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Really discover what South America is all about on this epic five-week journey through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. This adventure truly has it all - the Pacific coast, th read more...
Cox & Kings takes all reasonable measures to ensure your safety and enjoyment while travelling with us. The aim of this document is to give you an insight into ways you may further enhance your own personal safety while abroad.
Arrive at any time.
Spend the first day of your trip wandering Ecuador's capital city. Meet the group in the evening at the hotel.
Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
Tonight, the adventure begins. Feel free to explore - but make sure you're back in time to meet your group. After introductions, your
CEO will review the details of your trip. (None (Meals on your own))
Travel to the jungle city of Tena and continue by truck to a jungle community.
Travel overland to Tena, located on the edge of the Amazon. From there, transfer for 45 minutes by truck to the local community of Pimpilala that will be our home for 3 nights. Stay with a Quichua family, enjoy the hospitality of these wonderful people, and experience life in the jungle first-hand.
Local bus
Quito - Tena 6h-7h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Amazon Jungle Homestay
Tena
Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this amazing homestay in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay with a friendly Quichua family near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things - one that may give you a different perspective on life.
Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture. (Breakfast,Dinner,Lunch)
Spot wildlife on nature walks and learn about local traditions at an overnight homestay.
Amazon Jungle Homestay
Tena
Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this amazing homestay in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay with a friendly Quichua family near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things - one that may give you a different perspective on life.
Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture. (Lunch,Breakfast,Dinner)
Spot wildlife on nature walks and learn about local traditions at an overnight homestay.
Amazon Jungle Homestay
Tena
Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this amazing homestay in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay with a friendly Quichua family near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things - one that may give you a different perspective on life.
Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture. (Lunch,Dinner,Breakfast)
Travel to Banos, an adrenaline junkie's paradise.
Banos is the perfect setting for outdoor pursuits, including horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and rafting in the surrounding mountains and on the River Patate.
Pickup truck
Tena 45m
Hop into the back and ride along to the next destination.
Local bus
Tena - Banos 3h-4h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Free Time
Banos Afternoon
Get out and explore Banos and its beautiful surroundings.
Optional Activities
Horseback Riding
Banos
25USD per person
Hop in the saddle and explore Banos' beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views.
Mountain Biking
Banos
10 USD per person
Take to two wheels and explore the amazing scenery surrounding Banos. Pass by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and changing vegetation, depending on what path you take. Enjoy the cool wind on downhill stretches, but be sure to bring sunblock; the sun can be strong.
Hot Springs
Banos
Soak weary muscles in the thermal baths Banos is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano (which means 'little hell in Quichua), or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak - watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early morning wake-up. (Breakfast)
Opt to soak in the nearby hot springs or get active by hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking.
Free Time
Banos Full Day
Get out there and get exploring.
Optional Activities
Canyoneering
Banos
10USD per person
Take the opportunity to go canyoneering in this prime place for outdoor adventure. Get fitted with gear and go with the group to explore waterfalls, rock formations, and the area's amazing natural beauty, all from a unique (and fun-filled) perspective.
Hiking
Banos
Free
Head to the mountains for some amazing treks - Banos provides the perfect natural setting for outdoor adventure.
Mountain Biking
Banos
10USD per person
Take to two wheels and explore the amazing scenery surrounding Banos. Pass by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and changing vegetation, depending on what path you take. Enjoy the cool wind on downhill stretches, but be sure to bring sunblock; the sun can be strong.
Hot Springs
Banos
Soak weary muscles in the thermal baths Banos is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano (which means 'little hell in Quichua), or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak - watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early morning wake-up.
Whitewater Rafting
Banos
70USD per person
Hit the rapids in the adrenaline capital of Ecuador. Choose a river that suits your experience level; there a number with varying ranges of difficulty. Enjoy amazing Andean scenery and a fun-filled ride!
Horseback Riding
Banos
25USD per person
Hop in the saddle and explore Banos' beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views. (None (Meals on your own))
Travel to historic Cuenca.
Ecuador's third largest town, Cuenca, retains a pleasant provincial air with its colonial architecture, art galleries, and museums. The surrounding countryside is an outdoor playground. Visit national parks, take walks in the beautiful countryside, and see Ecuador's only Inca ruin site.
