wyndham Costa del Sol, Cuzco (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Biking: 20 kilometers (12 miles), 2-3 hours
    Hiking: 3 kilometers (1.8 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation + 250 meters (1,476 feet)

  • Day 3

    Start Of Multi-Day Options

    It’s an early start this morning as we start our Multi-day treks to Machu Picchu!

  • Day 3 Option A

    Lares Trail: Hike to Cuncani

    From Cuzco, we’ll head in the direction of the Sacred Valley. The road leads to Lares and crosses the Amparaes Pass. This phenomenal drive winds through arid landscapes, crosses rivers and you’ll see some of the most stunning mountain vistas in Peru. Our final destination is the hot baths of Lares. Here, naturally occurring hot springs await us before we set out on our trek. From the thermal baths unfolds a small track used by local children and community members of Lares. We’ll pass through hand-tilled fields and crops of quinoa and potato, amongst quaint stone houses. After a gradual climb of a few hours, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch, before continuing on to the community of Cuncani, where we’ll set up camp for the evening. Elevation: Lares Inca Trail Camp - 3,840 meters (12,600 feet)

    Lares Inca Trail Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), 4-6 hours, elevation + 600 meters (1,968 feet)

  • Day 3 Option B

    Classic Inca Trail: Hike through the sacred Valley of the Incas

    We’ll leave Cuzco and make our way through the Sacred Valley of the Incas before starting our hike at Piscacucho, or Kilometer 82 as it is known by the locals. From here we’ll spend the day hiking alongside the Rio Cusichaca, surrounded by massive Andean peaks, Inca ruins, and semi-arid forest. We’ll visit a couple of small villages along the way, then have lunch and rest a while on the way to our first camp, Pisonay. When you arrive at camp, you’ll find our porters have set up your tent so you can simply relax with a hot drink and get to know your fellow travelers. Tonight our cooks will prepare the first of many sumptuous hot meals for us to enjoy in our dining tent – you’ll be impressed how well we take care of you on the trail. Elevation: Classic Inca Trail Camp - 3,000 meters (9,842 feet)

    Classic Inca Trail Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 12 kilometers (7.3 miles), 5-7 hours, elevation + 400 meters (1,312 feet)

  • Day 4

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 4 Option A

    Lares Trail: Hike over Paso de Pumahuanca to Paccha

    If we have clear skies at sunrise, we’ll wake to the imposing view of Colque Crus, a majestic mountain capped by a glacier, which provides water to the local community. We follow the path next to an icy stream that will take us towards the pass. The ascent is challenging. On reaching the summit a stunning view of the Pampas of Anta awaits us, followed by a descent that will be most welcome after the challenging climb. The descent is steep but beautiful, crossing a small forest of ‘Polylepis’, the endemic and endangered trees of the high Andes. Just after the forest and with an incredible view of the valley below we will stop for lunch. After which the drop continues until we reach our camp, a tranquil paradise surrounded by trees and crossed by a small river. Tonight, if we find some dead tinder, we’ll enjoy a cosy campfire. Elevation: Lares Inca Trail Camp - 4,040 meters (13,400 feet)

    Lares Inca Trail Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 12.5 kilometers (7.8 miles), 7-9 hours, elevation + 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)

  • Day 4 Option B

    Classic Inca Trail: Hike to Pacaymayo

    Today is an unforgettable day. You’ll be woken with a cup of coca tea brought to your tent door. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our hike on what will be our most challenging day. Today we climb 914 meters (3000 feet) up to Warmiwañusqa, or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ altitude 4400 meters (14,435 feet). The trail winds its way up through a beautiful mountain pass with stunning panoramic views of the alpine wonderland. It’s a challenging hike to the pass, and the 360º views make every step worthwhile. After celebrating our ascent, we’ll walk down cobbled steps paved by the Incas over 500 years ago to Pacaymayo Valley, our camp for the evening. Again, we’ll already have tents set up so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the evening. Elevation: Classic Inca Trail Camp - 3,580 meters (11,745 feet)

