18-to-Thirtysomethings: Andean Discovery (Northbound) (JLM)
Countries Visited: Bolivia, Peru
Trip Style: Information Not available
Service Level: Basic
  • Excellent value, amazing prices, quality experiences
  • Simple and clean hotels, guesthouses and hostels chosen for location and character
  • Affordable public and private transport for maximum cultural interaction
  • Plenty of optional activities tailored to your interests and budget
    Physical Demands Rating: 4 - You might encounter a few high-altitude hikes or other more strenuous activities. Pro tip: Put down that pastry, buster.
    Group Size: Max 18, avg 14.
    Meals Included: 16 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
    Accommodations: Simple hotels (14 nts, some multi-share), overnight buses (2 nts), camping (3 nts), homestay (1 nt).

    Highlights
    Settle in with the locals at a homestay on Lake Titicaca, conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, spot condors at the Colca Canyon, sample the seafood in Lima.

    Description
    From the awe-inspiring archeological and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands to the Nazca Lines on Perus enigmatic coast, this epic adventure explores the heart and soul of the Andes. Embrace Inca culture in Cusco, sail Lake Titicaca, and trek the Inca Trail to the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. Interact with locals from the region's communities for an immersive experience that few get to know. With the services of a CEO, your accommodation and transport taken care of, this trip offers great value as it introduces the region's main sights while providing plenty of flexibility.
  • Call (209) 648-9490 for more information or to book today! Mention code 13722869
    Tour OperatorG Adventures
    Duration
    21 Days
    Escorted
    Escorted - Yes
    Itinerary
    DayDestinationDescription
    Day 1La PazDay 1 La Paz
    Today is an arrival day, so no activities are planned. Check into the hotel, relax, enjoy the city, and take some time to adjust to the altitude. Additional Notes: *Please note: hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Latin America (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control. Included Activities: Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
    Day 2PunoDay 2 La Paz/Puno (1B)
    The drive around Lake Titicaca and through the Altiplano from La Paz to Peru is impressive. Included Activities: Border Crossing (Bolivia - Peru) Transport: Local bus (2.50 hour(s)) Local bus (3.50 hour(s))
    Day 3Lago TiticacaDay 3 Puno/Lago Titicaca (1B, 1D)
    In the morning, board a boat on Lake Titicaca. Head to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and the chance for some shopping in the local weaving cooperatives. After, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake (the homestay location can vary based on community availability). This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quecha and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village. Additional Notes: Split into smaller groups for the night and split into family homes to experience their style of living firsthand. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 1 Lake Titicaca Homestay Transport: Boat (3.00 hour(s))
    Day 4PunoDay 4 Lago Titicaca/Puno (1B)
    Leave the homestay families late morning, and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away. Included Activities: Lake Titicaca Guided Boat Tour Day 2
    Day 5CuscoDay 5 Puno/Cusco (1B)
    Travel through the high Altiplano region to Cusco. Transport: Local bus (7.00 hour(s), 389km)
    Day 6CuscoDay 6 Cusco (1B)
    Free time to explore Cusco. Opt for a city tour, or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking.
    Day 7OllantaytamboDay 7 Cusco/Ollantaytambo (1B)
    Ollantaytambo is a major Inca ruin site and your first taste of what lies ahead. For those craving more before they head out on the Trail, opt to take a Sacred Valley tour which includes not only Ollantaytambo and the ruin site of Pisac, but also a visit to a G Adventures-supported womens weaving co-op. Transport: Private Vehicle (2.50 hour(s), 95km)
    Day 8Inca TrailDay 8 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata. Additional Notes: A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you'll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Transport: Private Vehicle (0.75 hour(s))
    Day 9Inca TrailDay 9 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Start early to climb the long steep path to WarmiwaNusca, 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. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 10Inca TrailDay 10 Inca Trail (1B, 1L, 1D)
    Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. 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 cloud forest on the 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 WiNay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft). Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike
    Day 11CuscoDay 11 Machu Picchu/Cusco (1B)
    The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. 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. 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. Included Activities: Inca Trail Hike Machu Picchu Guided Tour Big Night Out Transport: Train (1.50 hour(s), 118km) Private Vehicle (2.00 hour(s))
    Day 12CuscoDay 12 Cusco (1B)
    Free day to explore Cusco or relax after the trek. If you are ready for more adventure, opt to go whitewater rafting, horseback riding or mountain biking.
    Day 13ArequipaDay 13 Cusco/Arequipa (1B)
    Enjoy a final free day in Cusco before an overnight bus to Arequipa. Transport: Overnight bus (10.00 hour(s), 520km)
    Day 14ArequipaDay 14 Arequipa
    Those with an interest in history and architecture may take an optional visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina, offering a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a bygone way of life. Other optional excursions include rafting and mountaineering. For spicy food lovers, checking out one of the "PicanterIas" is a must. Arequipa has a variety of regional food: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.
    Day 15Colca CanyonDay 15 Arequipa/Colca Canyon (1B)
    Enjoy an overnight excursion to the impressive Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world. Stop in fascinating villages and at "miradors" (scenic lookouts), where, with a little luck, spot Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Other unusual animals that may be spotted in the Andean landscape include three different species of camelids: alpaca, llama, and vicuNa. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour Transport: Private Vehicle (4.50-5.00 hours, 165km)
    Day 16ArequipaDay 16 Colca Canyon/Arequipa (1B)
    Get an early start to be on the look out for the condors flying. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to admire these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop by some local villages and viewpoints to see old terraces and sections of Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. Take a lunch break and return to Arequipa in the afternoon. Included Activities: Colca Canyon Guided Tour
    Day 17NazcaDay 17 Chivay/Nazca (1B)
    Drive to Arequipa and enjoy free time in the afternoon. Overnight bus to Nazca. Transport: Private Vehicle (4.50 hour(s)) Overnight bus (9.00 hour(s), 560km)
    Day 18NazcaDay 18 Nazca (1D)
    Travel north to one of the worlds greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines. Very little can be seen from the ground. The best view is from a light aircraft, which can easily be arranged.
    Day 19ParacasDay 19 Nazca/Paracas
    Leave Nazca and stop at the Huacachina Oasis for some optional sandboarding. Continue to visit an artisanal winery to sample some local pisco and wine. Paracas is located one hour further. Included Activities: Huacachina Oasis visit Huacachina Winery Visit Transport: Private Vehicle (3.00 hour(s), 140km) Private Vehicle (1.00 hour(s), 70km)
    Day 20LimaDay 20 Paracas/Lima
    Opt to visit the Ballestas Islands in the morning before travelling to Lima for a final night. Be sure to try some ceviche and a Pisco Sour. Transport: Local bus (4.00 hour(s), 250km) Minibus (0.50 hour(s))
    Day 21LimaDay 21 Lima (1B)
    Depart at any time. Included Activities: Departure Day
    Disclaimer

    Local Flights: N/A

    Dossier Disclaimer:The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

    VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

    Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

    Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.