Peru and Bolivia Machu Picchu to the Salt Flats

16 Days/15 Nights April - September Moderate

Peru is the country that can completely satisfy all human tastes, preferences and energy! The people there are extremely earthy, humble and kind - a mentality too close to the senses of much of humanity. It is unique to Peru - Nature, mysticism and unparalleled world cultural and historical heritage!

Lima is the capital: of Peru located on the arid Pacific coast of the country. Although its colonial center is preserved, it is an overflowing metropolis and one of the largest cities in South America. The Larco Museum houses a collection of pre-Columbian art and the Museum of the Nation traces the history of the ancient civilizations of Peru. The Plaza de Armas and the 16th century cathedral are the core of the old center of Lima.

The highlights:

Explore the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu with an expert guide.
Get creative with photo ops on the mirror-like landscapes of Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats.
Stay at an eco-lodge deep in the Amazon jungle, and spot wildlife with expert naturalists.
Experience life at a traditional Bolivian hacienda high in the Andes.

Bolivia is a country in central South America, with varied terrain from the Andes, the Atacama Desert and the rainforest in the Amazon basin. At more than 3,500 m high, its administrative capital, La Paz, is located in the Andes Highlands with the snowy hill Illimani in the background. Nearby is the crystalline Lake Titicaca, the largest on the continent, which extends along the border with Peru.

South America is filled with awe-inspiring wonders, and on this journey through Bolivia and Peru, you’ll experience an introduction to some of its highlights. Learn about Peru’s storied past in the former Inca capital of Cusco before immersing yourself in the Amazon during a stay in the heart of the jungle. Hike the Inca Trail—or catch the scenic train—to the ancient and endlessly fascinating Machu Picchu; then travel to Bolivia to see striking sights like the Uyuni Salt Flats and colonial cities surrounded by soaring Andean peaks. Join an unforgettable trip with us "Peru Expeditions Tours"

Travel Program

Itinerary:

Day 1: LIMA
Day 2: LIMA/TAMBOPATA
Day 3: TAMBOPATA
Day 4: TAMBOPATA/CUSCO
Day 5: CUSCO/URUBAMBA
Day 6: INCA TRAIL
Day 7: INCA TRAIL
Day 8: INCA TRAIL
Day 9: MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO
Day 10: CUSCO/LA PAZ
Day 11: LA PAZ/SUCRE
Day 12: POTOSI COUNTRYSIDE
Day 13: POTOSÍ/UYUNI
Day 14: UYUNI
Day 15: UYUNI/LA PAZ
Day 16: LA PAZ

Detailed Program

Day 1: LIMA
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included. Accommodations:Hotel Antigua Miraflores (Comfort) (or similar)

Day 2: LIMA/TAMBOPATA
Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by motorized canoe to the comfortable, intimate, and exclusive G Lodge Amazon located in the lush Tambopata Rainforest.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Tambopata G Lodge (or similar)

Day 3: TAMBOPATA
Enjoy guided jungle excursions led by expert naturalists to spot wildlife at nearby oxbow lakes, rivers, and clay licks. Take advantage of free time to relax or swim, and go on a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Tambopata G Lodge (or similar)

Day 4: TAMBOPATA/CUSCO
Travel by boat out of the jungle to Puerto Maldonado for a flight over the Andes and into the heart of Inca territory, Cusco. This evening, look to the night sky for a different view at the Cusco Planetarium. Enjoy a presentation on the southern sky, contemporary astronomy, and the ancient Incas’ relationship with the cosmos. Visit the on-site museum and use the telescopes to admire the stars.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Taypikala Hotel Cusco (or similar)

Day 5: CUSCO/URUBAMBA
Enjoy a full day exploring the Sacred Valley with a local guide. Tour the G Adventures-supported Parque de la Papa, or Potato Park, a network of rural agricultural communities working to preserve more than 700 species of potatoes. Learn about potato cultivation and traditional weaving, and the importance of each to Andean culture. Next, explore the Pisac ruins and visit the G Adventures-supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in the village of Huchuy Qosqo.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations:Villa Urubamba (or similar)

Day 6: INCA TRAIL
Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: INCA TRAIL
Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better 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 ample time to rest and relax.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: INCA TRAIL
Cross two more passes and ruins on today's trek. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a 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).
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Taypikala Machupicchu (or similar)

Day 9: MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO
The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. 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 and free time to explore until noon as permitted by the tourist ticket. Opt to visit the Inca Bridge, if time allows. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes to meet any non-hiking members of your group. Eat and relax before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Taypikala Hotel Cusco (or similar)

Day 10: CUSCO/LA PAZ
Catch a flight to one of the loftiest cities in the world, La Paz, Bolivia. In the afternoon, take an immersive city tour on foot, van, and by cable car exploring the “highest” capital in the world, surrounded by the stunning snow-capped Andes. Explore vibrant squares, historical sites, and lively local markets, learning more about the balance of old and new of this fascinating city. This evening, enjoy an interactive culinary experience at a popular local restaurant with demonstrations of how traditional foods such as quinoa are integrated into modern fusion dishes. With our local chef, we sample a variety of dishes and discuss the growing popularity of La Paz as a foodie destination.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Attix Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Day 11: LA PAZ/SUCRE
Catch a flight to charming Sucre, then enjoy an orientation walk around the main square with your CEO. This afternoon, relax at a local café, explore on your own, or opt to take an immersive city tour with a local expert that focuses on the stunning colonial architecture and historic sites, best viewed from the city’s ubiquitous rooftop terraces.
Meals Included:Breakfast
Optional Activities: Sucre Guided City Tour
Accommodations: Hotel Parador Santa Maria (or similar)

Day 12: POTOSI COUNTRYSIDE
Enjoy free time this morning before travelling into the southern highlands to our historic hacienda. Surrounded by lush farmlands and rolling hills, this working farm offers unique opportunities for cultural exchanges with the resident family. Get a glimpse into daily life here while taking part in demonstrations at the dairy and in the fields, and step back in time during visits to the property’s private rooms, chapel, and museum. Cap off your experience with an authentic farm-to-table dinner featuring specialities local to the area.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Museo Cayara (or similar)

Day 13: POTOSÍ/UYUNI
Make the short drive to the centre of Potosi and enjoy a guided tour of the Casa Nacional de la Moneda, the old silver mint and now a museum dedicated to Bolivian art and history. Take a scenic drive to Uyuni, gateway to the world's largest salt flat. Learn about the industrialization of salt and the geographical history of the region while driving across this mirror-like landscape. Enjoy a sunset picnic atop the flats before returning to our hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Luna Salada Hotel (or similar)

Day 14: UYUNI
Journey deeper into the salt pans to explore their varied geographical features. Along the way, stop at the remote town of Agencha, a small Quechua community sponsored. Here we enjoy a guided walk to learn about quinoa production and the cultural history of the area. Savour lunch prepared with local ingredients before continuing our exploration of the desert and its pans.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Luna Salada Hotel (or similar)

Day 15: UYUNI/LA PAZ
Catch a flight to La Paz and enjoy free time to explore before joining our CEO for an optional farewell dinner. Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: La Casona Hotel Boutique (or similar)

Day 16: LA PAZ
Depart at any time.
Meals Included:Breakfast

Included meals: B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner

What’s included

What's included

Services included in the prices:

Accommodation: Hotels (9 nts), G Lodge Amazon (2 nts), Inca Trail camping or Cusco-stay hotel (3 nts), Hacienda/farm (1 nt).
Meals: 15 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners
Transport: Private van, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking, 4x4 vehicle.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Cusco Planetarium, Cusco
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Traditional Andean Experience, Urubamba
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: La Paz Culinary Experience, La Paz
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Bolivian Hacienda Experience, Potosí
Your G for Good Moment: Parque de la Papa (Potato Park), Urubamba
Your G for Good Moment: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay
Your G for Good Moment: Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products
Your G for Good Moment: Jukil Community Experience & Lunch, Santiago de Agencha
Arrival transfer
Three-day (2 nts) excursion to the exclusive rainforest lodge
Sacred Valley tour
Choice of four-day Inca Trail hike with local guide, cook, and porters or Cusco/Aguas Calientes stay with scenic train
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
La Paz city tour
Sucre orientation walk
Excursions to the Uyuni Salt Flats
Internal flights
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities