Andean Villages Ride

Tag 1: Urubamba

ITALY / CUSCO / URUBAMBA / MISMINAY (-/L/D)
This short horseback tour in the Sacred Valley of the Incas allows you to explore charming Andean villages and lesser-known Inca archaeological sites, far from the most crowded tourist routes. An authentic experience that combines adventure, nature and culture, perfect for those who wish to discover the most genuine side of Peru. Along the route you will ride to the evocative Huaypo Lagoon, a spectacular mirror of water nestled among the mountains, and visit the surprising church of Ttiobamba, a place rich in history and local traditions. During the tour you will stay overnight in welcoming local communities, living in close contact with the local population and discovering their customs, traditions and Andean lifestyle. An ideal trip for lovers of experiential tourism, horseback riding and sustainable travel in the Sacred Valley.

Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), you should arrange an independent transfer to the town of Urubamba (pick-up by our correspondents at 8:00 a.m.). We recommend arriving the previous night with accommodation in Cusco or Urubamba – quotation upon request.
The horseback departure is scheduled around 10:00 from the stables in the village of Paucarbamba, at 2,828 meters. We will cross a wooden suspension bridge and continue along the valley floor on the right bank of the Vilcanota River. The eucalyptus trees growing along the riverbanks will accompany us until we reach one of the largest Inca cemeteries of its time, located on the cliffs of the village of Yanahuara. Shortly after crossing the village of Yanahuara, we will arrive at the Tarabamba suspension bridge, where we will register to enter the Salinas de Maras. The trail leading to the salt flats is rocky, narrow and steep, which is why we will proceed slowly until reaching the complex. Once there, we will dismount and visit the site on foot. Afterwards, we will get back in the saddle and ride up to the Andean village of Maras, where we will enjoy our first lunch with a view of the snow-capped mountains of Chicón and San Juán. After lunch, we will ride along a picturesque trail that will lead us to the village of Misminay, where our hosts will welcome us for dinner and overnight in a guesthouse.

Tag 2:

MISMINAY / HUAYPO (B/L/D)
After breakfast, around 9:00, we will ride downhill to the Moray viewpoint. This place played a very important role in its time. We will stop for lunch in an open field around noon. In the afternoon, the horseback ride will take us to Huaypo Lagoon, where we will settle into comfortable domes overlooking the lagoon.

Tag 3:

HUAYPO / CHINCHERO (B/L/D)
Today we will ride to Chinchero, where we will arrive in time for lunch. In the afternoon we will visit the historic center and learn more about ancient textile techniques. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Tag 4:

CHINCHERO / URUBAMBA / CUSCO / ITALY (B/L/-)
After breakfast, we will ride toward the community of Machu Qolqa, from where it is possible to admire the villages of Urquillos, Huayllabamba, Yucay and Urubamba. Afterwards we will visit the Catholic temple of Ttiobamba, built in the 16th century, and the stone portals of Maras. We will enjoy a final lunch in Maras before returning on horseback along the valley floor, arriving once again at the Hacienda. Arrival at the hacienda is scheduled for 17:30.
Transfer to Urubamba included or to Cusco (extra charge). Flight to Italy (overnight recommended) or continuation of your personalized journey.

Note: The itinerary described above is indicative. It may be subject to changes due to weather conditions or circumstances beyond our control.
Notes: (B/L/D): B = breakfast; L = lunch; D = dinner
Difficulty level: From ° to °°°°°


DURATION: 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS
DIFFICULTY: FROM ° TO °°° (INTERMEDIATE)
ACCOMMODATION: Guest houses / lodge
EQUIPMENT: McClellan-type saddle with saddlebags
HORSES: PERUVIAN PASO. We have 20 Peruvian Paso horses, known for their smooth gait and elegance. We have horses with different temperaments, able to adapt to riders of all levels. The Peruvian Paso horse transmits its unique and naturally fluid gait to purebred foals. No artificial devices or special training aids are needed for the horse to perform the “Paso llano”, which guarantees an incomparably smooth ride.
GAIT: 4 days in the saddle. From 5 to 7 hours per day in the saddle. Predominantly walking pace due to mountainous terrain, faster gaits in the valleys.
WHAT TO BRING: layered riding clothing, including waterproof. Helmet, water bottle, snacks. Small backpack, windbreaker, power bank, binoculars, Swiss army knife, first aid medicines, repellent, sunscreen. Be aware of nighttime temperature changes.
MAXIMUM WEIGHT: 90 kg
MINIMUM AGE: 8 years
TYPE: itinerant trekking with overnight stays in guest house / lodge

ACCOMMODATION:
Night 1: Guesthouse in Misminay
Night 2: Lodge at Huaypo Lagoon
Night 3: Hotel in Chinchero

Full board treatment from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 4. Typical Peruvian cuisine. It is possible to report any intolerances or allergies.

Departure dates available on request throughout the year with a minimum of 3 participants
PARTICIPANTS: MIN 3 MAX 10


SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS
Supplement per person for departure with 2 riders Euro 20.00
Overnight stay in double room BB in Cusco or Urubamba (Casa Andina or similar) Euro 190.00 per person
Overnight stay in single room BB in Cusco or Urubamba (Casa Andina or similar) Euro 380.00