Matthew Einarson’s Cusco Adventure

From the small harbor town of Paracas, you’ll board a speedboat and cruise across the bay toward this protected marine sanctuary. Along the way, you’ll pass the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph carved into a sand dune, a landmark whose origins remain unknown and add a touch of intrigue to the trip.

As you approach the Ballestas Islands, the true spectacle begins. These rocky outcrops teem with wildlife—sea lions basking in the sun, Humboldt penguins waddling along the shores, and large colonies of seabirds soaring above or perched on cliff edges. The boat will navigate around the islands for close-up views, offering endless photo opportunities and the chance to witness Peru’s coastal biodiversity in its natural setting. After the tour, return to shore with fresh sea air in your lungs and the sounds of the ocean still echoing in your ears.

Upon arrival at Cusco’s airport, you’ll be greeted and begin your journey down into the Sacred Valley. As you leave the city behind, the landscape gradually transforms—steep mountain peaks give way to rolling valleys, terraced hillsides, and traditional Andean villages. Along the way, there are countless scenic moments as the route descends toward the lower altitude and tranquility of the valley floor.

This transfer not only serves as your connection into the Sacred Valley but also offers a gentle and scenic introduction to the Andes. Whether you choose to rest or take in the views from the window, the drive sets a peaceful tone for the next leg of your adventure.

Our day begins with a journey through the Sacred Valley, once the heart of the Incan Empire. This fertile region has served as an important agricultural center for thousands of years, with its ruins stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo before reaching Chinchero.

Our first stop is Pisac, an important Inca site known for its extensive agricultural terraces and strategic location as the southern gateway to the valley. After exploring the ruins, we’ll visit the town’s artisan market before continuing to Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress that guarded the northern entrance of the valley. As we climb its terraces and walk through its narrow streets, we’ll gain insight into its military, religious, and agricultural significance.

Finally, we head to Chinchero, a traditional Andean village home to the Royal Hacienda Ruins of Tupac Inca Yupanqui. Here, we’ll see a well-preserved Inca wall in the main square and visit the colonial church built atop Inca foundations. After taking in the beauty and history of Chinchero, we return to Cusco.

Set out for a scenic day exploring the stunning landscapes and ancient ingenuity of the Sacred Valley. You’ll visit the spectacular salt pans of Maras, where thousands of gleaming salt pools have been harvested since Inca times, and continue on to the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, thought to be an ancient bio-lab for crop experimentation. These sites offer a unique glimpse into the Inca’s deep understanding of nature and resource management, all set against sweeping views of the Andes.

After time spent immersed in this highland heritage, you’ll head toward the valley’s train station for the next phase of your journey. As the day winds down, you’ll board a train bound for Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. This relaxing ride offers one last look at the Sacred Valley’s beauty before arriving in the lush, subtropical landscape that surrounds the famous citadel.

Join us for a full-day journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu and explore two unique circuits that offer contrasting yet complementary views of this iconic site. After a picturesque train ride through the Sacred Valley and a short bus ascent, you’ll experience both Circuit 1 and Circuit 3 during your visit. Circuit 1, the panoramic route, provides sweeping views from the upper terraces, perfect for capturing classic photos and appreciating the layout and scale of the citadel from above.

Circuit 3 takes you deeper into the townscape of Machu Picchu, guiding you through the lower agricultural areas, storage spaces, and everyday structures that supported Inca life. With 2 to 3 hours dedicated to each circuit, you’ll enjoy a well-rounded exploration that highlights both the majesty and functionality of this ancient city. After a day filled with awe and discovery, return to Aguas Calientes and relax before your evening train back to Cusco.