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Peregrine Travel Centre

Peru Essentials

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Peru Essentials

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Description

Explore this South American hotspot on an in-depth 21-day adventure. Setting off in the cultural capital of Lima, you’ll explore the mysterious desert drawings of Nazca, watch condors soaring the skies of Colca Canyon, and wander ancient temples, plazas and markets in Cusco. Then trek the legendary Inca Trail, visit the breathtaking Machu Picchu and get a feel for local life at a homestay on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Wrap up in the Bolivian city of La Paz and consider extending your stay to uncover a world of curative traditions in the Witches’ Market or take in the views from the urban cable car.

Trip Name
Peru Essentials
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
21
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • See the giant desert inscriptions of the Nazca Lines – one of Peru's greatest mysteries – up close on foot or treat yourself to a bird's eye view on a scenic flight.
  • Wake early and observe Andean condors taking to the sky during their morning routine as the sun rises in the spectacular Colca Canyon.
  • Visit Peru’s legendary Inca citadel: Machu Picchu. With three different options to choose from – the Inca Trail, Quarry Trail and scenic train – how you get there is up to you.
  • Experience an unforgettable night with a local family on the shores of Lake Titicaca and connect with centuries-old Indigenous traditions.
  • At Intrepid we’ve always been about balancing profit and purpose and as the largest B Corp certified operator on the Inca Trail we’re committed to operating our treks for the benefit of all – join us and help make the world a better place.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk., DEMONSTRATIONS & STRIKES: Demonstrations and protests, often in response to local labour or social issues, occur regularly in Peru. National strikes can be called at short notice and can cause disruption to road networks leading to inevitable itinerary changes. We will do everything possible for these changes to be at little or no extra cost; however in such circumstances we find that travellers may need to use their contingency funds to cover the costs of itinerary changes. , HEAVY RAIN ON THE INCA TRAIL If it rains heavily for a number of consecutive days, the terrain at the third campsite (Wiñaywayna) can become unstable, increasing the danger of landslides and making it unsafe to camp. This occurs mostly during the wet season (November to April) although it can also happen at any time of the year. Your trekking guide may assess that it's safer to spend the third night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), or if available, to camp at Puente Ruinas campsite. You may need to use your contingency funds to cover any additional costs. An letter can be provided for lodging a travel insurance claim for these costs.

