Highlights

Cities of Peru , Amazon Lodge - 3 Day, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley - Inca Trail Trek, Colca Canyon & Lake Titicaca,

Physical Rating:

Most Difficult
i

This Trip is Rated: Most Difficult

Our most difficult expeditions are for the adventurer who is in good physical condition. Itineraries may involve multi-day hiking and trekking excursions over steep, rugged terrain and/or where altitude may exceed 14,000 feet. Many trips include camping in remote areas and/or high altitude sites in varying temperature and weather conditions. Trips may also involve many days of demanding Class IV-V rapids, longer sea kayaking trips, horseback riding, and/or mountain bicycling. Training for the physical demands of these tours is highly encouraged. 

How We Rate Our Trips

Easy: Our easy tours generally require fairly little exertion. Each day will involve walking, sightseeing and general travel-related activities such as getting in/out of vans, planes, boats, and zodiacs.

Moderate: Our moderate trips require an average level of fitness. Itineraries may include walks or short hikes of up to two to three hours with little elevation gain, sustained walking at higher altitudes, and/or other similar level physical activities. Many activities are optional.

Difficult: Our difficult trips may involve hiking over uneven terrain, with some hikes including significant elevation gain or loss and at higher elevations (up to 12,000 ft). Itineraries may include three to six hour hikes and other activities such as horseback riding, mountain bicycling, rafting and kayaking, which require no previous experience. On many trips, passengers may elect to skip a day's activity, depending on logistics.

Most Difficult: Our most difficult expeditions are for the adventurer who is in good physical condition. Itineraries may involve multi-day hiking and trekking excursions over steep, rugged terrain and/or where altitude may exceed 14,000 feet. Many trips include camping in remote areas and/or high altitude sites in varying temperature and weather conditions. Trips may also involve many days of demanding Class IV-V rapids, longer sea kayaking trips, horseback riding, and/or mountain bicycling. Training for the physical demands of these tours is highly encouraged. 

Adventure Peru Tour

Enjoy the ultimate Peru adventure trip! This Peru tour is a trekker's dream, encompassing all of the country's top attractions in one trip. Your ecotour will take you on an exploration of the world's largest rainforest, where you will stay the night in a rustic Amazon lodge. You'll visit the beautiful "White City" of Arequipa, famous for its many colonial buildings of ashen volcanic rock on the way to trek in Colca Canyon where the endangered Andean Condor soars overhea... READ MORE >>
Itinerary
Day 1 LIMA
Day 2 LIMA - AREQUIPA
Day 3 AREQUIPA - COLCA CANYON
Day 4 COLCA CANYON - CRUZ DEL CONDOR
Day 5 COLCA - LAKE TITICACA
Day 6 LAKE TITICACA - UROS & TAQUILE ISLANDS
Day 7 LAKE TITICACA - CUSCO
Day 8 CUSCO
Day 9 CUSCO - SACRED VALLEY
Day 10 SACRED VALLEY - HUAYLLABAMBA Camp
Day 11 HUAYLLABAMBA – PACAYMAYO Camp
Day 12 PACAYMAYO – PHUYUPATAMARCA Camp
Day 13 PHUYUPATAMARCA - MACHU PICCHU
Day 14 MACHU PICCHU - CHINCHERO MARKET - CUSCO
Day 15 CUSCO - PTO MALDONADO - AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE
Day 16 AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE
Day 17 AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE - PTO MALDONADO - LIMA - HOME
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Itinerary
Day 1 LIMA

Your Peru tour begins when you arrive in Lima, where you'll be met by a Southern Explorations' representative to take you to your hotel. If you arrive with time to spare, we can arrange optional tours to explore the city, including museum visits and other sites of interest.

