13 Day itinerary in Peru, South America
Embark on a thrilling 13-day journey through Peru, combining an awe-inspiring trek to the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu with an immersive exploration of the Amazon Jungle. Experience the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru, from the historical streets of Cusco to the vibrant e... Read More
Trek to the stunning Inca ruins of Machu Picchu
Experience the breathtaking Amazon jungle
Visit Cuzco, the capital of the old Inca Empire
Get immersed in indigenous cultuure
Trek to the stunning Inca ruins of Machu Picchu
Experience the breathtaking Amazon jungle
Visit Cuzco, the capital of the old Inca Empire
Get immersed in indigenous cultuure
Mid-Range ($$)
Accommodation Categories
Arrival in Cusco - Gateway to the Incan Empire
Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Take your time to acclimate to the high altitude of 3,450 meters and explore the blend of Incan and colonial architecture, visiting the city's ancient temples and Baroque churches.
Accommodation:
ATV Quad Bike Adventure to Maras and Moray
Experience an adrenaline-pumping ATV quad bike tour through the Sacred Valley. Visit Cruz Pata village, then ride to Moray to marvel at the Incan circular terraces. Continue to the Salineras salt mines to observe traditional salt extraction. Finish the adventure with a return to Cusco, and attend a mandatory trek briefing in the afternoon.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Cusco to Wayllabamba Camp
Your day starts early with accommodation pick-up between 05:00-06:00 hrs, after making all the necessary preparations the day before. You'll be transported by bus to Ollantaytambo, where you'll have an hour to enjoy breakfast independently and purchase last-minute essentials like snacks, water, and walking sticks. Following this, you'll continue on the bus to Piscacucho (KM 82), the starting point of the Inca Trail.
Here, you'll need your original passport and, if applicable, a student card for the first Inca Trail checkpoint, where your guide will provide your tickets. The trek begins along the rolling hills of the Vilcanota River Valley, passing by several small archaeological sites. Midway through the day's hike, lunch will be served, and you'll have time to rest before completing the journey to Wayllabamba camp, situated at an elevation of 2,980 meters.
The trekking for the day covers 10 kilometers over approximately 6 hours, featuring a moderate difficulty level as you ascend gradually from Piscacucho KM 82 (2,570m) through the Urubamba river valley, reaching Wayllabamba Camp (2,980m). This day provides a fantastic introduction to the Inca Trail, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Andes and enriched with cultural heritage.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Wayllabamba Camp to Pacaymayo Camp via Dead Woman's Pass
Rise early for breakfast at 6:00 am to prepare for the most challenging part of the trail. Your journey begins with a strenuous 6 km uphill trek, approximately 5 hours, to the apex of Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 meters. Here, you'll confront a significant elevation gain of over 1,200 meters. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to absorb the breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls.
After crossing the pass, embark on a 3 km descent down ancient stone steps to Pacaymayo Camp, situated at 3,600 meters, which will take around 2 hours. This part of the trek allows you to unwind and enjoy the magnificent landscape. Arrive at the camp in time for lunch, followed by a well-earned rest. The afternoon is yours to relax and savour the serene environment before enjoying dinner and settling in for an early night.
Trekking Details:
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Pacaymayo Camp to Wiñayhuayna Camp via Runquracay Pass
Begin the day with a one-hour ascent to explore the Pacaymayo archaeological site. Following this, you'll trek for another hour to reach the summit of Runquracay Pass at 3,950 meters, where you can enjoy expansive views of the Andean peaks. The day's journey continues as you visit two additional archaeological sites, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, delving deeper into Incan history with your guide. Lunch will be provided during this leg of the trek.
In the late afternoon, you'll arrive at Wiñayhuayna High Jungle camp, situated at 2,650 meters in a lush, high jungle climate, perched above a river valley. This evening offers a heartfelt opportunity to express your gratitude to the dedicated porters and guides. Enjoy your dinner amidst the tranquil ambiance of the high jungle before resting for the night.
Trekking Details:
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Trek to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate
Start your day early, waking up between 3:30 and 4:30 am for breakfast before heading out to the Wiñaywayna checkpoint. You'll be among the first to line up for the gate's opening at 5:30 am, setting the stage for an unforgettable moment. The trek to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) takes about an hour, where, weather permitting, you'll witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating Machu Picchu—a truly mesmerizing sight.
After soaking in the views from the Sun Gate, continue your descent for approximately 40 minutes to enter the Machu Picchu archaeological complex itself. Embark on a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour to uncover the mysteries and marvel at the ingenuity of this Incan citadel. Post-tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore the site at your own pace, capturing memories with your camera.
For those seeking extra adventure, consider the optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which must be arranged in advance due to limited availability. Conclude your day by returning to Aguas Calientes to catch the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a bus will take you back to Cusco, arriving by approximately 8:30 pm, where you'll be dropped off at Plaza San Francisco.
Trekking Details:
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Transfer from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado
Spend your day enjoying the vibrant city of Cusco at your leisure. Take the opportunity to delve deeper into its rich heritage and culture. Explore popular landmarks as well as hidden gems including the Qoricancha temple, bustling San Pedro market, the historic main square, the intricately carved 12 Angled Stone, lively Regocijo Square, and the artistic San Blas Square.
