Peru Highlights Holiday

Join the tour in Lima.

We take an early flight to the colonial city of Arequipa (2,325 metres/7,628ft), which sits at the foot of three tremendous volcanoes: El Misti (5,821m/19,098ft), Chachani (6,075m/19,931ft) and Pichu Pichu (5,542m/18,182ft). The city is built of earthquake-resistant sillar, a white pumice stone.

We take an early flight to the colonial city of Arequipa (2,325m/7,628ft), nestled at the base of three impressive volcanoes: El Misti (5,821m/19,098ft), Chachani (6,075m/19,931ft), and Pichu Pichu (5,542m/18,182ft). The city is constructed using sillar, a white pumice stone that is both beautiful and earthquake-resistant.

Arequipa boasts a wealth of attractions and serves as an excellent base for exploring the dramatic Colca Canyon. With its temperate year-round spring climate and over 300 days of sunshine annually, it is the ideal location to begin acclimatizing before ascending to higher altitudes.

Human activity in the Arequipa region dates back 6,000–8,000 years, with early inhabitants living as hunter-gatherers. In the 7th century, the Huari culture influenced the area, followed by the Tiahuanaco culture in the 10th century, and later the Incas.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Arequipa flourished due to silver mining in Potosí, Bolivia, and alpaca wool exports to Britain in the 19th century. The city is home to remarkable colonial-era sillar structures, including the renowned Santa Catalina Convent, a “mini-city” within Arequipa.

Officially founded by the Spanish in 1540, Arequipa is now a thriving commercial hub with a population of approximately 650,000 residents.

On arrival choose a city tour or wander this lovely city independently, with many places to enjoy.

You will be picked up from your hotel and begin your journey through the Colca Valley, passing the Pampas Cañahuas, where you may spot vicuñas, the South American camelids.

Our first stop is Patapampa (4,800m/15,748ft), offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes. From here, we continue on to Chivay, where you’ll have the opportunity to relax in the thermal baths at Clera in the afternoon. Tonight, stay in one of the hotels in Chivay, with accommodation options ranging from cozy lodges to luxurious spas, depending on your preferences and budget.

The head of the Colca Valley sits at an altitude of about 4,000m/13,123ft above sea level, where little vegetation grows and the land is primarily used for grazing. As we descend towards Chivay (3,633m/11,920ft), the terrain becomes more suitable for farming, with traditional agricultural terraces dotting the landscape.

Just a few kilometers from Chivay, the valley begins to narrow, steepening into the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon, which reaches an average depth of 3,400m/11,155ft and stretches for over 100km.

Evidence of human habitation in this area dates back thousands of years, but the landscape as we see it today was shaped by the pre-Inca Collagua and Cabanas cultures. These skilled agriculturalists developed the elaborate irrigation canals and terraces still in use today.
The people of the Colca region worshipped mountain spirits, with Hualqa-Hualqa (6,075m/19,931ft) revered for its power to control the waters flowing into the valley.

Today, Colca remains one of Peru’s premier agricultural regions, producing some of the finest crops, with volcanic peaks such as Coropuna (6,425m/21,079ft) and Ampato (6,320m/20,735ft) bordering the canyon. To the north lies the Cordillera Chila, home to Mismi (5,596m/18,360ft), the peak believed to be the source of the Amazon River.

The Colca Canyon is an incredible 100km long and reaches depths of up to 3,400m/11,155ft, making it twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Formed by a fault in the earth’s crust and shaped over thousands of years by the Colca River, this vast gorge remained largely unknown until 1954, with major explorations beginning in 1978 and the first descent by raft in 1981.

Scenic villages line both sides of the canyon, and the locals, who still live according to ancient traditions, will gladly assist with directions. Cave paintings indicate human presence in the area since the earliest inhabitants arrived in the Andes.