Day 2 LIMA - AREQUIPA

In the morning, your Peru travel continues when you return to the airport for a flight to Arequipa, known as the "White City," because of its many colonial buildings built of the area's white volcanic rock. Upon arrival, there will be time to relax or explore a bit on your own before an afternoon city tour, visiting Yanahuara, La Compania and the Convent of Santa Catalina, famous for its labyrinth of secluded rooms. (B)

Day 3 AREQUIPA - COLCA CANYON

Leaving the city behind by private van, your Peru tour ascends to the highland savannah, or puna, for an amazing view of Mt. El Misti and more distant snowcapped volcanoes. On this high-altitude desert, you'll see herds of llamas, alpacas and the endangered vicuña. From this high point you descend into the Colca Valley where you will pass the settlements of Chivay and Coporaque before arriving at the Colca Lodge near Yanque. This afternoon you will have a chance to relax in the thermal bathes at the lodge or walk into the nearby town. Several self-guided hikes are also possible. (B)

Day 4 COLCA CANYON - CRUZ DEL CONDOR

Today dawns with an early departure to Cruz del Condor. You’ll journey to a viewpoint over the canyon to watch condors as they leave their rocky sanctuary on the morning's warm air currents, slowly ascending over the horizon. If you like, enjoy a short hike along the rim of the Colca Canyon, for spectacular views! In the afternoon return to the Colca Lodge and enjoy the natural hot springs set in an impressive setting. (B)

Day 5 COLCA - LAKE TITICACA

In the morning transfer by private van over the Andean plains to the next destination on our Peru tour: Puno, an altiplano town near Lake Titicaca. Stopping on the way to you will visit the mysterious pre-Inca ruins called chullpas (funerary towers), the finest of which sit on a windswept peninsula in Lake Umayo at Sillustani. The Colla people, a warrior tribe that spoke Aymara, buried their elite in these giant cylindrical tombs, some up to 40-ft tall. Many archeologists consider this complex stonemasonry superior to Inca engineering, so this unique sight may well be a highlight of your trip. You’ll spend the night at a hotel in Puno and if time remains, visit the historical Yavari, a historical boat museum. This historic ship was built in England in 1862. Then, the ship was delivered in pieces, by mule, over a period of six years through miles of countryside, to Lake Titicaca, then re-assembled. (B,L)

Day 6 LAKE TITICACA - UROS & TAQUILE ISLANDS

In the morning, take a short drive to the harbor to boat to the next two major sites on our Peru tour. First you'll visit the famous floating Uros Islands where the local population is sustained by reeds that not only serve as the island's land mass but also provide the raw materials for the products they sell. Your travels continue to placid Taquile Island, housing a weaving collective in a Mediterranean-like setting. In the late afternoon, you'll return to Puno, a superb place for purchasing alpaca items and other souvenirs to bring home from your Peru tour. Overnight at your Puno hotel. (B, L)

Day 7 LAKE TITICACA - CUSCO

You'll fly to Cusco in the morning where Southern Explorations' guides pick you up at the airport and take you on the next highlight of your Peru travels, an introductory tour of the beautiful Plaza de Armas. Enjoy the tour, then go on to your hotel where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and adjusting to the 10,856-ft elevation of Cusco. (B)

Day 8 CUSCO

Start this exciting day of our Peru travel with a guided walking tour of Cusco, seeing the city's unique blending of colonial and indigenous cultures. Your stops will include the markets, the cathedral, and the Koricancha, the impressive Temple of the Sun. In the afternoon, you'll tour prominent Inca sites in and around Cusco including temples, the megalithic Sacsayhuaman fortress; the carved stone surfaces and subterranean altars of Kenko; the small Puka Pukara fortress that protected the capital and the Tambo Machay water temple. An evening briefing session will orient you to the upcoming trek of the Sacred Valley, the next leg of our Peru tour. (B)

Day 9 CUSCO - SACRED VALLEY

Today's portion of our Peru ecotour is a guided excursion in the Inca heartland. You'll travel through snowcapped mountains to the legendary Sacred Valley where you'll see Inca terracing on steep valley walls and the spires of ruined Pisac temples. You'll stop in the village of Pisac, where one of the best textile markets in the Andes is found, so pick up some souvenirs of your Peru travels here! After lunch, you'll travel on to Ollantaytambo (9,185 ft), a small traditional town with a well-preserved Inca fortress. Hotel-stay in Ollantaytambo. (B)

Day 10 SACRED VALLEY - HUAYLLABAMBA Camp

You wake up early this morning for the bus ride to (Km 82), where your Inca Trail trek begins. After meeting our porters you cross the Urubamba River by bridge. Continuing along the winding path between the sloping banks of the river, you have a stunning view of the Vilcanota mountain range and Mt. Veronica (18,745 feet). The route travels through the narrow Cusichaca valley, with slopes that show the clear imprint of an ancient culture and its agriculture practices. Later, you’ll arrive at the small indigenous community of Huayllabamba (9,843 ft.), to camp for the night. (B,L,D)
 
Hiking Details: 7.46 miles; approximately 5-6 hours hiking
Altitude min/max: from 8,438 ft. to 9,843 ft. (camping at 9,843 ft.)

Day 11 HUAYLLABAMBA – PACAYMAYO Camp

Along the trail, through the narrow hanging valley, you begin to see a cloud forest where the Quenua tree grows, a rarity of the Andes. From here, your Inca Trail trek ascends steeply to large pampas and continues to Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest pass on the Inca Trail at 13,796 ft. After a short break, you’ll begin the descent to where you will camp overnight at Pacaymayo (11,788 ft.). (B,L,D)
 
Hiking Details: 6.84 miles; approximately 6-7 hours hiking
Altitude min/max: from 9,843 ft. to 13,796 ft. (camping at 11,788 ft.)

Day 12 PACAYMAYO – PHUYUPATAMARCA Camp

Today’s Peru tours take you through most of the archaeological ruins seen along the Inca Trail. The first is Runkuracay. At this small resting place, you’ll visit the ruins before reaching a second pass and then gradually climbing towards the second highest pass on the trek (12,960 ft.). Here you’ll have a spectacular view of the Cordillera of Vilcanota. After a break, you’ll descend towards the Inca village of Sayacmarca (11,850 ft.). Along the way, you observe a marvel of Inca engineering, and then come upon the beautiful ruins of Phuyupatamarca (11,975 ft.) where you’ll camp for the night. (B,L,D)
 
Hiking Details: 6.21 miles; approximately 6 hours hiking
Altitude min/max: from 11,788 ft. to 12,960 ft. (camping at 11,975 ft.)

Day 13 PHUYUPATAMARCA - MACHU PICCHU

Today’s Peru trekking begins by passing the Phuyupatamarca ruins and then follows the flagstone trail that winds sharply down into the cloud forest leading to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna (8,855 feet). Wiñay Wayna is located along the same watercourse as Phuyupatamarca and contains well-restored Inca ruins. After two more hours of trekking the Inca Trail, you pass through a cloud forest and then arrive at your long-awaited destination, Machu Picchu (7,970 feet), entering through Intipunku, the Sun Gate. After a brief tour, you travel to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes (6,690 ft.) to spend the night at a relaxing hotel. (B,L)
 
Hiking Details: 6.20 miles; approximately 6 hours hiking
Altitude max/min: from 11,975 ft. to 7,970 ft. Machu Picchu

Day 14 MACHU PICCHU - CHINCHERO MARKET - CUSCO

This peak day of your Peru travel is spent experiencing extraordinary Machu Picchu where your explorations may take you to the sacred peak of Huayna Picchu or through the lush cloud forest to the Temple of the Moon. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, take the early afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo and travel to the Chinchero Market, home to some of the best quality textiles in Peru. Here the local artisans will explain their ancient craft and methods for shearing, dyeing, spinning, and weaving alpaca wool into impressive works of art. Take advantage of this last minute shopping opportunity before returning to Cusco to your hotel for one last free evening here. (B)

Huayna Picchu
Hiking Details: 1.25 miles; approximately 2-3 hours hiking, the trail is narrow and very steep
Altitude min/max: from 7,970 ft to 8,835 ft.

