Highlights

Cusco, Ancient Inca Trail , Machu Picchu, Local Perspective , Off the beaten Trek,

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. 

Alternative Inca Trail

If taking the least populated path to Peru's most popular sight sounds appealing, our Alternative Inca Trail Peru tour is the right Machu Picchu tour for you. This less traveled route to one of civilization's most stunning achievements, the hidden city of Machu Picchu, is filled with Inca ruins. Our Peru tour takes us on a journey through the Incas' cultural traditions and engineering feats through the Sacred Valley where these ancient peoples worked and worshipped. Our Alternative I... READ MORE >>
Itinerary
Day 1 LIMA
Day 2 LIMA - CUSCO
Day 3 CUSCO - OLLANTAYTAMBO
Day 4 SACRED VALLEY – RAYAN
Day 5 RAYAN - CANCHACANCHAYOK
Day 6 CANCHACANCHAYOK - QHESQA
Day 7 QHESQA – QUENTE – OLLANTAYTAMBO
Day 8 OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU
Day 9 MACHU PICCHU – CHINCHEROS ARTISAN MARKET - CUSCO
Day 10 CUSCO - LIMA - HOME
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Most Popular Peru Trips & Tours

Trip Price Days Highlights
Alternative Inca Trail $3,995 10 Days Cusco, Ancient Inca Trail , Machu Picchu, Local Perspective , Off the beaten Trek
Amazon & Machu Picchu $3,295 9 Days Amazon Rainforest & Jungle, Amazon Wildlife, Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu
Classic Inca Trail $3,995 10 Days Lima, Cusco , Inca Trail Trek, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley
Experience Machu Picchu $2,995 7 days Lima, Sacred Valley, Cusco, Machu Picchu
Itinerary
Day 1 LIMA

Arrival and met by our representative to transfer you to your hotel. If you arrive early, city tours, museum visits or sightseeing excursions tailored to your interests may be arranged. Overnight in Lima.
 
Costa Del Sol Wyndham Hotel Upgrade - $55 Per Person. Most international flights arrive into Lima in the late evening and most of our tours include a flight out of Lima the following morning. We therefore highly recommend upgrading to the Costa Del Sol Wyndham which is a comfortable four-star hotel located right in the airport. This eliminates the one hour transfer each way into the city center. If you plan to stay two nights in Lima, we recommend staying in the city center to fully enjoy Lima. 
 

Day 2 LIMA - CUSCO

In the morning you will be taken from your hotel to the airport for a morning flight to Cusco (10,856 ft.), center of the Inca Empire. After checking in at your hotel, today’s Peru travel begins with a guided walking tour through the colorful markets of Cusco, making stops at the colonial cathedral and the impressive Incan Temple of the Sun (Koricancha) followed by a lunch of regional cuisine. You will spend the afternoon in the Inca heartland in the vicinity of Cusco. Among the important sites you’ll visit are Cusco's temples; Sacsayhuaman, a fortress with megalithic stone terraces; the stone Kenko containing subterranean altars; Puka Pukara, a small fortress that once protected the royal capitol; and the royal baths of Tambo Machay. You'll be returned to your hotel for the first of three free evenings in colonial Cusco. (B)

 

Day 3 CUSCO - OLLANTAYTAMBO

Our day-long excursion through snowcapped mountains begins our exploration of the Incas' legendary Sacred Valley, as majestic today as it was during their reign. Along the way, Inca agricultural terracing on the steep valley walls and the ruined temples of Pisac set off panoramic views of the jagged granite mountains. Pisac is home to one of the most important textile markets in the Andes where you'll be able to test your bargaining skills and enjoy the local culture. After lunch, we head to Ollantaytambo (9,185 feet), a small town with an impressive Inca fortress. Overnight at a charming hotel in Ollantaytambo. (B)

 