Explore the city's sights including cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, art galleries, flower markets, shady plazas, and museums.
Local bus
Banos - Riobamba 2h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Local bus
Riobamba - Cuenca 6h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride. (None (Meals on your own))
Enjoy a free day to visit Cajas NP or the Inca ruins of Ingapirca.
Free Time
Cuenca Full Day
Enjoy free time to explore colonial Cuenca and its surroundings.
Optional Activities
Ingapirca Ruins Visit
Cuenca
Visit the ruins of Ingapirca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is approximately an hour and a half drive north of Cuenca, through some of Ecuador's most beautiful countryside. Although it is a major Inca site, not a lot is known about its history.
Cajas National Park Visit
Cajas National Park 3h-6h
10USD per person
Head out for an excursion from Cuenca with a visit to Cajas National Park. Tour this natural outdoor playground that combines stunning scenery and wildlife with excellent areas for hiking. The terrain is quite stark, mostly above 4,000m (13,120 ft) in the paramo (grassy highlands), with many clear lakes. Try some of the variety of treks in the park's vast 28,000 ha, and keep an eye out for oncillas, wild llamas, pumas, and a wide variety of birds, including toucans! (None (Meals on your own))
Cross the border into Peru and head to the beach.
The adventure continues as we travel from Cuenca through the busy border town of Huaquillas and across the Peruvian border into Mancora. We follow the Pan-American Highway south to the seaside town of Mancora, a village populated by fishermen and surfers from around Peru and the world. Enjoy the relaxing beach atmosphere.
Local bus
Cuenca - Huaquillas 5h-6h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Border Crossing (Ecuador - Peru)
Huaquillas - Aguas Verdes
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Local bus
Aguas Verdes - Mancora 4h-5h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride. (None (Meals on your own))
Opt to relax on the beach, discover Mancora, go horseback riding, or take a surf lesson.
Free Time
Mancora Full Day
Enjoy a free day to relax or get active.
Optional Activities
Surfing
Mancora
Jump up on a board and catch a wave!
Horseback Riding
Mancora
Ride on a beautiful horse and get a new perspective on this area. (None (Meals on your own))
Overnight bus
Mancora - Huanchaco
Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Free time in Mancora. Overnight bus to Huanchaco.
Free Time
Mancora Full Day
Get out and enjoy this beachside town. (None (Meals on your own))
Enjoy more beach time or opt to visit pre-Inca sites or the city of Trujillo.
We continue heading south along the coast to Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru. It is known for its beautiful colonial structures and nearby attractions of Chan-Chan ruins and the resort town of Huanchaco, where we spend the night.
Free Time
Huanchaco
Get out and enjoy the beach or go further inland for exploration.
Optional Activities
Trujillo Visit
Trujillo
Walk Trujillo's centre for a taste of colonial Peru. If shoes are your thing, hit the shopping district, where you'll find beautiful hand-made leather shoes to buy, thanks to Trujillo's large local shoemaking industry.
Chan Chan Ruins Visit
Trujillo
Hop in a taxi and travel to the ruins of Chan Chan, the capital of Peru's largest pre-Inca empire, located 5km (3.1 mi) away from the city of Trujillo. Abandoned in the 1470s after the Inca army overran the city, it is now approximately 5,000 acres of eroded adobe. (None (Meals on your own))
Overnight bus
Huanchaco - Lima 8h
Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Full day in Huanchaco before boarding a night bus to Lima.
Free Time
Huanchaco Full Day
Do as much or as little as you'd like before an overnight bus in the evening.
Optional Activities
Trujillo Visit
Trujillo
Walk Trujillo's centre for a taste of colonial Peru. If shoes are your thing, hit the shopping district, where you'll find beautiful hand-made leather shoes to buy, thanks to Trujillo's large local shoemaking industry.
Chan Chan Ruins Visit
Trujillo
Hop in a taxi and travel to the ruins of Chan Chan, the capital of Peru's largest pre-Inca empire, located 5km (3.1 mi) away from the city of Trujillo. Abandoned in the 1470s after the Inca army overran the city, it is now approximately 5,000 acres of eroded adobe. (None (Meals on your own))
Explore Peru's capital on an optional city tour, try paragliding, or simply relax. Be sure to try the tasty ceviche and pisco sours.