Day 15 CUSCO - PTO MALDONADO - AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE

Accommodations at Posada Amazonas OR Hacienda Concepcion depending on availability. Our Peru travel continues as we transfer you to the airport for a morning flight to Puerto Maldonado. Today’s tour begins with a one-hour motorized canoe ride up the Tambopata River to the lodge. After taking some time to unwind, you'll receive a short welcome orientation and learn all about the lodge and its Ecotourism Project. The afternoon will be spent in the treetops, climbing the Canopy Tower. The 115-ft scaffolding of the Canopy Tower offers spectacular views of the river and the surrounding forest. (B,L,D)

Day 16 AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE

Accommodations at Posada Amazonas OR Hacienda Concepcion depending on availability. Rise at dawn for the next natural wonder on your Peru tour: a visit to the Tres Chimbadas oxbow lake. After an early breakfast, you'll go from Posada Amazonas part way by boat and part way on foot to reach the lake shore. From here, our travel continues with a long, easy canoe ride, exploring the lake and looking for giant river otters, turtles, hoatzin and wading birds. Later in the day, you'll return to the lodge's trails for a colorful photo opportunity, a visit to a small parakeet clay lick where you're likely to see dozens, and perhaps hundreds, of parakeets that come here on clear days to ingest clay. Next, your Peru tour continues with a visit to the community's ethno-botanical center, where you'll have the opportunity to hike with a resident who will explain the everyday uses of the area's forest resources, then return to the lodge for the evening. (B,L,D)

Day 17 AMAZON JUNGLE LODGE - PTO MALDONADO - LIMA - HOME

Early in the morning, head back by boat to Pto. Maldonado where you'll be transferred to the airport for a quick return flight to Lima. Spend the afternoon exploring the capital on your own, before your return flight home or if you wish, we can arrange tours of Lima and vicinity. (B)

Weather

When to Visit
  • jan
  • feb
  • mar
  • apr
  • may
  • jun
  • jul
  • aug
  • sep
  • oct
  • nov
  • dec

Peru is a diverse country. With beaches, mountains, rainforest and desert, there is no off-season. But it does pay to know a bit about where you're going, and what you'll need on your Peru tour:

The Andes - Though officially part of the dry season, April and May are considered the Andean spring, while June through October marks the Andean summer. Mid-day temperatures range from 70 to 80 F in the sun. Nighttime temperatures in Cusco range in the 40s F and can dip into the 30s F. Weather is usually clear in the morning with clouds accumulating in the afternoon. Rain can happen in any season, so quality rain gear is essential.

The Amazon - A rainforest environment, the Peruvian Amazon has varied weather conditions and frequent unpredictable rain showers. It is generally hot and humid during the day with more comfortable temperatures through the night. Daytime high temperatures average between 82° and 93° F, and the average nighttime low is between 62° and 73°. Nevertheless, in some areas cold fronts can sweep into the Amazon and push daytime high temperatures down to 50° F and nighttime lows to 43° F. Any time of year, one should always be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain showers. Around 80% of the annual average 79 inches of rainfall occurs during the rainy season (December through March) when heavy rain may continue for hours or days.

Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
 

LIMA

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN68-790.0
FEB69-800.0
MAR69-800.0
APR67-760.0
MAY63-720.0
JUN61-690.1
JUL60-670.2
AUG60-660.1
SEP60-670.1
OCT60-690.1
NOV62-720.0
DEC64-760.0

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
 

CUSCO

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN44-656.3
FEB44-655.2
MAR43-664.3
APR41-671.8
MAY39-670.3
JUN33-660.1
JUL32-660.2
AUG35-670.3
SEP39-680.9
OCT42-691.9
NOV43-693.1
DEC44-694.7

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

PUNO

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN38-625.2
FEB38-624.3
MAR38-623.8
APR33-621.5
MAY25-620.4
JUN19-610.1
JUL18-610.1
AUG22-630.2
SEP29-640.8
OCT33-651.5
NOV35-662.0
DEC37-643.6

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches
 

PUERTO MALDONADO

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN71-8813.6
FEB70-8712.8
MAR70-8811.9
APR69-876.1
MAY66-864.2
JUN63-842.3
JUL62-852.2
AUG64-882.5
SEP66-903.9
OCT69-906.5
NOV70-899.3
DEC70-8812.1

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

Maps

Adventure Peru Tour

Pricing
2-3 Travelers
$5,595
4 or more
$4,795


Domestic Airfare:
$750 (Lima/Arequipa/Juliaca/Cusco/Pto. Maldonado/Lima) – Subject to change

Single Supplement: $1,255
A single supplement is the additional cost of a single traveler not sharing a room in double occupancy.
 

Included in tour cost
  • Air mattresses
  • Camping accommodations
  • First aid and oxygen bottle
  • Kitchen and dining tent
  • Porters
  • Private transportation
  • Satellite phone communication
  • All airport/hotel transfers
  • All hotel accommodations
  • All listed activities
  • English-speaking certified guides
  • Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
  • Meals as indicated
  • Southern Explorations pre-departure services
Excluded from tour cost
  • Domestic airfare within South America
  • International airfare to and from Central & South America
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Medical & travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Hiking boots and other necessary sports gear
  • Sleeping bags

Adventure Peru Tour

Trip Dates
Can’t find a date that works for you in the list below? Southern Explorations can arrange a private departure on any date that works with your schedule. Custom tours are also available. Contact us for details.
Tuesday, December 3, 2019 to Thursday, December 19, 2019
Available
Tuesday, January 14, 2020 to Thursday, January 30, 2020
Available
Tuesday, February 11, 2020 to Thursday, February 27, 2020
Available
Tuesday, March 10, 2020 to Thursday, March 26, 2020
Available
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 to Thursday, April 23, 2020
Available
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 to Thursday, May 28, 2020
Available
Tuesday, June 9, 2020 to Thursday, June 25, 2020
Available
Tuesday, June 30, 2020 to Thursday, July 16, 2020
Available
Tuesday, July 28, 2020 to Thursday, August 13, 2020
Available
Tuesday, September 1, 2020 to Thursday, September 17, 2020
Available
Tuesday, October 6, 2020 to Thursday, October 22, 2020
Available
Tuesday, November 3, 2020 to Thursday, November 19, 2020
Available
Tuesday, December 15, 2020 to Thursday, December 31, 2020
Available
Aguas Calientes
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Lake Titicaca
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Amazon
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Arequipa
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Colca Canyon
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
  • Colca Lodge
    4 Star
     Included Hotel (subject to availability) 
Cusco
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Lima
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Sacred Valley
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.

One Day

peru biking

Our trip was amazing! All of our guides were friendly and professional. Our guide’s knowledge and communication skills were exceptional! He was a fabulous tour guide and we really enjoyed hiking the Inca Trail with him. We always had the best campsites – other hikers were often jealous of where our camp was set up and would ask which company was handling our trip.   Our guides were excellent on the rafting trip. We had never been through class V rapids before so I was a little hesitant at first; but, our guides were so skilled, we always felt completely safe. Chef’s cooking was fantastic! I’m not sure what I expected but I did not expect three course meals every night while camping. On the rafting trip, they noticed I don’t eat many grains and mostly eat meat and dairy foods so the chef brought more meat along on the Inca Trail than usual to make sure I was ok. I never mention it in the special requests because I don’t expect it to be accommodated, and I always carry lots of protein bars with me so it’s not an issue – I do appreciate the extra effort they made and the food was excellent!   -Jerri Lipple, Texas (Peru & Amazon)

machu picchu tours

Overall a great experience! Have already started to think about Patagonia!!!!   - Barry Tereshkow, California (Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca)

peru tour

We would highly recommend Southern Explorations for their professional and thorough operation. Our trip was "smooth", well-paced and incredible! Our guides spoke outstanding English, and were informative and friendly - we thoroughly enjoyed each of them as individuals. Drivers were prompt and skilled. The itinerary was packed literally with "the best of Peru", providing enough time to see everything with no wasted time. Thanks it was a great experience. - Alan and Lindy Jones, Canada (Peru)

 

machu picchu travelWe had a wonderful trip, such a journey to Machu Picchu and we enjoyed every single minute of it. Our guide from Cusco onward, Juan, was very informative and interesting and really made the entire trip very exciting. We enjoyed our time alone in each city and then also our excursions during the day with Juan. There was so much to see. Thanks so much for arranging our trip and getting us the best possible of everything. I was happy we did a private tour. I will continue recommending your company to people. - Leslie Williams, California (Machu Picchu)

machu picchu toursI thoroughly enjoyed my travel experience with Southern Explorations! I would recommend you and travel with your tour group again. - Nancy Sing-Bock, New York (Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca)

machu picchu tourOur Luxury Peru trip was wonderful. We had a wonderful guide, Juan who relayed the history and culture to us, was energetic and really made the trip go smoothly. Peru is a fabulous country – we loved our lodging, the food, the sights, everything. This was a trip for my mom who is 83 and always wanted to see Machu Picchu. The guides were so attentive to her and assisted her in seeing every sight we visited. She says it was the best trip of her life. I can’t wait to go back to Peru. - Sue Strater, Oregon (Peru)


peru tourThank you for your services in organizing our trip to Peru/Machu Picchu. The trip went smoothly and we are very satisfied with all aspects of the trip. I appreciate the professional staff we worked with in Peru to ensure our good health and safety. In Lima, Giovanna was a wonderful guide and accommodated our special requests without question. We sincerely thank her for giving us a look at local Peruvian life, not just the tourist view. She is a great asset to your organization. In Cusco, Augusto our guide and Claudio our driver were very professional and I am most appreciative of their concern for our good health and safety. Augusto is very knowledgeable, and we gained a great deal of history and information from him. Claudio was kind enough to allow us our special requests. - Nicole Peterson, California (Peru & Machu Picchu)

machu picchu toursThank you, Southern Explorations, for a wonderful trip. We'd been looking forward to seeing Machu Picchu for years, yet despite all of that anticipation what you delivered somehow still exceeded our expectations. Thank you not only to Chenna – the best guide on the planet – but also to all the people who worked quietly in the background to make this such a memorable trip for us.   - Gordon McConnell (Peru)

peru toursWe travel a great deal. We believe that Southern Explorations stands at the top of our experience in its focus on the customer. In addition to a superb job of organizing a trip and attention to details, were most impressed with the way that the US and Peru-based staffs made extraordinary efforts to work with our family. This included making sure our son was safe to eat the foods (due to his food allergies), to adding on specific excursions to a small village of weavers and arranging a bike tour, to the ability of the local guides to get to know us as people, not just to conduct the guided tour. This made for a rich and worthwhile experience. Keep it up! The ultimate compliment in this world is whether we would call again to arrange a trip to another country. The answer is a definite Yes. - The Gilman Family (Peru)


peru travelSouthern Explorations provides perfectly organized excursions featuring a well-balanced mixture of learning and hiking in very small groups. I enjoyed every moment of my Peru trip; I am fascinated by the Inca Empire and the mind-blowing landscape. I highly recommend Southern Explorations. - Sven Zuehlsdorf (Peru)

peruvian local artisanThe whole trip was perfect. After all of the wedding planning and the wedding itself, it was awesome to have this trip where we did so much but never had to really think or stress about planning, travel, communicating with locals, etc. It was exactly the honeymoon we wanted. Thanks so much to everyone at SE who helped to make it happen!   -John Gaetzi, Colorado (Peru)

machu picchu toursThis was our second trip with Southern Explorations. Again, every element was perfect. Our guides were knowledgeable and attentive. The accomadations were superb. The itinerary was varied and fascinating. You think of every detail. We loved learning about the culture and history of different parts of Peru. We also had a chance to challenge ourselves by hiking to the top of Huayna Picchu and slogging through the mud in the Amazon. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to visit the village of Huilloc and see their beautiful textiles. We were thrilled to give them the books that we had collected for their school. Again, thank you for another amazing trip. - Chris Howard (Peru & Amazon)

peru toursOur guides were all organized, professional, extremely informative and passionate. Most highly recommended. Organization was flawless. Guides exceptionally helpful and informative. - Ronald Shapiro (Best of Peru)

We have never traveled using a travel company before but felt it would be a good idea going to Peru. So glad we did! This was the best trip of our lives! Southern Explorations uses very knowledgeable, friendly, and patient guides. We had to change our itinerary while on the trip and the company handled everything perfectly. I highly recommend them to anyone traveling out of the country. - Laurie Key, Utah (Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca)

Even more impressed with our second SE trip than our first. A minor injury (twisted ankle) precluded the planned arduous hike for the day - instead of just telling us to hang out at the hotel (what we expected), the guide on her own called her boss asking for clearance to change the itinerary to a visit to an equally interesting site which consisted of a drive and just minimal walking. This change represented greater cost for SE but saved the day for us. A wonderful, thoughtful way of proving the goal is to create a memorable trip. - Andre Lucio Denis (Peru Day Hiker)

 

We had a wonderful time!  Absolutely a life memory and highlight! Thank you for ALL your help – of course, we gave Southern Explorations five stars in all categories! Your last minute tips on traveling were especially helpful. Thank you again. Meg and Bruce Cummings (Luxury Peru & Amazon)
 
Our guide was absolutely fantastic. She made this a memorable experience. Billy Chiquito, a National Park guide, was more than we could have imagined for a guide. All accommodations were first class. - Howard Flicker (Private Experience Machu Picchu and Legend)
Southern Explorations did a phenomenal job with our vacation in Peru. The travel arrangements were great, the guides very well informed and an extremely well organized trip overall. They even went above and beyond to help us locate and get our lost baggage from Lima to Arequipa. We sure look forward to another trip with them. - Prashant Bhandare, USA (Amazon, Machu Picchu & Arequipa)
Great trip. Extremely well done. Very interesting, good value, very efficient. All guides were great. Hotels were good and the guides worked with us. I didn’t like some of the steep drop offs on the ledges at the sites and Jose stayed between me and the edge so I could get down. Everyone was great. - Donna Lee, USA (Machu Picchu)
Extremely well organized and informative adventure. Guides and local representatives made us feel very comfortable in a strange land. Would highly recommend this trip and Southern Explorations. - Steve Greenwood, USA (Peru)
Just returned from a 12 day trip to Peru and have to say this was the best vacation ever. I have never arranged travel through a company before so I was a little leery about what to expect. Needless to say I was quite impressed by how comprehensive and well planned every detail of the trip was put together. Southern Explorations did an amazing job especially considering I only booked the trip one month in advance. Our guide in Lima, Natalia was excellent and very knowledgeable. Our guide in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, Washington Gibaja Tapia was incredible. He shared a part of his culture and community with us on a deep spiritual level so we were able to leave Peru feeling like we understood the significance and true beauty of the place and people we visited. Thank you Southern Explorations for a trip of a lifetime. - Michelle Barker (Inti Raymi Festival & Machu Picchu & Amazon)

The trip was an amazing once in a life time experience. Juan took us through the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu. He was an excellent and very knowledgable guide. The trip was well organized and the Hotel accommodations exceeded my expectations.  - Paul Demarco, USA (Inca Trail, Machu Picchu & Wayna Picchu)

This is our second trip arranged by Southern Explorations. Our first was to the Galapagos, which was exceptional as well.  We’ve pretty much run out of superlatives to describe our adventures!   We have found Southern Exploration – your Seattle staff, the guides you use, the drivers, the tours, the arrangements, etc, all to be wonderful!  Thank you! - Joseph Wright, USA (Short Inca Trail)

All the guides were great. Hotels were all very nice. Great experience all round. We will be back for another tour with your company. - Lisa Gumpel (Peru Highlights)
The guides were wonderful. All guides spent a lot of time explaining the culture and history of this fascinating country. This was the trip of a lifetime. We enjoyed every minute. - Leslie Klaff (Best of Peru)
Trip of a life time; good outfitter and good friends. - Carol Croom (Classic Inca Trail)
Our guide was exceptional!!! She was so knowledgeable and accommodating to our needs. I've traveled around the world, and I don't think I've had a better guide. - Christina Trunz (Experience Machu Picchu)
 
 

