Holiday in Peru & Inca Trail
| country: | Peru |
| location: | Inca Trail, Machu Picchu |
| trip type: | Moderate walking holidays |
| departures: | 2009: 12 Dec 2010: 27 Mar, 24 Apr, 15 May, 22 May, 11 Jun, 26 Jun, 10 Jul, 24 Jul, 7 Aug, 21 Aug, 4 Sep, 18 Sep, 25 Sep, 18 Dec 2011: 26 Mar, 23 Apr, 14 May, 21 May, 11 Jun, 25 Jun, 9 Jul, 23 Jul, 6 Aug, 20 Aug, 3 Sep, 17 Sep, 24 Sep |
| price: | From £2569 - £3049 (22 days) including flights from the UK. From £1599 - £1949 excluding flights. Local payment $400 USD. |
| offers: | Permits for the Inca Trail ran our earlier than ever last year. We advise booking early for 2010. Book by 23rd December and get £50 off per person. |
| vouchers: | Gift vouchers can be used with this holiday |
read 3 travellers reviews
the amazing things you'll be doing
A complete journey through southern Peru. Follow the desert coastline from Lima to the Ballestas Islands and on to the mysterious and unexplained Nazca Lines. Colonial Arequipa reveals the harshness of convent life, while condors soar in the Colca Canyon. On to Lake Titicaca – the fabled birth place of the Incas - and the fascinating Inca sites at Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The finale is the spectacular Inca Trail to the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Coast, Condors & Lake Titicaca
Following the desert coastline from Lima, you visit the Ballestas Islands with their prolific seabirds and further south, wonder at the mysterious and unexplained Nazca Lines. An exploration of colonial Arequipa reveals the harshness of convent life, followed by a spectacular drive over the Andes to watch condors soar in the Colca Canyon. Then you’ll journey to Lake Titicaca – the fabled birth place of the Incas.
Cusco & Inca Trail Trek
Crossing the high altiplano you descend into the Sacred Valley and explore its profusion of Inca sites - before embarking on the spectacular Inca Trail to the fascinating ruins of Machu Picchu. You’ll finally take the train back to Cusco where you can relax and reflect on your journey of a lifetime!
Coast, Condors & Lake Titicaca
Following the desert coastline from Lima, you visit the Ballestas Islands with their prolific seabirds and further south, wonder at the mysterious and unexplained Nazca Lines. An exploration of colonial Arequipa reveals the harshness of convent life, followed by a spectacular drive over the Andes to watch condors soar in the Colca Canyon. Then you’ll journey to Lake Titicaca – the fabled birth place of the Incas.
Cusco & Inca Trail Trek
Crossing the high altiplano you descend into the Sacred Valley and explore its profusion of Inca sites - before embarking on the spectacular Inca Trail to the fascinating ruins of Machu Picchu. You’ll finally take the train back to Cusco where you can relax and reflect on your journey of a lifetime!