The iconic terraces of the Colca Valley, carved into the land over 1,400 years ago by the pre-Inca Collaguas and Cabanas peoples, rival the famed terraces of the Incas. These advanced agricultural techniques are still in use today, and the valley remains a rich source of diverse crops, including potatoes, corn, quinoa, maca, oca, and isaño. Many locals continue to wear their distinctive, vibrant traditional clothing.

We depart early to reach Cruz de Condor (3,800m/12,467ft), where we can observe the majestic Andean condors soaring on the thermals.

Despite their weight of 10 to 12 kilograms, these impressive birds, with wingspans exceeding three meters, exhibit incredible flight efficiency. With minimal wingbeats, they can glide to great heights and cover vast distances. The Colca Canyon is one of the rare places where you can get close-up views of these magnificent birds.

Afterward, the rest of the day is yours to relax, continue observing more condors, or shop for souvenirs.

The altiplano is a vast highland plateau that stretches across both Peru and Bolivia. The landscape is sparse, with few trees, vast stretches of ichu grass, roaming herds of llamas and alpacas, and scattered potato fields.

On our scenic bus journey from Chivay to Puno, we cross high mountain passes and pass through wetlands teeming with Andean geese, making stops to admire the dramatic mountain scenery. At some of the lakes along the route, there’s a good chance to spot flamingos.

Lake Titicaca, the centerpiece of Peru’s altiplano, is an extraordinary deep blue lake situated at 3,838m/12,592ft. It holds a unique allure and is home to many indigenous communities living on its islands and along its shores.

We continue by bus to the lively lakeside town of Puno, which serves as the main gateway for visits to the islands on the Peruvian side of the lake.

We begin early and head to the lively port of Puno to embark on a journey across the world’s highest navigable lake. Our first stop is the remarkable floating islands of Uros. Here, we disembark and explore these unique islands, learning about how the people live and construct their homes. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase high-quality woven goods and even sail in one of the traditional reed boats.

Next, we continue our journey to Amantani Island.

For those staying overnight, a village elder will assign your host family for the night. You’ll then have free time to explore the island’s trails and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this fascinating community.

After a leisurely morning, you’ll board the boat for the return journey to Puno, stopping at Taquile Island along the way.

We arrive in Puno by mid-afternoon, giving you the evening to explore the lakeside town at your own pace.

Today, we travel by train or bus across the altiplano to Cusco.

Along the way, we reach a high pass at 4,300m/14,108ft before descending into the lush, fertile Vilcanota Valley. As we approach Cusco, we enter the Huatanay Valley, traveling the final stretch into the city.

Known as the archaeological capital of South America, Cusco and its surrounding region are rich in cultural and historical treasures that rival any in the Old World.

Cusco is not only a city of historical significance but also a vibrant, exciting destination with a wide array of restaurants and a lively nightlife scene. While tourism is now the city’s main economic driver, it also remains a key market town for the surrounding farming communities, with street markets offering a vast range of highland and jungle products.

The city itself is a beautiful blend of Inca stonework and elegant Spanish colonial architecture. According to legend, Cusco was founded around AD 1100 by Manco Capac, the first Inca king, and his sister-queen, Mama Ocllo, who were sent by the Sun god (Inti) and the Moon goddess to earth at Lake Titicaca to civilize humanity. Their journey led them to Cusco, where Manco Capac plunged his staff into the ground, marking the founding of the Inca Empire’s capital.

Archaeological evidence suggests that for several centuries, the Inca tribes stayed close to Cusco, with little interest in expansion. It wasn’t until the reign of Pachacutec, the ninth Inca Emperor, in 1438, that the Inca Empire began its dramatic expansion, making Cusco the heart of a vast empire.

Pachacutec also oversaw the design of Cusco as the imperial capital, with Huacaypata, the large central plaza, serving as the site for important ceremonies. The city was surrounded by the luxurious palaces of Inca kings, and the characteristic interlocking stonework of Inca structures can still be seen today.

