Epic Peru, Bolivia & Argentina





Discover all the highlights and a few secrets along the way on an epic trip across South America
This 26-day adventure covers all of South America's most iconic sights, with a local leader to show you the way and plenty of free time to choose your own adventure. Go wildlife-spotting in the heart of the Amazon jungle, where you’ll float and trek among anacondas and caimans, walk in the footsteps of the Inca (or alternatively, take a leisurely train ride) to Machu Picchu – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at Bolivia's mind-bending salt flats in Salar de Uyuni, stay on the floating islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca in a unique homestay experience and sip a glass of malbec in atmospheric Buenos Aires. With locals to show you the secret hotspots and fellow travellers your own age to explore it all with, this trip has all the opportunities of an epic adventure!
4.9
14 reviewsStart: Lima, Peru
End: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Duration
- 26 days
- Group size
- 1 to 16
- Ages
- Min 18 - Max 35
- 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.
- 18 to 35s
- 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
This trip is for 18 to 35 year olds
Tick off all the popular spots and enjoy unique local experiences
Affordable trips with the freedom to choose how you spend your time
Connect to the places you go and the communities at the heart of every Intrepid experience
Why you'll love this trip
- Float down the Amazon River through the jungle at night, keeping an out for the glaring eyes of jaguars, anacondas and caimans. Don’t worry, you’ll be accompanied by a local expert!
- Stay with the locals during a homestay on Lake Titicaca, on the colourful floating islands of Uros that look like they come straight out of a Pixar movie.
- Walk on water (sort of) at the sprawling salt lakes of Bolivia – the largest salt flats in the world, Salar de Uyuni is amid the Andes and serves up some pretty epic photos ops.
- See how spicy Latin America mixes with the best architectural styles of Europe in the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires – maybe take a tango class and head out to bust your moves in the vibrant nightlife hotspot.
- Whether you trek the Inca Trail, Inca Quarry Trail or take the scenic train route, you'll be travelling responsibly with a company that cares about balancing profit and purpose. Intrepid is the largest B Corp certified operator on the Inca Trail and we’re committed to operating our treks for the benefit of all.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Lima, the capital of Peru. Your adventure begins at around 2 pm with a welcome meeting. Then, your trip leader will take you on a walking tour of the Miraflores district, including Central Park (Parque Kennedy), the LarcoMar entertainment complex and Parque del Amor (Love Park) for great views over the coast of Lima. Along the way, maybe treat yourself to some Limenian desserts like mazamorra morada, rice pudding or rice zambito. Tonight, you’re free to explore or hit the city’s nightlife with your new fellow travellers. Maybe head to the famed Tanta restaurant in downtown Lima – home to the most famous chef in Peru Gaston Acurio.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Lima - Leader Led orientation walk of Miraflores
- Lima - Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Lima - Guided tour of San Francisco Monastery, including The Catacombs Admission Fee - PEN20
- 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 - Coast Biking Urban Adventure (minimum 2 participants) - USD65
- Lima - Museum of the Inquisition (entrance fee) - Free
- Lima - Gold Museum (entrance fee) - PEN35
- Lima - Museo de la Nacion (entrance fee) - PEN10
- Lima - Banco Central de Reserva Museum (entrance fee) - PEN5
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
This morning, you’ll fly to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Jungle, where you'll be staying for two nights. When you arrive, the lodge staff will take you to their office in town. Here, you can leave most of your luggage in safe storage and continue travelling with a small pack of essentials. You’ll take a motorised canoe upriver to your jungle lodge right in the middle of the jungle, in the Madre de Dios area – this is a real pinch-me moment! The next two days are packed with activities. Your full day in the jungle includes a half-day trek – this can get muddy and tiring, but what better way to explore the Amazon than on foot. There will be regular stops on the way and you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat. You might even spot macaws, monkeys, peccaries, jabirus and otters, not to mention thousands of butterflies. The guides will also teach you about the medicinal properties and practical uses of the local plants. For your night-time excursion, you’ll venture out in the dark in search of caimans on the Tambopata River. The naturalist guide will use a spotlight to locate them on the banks of the river, so you can observe them from a respectable distance. Travelling in the dark, on the river in the jungle can be a bit spooky, but this atmosphere just adds to the fun.
- Amazon Lodge (2 nights)
- Breakfast (2)
- Lunch (2)
- Dinner (2)
- Amazon Jungle - Jungle Lodge Stay
- Amazon Jungle - Night Boat Tour
- Amazon Jungle - Half-day Trek
Your travel time on Day 2 will be approximately 7 hours.
You’ll stay at two different lodges in the same area. The activities may vary slightly according to which lodge you’re in. The included night excursion may be on the night of Day 1 or Day 2. As both lodges are in the same area of the jungle, you’ll see the same wildlife and your overall jungle experience will be the same at either lodge.
Say goodbye to the jungle and fly to Cusco, where you’ll spend the day acclimatising to the high altitude. After dropping off your luggage and having lunch, your leader will take you on a walk around downtown Cusco. You’ll visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, the local San Pedro market, the main square, the Twelve Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. Maybe try some donas along the way. This afternoon, head to Casa Intrepid – our new concept shop, community hub and bar in the heart of the city. Here, you'll learn how to craft the Pisco sour, Peru's national cocktail, in a hands-on mixology class. Discover the perfect balance of Pisco, lime juice, syrup, egg white and bitters while learning about the story behind the drink. The rest of the evening is free to explore as you like. As you’re acclimatising today, we recommend keeping strenuous activity to a minimum.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Cusco - Orientation Walk
- Cusco - Pisco Sour Demonstration
- Cusco - Cathedral Entrance Fee - PEN40
- Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN135
- Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee) - PEN20
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure - USD35
This morning, unwind on a drive through the Sacred Valley, on the fringes of Cusco. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas – this lush, fertile valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Head to a local community to learn about the valley’s lifestyle and activities – if your travel falls on a Sunday, Tuesday or Thursday, it’s market day! Comb the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos and master the local Quechuan language (a few words will be deemed a success). Take a short drive to Ollantaytambo. Later in the afternoon, maybe head out to visit Ollantaytambo’s awesome Incan ruins. Tonight, rest up at your hotel and prepare for the Inca Trail.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Sacred Valley - Community visit & lunch
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours including activities.
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.
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 (5 kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, along with the trail's food and equipment. 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
Travel by minivan to the 82 km marker and meet your crew of local porters, your cook and your guide. Today you’ll trek uphill to the campsite, 3100 m 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. Tonight, 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. From here, you’ll head to the small community near Qory Song’o (Golden Heart) hill, where you’ll climb to the top for the incredible views of the Soqma Perolniyoc, Pachar and Huarocondo valleys. There are also several sacred tombs in the area, protected by the locals, which you can explore with your leader and even see some of the original structures crafted from wood and leather. These remains have never been seen by travellers before, so you can be a part of this exclusive experience. Carry on to the Perolniyoc Cascade lookout, where you can stop for some snacks and photos. Arrive at the campsite, 3700 m above sea level, around lunchtime. After, 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 on trek or Hotel (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 today are for travellers on the trekking options only.
The Inca Trail is within the abilities of most people with moderate fitness. The trail is 45 km long and often steep, so come prepared. 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 Day 4) 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 suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness. The hike is 31 km long in total and its highest pass is at 4450 m 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.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Today is the most challenging day of the trek, as you’ll ascend a 5-hour long steep path to the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as 'Dead Woman's Pass', Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 m above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 m.
Route 2 Quarry Trail
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. A 3-hour long walk takes you to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa (approximately 4370 m high). After enjoying picturesque views of the valley, you’ll stop for lunch. Then make the 2-hour hike to Kuychicassa – the highest pass of the trek at 4450 m. 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, at 3600 m. Your trek today will take about 5 hours.
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, too.
- Camping on trek or Hotel (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 are for travellers on the trekking options only.
Route 1 Inca Trail
Start the day with a climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass (3980 m). Enjoy views of the snow-capped mountain of Cordillera Vilcabamba before descending for 2 to 3 hours to the ruins of Sayacmarca. Continue over the trail’s third pass to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca (3850 m), 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
Today’s hike will all be downhill. The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata Quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. If time permits, you can explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. This is where you’ll meet with the travellers in your group who didn't hike. Spend the night in a hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Route 3 Train to Aguas Calientes
After a drive to Ollantaytambo, catch a train through the winding Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes. 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 hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
- Camping on trek or Hotel (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 on this day are for travellers on the Inca Trail only. There will be an included lunch for travellers on the Quarry Trail.
Route 1 Inca Trail
This is the final and most spectacular leg of the trek to Machu Picchu. Start your day before dawn with breakfast at a crisp 4 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and then begin hiking. Walk 2.5 hours to Intipunku (the Sun Gate) and, weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. When you arrive, all the hiking and the early morning will definitely be worth it!
Route 2 and 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, then drive back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Machu Picchu - Guided tour
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 you exit, re-entering the site is not permitted. Personal exploration 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.
Today you’ll enjoy free time to relax, shop for souvenirs or see more of Cusco's sites. Maybe head to a cafe on the Plaza de Armas, or if you're a thrill-seeker, try mountain biking in the hills surrounding Cusco. You might also want to go for a walk through Seven Borreguitos – one of the most photogenic streets in Cusco. In the evening, you might want to head out to dinner with your group and share photos of your Machu Picchu experience. Cusco is also a hotspot for fun nightlife, so if you’re feeling like a boogie or a cocktail, grab your new mates and hit the streets.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure - USD35
- Sacred Valley - Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- 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 - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
This morning, travel by bus through the Altiplano plateau to Puno. The town 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. When you’re settled, maybe head out and make the most of the nightlife.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
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 leader will advise of any specific changes to transport or the itinerary in this destination.
Puno sits on Lake Titicaca's shores – the world's highest navigable lake. Today, you'll take a tour of the lake by slow motorboat, stopping off to visit the Uros floating islands. The Uros peoples built these islands to isolate themselves from rival tribes in ancient times. They're built completely from multiple layers of totora reeds, which grow in the shallows of the lake. Tonight is your homestay in a local community on Llachon – a cosy mud-brick house with shared drop-toilets (no shower is available here). It can get quite cold, but the homestay will provide plenty of blankets. It’s recommended that you pack thermals and plenty of layers. Help your host family with their daily activities or maybe play a game of soccer in the village.
- Homestay (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Enjoy a home-cooked breakfast by your host family this morning, learning about their life and their stories. Then, explore the rest of the island. In the afternoon, take the boat back to Puno, where the rest of your day is free to explore.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Travel by local bus this morning and cross the border into Bolivia. You'll be asked to leave the bus to proceed through Peruvian immigration. The group will then walk across a bridge, submit passports at the Bolivian immigration office and reboard the bus for La Paz. Today is a long travel day, so make sure you’ve got your favourite playlists or books ready – or play some road trip games with your fellow travellers. Tonight, why not head out on the town for an optional group dinner.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
In some instances, you may take an alternative route across the Strait of Tiquina via boat for the border crossing. Your leader will advise the best option on the day of travel.
Enjoy a free day to explore La Paz. Despite the abundance of colonial architecture, La Paz's Indigenous roots run deep, and the atmosphere in the streets is both modern and traditional. Maybe head out into the city, which sits in the middle of a vast volcanic crater. Breathe the ‘thin’ air, marvel at the vistas of buildings clinging to the canyon sides and explore the lively streets like Calle Jaen. Tonight, you’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm. After, why not head out to find the perfect dinner spot (your leader will have the best recommendations) or explore the nightlife with your fellow travellers.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
Today, you’ll head out on a brief guided walk with your leader. La Paz is a city renowned for its markets, especially the Mercado de Hechiceria (the Witches' Market), which sells potions, incantations, stones and artefacts. Ask a local about their significance – most people are happy to explain. Then, you’ll have some free time to explore. Maybe visit the Coca Museum, which isn’t too far from your hotel in the Rosario district. Late this afternoon, leave La Paz on an overnight bus to Uyuni. There are comfortable recliner seats on the bus, but it can be cold on board, so it’s important to bring warm clothing and wear base layers. There’s usually a toilet on the bus, and the driver will make a couple of stops along the way.
