12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco

12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco 12 Days

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12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco
12 Days Classic Peru from Lima to Cuzco

Overview
Itinerary
Nuts & Bolts
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Overview

Highlights

Duration: 12 Days
Comfort: 66.6666666666667%
Language: English
Rating: 80.0%
Trip ID: 126375
Start Location: Monserrate, Peru
End Location: Cusco, Peru

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Primary Activities: Hiking, Local Culture & Cuisine, History
Other Activities: Horseback rides, Historical Sites, museum, Wildlife, sightseeing, Machu Picchu, sailboating, cruise, archeology, inca trail, churches
Activity Level: Intermediate

This compact tour of the archeological highlights and culture treasures of the Andean highlands has it all. Cruise Lake Titicaca and immerse yourself in rural life with a homestay in a small village. Wander the cobblestone streets of Cuzco before breaking a sweat hiking mountain passes along the Inca Trail on your way to Machu Picchu. Because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment so that you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.

What's Included:

Guided tour of Taquile and Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca
Guided tour of Sacred Valley
4-day Inca Trail hike with local guide, cook and porters
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Hotels/guest houses (7nts), camping (3nts), homestay (1nt)
Public buses, plane, train, boat, hiking
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides
Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 10

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lima: Arrive in Lima at any time. There are no planned activities so check into our hotel and enjoy the city.

Peru is made up of three main geographical areas: the Andes, the Amazon and the desert coastal area. On this trip we concentrate on exploring two of the more spectacular regions that Peru is known for - the Andes and the Amazon.

Known as the City of Kings, Peru’s capital city Lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro on the Day of the Three Kings (Epiphany) in 1535. The Plaza Mayor is the heart of old Lima, and it is here you find the Cathedral, Government Palace and Archbishop’s Palace. The Cathedral dates back to the 1700s and houses the remains of the conquistador Pizarro. To get a feel for colonial Lima, take a cab to the Plaza de Armas and watch the changing of the Palace Guard at noon. Walk the streets surrounding the Jirón de la Unión for great examples of Spanish-colonial architecture and to get a taste for life in a large South American city. An optional city tour visits many of the city’s highlights.

There are many fine museums in and around the city, including the Museo Rafael Larco Herrera, which houses an equally impressive collection of pottery, jewelery, mummies and textiles from the Paracas and Nazca cultures. The more affluent coastal districts of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro offer good nightlife and cafés all within walking distance. Limeños (Lima’s residents) are friendly, and the city is filled with excellent restaurants; seafood lovers in particular should be sure to try a ceviche, for which Lima is well known.
Days 2-4: Fly to Juliaca and transfer to Puno: Fly to Juliaca then take a short bus ride to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The next morning we head out by boat across Lake Titicaca.

Located at 3830 m above sea level, Puno is the highest altitude of any place we sleep on the tour. As a result the weather can be extreme with very cold nights and a strong sun during the day (don’t worry, if you get cold, buy an alpaca sweater from the market — they are inexpensive here). Puno is also known for its wealth of traditional dances: there are up to 100 different varieties, usually performed in the street processions celebrating Catholic feast days. If you are fortunate enough to be visiting at the right time you may even catch one of these celebrations.

A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away.

Titicaca is also the largest lake in the world above 2000m, and the views from both Amantaní and Taquile Islands are stunning.

This morning we board a boat on Lake Titicaca. We head to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and the chance for some shopping in the local weaving cooperatives. From there we head to Amantani where we overnight with a local family and enjoy typical music of the area. The following morning we will visit the floating islands of Uros en route to Puno.

The Totora reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake are used for making everything from the islands themselves to the model boats that the islanders sell. The islands are made up of layers upon layers of reeds; as the layers closest to the water start to rot, they are replaced with fresh reeds on top. The reeds are also used to build their boats, which if constructed well will last up to 6 months.

