Peru: Across The Andes to Machu Picchu
Group Tour
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Overview
Journey on this captivating adventure across Peru, discovering mesmerising ancient sites, breathtaking Andean landscapes and exceptional culinary delights. Beginning in Lima with its colonial landmarks and renowned cuisine, we'll then fly to Arequipa, known as the "White City," to explore its stunning architecture and historic monasteries. From here we journey to the spectacular Colca Canyon, where we witness the majestic Andean condors, and unwind in thermal baths.
Passing through picturesque ...
Journey on this captivating adventure across Peru, discovering mesmerising ancient sites, breathtaking Andean landscapes and exceptional culinary delights. Beginning in Lima with its colonial landmarks and renowned cuisine, we'll then fly to Arequipa, known as the "White City," to explore its stunning architecture and historic monasteries. From here we journey to the spectacular Colca Canyon, where we witness the majestic Andean condors, and unwind in thermal baths.
Passing through picturesque villages and marvelling at natural wonders, we follow in the footsteps of many before us as we walk along a small section of the ancient Inca Trail en route to the Sacred Valley, visiting ancient temples and vibrant local communities along the way. Here we soak up the Sacred Valley's treasures, including the Maras salt mines, Moray's agricultural terraces, and Misminay's traditional culture.
From Ollantaytambo's impressive fortress we then travel by train to the iconic Machu Picchu, taking our time to enjoy one of the world’s most revered ancient sites. We conclude our journey in Cusco, where we explore the colourful San Pedro Market, the historic Koricancha Temple, the majestic Sacsayhuaman fortress, and the city's grand Cathedral.
HIGHLIGHTS
At a glance
MEALS
TRANSPORT
GROUP SIZE
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
ENTRANCE FEES
FITNESS RATING
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience. This can obviously vary greatly across both countries and tours. On this particular trip we will be in beautiful modern and heritage hotels. Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.FITNESS RATING
LOW: You should be comfortable walking around towns and cultural sites. May include some optional walks (typically 1-2hrs).LOW/MODERATE: May be of a long duration and/or involve numerous border-crossings. May include easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-3hrs/day). You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle.
MODERATE: May include several easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-5hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle. Previous experience of similar trips helpful.
MODERATE/HIGH: May involve several days of moderate hiking (up to 3-6 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
HIGH: May involve several days of moderate/strenuous trekking (up to 4-7 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a very fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
Map & Itinerary
Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below
Day 1 Tour starts in Lima: Introduction & Religious Landmarks
Day 1 Tour starts in Lima: Introduction & Religious Landmarks
With an early check-in included for anyone arriving into Lima in the morning, there will be time to freshen up after what, for many people, may have been a long journey. After a welcome meeting we'll then head out this afternoon to discover Lima's colonial history through its remarkable religious landmarks in the UNESCO historic centre, including the Cathedral of Lima in the Plaza de Armas, the iconic Convent of Santo Domingo, and the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, renowned for its majestic Baroque façade and rich interior, including the intricately carved main altar, the haunting catacombs, and the museum filled with colonial-era religious art. These sites not only reflect Lima's deep religious roots but also showcase the impressive artistry and architecture of the colonial era. This evening we then enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 2 Lima - Arequipa: Ancient Roots & Culinary Delights
Day 2 Lima - Arequipa: Ancient Roots & Culinary Delights
This morning we immerse ourselves in the historical richness of Huaca Pucllana, an archaeological gem in the heart of Lima. Here we explore its various fronts, passages, and rooms while observing the hard work of archaeologists who to this day are still uncovering ceramics and other artefacts, showcased in the on-site museum. Late morning we then embark on a culinary journey through one of Lima's most iconic districts, Barranco. Led by expert local hosts, we'll stroll through its bohemian streets, savouring the best of Peruvian cuisine, and learning about the historical and cultural significance of each ingredient and preparation. Late afternoon we catch our flight to Arequipa, where we transfer to our hotel for the evening.
