Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

14 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

18 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 39 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Challenging

Demands good physical fitness and stamina for more intense or extended activities.

Starts

Lima, Peru

Ends

Cusco, Peru

Highlights

Conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Meet the locals at an Andean homestay.

Witness soaring condors at Colca Canyon.

Sip pisco sours and devour fresh seafood.

Itinerary

Walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations on the "Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes" tour, a 14-day journey tailored for energetic young adults seeking adventure. Starting in Lima and ending in Cusco, this challenging trek takes you through the legendary Inca Trail, past the Nazca Lines, and into the Andean highlands.

Highlights include reaching the mystical Machu Picchu, enjoying a Pachamanca feast, and exploring historic towns like Ollantaytambo. With all essentials covered—accommodation, transport, meals, and expert guidance—you’re free to focus on the adventure and the breathtaking scenery.

What makes this trip stand out is its perfect balance of flexibility and immersion, offering both iconic sights and authentic cultural encounters, all at great value. For those ready to embrace the Andes, this is the ultimate trekking tour package.

day 1 - Lima

Arrive at any time. Get to know your group tonight as you head out to one of the many bars and restaurants in the bohemian neighbourhood of Barranco. Enjoy a local craft beer with your fellow travellers as you get excited for the adventure to come.
There are no planned activities, so check into the hotel and enjoy the city. (Check-in time is approx 3pm.)

After the welcome meeting, head out for an optional dinner at a nearby local restaurant. If you arrive late, no worries, the CEO will leave you a message at the front desk.

Accomodation:Hotel Gemina (or similar)

Included Activities:Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Duration : 1.0 hr, Connect With New Friends

Optional Activities:Lima Cooking Class (4hrs) , Lima City Tour

day 2 - Lima/Nazca

Catch a local bus and drive down the coast through the desert to Nazca.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Hotel Hacienda San Marcelo (or similar)

Transport:Local Bus Duration : 7.5 hr

day 3 - Nazca/Arequipa

Free time to explore Nazca; Opt for a flight over the famous Nazca Lines or take a tour of the Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio. Enjoy a traditional "Pachamanca" lunch, then later catch the overnight bus to Arequipa.

Meal:Lunch

Transport:Overnight Bus Duration : 9.0 hr

Included Activity:Pachamanca

Optional Activities:Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio Guided Tour 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., Sandboarding at Cerro Blanco Visit Cerro Blanco, one of the world's tallest sand dunes, and experience the thrill of sand boarding. Your guide will teach you everything you need to know, then you will hike to the top for a descent of 600 metres! Afterwards, take a desert tour in a dune buggy of the Cahuachi ruins, the Ocongalla Aqueducts and the Profanado Cemetery., Flight over Nazca Lines

day 4 - Arequipa

Welcome to Arequipa! Take the Day to explore what is known as the 'white city.' If you're into history and architecture, visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, where you'll get a unique glimpse into a bygone way of life. For spicy food lovers, visiting one of the 'picanterías' is a must. Satisfy your craving with a variety of local regional foods: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.

Accomodation:Terra Mistica Casa Consuelo (or similar)

Optional Activities:Juanita Museum Visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos, also known as the Juanita Museum for the well-preserved mummy of a young Incan girl sacrificed to the Incan Gods in the 1500s. Juanita remained preserved on the top of Mt Ambato until quite recently, she was discovered in the mid-90s and was briefly displayed in the National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C., Arequipa City Tour

day 5 - Arequipa/Colca Canyon

Enjoy a full-day tour of the spectacular Colca Valley and venture to the impressive Colca Canyon — one of the deepest canyons in the world — on an overnight excursion. With a little luck, you'll spot Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Keep a lookout for other unusual animals! Give your body some much needed relaxation by taking a dip in the the hot springs.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Vita Colca Hotel (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 4.5 hr - 5.0 hr Distance : 165 km

Included Activity:Colca Canyon Guided Tour

Optional Activities:Hot Springs Soak your weary bones in steaming hot water pouring from the earth and relax.

day 6 - Colca Canyon

Get an early start–be on the look out for condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to get a glimpse of these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop in local villages, and see old terraces. Catch an overnight bus to Cusco.

Meal:Breakfast

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 4.5 hr - 5.0 hr Distance : 165 km, Overnight Bus Duration : 10.0 hr

Included Activity:Colca Canyon Guided Tour

day 7 - Cusco

Free Day in Cusco to explore. Choose to pre-book the Cusco Cooking Class. Opt to go mountain biking or just relax in a café.