- Overnight bus (1 night)
- Breakfast
- La Paz - Visit to the 'Witches Market'
- La Paz - Orientation Walk
- La Paz - Tiawanaku tour (min. 2 participants) - USD50
- La Paz - City Tour & Moon Valley (min. 2 participants) - USD40
- La Paz - Coca Museum - USD3
Your travel time today will be approximately 12 hours.
Our leaders cannot 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 can also not organise tours to the Potosi Mines for safety reasons.
This morning you’ll arrive in Uyuni Town. This remote town sits on the edge of the high Altiplano – a wilderness area extending for hundreds of kilometres towards the border with Argentina and Chile. Over the next three days, you’ll explore Bolivia’s highlights and fascinating landscapes in a 4WD – an experience of a lifetime! The first stop will be an eerie Train Cemetery (a super unique photo spot), then, you’ll continue to Salar de Uyuni – the world’s largest salt flats. This is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world and definitely a trip highlight, so make sure you take some amazing photos, explore on foot and take it all in. Make the most of your time on the salt flats before exploring Inka Wasi Isla – a rocky island covered in cacti and coral-like structures.
- Dormitory (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Uyuni - Salt flats tour
- Salt flats - Visit to 'Fish Island/Inca Wasi'
- Uyuni - Orientation Walk
- Uyuni - Colchani Salt Factory Visit
- Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve - Altiplano tour including Laguna Colorada
From December to March, there’s a risk of the salt lake being flooded. If this is the case, the itinerary will be adapted.
Today will be spent driving through the spectacular landscape of the Andean (Atacama) Desert, surrounded by volcanoes and lakes. Stop by the red lake of Laguna Colorada, where you’ll be able to spot wildlife like llamas, flamingos, viscachas and foxes feasting in the nutrient-rich waters. Tonight you’ll spend a night in the desert under the stars.
- Dormitory (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Accommodation in the desert is basic and shared. A single supplement is not available here. Shower facilities can be unreliable and cold, as the pipes often freeze in winter. Solar panels generate electricity, so there won’t be enough power to charge electronic devices. In the rainy season, the itinerary may need to be altered depending on the accessibility of roads.
Today you’ll reach an altitude of around 4900 m.
This morning, rise and shine early to embrace the cold and stop by the desert’s natural thermal baths for an optional soak. Then head to the Bolivia and Chile border, where the Bolivian part of your trip comes to an end. Pass by geysers, salt flats and snow-capped volcanoes on your way to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. As a small oasis town, San Pedro is surrounded by extraordinary scenery. Arriving around 3 pm, your night is free to find a delicious local dinner with your group.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Bolivian Altiplano – Polques Thermal Baths - USD1
Over the next two days, get under the skin of San Pedro. The local cafe and restaurant scene has grown considerably over the last couple of years, with a mix of Chilean, French and Italian influences, so you’ll definitely find a great spot for lunch and dinner. Take a self-guided walk around the old square and people-watch with a cup of coffee or consider joining an astronomy tour tonight once the stars come out and bring out your inner stargazer – just chat to your leader for details.