When Francisco Pizarro and the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Peru, Cusco was the thriving capital of the Inca Empire. However, a civil war within the ruling family made the conquest relatively easy for the Spanish. Though they were awestruck by the grandeur of Cusco, the Spanish soon looted the city for its treasures.

From Pizarro’s arrival until 1572, Cusco witnessed numerous battles of native resistance, as well as power struggles between the colonists. Manco Inca, appointed by the Spanish as ruler, soon recognized he was a puppet and led a rebellion against the city in 1536. Despite a valiant siege, the Spanish broke free and reclaimed Cusco. The Incas retreated to Vilcabamba, in the remote mountains to the north.
The last Inca leader, Tupac Amaru, was captured by the Spanish and executed in Cusco in 1572, marking the end of Inca resistance.

Free day in Cusco.

We pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco, gathering all other trekkers before embarking on a scenic bus ride. The journey takes you through the highland villages of Chinchero, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, offering stunning views of the Cordillera Urubamba mountain range and the snow-capped peak of Veronica (5,860m/19,225ft). The drive lasts about three hours and is a perfect introduction to the breathtaking landscapes that await.

Most of our groups consist of up to 16 trekkers, guided by an experienced English-speaking leader and an assistant guide. Our trekkers come from all over the world, with a wide range of ages.

We begin the trek at Chilca, where we head down to the trailhead. After your tickets are checked and signed in, we cross the bridge and follow the path gently along the riverbank. Soon, we begin the gradual ascent through a eucalyptus grove towards Llactapata, the first significant archaeological site along the trail. The ruins here feature impressive retaining walls that have transformed the steep hillside into expansive agricultural terraces, offering an extraordinary sight.

Just below Llactapata, the Río Cusichaca, a tributary of the Urubamba River, plunges dramatically into the earth, running through a subterranean channel for some distance. The trail then climbs steeply from the ruins over a low pass, marking the start of our hike up the valley.

After about an hour, you cross a bridge that brings you to the other side of the valley. Another half hour of walking will bring you to the village of Huayllabamba (3,000m/9,843ft), where you will be greeted with refreshing cold drinks, a welcome relief after the heat of the day.

The first night will be spent camping at Huayllabamba, where basic facilities are provided.

First night camp with basic facilities.

Distance:    11.1km/6.9 miles

Highest point:  2,912m/9,554ft

Starting altitude:   2,753m/9,032ft

Finishing altitude:     2,885m/9,466ft

Height gained:   398m/1,306ft

Height lost:    302m/991ft

After breaking camp, we set out with our sights firmly set on the day’s main challenge – Dead Woman’s Pass.

Our route begins through the woods, starting with scrub and then transitioning into the enchanting cloud forest, where trees are draped in moss, creating a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere. The lush surroundings may help distract from the relentless uphill climb, with no sign of a break in sight.

As you ascend, the trees gradually become shorter and more sparse, leading you to Llulluchapampa, a meadow where the path levels out. The journey from The Forks to this meadow takes about two hours. This marks the last campsite before reaching Abra de Huarmihuañusqa, or Dead Woman’s Pass (4,198m/13,773ft), which lies ahead.

From here, it’s another 90-minute climb to the top of the pass – the highest point on the trail. Conquer this, and you’ll be ready for any of the other passes ahead. Take a moment to admire the panoramic views, and you’ll spot the circular ruins of Runkuracay just below the next pass.

The descent is steep, but manageable. Follow the trail along the left side of the valley, leading you down to the valley floor and our next campsite at Pacamayo (3,600m/11,811ft).

There are a few basic huts nearby, equipped with toilets and sinks, built by the INC. We’ll camp here for the night, resting after a challenging but rewarding day.

Camp for the evening.

Distance:                     12.3km/7.7 miles

Highest point:             4,222m/13,852ft

Starting altitude:        2,885m/9,466ft

Finishing altitude:       3,603m/11,821ft

Height gained:            1,361m/4,465ft

Height lost:                 613m/2,011ft

From Runkuracay, the path becomes clearer as we ascend to the second pass, Abra de Runkuracay (4,000m/13,123ft). Excitingly, much of the trail follows original Inca steps. The descent can be steep, so it’s important to proceed with caution.