    Classic Inca Trail Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 11 kilometers (7 miles), 6-8 hours, elevation + 1,200 metres (3,937 feet) / 600 metres (1,968 feet)

  • Day 5

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 5 Option A

    Lares Trail: Hike to Ollantaytambo

    This morning will be our last on the trail. From camp, the walk becomes easier down to the piscigranja (fish farm). As we descend we’ll feel the climate changing, becoming warmer and more alive, with more variety in vegetation, and we’ll be accompanied by hummingbirds along the way. After a few short hours, we’ll meet our private transportation that will take us to Ollantaytambo Station to board the train to Aguas Calientes. As the train travels along, the valley turns into a canyon and the scenery alters, as the cloud forests begin to appear, on our approach to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. We will disembark the train at Aguas Calientes. After a well-deserved shower, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the best restaurants in town. Elevation: Aguas Calientes - 2,040 meters (6,692 feet)

    Hatun Inti Boutique, Aguas Calientes (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 6 kilometers (3.6 miles), 4-5 hours, elevation - 800 meters (2,624 feet)

  • Day 5 Option B

    Classic Inca Trail: Hike to Winay Wayna

    The scenery gets even better today! We’ll explore several fascinating Inca fortresses as we descend, with the cloud forest becoming lusher and lusher as the air becomes warmer and denser. The ancient ruins and increasingly verdant surroundings lend an eerie mood to the day as we make our way down to our next camp, Wiñay Wayna. This is our final night on the trail, with breathtaking views and another hearty dinner! Elevation: Classic Inca Trail Camp - 3,600 meters (11,810 feet)

    Classic Inca Trail Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 12 kilometers (7.3 miles), 6-8 hours, elevation - 800 meters (2,624 feet)

  • Day 6

    Multi-Day Options Continued

  • Day 6 Option A

    Lares Trail: Visit Machu Picchu

    After an early breakfast, we’ll head up to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, where we’ll join the rest of our group. We’ll meet our local guide who will show us around this fascinating ancient city. Afterward, you’ll have all morning to explore the many passageways and stone structures of this mysterious place on your own. If you were on the Lares Trail, you’ll also have the chance to hike back to the Sun Gate for a unique perspective on these remote Inca ruins, set high on the top of a mountain surrounded by lush peaks. After plenty of time to explore Machu Picchu, we’ll take a scenic train ride back to Cuzco.

    Ramada Wyndham Costa del Sol, Cuzco (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: wander around the ruins, 3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)

  • Day 6 Option B

    Classic Inca Trail: Hike to Machu Picchu

    After a very early breakfast, we hike about an hour in the dawn light to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. We’ll wait here for the sun to rise and the morning fog to lift, giving us our first glimpse of Machu Picchu. It’s a moment to savor before we make our way down to explore this mysterious ancient city! We’ll meet our local guide who will show us around this fascinating ancient city. Afterward, you’ll have all morning to explore the many passageways and stone structures of this mysterious place on your own. If you were on the Lares Trail, you’ll also have the chance to hike back to the Sun Gate for a unique perspective on these remote Inca ruins, set high on the top of a mountain surrounded by lush peaks. After plenty of time to explore Machu Picchu, we’ll take a scenic train ride back to Cuzco.

    Ramada Wyndham Costa del Sol, Cuzco (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 7.3 kilometers (4.5 miles), 6-7 hours, elevation + 600 meters (1,968 feet)
    Hiking: Wander around the ruins, 3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)

  • Day 7

    Free day in Cuzco

    #649

    Cuzco is the archaeological capital of the Americas and it’s a fabulous place to spend a day exploring – it’s no wonder it’s the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city! Walk along Cuzco’s central streets, lined with massive Inca-built stone walls that form the foundation of the city and blend into the colonial and modern architecture that has been added over the years. You can take the day to explore Cuzco’s most popular temples, museums, churches and fortresses. Alternatively, we’ll help you arrange one of the many optional guided activities available including mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding. There’s also no shortage of great food and entertainment in Cuzco, with restaurants to suit any taste, cafés for coffee in the Plaza de Armas and great bars with local music.