day-by-day itinerary
| Day 1: | Fly To Lima After your flight you transfer to your hotel in Lima and check in. Hotel – 1 night |
| Day 2: | Paracas Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, Lima was the principal city of Spanish South America for three centuries until independence swept the continent. This morning your local guide will show you something of the bustling old city, with its impressive colonial architecture. The Presidential Palace stands, like the cathedral, on the great central square of the Plaza de Armas, on the site of Pizarro’s house. Later you visit the breathtaking collection of gold and silver artefacts at the Gold Museum, before starting your afternoon drive south on the Pan-American Highway along the Pacific coast for 3 ½ hours to reach the small fishing village of Paracas. Here you settle into your beachfront hotel and enjoy a sunset over the calm Paracas Bay. Hotel - 1 night (B) |
| Day 3: | Huacachina Boarding your boat early this morning, you embark on a sea trip to visit the spectacular Ballestas Islands. Here thousands of seabirds wheel around the skies, and pelicans jostle with basking sea lion on rocky ledges - a truly unforgettable experience. Returning to Paracas you have an opportunity to explore the Paracas Nature Reserve where flamingos can be seen wading in the shallows. After lunch (not included) you take a short drive of one hour to Ica, where you can taste local wines and visit the excellent regional museum. You stay tonight at the atmospheric oasis of Huacachina, set on a tiny lagoon amidst palm trees and high sand dunes. Hotel - 1 night (B) |
| Day 4: | Nazca The adventurous may opt to hit the dunes today, either trying their hand at dune boarding or buzzing around on a dune buggy. Back on the vehicle, the Panamericana continues south through fields of cotton and oranges to the flat and stony pampa of Nazca, where after two hours you pause to view the mysterious lines etched into the desert floor many centuries ago. To fully appreciate the geometric designs and images of birds and animals, you can take an optional flight in a light aircraft to see them from above. Despite years of research and conjecture on how and why they were made, their purpose remains unexplained. Hotel - 1 night |
| Day 5: | Arequipa You spend much of today travelling (about 10 hours in all), through some spectacular scenery. The road follows rocky coastline past surf-lashed beaches before turning inland. As you climb away from the coast, a group of volcanic mountains heralds your arrival in Arequipa (2400m). This colonial city stands in a warm and sunny climate overlooked by the perfect, snow-draped cone of El Misti (5882m). Its fine buildings, constructed in distinctive local stone, are built to resist the ever-present threat of earthquakes. Arriving in the late afternoon you have the evening free to savour the atmosphere of the beautiful arcades of the plaza. Hotel - 2 nights |
| Day 6: | Arequipa Today you spend a full day in the city. You visit the walled enclosure of the Convento de Santa Catalina - a miniature town occupying an entire block and which remained isolated from the rest of the city until 1970. Nowadays it provides a fascinating record of ecclesiastical life in bygone days. In the afternoon, there is time to explore the city further; perhaps an optional visit to the museum of Andean Sanctuaries whose highlights include the extraordinary ice mummies found atop some of Arequipa’s numerous surrounding volcanoes is highly recommended. (B) |
| Day 7: | Colca Canyon Leaving the city of Arequipa, you begin the four-hour drive to the staggering Colca Canyon. In the national reserve of Pampa Canahuas you may see groups of vicunas - the rarest and most timid of the American cameloids. As you descend, you take a short side route to the largely unvisited village of Canocota. From here a three-hour walk follows the rim of the upper canyon, allowing you spectacular views of the river below. The walk ends at the thermal springs of La Calera where you can enjoy the piping hot waters (optional) before boarding the vehicle for the short trip to the village of Chivay (3600m) where you stay. Hotel - 2 nights (B) |
| Day 8: | Colca Canyon Leaving Chivay early, you drive about 1 ½ hours to the viewpoint at Cruz del Condor where you find the ideal spot to peer 1200m down to the floor of the canyon. It’s here that the legendary condor can be seen rising and circling on the morning thermals, silhouetted against the magnificent backdrop of the mountain scenery. The canyon is of mythical proportions; controversy still rages over whether or not this is the world’s deepest! In some parts it is more than 1km from cliff edge to river bottom. During the return journey to Chivay you visit the picturesque villages of Maca and Yanque with their Baroque-fronted churches overlooking quiet plazas. After lunch in Chivay, you can try a two-hour walk on the lesser-visited northern rim of the canyon, close to the village of Coporaque. Here you may enjoy distinct views of the canyon and visit the Huari ruins of Ullo Ullo. (B) |
| Day 9: | Puno A spectacular and literally breathtaking journey, (about five hours driving time), over the high pass of Patapampa (4900m) offers spectacular views of the volcanoes of Ampato, Hualca Hualca and the smoking Sabancaya. Travelling over the high plains, or altiplano of southern Peru, you see yet more herds of llamas and alpacas before arriving at the eerie ruins of Sillustani. The site comprises several curious stone burial towers built by the 15th century Colla tribe which overlook the primeval landscape in a brooding, sinister fashion. After exploring this site you reach the town of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. At this altitude the sun is very hot in the daytime but temperatures at night can drop below freezing in the winter months of June, July and August. Hotel - 1 night (B) |
| Day 10: | Amantani Island A short drive to the port brings you to the shores of the lake. At this altitude (3850m), the air is thin and clear and the glistening icecaps of a cordon of Andean peaks seem close. You sail to Amantani via the floating reed islands of the Uros Indians. The life of the Uros is based on the tortora reed, which grows in the lake and is used to construct their houses and boats. You spend around four hours sailing between islands and marvelling at the views across this vast body of water. The island of Amantani has six tiny villages and carefully maintained terraced fields where life continues much as it has done for centuries. It is well worth climbing to the island’s highest point for sunset. Spending the night in a village house affords a very special insight to the lives of the islanders. Rustic village house - 1 night (B) |
| Day 11: | Taquile Island & Puno Travelling by boat you cross over to Taquile Island where you glimpse an age-old way of life with rich traditions of weaving, music and dance. The local style of dress echoes that worn in colonial times. The beautiful weaving and knitting here is famous and available for sale in the crafts co-operative. Boarding the boat you make the pleasant return trip across the lake to Puno. Hotel - 1 night (B) |
| Day 12: | Cusco An early start today as you take a shared tourist bus across dusty altiplano, dotted with llama, alpaca and the simple adobe dwellings of local herders. Once over the pass at La Raya (4321m) the scenery changes. The fertile valleys are still worked by beast or groups of industrious villagers; their timeless agricultural methods prove the value of the knowledge of long ago. You have the opportunity to stop at several places of interest along the way including La Raya pass and the Inca ruins of Racchi and Pucara (about seven hours drive). Alternatively you may prefer the option of making this classic journey by rail (additional cost) taking you through the same spectacular scenery in the comfort of Orient Express carriages. In the evening you arrive in Cusco, the seat of Inca rule for some 500 years. Hotel - 1 night (B) |
| Day 13: | The Sacred Valley You spend this morning exploring the vast fortress of Sacsayhuaman. The skilfully constructed outer walls consist of massive blocks of stone, the largest weighing over 350 tonnes. Close by you also visit some of Cusco’s outlying Inca sites – Q’enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambo Machay. A short drive of about 30 minutes brings you to Pisac where the local Thursday market fills the main plaza with bustle and brightly-coloured costume. Sitting high above the town perch the ruins of Pisac with sweeping terraces and spectacular views. After a 40-minute drive through the heart of the valley you arrive in Yucay your base for the next two nights. Hotel - 2 nights (B) |
| Day 14: | The Sacred Valley The Sacred Valley was the heartland of the Inca Empire; full of farmer’s fields, mountain views and quiet rural charm; you have the whole day to enjoy its delights. There is plenty to do in the valley; you can take to mountain bikes for a stunning ride from Chinchero via the Inca ruins of Moray before descending past the salt pans of Maras; alternatively you can explore on horseback or go white water rafting on the Urubamba River, stretch your legs with some stunning walking or relax and enjoy the peace (all optional). (B) |
| Day 15: | Inca Trail Driving along the valley, you pass many buildings that show the highly developed organisation of the Inca; nowhere more so than the terraced complex of temple, fortress and granary at Ollantaytambo, guarding the entrance to the Urubamba Gorge. At Chilca, where the gorge narrows, you meet your guide and crew and start the trek. Stretching your legs you follow the Urubamba riverbank below the snow-capped peak of Mt. Veronica. After lunch you head away from the river; a gentle climb soon brings you to a pleasant campsite at Llactapata (2850 m). You carry only a daypack as a team of porters carries all other equipment. You camp in tents and your porters take care of all camp chores with the assistance of a cook and helper. A mess tent and a toilet tent are provided at camp. About 4/5 hrs easy walking today. Camp - 1 night (BLD) |
| Day 16: | Inca Trail You are woken with a hot drink and a bowl of warm water at your tent. Getting into a good walking rhythm you follow the course of the Cusichaca River, ascending a broad valley to the village of Wayllabamba (‘Grassy Plain’ - 3,000m), the last human habitation on the trail. Your porters go ahead and prepare your lunch. After pausing to rest, you climb steadily and steeply to Llulluchupampa (3680 m) - a beautiful flat area of pasture. About 5/6 hrs moderate uphill walking. Camp – 1 night (BLD) |
| Day 17: | Inca Trail The tough day! An initial steep climb takes you across the highest point on the trail at Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass - 4200m); the views back along the valley certainly make the climb worthwhile. You descend to the Pacamayo River and a second ascent leads to Runkuracay Pass (3998m) - from here on the trail is largely downhill and you encounter the first long stretches of original Inca paving which makes for easier going. You cross the Aobamba River below Sayacmarca ruins, high on a rocky spur. After a final easy ascent, with spectacular views over the Urubamba valley far below, you emerge above Phuyupatamarca ruins.About 7/8 hrs moderate and demanding walking. Camp – 1 night (BLD) |
| Day 18: | Machu Picchu You awake to a spectacular vista and set off this morning on one of the most beautiful parts of the trail. A steep downhill section of some 2000 Inca steps brings you to your lunch stop at the picturesque ruins of Winay Wayna – meaning ´forever young` - considered by many to be their favourite ruins. Excitement mounts as you conquer a steep flight of steps and arrive at Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. The toil of the day is forgotten at a stroke as you are treated to a spectacular view of Machu Picchu below. After lingering to admire the panorama, you walk through the site and catch a bus down the narrow access road to rejoin the Urubamba River in the village of Aguas Calientes where you check in to your accommodation and enjoy a well-earned long shower. About 4/5 hrs walking today, mostly downhill. Basic Hotel – 1 night (BL) |
| Day 19: | Machu Picchu & Cusco Rising early this morning your group has Machu Picchu ruins largely to itself before the train brings in day-visitors from Cusco. The magnificent lost city, rediscovered by American archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911, stands on a high saddle dominated by the jungle-clad peak of Wayna Picchu. You have time to make the vertiginous climb to its summit for dramatic views of the city spread out below or simply just wander the myriad of steps and stairways of the site, revealing as they do a vast complex of immense structural, historical and archaeological worth. Later in the day you catch the train back to Cusco. Hotel - 2 nights (B) |
| Day 20: | Cusco A walking orientation tour this morning reveals more of Cusco’s historical and archaeological treasures. The imperial city was laid out in the rough shape of a puma. Today, its orderly streets bear witness to the extraordinary skill of Inca stonemasons; many are still lined with precisely interlocked stonework which serves as the foundation for later buildings from the colonial era, creating an atmospheric pastiche of contrasting architectural styles. With your local guide, you explore the inner city on foot. The rest of the day is free to relax. (B) |
| Day 21-22: | Lima/ Fly to London You catch a morning flight back down to Lima on the coast. The remainder of the day is free for further exploration and shopping before the trip ends for Land Only clients and those on group flights to the UK catch your evening flight to London. Hotel (day use only) (B) |
| Day 23-25: | Optional Amazon jungle extension Day 1-20 As per main itinerary Day 21 A short flight brings you to Puerto Maldonado, in the jungle on a tributary of the Amazon. You transfer to motorised launch for the hour long trip up the Tambopata River to your lodge. There is a short introductory jungle walk of about 50 minutes to reach an ox-bow lake before crossing it to arrive at the lodge. After sunset you board your canoe once again for a short night ride to spot cayman by torchlight. Lodge - 3 nights (BLD) Please note: Due to availability we may use alternative Amazon lodges, whilst the nature of activities will be roughly the same the journey times may vary. Day 22/23: Over the next two days you are accompanied by resident naturalist guides on a number of fascinating excursions. Exploring by foot and in canoes you quickly become aware of how extraordinarily diverse the rainforest ecosystem is - well over 500 birds and 1000 butterflies have been recorded, in addition to the rich plant and mammalian life. A network of well-marked trails extend from the lodge and the oxbow lake itself, home to giant otters, gives the opportunity to paddle its tranquil waters by canoe in order to quietly observe wildlife on the shore. The lodge itself comprises several thatched roof bungalows around a central dining area and is co-owned by the local community and a conservation organisation. Each room has en suite facilities and electricity. (Bx2, Lx2, Dx2) Day 24: Bidding farewell to the jungle, you return to Puerto Maldonado by riverboat in the early morning to catch a flight back to Lima. On arrival you transfer to your hotel, after which the remainder of the day is free. The trip ends for Land Only clients. Those with our onward flights will transfer to the airport to catch your late evening flight. Hotel (day use only) (B) Day 25: Arrive London |
travellers' tales
As each day passed it became my favourite day so far! The Inca Trail of course and the island home stay have to be my top two. The holiday was made all the more memorable because of the great group we were travelling with and of course our guide Dante.
(more)
avoid disappointment - book your Inca Trail holiday in time
In the last few years, the Peruvian government has imposed increasing restrictions on tourism on the Inca Trail in order to protect it from overuse. The aim is to minimise ecological impact and erosion, mainly by having limited access and improving the quality of the operators. There are now only a very limited number of trekking permits available - 500 per day (around 200 for travellers and the rest for staff) - and they are being issued on a first-come-first-served basis. In order to avoid disappointment we recommend booking well in advance (up to a minimum of 3 months in peak season), unless you are extremely flexible over your travel dates.small group adventure holiday
Typically you will be sharing your experiences with between 4-20 like minded travellers (depending on the trip, operator and how many others are booked on the trip) and you'll have a group leader with you. Whether you are travelling alone or with friends its good value, and a great way to meet new people! While itineraries are pre-planned there is some flexibility and you'll have plenty of privacy. This trip will appeal to travellers of all ages who enjoy meeting new people as well as seeing new places. how this holiday makes a difference
|
On this trip: Our policy of staying in locally owned accommodation, having local guides and group leaders and using transport owned and operated by local people wherever possible is continued in Peru. We also have a homestay with Titicaca's island indians in their rustic homes, allowing real local contact. Our small groups (maximum of 16 people) have a minimal impact on the fragile environment. All tour guides are responsible for ensuring that the guests understand the nature of the environment that they are in and minimise the impact that they may have. We collect and dispose of all litter, boil all drinking water instead of using bottled water, and use responsible cooking fuels (kerosene) instead of wood. There is a 20kg weight limit for porters, who are now supplied with tents, food and rainwear.
Our Responsible Travel Code: Clients who travel with us will automatically receive a copy of our Responsible Travel leaflet. This contains details and advice on how you can make a positive difference when you travel. If you would like a copy in advance of travel please contact us. Charity Partnerships: We work in partnership with Plan International. Plan works with some of the world’s poorest communities where three out of four children die before the age of five. We also support Friends of Conservation – an international charity committed to working with local people to develop a balance between their needs and the wildlife with which they share the natural habitat and ecosystems. Carbon Balancing: Global warming is a real issue and is a direct result of your travel. We have teamed up with Climate Care to give you the opportunity to offset the carbon emissions from your flight. You’ll be asked upon booking if you want to donate – with set amounts from £5. As a company we offset the carbon emissions from all staff travel in full. Our Foundation: We’ve highlighted a few of the ways in which we offer our support, financially or otherwise, and now you can, too. We have set up our own foundation, which will administer funds donated by you. A small donation of £1 per person will be taken when booking a holiday and that money will be put to good use by one of our carefully selected projects. If you don’t want to make the donation, just tell us when you book. |
Tourism can be good and bad for destinations & local people. We carefully screen every holiday against our criteria for responsible travel. 'Look behind the brochure' to find how each holiday makes a difference (see left). We don't claim to be perfect - there is no global accreditation - but we've led the way since 2001 and screened 1000's of holidays. We invite every traveller to write a review about their experiences and responsible tourism. This valuable feedback is sent to the people who run the holidays. We keep a very close eye on it and take off holidays that don't live up to our standards. |