10 Day Travel Package in Peru
Trips to Machu Picchu
About this trip
The Andes to Amazon Grand Circle: From Incan Stones to Primal Jungle
Experience the full spectrum of Peru in one extraordinary 10-day journey. Begin in the heart of the Incan Empire with a cultural immersion through Cusco’s historic streets. Traverse the "Super" Sacred Valley to witness the genius of Incan engineering before spending an unforgettable morning at Machu Picchu and a full day Rainbow Mountain. Finally, trade the mountains for the rainforest as you venture deep into the Manu Reserved Zone—the most biodiverse place on Earth. From ancient ruins to spotting jaguars and giant river otters, this is the ultimate Peruvian expedition.
What’s included
Super Vally and Machu Picchu
Briefing
Pre-departure briefing
Bus transportation
Touristic bus for the tour the Sacred Valley in Group Service
Tour Guide
Bilingual guide for Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in Group Service
Meals
Lunch in Sacred Valley
Train Tickets
Round trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (can be upgraded to Vistadome train)
Hotel
1 night in Hostel in Aguas Calientes, 2-3 Star Hotel
Meals
1 breakfast
Machu Picchu Bus
Round way Bus Ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
Entrance to Machu Picchu (we normally include the circuit 2 but if isnt available by the time you book your tour you might need to book an additional circuit in order to maximize your experience, the additional ticket is not included.)
Rainbow Mountain
Tour Bus
Touristic bus for the tour
Tour Guide
Bilingual Tour Guide
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Aid kit
First Aid kit and Oxygen bottle
Entrance Ticket
Entrance ticket to the Rainbow Mountain
Manu Reserved Zone
Tour guide
English speaking professional guide (2 guides for groups of over 10 people)
Transportation
Transportation (bus and boat)
Chef
Chef and cooking equipment
Meals
Meals (05B, 06L, 05D + daily morning snack. Vegetarian/vegan are available at no extra cost
Accommodations
All Nights in Lodge, a night in a blind might be included in the tour
Mineral Water
only during the jungle tour
Rain Poncho
for Jungle tour only
Rubber Boots
Rubber boots starting from second day
Entrance Fee
Entrance fee to Manu National Park
First-aid kit
First-aid kit
What’s not included
Breakfast
1st Breakfast on the Sacred Valley Tour and Manu Park
Lunch
in Machu Picchu
Dinner
In Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and last day Dinner in Manu Park
Mineral Water
Not included in the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu. Also not included on the 1st day Manu Park Tour
Entrance Ticket
Sacred Valley entrance ticket
Hotel in Cusco
Hotels in Cusco are not included (we can add hotels with an addional fee of $150 per night)
Hot Springs
Visit to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes: a relaxing way to end-up the trek while you’re awaiting the return train to Cusco, only 10 minutes from the village center, entrance fee is s/15.00 (Peruvian Soles). Towels can be hired in Aguas Calientes
Huaynapicchu entrance fee
if you would like to climb this mountain a new entrance fee applies (US$ 80)
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance that covers tour cancellation, lost, damage, health.
$1,370
Itinerary
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Destination: Cusco, Machu Picchui, The Rainbow Mountain and Manu National Park (Reserved Zone and Cultural Zone)
Start/Finish: Cusco / Cusco
Activity Level: Moderate (Hiking in the andes, Jungle hiking, boat travel)
Best For: Wildlife photographers, nature lovers, birdwatchers.
Day 1: Cusco - Walking Tour: Step Back in Time: A Walking Journey Through the Heart of the Incas
Discover the magic of Cusco, where ancient Incan foundations meet grand Spanish colonial architecture.This immersive walking tour takes you from the bustling Plaza de Armas to the legendary Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun). Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the San Blas artisan quarter, marvel at the precision of the Twelve-Angle Stone, and soak in panoramic views of the city's red-tiled rooftops. Along the way, experience the vibrant colors and flavors of the San Pedro Market, where local life truly comes alive.
Day 2: Cusco - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu: The Super Sacred Valley (The "VIP" Route)
Pick-up: Approx. 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
This is a fast-paced but rewarding day covering the most iconic landscapes and ruins in the valley.
- Chinchero: Known as the "Birthplace of the Rainbow." You’ll visit the colonial church built over Incan foundations and witness a traditional Andean textile demonstration where locals use natural plants and minerals to dye alpaca wool.
- Moray: Explore the mysterious circular agricultural terraces. These deep, amphitheater-like pits were used by the Incas as an experimental laboratory to grow crops at different microclimates.
- Maras Salt Mines: Marvel at over 3,000 ancient salt evaporation ponds carved into the mountainside. These are still hand-harvested by local families today.
- Urubamba (Lunch): A stop for a buffet lunch (usually included in most tours) featuring fresh Andean trout, quinoa, and local fruits.
- Ollantaytambo: Explore the "Living Inca Town." You’ll climb the massive fortress terraces where the Incas fought one of their last battles against the Spanish.
- Train to Aguas Calientes: In the late afternoon or evening, you will board the train from Ollantaytambo. The 1.5-hour journey follows the Urubamba River into the lush high jungle.
- Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town).
Day 3: Machu Picchu. - Cusco: The Lost City of the Incas (Machu Picchu)
Start: Early morning (usually between 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM)
- The Ascent: Take the 25-minute shuttle bus from town up the winding road to the Machu Picchu entrance.
- Guided Tour: A 2.5-hour professional guided tour of the citadel. You’ll visit the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, the Intihuatana (sun dial), and the Sacred Rock while learning about the engineering genius of the Incas.
- Free Exploration: Depending on your ticket circuit, you may have time for photos at the famous "Guard House" viewpoint.
- Return to Cusco: You’ll take the bus back down to town, have lunch, and then board the return train to Ollantaytambo. A private van or bus will meet you at the station to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco (arriving around 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM).
Day 4: Cusco - Rainbow Mountain - Cusco
A day trip to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) is one of the most visually stunning and physically demanding experiences in Peru. Because of the extreme altitude, this tour requires an early start to beat the crowds and the afternoon weather.
Tour Quick Facts
Max Altitude: 5,200 m (17,060 ft)
Difficulty: Challenging (due to altitude, not technicality)
Total Hiking Time: 3–4 hours (round trip)
Total Duration: 12–14 hours (from Cusco)
Detailed Itinerary
- 03:30 AM – 04:30 AM: Pickup & Departure
Most tours pick you up directly from your hotel or a central meeting point. You’ll head south from Cusco in a tourist van for about 3 hours. Tip: Bring a small pillow and a blanket; most people sleep during this drive. - 07:00 AM: Breakfast in Cusipata/Pitumarca
Stop in a small Andean village for a local breakfast (usually eggs, toast, fruit, and coca tea). This is your last chance for a proper restroom before the trailhead. - 08:30 AM: Arrival at the Trailhead (Phuluwasipata)
Your guide will give a safety briefing and provide walking sticks if needed. You will start the hike at approximately 4,600m (15,090 ft). - Optional: If the altitude feels too difficult, you can rent a horse from the local community here (approx. 60–90 soles / 15-25 USD). Note that horses cannot do the final 10-minute steep climb to the very top.
- 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM: The Ascent
The trail is a steady, gradual incline. You will pass through a high-altitude valley filled with hundreds of alpacas and llamas, with the snow-capped Ausangate Mountain (the tallest in the region) looming in the distance. - 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: The Summit of Vinicunca
Reach the iconic viewpoint! You’ll have about 30–45 minutes to take photos of the vibrant mineral stripes and enjoy the 360-degree Andean views. - Extension (Optional): Many tours offer a 20-minute detour to the Red Valley. It looks like the surface of Mars and is often less crowded than the Rainbow Mountain itself.
- 12:00 PM – 01:30 PM: The Descent
Walking down is much faster but can be hard on the knees. You’ll head back to the parking area where the van is waiting. - 02:00 PM: Buffet Lunch
A well-deserved Andean buffet lunch back in the village. This usually includes soup, quinoa, pasta, chicken, and vegetables. - 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM: Return to Cusco
Arrive back in Cusco. Most tours drop you off at Plaza Regocijo (one block from the main square).
Day 5: Cusco - Pona Lodge ( 6 day Manu Reserved Zone tour)
Your incredible Cusco to Manu tour begins as we depart from the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, climbing over the spectacular Andes mountain range. As we descend into the eastern slopes, the scenery transforms dramatically, giving way to the lush, vibrant ecosystems of the Cloud Forest. Here, the air becomes rich with moisture, and the trees are draped in orchids, bromeliads, and mosses, creating an ethereal landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for our first incredible wildlife encounters: the vibrant Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Peru's national bird) performing its elaborate mating dance, playful Woolly Monkeys, and a myriad of colorful bird species. We'll make strategic stops at scenic viewpoints, including the charming town of Paucartambo, before reaching our comfortable lodge nestled deep within this biodiverse paradise. Enjoy a delicious dinner amidst the sounds of the jungle, preparing for the wonders ahead on your jungle trip in Peru. (L+D).
Highlights of the Day:
- Walk along the Cloud Forest of Manu Park
- Visit the Peruvian National Bird LEK (Andean Cock-of-the-Rock)
- Bird Watching along the Cloud Forest, where you'll see several species of colorful Amazon birds including Tanagers, toucans, barbets, hummingbirds, two species of quetzals, trogons, motmots, woodpeckers, and hawks.
- Tanager garden optional visit, an excellent spot to photograph colorful birds of Peru (not included in the standard Cusco to Manu tour package).
Day 6: Pona Lodge - Yanayacu Lodge
This morning, as part of your comprehensive jungle tours in Peru, we will reach the clear waters of the Alto Madre de Dios River. After leaving our lodge at 6:30 am, we'll head towards the Port of Atalaya. Before reaching Atalaya Port, we will visit a Hummingbird Gardenwhere we will see several species of hummingbirds, including tanagers, barbets, king vultures, titi monkeys, and more. From Atalaya, we will continue our journey by boat towards a Hot Spring, spending about an hour relaxing before continuing to our next lodge. (B+L+D).
Highlights of the Day:
- Hummingbird Garden Visit: A highlight of many jungle trips in Peru, where several species of hummingbird, tanagers, barbets, monkeys, and the majestic king vulture are observed.
- Visit a Hot Spring: Around noon, we will stop at a natural hot spring for about an hour of relaxing bathing on your Manu adventure.
Day 7: yanayacu Lodge - Reserved Zone of Manu Park - Casa Matsiguenka Lodge
Kick off your Manu Park tour at a spectacular Parrot Clay Lick, witnessing a dazzling array of macaws and parrots. Our journey continues into the Reserved Zone via the Manu River, offering chances to see diverse birdlife, caimans, and even jaguars on its sun-drenched beaches. Post-lunch, settle into our Lodge near Cocha Salvador. Spend your afternoon exploring lush rainforest trails, observing wildlife from a 20-meter canopy tower, and seeking out Giant Otters. As night falls, an optional guided walk reveals the jungle's nocturnal inhabitants, including the unforgettable sounds of the rainforest, before a comfortable stay at Casa Matsiguenka lodge. (B+L+D).
Highlights of the Day:
- Sail along Manu River: A prime opportunity during your Cusco to Manu tour to see several species of animals including black caimans, white caimans, turtles, monkeys, capybaras, and deer.
- Jaguar Searching: At Manu River, we will have our best chances to see Jaguars in Peru on the way up as well as on the way down.
- Cocha Otorongo Visit: This oxbow lake offers your first chance to see giant otters and large black caimans, a true highlight of jungle tours in Peru.
Day 8: Casa Matsiguenka Lodge
We will start our activity very early in the morning in the Salvador oxbow lake, utilizing a floating platform called a catamaran. This morning, on your Cusco to Manu tour, we will be able to see an infinity of species of birds and mammals: herons, cormorants, eagles, hawks, squirrel monkeys, capuchin monkeys, giant otters, and giant river otters. The Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) can reach up to 6 feet or 1.82 cm in length and weigh up to 70 pounds or 31 kilograms. They consume between 9 to 11 lbs (4-5 kilos) of fish per day. This is one of the rare animals on earth which are common in Manu. We will also look for some of the 15 species of monkeys which inhabit this place, making this a truly remarkable jungle trip in Peru. After visiting Salvador Oxbow lake, we will head back to Casa Matsiguenka Lodge and from there we will walk to the Macaw Clay Lick. Scarlet macaws as well as red and green macaws are seen at this clay lick. Activity at the clay lick begins around 5:30 am as medium-sized parrots arrive with the sunrise, pair by pair, noisy, and land in the treetops above the clay lick. Several screechbirds climb the branches preparing for their descent to the riverbank. Finally, cascades of green, blue, and red parrots circle down to the clay wall. Around 7:00 or 7:30 in the morning, large macaws begin to arrive. Around 10:00 a.m., the macaws begin to descend. This colorful and noisy scene continues for 20 to 40 minutes while the birds eat their ration of clay or until danger arrives in the form of a hawk, eagle, or ocelot. This is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world, a must-see on any jungle tour in Peru. After lunch at our lodge, we will explore one of the trails through the jungle and look at the complex ecosystem that surrounds us. Our ecologist guide will explain how plants and insects interact with the forest. We will be on the lookout for some of the smaller inhabitants of the jungle, such as the emperor pichico or the spotted-backed tamarin. On the way, it is also possible to come across a group of peccaries, a species of wild boar found here. Overnight at Casa Matsiguenka Lodge (B+L+D).
Highlights of the Day:
- Cocha Salvador Visit: Cocha Salvador is the largest Oxbow lake in Manu National Park. At this oxbow lake, part of your exclusive Cusco to Manu tour, we have a chance to see giant otters, Black Caimans, and several species of birds and monkeys.
- Macaw Clay Lick Visit: Near our lodge, we have a small macaw clay lick where two species of large macaws are observed, including scarlet as well as red and green macaws, a vibrant part of your jungle trip in Peru.
- Night Walk: During our night walks, we can see several species of nocturnal creatures including insects, amphibians, reptiles, night monkeys, and owls.
Day 9: Casa Matsiguenka Lodge - Yanayacu Lodge - Tapir Clay Lick
This day, another exciting chapter of your jungle tours in Peru, we will visit an oxbow lake which we will reach by walking through the forest. Cocha Otorongo - "Jaguar Lake" – where we will have the opportunity to see more of the wildlife of Manu. We may encounter groups of monkeys, especially groups of common woolly monkeys. We will pay special attention to the plant life of the place, which will give us signals, noises of falling fruits and leaves which will indicate the presence of an animal or bird. After a relaxing lunch, we will navigate Manu River downstream and then upstream Alto Madre de Dios until we reach the Tapir Clay Lick area. From the river, we will head towards a blind in the middle of the jungle where we will spend the night. The reason for going to this blind is for the unique chance to see tapirs at night, a rare experience on any Cusco to Manu tour. (B+L+D).
Highlights of the Day:
- Sail Along Manu River: On the way, we will have our second chance to search for caimans, monkeys, turtles, capybaras, deer, and green anacondas, enhancing your jungle trip in Peru.
- Jaguar Search: This morning, we will search for jaguars along the Manu River; the best chance to seejaguar sightings is between July to October.
- Tapir Clay Lick: In the evening, we will visit a mammal clay lick where tapirs are often seen.
- Spend a Night in the middle of the Jungle: To see the tapirs, we will spend a night in a camouflage house, an immersive part of your jungle tour in Peru.
Day 10: Tapir Clay Lick - Cusco
This day, we will travel back to the city of Cusco, arriving around 3:00 in the afternoon, concluding your memorable Cusco to Manu tour. END OF OUR SERVICES (B+L).
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Trips to Machu Picchu
Trips to Machu Picchu by Manu Explorers Peru specializes in authentic tours to one of the world’s wonders. Our offerings include the Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, and Choquequirao treks, alongside the high-adventure Inca Jungle Trek and scenic train tours to Machu Picchu. Looking for more adventure? We also provide expert-guided jungle expeditions to the Manu National Park Reserved Zone.