The people of Taquile Island's unique culture, style of dress and lifestyle make for a memorable visit. The men of the community do all the knitting, as this is strictly a male domain, while the women do the spinning. High quality, locally knitted goods are available for purchase at various cooperatives on the island. Despite the short distance that separates the two islands, Amantaní is quite distinct. Its soil is a rich terra cotta red, due to the high iron deposits, and the colour contrasts brightly with the deep azure blue of the lake and sky and the greenery of the local crops. For the night we split into smaller groups and billet into family homes to experience their style of living first-hand.

The following morning we visit the Uros Islands on our way back to Puno.

HEALTH NOTE: when you arrive in Puno, the altitude and resulting lack of oxygen may affect you. It may take a little time to acclimatize to this, but before long you probably will not even notice it. Just take it easy for the first day or two, and cut back on alcohol and cigarette consumption to minimize the effects. You may also find that your appetite is reduced. This is no cause for alarm, but simply a reaction to the altitude. Be sure to drink plenty of water and do not attempt too much in any given day.

Approximate Distance: 856km
Estimated Travel Time: 4.40 hours
Day 5: Full day of travel day by bus from Puno to Cuzco: The trip from Puno to Cuzco takes the better part of the day, with stark, beautiful scenery en route as you travel through the high Altiplano region. Upon arrival in Cuzco we transfer to our hotel and relax for the evening.

Cuzco is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city, and the hub of the South American travel network. The city attracts travelers who come not just to visit a unique destination but also to experience an age-old culture very different from their 20th century way of life; one could easily spend a week just in and around the area. Inca-built stone walls line most of the central streets and you don't have to go far to see other major Inca ruins. It is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend.

Every year Cuzco attracts thousands of travelers who come to delve into its noble but tragic past. It is the perfect base for optional explorations around the city and area as well as a range of outdoor activities. Relax and explore this fascinating city, and take time to acclimatize to the high altitude.

Cuzco’s numerous colonial churches are one of the city’s most common sights. The Cathedral was started in 1559 and took 100 years to build; it is also one of the city’s greatest repositories of colonial art. Immediately in front of the entrance is a vault containing the remains of the famous Inca historian, Garcilaso de la Vega. Also worth visiting are the churches of La Compañía, La Merced and San Francisco.

While most archeological sites are just outside of the city, the main ruin within is that of the Coricancha, once the Inca Empire's richest temple. Today the ruin forms the base of the colonial church of Santo Domingo. During Inca times this temple was literally covered with gold, but within months of the arrival of the first conquistadors this incredible wealth had all been melted down. It is left to the individual imagination to envision the magnificence of the original structure.

There are several good museums in Cuzco, including the Archaeological Museum, which also houses a small art museum, the Regional History Museum, the Larco Herrera Museum and the Religious Art Museum. Our best advice for exploring Cuzco is to wear a comfortable pair of shoes, arm yourself with a city map and a bottle of water and set off to explore!
Day 6: Full day guided tour of the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo ruins: Travel with our local guide through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. An important source of food for the Inca, the Sacred Valley is a lush agricultural region that continues to supply the city of Cuzco with much of its produce. Visit the impressive Pisac ruins and the colourful artisan market (market days only). The day trip finishes in the picturesque village of Ollantaytambo, site of another large Inca ruin. Here we catch our breath and prepare for the hike ahead.

Ollantaytambo is your first taste of what lies ahead on the Inca Trail. The town and fortress of Ollantaytambo are strategically situated overlooking the beautiful Urubamba River Valley. This major ruin site is known as the best surviving example of Inca urban planning and engineering. It is admired for its huge steep terraces guarding the Inca Fortress and for being one of the few places where the Spanish lost a major battle during the conquest. We spend the night in this small town before heading out for the start of the hike the next morning.
Days 7-10: 4-day guided Inca Trail hike with visit to Machu Picchu: The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is physically challenging but worthwhile, and the excursion is within the ability of most reasonably fit. It is a 44-km (27 mile) hike, with 3 high passes to be crossed, one of which reaches an elevation of 4200m (13776 ft). The trail is often steep, and it may rain even during the dry season. The temperatures at night may fall below zero, so it is important to come prepared.

Depart Ollantaytambo for km 82 where we begin our walk in the footsteps of the Incas. Our local crew of porters, cook and guide look after us well for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear for the hike, so those passengers doing the hike only carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. As you walk the trail that linked this ancient empire, admire breathtaking views at every step as we move from high plateau areas to dense cloud forest. Depending on the season, you may see a great variety of flora, including miniature and large orchids, and fiery rhododendron bushes.

You pass several smaller ruin sites, the first of which is Llactapata. The second day climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, or Dead Woman’s Pass. At 4198 m (13769 ft) above sea level, this pass is the highest point of the trek. The second pass of the hike is at 3998 m (13113 ft) where on clear days, we enjoy superb views of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. The trail goes through some beautiful cloud forest on the gentle climb to the third pass, where you will walk through a causeway and a tunnel, both original Inca constructions. The highest point of the third pass is at 3700m (12136 ft). On clear days you are rewarded for all this work with beautiful views of the Urubamba Valley below. Soon you reach the serene ruins of Phuyupatamarca, or the 'Town above the Clouds', at about 3650 m (11972 ft) above sea level. We will camp either here or an hour and a half further along close to Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young) ruins, a grandiose terraced hillside site, with panoramic views of the valley below and just a short hike from Machu Picchu.

On the final day of the hike we climb the steps to the Sun Gate overlooking the peaks that surround Machu Picchu. When the morning is clear, there is no way to describe the feeling of the first views of Machu Picchu, as the mist rises off the mountains early in the morning and the famous site appears in front of you.

Machu Picchu is both the best and the least known of the Inca ruins. It is not mentioned in any of the chronicles of the Spanish conquistadors and archaeologists today can do no more than speculate on its function. The local Quechua farmers in the area knew of Machu Picchu for centuries, but it was not until an 11-year-old boy led the American historian Hiram Bingham (who was in search of Vilcabamba) to the site on July 24, 1911, that the rest of the world became aware of its existence. At that time the site was covered in thick vegetation, and Bingham and his team returned in 1912 and 1915 to clear the growth. Over the years, much work has been done on excavating and studying the site. Despite these efforts, many unanswered questions remain.

NOTE: Those passengers not able or interested in the hike spend 2 days in Cuzco, then travel by train to Aguas Calientes, where they overnight. Next morning they take the bus to the Machu Picchu entrance and rendezvous with the hikers at the ruins. If you decide not to do the hike we need to know prior to your departure in order to obtain train tickets. There is an additional fee for any changes made once Inca Trail permits are confirmed. This fee may vary depending on the changes that are made to your itinerary. Please advise your agent or G Adventures.

Also note that portions of the Inca Trail will be closed for general maintenance during the month of February each year. Also, closures may occur at various times throughout the year due to inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control. During these periods, any tour affected will hike the Lares Trek.

Distances of the Inca trail:
Day 1 Km 82 to Wayllambama
Approximate distance: 11 km
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hrs

Day 2 Wayllabamba to Paqaymayo
Approximate distance: 12 km
Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hrs

Day 3 Paqaymayo to Wiñaywayna
Approximate distance: 16 km
Estimated hiking time: 8 hrs

Day 4
Wiñaywayna to Intipunku (Sun Gate)
Approximate distance: 4 km
Estimated hiking time: 1.5 hrs

Intipunku to Machu Picchu
Approximate distance: 1.5 km
Estimated hiking time: 45 min
(3B,3L,3D)
Day 11: Free day to explore Cuzco or relax: Cuzco is considered the mecca of Peru and rightly so. This beautiful colonial town offers nearby ruins, cobble-stoned streets, museums, churches and a lively atmosphere. Among the more adventurous optional activities available in Cuzco are: horseback riding around archaeological sites such as Sacsayhuaman, Tambo Machay and Puca Pucara; white water rafting on the Urubamba River; and mountain biking down to the Sacred Valley, perhaps visiting an Inca ruin along the way.
Day 12: Depart in Cuzco: Note: Return flight to Lima can be arranged if requested.