Accomodation:Aranjuez Cusco Hotel (or similar)

Optional Activities:Cusco City Tour Tour runs from 2:00PM. All of it is done by car, with walks around the visited ruins. Clothing depends on the weather, sunblock and a hat are recommended., Inka Museum Get ready to explore the artifacts from the Inca Empire, including mummies, jewelry, skulls, and ceramics at this museum of archaeology., Cusco Cooking Class

day 8 - Cusco/Ccaccaccollo

Head into the Sacred Valley today to visit the G-Adventures supported women's weaving co-op in the Ccaccaccollo community. Learn about weaving, and meet the adorable resident llamas. If you see a knitted item you like, buy it — a perfect keepsake from your journey. Get further immersed in the local life of the Ccaccaccollo community during an overnight homestay.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Homestay Ccacaccollo (or similar)

Included Activities:Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit, Ccaccaccollo Community Homestay

day 9 - Ccaccaccollo/Ollantaytambo

Travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas. You can choose to take a Sacred Valley tour and visit 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. Catch your breath at Ollantaytambo and prepare for the hike the next morning.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Las Orquideas Ollantaytambo (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 0.75 hr - 1.0 hr

Optional Activities:Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley Contribute to sustainable tourism in Huchuy Qosqo, a small village of 65 families in the Sacred Valley, by eating at the Parwa Community Restaurant. Learn how the resident-run restaurant was kickstarted by G Adventures and the Multilateral Investment Fund, to become a successful farm-to-table program that boosts the local economy and several spin-off microenterprises., Sacred Valley Tour Opt to add a Sacred Valley tour, which includes a visit to a G Adventures-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., Sacred Valley Brewery Delight your tastebuds and sample high-quality beer with the breathtaking Sacred Valley as a backdrop. This craft brewery uses local ingredients to make award-winning brews and gives back to the surrounding communities. What's not to like? , Ollantaytambo Ruins Visit Explore this ancient site right in the heart of Ollantaytambo city. Learn about the principles of Incan architecture and get a first taste of climbing around a massive ruins site.

day 10 - Inca Trail

Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where your trek begins. Hike through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons. You'll see several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Campsite Wayllabamba (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 0.75 hr

Included Activities:Inca Trail Hike Duration : 5.0 hr - 6.0 hr Distance : 11 km, Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products

day 11 - Inca Trail

Get an early start today to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, known as Dead Woman's Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with some much needed R&R.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Included Activity:Inca Trail Hike Duration : 6.0 hr - 7.0 hr Distance : 12 km

day 12 - Inca Trail

Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley.

At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (""forever young"") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Included Activity:Inca Trail Hike Duration : 9.0 hr Distance : 16 km

day 13 - Machu Picchu/Cusco

The final Day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon. Tonight, dance the night away at a popular night club.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Aranjuez Cusco Hotel (or similar)

Transport:Train Duration : 1.5 hr - 1.75 hr Distance : 31 km, Private Vehicle Duration : 1.5 hr - 1.75 hr Distance : 60 km

Included Activities:Inca Trail Hike Duration : 2.0 hr - 3.0 hr Distance : 6 km, Machu Picchu Guided Tour Duration : 1.5 hr - 2.0 hr, Big Night Out

day 14 - Cusco

Depart at any time.

Meal:Breakfast

Included Activity:Departure Day

Optional Activities:Cusco Tourist Ticket This ticket allows admission at 16 sights of the city of Cusco including many popular museums and cathedrals, the ticket also provides entrance to Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park, and sights in the South Valley of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas., Inka Museum Get ready to explore the artifacts from the Inca Empire, including mummies, jewelry, skulls, and ceramics at this museum of archaeology., Cusco City Tour Tour runs from 2:00PM. All of it is done by car, with walks around the visited ruins. Clothing depends on the weather, sunblock and a hat are recommended.

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

Simple hotels (7 nts), overnight bus (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), camping (3 nts).

Meals

10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Note: Allow USD240-315 for meals not included.

Transport

Hiking, local bus, train.All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Guide

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, specialist Inca Trail CEO on hike, local guides.

Included activities

Your G for Good Moment: Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit, CcaccaccolloYour G for Good Moment: Handmade Biodegradable Soap ProductsYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and GroupYour First Night Out Moment: Connect With New FriendsYour Foodie Moment: Pachamanca, NazcaYour Discover Moment: CuscoYour Local Living Moment: Ccaccaccollo Community Homestay, CcaccaccolloYour Big Night Out Moment: CuscoOvernight Colca Canyon excursionInca Trail hike with local guide, cook, and porters (4 days)Guided tour of Machu Picchu

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes

5.0

based on 9 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Other Practical Information

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 60+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 815 customer reviews from

Maggy

I found using the website & booking on Bookmundi easy to follow & efficient. Lots of good tours to decide between and clear information available

5 days ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes that you might like.

Essential Peru

4.8(177 reviews)

Peru’s most iconic wonders and hidden gems await on the "Essential Peru" tour—a 15-day journey crafted for senior travelers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment. Starting and ending in Lima, this moderate-activity trip guides you through the contrasting landscapes of coastal deserts, snow-capped Andes, and lush cloud forests. Visit world-famous sites like the mysterious Nazca Lines, the lost city of Machu Picchu, and the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca, where you’ll experience an overnight island homestay for an authentic taste of local life. Discover the breathtaking Colca Canyon, spot soaring condors, and meet warm-hearted Peruvians eager to share their traditions. The unique selling point of this tour package is its seamless blend of natural spectacle and deep cultural encounters—ensuring your journey is as enriching as it is awe-inspiring. For seniors ready to embrace Peru’s vibrant spirit, "Essential Peru" is a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

15 days

Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest

4.9(118 reviews)

