In this Andean trek, experience some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain scenery along with some of the Inca’s finest archaeological sites as you hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Beginning in Lima, travel south along Peru’s Pacific desert coast to Paracas and then enjoy a scenic boat cruise to the Ballestas Island to see thousands of sea birds circling overhead along with sea lions basking in the sun.

Next, try sand boarding or take a flight over the baffling effigies known as the Nazca Lines and contemplate their arcane meaning as archaeologists have been doing for centuries. Continuing down the increasingly rugged coast, we climb to panoramas over the ocean and arrive to the colonial city of Arequipa.

In Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, choose to visit the Santa Catalina Convent and peruse museums and galleries in this handsome city. Then, a spectacular drive over a 5,000 metre pass and through a vicuña reserve brings us to the Colca Canyon, where we will walk to the rim of the upper canyon watching for condors, before soaking in local thermal springs.

Fully in the Andes now, we make our way to
Puno and Lake Titicaca. Here we navigate the lake via the floating reed-islands of the Uros Indians and stay the night on tranquil Amantani Island in a rustic village home.

Next, we continue the journey to Cusco across the altiplano passing snow-capped peaks with breathtaking vistas. Cusco is alive itself, with a bustling nightlife, thriving indigenous population and aesthetic ruins and architecture, it is easily one of the most memorable and exciting cities in the Andes and the gateway to the Sacred Valley and the Inca Trail.

During our four day Inca Trail trek, we will pass through various micro-climates and experience spectacular sights before coming face-to-face with Machu Picchu. You will have ample time to explore this once-lost city and snap phenomenal photographs.

A dreamy train ride back to Cusco for one more day of cultural exploration is a great way to finish this tremendous Andean experience. After an included walking tour, shop in the eclectic markets and meet people from all over the Andes before flying back to Lima.

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