In the evening, around 8:00 pm, you will be escorted to the local bus station where you'll embark on an overnight journey to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon. A guide will provide you with the necessary bus tickets, ensuring a smooth transition to the next leg of your adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Journey Into the Amazon Jungle
Upon arriving in Puerto Maldonado, you will begin your foray into the Amazon Jungle. Lodge staff will assist you in preparing a small duffle bag with essential clothing and items for your three-day jungle adventure, allowing you to store any unnecessary luggage. Then, embark on a thrilling ride by private vehicle to the river's edge, where a motorized canoe awaits to take you deep into the heart of the Amazon.
The voyage to your eco-lodge in the Madre de Dios region is an adventure in itself, lasting between one and three hours based on the lodge's specific location. During this journey, immerse yourself in the lush surroundings while enjoying a packed lunch provided for the trip.
Upon arrival, you'll settle into your thatched-roof lodge, nestled within the vibrant ecosystem of the Amazon. An orientation walk and briefing will introduce you to the local environment, preparing you for the upcoming explorations. The evening offers a chance to unwind, absorbing the unique sights and sounds of the jungle, setting the tone for your immersive experience in this biodiverse haven.
Note: The exact activities may vary slightly depending on your lodge's location. Whether your night excursion occurs tonight or the following evening, you're assured a consistent and enriching jungle experience, as all lodges share the same general area and access to the region's diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
In-Depth Exploration of the Amazon Jungle
Prepare yourself for a day filled with discovery in the Amazon Jungle. Embark on a half-day guided trek, where local experts will illuminate the diverse flora and fauna of the region. You'll gain insights into the traditional uses of various plants, knowledge passed down through generations of indigenous people.
As you traverse the jungle, be on the lookout for vibrant macaws and delicate butterflies. Listen for the distinct sounds of peccaries and the lively chatter of monkeys, indicative of the jungle's rich biodiversity. The Amazon here is home to an array of wildlife, including capybaras, giant otters, and jabirus, offering potential sightings of these remarkable creatures.
After your trek, return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and some leisure time to unwind or further explore the lodge's surroundings. As evening falls, engage in a night walk—a unique opportunity to experience the jungle's nocturnal life, revealing a different side of the Amazon as you search for its elusive nighttime creatures.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Continued Exploration of the Amazon Jungle
Your adventure in the Amazon Jungle extends into another day, brimming with opportunities to delve deeper into this enchanting environment. Under the guidance of a local expert, you'll decide on the day's activities, tailoring your experience to explore more facets of the jungle's intricate ecosystem.
Whether it's embarking on another trek to uncover hidden wonders, canoeing through tranquil waters to observe aquatic life, or visiting a local community to understand their connection with this vast green world, your day is set to be filled with engaging and educational experiences.
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge, and then set out on your chosen activities, immersing yourself in the lush landscape and vibrant wildlife. Lunch will be served back at the lodge, offering a moment to relax and reflect on your morning discoveries. The afternoon presents more opportunities for exploration or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the jungle.
As dusk falls, gather for dinner with your fellow adventurers, sharing stories and experiences from the day. The Amazon's ever-present symphony of sounds will serenade you as you prepare for another night in this unique and biodiverse haven.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Transfer to Cuzco
Enjoy a morning meal before embarking on a boat ride back to the city, where you’ll retrieve your primary luggage. Following this, we will ensure you are conveniently transferred to the bus station. As evening falls, you will board the 9:00 pm overnight coach destined for Cuzco.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Half-Day Expedition to Explore Cuzco's Ancient Ruins
Upon your early morning arrival in Cuzco at approximately 7:00 am, proceed to your hotel at your leisure for some deserved rest. In the afternoon, at 2:00 pm, you will embark on a journey back in time with a visit to the remarkable “Inca Ceremonial Center of Sacsayhuaman”. Towering over the city, this architectural marvel boasts massive stone blocks that interlock with seamless precision. Legend has it that the construction was accomplished by 10,000 workers over 50 years. Its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, but historians often credit its creation to the era of the Inca ruler Pachacutec.
The journey continues to the enigmatic site of “Qenqo”, with its labyrinthine underground passages and serpentine rock channels, echoing the ancient Inca's mummification rituals performed on the carved stone altar within. The exploration will move forward to “Tambomachay”, a sanctuary dedicated to the worship of water, believed to be used for ritual bathing by the Inca. The final stop is “PucaPucará”, a site of military ruins, once a defensive complex of the city.
As the day unfolds, you will unravel the mysteries of these sacred Inca ceremonial sites before winding your way back to the embrace of Cuzco.
Accommodation:
Airport Departure Day
Today marks the conclusion of your journey as you prepare for your return. A transfer will be arranged to smoothly convey you to the airport for your flight to Lima. From there, you’ll connect with your international departure. We wish you a journey filled with peaceful reflections of your time spent here. Bon voyage!
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Meals
Transport
Activities
Extras
Not Included
TEAM LEAD
Hiking
Rafting
Visit markets
Meet local people
Rural home stays
Indigenous culture
Historic & cultural landmarks
Outdoors & Nature
Classic Sights
Food & Drink
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$2,612 USD