Around Cusco: Highlands, Sacred Valley and Amazon
From Arequipa to Cusco, via Titicaca Lake
Est Driving Time
14 to 20 days
Distance
1,025 km
Overview
From Arequipa, the White City, set off on a scenic journey toward the Colca Canyon, with the towering volcanoes of the Cordillera as your backdrop. Along the way, pass through authentic Andean villages nestled along the canyon’s edge, where traditions remain untouched by time. Marvel at the sheer depth of the Colca Canyon, plunging 4,160 meters, before relaxing in the soothing thermal springs that dot the region.
From there, ascend once more to the vast high plateaus, where the legendary Lake Titicaca stretches across the horizon. Continuing your route toward Cusco, travel through dramatic canyons, ancient archaeological sites, and vibrant-colored mountains, each offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Leg 1
From Arequipa to Chivay
Est Driving Time
4 to 5 hours
Distance
167 km
You will leave Arequipa heading northwest, passing by the Yura cement factory before beginning your ascent toward the high plateau that connects to Puno. However, long before reaching it, you’ll take a left detour, leading you through a breathtaking route that climbs steadily toward a mountain pass at 4,900 meters.
At the foot of this impressive pass lies Chivay, a charming Andean town that serves as the gateway to the Colca Canyon. Surrounded by towering peaks and terraced landscapes, Chivay offers an authentic glimpse into high-altitude Andean life and its spectacular natural surroundings.
Leg 1 highlights
Helpful links
Leg 2
From Chivay to Puno
Est Driving Time
6 to 7 hours
Distance
300 km
Once you have explored the breathtaking Colca Canyon, make your way back to the high plateau, following the scenic route that leads to Puno. Along the journey, take the time to stop for stunning panoramic views, where crystal-clear lagoons reflect the surrounding majestic mountains.
At this altitude, the air is crisp, and the wind is strong, reminding you that you are nearly touching the sky. The vast Andean landscapes, stretching endlessly before you, create a sense of serenity and wonder—making every turn of the road an unforgettable experience.
Leg 2 highlights
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Leg 3
From Puno to Tinajani
Est Driving Time
3 hours
Distance
185 km
You will begin your journey northwest toward Cusco, crossing to the other extreme of the High Plateau. Your first stop is Lampa, a charming traditional town renowned for its historic basilica and unique artifacts that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
From there, continue driving up the valley, gradually ascending toward the mountain pass that overlooks the breathtaking Tinajani Canyon. Before descending, take a moment to admire the forest of Puya Raimondii, the world’s tallest bromeliad, which thrives in this high-altitude environment. Then, embark on a hike through the Tinajani Canyon, where dramatic geological formations sculpted by time create an awe-inspiring landscape.
Leg 3 highlights
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Leg 4
From Tinajani to K’anamarka
Est Driving Time
3 hours
Distance
137 km
Enjoy a stunning journey across the high plateaus, where the vast, open landscapes create an unforgettable experience. As you travel, you’ll reach the K’anamarka archaeological site, set in a truly unique environment surrounded by remote hamlets of camelid breeders, who maintain their traditional way of life.
Wander through this ancient site in complete solitude, with no crowds to interrupt the serenity. The silence of the plateau, broken only by the wind and the distant calls of grazing vicuñas and alpacas, adds to the mystical atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Leg 4 highlights
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Leg 5
From K’anamarka to Palcoyo
Est Driving Time
4 hours
Distance
140 km
Continue your journey toward Q’eswachaka, the last Inca bridge, an impressive handwoven structure that has been meticulously rebuilt by local communities for centuries. Standing on this ancient bridge, you’ll feel the deep connection between past and present, surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes.
From there, travel through the Four Lakes Region, where shimmering waters reflect the beauty of the highlands. Along the way, stop to explore traditional villages, where Andean culture thrives in everyday life.
Once you arrive in Combapata, take the scenic route up the valley toward Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, a stunning alternative to the more famous Vinicunca.
Leg 5 highlights
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Leg 6
From Palcoyo to Cusco
Est Driving Time
4 hours
Distance
154 km
Today, descend through the valley back to Combapata, before beginning the final stretch toward Cusco.
You may want to stop at the Urcos market, where locals gather to trade fresh produce and handcrafted goods. Alternatively, visit the Andahuaylillas Sixtine Temple, a breathtaking colonial church renowned for its stunning frescoes and intricate baroque art. If history and engineering fascinate you, explore the Tipón Inca terraces, an impressive example of Incan hydraulic mastery.
Finally, arrive in the unique capital of Cusco, where ancient history, colonial charm, and vibrant culture converge in one extraordinary city!
Leg 6 highlights
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Leg 7
From Tunkimayo to Santa Teresa
Est Driving Time
2 hours
Distance
80 km
Leave Quillabamba this morning and begin your ascent toward Santa María, where you will turn right to Santa Teresa. As you navigate this route, drive cautiously, as the road is under constant maintenance due to frequent landslides during the rainy season. Along the way, take in the stunning views of the lush cloud forest and the dramatic changes in elevation.
Once in Santa Teresa, unwind in the hot springs, where the warm, mineral-rich waters offer a perfect break before continuing your journey.
Head toward Hidroelectrica, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you will settle in for the night, preparing for the visit of the Lost City of the Incas.
Leg 7 highlights
Leg 8
From Santa Teresa to Chinchero
Est Driving Time
5 to 6 hours
Distance
200 km
Today, you leave the Amazonian lowlands behind and make your way back to the Andes! Your first challenge is reaching the Malaga Pass, the final guardian standing at 4,300 meters above sea level. As you ascend, watch the scenery transform from dense jungle to snow-capped peaks, offering breathtaking panoramic views before you begin your descent into the Sacred Valley.
Once in Urubamba, take a right turn toward the historic villages of Maras and Moray. Here, you can explore the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning network of thousands of salt pools, and the Moray terraces, an impressive agro-archaeological site once used by the Incas for experimental farming.