Day 3 Arequipa: White City Highlights
Day 3 Arequipa: White City Highlights
We explore the heart of Arequipa this morning, including the Yanahuara and Carmen Alto viewpoints, offering breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding volcanoes - Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. We visit the historic centre and the Main Square, founded in 1540, and admire the ‘White City's’ distinctive white ashlar stone buildings, including the neo-Renaissance Cathedral. Here we navigate old cobbled streets to discover other historic churches, reflecting on the city's colonial heritage. We conclude with a visit to one of the most iconic sites in the city - the Monastery of Santa Catalina, exploring its colourful cloisters, internal plazas, and rooms adorned with beautiful canvases from the Cusco School. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is free to relax or explore at leisure.
Day 4 Arequipa – Colca Canyon: Volcanoes, Wetlands & Thermal Baths
Day 4 Arequipa – Colca Canyon: Volcanoes, Wetlands & Thermal Baths
We embark on an unforgettable journey to the magnificent Colca Canyon today. Our journey begins with a scenic drive through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where we encounter a rich tapestry of Andean flora and fauna. Ascending to 4,000 metres above sea level, we are treated to panoramic views of the majestic Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes towering over the rugged landscape and dramatic stone forests. We pass through the picturesque Pampa de Toccra, a haven for alpacas and vibrant birdlife, including the graceful flamingos. At the Andes viewpoint of Patapampa, standing at an impressive 4,910 metres, we can marvel at the breathtaking sight of the famed "circle of fire" formed by eight imposing volcanoes. After enjoying a lunch of local culinary delights in Chivay, a small town nestled near the canyon, we'll have the chance to unwind in the therapeutic waters of La Calera thermal baths. Fed by the Cotallumi volcano, these soothing springs provide the perfect retreat to relax and rejuvenate amidst the natural wonders of the region.
Day 5 Colca Canyon: Condors & Cultural Heritage
Day 5 Colca Canyon: Condors & Cultural Heritage
Today is dedicated to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons. Starting early to capture the essence of this natural wonder, we'll wind along scenic roads surrounded by majestic landscapes. Our first stop is the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where we can look out for the magnificent Andean condor, an emblematic species of the region. Continuing on we visit the picturesque town of Pinchollo, nestled in the heart of the Colca Canyon, as well as the charming village of Wayra Punku. At the Antahuilque viewpoint, we can observe the amphitheatre-shaped agricultural terraces and serene lagoons that surround this renowned valley, offering stunning panoramic views. We soon reach the historic town of Maca, famed for its beautiful church adorned in mestizo baroque style, a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. After lunch, this afternoon we set off on the Uyo Uyo hike, a scenic 1-2 hr trail leading to archaeological wonders and panoramic viewpoints. We’ll have the opportunity to explore the abandoned village of Uyo Uyo, once the capital of Colca, and uncover the remnants of ancient Collagua and Inca civilizations, including their intricate irrigation systems. As the day draws to a close, we soak in the panoramic views from Uyo Uyo before returning to our hotel for a second night.
Day 6 Colca Canyon - Sicuani: Villages, Castles & Lagoons
Day 6 Colca Canyon - Sicuani: Villages, Castles & Lagoons
Today's drive is long (approx 6hrs) but takes us on a less-frequented route across the mighty Andean range. We start by ascending through the upper reaches of the Colca Canyon, passing through picturesque villages, and visiting the wonderful Callalli castles - awe-inspiring rock formations which resemble medieval fortresses set against the rugged landscape, sculpted by centuries of water and wind erosion. We then pass near the 'Condoroma dam', reaching an elevation of 4737 metres above sea level, as well as the serene 'Langui lagoon', spanning 25 kilometres and offering a breathtaking natural mirror reflecting the surrounding beauty. Having enjoyed a picnic lunch en route, we arrive in the altiplano town of Sicuani in the afternoon where we can enjoy some downtime before dinner.
Day 7 Sicuani – Sacred Valley: Along the Inca Trail
Day 7 Sicuani – Sacred Valley: Along the Inca Trail
This morning we will be driven to the charming village of Saywas de Qquea, the gateway to a short hike along a lesser known part of the historic Inca Trail. Guided by the knowledgeable members of the Inka Roots Experiential Tourism Association, we delve into local traditions and captivating legends as we traverse this ancient path. Our journey will lead us to the awe-inspiring temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, a majestic tribute to the revered Andean god. Continuing our hike along the Qhapac Ñan, meaning ‘royal road’ in Quechua, we soon reach Chaskiwasi, where our transport awaits to take us on to the enchanting Sacred Valley. We’ll stop en route in the beautiful town of Pisac for a leisurely lunch, before continuing on to our hotel located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, where we can enjoy some time to relax or explore at leisure.
Approx. 1.5hrs walking (0m ascent, 0m descent. Total distance 2.5km)
Day 8 Sacred Valley: Maras, Moray & Misminay
Day 8 Sacred Valley: Maras, Moray & Misminay
Today we explore the three jewels of the Sacred Valley - Maras, Moray, and Misminay. We begin with a stunning panoramic view of the ancient Maras salt mines, home to nearly 3,000 salt pools that have been a vital economic resource since Inca times. Marvel at the intricate mosaic of terraces and ponds, a paradise for photography enthusiasts, and witness the ongoing collection of Maras salt, renowned as one of the finest in the world. Next, we delve into the fascinating Moray archaeological site, an impressive structure resembling a natural amphitheatre. Once a sophisticated agricultural research centre during the Tahuantinsuyo era, Moray's enormous concentric terraces created diverse microclimates, enabling the cultivation of various crops. We explore this ingenious Inca laboratory and uncover the secrets of ancient agricultural techniques, before our final visit to the traditional community of Misminay. Here we can enjoy traditional music and dances, and participate in daily activities such as planting, harvesting, and textile work, gaining a deeper appreciation for the vibrant culture and traditions of the Andean people.
Day 9 Sacred Valley: Pumamarca & Ollantaytambo Hike
Day 9 Sacred Valley: Pumamarca & Ollantaytambo Hike
Experience the Sacred Valley on foot as we embark on a memorable hike, tracing the footsteps of the ancient Inca inhabitants, soaking up stunning landscapes and Inca heritage. We begin at the archaeological site of Pumamarca, an impressive Inca fortress perched atop a hill for strategic advantage. Here we can admire the preserved stone platforms and aqueducts, testaments to the Incas' ingenuity in agriculture and irrigation. From Pumamarca, we hike towards Ollantaytambo, a former military, religious, and agricultural hub of the Inca Empire. Nestled on a mountainside, the site’s imposing fortress is testament to the Inca’s power at that time, and here we explore the main temple, terraces, and fountains while soaking in breathtaking views of the town below, the only one preserving the original Inca urban layout. After exploring the historical treasures of the town, we enjoy a well-earned picnic amidst the idyllic scenery, before returning to our hotel for the evening.
Approx. 2-3hrs walking (160m ascent, 540m descent. Total distance 7km)
Day 10 Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu by train
Day 10 Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu by train
We set off today to one of the world's most iconic landmarks - Machu Picchu. Our journey begins with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, a journey brimming with the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes as we enjoy 360° views. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, a short bus ride will bring us to the foot of the legendary Inca citadel. Explore the ancient ruins of this great wonder with the help of our knowledgeable guide, uncovering the rich history and intriguing mysteries of this mystical site. We return to Aguas Calientes for some lunch and an afternoon at leisure.
Day 11 Machu Picchu - Cusco
Day 11 Machu Picchu - Cusco
This morning will be free to enjoy some free time in Aguas Calientes or to pay a second visit to Machu Picchu.* After lunch at a local restaurant, we then take our train back to Ollantaytambo, from where we transfer on to Cusco by road.
*Please see SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for more details about revisiting Machu Picchu as all additional visits need to be requested, paid for and reserved well in advance
Day 12 Cusco: Historical Highlights
Day 12 Cusco: Historical Highlights
On our final morning we enjoy a tour of Cusco, where Andean and Spanish history, culture, and art intertwine harmoniously. We begin at the vibrant San Pedro Market, originally built in 1925 and designed by Gustave Eiffel. To this day the market, which is the oldest in the city, is still brimming with stalls selling regional products and it’s a great place to observe daily life in the city. From here we visit the Koricancha Temple, once a revered Inca worship site dedicated to the Sun. This temple, later transformed into the Santo Domingo Convent by Spanish colonisers, showcases the beautiful blend of baroque architecture atop solid Inca foundations, epitomizing Cusco's cultural syncretism. Ascending to the majestic Sacsayhuaman fortress, here we can admire the impressive carved stone walls, a testament to the ingenuity of Inca military architecture. Finally, we conclude our tour at Cusco's iconic Cathedral. Built upon the palace of the Inca Huiracocha, this grand structure houses an exquisite collection of colonial art, including goldsmith works and paintings from the renowned Cusco School of Art. This afternoon is then free to relax or explore at leisure, before a final farewell dinner this evening at a wonderful local restaurant.
Day 13 Tour ends in Cusco
Day 13 Tour ends in Cusco
The tour ends today after breakfast. Those on the suggested group flights will be transferred to the airport in time for their onward journeys.
ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR
INNSiDE Lima Miraflores by Melia, Lima
INNSiDE Lima Miraflores by Melia is a modern hotel located in the vibrant Miraflores district of Lima, close to key attractions. The hotel offers contemporary rooms equipped with amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, rain showers, minibars, and coffee machines. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and the Cataleya Rooftop Bar, which serves light meals and signature cocktails. The 352 Gastrobar offers a fusion of Peruvian and international cuisine in a chic setting.
Hotel San Agustin Posada Monasterio, Arequipa
Hotel San Agustín Posada del Monasterio in Arequipa is a charming 18th-century sillar mansion, centrally located opposite the Santa Catalina Convent. This beautifully restored hotel blends historic architecture with modern comforts, offering spacious rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and room service. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, a variety of Peruvian and international dishes at the elegant restaurant, and a selection of drinks at the rustic bar. This is a great base from which to wander Arequipa's cobbled streets and discover its hidden treasures.
Colca Lodge, Colca Canyon
Located at 3,250 above sea level and three-and-a-half hours from Arequipa on the banks of the River Colca, Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs is surrounded by hundreds of pre-Incan terraces declared part of Peru’s cultural heritage. Boasting relaxing thermal springs rich in lithium and a tranquil spa right on the hotel’s grounds, it makes for the perfect place to unwind after a busy itinerary. The only real contender for an overnight option in the valley, the lodge is around an hour from the famed Condor’s Cross. After exploring the canyon, guests will welcome retiring back to a wonderful feast at the restaurant, followed by some downtime in one of the 45 rooms which offer simplicity with a bit of character facing the river and valley. There is also a short hike right from the hotel’s doorstep to a small pre-Inca archaeological site. The British owner is deeply involved in conservation efforts within the country, and proceeds go towards funding various community projects and encouraging responsible tourism in Peru.
Wilkamayu Hotel, Sicuani
The boutique Wilkamayu Hotel can be found in the little-heard-about city of Sicuani, 139 kilometres from notorious Cusco. The hotel has been built from a restored family house and with this in mind aims to provide a homely feeling of comfort with personable service. The 23 simple but stylish rooms surrounding the grassy central courtyard provide a pleasant stay with wrought-iron and smooth wood furniture and light, warm décor. Décor throughout the hotel reflects Andean history and culture with local textiles. Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed at the intimate, on-site restaurant or head to the Candelaria Coffee Bar to grab a drink. Guests are not confined to their rooms for a place to lounge as the hotel also has two living rooms, one with a chimney, and outdoor patio seating. Although admittedly there isn’t much to see in town, the town centre is only around a 20-minute stroll away.
