The beautiful Mirador Tres Cruces Paucartambo is located 2 hours and 30 minutes from the province of Paucartambo and 4 hours from the city of Cusco. This incredible viewpoint is located very close to the entrance to the Manu National Park, at an altitude of 4000 m. / 13123 ft.
Tres Cruces Paucartambo is one of only two places in the world where you can witness the sunrise in such splendor . The main attraction here is the stunning sunrise, which displays a stunning array of colors. This unique phenomenon allows you to see the shades of the sky, the light, and the shape of the sunrise in a truly extraordinary way.
The Festival of the Virgin of Carmen in Paucartambo is one of the most exciting and popular religious festivals in Peru. Held every year in mid-July, this unique Andean festival lasts four days and features beautiful dances, local food, and impressive parades. INKA TRAIL offers adventurous culture enthusiasts the unique opportunity to witness the festival of the Virgin of Paucartambo firsthand.
We start our journey from Cusco and have enough time to enjoy all the planned activities. We head to Paucartambo through a stunning Andean landscape. We enjoy a beautiful afternoon and evening in Paucartambo, a charming town known for its traditional Andean culture and vibrant festivals, arriving just when the festival is at its peak (it will be an unforgettable day).
We will continue our journey to Tres Cruces, known as one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world . Located on the edge of the Manu National Park. We will arrive at Tres Cruces at the end of the night. We will contemplate the beautiful surroundings while preparing for the early start of the next day. Ready to witness the extraordinary sunrise the next morning.
So during this phenomenon, you can witness two sunrises, also known as double sunrise. The first is a false sunrise, in which you can see the glow of the sun rising over the horizon full of lush vegetation for about 20 minutes. The second sunrise reveals the sun in all its splendor, illuminating the dense jungle of Manu for approximately 10 minutes. The light illuminates with a mix of yellow and orange hues that are a visual delight for visitors. Also there, every winter solstice (at the end of June) a natural phenomenon known as 'the white ray' occurs , which only occurs in Japan and Cusco . During this natural phenomenon you can see an optical illusion with three suns on the horizon caused by the effervescent light and the proximity of the sun to the planet.
In addition to the mesmerizing sunrise, you will also be able to enjoy stunning views of the Ausangate mountain range, a snow-capped peak that adorns the Paucartambo River. The landscape is further enhanced by the majestic Apuqañaqway, known by locals as the “protector of Antisuyo.”
Back to Paucartambo around 7am after sunrise.
In Paucartambo we will visit the Temple of the Virgin of Carmen and the famous bridge built in the style of King Charles III. Here we will witness more than 15 traditional dances, all of them part of the festival of the Virgin of Carmen. At 3:00 pm we will join the procession of the Virgin of Carmen, marveling at the skills of the dancers.
At 5:30 pm, collect your belongings and board the bus for the return trip to Cusco. You will arrive in Cusco around 9:00 pm, concluding this memorable tour.
Note: Accommodation, transport, meals and additional excursions can be arranged.
Tres Cruces, The Virgen del Carmen (Paucartambo) - 2024 | $ 75.00 USD |
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Pbl H
July 7, 2025
Realizar el camino Inka de dos días con esta empresa ha sido una experiencia difícilmente olvidable y totalmente recomendable. La gestión de traslados, reserva de alojamiento, desayunos y comidas ha sido inmejorable. Tuvimos la suerte de contar con un guía llamado Javier que mostró amplísimos conocimientos sobre todos los lugares que visitamos, así como sobre animales, pájaros, mariposas, flores y plantas que observamos, lo cual enriqueció enormemente la experiencia. Además organizó anticipadamente todas las gestiones relacionadas con la ruta para despreocuparnos de todo. Tuvimos mucha suerte de que Javier fuera nuestro guía, así que recomiendo sin duda vivir la experiencia con esta empresa y si tenéis suerte Javier quizás os pueda acompañar.
Elisabeth T
July 7, 2025
El camino Inca corto es una forma inolvidable de llegar a Machu Picchu. Todo el camino y la visita fue inmejorable, Javier fue un guía muy atento y amable, que respondió a todas nuestras preguntas y con el que fue muy interesante conversar. Recomendaría la experiencia a cualquiera.
Manu
July 5, 2025
We did the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Javier, and we couldn’t have asked for a better guide. From start to finish, he was knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly supportive, especially on the uphill climbs! He shared so much insight about Inca history, the significance of the sites along the way, and even little details that made the experience more meaningful. You can tell he truly cares about the land, the culture, and the people he’s guiding. On a practical level, he was extremely organized and thoughtful. He checked in with us throughout the hike, adjusting the pace as needed, offering encouragement during the tougher climbs, and making sure we felt supported and safe. He also knew the best spots for breaks and photos and trust me, the man has a great eye for capturing the perfect picture! If you’re thinking about doing the Inca Trail whether it’s a short trek or the full journey do yourself a favor and request Javier. He doesn’t just guide you to Machu Picchu, he guides you through an experience that stays with you long after the hike is over.
Sean M
July 1, 2025
The trip on the Salkantay Pass was absolutely amazing. Beautiful views and an unbelievable overall atmosphere. Our guide, Johann went above and beyond making sure we had a safe, informative, and fun trip. I don’t know if we could’ve done this with anybody else. The porters, chef, and overall crew were all amazing and did so much to make the experience amazing, and share the landscape and history with us. Amazing trip I can’t recommend more, especially with Johann
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