Just before the trail turns to the right, you’ll see a sign for Sayacmarca. Located about an hour from the top of the pass, the name translates to ‘the Inaccessible or Secret City,’ which is fitting. You’ll approach Sayacmarca via a beautifully crafted stone staircase. While the main trail continues its gradual descent to the right, it’s worth making this detour – don’t let fatigue cause you to miss it.

As with many Inca sites, the true purpose of Sayacmarca remains a mystery. However, its features are remarkable: it sits on a precipice offering sweeping views, it lacks agricultural terraces, so it likely didn’t support many inhabitants, and it boasts ritual baths and an aqueduct running around its main wall. The curious stone rings set into the wall, paired with trapezoid openings, add to the intrigue. Whether or not you uncover the full story, the beauty of this site is undeniable.

The trail continues down to the valley floor, transforming into a stunning Inca road. Raised above the marshy ground, this road is paved with stones and bordered by cloud forest. The well-maintained stone steps and gentle gradient make for easy walking, and even if it rains, you’ll be in awe of the Inca engineering.

Before the ascent to the third pass, there is a campsite with basic toilet facilities. As you climb, you’ll pass through two Inca tunnels, and on clear days, you’ll be treated to views of Salkantay on your left. The pass itself (3,700m/12,139ft) also offers a camping spot, though it tends to get crowded, and water sources are a bit lower down.

A couple of hours after leaving Sayacmarca, you’ll reach the impressive ruins of Phuyupatamarca. These ruins can be accessed via a steep flight of stairs. Water channels carved into the rock run through the site, feeding five baths that cascade down the hill. You may camp here if you choose.

An Inca staircase descends from the west side of the ruins, disappearing into the jungle. This stairway leads down a thousand steps—an intense but rewarding descent, though it might leave your knees feeling the strain.

Finally, the trek brings you to the campsite near the ruins of Huiñay Huayna (Wiñay Wayna), the last stop before Machu Picchu. It’s a popular spot, so it can get crowded. The campsite has basic facilities, including toilets and running water.

Just below the campsite, you’ll find Huiñay Huayna, a large and well-preserved ruin that sits in an incredibly scenic location. The site is known for its impressive stonework and beautiful setting, and its mysterious atmosphere offers a contrast to the more crowded Machu Picchu.

Distance:                     12.9km/8 miles

Highest point:             3,893m/12,772ft

Starting altitude:        3,603m/11,821ft

Finishing altitude:       2,732m/8,962ft

Height gained:             1,185m/3,888ft

Height lost:                 1,345m/4,413ft

Distance:                     7.9km/4.9 miles

On arrival at Machu Picchu, you’ll have ample time to take photographs of this breath-taking site. Afterward, we’ll walk through the ruins to the main entrance, where you can leave your backpacks in a secure area. There are also restrooms and a restaurant just outside the entrance where you can grab a drink.

We’ll then re-enter the site for a guided tour, covering the major sectors of Machu Picchu. The tour typically lasts around two hours, and by mid-morning, you’ll have free time to explore the ruins on your own.

The train back to Cusco departs from Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu, at approximately 16:30, and you’ll return to Cusco around 21:00. To ensure you have enough time to explore the site, we recommend taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes no later than 15:30 (times may vary, so check with your guide). Buses run every 15 minutes.Aguas Calientes offers a wide variety of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. For relaxation, you can also visit the local hot springs, which are famous in the area and a great way to soothe any sore muscles after the trek. The entrance to the hot springs is US$5, and we suggest setting aside a couple of hours to enjoy them fully.

Highest point:             2,739m/8,988ft

Starting altitude:        2,732m/8,962ft

Finishing altitude:       2,452m/8,046ft

Height gained:              311m/1,020ft

Height lost:                 377m/1,237ft

Regulations (August 2011) mean that the number of visitors to Machu Picchu is limited to 2,500 people per day. This means that you must pre-book your entrance to the site. The entry ticket cannot be purchased in Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu pueblo but must be bought in advance (by us) in Cusco.

On the 5 day Inca Trail if you wish to visit the site on your last day (day 5) you will need to reserve and pay for your entrance ticket at the time of booking. The cost is USD 80 per person.

If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, places now also have to be pre/booked and come at an additional cost.

Machu Picchu mountain has to be climbed before 11am, and there are two departure times for Huayna Picchu:

Group 1 (G1): 0700 – 0800

Group 2 (G2): 1000 – 1100

The price is USD 80 including the entrance fee to Machu Picchu.

Enjoy a free day in Cusco.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous than shopping, you have the option to go white water rafting on the Urubamba River for an exciting day out.

Today we fly down to Lima, where the tour ends .

Peru is the perfect holiday destination for adventure travellers that want an amazing variety of activity, geography and cultural travel experiences.

The breadth of travel experiences in Peru is breathtaking – from trekking in the Andes to Machu Picchu to the tropical jungle of the Amazon, and plenty in between.

The people of Peru make it a special destination too, with its colourful and traditional street life and friendly locals.

Peru is made up of 3 distinct geographical areas: the coast, the mountains and the jungle.

The costa or coastal region is a narrow ribbon of desert 2,250 km long, crossed by fertile river valleys flowing from the Andes. It takes up 11% of the country and holds more than 40% of the population.

The cold Humboldt current gives rise to a blanket of mist – the garua – which hangs above coastal cities like the capital Lima from May to November.

Heading east, you’re soon climbing above the garua and into the Andes. The sierra, or mountainous region, covers some 25% of Peru’s territory and contains 50% of the population. The sierra inhabitants are mainly Indigenous or Mestizo, and many still speak Quechua or Aymara.

The sierra contains dozens of 6,000-metre snow peaks and volcanoes, including Huascaran (6,768m) the highest mountain in the tropics. The deep valley basins contain most of the towns and arable land; the terracing and canal systems of the Incas and pre-Incas are often still used today.

The eastern Andes are heavily forested up to 3,350m and sweep down into the Amazon Basin.

Peru’s selva or jungle makes up almost two thirds of the country’s area, but holds only about 6% of the population: the only towns with significant populations are Iquitos and Pucallpa.

You can also read about the weather of Peru in our blog.

Peru is located in the southern tropics (latitudes 0º to 18º), but climate varies significantly according to season, altitude and region.

Lima & the coast

From May to October, Lima is often overcast, but with minimal precipitation. There are sunny spells, and it’s a fresh to pleasant 13-20ºC.

At the same time, inland  areas and the north coast mid to high 20’s ºC.

November to April is generally warm and sunny and Lima enjoys warm temperature of 19-25ºC, with the coast averaging 22-30ºC.

The Andes

Climate depends largely on altitude. As a rule of thumb, below 2,000m climate is mild and above 2,000m warm clothing is required for evenings, nights and early mornings.

The Andean sun is very strong.

May to Oct (dry season in The Andes)

Cusco (3,300m): Average max/min temps: 22ºC /2ºC. Average 3 or 4 wet days per month.

Arequipa (2,380m): Average max/min temps: 26ºC /9ºC. Sunny more than 340 days/year with minimal precipitation.

On highland treks: Conditions are generally dry. However, at this time of year, expect a range of conditions within a single day: cold/freezing nights at camps above 4,000m, where pre-dawn temperatures can be -5ºC; warm, spring-like mornings and afternoons; and cold evenings.

Note that mountain weather can be fickle and localised, and that precipitation is not unknown in the dry season. Expect temperatures to swing between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground and with altitude gain and loss. A quick-setting sun means temperatures drop fast.

In the cloud forest, e.g. around Machu Picchu, daytime conditions are generally warm or hot, and evenings cool.