Inti Punku Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley
Inti Punku Valle Sagrado Hotel is located in Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley. This property offers modern comforts as well as traditional Peruvian charm and decor. and provides the perfect place to rest amongst breezy lush gardens surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. Rooms are spacious and well-equipped, and there is a charming on site restaurant to enjoy both local and international dishes.
El Mapi By Inkaterra, Aguas Calientes
The four-star sister hotel to the high-end Inkaterra chain, El Mapi is a comfortable, modern hotel located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, on one of the town's main pedestrian streets. With 130 rooms, the hotel isn’t small but certainly manages to create a boutique feeling. Rooms are contemporary, and the white décor dotted with splashes of green creates a fresh, tropical atmosphere inspired by the surrounding cloud forest. After a day hiking, guests can treat themselves to the spa and hot tub looking out over the forest-engulfed town, followed by a gourmet Peruvian dinner at the stylish restaurant. True to its Inkaterra nature, small touches such as a complimentary pisco sour and a la carte dinner on your first evening, as well as an early comprehensive buffet breakfast, make your stay that bit extra special.
Casa Andina Premium Cusco, Cusco
A beautiful, refurbished 18th century mansion with four magnificent colonial courtyards, only three blocks from Cusco's Main Square. The hotel is remarkable for its large interior courtyards with wooden balconies. The central courtyard has a stone fountain and is one of the most emblematic of the colonial era in Cusco. The hotel's 94 rooms are removed from the street and ring three interior colonial-style, courtyards with wooden balconies. Rooms categories include Superior, Suites and Imperial Suites and supplemental oxygen is available in most rooms of the hotel. The Superior rooms occupy adjoining colonial-style modern structures around two interior patios, while the Suites and Imperial Suites are located in the hotel's original colonial manor house and open onto the principal courtyard.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.
PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?
All group tours can be taken on a private basis.
Additional Details
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Reducing Single Use Plastic
We recognise the environmental issues and challenges around single-use plastic in many countries we visit and are actively working with our partners on the ground to reduce plastic waste on our tours and within the hotels and restaurants we visit. You can help to reduce your personal plastic waste by taking a refillable, filtered water bottle with you on your trip. Filtered water bottles can be refilled from water sources including your hotel room and restaurant taps, drinking fountains and refill stations. Every time you refill your bottle without the use of single-use plastic, you will be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. Filtered Water Bottles | Wild Frontiers (wildfrontierstravel.com)
Supporting Community Based Tourism In The Andes
In conjunction with our Peruvian partners we are happy to support the inhabitants of the Andean community of Misminay who have developed a series of community tourism projects which have in turn led to a significant improvement in their quality of life. Our visit to Misminay not only benefits local families financially but it allows us to enjoy some wonderful home-cooked food and to experience and learn more about their culture and traditions.
Supplementary Information
Revisiting Machu Picchu
In order to help preserve the site of Machu Picchu and manage visitor numbers, all access to the site is strictly controlled with tickets needing to be booked often months in advance.
The tour includes one visit to the main site of Machu Picchu. Should you wish to return for a second visit, your options are as below:-
1 - Classic visit £85 (or non-GBP equivalent)
2 - Huayna Picchu Mountain hike* £95 (or non-GBP equivalent)
3 - Machu Picchu Mountain hike** £95 (or non-GBP equivalent)
All these prices are for un-guided visits including transport to/from Machu Picchu citadel from the nearby town of Aguas Calientes where we'll be staying.
All entrances are subject to availability, must must be pre-paid at time of booking and are non-refundable. If you change your passport between your time of booking and prior to travel please take your original passport with you otherwise you may not be permitted entrance to the citadel.
Revisiting Machu Picchu (continued)
Please note that visits 2 and 3 should be considered to be for experienced trekkers only.