To get a feel for colonial Lima, take a cab to the Plaza de Armas and watch the changing of the Palace Guard in the afternoon. Walk around the streets surrounding the Jiron de la Union for great examples of Spanish-colonial architecture and to experience life in a large South American city. There are many fine museums in and around the city, including the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera. An optional city tour visits many of the cities highlights.
Free Time
Lima Full Day
Get out and enjoy a first taste of Lima, the capital of Peru.
Optional Activities
Lima City Tour
Lima
Discover Lima's highlights on this half-day tour. Continue exploring at the archaeological site of Sacsaywaman.
Lima Paragliding
Lima
Glide over Costa Verde, hover over Lima's city life and see the desert dunes over Pachacamac. Tandem flights are available to those who have never glided. (Breakfast)
Enjoy the day exploring the city.
Free Time
Lima
Get out and get exploring!
Optional Activities
Lima City Tour
Lima
Discover Lima's highlights on this half-day tour. Continue exploring at the archaeological site of Sacsaywaman.
Lima Paragliding
Lima
Glide over Costa Verde, hover over Lima's city life and see the desert dunes over Pachacamac. Tandem flights are available to those who have never glided. (None (Meals on your own))
Local bus
Lima - Pisco 4h 250km
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Minibus
Pisco - Paracas 30m
It's bigger than a van, smaller than a bus, and just the right size for adventure.
Free morning in Lima before travelling by bus to Paracas.
Savour a pisco sour while staying in Pisco's neighbouring town of Paracas.
Free Time
Lima Morning
There's not a lot of time to explore this morning as the bus to the station picks up around midday. (Breakfast)
Optional visit to Ballestas Islands before travelling to Nazca. En route, stop at a winery and at the Oasis of Huacachina.
Back on land, catch a bus south to Nazca. On the way, pass by the pleasant colonial town of Ica.
Ica enjoys a dry, sunny climate year-round and is known for its huge sand dunes. Located around the nearby oasis of Huacachina, the dunes are perfect as subjects for photographs and for a favourite local past time: sandboarding. Apart from the dunes, Ica is famous for its wines and there are several wineries and distilleries in the area.
Private Vehicle
Paracas - Nazca 4h 175km
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Huacachina Winery Visit
Huacachina
Learn about the wine and pisco production in the area and enjoy a tasting of different varieties, which are all available for purchase.
There is time in the morning for an optional excursion to the popular Ballestas Islands, which provide an excellent chance to view a lively sea lion colony, pelicans, penguins, and other varieties of birdlife.
Optional Activities
Ballestas Islands Excursion
Las Ballestas
Visit this group of islands off the Peruvian coast, an excellent place to go wildlife watching. Spot sea lion colonies, Humbodlt penguins, and a variety of bird life.
Sandboarding in Ica
Ica 45m-1h
40PEN per person
Drive into the dunes in a sand buggy, making four stops along the way. Take some photos of the magnificent scenery before trying your hand at sandboarding down dunes of different sizes. (Dinner,Breakfast)
Overnight bus to Arequipa.
Overnight bus
Nazca - Arequipa 8h-9h 570km
Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Opt for a flight over the Nazca Lines. Free Time
Nazca Full Day
Enjoy some free time during the day.
Optional Activities
Flight over Nazca Lines
Nazca
105USD per person
Take to the skies for the best view of the enigmatic Nazca Lines, a series of patterns and pictures etched in the ground, crisscrossing a wide area of flat desert. Marvel at the lines measuring up to 10km (32 mi) in length, yet, remaining perfectly straight. See depictions of birds, insects, and animals only recognizable from the air. Decide for yourself the origin of the lines - who drew the lines, and why, remains a mystery. Current beliefs suggest that they may be part of complex agricultural calendar.
Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio Guided Tour
Nazca
80PEN per person
See remains of the Nazca culture during an included tour of the ancient Pre-Inca desert cemetery site of Chauchilla. Spot 1500-year-old mummies, bones, and pottery on the desert floor. The entire desert area was also once home to the ancient Paracas and the Nazca cultures, which preceded the Incas by more than half a millennium. Stop for a visit at an artisan's workshop, where modern masters create Nazca style pottery. (Breakfast)
Opt to visit the Santa Catalina Convent or a local hot spring.
Those with an interest in history and architecture may opt to visit the Convent of Santa Catalina, which offers a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. Other optional excursions include rafting and mountaineering.
For spicy food lovers, checking out one of the "Picanterias" is a must. Arequipa has a variety of regional food: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.
Free Time
Arequipa Full Day
Make the most of your time here.
Optional Activities
Santa Catalina Monastery Visit
Arequipa
Visit this 16th-century monastery (over 20,000 sq m) for its beautiful architecture built in the Mudejar style. Travel back in time wandering its small streets lined with colourful walls, and take some time to learn about its captivating history.
Arequipa City Tour
Arequipa
Head out and see the sights, exploring all you can of "the white city." (None (Meals on your own))
Take a full-day tour of the spectacular Colca Valley, and opt for a soak in hot springs.
Enjoy an overnight excursion to the impressive Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world. Stop in fascinating villages and at "miradors" (scenic lookouts), where, with a little luck, visitors can see Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Other unusual animals that can be spotted in the Andean landscape include three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama and vicuna.
Private Vehicle
Arequipa - Colca Canyon 4h30m-5h 165km
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private ride.
Colca Canyon Guided Tour
Colca Canyon 2-2.5
Spot condors on this guided tour, and keep your eyes peeled for other unusual animals. Look for three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama, and vicuna, which are all typical of Peru.
Optional Activities
Hot Springs
Chivay
Soak your weary bones in steaming hot water pouring from the earth and relax. (Breakfast)
Set out looking for the majestic soaring condors. Return to Arequipa.
Get an early start to go on the lookout for flying condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to admire these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop by some local villages and viewpoints to see old terraces and sections of Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. Take a lunch break and return to Arequipa in the afternoon.
Colca Canyon Guided Tour
Colca Canyon
Spot condors on this guided tour, and keep your eyes peeled for other unusual animals. Look for three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama, and vicuna, which are all typical of Peru.
Private Vehicle
Colca Canyon - Arequipa 4h30m-5h 165km
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private ride. (Breakfast)
Overnight bus
Arequipa - Cusco10h
Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Free day in Arequipa. Overnight bus to Cusco.
Free Time
Arequipa Full Day
Get out and explore more of this beautiful colonial city.
Optional Activities
Santa Catalina Monastery Visit
Arequipa
Visit this 16th-century monastery (over 20,000 sq m) for its beautiful architecture built in the Mudejar style. Travel back in time wandering its small streets lined with colourful walls, and take some time to learn about its captivating history.
Arequipa City Tour
Arequipa
Head out and see the sights, exploring all you can of "the white city." (Breakfast)
Free time to explore Cusco. Opt for a city tour or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking.
Free Time
Cusco Full Day
Make the most of your time in Cusco.
Optional Activities
Whitewater Rafting Urubamba
Urubamba
Rise for an early morning pick up and drive to Chuquicahuana for a safety briefing. Enjoy a full day of rafting on the Upper Vilcanota River (about 2.5 hrs on the water). Be thrilled by fast rapids that are a constant Class III and IV for around 11km (9 mi), and don't forget to take in the gorgeous scenery. Rehash all the excitement afterward over a riverside picnic lunch.
Horseback Riding
Cusco
Hop in the saddle and explore Cusco's archaeological sites by horseback on a 3.5 hr tour - no previous experience needed. Dress for the weather, and bring sunblock and a hat, just in case.
Mountain Biking
Cusco
Take to two wheels and head out into the hills around Cusco for some nature-meets-adrenaline fun. Try a trip to the Sacred Valley, perhaps, visiting an Inca ruin along the way.
La Merced Visit
Cusco
Enjoy a visit to this historic church and convent, first built in 1536 and rebuilt in 1675 (it was destroyed in the 1650 earthquake). Take in the wonderful architecture here, including Baroque Renaissance cloisters and beautiful wood carvings. There's also an ornate monstrance on display; made of gold and covered with gemstones, it's a must see.
