MACHU PICCHU & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
PERU
Overview
Activity:
Hiking, Culinary, Historical
Length:
7 Days/6 Nights
Accommodations:
Luxury Villa
Guide Type:
Guided
Activity Level:
Moderate
Age Minimum:
18 years
Weather:
Avg. 73° F (low) / 45° F (high), rain some days
Elevation:
11,000-9,000 ft
Do you hate being jammed into a group of tourists? Or feeling like an outsider when you’re trying to experience culture and community?
Imagine jumping into a group of like-minded new found friends to enjoy a travel experience that feels intimate, personalized, and yet gives you enough space to breathe and move.
"Think of us as the Liger of retreats, the crossbreed, the best of both worlds."
Every detail in our retreat focuses on our commitment to the local community, to experiencing culture, with the spirit of adventure. Rest well throughout your stay in a plush cozy bed where you only need to wander into the kitchen to be greeted with a smile and warm breakfast made by Marta. Our beautiful villa provides ample space for secluded reading and central gathering spaces for a family feel.
Step off of the beaten path to genuinely connect with local villagers, and take in the beautiful scenery not captured on all of the tourist postcards. Our immersive style gets you as close to local living without having to move in with them. Which means at the end of the day you will enjoy a hot shower with water pressure, not commonly experienced in the region.
Tucked into a quiet spot of town yet close enough to the markets you will have space to wander around secluded gardens and the option of venturing into town. Your guides Heidi and Colin have an intimate knowledge of the region and can guide you every step of the way. Whether you prefer their company exploring the town, or grabbing a map and venturing on your own, the option is yours.
We believe in supporting the locals, so we work directly with our guides in Peru to ensure they are supported and you are provided an authentic experience. We understand the dark side of tourism and do our best to do what we find to be the most sustainable. When we set out into the villages we do so to stand in solidarity with them and provide direct financial support, rather than exploit their culture, heritage, and craft. We are constantly asking questions on how we can work together to answer their needs while creating unforgettable experiences.
This trip is for you if you enjoy clean beds and hot showers, love eating delicious fresh food, like exploring culture and history, are looking for community, and want to hit fast forward by signing up for a trip where you don’t have to do the research on the region, entrance fees, train tickets, or plan your dining. All you need to do is show up and we will take care of the rest.
Activities, are always optional and tailored to the group. No experience required for our one day of rock climbing adventure (see itinerary). Receive support from the group and trained guides throughout your stay.
Yoga is offered in the morning daily if you wish to bring a mat along to partake in this experience.
Highlights
Settle in on your last night for a 5 course wine pairing dinner at the villa
Team building and goup support while climbing
Hike on the trails of the Incas, we have trail plans and trail guides that will take you off the beaten path
Face the wall with friends, you will be fully supported in our day of rock climbing
Step back in time and experience archaeological sites that are still in use today
Connect with the local community and learn what life is like in the mountains by visiting traditional villages in the present day
Culinary delights are endless in this region, leaving you with satiated on more than one level
You don't have to worry about what to eat, all meals are included
Explore the culture first hand by spending time with people who live it
Itinerary
This itinerary is subject to change or shuffling of the daily schedule due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Arrival
Day 1: Sunday
July 14
Greetings...
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of the trip which will minimize the risk of travel-related delays and to being to acclimatize.
If you choose to arrive early we are happy to arrange your transportation from the airport to your hotel, assist with hotel recommendations, or set up an extra tour. To have us handle all of the details of your additional days. Please, contact us.
We will contact you before departure to arrange your pick up details. Group transportation is provided from Cusco to the Villa in Urubamba. The van will leave from Cusco at 2pm for the 1.5hr drive to the villa. We will arrange to pick you up from the airport, hotel, or the main square.
Upon arrival you will be warmly greeted by Heidi and welcomed to your home for the week. Grab a snack or a siesta. We will gather for dinner and meet your travel friends for the fun week ahead.
Ollantaytambo
Day 2: Monday
July 15
Rise and shine for a refreshing day in the Andes.
Greet the morning with a lovely breakfast in the kitchen, before preparing for a full day exploring the ancient city of Ollantaytambo. Known as the best surviving example of Inca city planning, with quaint cobblestone streets and homes that have been inhabited since the 13th century.
We will explore the ruins and present day shrine of Ollantaytambo situated in the heart of the village, weave our way through the wandering streets, and climb up to the Pinkuylluna grainery storehouses to see Ollantaytambo from a different perspective. While here we will take time to stretch, breathe, and take photos.
Just as we are starting to work up an appetite we will make our way back to the villa to enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal called the Pachamanca.
