Trip code: GGSEC
Countries experienced: Peru
Price From: R 30 145 Land Only
Marvel at Machu Picchu and the Amazon in incredible Peru
Travel from the heady heights of the Andes to the exotic lowlands of the Amazon on this journey through the best of Peru. Get acquainted with the charm and grace of historic towns before hiking along ancient pathways to Machu Picchu and discovering the heart and soul of the Inca Empire. Then eyeball exotic plant and wildlife in the world's most remarkable jungle. From vibrant cities to glorious natural wonders, this trip shows you all corners of Peru.
Day 1 Lima
Get acquainted with Peruvian culture on a guided walking tour that takes in the sights and delights of this irrepressible capital.
Day 2 Cuzco
Experience the city's intriguing blend of Inca and Spanish cultures, and discover some of Cuzco's lesser-known sights on a guided walking tour. Take the opportunity to taste unique mate de coca (coca tea).
Day 3 Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo
Travel through the lush Sacred Valley and visit a local community. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, browse handicrafts and pick up a few words of the Quechua language.
Look out for the maize crops alongside the river and that cover the terraces stretching high up the valley walls. Spend the night exploring the Ollantaytambo ruins – a magnificent example of Inca urban planning.
Days 4-7 Inca Trail/Machu Picchu/Cuzco
Trek the Inca trail that once linked this ancient Peruvian empire. The ancient path winds around mountains, across high, rocky plateaux, through dense cloud forest and past crumbling temple ruins.
Climb over challenging mountain peaks – including the 4,198 m high Warmiwanusca (Dead Woman's Pass) – and camp out in the evenings. On the final morning, climb the steps to Intipunku, the 'Sun Gate', and see mystical Machu Picchu appearing through the mist.
Rest for a moment to take it all in, then descend to this famous site to spend the day uncovering the mystery of these amazing Inca ruins before returning to Cuzco.
Day 8 Cuzco
Still seeking adventure? Why not head to the Urubamba River for some whitewater rafting or mountain biking thrills.
Days 9-10 Amazon Jungle
Travel up river in a motorised canoe to an eco-friendly jungle lodge. Fall asleep to a chorus of nocturnal creatures and wake to exotic birdcalls.
Experience Cuzco's Inca culture
Be amazed by the Ollantaytambo ruins
Wander the markets of Lima
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Explore the mysterious rainforest of the Amazon
Accommodation: Hotel (6nts), Camping (3nts), Eco Lodge (2nts)
Meals included: 11 Breakfast, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Airport arrival transfer included
Single supplement available if you would like your own room
Minimum group size of 4 travellers for custom departure (join our group departures if your party is less than 4)
Inca Trail permits are sold on request basis only. Once deposit is paid and passport details provided, we will endeavour to secure a permit for you. If Inca Trail permits are unavailable by the time you book, you can opt to hike the Inca Quarry Trail instead.
Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy your holiday. On Day 2 of the Inca Trail or Quarry Trek you will be walking uphill from 3000 to 4500 metres above sea level before descending steeply through big steps and difficult terrain. While this demanding walk is the main challenge our passengers face on this trip, it's also one of the highlights and worth every minute of it.
Take a guided walk through the jungle with a local guide and learn about the Amazon's exotic wildlife and indigenous inhabitants, as well as the medicinal properties and practical uses of native jungle plants.
Days 11-12 Lima
Leave the amazing Amazon behind and return to Puerto Maldonado, where a flight will take the group back to Lima. The trip ends here but there's plenty still to discover in Peru's intriguing capital, so perhaps plan to spend a few extra days exploring the sights.