Cusco Cathedral Visit
Cusco
Enjoy a visit to this beautiful cathedral - its construction began in 1559 and continued for another hundred years. Be sure to check out its excellent collection of colonial art, and the vault containing the remains of the famous Inca historian, Garcilaso de la Vega.
La Compania Visit
Cusco
Enjoy a visit to this beautiful church famous for its architecture and considered one of the best examples of colonial Baroque style in the Americas. Admire its stone facade and beautiful wood and gold leaf altar.
San Francisco Visit
Cusco
This charming colonial era church is named after Viceroy Francisco de Toledo, who built it in 1572. The church, like many around it, was damaged in the earthquake of 1650 and had to be restored. Admire the beautiful stone masonry here.
Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit
Cusco
Explore magnificent Corincancha, once the Incan Empire's richest temple and the main ruin site within the city of Cusco. This ruin forms the foundation of the colonial church of Santo Domingo and provides a fantastic glimpse into ancient history as well as a cross section of religion and architecture. (None (Meals on your own))
Enjoy another free day in Cusco.
Free Time
Cusco
Make the most of your time in Cusco.
Optional Activities
Whitewater Rafting Urubamba
Urubamba
Rise for an early morning pick up and drive to Chuquicahuana for a safety briefing. Enjoy a full day of rafting on the Upper Vilcanota River (about 2.5 hrs on the water). Be thrilled by fast rapids that are a constant Class III and IV for around 11km (9 mi), and don't forget to take in the gorgeous scenery. Rehash all the excitement afterward over a riverside picnic lunch.
San Francisco Visit
Cusco
This charming colonial era church is named after Viceroy Francisco de Toledo, who built it in 1572. The church, like many around it, was damaged in the earthquake of 1650 and had to be restored. Admire the beautiful stone masonry here.
Cusco City Tour
Cusco
Enjoy a half-day tour of Cusco's main sights. Walk around the Plaza de Armas (main square) and explore this city steeped in one of the world's most alluring and ancient cultures. Visit Qenqo, Koricancha, the Cathedral, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and the archaeological site of Sacsaywaman.
Mountain Biking
Cusco
Take to two wheels and head out into the hills around Cusco for some nature-meets-adrenaline fun. Try a trip to the Sacred Valley, perhaps, visiting an Inca ruin along the way.
Archaeological Museum Visit
Cusco
Get ready to explore the artifacts from the Inca Empire, including mummies, jewelry, skulls, and ceramics at this wonderful museum. Photos are not allowed here, so make sure to take pictures in your mind.
Coricancha and Santo Domingo Visit
Cusco
Explore magnificent Corincancha, once the Incan Empire's richest temple and the main ruin site within the city of Cusco. This ruin forms the foundation of the colonial church of Santo Domingo and provides a fantastic glimpse into ancient history as well as a cross section of religion and architecture.
Cusco Cathedral Visit
Cusco
Enjoy a visit to this beautiful cathedral - its construction began in 1559 and continued for another hundred years. Be sure to check out its excellent collection of colonial art, and the vault containing the remains of the famous Inca historian, Garcilaso de la Vega.
Horseback Riding
Cusco
Hop in the saddle and explore Cusco's archaeological sites by horseback on a 3.5 hr tour - no previous experience needed. Dress for the weather, and bring sunblock and a hat, just in case. (Breakfast)
Learn about the Sacred Valley en route to Ollantaytambo. Opt to take a Sacred Valley tour with a visit to a Planeterra-supported women's weaving co-op.
Ollantaytambo is a major Inca ruin site and a first taste of what lies ahead. For those craving more before they head out on the Trail, opt to take a Sacred Valley tour which includes not only Ollantaytambo and the ruin site of Pisac, but also a visit to a Planeterra-supported women's weaving co-op.
Private Vehicle
Cusco - Ollantaytambo 2h30m 95km
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities
Sacred Valley Tour
Ollantaytambo
Opt to add a Sacred Valley tour, which includes a visit to a Planeterra-supported women's weaving co-op, the impressive Pisac ruins, the colourful artisan market (market days only), and the large ruin site of Ollantaytambo that lies adjacent to the town of the same name.
