Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel at 08:30 AM as we set off on foot to discover the hidden treasures of Cusco. We’ll make our way to the heart of the city, Plaza de Armas, before starting our walk to the picturesque San Blas neighborhood—a vibrant area known for its artisanal charm. This historic district is a great place to soak in the local culture and marvel at the beautiful cobblestone streets and colonial houses, many of which carry names rooted in Quechua, the ancient language of the Incas.
As we ascend the hill, enjoy panoramic views of Cusco, spotting important squares, churches, and other significant landmarks along the way. We’ll walk through a serene stretch of Eucalyptus trees, where you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the majestic Qhaphan Ñan (the Inca Trail) leading us to the first archaeological site—C’usilluchayoc, also known as the Temple of the Monkeys. Here, marvel at the carved Incan stones, altars, and depictions of monkeys, along with a fascinating astronomical water mirror.
Just a short walk away, we’ll reach the Temple of the Moon, a sacred site still visited by Andean priests who perform ancient rituals, especially in August, the month dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth). This mystical site, with its natural rock carvings, offers a deep connection to the land and the cosmos.
After a bit of exploration, we’ll take a moment to pause and appreciate the stunning landscapes near a creek, where you can enjoy a snack while soaking in the serenity of this sacred place. From here, we’ll continue our walk for about 40 minutes towards Inkilltambo. This site, surrounded by lush agricultural terraces, was once an important religious center for the Incas, linking astronomy and agriculture. Wander through narrow caves, temples, and cracks carved into the earth, each holding a story of Incan wisdom.
Next, we’ll head towards our final destination of the trek, Machu Choquequirao, where we’ll spend about 10 minutes ascending to the Ushnu (sacred platform) of this sacred site. From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Cusco, perfect for a photo op. Machu Choquequirao is an Inca site with unique circular terraces, reminiscent of a pyramid, where our guide will share fascinating insights into this spiritual altar and the valley below.
After exploring, we’ll begin our descent, passing colonial tile ovens once used by the Spanish to make tiles. We’ll cross a bridge and enjoy a gradual ascent back to the city, bringing our adventure to a close as we return to Cusco.