Inca Trail - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose an itinerary?
A: Peru offers several beautiful regions in addition to the Inca Trail. If you have time to explore areas like the Amazon or Lake Titicaca before or after your trek, contact your Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss which areas best meet your interests. 
Q: Can I make changes or additions to these tours?
A: Yes! We are happy to modify any tour to meet your needs and also add pre and post-excursion extensions. If you sign up for a group departure we cannot change the group portion but we can add extensions before and after. 
Q: When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?
A: Many travelers like to hike the Inca Trail between the months of April and October, when the chances of rain are much lower. The trail is closed each year for the month of February to prevent erosion during high rains and also perform maintenance. Avoid the height of summer (June through August) and the Christmas holiday season for smaller crowds and the best selection of accommodations. 
Q: What is the weather like on the Inca Trail?
A: You can expect variable mountain weather on the Inca Trail during the dry season (April-October) with daytime temperatures in the 60s and nighttime lows in the 30s and possibly below freezing. The wet season (November – March) is slightly warmer and you can expect some rain most days. 
Q: What is a typical day like on the Inca Trail?
A: Each morning begins with hot tea and warm water to freshen up before breakfast. We hit the trail early so we can take in the scenic vistas and explore the numerous Incan ruins along the way. We will enjoy a picnic lunch on the trail and at the end of the day we arrive at camp, which will already be set-up for us by the porters. We can kick our feet up and relax before a delicious camp meal.
Q: Will I need to carry my own camping gear on the Inca Trail?
A: You will only need to carry a small day pack for extra clothing layers, water, a snack, a camera, and any personal items you need on the trail. Everything else will be stored in dry bags provided to you and carried to the next camp location by your porters. 
Q: How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy a trip on the Inca Trail?
A: We rate the Inca Trail as most difficult due to the long hiking days, high elevation and travel over steep, rocky terrain. Experience with backcountry travel is not necessary, but a moderate level of fitness is expected to complete the trek.
Q: How much time do I need to visit the Inca Trail?
A: The Inca Trail takes four-days to complete, but the whole trip, beginning with arrival in Lima, is a 10-day adventure. We budget several days in Cusco to properly acclimatize to the altitude before hiking, and also to explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. For those with limited time, we can offer an Inca Trail trip in just eight-days.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: The Inca Trail is heavily regulated by Peru’s Ministry of Culture and only 500 people are allowed to begin the trail each day, including the guides, porters and support staff. This means that Inca Trail permits sell out very quickly each year and you should plan on booking an Inca Trail trip at least six months before your expected travel dates, although nine months is better. 
Q: What are your booking and cancellation policies?
A: Click here to see our booking and cancellation policies.
Q: Do you use certified guides?
A: Our guides have been carefully selected for their knowledge, professionalism, experience and ability to effectively manage groups with finesse. We hire only guides who are native to the destination and are licensed and/or certified in accordance with the government regulations of their country. All are fluent in Spanish and English, and some also speak indigenous languages. Most have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, native culture or other related field. All guides are experienced in the outdoors and trained in basic first aid.
Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect?
A: In the cities and towns we work with three and four-star hotels that have been personally vetted by Southern Explorations’ staff. All of our hotels are clean, comfortable, well-located, offer en suite bathrooms. We also offer several five-star hotel upgrades. On the trail, you’ll have three-person North Face tents for two travelers, along with air mattresses and a separate dining tent. We have sleeping bags available to rent if you choose not to bring your own.
Q: Do tours include airfare?
A: We will confirm all airfare within South America and this price will be listed separately from our base tour costs. You are responsible for booking international flights to/from Peru. 
Q: How many people are on your tours?
A: We operate our scheduled group Inca Trail trips with a minimum of two and a maximum of 12 guests. This policy minimizes our environmental impact, allows us to travel to areas less visited and makes the sightseeing experience more personal. It allows our guides sufficient time to attend to the individual needs of each visitor. Traveling in small groups also increases the likelihood of encountering wildlife.
Q: Will I get more information on packing, vaccines, currency, electricity, etc.?
A: After booking you will receive a link to our online trip portal which includes all of the need-to-know information that is specific to your itinerary. This includes packing lists, restaurant recommendations, tipping guides, FAQs, vaccine recommendations and currency information. Your Adventure Travel Coordinator will also be a great resource for any other information you may need.