Ready for a journey that blends ancient wonders and wild rainforests? The "Inca Trail & the Amazon Rainforest" trip offers experienced travelers an unforgettable 15-day trekking and hiking adventure starting and ending in Lima. Traverse Peru’s highlands on the legendary Inca Trail, winding through majestic mountains and lush cloud forests toward the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy an afternoon arrival for iconic photos and a restful overnight stay in Aguas Calientes. After a fresh start, delve deeper into Machu Picchu’s mysteries before taking the train back to Cuzco. But the adventure doesn’t end there—explore the serene islands of Lake Titicaca and plunge into the vibrant Amazon Rainforest, experiencing its dense jungle and extraordinary biodiversity. With all logistics, accommodations, and meals organized, this tour package’s unique selling point is its perfect balance of cultural immersion and outdoor excitement—ideal for those seeking to connect with Peru’s history and natural marvels on a challenging, rewarding route.

15 days

Classic Peru

5.0(8 reviews)

Craving a truly immersive Andean adventure? "Classic Peru" is a 12-day trekking and hiking tour crafted for experienced travelers ready to embrace both cultural discovery and physical challenge. From the lively streets of Lima to the ancient heights of Cusco, this small group journey blends the best of Peru’s archaeological wonders, vibrant local life, and breathtaking landscapes. Begin by exploring the historic capital, then cruise the serene waters of Lake Titicaca and experience a rural homestay—offering a rare glimpse into traditional village life. In Cusco, wander cobblestone alleys before lacing up your boots for the legendary Inca Trail. Tackle Dead Woman’s Pass, conquer mountain trails, and arrive at the iconic Machu Picchu, all while benefiting from fair treatment of porters, outstanding equipment, and nourishing meals—hallmarks of this operator’s commitment to ethical trekking. This tour package includes accommodations, transportation, and meals, leaving you free to focus on the journey. The challenging activity rating means you’ll face high altitudes and demanding hikes—perfect for active travelers seeking a rewarding, unforgettable Peruvian experience. The standout feature of this trip is its seamless combination of cultural immersion and expertly managed trekking. With every detail handled, you’ll be free to enjoy Peru’s legendary sights and hidden stories, making this tour a true highlight for those who want to experience the Andes at their most authentic and awe-inspiring.

12 days

Journeys: Inca Explorer

5.0(13 reviews)

Journey through Peru’s rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures on this immersive 15-day tour for seniors and experienced travelers. From the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca to the colonial elegance of Arequipa, and the breathtaking train ride to Machu Picchu, this trip offers both iconic sites and hidden gems. The tour’s unique selling point is its balanced approach—blending must-see archaeological wonders with authentic local experiences, creating a well-rounded exploration of Peru that goes beyond the ordinary.

15 days

Amazon to the Andes

5.0(8 reviews)

For those eager to experience Peru’s wild contrasts, the "Amazon to the Andes" tour is a 12-day wildlife and trekking adventure beginning and ending in Lima. This challenging small-group trip is crafted for experienced travelers who thrive on diversity—scan the Amazon canopy for exotic species from a secluded jungle lodge, then tackle the famed Inca Trail en route to the mystical heights of Machu Picchu. The USP? Not only does this tour package ensure fair treatment for porters and top-quality equipment, but it also blends the thrill of remote wilderness with the magic of ancient civilizations, promising a truly holistic Peruvian escape.

12 days

The Salkantay Trek

4.9(62 reviews)

For those drawn to high-altitude adventure, "The Salkantay Trek" delivers a 14-day odyssey through Peru’s spectacular Vilcabamba mountain range. Starting and ending in Cusco, this challenging hiking tour blends four days on remote trails with the iconic Inca Trail approach to Machu Picchu. You’ll skirt the towering Salkantay peak, traverse the breathtaking Inca Chiriasqa Pass, and spend time in isolated villages before joining the classic route to the Sun Gate. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed for experienced trekkers, offering ample time to explore Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, plus a unique overnight in Aguas Calientes for a relaxed, in-depth tour of Machu Picchu the following day. With all logistics—accommodation, meals, and transport—handled, you’re freed to focus on the journey. The USP? A rare combination of remote trekking and in-depth exploration of Peru’s most revered archaeological sites, culminating in a less-crowded Machu Picchu visit.

14 days

Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure

5.0(1 review)

From the soaring Andes to the lush Amazon, the "Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure" tour whisks explorers through Peru’s most iconic landscapes in just 12 days. Beginning and ending in Lima, this guided trip is designed for those who thrive on a challenging pace and crave diversity in both scenery and experience. Stroll through historic towns and vibrant cityscapes before trekking the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, immersing yourself in the ancient heart of the Inca Empire. Then, swap mountains for jungle, venturing into the Amazon to spot exotic wildlife and discover unique plant species. Accommodation, transport, and meals are all included, letting you focus on the thrill of hiking and wildlife encounters. For travelers eager to experience Peru’s best—ancient ruins, lively cities, and the world’s greatest rainforest—in one seamless journey, this trip’s USP is its expertly curated blend of trekking and Amazon exploration.

12 days

Keep Exploring Peru

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights