Peru Essentials


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Deep dive into a Peruvian way of life
Get Peru-sing through this South American hotspot on a 21-day in-depth adventure. Setting off from its cultural capital in Lima, pass by Paracas, Nazca and Arequipa on your way to Cusco. Watch condors ruling the skies of Colca Canyon, follow the ancient trade route of the Inca on the legendary Inca Trail – finishing up at the breathtaking Machu Picchu – and get a feel for local life on a visit to Lake Titicaca's floating islands. You’ll have a knowledgeable local leader alongside to point you in the right direction, plus plenty of freedom to tailor your own adventure, so what’s stopping you from getting a feel for Peru?
4.8
56 reviewsStart: Lima, Peru
End: La Paz, Bolivia
- Duration
- 21 days
- Group size
- 1 to 16
- Minimum age
- 15 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Basix
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Explorer
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
- The giant desert inscriptions of the Nazca Lines are one of Peru's great unsolved mysteries. See them up close on foot or treat yourself to a bird's eye view on an unforgettable scenic flight.
- Wake early and observe Andean condors taking to the sky during their morning routine as the sun rises in the spectacular Colca Canyon.
- A trip through Peru wouldn't be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. With three different options to choose from, how you experience this lost Inca citadel is up to you.
- Experience a memorable night with a local family on Lake Titicaca, taking you right to the heart of island traditions.
- Consider extending your stay in Bolivia to peer through the shop windows of the Witches’ Market in La Paz, witnessing a world of unique, curative traditions.
- At Intrepid we’ve always been about balancing profit and purpose and as the largest B Corp certified operator on the Inca Trail we’re committed to operating our treks for the benefit of all – join us and help make the world a better place.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Peru's coastal capital. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. With no activities planned until then, why not take a walk around the vibrant Miraflores area. Alternatively, stroll along to Parque del Amor (Love Park) for a great view of Lima's beaches. After, get to know your fellow travellers better over dinner. Whether you dine with the group or sample the city's renowned food scene on your own, don't miss Peru's national dish, ceviche. If you're not a fan of seafood, there are plenty of other excellent options on offer – be sure to ask your local leader of their favourite dishes.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Lima - Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Lima - Museo de la Nacion (entrance fee) - PEN10
- Lima - Banco Central de Reserva Museum (entrance fee) - PEN5
- Lima - Museum of the Inquisition - Free
- Lima - Gold Museum Entrance Fee - PEN35
- Lima - Coast Biking Urban Adventure (minimum 2 participants) - USD65
- Lima - Private: Home Cooked Tour Ceviche experience Urban Adventure (Based on 2 Participants) - USD85
- Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) - USD35
- Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants) - USD50
- Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Discovery Urban Adventures (minimum 2 participants) - USD39
Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where the welcome meeting will take place. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time for the meeting, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
This morning, set out on a half-day walking tour of Lima's historical centre. Flanked by streets of ornate mansions, palaces and churches, Plaza Mayor is the best place to start any exploration of Lima. Take a walk through the old streets to get a feel for local life. On one side of the plaza is the Cathedral of Lima, which houses the remains of Lima's founder, Francisco Pizarro. Nearby is the San Francisco Monastery, with its catacombs containing some 70,000 human remains. Maybe go and browse the fresh produce on offer at Lima's central market, tasting fresh fruit and street food. Your walking tour wraps up in Lima's main square, with the rest of the day free to do as you wish. Later, perhaps head out for dinner with the group.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lima - Leader-led walking tour
- Lima - Guided tour of San Francisco Monastery, including The Catacombs Admission Fee - PEN20
- Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) - USD35
- Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
Be ready for an early start as you head to Lima’s bus station around 6 am and hop on a local bus to Paracas (approximately 4 hours). During this journey it's unlikely the bus will make any stops, so please ensure you prepare yourself with water, snacks, and anything else you need. The small fishing town of Paracas is the gateway to the Islas Ballestas and the Paracas National Reserve. When you’ve arrived, you'll have the option of visiting Paracas National Reserve today with a local guide. The duration of the tour is around 2.5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and expansive desert. For some local food specialties back in town, head to the boulevard near the beach and try some Tejas – small sweets made from nuts and dried fruits.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Paracas - National Reserve guided tour - PEN97
This morning, there may be a chance to visit Islas Ballestas for an optional day trip. Here, there will be lots of opportunities to see wildlife such as penguins, sea lions and flamingos from a speedboat. Speak to your group leader about your options and when the best time to visit would be. Later on this morning, continue on to Nazca, travelling for around 3 hours and arriving in the early afternoon. Nazca is famous for the Nazca Lines – enormous designs inscribed into the desert floor. Who drew them, how and why is unknown, but most scientists believe the Nazca people created them around 2000 years ago. For the best view this afternoon, consider an optional scenic flight to see them from the air – this lasts 30 minutes and covers most of the 26 impressions. Be wary though – the planes turn sharply from side to side for viewing from both sides of the plane, so it’s not for the faint-hearted!
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Ballestas Islands - Guided tour - PEN97
- Nazca - Scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (excluding 77 PEN Taxes at Nazca Airport) - USD100
If you wish to book in a scenic flight today, your group leader can only assist you with companies that Intrepid Travel has risk assessed and have been deemed safe to fly with. Your leader is specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting booking this activity through any other operators, as well as transfers to and from other operators. Maximum weight per passenger is 120 kgs/ 264 pounds, extra fees apply if over this weight limit.
To ensure you don’t miss out on the Scenic Flight over the Nazca Lines due to unavailability, we have made the activity available to be pre-booked via your booking agent
Enjoy a lazy day in Nazca with a late check out, then in the afternoon, transfer to the local bus station and board a bus to Arequipa (approximately 11 hours, with no stops). Don't forget to pack plenty of water, more snacks and a good book! You’ll arrive in Arequipa late in the evening and transfer to the hotel to check in.
Standing at the foot of El Misti volcano and oozing all that Spanish colonial charm, Arequipa vies with Cusco for the title of Peru's most attractive city
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
This morning, head on a leader-led orientation walk with your group, where you’ll visit the main square and Mercado San Camilo. During your walk around Arequipa, you'll come to understand why it’s referred to as the ‘White City’. Built out of the pale volcanic rock, the old buildings shine brightly in the sunshine. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and explore Arequipa. Perhaps start at Monasterio de Santa Catalina – this 16th-century convent has a unique history, having once only accepted women from high-class Spanish families. From here, drop by the Juanita Museum and take a look at the ‘Ice Maiden’ – the well-preserved mummified remains of a young Inca girl who died in the 1440s. Otherwise, while away the rest of your day in the cafes and restaurants surrounding the main plaza, tasting a rich Peruvian coffee.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Arequipa - Juanita Museum Admission Fee - PEN20
- Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee - PEN45
In the morning, around 8 am, venture out by private vehicle to Chivay (approximately 5 hours). There’ll be plenty of time to stop and take pictures along the way as you're likely to see llamas, alpacas and vicunas. You'll have the chance to try some coca tea – a local herbal variety made from leaves of the coca plant – from roadside tea stalls. After a third stop at Patapampa (the highest point of your adventure, standing at 4800 metres above sea level), descend into Chivay town for a free evening. Choose to spend it soaking in the local baths, dining on Alpaca steak, or listening to live Andean music at a Pena (music hall). Your group leader will know all of the best spots to go, so be sure to ask them.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Colca Canyon - Guided tour
- Colca Canyon - La Calera hot springs - PEN15
Accommodation in Chivay is in a very basic hostel. While there are ensuite toilets, there's no heating (you can request extra blankets) and some rooms can be noisy.
Early in the morning, take a short drive from town into the renowned Colca Canyon. This river canyon in southern Peru is sprinkled with traditional villages, terraced agriculture and trekking routes, and is home to the predatory Andean condor. Witness the morning routine of this mighty ruler of the sky, gazing as they circle this extraordinary natural ravine. Depending on weather conditions you’ll head on a short hike around the area (approximately 45 minutes) before returning to Chivay town. In the afternoon, travel back to Arequipa (approximately 5 hours), then relax into a free evening with your fellow adventurers.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Colca Canyon Condor Visit
Another day in Arequipa is a perfect time to get out and see what highlights you can explore today. For a bit of culture, why not stroll down to Casa Museo Villalobos for a look at the extensive art collection. If you’re looking for something a bit more hands-on, there are regular cooking classes in the city – be sure to speak to your group leader for their recommendations. Keep in mind in the afternoon you’ll transfer to the bus station and board a bus to Cusco (approximately 11 hours with no stops).
- Overnight Bus (1 night)
- Breakfast
With only one road out of Arequipa, please note there may be delays at the beginning of your bus journey. The bus has comfortable reclining seats and a toilet on board. It's recommended to pack some extra water and snacks.
Buses in South America can often get quite cold due to the air conditioning being left on. Often, a movie is played on a central screen and through the bus speakers; however, it’s recommended to have a book or charged device to use along the journey. If you’re looking at getting some sleep, we recommend packing a few layers to keep warm and a pair of earplugs to block out any unwanted noise.
Arrive in Cusco on your overnight bus sometime between 6.30 and 7.30 am. When you arrive, transfer to your hotel to drop your bags and head into town for breakfast. After, your leader will give you the choice of heading straight out for an orientation walk or resting in the hotel for a few hours before a stroll in the afternoon. On your leader-led tour, you’ll visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, local San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. This afternoon, enjoy some more time at your leisure to explore Cusco. In the evening, join your group leader and fellow travellers for an Inca Trail and Machu Picchu briefing.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN135
- Cusco - Cathedral Entrance Fee - PEN40
- Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee) - PEN20
- Cusco - Half Boleto Turistico Pass (access to selected archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN75
- Cusco - City tour and 4 Ruins (min 4 people) - USD40
- Cusco - Pre-Colombian Museum - PEN20
- Cusco - Inca Museum (entrance fee) - PEN10
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure - USD35
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
Depending on the travel arrangements you made before the trip, during the next four days you’ll be doing one of the following: hiking the Inca Trail (Route 1), hiking the Quarry Trail (Route 2) or staying in Cusco for two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes (Route 3). All routes visit Machu Picchu.
While away from Cusco, the bulk of your luggage will be stored at your hotel. If you’re hiking the Inca Trail or the Quarry Trail, the evening before you leave Cusco you'll receive a small duffle bag to carry your clothes in for the next four days (5kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. You won't have access to these items until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. If you’re travelling to Aguas Calientes by train, you'll be able to leave most of your luggage at the hotel in Cusco and travel with only a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Today travel by minivan to the 82 kilometre marker and meet your crew of local porters, cook and guide. The first day includes uphill trekking to the campsite, which is at 3100m above sea level. On the way you’ll see the Inca sites of Ollantaytambo, Huillca Raccay and Llactapata, as well as incredible views of snow-capped Veronica Peak. In the evening, unwind at the campsite with a nourishing meal prepared by your cook.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
Make an early start today and drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where Incas worshipped the moon. Drive to the starting point of the trek, Rafq'a, and meet the horsemen who join us on the hike. After an hour’s walk, reach the small community of Socma. Carry on to the Perolniyoc Cascade lookout, an opportunity to stop for photos and a food break. Continue to the campsite, which is 3700 metres above sea level. You should reach the campsite around lunchtime. After lunch, set off to explore the Q'orimarca archaeological site, which once served as a checkpoint to the Incas.
Route 3 Cusco
Enjoy a free day in Cusco, the heart and soul of Peru. You may like to purchase a boleto turistico, which allows entry to the city's many museums and archaeological sites. Ask your leader for their recommendations.
- Camping (with basic facilities) or Hotel (for Train option) (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- 3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters' support. Or guided Cusco stay (Machu Picchu by train)
Route 1 Inca Trail (starting elevation 2688m) - Your trekking time today will be approximately 8 hours or 12 km, with an elevation gain of 412m and a descent of 68m
Route 2 Quarry Trail (starting elevation 3220m) - Your trekking time today will be approximately 6.5 hours or 7 km, with an elevation gain of 480m and a descent of 0m
Included lunch and dinner on this day is for travellers on the trekking options.
The Inca Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people, but please come prepared, as the trail is 45 kilometres long and often steep. Each day's journey generally consists of seven hours of walking (uphill and downhill), with stops for snacks and lunch. Trekking usually begins at 7 am (except on the fourth morning) and you reach the campsite around 5 pm. Accommodation on the trek is camping (three nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.
The Quarry Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people. The hike is 31 kilometres long in total and its highest pass is at 4450 metres above sea level. Throughout the trek, horses will carry your gear and camping equipment. The first two nights are spent camping and the third night you will stay at a simple hotel. Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the most challenging day of the trek as you ascend a long steep path (approximately 5 hours) to reach the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as 'Dead Woman's Pass', Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 metres above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 metres.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the hike. A 3 hour walk takes us to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa (approximately 4370 metres high). After enjoying picturesque views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, make the two-hour hike to Kuychicassa, the highest pass of the trek at 4450 metres. From here, descend to the sacred site the Incas called Intipunku. This is a sun gate, where the sun will stream through at particular times of the year and there are views of the Nevado Veronica mountain year-round. The Incas built several sun gates, the most notable overlooking Machu Picchu. Head to the campsite, only a stone’s throw away and at 3600 metres.
Route 3 Cusco
Today is yours to spend as you wish in Cusco. Perhaps use the day to indulge your inner foodie at Cusco's many cafes, restaurants and markets. The ChocoMuseo is a must for those with a sweet tooth - they offer tastings and chocolate-making workshops.
- Camping (with basic facilities) or Hotel (for Train option) (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Route 1 Inca Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 8 hours or 12 km, with an elevation gain of 1127m and a descent of 627m
Route 2 Quarry Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 7.5 hours or 14 km, with an elevation gain of 750m and a descent of 700m
Included lunch and dinner on this day is for travellers on the trekking options.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Start the day with a climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass (3980 metres). Enjoy views of the snow-capped mountain of Cordillera Vilcabamba before descending for around 2 to 3 hours to the ruins of Sayacmarca. Continue over the trail’s third pass to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca (3850 metres), also known as 'Town Above the Clouds'. Start the 2 hour descent down the Inca steps to the final night's campsite by the Winay Wayna archaeological site.
Route 2 Quarry Trail to Aguas Calientes
Today’s hike will all be downhill. The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. Around midday, come to the end of the trek. Explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who didn't hike. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Route 3 Train to Aguas Calientes
After a drive to Ollantaytambo (about 1.5 hours), catch a train through the winding Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes (another 1.5 hours). The city is nestled in the cloud forest at the foot of Machu Picchu. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who hiked the Quarry Trail. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
- Camping (with basic facilities) or Hotel (for Train option) (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Route 1 Inca Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 10 hours or 15 km, with an elevation gain of 400m and a descent of 1350m
Route 2 Quarry Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 4.5 hours or 10 km, with an elevation gain of 0m and a descent of 950m
Included lunch and dinner today are for travellers on the Inca Trail trekking option only. There is an included lunch for travellers on the Quarry Trail trekking option.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the final and most spectacular leg of the trek to Machu Picchu. The day starts before dawn with breakfast at 4 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and then begin hiking by 4.30 am. Once the final checkpoint opens at 5 am, begin the final leg of the trek. The walk to Intipunku (the Sun Gate) takes around 2.5 hours. Weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Route 2 Machu Picchu to Cusco
Take an early bus up to Machu Picchu at 5.30 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters.
Route 3 Machu Picchu to Cusco
Take an early bus up to Machu Picchu at 5.30 am. The city was built around 1440 AD as a country retreat for Incan nobility, but there’s evidence that the land had been a sacred Incan site for much longer. Take a guided tour around the ruins of temples, palaces and living quarters.
For all travellers, after taking advantage of the seemingly endless photo opportunities, it's time to catch the bus to Aguas Calientes where you’ll stop for lunch together. From here, take a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo where you'll spend the night.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Machu Picchu - Entrance & Guided visit
Route 1 Inca Trail - Your trekking time today will be approximately 4 hours or 6 km, with an elevation gain of 81m and a descent of 331m
According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only and once the guided visit commences exiting, re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site. Personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.
Due to safety reasons the final checkpoint for all trekkers does not open until 5 am. The estimated arrival time at Machu Picchu's Sun Gate for Inca Trail trekkers is approximately 7.30 am. For Quarry Trail trekkers and train travellers the first bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu departs at 5.30 am. The estimated arrival time is between 6 and 6.30 am. The sun rises at Machu Picchu at approximately 5.30 am, therefore it's not possible to be there in time for sunrise.
Due to Intrepid's internal safety policy, our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking trips to the mountaintop ruins of Wayna Picchu.
Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the fertile Sacred Valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. During your community visit, enjoy an included lunch, prepared and cooked by local community members. If your visit coincides with market day, you could spend time browsing the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos. In the afternoon, take a bus back to Cusco for a free evening.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Sacred Valley - Community visit & lunch
- Ollantaytambo - Archaeological site - PEN70
Enjoy some free time to delve a little deeper into Cusco. Those with weary legs might want to simply grab a coffee from a cafe at Plaza de Armas and do some people-watching. For those still seeking an active adventure, the hills that surround Cusco are well-suited for some mountain biking. Ask your group leader for advice on optional activities and how to make the most of your day.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Cusco - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
- Cusco - Humantay Lake Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD130
- Cusco - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 paticipants) - USD100
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Sacred Valley - Mountain Biking (Price Based on 2 Participants) - USD170
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure - USD35
In the morning, travel by local bus through the Altiplano plateau to Puno (approximately 7 hours). There will be one brief stop along the way at Pucara. Here you'll also have the chance to buy some snacks and take a toilet break. Puno is known as the folklore capital of Peru and is famous for its traditional dances. If you're lucky, your visit might coincide with an evening parade, when the streets fill with costumed dancers and musicians.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Puno continues to experience some occasional ongoing political unrest. With safety always our priority, on some departures we may need to use alternative transportation to avoid affected areas. Your tour leader will advise of any specific changes to transport or the itinerary in this destination that need to be put in place.
Puno sits on the shores of Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake in the world. Enjoy a tour of the lake by slow motorboat (8 knots per hour), stopping off to visit the Uros floating islands. Local Uros people built these islands to isolate themselves from rival tribes in ancient times. They're built completely from layers of totora reeds, which grow in the shallows of the lake. After your boat trip, transfer to the Llachon Peninsula to enjoy a local community homestay tonight. You’ll have the chance to help your host family with their daily activities or perhaps join a game of soccer or volleyball in the village with the local kids.
- Homestay (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay
Your homestay tonight is in a mudbrick house, with shared drop toilets but no shower. It can get quite cold here. The homestay will provide plenty of blankets, but remember to pack thermals and ample layers.
In the morning, board a boat for a visit to Taquile Island – a great place to pick up some locally knitted goods. On the island, knitting is strictly a male domain, while women do the spinning. An hour’s uphill trek brings you to the main area of the island. Explore the local markets before descending the 500 steps back to the boat. Afterward, return to Puno (approximately 3 hours) arriving around 3 pm. The remainder of the day is free.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
At around 7 am, travel by local bus to Desaguadero (approximately 3 hours) and cross the border into Bolivia. You’ll say goodbye to your Peruvian leader and meet your Bolivian leader. You'll be asked to leave the bus to proceed through Peruvian migration. The group will then walk across a bridge, submit passports at the Bolivian migration office, and reboard the bus for La Paz. Approximately 30 minutes after crossing the border into Bolivia, there's another stop where the army will check your documents again. The journey to La Paz takes 6–9 hours (depending on the border crossing time). You made it! In the evening, chill out with an optional dinner with your travel group.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Today is a long travel day, and keep in mind that Bolivia's time zone is 1–2 hours ahead of Peru. Check with your group leader when adjusting your watch.
Please note that our leaders are not able to organise a trip to the ‘Death Road’ to Coroico for you, due to safety concerns. Injuries are common along the road and there have been a number of fatal accidents. Our leaders are also unable to organise tours to the Potosi Mines for safety reasons.
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out policy. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end though. La Paz is alive with colour and culture, no place more than the city’s renowned Mercado de Hechiceria (Witches' Market). If you’d like to spend more time in La Paz, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
- Breakfast
- La Paz - Visit to the 'Witches Market' - Free
Inclusions and activities
20 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Train, Public Bus, Private Vehicle
Camping (with basic facilities) (3 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (15 nights), Overnight bus (1 night)
- Lima - Leader-led walking tour
- Colca Canyon - Guided tour
- Colca Canyon Condor Visit
- Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk
- 3 Night/4 Day Inca Trail (or 2 Night/3 Day Inca Quarry Trail) guided hike(s) with porters' support. Or guided Cusco stay (Machu Picchu by train)
- Machu Picchu - Entrance & Guided visit
- Sacred Valley - Community visit & lunch
- Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay
- Lima - Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Lima - Museo de la Nacion (entrance fee) - PEN10
- Lima - Banco Central de Reserva Museum (entrance fee) - PEN5
- Lima - Museum of the Inquisition - Free
- Lima - Gold Museum Entrance Fee - PEN35
- Lima - Coast Biking Urban Adventure (minimum 2 participants) - USD65
- Lima - Private: Home Cooked Tour Ceviche experience Urban Adventure (Based on 2 Participants) - USD85
- Lima - Lima Water Show (Based on 4 participants) - USD40
- Lima - Lima Pisco Making (Based on 4 participants) - USD35
- Lima - Private Larco Museum (Based on 4 participants) - USD50
- Lima - Bohemian Barranco (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Eat Street (Based on 4 participants) - USD75
- Lima - Lima Discovery Urban Adventures (minimum 2 participants) - USD39
- Lima - Guided tour of San Francisco Monastery, including The Catacombs Admission Fee - PEN20
- Paracas - National Reserve guided tour - PEN97
- Ballestas Islands - Guided tour - PEN97
- Nazca - Scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (excluding 77 PEN Taxes at Nazca Airport) - USD100
- Arequipa - Juanita Museum Admission Fee - PEN20
- Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee - PEN45
- Colca Canyon - La Calera hot springs - PEN15
- Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN135
- Cusco - Cathedral Entrance Fee - PEN40
- Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee) - PEN20
- Cusco - Half Boleto Turistico Pass (access to selected archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN75
- Cusco - City tour and 4 Ruins (min 4 people) - USD40
- Cusco - Pre-Colombian Museum - PEN20
- Cusco - Inca Museum (entrance fee) - PEN10
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure - USD35
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Ollantaytambo - Archaeological site - PEN70
- Cusco - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
- Cusco - Humantay Lake Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD130
- Cusco - Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 paticipants) - USD100
- Sacred Valley - Mountain Biking (Price Based on 2 Participants) - USD170
- La Paz - Visit to the 'Witches Market' - Free
This trip generates 32 kg of CO2-e per person per day
Learn more about our climate commitment.
When you travel with us, The Intrepid Foundation gives you more opportunities to support important causes in destinations you visit.
Before you book you should know
- This trip involves a lot of travel on local buses, including some long trips and an overnight bus. Bus travel can be tiring, but is also a great opportunity to relax, rub shoulders with the locals and enjoy the scenery.
- There will be a lot of hiking and walking on this trip – especially if you choose the Inca Trail option – so travellers require at least a moderate level of fitness. There are a few different trail options to suit your interests and physical capabilities. Please bring durable footwear suitable to hiking. See the ‘What to Take’ section of the Essential Trip information for more details.
- You’ll be staying in some very basic group accommodation with shared facilities, especially along the Inca Trail and on Lake Titicaca (where there are drop toilets and no showers). This is all part of the adventure of being among nature.
- This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the ‘Health’ section of the Essential Trip information for more details.
- According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors to Machu Picchu must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. We will do all that is possible to get everyone traveling in a group on the same route, but be aware that it is possible that members of the same group might be visiting Machu Picchu on a different circuit and not be together during this visit. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted.
- Travellers who choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), will not follow the same routes within Machu Picchu. This means that you may not be able to have photos together, overlooking Machu Picchu. This applies to travellers on the same booking or separate bookings.
- Inca trail permits are limited and it's important to book well in advance, read more about it here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-permit/
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
LAKE TITICACA HOMESTAYS
As a responsible travel company, we believe in facilitating positive and meaningful exchanges between our travellers and locals at the places we visit. Homestays are a great vehicle for us to facilitate this!
What will you do during a homestay? Well…it’s hard to tell. As you know a day in a family’s life varies from day to day. We don’t want this experience to feel forced (on you or on them) so we ask families to simply carry on with their lives and that, if there is anything that you may be interested in being part of, they ask you to join in. As such you may be invited to help cook dinner, or to go to the local market for groceries, or to join a soccer game with the kids! While your leader will give you some tools to interact with your family (such as some simple words/phrases in Quechua and/or Spanish) big smiles and lots of sign language can go a long way!
That said, it’s also important that you understand that you are not obliged to participate in these activities. We believe that the more you put in the more you get out of an experience, but we also understand that you may just want to chill out, grab a book or your camera and go for a wander – and that is fine too.
Ultimately, we believe that by simply being there, observing family and friends dynamics is a step forward towards understanding the local way of life.
In terms of facilities, the rooms are clean and comfortable (or as comfortable as they get in this part of the world!) however quite basic. Plenty of blankets are provided. Ask for more if you are cold. Layering up with thin thermals and a fleece material will help during very cold nights too.
Lastly, be aware that some homestays in Lake Titicaca have shared drop toilets and no showers. So mind your step!
PERU
Due to local energy supply and infrastructure issues, please be prepared for some cold showers while travelling in Peru.
Hotel Santa Cruz
Av. Santa Cruz 1347
Miraflores
Lima
PERU
Description
Hotel Santa Cruz is located on the skirts of district Miraflores. Some rooms are equipped with safety box, free WI-FI, hair dryer and air conditioning.
Instructions
Intrepid can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure.
If you have a confirmed arrival transfer, International arrivals you’ll be met in the Arrivals Hall outside gate 3 on the first floor by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. Please ask them who they’re picking up to confirm you’ve met the correct transfer representative.
If you have a confirmed arrival transfer, Domestic arrivals you’ll be met in the Arrivals Hall outside gate 1 on the first floor by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. Please ask them who they’re picking up to confirm you’ve met the correct transfer representative.
Depending on traffic, the journey to your hotel will take between 30 and 90 minutes.
In case of flight cancellations, changes, or unforeseen delays, please contact our local office on the number in the ‘Problems and emergency contact information’ section. Free wifi is available at the airport. Alternatively, please go to the information booth located on first floor, between the domestic and international arrivals gates, inside the terminal in front of the escalators. If required, they can make a phone call for you. This is also where our transfer representatives will go if they don’t meet you as you exit customs.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the airport to your hotel. We recommend TAXI GREEN, who have counters in the Arrivals Hall where you can arrange a taxi for PEN100. We advise against using taxis outside the terminal as their prices are very high.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. Nationals from the United States need a visa to enter Bolivia and you we highly recommend you obtain this visa in advance from your nearest Bolivian consulate or Embassy. Not obtaining the visa in advance is likely to cause long delays at the border.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 18 (Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
3. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for bus, train or flight tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.
4. Inca Trail permits are sold on request basis only. Once deposit is paid and passport details provided, Intrepid will endeavor to secure a permit for you.
If Inca Trail permits are unavailable by the time you book, you can opt to hike the Inca Quarry Trail instead: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/peru/machu-picchu/quarry-trail
The Inca Trail closes in February to allow cleaning and restoration works. If the trek portion of your trip starts in February you will be automatically booked to hike the Inca Quarry Trail.
5. While hiking the 4 Day Inca Trail or the 3 Day Inca Quarry trail portion of this trip you may be joined by other Intrepid and/or non-Intrepid travelers.
6.Please be aware that while hiking the Inca trek or the Quarry trek that you may be joined by passengers from other Intrepid groups.
7. As you can choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), there is a small chance you may be the only traveller on your selected option.
8. At the time of booking, please advise whether you would like to hike the classic Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or take the train. When available, the Inca Trail will be booked as the default option. Fees may apply to changes made after the time of booking, and availability on other options cannot be guaranteed.
9. This trip includes a domestic flight within Argentina. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage. Should you wish to bring heavier luggage it is possible to increase your allowance by paying a fee at check in.
10. According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations all visitors must follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to relieve crowding. The circuit-based entrance tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. For travellers who opted for the Quarry Trail and Train options we will endeavour to get everyone traveling in a group on the same circuit. Regardless of the circuit you will enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the site. Travellers completing the Inca Trail will enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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