Hidden in the world’s longest continental mountain range, the Andes is one of Peru’s best-kept secrets. The rainbow-coloured Vinicunca Mountains. Trekking to this spectacle, you will be treading through one of the wildest and rarely visited regions of Peru, and the crown jewel in the Andes.
Explore low alpine valleys, traditional Peruvian villages still rich in tradition and remote Andean culture. Snow-capped peaks will tower over you, herds of llamas, glaciers and turquoise lakes will encapsulate you.
Condors will soar above you, and pumas and bobcats will dart past. Bathe in hot springs along the way. You will circumnavigate the massive Ausangate Peak before reaching the breathtaking geological features of the ‘Rainbow Mountains’. The landscape looks like it has been painted with a brush. Red, orange, ochre, turquoise and blue create an unforgettable sight.
Combined with a fascinating and educational few days with remote Sacred Valley tribes, you will learn and witness their customs and traditions. From cocoa leaf ceremonies to traditional dance and storytelling under the stars, this is a journey that you will not forget, as you uncover the hidden secrets and beauty of Wild Peru.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival in Cusco (3,400m), you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure as you acclimatise to the altitude. The undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas, Cuzco is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the gateway to Machu Picchu. Cosmopolitan Cuzco (also Cusco, or Qosq’o in Quechua) thrives with a measure of contradiction. Ornate cathedrals squat over Inca temples, massage hawkers ply the narrow cobblestone passages, a rural Andean woman feeds bottled water to her pet llama while the finest boutiques sell pricey alpaca knits.
Overnight – Hotel BO Quinta San Blas: Deluxe or similar
Following breakfast this morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transferred to Patabamba Community. Its original name, Patabamba, means ‘plain’ or ‘flat place’ in Quechua. You will arrive at Patabamba Community (3,800m) at approximately 8 am and witness a coca leaf ceremony conducted by local scholars. The locals will then show you how to collect leaves, flowers, and herbs (depending on the season), which are used in the traditional process of dyeing fabric to make clothes; a technique passed down through many generations.
At 9 am, you depart from Patabamba and head to Huchuy Qosqo archaeological remains (3,550m). Located at 3,550m, the name comes from a Quechua word which means Little Cusco; however, it was also known as Q’acyacawana which means in Spanish ‘place from where we can see thunder’. Historically, it is known for being the place of Inca Wiraqocha, who died there according to legend. In colonial times, a mummy found was assumed to be Inca and was burnt by Francisco Pizarro.
During your walk, you will enjoy Inter-Andean valleys typical of the region, with impressive viewpoints over the Sacred Valley of the Incas. After a midmorning traditional-style snack, explore a part of the Inca trail which is also part of the Q’apac Ñan. In the village of Pukamarca, you will be able to take a break and enjoy a lunch box prepared by Patabamba Community members. Continue walking until you reach the archaeological remains of Huchuy Qosqo. From here, descend through typical flora and fauna from the region to the Huchuy Qosqo Community, arriving at the lower part of the Community before crossing to Lamay Qosqo (2,940m), where you will see the differences between the two communities. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Huchuy Qosqo Community in a rural homestay or similar
Walking distance – 12 km / 7.5 miles. Walking time: Approx. 6-7 hours. Difficulty: Moderate
Early this morning, enjoy a local breakfast with the Huchuy Qosqo community. From here, you will travel to the Huayllafara Community, where you will be welcomed at the Cultural Centre for Interpretation with traditional music and beautiful flowers, along with a ‘tinka’ – a symbolic benediction to Mother Earth to thank her for this new day and for spending it with people from different cultures.
After your welcome, you will meet the “Yachaqs – Children of the Earth.” The “Yachaqs” (Quechua for “wise”) are experts in Andean agriculture. Understanding the cycles and needs of Pachamama (Mother Earth) is not only ancient knowledge but also crucial for the village’s survival. In Huayllafara, you will learn about Andean agriculture and its environmental importance through the eyes of the Andean people. Community members will teach you about vertical control, time cycles, seasons, and agricultural rituals.
You will then apply your new knowledge using traditional tools to plant or harvest food and manage a team of oxen. This hands-on experience will deepen your understanding of Andean agriculture and the villagers’ relationship with the Earth. After working up an appetite, enjoy a delicious lunch with local dishes prepared fresh with ingredients harvested from the fields of Huayllafara. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Huayllafara Community in a rural homestay or similar
Walking distance and time – 8 km, 6hrs. Difficulty – Moderate. Altitude 3,550 m
Following breakfast with the Huchuy Qosqo community, you will continue to the Janac Chuquibamba community, where you will be welcomed with flowers and traditional Andean music. From here, enjoy a 30-minute walk to a rocky hill, where you will find many Achupalla plants. These spiny-leaved plants are regarded as a gift from Mother Earth by the members of the community; having medicinal purposes and are also used in many ways including making cooking utensils, bags, belts, and firewood. Even the Suksakuro worm which can be found living inside it is considered a delicacy and very nutritious! Discover the mysteries and uses of the Achupalla plant and taste the local gastronomy with products from the area.
After your walk, enjoy a lunch made by the locals with ingredients harvested from the village fields. You will finish your experience in the Andes with a traditional Earth ceremony called ‘Pago a la Pachamama’ or ‘Payment to Mother Earth’ to thank her for our experiences and learnings. Transfer to your hotel in Cusco. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel BO Quinta San Blas or similar
Walking distance & time – 10 km, 7hrs. Difficulty – Moderate. Altitude 3,600 m
Early in the morning, you will start with a fascinating trip through the fertile valley of Vilcanota to Checacupe. You will visit a colonial temple and then head uphill to the valley of Pitumarca, where you will pass through an amazing canyon called Japura, which leads you to Chillca (total drive time approx. 4hrs). There, you will be welcomed by the local community. Enjoy a short walking tour until you reach the first ‘Tambo’ (a place to rest). Once you have checked into your lodge, you will have time to relax and enjoy some typical music offered by the community. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Chillca Lodge or similar
Walking time – 1.5 hours. Difficulty – Low. Altitude 4,368 m
Today, you will start your trekking journey in the wide valley of Pampa Uyuni, witnessing the unique sights of majestic ice floes. As the path narrows, you will approach the waterfalls flowing from Santa Catalina Mountain. Visit the small Paloma lagoon and take in the beautiful landscape, which is home to llamas and alpacas. Continue past another lagoon to reach Machuracay Tambo and your lodge for the night, situated at the base of the sacred Apu Ausangate Mountain. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Machuracay Lodge or similar
Walking distance & time – 11 km, 8hrs. Difficulty – High. Altitude – 4,350 m – 4,850 m
Be sure to enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning. After an uphill hike to the valley of Palomichayoc, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views. Descend to Ausangate Cocha Lagoon and marvel at the southern part of the ‘Apu’ ice floe. Continue through the unusual reddish sandy formations of ‘Inca’s Snow Peak’ and spend the night at Anantapata Tambo, located close to the spectacular mountains. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Anantapata Lodge or similar
Walking distance & time – 10 km, 8hrs. Difficulty – High. Altitude – 4,650 m – 5,200 m
Today is one of the most fabulous parts of your trek. You will be led along the multicoloured layers of the Rainbow Mountains. This red, yellow, sienna, grey and blue path will give you a great opportunity to study geological wonders and admire the unique beauty of this landscape. More than that, this is a perfect place to observe some groups of graceful wild ‘Vicuñas’, thought to be the wild ancestor of the alpaca, which can be seen on these lonely paths.
You will overnight in Huampococha Tambo, surrounded by unusual rocky formations near the lagoon of the same name, the place where ‘Huallatas’ (Andean geese) make their nests. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Huampococha Lodge or similar
Walking distance & time – 10 km, 7hrs. Difficulty – High. Altitude – 4,730 m – 5,100 m
After a last and short uphill hike to Anta Pass, you will gradually start descending. Soon you will see the first houses and cultivated fields. The landscape changes quickly and the reddish sandy formations take over the chalkstone mountains that make up the unique rocky woods. This is an ideal habitat for spotting the shy Viscachas. Your driver will be waiting for you when you reach the valley of Pitumarca to transfer you back to Cusco (3hrs). (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel BO Quinta San Blas or similar
Walking distance & time – 8 km, 5hrs. Difficulty – Moderate to High. Altitude 4,900 m
Today is yours at leisure to explore Cusco. (B)
Overnight – Hotel BO Quinta San Blas or similar
Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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