    Rymada Wyndham Costa del Sol, Cuzco (Breakfast)

  • Day 8

    Journey to the Amazon, wildlife viewing in Tambopata Reserve

    #650

    Today we’ll take a short flight from Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado, a frontier town in the Amazon basin. We’ll take to motorized canoes and glide deep into the jungle down the Tambopata River, one of the headwaters of the Amazon. Listen for howler monkeys in the tropical forest canopy above and spot macaws perched high on the riverbanks. This area is teeming with wildlife and the boat trip to our jungle lodge is a great opportunity to look for giant otters, capuchin monkeys, caiman and an array of birds that can be found in this area. After lunch, we’ll experience the jungle with all of our senses by exploring on foot this time. Keep an eye out for the rainforest dwellers – including several species of monkeys – that come out in search of food in the late afternoon! After dark, you’ll have a chance to get back on board the canoes with a spotlight in search of the nocturnal caiman (South American crocodile) lurking in the river.

    Sachavacayoc Lodge, Amazon jungle (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2 hours, short hikes in the jungle

  • Day 9

    Wildlife hike, virgin jungle exploration

    #651

    This morning we’ll explore some of the many miles of jungle trails that criss-cross the dense rainforest. We’ll travel by motorized canoe and hike through virgin forest to experience the wealth of native flora and fauna under the Amazon rainforest canopy, and learn how the indigenous people thrive in this challenging environment. The Amazon is the most biologically diverse place on Earth and you’ll discover more about the amazing flora and fauna here, as well as learn about the incredible medicinal plants that are found in this region. After lunch, you have the rest of the afternoon free to hang out at the lodge with a book or continue exploring the surrounding area on your own. If you’d prefer to hike a little more this afternoon, you can head out with our naturalist guide on little-known trails that pass by the homes of some of the rarest animals in the rainforest. This evening we’ll brave the jungle on foot to look for tarantulas, insects and frogs that come out after dark.

    Sachavacayoc Lodge, Amazon jungle (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), 1 - 2 hours

  • Day 10

    Return to Cuzco, depart for home

    This morning we leave the rainforest and take a boat back to Puerto Maldonado, where we’ll catch a short flight to Cuzco. This is the last day of your trip in Peru, if you have time to spare after the trip, we’re happy to give you suggestions on how to make the most of it. On the other hand, if you’re on your way home today, we’ll send you back refreshed and invigorated from the great food, exercise, rest and adventures you’ll have had with us in Peru!

    No Accommodation (Breakfast, Lunch)

Pick Your Multi-Day Option!

Option A: Lares Trail

The Lares Trail is a three-day trek through the real Peru that will take you over high Andean passes, past secluded lakes, along remote valleys and into local villages. This trail is somewhat less well-known than the Classic Inca Trail, but it’s an equally spectacular wilderness experience.

Option B: Classic Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail is an amazing four-day trek which will take you past ancient Incan ruins, over high Andean passes and through mysterious cloud forest. This trail is the most widely known of all the Inca trails and as a result it’s the most popular, which is why a trekking permit system exists to protect the trail and why everyone who treks the trail must do so with the assistance of a local Peruvian operator (we take care of that for you). 

Trip Dates

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $4499/per adult
16 Apr 2023
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Available for Private Trip (minimum 4 guests)
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Interactive Trip Map: Click on the map icons to read details for each day

What Our Guests Say About The Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure

view all

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - May 2022

Amazing trip with great guides

"I had a great time on the Jaguar trip - our guides were friendly, knowledgeable,… read more

"I had a great time on the Jaguar trip - our guides were friendly, knowledgeable, organized, and always helpful. Our porters and camp staff also were friendly and highly competent. The sites chosen by the guides for us to visit were always interesting, and the guides were able to provide great information about them. The information provided to us by Active Adventures was helpful and comprehensive - my only comments regarding the pre-trip information would be to update the materials to clarify that guests need a small day pack for biking and day hikes AND a 30L plus hiking bag for the Inca trail, and the pre-trip information could have included information about tipping for the porters and guides. While it is sensible that the company would not want to pressure guests into tipping a certain amount, everyone in my group had a wonderful time and genuinely wanted to show appreciation to our porters and guides. It would have been helpful to know how much cash we should have with us when departing on the trail to be able to tip each individual adequately, as well as information about when in the trip we would have an opportunity to tip both porters and guides. read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Amy, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - February 2022

Amazing Trip of a Lifetime!

"Our Jaguar Trip to Peru was outstanding in every respect. Our guides combined competence… read more

"Our Jaguar Trip to Peru was outstanding in every respect. Our guides combined competence with good cheer and flexibility. They shared interesting information about the sites while simultaneously adjusting activity levels as needed for each individual in our group. The entire experience was fabulous, from learning about other cultures and micro-climates to the accommodations to the quality and quantity of food. Active Adventures puts on a first class trip and I can't wait to go on another with them. Highly recommend! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Marjorie, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - February 2022

Fascinating Peru

"It was a fascinating cultural experience and a well organized trip. Thank you. read more

"It was a fascinating cultural experience and a well organized trip. Thank you. read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Tom, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - December 2021

A life changing experience

"Every step of the way Active Adventures exceeded my expectations. Our guide (Wilson) was one… read more

"Every step of the way Active Adventures exceeded my expectations. Our guide (Wilson) was one of the kindest and most knowledgeable people I have met. At any time you could point at a place and he would tell you everything you wanted to know and then some. He went out of his way to make sure he formed a personal relationship with each person throughout the trip. And by the time the trip was over, you felt like you were leaving family. The guide was not the only person doing a great job though, in the jungle we were taken care of by many of the great people working at the lodge in the rain forest. Yuri was our main forest guide and was obviously very qualified and intelligent. I would also like to mention that Edgar the chef that cooked for us most of the trip prepared some of the best food I have ever tasted and could make anything taste good! Just a great time! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Zachery, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - December 2021

Jaguar Trip

"All I can say is amazing!! This was my second time to do the… read more

"All I can say is amazing!! This was my second time to do the Jaguar Trip and the last time was so great that I didn't think it could get better, but I was very pleasantly surprised that it did get better. The arrangements, the organization and the guide were great! Not a complaint one. Our guide Wilson, was such a great guy! He was so friendly, so easy to deal with, well organized and so incredibly knowledgeable! He really went out of his way to make sure we were doing good and enjoying ourselves. He even made sure we got the pictures we wanted and was great at suggesting pictures that would create amazing memories. The last time I went to Peru it was alone, but this time I was accompanied by my wife and son, and it was such an incredible experience for them to experience. Wilson interacted with my wife and especially my son as though he were family. In fact, when we parted it felt like family parting to all of us! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

John, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - October 2021

Happy to be traveling again with Active Adventures!

"After the cancellation of our EBC trip twice due to the pandemic, my partner and… read more

"After the cancellation of our EBC trip twice due to the pandemic, my partner and I decided to try the South American Jaguar trip to Peru. What an incredible experience! After 4 days of a challenging hike through the mountains, reaching the Sun Gate to look down on Machu Picchu was thrilling and gratifying. Then a trip to the Amazon Jungle! Our guides were attentive and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this trip! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Elizabeth, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Ana

"I booked this trip with my son to do something diferente never in a million… read more

"I booked this trip with my son to do something diferente never in a million years I experience a beautiful life change trip read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Ana, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Christian

"Life changing trip I never know the world could be so beautiful read more

"Life changing trip I never know the world could be so beautiful read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Christian, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Inca trail

"The most amazing experience! read more

"The most amazing experience! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Lara, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Peru

"I can't say enough good things about our trip to Peru. We had a… read more

"I can't say enough good things about our trip to Peru. We had a wonderful time! Rolfi our guide on the Inca trail was fantastic and fun. Our porters were incredible and the food fantastic! read less

4 Stars (2056 reviews)

Patricia, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Feeling Pampered while hiking the Classic Inca Trail

"We had worried about how hard the Inca trail would be and read many stories… read more

"We had worried about how hard the Inca trail would be and read many stories about the "Classic Fails" on the trail. We trained hard before the trip and handled it fine. What we didn't expect was to taken care of so well. We were the only two on our Jaguar trip that opted for the "Classic Inca trail" option. That meant that we had the entire crew of porters, cook and guide to look after only us two! We felt pampered and privileged to be hiking the Inca trail so well looked after. Getting to the "Sun Gate" and viewing Macha Picchu was truly amazing...The trip of a lifetime! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

George, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Travels with Zac

"I can’t say enough positive things about our 'Jaguar' trip! I was apprehensive about the… read more

"I can’t say enough positive things about our 'Jaguar' trip! I was apprehensive about the whole thing, but found it to be a marvelous, challenging adventure. Zac was knowledgeable, encouraging, and supportive of each member of our group. We were all stretched beyond our expectations, but felt safe and looked out for throughout the trip. Salvador assisted on the Lares hike and was a joy to have with us. He too was knowledgeable and very personable. read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Dale, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - November 2019

Wonderful Experience

"Well planned and executed 10 day trip! Excellent guide and great travelling group. read more

"Well planned and executed 10 day trip! Excellent guide and great travelling group. read less

4 Stars (2056 reviews)

Lynne, Canada

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - October 2019

A Great Trip!

"Had a great time with the Jaguar trip! Everything was well-organized and our trip leader,… read more

"Had a great time with the Jaguar trip! Everything was well-organized and our trip leader, Jessica, was amazing. On reflecting about the trip, it is difficult to see where it would have been better. The food, the sights, the activities were all great. The local guides we met for the activities were all very knowledgeable and passionate for Peru - and it showed. We had a small issue with our second night at the hotel (we arrived a day early) but that was resolved quickly by Jessica. All said, a great trip! read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Stuart, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - October 2019

Jaguar is the way to see Macchu Picchu and the surrounding area

"The Jaguar trip is an excellent itinerary if you are interested in seeing Peru in… read more

"The Jaguar trip is an excellent itinerary if you are interested in seeing Peru in the area around Macchu Picchu, Inca Trail, and rainforest. The schedule is packed with interesting but accessible activities. The local guides are all unbelievably knowledgeable and our trip guide, Jessica, made every single day unforgettable. read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Mike, United States

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure - September 2019

Machu Picchu and Amazon Trip

"I would highly recommend Active Adventures. This was a wonderful trip for our… read more

"I would highly recommend Active Adventures. This was a wonderful trip for our family of 4. The guides were very helpful when we needed assistance with getting cash or a hotel room for half a day. Super great staff. read less

5 Stars (2056 reviews)

Laura, United States

amazon lodging
amazon lodging2
Antigua casona san blas cuzco
Antigua casona san blas cuzco2
inca trail camp
inca trail camp2

Accommodation

We’ve selected the accommodation on your trip for the unique character and adventuresome feel – this trip is not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Peru. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s and lodges, some of which have private bathrooms and some shared bathrooms.

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

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Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Cuzco airport (CUZ) (if your flight arrives by 11am) or Ramada Wyndham Costa del Sol at 12pm. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Cuzco, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a flight to Cuzco Airport (CUZ) in time for flights below.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Cuzco a couple of days before your trip begins to get accustomed to the 3,300 metres (10,000 feet) elevation. If this isn’t possible that’s okay – your trip is designed to begin very gently and ease you into being active at altitude!

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Cuzco any time after 6pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

 

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

As an Activity Level 3-4 trip, you’ll need a solid level of fitness for this trip. Typically, hikes on this trip range between three and six hours to complete, with longer hikes on the Inca trails. So get out there with a daypack on and train so you’ll be ready to join us! While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some up hills and down hills and carrying a pack! With a little preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We’ve chosen the places we stay for their location, cleanliness and charm – not the number of channels available on the television! Many of the places we stay are off-the-beatentrack and set in amazing locations. For example, on both Inca Trail treks we’re under canvas, though it’s pretty fancy camping. Our porters carry tents and supplies, cook meals, boil drinking water for us and take care of everything around camp.

On the nights where we stay in Cuzco we have chosen good lodgings, ideally situated close to the main attractions without being too central, in order to avoid the most touristy and noisy areas. It’s worth keeping in mind that Peru is a noisy place – people here have a festive way of looking at life and often enjoy beeping their horns and playing loud music! We have chosen the quietest areas practical in order for people to get the best sleep possible (although after hiking the Inca Trail trek most people find they have no trouble sleeping!), and earplugs are recommended in this energetic and lively part of the world. In contrast, the jungle lodges in the Amazon are very tranquil and quiet.

We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry once during your trip and the best time will be during our two night stay in Cuzco (during your free day).

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You'll need one piece of luggage plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage can be anything from a backpack, to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase and a good quality trekking daypack 25-30 litres (2000 cubic inches) is required for the days on the trail.

When we go to the Amazon Jungle we only need take along what we need for these nights, so you can leave your extra gear securely in your Cuzco hotel for when you return. Therefore, please bring along a collapsible bag to take your overnight gear away in.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travellers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travellers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travellers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Tell me about the Classic Inca Trail?

This amazing four day trek will take you past ancient Incan ruins, over high Andean passes and through mysterious cloud forest. This trail is the most widely known of all the Inca trails and as a result it’s the most popular, which is why a trekking permit system exists to protect the trail and why everyone who treks the trail must do so with the assistance of a local Peruvian operator (we take care of that for you).

The Classic Inca Trail is 45km (25 miles) in total length and you’ll average around 6 hours or 12km (7 miles) per day. The greatest elevation reached on the trail is 4,200 metres (13,800 feet) at the top of Dead Woman’s Pass. It involves three and a half days of hiking, three nights of camping, three passes and many Incan ruins to walk past and explore. While the many steps on the Inca Trail might be a bit of a challenge, the rewards are well and truly worth it!

How fast do Classic Inca Trail permits sell out?

There are limited numbers of permits available for trekkers and porters on the Classic Inca Trail and permits can sell out many months in advance during busier periods. It’s important to get your passport details to us as soon as possible as we can’t secure your permits without them.

Please make sure the passport details you provide us are 100% accurate. The National Park authorities who police the Inca Trails and Machu Picchu permits can refuse you entry to the trail if the details in their system and on your passport do not match – so please double check the passport name and number you’ve provided. If you find an error please email us immediately so we can do our best to rectify things for you.

If you need to renew your passport please provide us with your ‘old’ info prior to applying for your new one, just in case Inca Trail permits are limited, as we wouldn’t want you to miss out. In this case please remember to bring the ‘old’ passport with you too, to collect your permits in Cuzco and at Machu Picchu.

Tell me about the Lares Trail?

This three day trek through the real Peru will take you over high Andean passes, past secluded lakes, along remote valleys and into local villages. This trail is somewhat less well known than the Classic Inca Trail, but it’s an equally spectacular wilderness experience.

The Lares Inca Trail is 40km (25 miles) in total length and you’ll average around 5 hours or 10km (6 miles) per day. The greatest elevation reached on the Lares Inca Trail is 4,730 metres (15,700 feet) at the top of PumahuancaPass. It involves three days of hiking, two passes, two nights of camping, one night in a hotel and time in numerous quaint villages. You’ll feel like you have Peru to yourself on this trail – it’s a hidden gem that you’ll be very glad that you found!

We often have travelers comment on how strongly they’re touched by the interactions they have with the local communities on the Lares Trail. You’ll see many young children on this hike, so feel free to bring along some small spin tops or other fun gifts to hand out.

What are the accommodations/meals on the trails?

While on your Inca Trail you’ll be camping for two or three nights, depending on your chosen trail. We provide spacious four-person tents for those with twin and double share rooms and those who opt for the single bedroom supplement get a tent of their own. Thermarest brand sleeping mats are provided by us and your porter will carry this. When you arrive into camp you’ll find your tent already pitched, water on the boil and a hot meal being prepared for you. Latrine bathrooms with running water can be found nearby. If you’re up for it you’ll also have the option of a cold shower at some stage too.

You’ll be provided with three delicious hot meals while on your chosen Inca Trail. You’ll also be provided with two litres of boiled water at the beginning of each day, as well as at lunch and dinner for drinking and brushing teeth.

Do you provide porters on the trails?

Included in your trip fare are the services of our group porters who carry your tents, food and cooking equipment.
They also can take up to 8 kilograms (17 pounds) of your personal gear – including your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. The night before you hit the trail, we’ll give you a porter duffel bag to pack 8 kilograms (17 pounds) worth of overnight gear into (e.g. sleeping bag, sleeping mat, toiletries, spare clothes) - scales are provided at your hotel to help you pack.

The porters will whisk your duffel bag away, leaving you to walk at your own pace self-sufficiently with your day gear in your daypack (e.g. passport, water, raincoat, fleece, camera, personal items). Your excess gear is stored securely in Cuzco.

Tell me about the Amazon Jungle?

For three days during your ‘Jaguar’ trip you’ll be visiting the Amazon Jungle near Puerto Maldonado. Once again, we’ll only take what we need for these 3 days, and leave any excess luggage stored securely at your Cuzco hotel for when we return. You’ll take a short flight from Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado before boarding a boat down an Amazonian tributary to a jungle lodge – your home for the next three days.

We stay at a variety of jungle lodges and many are built from a combination of traditional native materials and modern day eco-lodge technology deep in the jungle. The modest facilities are built with wood, palm fronds, wild cane and clay. All rooms are separated by drapes (so they’re not sound proof) and each bedroom has beds, mosquito nets, bedside tables, hammocks or lounge chairs and a private cold-water bathroom. A generator is turned on once a day to recharge batteries for guests or lodge facilities. Light is provided by numerous kerosene lamps and candles. Common areas are open and spacey and offer ample area for resting and socialising, they include a dining room and bar, a reception lounge with souvenir shop, and an interpretation centre.

The climate here is very different to that of the Andes – hot and humid is a pretty accurate description! Some long sleeved/ legged clothes are a good idea for sun and bug protection, though we don’t recommend doing any washing while you’re here - it probably won’t dry. The amounts on the mini gear list below are guide for what to pack from April to October. If you’re travelling from November to March, you might like to bring a little extra clothing also as things can get a little more wet and muddy! Hiking boots are also better than shoes at this time of year. Some jungle lodges provide rubber boots in the wet season, but others don’t, so it’s better to come prepared!

Is tipping expected in Peru?

Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per trip leader and S/100 (US$30) to be shared amongst your trekking crew on the Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure (Classic Inca, Lares Inca guide and porters). During your Active Adventures trip, your trip leader will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you. For other restaurants or services during your time in Peru, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.

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Our Local Guides

Why Travel With Us

benefit group size

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience with the perspective of an insider.

benefit guides

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, are experts in motivation, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. Every detail is handled; all you need to do is show up!

benefit safety

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted vendors and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides and our seasoned operations team at headquarters.

benefit family

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries and sustained relationships for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

benefit wow

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience. If we’ve done our job, they’ll have you saying “wow!”

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Central & South America

Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure