Day 1: Cusco, the Inca’s Old Stomping Ground

Land in Cusco, Peru’s high-altitude hub (11,000 feet, so take it slow). We’ll grab you from the airport and settle you into a quirky guesthouse in the city’s cobbled streets. Afternoon’s for chilling—wander the Plaza de Armas, sip coca tea to dodge altitude sickness, and meet your guide. They’ll spill some Inca legends over dinner, like the one about Viracocha, the god who popped out of a lake. Sleep early; tomorrow’s big.
Heads-up: Drink water. Altitude’s no joke.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Secrets

Hop in a van and head to the Sacred Valley. First stop: Pisac, a village with ruins that feel like they’re humming with old magic. Your guide talks about how the Inca read the stars like a map. Then it’s Ollantaytambo, a fortress-town where the Inca fought off invaders. You’ll hear whispers of a hidden tunnel to Machu Picchu—nobody’s found it, but the story’s creepy. Crash in a local lodge, surrounded by mountains that look like they’re guarding something.

Day 3: Trekking the Inca Trail (Kinda)

Today’s a taste of the Inca Trail—not the full slog, but a solid day hike to get your blood pumping. You’ll climb through cloud forests, past crumbling stone steps the Inca carved centuries ago. Your guide points out weird rock formations they say were altars for sun worship. Lunch is quinoa and veggies by a stream. End the day at a campsite near Aguas Calientes, the town at Machu Picchu’s base. Stars are unreal tonight, and the guide might spook you with a tale about ghostly Inca warriors.
Pro tip: Pack a rain jacket. Weather flips fast.

Day 4: Machu Picchu, the Main Event

Up before dawn—sorry, but it’s worth it. Catch a bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu, and step into the ruins as the first light hits. This place feels alive, like the stones are whispering. Explore the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone (maybe a cosmic clock?), and hidden corners tied to Inca rituals. Your guide shares a legend about a lost city of gold the Inca hid from invaders. Free time to wander or climb Huayna Picchu for a killer view (book early, spots are tight). Back to Aguas Calientes for a chill night and a pisco sour.
Fun fact: Some say Machu Picchu’s energy messes with your dreams. Sleep tight!

Day 5: Back to Cusco, Soul Full

Morning’s free in Aguas Calientes—grab some alpaca souvenirs or hit a hot spring if you’re feeling it. Train back to Cusco through the valley, with views that’ll burn into your brain. You’re back in Cusco by afternoon, with time to roam before your flight. Those Inca vibes? They stick with you, like you’ve brushed against something ancient.