Manu and Inca Trail – 9 Days of Nature and History

Welcome to the ancient capital of the Inca Empire! Upon arrival in Cusco, a private transfer will take you to your boutique hotel in the heart of the historic center. Take some time to rest and acclimatize before your private afternoon city tour. As you stroll through cobblestone streets, admire the seamless stonework of Koricancha Temple, the grandeur of the Cathedral, and the vibrant San Pedro Market. The tour continues to the imposing Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, where panoramic views of Cusco await. The city's colonial charm and Inca mystique will captivate your senses from the start. Enjoy a welcome dinner with Andean flavors and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Today, your expedition into the wild begins. Depart Cusco early in a private vehicle and drive through cloud forests and remote Andean villages as you descend toward the Amazon basin. Along the way, observe dramatic changes in scenery—from high-altitude plains to lush green forests. Stop at scenic lookouts and local communities for insight into rural life in the Andes. Upon reaching the Manu Cultural Zone, settle into your eco-lodge surrounded by jungle sounds and tropical flora. As evening falls, enjoy your first night in the rainforest, with a twilight walk or optional night safari to witness nocturnal creatures.

Awaken to the symphony of birds, monkeys, and insects as the Amazon greets you with its full intensity. Today is dedicated to exploring Manu's incredible biodiversity with expert naturalist guides. Venture into trails rich with wildlife—look out for capuchin monkeys, colorful toucans, and the elusive jaguar tracks. Visit oxbow lakes by canoe, where you may spot giant river otters and caimans. After a jungle-style lunch, visit observation towers for a bird’s-eye view of the canopy. This immersive day in the rainforest is a vivid reminder of nature’s raw power and fragile beauty. Return to the lodge for a peaceful evening under a blanket of stars.

A second day in the Amazon offers even deeper immersion. Begin with a morning hike into a different ecosystem, learning about medicinal plants, tribal traditions, and the delicate balance of the rainforest. In the afternoon, head to a clay lick where hundreds of parrots and macaws gather, filling the air with color and sound. You might also visit a nearby community to understand the sustainable ways locals live in harmony with nature. The jungle continues to enchant with its surprises and secrets. End the day in the serenity of your lodge, listening to the distant sounds of the wild.

After a final jungle breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the Amazon. Travel back to Cusco through the spectacular cloud forest route, stopping for scenic views and wildlife sightings. Once in Cusco, enjoy the comforts of your luxury hotel and a free evening to unwind. Whether you choose to dine at a gourmet restaurant or relax with a traditional massage, this evening is yours to recover and reflect on your Amazonian experience. Tomorrow, the journey continues to the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Embark on a full-day adventure into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit the impressive terraces of Pisac and browse its colorful artisan market. Continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns, where narrow streets and ancient stone structures still whisper tales of the past. Enjoy a gourmet picnic or lunch at a colonial hacienda, then explore the Maras salt pans and the circular terraces of Moray—an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and golden fields, the valley’s serene beauty is unforgettable. Spend the night in a peaceful retreat nestled among the mountains.

Today, begin your two-day Inca Trail hike—an unforgettable journey on ancient paths. From KM 104, cross the Urubamba River and ascend through lush cloud forest. Along the way, visit the beautifully preserved Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, a terraced sanctuary clinging to the mountain. Continue hiking with your expert guide until you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the iconic entrance to Machu Picchu. As the citadel comes into view, bask in the awe of arriving like the Incas once did. Descend to Aguas Calientes for a restful evening in a charming hotel and a well-earned dinner.

Rise early for the sunrise at Machu Picchu. Explore this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site on a guided tour that reveals its history, spiritual significance, and architectural genius. Wander through temples, plazas, and terraces as your guide brings the ancient city to life. After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private transfer will return you to Cusco for your final night. Celebrate your incredible journey with a farewell dinner and toast to the memories forged between jungle and mountains.

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your return flight home. Take with you not only stunning photographs but a deeper connection to Peru’s landscapes, wildlife, and ancient civilizations. Your exclusive journey with Kada Travel comes to a close, but the magic of Manu and Machu Picchu will stay with you forever.