Peru Unbound

*Please note that the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

Important Trip Details:

MEETING PLACE:  Lima, Peru - Pullman Lima Flores 
ARRIVAL TIME: Any point on day one of your trip itinerary. 
RETURN TIME: Aternoon on the last day of the itinerary
TRIP LENGTH: 9 days
AGE LIMIT: Minimum age is 8 years
NEAREST AIRPORTS: Lima, peru (LIM)

Peru Unbound Itinerary

Note: Itineraries may vary due to weather conditions or other factors. All times mentioned are approximate and subject to change.

Day 1: Arrival in Lima, Peru – Welcome Meeting
Upon arrival in Lima, our team will greet you at the airport and assist with your transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening. After checking in and settling into your room, we will provide a briefing on the journey ahead. You will also receive a travel kit containing essential documents, including your detailed itinerary, transportation tickets, and important hotel information.

Accommodation: Pullman Lima Miraflores (or similar)

Day 2: Lima to Cusco – Pisac, Urubamba, Ollantaytambo
After breakfast, take a 90-minute flight over the Andes to Cusco, located at 11,000 feet. Upon arrival, your driver will transport you to the Sacred Valley at a slightly lower elevation of 9,000 feet for easier acclimatization.

• Visit the archaeological site of Pisac and explore the ancient Inca terraces.
• Walk through the Pisac artisan market, where local vendors offer handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional goods.
• Enjoy lunch at Alqa restaurant, featuring dishes inspired by pre-Hispanic nutrition practices.
• Travel to Ollantaytambo to explore its Inca city layout and learn about the impressive engineering behind its structures.

Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Sacred Valley Biking Adventure
Start the day with breakfast before heading out for a biking adventure in the Sacred Valley. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there is an option to explore the region at leisure.

• Transfer to Cruzpata on the Maras Plateau and begin cycling through the Andean landscape.
• Visit the Inca agricultural terraces of Moray, where the Incas experimented with different crops.
• Stop for a box lunch before continuing to the village of Maras.
• Visit the Inca salt terraces, where traditional salt extraction methods are still used.
• Return to the hotel for dinner and rest.

Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, and Machu Picchu Adventure
Begin an early morning hike through iconic archaeological sites along the Inca Trail.

• Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station and board a train to Kilometer 104, the starting point of the hike.
• Visit the ruins of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, gaining approximately 3,000 feet in elevation over the next eight hours.
• Arrive at Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
• Take a shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay.

Hiking details:

• Chachabamba / KM 104: 7,052 feet
• Wiñay Wayna: 8,692 feet (approximately five miles, four hours, moderately strenuous)
• Inti Punku: 8,923 feet (two additional hours from Wiñay Wayna)

Note: For those who prefer not to hike, there is an option to take the train from KM 104 to Aguas Calientes and a bus to Machu Picchu.

Accommodation: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Boxed Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Start the day with a short shuttle ride up the mountain to explore Machu Picchu.

• Enjoy a guided tour of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, learning about the history and culture of the Inca civilization.
• After the guided portion, take time to explore the site at your own pace.
• Have lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
• Take a bus back to Aguas Calientes, then board the train to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Novotel Cusco (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Cusco to Juliaca to Puno
After breakfast, visit key archaeological sites in Cusco before traveling to Puno.

• Explore Sacsayhuaman, an ancient Inca fortress with massive stone walls.
• Visit Kenko, an archaeological site featuring carved stone passages and stairways.
• Transfer to the airport for a flight to Juliaca with a stop in Lima.
• Upon arrival in Juliaca, transfer to the hotel in Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
• The remainder of the day is free to acclimate to the high altitude.

Accommodation: GHL Lago Titicaca (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Kayaking on Lake Titicaca and Visit to the Uros Islands
Begin the day with a boat ride to the floating islands of Uros, where the indigenous Uros people have built islands from totora reeds.

• Continue by boat to Llachon - Santa Maria to meet the Titicaca Kayak Company guides.
• Receive a safety briefing and kayak across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca.
• Paddle to Amantani Island, where you will stay in a local homestay and enjoy a traditional lunch.
• Take a short hike to ancient temples for a sunset view.
• Join a small evening celebration with your hosts before an overnight stay in the homestay.

Accommodation: Homestay
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Kayaking and Visit to Taquile Island
After a traditional local breakfast, set off on a scenic kayaking journey from Amantani Island to Taquile Island.

• Paddle across the high-altitude waters of Lake Titicaca with stunning views of the snow-capped peaks.
• Explore the village of Taquile and witness a weaving demonstration by local artisans.
• Enjoy a locally prepared lunch before descending a 500-step staircase to the port.
• Board a boat back to Puno, arriving in the late afternoon.
• Free time before dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Accommodation: GHL Lago Titicaca (or similar)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Sillustani Tour and Departure from Puno
Start the day with a scenic tour of the Sillustani Archaeological Complex.

• Visit the pre-Inca burial ground at Sillustani, featuring towering Chullpas tombs used by the Colla people.
• Enjoy the natural landscapes and views of Lake Umayo.
• Transfer to Juliaca Airport for a flight to Lima.
• Upon arrival in Lima, connect to your international flight home.

Meals included: Breakfast

For those looking to extend their adventure, additional travel experiences in Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, or other destinations can be arranged.

 

Peru Travel Arrangements

Getting to Lima, Peru: Book your international flight to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima, Peru. This is the main entry point for travelers arriving from abroad.

Recommended Arrival Timing: We suggest arriving at least one day before the official start of your tour to allow time for any unexpected delays and to rest before your adventure begins.