Day 1 - Lima
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Lima, Peru's vibrant capital. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. With no activities planned until then, why not grab a Pisco sour in the Miraflores area or stroll to Parque del Amor (Love Park) for a great view of Lima's beaches? After, perhaps head out for dinner and get to know your group. Lima is the unofficial foodie capital of South America, so be sure to ask your local leader for their recommendations – and don't pass the chance to sample ceviche, Peru's national dish.
Day 2 - Lima
This morning, set out on a half-day walking tour of Lima's historic centre. Plaza Mayor is the place to begin exploring Lima – get a feel for local life as you explore streets lined with old mansions, palaces and churches. On one side of the plaza is the Cathedral of Lima, which houses the remains of Lima's founder, Francisco Pizarro. Nearby is the San Francisco Monastery, with its catacombs containing some 70,000 human remains. The tour wraps up in Lima's main square, with the rest of the day free to do as you wish. Maybe check out Lima's central market to taste fresh fruit and street food favourites.
Day 3 - Paracas
Be ready for an early start as you’ll head to Lima’s bus station around 6 am to board a local bus to Paracas. It's unlikely the bus will make any stops, so please ensure you prepare yourself with water, snacks and anything else you need. The small fishing town of Paracas is the gateway to the Islas Ballestas and the Paracas National Reserve – and you’ll have the option to visit the reserve with a local guide when you arrive. The tour lasts for around 2.5 hours and gives you a good introduction to the landscapes and wildlife. For dinner tonight, maybe head to the boulevard near the beach and don’t forget to try some tejas – small truffles filled with nuts and dried fruits from the Ica region.
Day 4 - Nazca
This morning, there may be a chance to visit Islas Ballestas for an optional day trip. Here, there’ll be lots of opportunities to see wildlife such as penguins, sea lions and flamingos from a speedboat. Speak to your group leader about your options. Later this morning, continue to Nazca where you’ll arrivie in the early afternoon. Nazca is famous for the Nazca Lines – enormous designs inscribed into the desert floor. Who drew them, how and why is unknown, but most scientists believe the Nazca people created them around 2000 years ago. For the best view, consider an optional scenic flight – this lasts 30 minutes and covers most of the 26 impressions. Be wary though – the planes turn sharply from side to side for viewing from both sides of the plane, so it’s not for the faint-hearted!
Day 5 - Arequipa
Enjoy a slow morning in Nazca, then head to the station to board a local bus to Arequipa – there are no stops, so don't forget to pack plenty of water, more snacks and a good book! You’ll arrive in Arequipa late in the evening and transfer to the hotel to check in. Standing at the foot of El Misti volcano, Arequipa vies with Cusco for the title of Peru's most attractive city. Depending on how you’re feeling, maybe go for a stroll around the town or grab a bite for dinner with the group.
Day 6 - Arequipa
This morning, head out on a leader-led orientation walk where you’ll visit the main square and Mercado San Camilo. As you explore Arequipa, you'll understand why it’s referred to as the ‘White City’ – built out of the pale volcanic rock, the old buildings shine brightly in the sunshine. The remainder of the day is free. Perhaps start at Monasterio de Santa Catalina – this 16th-century convent has a unique history, having once only accepted women from high-class Spanish families. From here, drop by the Juanita Museum and take a look at the ‘Ice Maiden’ – the well-preserved mummified remains of a young Inca girl who died in the 1440s. Otherwise, while away the rest of your day in the cafes and restaurants near the main plaza with a Peruvian coffee.
Day 7 - Chivay
Around 8 am, take a private vehicle to Chivay. There’ll be plenty of time to stop and take pictures as you're likely to see llamas, alpacas and vicunas along the way. You'll also get to try coca tea – a traditional herbal drink made from coca leaves – from roadside stalls. After a stop at Patapampa (the highest point of your adventure, standing at 4800 m above sea level), descend into Chivay town for a free evening. Choose to spend it soaking in the local hot springs, dining on Alpaca steak or listening to live Andean music at a pena (music hall). Your leader will know all the best spots, so be sure to ask them.
Day 8 - Arequipa
Wake early and take a short drive into the renowned Colca Canyon. This river canyon is dotted with traditional villages, agricultural terraces and trekking routes and is also home to the Andean condor. See the morning routine of this mighty ruler of the sky, gazing as they circle this extraordinary natural ravine. Depending on weather conditions, you’ll do a short hike around the area (approximately 45 minutes) before returning to Chivay. In the afternoon, travel back to Arequipa, then relax into a free evening with your fellow adventurers.
Day 9 - Arequipa
With another day in Arequipa, why not get out and explore more of the city's highlights? For a bit of culture, take a stroll down to Casa Museo Villalobos for a peek into its extensive art collection. If you’re looking for something a bit more hands-on, there are regular cooking classes around the city – be sure to speak to your leader for their recommendations. Keep in mind that you’ll head to the bus station in the afternoon to board an overnight bus to Cusco.
Day 10 - Cusco
Arrive in Cusco on your overnight bus sometime in the early morning. When you arrive, drop your bags at the hotel and head into town for breakfast. After, your leader will give you the choice of going straight out for an orientation walk or resting in the hotel for a few hours before a stroll in the afternoon. On your walking tour, you’ll visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, local San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. This evening, join your leader and fellow travellers at Casa Intrepid for a trekking and Machu Picchu briefing.
Day 11 - Inca Trail
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. While away from Cusco, 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 (5kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. 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 Today travel by minivan to the 82 kilometre marker and meet your crew of local porters, cook and guide. The first day includes uphill trekking to the campsite, which is at 3100m 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. In the evening, 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. Drive to the starting point of the trek, Rafq'a, and meet the horsemen who join us on the hike. After an hour’s walk, reach the small community of Socma. Carry on to the Perolniyoc Cascade lookout, an opportunity to stop for photos and a food break. Continue to the campsite, which is 3700 metres above sea level. You should reach the campsite around lunchtime. After lunch, 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.
Day 12 - Inca Trail
Route 1 Inca Trail This is the most challenging day of the trek as you ascend a long steep path (approximately 5 hours) to reach the highest point of the trail. Colloquially known as 'Dead Woman's Pass', Warmiwanusca sits at a height of 4200 metres above sea level, providing amazing views of the valley below. The group will then descend to the campsite in the Pacaymayo Valley at 3650 metres. Route 2 Quarry Trail This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the hike. A 3 hour walk takes us to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa (approximately 4370 metres high). After enjoying picturesque views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, make the two-hour hike to Kuychicassa, the highest pass of the trek at 4450 metres. 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 and at 3600 metres. 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.
Day 13 - Inca Trail
Route 1 Inca Trail Start the day with a climb through the Pacaymayo Valley to Runkuracay Pass (3980 metres). Enjoy views of the snow-capped mountain of Cordillera Vilcabamba before descending for around 2 to 3 hours to the ruins of Sayacmarca. Continue over the trail’s third pass to the ruins of Phuyupatamarca (3850 metres), 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 to Aguas Calientes Today’s hike will all be downhill. The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. Around midday, come to the end of the trek. Explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who didn't hike. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu. Route 3 Train to Aguas Calientes After a drive to Ollantaytambo (about 1.5 hours), catch a train through the winding Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes (another 1.5 hours). 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 comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 14 - Inca Trail
Route 1 Inca Trail This is the final and most spectacular leg of the trek to Machu Picchu. The day starts before dawn with breakfast at 4 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and then begin hiking by 4.30 am. Once the final checkpoint opens at 5 am, begin the final leg of the trek. The walk to Intipunku (the Sun Gate) takes around 2.5 hours. Weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views over the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ as you enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Route 2 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. Route 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 where you'll spend the night.
Day 15 - Cusco
Today you’ll travel into the Sacred Valley to meet a traditional community and enjoy an included lunch prepared and cooked by your hosts. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the fertile Sacred Valley has long been the main source of food for communities in the high Andes. If your visit coincides with market day, you could also spend time browsing the stalls for hand-painted beads or warm ponchos. In the afternoon, take a bus back to Cusco for a free evening.
Day 16 - Cusco
Enjoy some free time to delve a little deeper into Cusco today. Those with weary legs might want to grab a coffee from a cafe at Plaza de Armas and do some people-watching. For those feeling active, the hills surrounding Cusco are well-suited for mountain biking. Ask your leader for optional activities and tips to make the most of your day
Day 17 - Puno
This morning, travel by local bus through the Altiplano plateau to Puno. There'll be one brief stop along the way at Pucara, where you'll have the chance to buy some snacks and take a toilet break. Puno is known as the folklore capital of Peru and is famous for its diverse cultures and traditional dances. If you're lucky, your visit might coincide with an evening parade, when the streets fill with costumed dancers and musicians.
Day 18 - Puno
Puno sits on the shores of Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake in the world. Enjoy a tour of the lake by slow motorboat, stopping to visit the Floating Islands of Uros. Built completely from layers of totora reeds which grow in the lake’s shallows, the Uros people historically built these islands to isolate themselves from rival tribes in ancient times. After your boat trip, transfer to the Llachon Peninsula where you'll stay with a local family in their traditional mud-brick home. You’ll have the chance to help your host family with their daily activities and maybe join a game of soccer or volleyball in the village with the local kids.
Day 19 - Puno
In the morning, board a boat to Taquile Island – a great place to pick up some locally knitted goods. Knitting here is strictly a male domain, while women do the spinning. You can also do a one-hour uphill hike to the main area of the island where you can explore the local markets before descending the 500 steps back to the boat. After, return to Puno, where the rest of the day is free to explore as you like.
Day 20 - La Paz
At around 7 am, take a local bus to Desaguadero and cross the border into Bolivia – you’ll say goodbye to your Peruvian leader and meet your Bolivian leader. You'll be asked to leave the bus to proceed through Peruvian migration. The group will then walk across a bridge, submit passports at the Bolivian migration office, and reboard the bus for La Paz. Approximately 30 minutes after crossing the border into Bolivia, there's another stop where the army will check your documents again. The journey time to La Paz varies depending on the border crossing queues. Tonight, maybe head out for a final dinner with your group and raise a toast to your adventure.
Day 21 - La Paz
With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end though – there’s loads to do in La Paz, including the renowned Mercado de Hechiceria (Witches' Market). If you’d like to spend more time here, just let us know and we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
14-03-202603-04-2026AUD $ 3,732-
28-03-202617-04-2026AUD $ 3,732-
11-04-202601-05-2026AUD $ 4,760-
27-06-202617-07-2026AUD $ 4,430-
11-07-202631-07-2026AUD $ 4,490-
25-07-202614-08-2026AUD $ 4,520-
01-08-202621-08-2026AUD $ 4,490-
29-08-202618-09-2026AUD $ 4,490-
19-09-202609-10-2026AUD $ 4,790-
26-09-202616-10-2026AUD $ 4,710-
17-10-202606-11-2026AUD $ 4,560-
31-10-202620-11-2026AUD $ 4,390-
14-11-202604-12-2026AUD $ 4,260-
05-12-202625-12-2026AUD $ 4,060-
26-12-202615-01-2027AUD $ 4,060-
02-01-202722-01-2027AUD $ 4,405-
13-03-202702-04-2027AUD $ 4,535-
10-04-202730-04-2027AUD $ 4,405-
15-05-202704-06-2027AUD $ 4,535-
26-06-202716-07-2027AUD $ 4,405-
10-07-202730-07-2027AUD $ 4,665-
24-07-202713-08-2027AUD $ 4,665-
18-09-202708-10-2027AUD $ 4,665-
25-09-202715-10-2027AUD $ 4,665-
16-10-202705-11-2027AUD $ 4,535-
30-10-202719-11-2027AUD $ 4,535-
13-11-202703-12-2027AUD $ 4,405-
04-12-202724-12-2027AUD $ 4,405-
25-12-202714-01-2028AUD $ 4,405-

Accommodation

Camping (with basic facilities) (3 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (15 nights), Overnight bus (1 night)

Transport

Train, Public Bus, Private Vehicle

Map

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