*The Huayna Picchu Mountain hike is considered to be of moderate/high difficulty involving steep trails including stairways built in rock and wood, exposed walkways and is not suitable for anyone with vertigo or a fear of heights.
Approx. 1.5 hrs walking (265m ascent, 265m descent. Total distance 4kms)
**The Machu Picchu Mountain hike is also considered to be of moderate/high difficulty but although longer in distance, involves wider and less steep trails than Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Approx. 3.5hrs walking (650m ascent, 650m descent. Total distance 6kms)
Getting There
If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below.
If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.
| Flight Code | Departing | Arriving |
|---|---|---|
| AV 121 | London Heathrow (LHR) 22:05 | Bogota Airport (BOG) 02:55 |
| AV 049 | Bogota Airport (BOG) 06:25 | Lima Airport (LIM) 09:30 |
| AV 104 | Cuzco Airport (CUZ) 16:30 | Bogota Airport (BOG) 19:55 |
| AV 120 | Bogota Airport (BOG) 23:25 | London Heathrow (LHR) 15:35 |
Visas & Vaccinations
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders do not require a visa for Peru. However, those who choose to transit the USA will require a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver. If travelling on a British passport, you should just need an ESTA.
NB. Please note that as of January 2016 US policy (subject to change) has stated that anyone wishing to travel to or via the USA must have a biometric passport. In addition, anyone who has travelled to several countries including Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Cuba, Yemen or Somalia since March 2011, is required to apply for a US visa (rather than just an ESTA). If you are affected by this, the process is fairly straightforward and you can read more about it here - www.wildfrontierstravel.com/us-visa
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Peru.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
Malaria and Yellow Fever are present in some parts of Peru and precautions are essential.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Extensions
If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Alternatively, you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration.
The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries*. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your requirements.
*Please note bespoke, tailor-made itineraries need to be a minimum of 7 days and we can only offer them in countries where we have a tailor-made expert
Governmental Travel Advice
Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department.
Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.
Key Information
CLIMATE
Peru's diverse climate varies across its regions. Lima has a mild desert climate with warm summers and cooler, overcast winters. The Sacred Valley and Cusco have a subtropical highland climate with a dry season from April to October, featuring sunny days and cool nights, and a rainy season typically from mid-November to late March. Colca Canyon experiences a similar highland climate with higher daytime temperatures during the dry season and chilly nights. Machu Picchu enjoys warm days and cool nights during the dry season, with heavy rainfall in the rainy season.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
It may sound obvious but Wild Frontiers tours are not always for everyone and it is important to us that the tour you choose is the most suitable. All our tours have a fitness rating as a guideline but you should check the day-by-day itinerary carefully. In certain instances we may ask you to complete a travel questionnaire before confirming your booking in order to ensure your suitability. Should you have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour then please contact the office.
KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour. However, please note that access to many of the mountain sites involve walks along trails varying in duration from a few minutes to a few hours. Whilst all walks can be opted out of, you should ensure you are in as good a state of health as possible in order to get the most out of the trip.
We also will reach heights that could trigger altitude sickness (with the highest point being 4910m on the Patapampa Pass en route to Colca on DAY 4), so all travellers should be aware of this and take precautions, more information on which will be provided in the Pre-Departure Information documentation which is sent out nearer to the time of departure.
Please note that if you change your passport between your time of booking and prior to travel please advise us immediately and be sure to take your original passport with you as otherwise you may not be permitted entrance to Machu Picchu.
NEW TOURS
Never complacent, here at Wild Frontiers we are continually on the look-out for new tour ideas. Each year we aim to put on a selection of new tours in order to continually provide our clients with a fresh and varied choice of some of the best journeys on the planet. Although a lot of fun, these tours will often involve a greater element of unpredictability than our better-established tours, so please come prepared.
TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
INSURANCE
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
General Information
TOUR PRICE
All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.
DEPOSIT
A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking.
PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY
For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page
WILD MILES
This tour will earn you 12628 Wild Miles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY
If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.