Ccaccaccollo Community and Planeterra-Sponsored Women's Weaving Co-op visit
Calca
Visit the Ccaccaccollo community centre which G Adventures travellers' donations helped to create through the Planeterra Foundation in 2005, enabling local women to sell traditional textiles to travellers. See local weaving and dyeing techniques used to create garments and souvenirs, and learn how the Planeterra weaving co-operative has impacted the community and those who visit it. This includes the purchase of alpacas to provide a steady supply of wool, looms, and sewing machines as well as several training courses on production, sales and small business management.
Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour
Ollantaytambo
Tour the town and fortress of Ollantaytambo with a local guide. Take a step back in time at this Inca archaeological site - it still shows signs of its former glory, including agricultural terraces, a Temple Hill, and storehouses. Learn how the area, overlooking the Urubamba River Valley, was an important stronghold during warfare between the Spanish and Incas. (Breakfast)
Return to the Sacred Valley with the CEO to visit the sites of the Maras Salt Mines and Moray. Spend the evening in Cusco.
When the hikers leave in the morning, return to Cusco with the CEO, visiting the sites of the Maras Salt Mines and Moray on the way.
Private Vehicle
Ollantaytambo - Cusco 1h45m-2h 94km
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private ride.
Maras Salt Mines and Moray Visit
Maras - Moray
Drive a little more than an hour to get to the Moray archaeological site. Tour these unique Inca ruins, consisting of circular terraces and a sophisticated irrigation system located at 3500m (11483 ft). Learn about the history and study of this fascinating site - speculation has it that it was an Inca agriculture experiment station.
Visit the impressive Maras Salt Mines, after Moray. See thousands of individual ancient salt pools spilling over a hillside. Learn about the different varieties of salt, and try the renowned pink salt, famous worldwide. (Breakfast)
Enjoy an included tour around the old part of Cusco, visit a Choco Museum and explore the local food market.
Cusco City Tour and Market Visit
Cusco
Live like a local today and enjoy a unique tour of Cusco. Start the day with a visit to the Choco Museum and enjoy some tasty samples and chocolatey drinks. Afterwards, explore old Cusco and discover the history of this Incan city. Finally wander the food stalls in San Pedro Market.
Free Time
Cusco Afternoon
Spend more time getting to know this fascinating city and surrounding area. Free time is yours to explore any way you want. (Breakfast)
Travel by van to Ollantaytambo to catch the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.
Private Vehicle
Cusco - Ollantaytambo 1h45m 94km
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private ride.
Train
Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes 1h30m
Climb aboard, take your seat, and enjoy the ride. (Breakfast)
Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Rise early to catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu with the guide. Enjoy a guided visit of the ruins followed by free time to explore. When ready, head back down by bus to Aguas Calientes to meet up with the rest of the group and take a train back to Cusco.
Local bus
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu 30m
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Machu Picchu 1h30m-2h
Rise and shine - the best time to see the Lost City of the Incas is in the early morning light. Follow the local guide to Machu Picchu to learn about its history at a leisurely pace. Gain local insight into the Inti Mach'ay cave, Inti Watana, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Water, the Temple of the Condor, and the Room of the Three Windows. Take time to sit and feel the energy of this 15th century site, now both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (in a worldwide Internet poll).
Train
Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo 1h30m-2h 118km
Climb aboard, take your seat, and enjoy the ride.
Private Vehicle
Ollantaytambo - Cusco 2h
Stretch out and scan the scenery from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Opt to visit the Inca Bridge before returning to Cusco in the evening.
Optional Activities
Inca Bridge Visit
Machu Picchu
Use any leftover energy from your Machu Picchu hike to visit the Inca Bridge site nearby (thought by some to be a secret back entrance to Machu Picchu). Trek up to the bridge that's cleaving to a 579m (1,900 ft) cliff, and soak in amazing views of cloud forest along the way. (Breakfast)
Free day to explore more of Cusco or just relax.
Free Time
Cusco Full Day
Get out there and see it all - or just chill out to your heart's content.