Nuts & Bolts

Trip Includes

Guided tour of Taquile and Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca
Guided tour of Sacred Valley
4-day Inca Trail hike with local guide, cook and porters
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Hotels/guest houses (7nts), camping (3nts), homestay (1nt)
Public buses, plane, train, boat, hiking
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout (except on the Inca Trail), local guides
Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 10

Trip Excludes

Visas
Tipping
Travel insurance
Fees for Optional Activities
Personal expenses
Allow USD180-280 for meals not included

Trip ID#: 126375

CANCELLATIONS: 20% cancellation fee applied if cancelled 60 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 60 days are 100% non-cancelable

Operator

For the specifics on this tour operator, please contact AdventureLink directly.

Reviews (10)

Robert B

It was truly amazing. The G Adventures representative and the local tour guides were tremendous. Everyone should hike into Machu Picchu at least once. It is a personal challenge. The fact that our group was comprised of no more than one couple each from different countries around the world is a testament to your talents. Keep up the fun.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  80%
- Value Rating
  90%
- Itinerary Rating
  90%
- Accomodation Rating
  70%
Ryan C

My husband and I really enjoyed the tour as we were able to truly experience Peruvian culture during our homestay on Lake Titticaca. Further, the service we were provided on the Inca Trail was outstanding.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  70%
- Value Rating
  90%
- Itinerary Rating
  90%
- Accomodation Rating
  80%
Danielle M

This was my first time that I travelled with a tour group so I was a bit apprehensive. I really enjoyed it! I liked sharing my experience with others and hearing about others' travel experiences.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  80%
- Value Rating
  80%
- Itinerary Rating
  90%
- Accomodation Rating
  70%
Sheila Karbel R

Very enjoyable, mostly well-planned. Great guides, good hotels.
- Overall Rating
  90%
- Guide Rating
  80%
- Value Rating
  80%
- Itinerary Rating
  80%
- Accomodation Rating
  90%
Glen K

Carlos did an excellent job of getting us place to place and keeping us entertained in Cuzco. Percy's knowledge and love for the the Inca trial made my trip. Percy gave the trail spiritual meaning for me.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  100%
- Value Rating
  90%
- Itinerary Rating
  90%
- Accomodation Rating
  80%
Neil H

The trip was well organised and nothing was left to chance. Every connection, flight, bus, train was on time as were the guides we were supposed to meet.
- Overall Rating
  90%
- Guide Rating
  90%
- Value Rating
  90%
- Itinerary Rating
  80%
- Accomodation Rating
  90%
Robert M

From my booking over the internet to the arrangements everything was perfect. The tour leader went way out of his way to make our trip a memorable experience. Everyone, tour leader, guide, bus was 100% on time, we never had to wait even a minute. The was not one low point.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  100%
- Value Rating
  100%
- Itinerary Rating
  90%
- Accomodation Rating
  70%
Alexandra P

Incredible trip, no complaints, wonderful time.
- Overall Rating
  90%
- Guide Rating
  90%
- Value Rating
  80%
- Itinerary Rating
  80%
- Accomodation Rating
  70%
Sandra J

I've been traveling since I was 16, never had I experience a trip such as this one. I must say that I'll definitely do this one again.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  90%
- Value Rating
  90%
- Itinerary Rating
  100%
- Accomodation Rating
  70%
Katherine L

G Adventures did a great job planning the trip, organizing all fo the details, and selecting excellent local guides. There was a good balance of group activities and freedom to wander.
- Overall Rating
  80%
- Guide Rating
  90%
- Value Rating
  90%
- Itinerary Rating
  90%
- Accomodation Rating
  90%

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