- Hotel (2 nights)
- Breakfast (2)
- San Pedro de Atacama - Astronomic Tour (min. 2 participants) - CLP39000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Meteorito Museum - CLP5000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Rainbow Valley (guide and entrance) (min. 2 participants) - CLP55000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Cejar Lagoon (guide and entrance) (min. 2 participants) - CLP66000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Moon Valley (guide and entrance) (min. 2 participants) - CLP50800
Today will be a long day of travel as you leave San Pedro and head for Salta, Argentina. Salta's rich history, architecture, friendly locals and natural surroundings make it one of Argentina's main attractions. Grab a window seat or a good book and watch the scenery pass you by. Tonight, you’re free to rest or head out for a late dinner when you arrive.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Salta - Orientation walk
- Salta - Archaeological Museum - USD2
- Salta - Cerro San Bernardo Chairlift - USD3
Your travel time today will be approximately 12 hours.
After breakfast, today is a free day to explore Salta and its many attractions. If you’re after something active, hike up the 1070 steps to the summit of Cerro San Bernardo, the mountain that looms over Salta. If you'd prefer, you can also take a gondola (cable car) to the top to take in the views of the mountainous city below. Either way, the view from the top is magnificent!
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
After breakfast and a free morning in Salta, you’ll take an included flight to Buenos Aires – Argentina's capital. When you arrive, you might like to head to a local tango show or a football match. Maybe grab a steak and glass of Malbec (the steak and wine combo are what Argentina is known for) in one of the city’s fashionable restaurants for dinner.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Buenos Aires - Tango Show and Dinner - USD120
- Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from - USD120
Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning, head to San Telmo market with your leader and sample some empanadas (a must-try in Buenos Aires) and some local ice cream (Argentina’s famous dulce de leche). The rest of the day is free to explore the city. Join the tourists and walk among the tombs at the La Recoleta Cemetery – the final resting place of Eva Peron. There are also some great museums to check out in the Recoleta district. Visit the neighbourhood of La Boca, home to the colourful Caminito artists’ street and world-renowned soccer team, the Boca Juniors. If you need to rest your feet, settle down at one of the many streetside cafes to watch the world go by with the locals. Tonight, why not head out to a couple of bars with your group for some classic Argentinian nightlife?
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Buenos Aires - San Telmo Market Visit with Snacks
- Buenos Aires - Polo day - USD185
- Buenos Aires - Recoleta Cemetery - USD7
- Buenos Aires - Ateneo Bookshop - Free
- Buenos Aires - Caminito Street - Free
After breakfast, your adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned for today, so you can leave the accommodation at any time after check-out.
- Breakfast
Thinking of staying on to explore more of this fascinating city? We recommend checking out our Buenos Aires Short Break (GGAA) for a 3 day in-depth city exploration!
Inclusions and activities
24 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners
4x4, Bus, Overnight bus, Plane, Van
Camping (with basic facilities) (3 nights), Jungle Lodge (2 nights), Dormitory (2 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (16 nights), Overnight bus (1 night)
- Lima - Leader Led orientation walk of Miraflores
- Amazon Jungle - Jungle Lodge Stay
- Amazon Jungle - Night Boat Tour
- Amazon Jungle - Half-day Trek
- Cusco - Orientation Walk
- Cusco - Pisco Sour Demonstration
- Sacred Valley - Community visit & lunch
- 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 - Guided tour
- Lake Titicaca - Boat tour & Homestay
- La Paz - Visit to the 'Witches Market'
- La Paz - Orientation Walk
- Uyuni - Salt flats tour
- Salt flats - Visit to 'Fish Island/Inca Wasi'
- Uyuni - Orientation Walk
- Uyuni - Colchani Salt Factory Visit
- Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve - Altiplano tour including Laguna Colorada
- Salta - Orientation walk
- Buenos Aires - San Telmo Market Visit with Snacks
- Lima - Archaeological Museum (entrance fee) - PEN15
- Lima - Guided tour of San Francisco Monastery, including The Catacombs Admission Fee - PEN20
- 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 - Coast Biking Urban Adventure (minimum 2 participants) - USD65
- Lima - Museum of the Inquisition (entrance fee) - Free
- Lima - Gold Museum (entrance fee) - PEN35
- Lima - Museo de la Nacion (entrance fee) - PEN10
- Lima - Banco Central de Reserva Museum (entrance fee) - PEN5
- Cusco - Cathedral Entrance Fee - PEN40
- Cusco - Full Boleto Turistico Pass (access to 16 archaeological sites, transport & guides not included) - PEN135
- Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee) - PEN20
- Cusco - Cusco Cooking Class - USD70
- Cusco - Pisco Making Urban Adventure - USD35
- Sacred Valley - Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Rainbow Mountain Hike (Based on 4 participants) - USD105
- 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
- Cusco - Full Day Via Ferrata & Zipline - USD95
- Cusco - Full Day Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Based on 4 participants) - USD85
- La Paz - Tiawanaku tour (min. 2 participants) - USD50
- La Paz - City Tour & Moon Valley (min. 2 participants) - USD40
- La Paz - Coca Museum - USD3
- Bolivian Altiplano – Polques Thermal Baths - USD1
- San Pedro de Atacama - Astronomic Tour (min. 2 participants) - CLP39000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Meteorito Museum - CLP5000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Rainbow Valley (guide and entrance) (min. 2 participants) - CLP55000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Cejar Lagoon (guide and entrance) (min. 2 participants) - CLP66000
- San Pedro de Atacama - Moon Valley (guide and entrance) (min. 2 participants) - CLP50800
- Salta - Archaeological Museum - USD2
- Salta - Cerro San Bernardo Chairlift - USD3
- Buenos Aires - Tango Show and Dinner - USD120
- Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from - USD120
- Buenos Aires - Polo day - USD185
- Buenos Aires - Recoleta Cemetery - USD7
- Buenos Aires - Ateneo Bookshop - Free
- Buenos Aires - Caminito Street - Free
This trip generates 53 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
- Due to the high altitude of many of the places you’ll visit, some people can suffer altitude sickness. If possible, arrive a few days early to allow yourself time to acclimatise. Please see the ‘Medical and Health Information’ section of the Essential Trip Information for details.
- Making your way across the Andean Desert involves long travel days spent in 4WDs on dusty and bumpy tracks. Temperatures in the area can be very cold, especially at night, so bring warm clothes. Meals are simple, toilet facilities are basic, showers can be cold, and the multi-share accommodation is dormitory style. This is all part of the adventure. Undoubtedly, this amazing experience will be one of the highlights of your trip to South America.
- This trip involves a lot of hiking and walking, so it does require a moderate level of fitness. There are a few different trail options to suit your interests and physical capabilities. Please bring durable footwear. See the ‘What to Take’ section of the Essential Trip information (ETI) for more information.
- 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.
- 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.
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. Inca Trail permits are sold on a request basis only. Once a deposit is paid and passport details are provided, Intrepid will endeavour to secure a permit for you. If Inca Trail permits are unavailable, you can opt to hike the Quarry Trail instead https://www.intrepidtravel.com/peru/machu-picchu/quarry-trail or travel to Machu Picchu by train.
2. Full passport details are required at the time of booking. These details must match the passport you will travel on. Mismatched details can lead to refusal of entry by the Inca authorities. Delays in providing this information may result in booking fees or changes to your itinerary.
3. We will request an Inca Trail permit for you unless, at time of booking, you advise us that you wish to hike the Quarry Trail or take the train. Fees may apply to changes made after the time of booking, and availability on other options cannot be guaranteed.
4. 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. Please see the 'Passport and Visas' section of the Essential Trip Information.
5. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 2 and 3 (Amazon Jungle), Days 6, 7 and 8 (Camping), Day 12 (Lake Titicaca, Homestay), Days 17 and 18 (Dormitory), and Day 22 (Overnight bus) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
6. 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 Quarry Trail.
7. 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 with a guided tour taking place on circuit 5.
8. As you can choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), you may be joined by other Intrepid and/or non-Intrepid travellers. There is also a small chance you may be the only traveller from your group on your selected option.
9. We highly recommend you take US Dollars with you to Argentina and change it locally. While ATMs are widely available, there is a daily limit for withdrawals and the exchange rate does fluctuate.
10. 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.
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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