Nov to March/April (wet season in The Andes)

Cusco: Average max/min temps: 23ºC /6ºC. Average 13 wet days per month.

Arequipa: Average max/min temps: 25ºC /14ºC.

On highland treks: Wetter conditions, with cooler days and milder nights than dry season. Jan-Mar usually the wettest months.

The Amazon rainforest

Year-round, weather conditions are hot and humid and there is always the risk of rain

There is a ‘dry season’ in Tambopata and Manu between May and October. The average daytime high temperature is between 25°C and 34°C and the average nighttime low is between 16°C and 22°C. Heavy downpours typically occur every few days.

Around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Manu and Tambopata and 1,400 mm in Iquitos – occurs in the wet season Nov-April.

On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – ‘friajes’ – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9° C. (Friajes usually last between 1 and 3 days).

Good kit is vital for every trip.

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Overview

When planning for the varied climatic conditions you will encounter across Peru, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system.

The sun is very strong throughout the country, so good sun cream, a hat and sunglasses are vital.

It can also get very cold at night time especially in the mountains. Jumpers, fleeces and warms hats – which you can buy there – are also essential.

Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.

Below is a more detailed guide.

Detailed kit list

• Medium weight parka or a down jacket.
• Waterproof jacket and trousers. The jacket needs to be water proof and roomy. Side-zip pants are recommended.
• 2-3 long-sleeve shirts – no cotton
• 2-3 short-sleeve T-shirts – no cotton
• 2 pair of hiking trousers- cotton or synthetic material (no jeans)
• 1 fleece or sweat trousers (for cold evenings)
• 2 pair hiking shorts
• Long thermals – synthetic or wool – light to medium weight top & bottoms.
• 2-3 mid-weight (wool or synthetic) socks.
• 2-3 liner socks if needed
• Athletic-type socks, several pairs, city use
• Hiking boots that are waterproof and well broken-in.
• Running/tennis shoes or sandals are very comfortable when you are in cities
• 1 lightweight wool sweater or windproof fleece
• 1 wool or synthetic warm hat.
• 1 light sun hat with a wide brim.
• 1 pair of medium-weight wool or synthetic gloves
• Broad-brimmed sunhat, essential.
• Sunglasses with UV filter.
• Scarf for cold.
• Bandanna – to protect neck from strong sun.
• Daypack (at least 30 litres). Comfortable and with waterproof lining or cover.
• Water bottle (2 litres approx.) & purification tablets.
• Personal first-aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-biotic cream, general antibiotics (ask your GP), after-bite (tiger balm), anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication.
• Insect repellent (just in case)
• Towel & wash-kit.
• Wet Wipes/antiseptic hand-wash cream.
• Sunscreen (factor 30+) and lip salve.
• Head-lamp (plus spare bulb and batteries).
• Penknife.
• Travel alarm clock.
• Plastic bags – ‘Zip-loc’ & tough bin liners.
• Camera and film / memory cards (take at least twice the amount you think you will need!).
• Book, e-book, mp3 player/ipod or other to help pass the time.
• Binoculars.
• Spanish/English phrasebook.
• Extra snacks i.e. cereal bars or favourite chocolate bars.

Miscellaneous others

• Money belt.
• Passport.
• U.S. dollars cash, mixed-denomination notes, undamaged and unmarked.
• ATM cash/credit card.
• Any inoculation certificates.
• Personal & medical insurance certificates.
• Presents e.g. Postcards from home.
• Comfortable clothes for travel, smart clothes for night life.

Andean Trails has 25 years of experience of putting together the best South America holidays.

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And  ‘air package holiday’ is defined as including a flight and some ground services (hotel, transfer, trek etc). This is also known as an ‘ATOL-protected holiday’.

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For land only holidays not involving any air travel, in accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992”, all UK passengers booking with Andean Trails Ltd. are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all money paid to us, arising from cancellation or curtailment of travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Andean Trails.

I’m not ATOL covered, what protection do I have?

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