Flights & Connections: Lima is well-connected to major international hubs. If you have a layover, be sure to check visa or transit requirements for any stopover countries.

Airport Transfer Upon Arrival: Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), you will be met by a representative holding a sign with your name or our company logo. They will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel.

Meeting Location: After clearing customs and collecting your baggage, proceed to the arrivals area, where your driver will be waiting.

Emergency Contact: If you have trouble locating your transfer, please call the emergency contact number provided in your travel documents.

Transfer Time: The drive from the airport to your hotel in Lima typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Peru Weather

Lima has a mild desert climate with little rainfall year-round. The city experiences two main seasons:

• Summer (December to April): Warm and humid with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Days are typically sunny, making this the best time for beach visits and outdoor activities.
• Winter (May to November): Cooler and overcast with temperatures between 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C). Mornings and evenings can feel damp due to the coastal fog known as "La Garúa." Rain is rare, but drizzle is common.

Because of Lima’s coastal location, temperatures remain moderate throughout the year. However, humidity levels can be high, especially in the winter months. Layered clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in changing conditions.

Physical Requirements

This trip involves a variety of physical activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring high-altitude regions. It is important that participants are prepared for moderate to strenuous activity on certain days.

Participants should be able to:

• Walk unassisted on uneven terrain, including cobblestone streets, dirt paths, and archaeological sites.

• Climb stairs, particularly at sites such as Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and Taquile Island.

• Ride a bicycle on maintained dirt roads and rolling terrain in the Sacred Valley (if choosing the biking activity).

• Hike for extended periods, including an 8-hour trek with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet on the Inca Trail (for those selecting this option).

• Paddle a kayak for a moderate distance on Lake Titicaca (alternatives are available for those who prefer not to kayak).

• Handle changing altitudes, with elevations ranging from sea level in Lima to over 12,500 feet at Lake Titicaca.

• Adapt to varying temperatures, from warm and humid conditions in Lima to cooler temperatures in Cusco and Puno.

This trip is suitable for active travelers. If you have any concerns about altitude, endurance, or mobility, we recommend consulting your doctor before travel.

 

Physical Preparedness

Training in advance will enhance your comfort and enjoyment. We recommend:

• Walking or hiking regularly on uneven surfaces before your trip.

• Engaging in cardiovascular activities such as cycling, swimming, or jogging to build endurance.

• Practicing light strength exercises for added stability on hikes and bike rides.

• Staying hydrated and gradually increasing activity at altitude upon arrival in Cusco and Puno.

If you have any medical conditions, physical limitations, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance so we can assist with accommodations where possible.

Peru Packing List

Packing appropriately will ensure you stay comfortable and prepared for the variety of climates and activities you will encounter on your trip. Layers are essential, as temperatures can vary greatly between Lima, the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Lake Titicaca.

Clothing

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts (short and long-sleeved)
• Comfortable hiking pants or leggings
• Warm fleece or down jacket for cooler evenings and higher elevations
• Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
• Casual clothes for evenings and city exploration
• Swimsuit for hotel pools or optional activities
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with good traction
• Sandals or casual shoes for relaxing at the hotel
• Gloves, scarf, and warm hat for colder locations like Lake Titicaca (especially from May to September)

Gear & Essentials

• Small daypack for daily excursions
• Reusable water bottle (filtered or purification options recommended)
• Lightweight travel towel
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Travel umbrella (optional for rainy season)
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing (optional)

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Personal hygiene products and travel-size toiletries
• Lip balm and lotion (the high altitude can be drying)
• Insect repellent (especially for Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca)
• Hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes
• Prescription medications and a small personal first-aid kit

Documents & Money

• Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates)
• Printed copies of flight details, hotel reservations, and emergency contacts
• Small amount of Peruvian soles for incidentals (ATMs are available in major cities)
• Credit/debit cards (notify your bank of international travel)

Electronics

• Camera or smartphone for photos
• Charging cables and portable power bank
• Universal travel adapter (Peru uses 220V outlets with Type A and C plugs)

Adventure Unbound - Recommended Peru Reading List

Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams
A travelogue about the author's journey retracing Hiram Bingham’s 1911 expedition to Machu Picchu, blending history with modern exploration.

The Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie
A history of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, focusing on Francisco Pizarro’s invasion and the resistance led by Manco Inca.

1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles C. Mann
An overview of pre-Columbian civilizations, including Andean societies, challenging common assumptions about the Americas before European contact.

Death in the Andes by Mario Vargas Llosa
A novel set in a remote Andean village, combining political unrest, indigenous culture, and mystery.

Eight Feet in the Andes by Dervla Murphy
A memoir of a mother and her daughter traveling 1,300 miles through the Peruvian Andes with a mule.

The Conquest of the Incas by John Hemming
A historical account of the fall of the Inca Empire, using primary sources and firsthand accounts.

Peru: The Cookbook by Gastón Acurio
A collection of traditional and modern Peruvian recipes from one of the country’s well-known chefs.

Additional Peru Information

Machu Picchu Weather - Real-Time Forecast
Check live weather updates and forecasts for Machu Picchu to help plan for conditions during your visit.

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) - Flight Information and Services
Details on arrivals, departures, and airport services for travelers flying into Lima.

Weather Forecast for Peru (Lima, Cusco, and Puno)
Check the latest weather conditions for key locations on your itinerary.

Currency Exchange Rates - Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Monitor current exchange rates to help plan for expenses in Peru.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Peru Travel Health
Information on vaccinations, health precautions, and altitude sickness prevention.

Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.