Machu Picchu Mystery Expedition
An adventure where we intentionally keep the exact destination or route a secret until you arrive. You can't look up the place or come with set expectations; instead, you trust us and step into the unknown.
Everything You Need To Know
Highlights
- Sunrise and sunset sessions
- Private mule support and logistics team
- Curated pacing for best photo opportunities
- Access to remote alpine viewpoints
What You'll Need
- Moderate to strong fitness is required. You should be comfortable hiking 4-8 miles (6.5-12.8 km) per day on mountain trails with elevation gain
- The pace is steady and manageable, with breaks for instruction and photography
What Makes This Location Special
This mystery route to Machu Picchu is a photographer's dream come true. It is one of the most beautiful and least known trails in the Andes. Since the path is only open to a small number of people, you won't find it in guidebooks or online. This means that your group will be the only one that you see on the route. The trip starts in the high alpine, where you can see a huge 6000-meter peak up close and in person. Then, it goes down into a cloud forest that is almost untouched by people. Every part of the trip is meant to give you the chance to take world-class photos and experience the raw beauty of Peru. You can expect a rare and immersive creative experience in a landscape that few people ever get to see, led by a photographer who knows exactly when and where the best images show up.
Why This Route
The mystery makes every moment more creative and real for photography because you are seeing the landscape in a new way instead of copying shots you have already seen online. It's an immersive adventure that gives you an experience that very few people have ever had.
Your Journey Unfolds
Trekking Day 1
The mystery expedition begins. We travel a few hours from Cusco to the trailhead and begin the hike.
Photo Focus
- Adventure and landscape style shots
- Sublime glaciated peaks
- Lush Peruvian cloud forest
Accommodation
Camping
Meals
Lunch, dinner
Trekking Day 2
We stopped right above the homestead the day before. From here we will walk an easy path to the homestead through a tranquil corridor of the valley.
Photo Focus
- Waterfalls
- Peruvian cloud forest
- Biolife
Accommodation
Camping
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Rest Day / Explore Homestead, Ruins, Waterfall
This day we can explore around the homestead. There is an abundance of activities and photo opportunities from hiking to a waterfall, visiting ancient ruins, bird watching.
Photo Focus
- High waterfall
- Rivers
- Lush cloud forest
Accommodation
Camping
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Trekking Day 3
We hike down a lush valley with bamboo forests and viewpoints of pristine cloud forest landscapes. We will stay at a coffee farm that has been in operation for generations.
Photo Focus
- Deep cloud forest scenes
- Bridge crossings
Accommodation
Camping
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Trekking Day 4
We hike to Aguas Calientes and join the main hiking trail to Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
Camping
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Machu Picchu / Return to Cusco
We go to visit the 'Lost City of the Incas,' Machu Picchu. After visiting the site, we will return to Cusco by train.
Photo Focus
- Machu Picchu
Accommodation
Camping
Meals
Breakfast, lunch
Who's Leading This Adventure
Matt Stacy
After falling in love with Peru's mountains in 2022, Matt has led dozens of expeditions into the Cordillera Huayhuash. Living full-time in Peru for 4+ years, he's intimately familiar with the optimal shooting locations, weather patterns, and logistical intricacies of this remote circuit. His photography has been featured in adventure publications worldwide.
Local Guide Partners
Supported by experienced Peruvian mountain guides who know every trail, pass, and campsite. Our local team handles all logistics so you can focus entirely on photography.
The Practical Details
Meeting Point
Cusco, Peru
Transportation
Airport and bus terminal transfers. Transportation to trailhead and back to Cusco. Train tickets back to Cusco from Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
Mixed—Hotel & Camping - Hotel in Machu Picchu town. Camping during the trek with tents provided.
Meals
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Group Size
Up to 10 photographers for optimal flexibility
Our Philosophy
We keep groups intentionally small so you have the flexibility to capture the shots that matter to you. No waiting in line for the perfect angle, no rushing because the group needs to move on. Everyone gets the time and space they need.
What's Included
Investment
USD $3,000
Balance Due
- • Deposit Required: Upon booking to secure your spot
- • Balance Due: 60 days before departure
Payment Methods
Bank Wire Transfer, Credit Card
Cancellation Policy
90+ days: Full refund minus $200 admin fee. 60-89 days: 50% refund. 30-59 days: 25% refund. Less than 30 days: No refund. Travel insurance strongly recommended.
View Full Cancellation PolicyWhat's Included
- Airport and bus terminal transfers
- Transportation to trailhead and back to Cusco
- Entrance fees to Machu Picchu
- Hotel in Machu Picchu town
- Train tickets back to Cusco from Machu Picchu
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Certified mountain guide
- Cooks, porters and mules
- Tents
- Emergency horses
- Published photography guide
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Transport from Lima to Cusco
- Accommodations
- Sleeping bag (rentals available)
- Camera equipment
- Extra personal snacks
- Photography equipment insurance
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal gear
What To Bring
Essential camera equipment for this adventure
Have Questions About Gear?
Don't have all the equipment listed? We can provide recommendations for rentals or alternatives. The most important thing is to bring what you have and be ready to learn. We'll work with your current setup to help you get the best possible results.
Machu Picchu Mystery
USD $3,000