Optional Activities
Horseback Riding
Cusco
Hop in the saddle and explore Cusco's archaeological sites by horseback on a 3.5 hr tour - no previous experience needed. Dress for the weather, and bring sunblock and a hat, just in case.
Mountain Biking
Cusco
Take to two wheels and head out into the hills around Cusco for some nature-meets-adrenaline fun. Try a trip to the Sacred Valley, perhaps, visiting an Inca ruin along the way.
Whitewater Rafting Urubamba
Urubamba
Rise for an early morning pick up and drive to Chuquicahuana for a safety briefing. Enjoy a full day of rafting on the Upper Vilcanota River (about 2.5 hrs on the water). Be thrilled by fast rapids that are a constant Class III and IV for around 11km (9 mi), and don't forget to take in the gorgeous scenery. Rehash all the excitement afterward over a riverside picnic lunch. (Breakfast)
Travel through the high Altiplano region to travel to Puno on Lake Titicaca.
Local bus
Cusco - Puno 7h30m 390km
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Overnight in Puno Breakfast (Breakfast)
Guided tour of Lake Titicaca with a homestay in a local village.
Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on Taquile Island and enjoy a local lunch with spectacular views.
After, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake (the homestay location can vary based on community availability). This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quecha and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village.
Boat
Puno - Isla Amantani 3h
Climb aboard and get your float on.
Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 1
Lago Titicaca
Board a boat on Lake Titicaca and head to Taquile Island for a delicious Peruvian lunch at a restaurant followed by some shopping at the local weaving cooperatives. (Taquilenos are known for their fine handwoven textiles and clothing, men are taught how to knit around age five and they create the majority of the textiles.) After, visit Amantani for an overnight stay with a host family and a chance to learn about life on the island.
Lake Titicaca Homestay
Lago Titicaca
Accommodation on the islands may be multi-share. (Breakfast,Dinner)
Visit the floating islands of Uros. Leave the homestay families late morning, and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away.
Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 2
Lago Titicaca
Spend the morning with the homestay families on Amantani, then depart after lunch. Visit the floating islands of Uros on the way back, and learn about the unique lifestyle of the locals. Meet residents and learn how they built the islands with totora reeds, which are also used to make their homes, boats, crafts (and are also edible!).
Optional visit to the Sillustani burial site.
Optional Activities
Sillustani Burial Towers Tour
Puno
Take a guided tour of the Sillustani burial towers known as "chullpas." Be awed by these fantastic ruins located outside Puno - their remarkable towers stretch up to 12m (39 ft) in height.
Free Time
Puno Afternoon
Make the most of one last afternoon in Puno. (Lunch,Breakfast)
Cross over into Bolivia for a night out in the highest city of the trip. Oxygen bar anyone?
Enjoy a full-day drive around the lake and through the Altiplano to La Paz. Bolivia is filled with spectacular views of the countryside.
La Paz sits nearly 4,000m (13,120 ft) above sea level, so be prepared for cool evenings and mornings.
Local bus
Puno - Yunguyo 2h30m 300km
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Border Crossing (Peru - Bolivia)
Desaguadero
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Local bus
Copacabana - La Paz 3h
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride. (Breakfast)
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure. (None (Meals on your own))
As per itinerary - B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals
In our continued effort to support the rights of the porters on the Inca Trail, we would like ensure that they never exceed the weight limit for their packs as set out by the Peruvian authorities. Porters are allowed to carry no more than 6kg of personal belongings per hiker (for all other Peru treks the limit is 8kg). That means that including your sleeping bag, toiletries, clothing, etc, you are allowed a total weight of 6kg for the hike which will be carried in a duffle bag provided by our local office. Any additional weight must then be carried by you in your day pack. To help achieve this goal we recommend that you carry travel sized toiletries, that you bring sport sandals that can be worn with socks (which are lighter than running/walking shoes) and that you limit electronics to those that you are willing to carry. Any additional baggage can be left in Cusco, but is advised that you bring anything of value (eg. money, passport, credit cards, camera, etc) with you on the trek.
If at the end of your trek you felt your trekking guide and support team did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline, we suggest each hiker contributes the following to a collective pool. We suggest a tipping amount of $40 per person for the Inca Trail and $35 per person for the Lares Trek.
