Itinerary

DAY 1: CUSCO - LIMATAMBO VALLEY

We leave by private transport at 8.00 am. and travel through the highlands of Anta towards the Northwest of Cusco. After passing the Willque Pass we descend into the beautiful Limatambo Valley having distant views of the Salkantay snow peak (6,272 m), a venerated Apu or deidity since pre-Incan times. Near Limatambo town we will take a well-preserved dirt road up to the picturesque highland hamlet of Chonta. Time permitting we shall briefly visit the local school that benefits from our tours through the donation of materials, before starting our two-hour trek (moderate difficulty). We will see some common birds such as seedeaters, hummingbirds and some raptors or parakeets, also native vegetation including some native trees, bushes or season flowers adorning the hillsides of the Apurimac Canyon. A short hike downhill will take us to the viewpoint in time for a delicious picnic lunch. We shall stay at this marvelous spot for 2-3 hours in order to wait for the condors to soar upwards, being transported by thermal winds. This is an unforgettable birding/photography experience and a highlight for every nature enthusiast! Later hike back to Chonta from where our vehicle will take us down to the Andean Spirit Lodge near Limatambo. The accommodation is in comfortable bungalows built with local style with private attached facilities. After a hearty dinner, you may enjoy a soul warming log fire in the lounge of the cozy Lodge. Boxed lunch & D. Overnight at the Andean Spirit Lodge. (B,BL,D)

DAY 2: HIKE TO CHOQUECHURCO

After an early breakfast, we drive for 1.5 hrs to the foot of the Choquechurco mountain to take a two-hour uphill hike through beautiful scenery passing a little know Inca ruins of the same name surrounded by a magic dwarf forest. We will enjoy a picnic lunch in this area, with views of the snow peaks of the Humantay and Salkantay. Return to the lodge in the afternoon. Overnight at the Andean Spirit Lodge. Full board. (B, L, D)

DAY 3: APURIMAC CANYON

An hour’s drive takes us to the Apurimac River where we can enjoy a spectacular scenery and dip in the thermal springs of Cconoc. Relax body and mind by a cozy log fire in the evening. Overnight at the Andean Spirit Lodge. Full board. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: ANDEAN SPIRIT LODGE

Free day at Andean Spirit Lodge. Soak in the peace of the environment, explore the garden trails or read a book in a hammock. You may book a Yoga class, meditation or a massage if you wish. The idea is that you relax. Overnight at the Andean Spirit Lodge. Full board. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: ANDEAN SPIRIT LODGE - CUSCO

After breakfast, we start our return journey to Cusco visiting the mysterious Inca sites of Killarumiyoq and Tarawasi and enjoy a picnic lunch. B & L. End of all services. (B)