Morning: Land in Cusco and transfer to your hotel; take a short rest to begin adjusting to the altitude. A light walk around the historic centre helps stimulate circulation.
Afternoon: Stroll through the Plaza de Armas and visit the nearby San Pedro Market, sampling fresh fruit and local snacks while staying low‑key.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner of quinoa‑based dishes at a nearby restaurant; keep hydration high and avoid alcohol to aid acclimatization.
Find HotelsMorning: Explore the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuamán, walking its massive stone terraces at a comfortable pace.
Afternoon: Visit the golden temple of Qorikancha and its museum, then wander the colonial streets of the city centre.
Evening: Attend a cultural show featuring Andean music and dance, then rest early for the upcoming trek.
Find HotelsMorning: Early bus to Mollepata; begin the ascent toward the Salkantay Pass, crossing high‑altitude grasslands.
Afternoon: Continue the climb, passing glacial streams and enjoying panoramic views of the snow‑capped Salkantay peak.
Evening: Camp at the pass (≈4,630 m); drink warm tea, stretch gently, and rest under the stars.
Find HotelsMorning: Descend through cloud forest, spotting native orchids and birds along the trail.
Afternoon: Reach the small community of Chaquicamata, then trek onward to the verdant valley of Santa Teresa.
Evening: Set up camp near the river, enjoy a simple Andean dinner, and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Find HotelsMorning: Hike through misty jungle to the iconic ruins of Llactapata, offering a stunning viewpoint of Machu Picchu.
Afternoon: Continue down to the hydro‑electric station and board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
Evening: Explore the town’s market, relax in the hot springs, and get an early night for the next day’s visit.
Find HotelsMorning: Early bus up to Machu Picchu; take a guided tour of the citadel, climbing the Sun Gate for breathtaking vistas.
Afternoon: Descend back to Aguas Calientes, board the train to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to a fast bus returning to Cusco.
Evening: Arrive in Cusco, enjoy a celebratory dinner, and reflect on the trek’s highlights.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive to the bustling Pisac Market, browsing vibrant textiles and handmade crafts.
Afternoon: Visit the impressive Inca terraces of Ollantaytambo, climbing to the fortress for sweeping valley views.
Evening: Return to Cusco; optional visit to a local café for a taste of coca‑leaf tea.
Find HotelsMorning: Early departure for a guided hike to Rainbow Mountain, climbing through high‑altitude grasslands.
Afternoon: Reach the colorful summit, capture photos, and begin the descent back to the trailhead.
Evening: Return to Cusco; unwind with a gentle stretch session and a nourishing meal.
Find HotelsMorning: Trek to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, enjoying the serene alpine scenery.
Afternoon: If time permits, visit the circular terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras for a quick cultural glimpse.
Evening: Return to Cusco for a farewell dinner, sharing stories of the adventure.
Find HotelsMorning: Leisurely breakfast, final souvenir shopping around the Plaza de Armas.
Afternoon: Transfer to Alejandro Sánchez Cordero Airport for your flight back to Sydney.
Evening: Reflect on a memorable 10‑day journey through Peru’s natural wonders.
Find HotelsIf you wish to extend the trip, add an extra day in the Sacred Valley to explore the less‑crowded ruins of Huchuy Qosqo or a full day at Lake Titicaca. To shorten the itinerary, you could replace the Humantay Lake visit with a shorter hike around the Qorichaca Canyon or skip the Maras‑Moray stop, keeping travel time minimal while still experiencing Peru’s iconic landscapes.