Urubamba has been an agricultural area since pre-Inca times and farming continues to be the main source of income for a large majority of the area’s population. Nestled within the mountains, the villa provides the perfect opportunity to learn about traditional and contemporary farming, as well as, primitive cooking techniques
Rock Climbing
Day 3: Tuesday
July 16
Wake up fully refreshed for a day of exploration and adventure.
We will head out into the Sacred Valley to meet our climbing guides and spend the day exploring new routes. You will be fully supported by trained guides and Outer Edge Travel Guides.
*Please note, you do not need rock climbing experience to join this trip or try your hand at rock climbing with us. See inclusions for details regarding climbing gear.
Day Hike from Chinchero to the ruins of Huchuy Qosqo (Huchuy Cusco- little Cusco)
Day 4: Thursday
July17
An early rise will set the tone for a beautiful and inspiring day in remote villages on Inca trails.
We will take a 30 minute ride to arrive in the village of Chinchero. A thriving village known for its vibrant markets and colorful weavings. We will meet our local guide who be our expressway to the community, culture, and the land. With his trusted leadership we will make our way to the trailhead in the nearby village of Tauca to start the 7-8 hiking journey across majestic landscapes. Take in stunning views of Mount Veronica and the Vilcabamba Range.
Dropping from the high pass arriving into the ancient village, now historical site, of Huchuy Qosqo (little Cusco). A step back in time to awe inspiring site will give us pause to enjoy panoramic vistas of the Sacred Valley situated below.
Our switchback descent into the valley below will drop us into the town of Lamay, where we will meet our driver and journey back to the villa.
Machu Picchu Day Trip
Day 5: Friday
July 18
With the sun brimming over the mountains we will have an early start as we take the first train to Aguas Calientes. A short ride to the train station and we will begin our epic journey.
Enjoy stunning views as we wind through the mountains aboard the luxurious Inca Rail train. During our journey sip on coffee or another refreshing beverage while you snack on a complimentary treat.
Once we arrive in the gateway village to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, we will board a tour bus to make our way through the switchbacks up to the entrance to Machu Picchu. As a group our guide with take us through the rich history of this historical landmark and one of the major wonders of the world. After which you will have the opportunity to explore on your own: walking to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge*.
We will all gather together at a specified time to catch the bus back down the mountain and travel by train to the valley of Ollantaytambo. Our day will conclude was we gather together in the living room of the villa.
*If you are interested on tagging on the beautiful Huayna Picchu or Mountain Machu Picchu experience at an extra cost please let us know as soon as possible. These offerings must be booked at the same time we book your Machu Picchu ticket and typically fill up months in advance as space is limited, so the earlier the better.
Perolniyoq Waterfall/Ruins Day Hike & 5-course wine pairing dinner
Day 6: Saturday
July 19
Today we will rise with the sun for a full morning of nature therapy.
After a short drive to the trailhead we will begin to ascend as you are through a meditative hiking experience. Heidi will guide you through mindfulness techniques that will allow you to connect more deeply to your experience on and off the trail.
When we reach the ruins above the tree line we will have an opportunity to explore, snack, and rest.
As we descend we will bask in the beauty of the high flowing waterfall. Returning back into the valley we will return to the van and make our way back to the villa. Take the afternoon to wind down, lounge in a chair in the gardens, retire to your room for an afternoon siesta, or explore the village of Urubamba.
Departure
Day 7: Sunday
July 20
You will say farewell to your guides at 10:00 AM at the Villa in Urubamba. You will take the 1.5 hr ride back to Cusco to the airport or to your next hotel to continue exploring Peru.
Venue & Pricing
Shared Triple: Twin Bed
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: Twin
Bathroom: Ensuite Bathroom with toilet and shower
Accommodates: up to 3 ppl
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$2,400 pp Single
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
Shared Triple: Double Bed
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: Double
Bathroom: Ensuite Bathroom with toilet and shower
Accommodates: up to 3 ppl
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$2,500 pp Single
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
Large Bedroom: Shared or Private
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: 1 double, 1 sleep sofa/futon
Bathroom: 2 External Bathrooms, 1 with a toilet and 1 with jacuzzi
Accommodates: up to 2 ppl
*This bedroom includes an external balcony overlooking the mountains
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$3,100 pp Single
$2,700 pp Double
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
Master Bedroom: Shared or Private
Set in the middle of the mystical Andes and very close to the archaeological wonders of the Incas, surrounded by an awe-inspiring landscape and an incredibly tranquil environment
Located inside a luxury complex, a 1 acre property full of flower gardens. Enjoy the comfort of an exclusive hotel and the independence and freedom of your own house.
Enjoy nightly fires in the fire place or unwind in the three person hot tub with unforgettable vistas. In the heart of the Scared Valley: At a lower altitude than Cusco (2850 m.a.s.l. – 9350 f.a.s.l.), allows for a much better altitude adaptation.
Bed Type: 2 double, or joined for 1 queen
Bathroom: Ensuite Bathroom with toilet and shower
Accommodates: up to 2 ppl
*This bedroom includes an internal balcony overlooking the living room
**Bookings are per person, if you are traveling with someone, please indicate this on booking form. And complete the booking process for each of you.
$3,200 pp Single
$2,800 pp Double
5% of Each Purchase Goes Into the Betty Jean Scholarship Fund
What's Included
Food Experience: 5 course Wine Pairing Dinner
Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu
Snacks- if you have specific snack preferences you are encouraged to bring those items
Private Transportation throughout the trip
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
Train Ticket to and from Machu Picchu
Drinking water
Transportation to and from the villa
Licensed Local Peruvian Guide fluent in English and Spanish
Outer Edge Travel Guide
Accommodations- 6 nights
Entry Fees into historical sites listed in itinerary
All Meals
Exclusions
Travelers Insurance
Extras and gratuities
Optional climb to Huayna Picchu, Moonngate, or Machu Picchu Mountain at Machu Picchu
Personal hiking gear including backpacks, trekking poles
Vaccines or Health Insurance
Flights to and from Peru
MEET YOUR GUIDE
Heidi
Heidi is an experienced international traveler having been to 5 continents and explored 7 different countries. She seeks adventures off of the beaten path and craves intimate cultural experiences.
On her way to Patagonia with a stop over in Peru, she ended up staying for 2 months making her way into the Andes, the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, and deep into remote parts of the Amazon only accessible by boat or plane.
Heidi has been teaching yoga for over 8 years. She focuses on making yoga practical, approachable, and pertinent. The heart of her practice is living yoga and using time on the mat for deep insights and investigation into the mind and body.
She has a passion for the outdoors and is certified in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, as well as a liscenced trail guide. Heidi combines mindfulness practices, and ancient techniques to reconnect with nature in the modern world.
MEET YOUR GUIDE
Jennifer
Jennifer is a native to the Peruvian Andes. She lives in Ollantaytambo with her family and takes great pride in what the region has to offer.
Pursuing her dreams of sharing her culture with others while bettering her family she made the commitment to become a guide. One of the ways Jennifer amazes us is the fact that she learned English and became fluent within 8 months.
She shares the same ethical commitment to sustainable tourism and we are thrilled to parter with her.
Outer Edge Travel: Peru
Trip Details
How to Get There:
FLY INTO:
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
MEETING LOCATION:
You will be picked up from either the airport or your hotel. Arrival details will be shared prior to arrival to ensure pick up.
You will be driven 1.5 hr to Urubamba to the Villa. Transportation details will be shared after booking.
MEETING TIME:
2PM
Saying Farewell:
FLY OUT OF:
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
DEPARTURE LOCATION:
After departing from the Villa, you will be driven 1.5 hr to Cusco to continue to explore or take your flight home.
DEPARTURE TIME:
11AM
All Details:
ARRIVING:
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of the trip which will minimize the risk of travel-related delays and to being to aclimatize. We recommend that you fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ).
If you choose to arrive early we are happy to arrange your transportation from the airport to your hotel, assist with hotel recommendations, or set up a tour.
To have us handle all of the details of your additional days. Please, contact us.
DEPARTING:
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Villa in Urubamba. You will take the 1.5 hr ride back to Cusco to the airport or to your next hotel to continue exploring Peru.
PLANNING YOUR ADVENTURE
BOOKING:
If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to one of our international trips, a deposit is due at the time of booking.
If booking one of our international trips within the 90 days of the arrival date we require payment in full.
Payment Schedule Information
WHAT IF I HAVE TO CANCEL?
We understand, life happens. If you need to cancel or change a tour, please reach out right away.
Prior to speaking with us, please review our cancelation policy to help answer any questions you might have.
TRAVEL PROTECTION
ONCE BOOKED:
As soon as you are fully booked you will receive a confirmation email with trip details. Two weeks prior to the trip start date we will reach out with a request for your arrival details. One week prior to the trip start date you will receive an email containing any last minute information you need to know prior to arrival.
See our recommended Gear List, to assist with packing.
We require proof of Travelers Insurance including Health Coverage 90 days before the trip start date. We recommend this purchase is made upon booking with us.