Day 4 SACRED VALLEY – RAYAN

From Ollantaytambo, today's travels begin with a thirty-minute drive in a private van to the village of Socma.  Before starting the day’s trek, stop to visit a small school, meet the children and donate school supplies.  The trek begins with a gradual climb offering fantastic views of the valley below.  After two hours of hiking, you arrive at the spectacular Piruchayoc waterfalls (10,745 feet) where you stop to gaze at the view.  Thirty minutes further along the trail are the Raccaypata ruins.  Here you have lunch in scenic splendor and explore the ruins before hiking a final two miles to today’s campsite, Rayan (11,795 feet).  You’ll arrive in time to relax and enjoy the sun setting behind the Andes before dinner (B,L,D)
Hiking Details: 5.6 miles. Approx. 6 Hours; Camp elevation: 11,794 feet
 

Day 5 RAYAN - CANCHACANCHAYOK

After a hearty breakfast, you hike a winding ascending trail to reach 13,910 feet. Charcahuylla pass, surrounded by the Vilanota mountain range with Mt. Veronica rising above the peaks.  The hike to the pass is a step back in time where you can see Peruvians working in fields of potatoes and other local crops.  After about an hour, you come to a small straw house where you stop for lunch.  Continuing the descent, you pass through a tiny village before dropping into a beautiful valley to reach the mountain town of Canchacanchayok and camp nearby. (B,L,D) 
Hiking Details: 6.8 miles. Approx. 6 Hours; Camp elevation 12,785 feet
 

Day 6 CANCHACANCHAYOK - QHESQA

Today's trek will connect you with an ancient Inca road that gains altitude and eventually affords views of the stunning Anccascocha alpine lake.  Here you stop for a quick energy-boosting snack before continuing the ascent to the second and final high alpine pass, Huayanay, which sits at 14,875 feet with views of the mountains and lake.  From here you hike into a valley with views of the famous Mt. Salkantay, stopping to camp near a small village. (B,L,D)
 Hiking Details: 9.3 miles. Approx. 7 Hours; Camp elevation 12,395 feet
 

Day 7 QHESQA – QUENTE – OLLANTAYTAMBO

Today, you continue along the Old Inca Trail, stopping to visit with students of the small school of Qhesqa (where gifts for the children are appreciated) before reaching your lunch destination, the Inca ruins of Paucarcancha.  The next stop is the town of Huayllabamba where you join the throngs of visitors on Peru’s most popular path, the classic Inca Trail.  Hike alongside the beautiful Urubamba River, stopping at the Inca ceremonial and work site, Llactapacta, with great views of elaborate Incan aqueducts.  From there you walk to visit nearby villagers and enjoy a traditional Peruvian lamb barbecue prepared especially for you in the ancient method called Pachamanca. Vegetarian options are available. Return to the town of Ollantaytambo for a restful night’s sleep in your hotel. (B,L)
 

Day 8 OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU

After breakfast walk to the train station to connect with the Vista Dome train for our picturesque ride beside the Urubamba River and through a magnificent cloud forest to Aguas Calientes where a bus deposits us at our ultimate destination, the sacred city of Machu Picchu (7,875 feet). Take the afternoon to explore the famous ruins before returning to nearby Aguas Calientes for a delicious dinner of Peruvian cuisine. Overnight at a charming hotel. (B,D)
 
*Machu Picchu entrance afternoon shift
 

Day 9 MACHU PICCHU – CHINCHEROS ARTISAN MARKET - CUSCO

Enjoy a second awe-inspiring day at Machu Picchu with opportunities to climb to the sacred peak of Huayna Picchu for a perfect view of the entire complex spread out below like a map. Enjoy lunch back in Aguas Calientes before the early afternoon train takes you back to Ollantaytambo. Travel through the Sacred Valley to the Chincheros Market, a cooperative weavers’ community featuring some of the best quality textiles in Peru. Here the local weavers will introduce you to their craft and its rich history. Take time for some last-minute shopping before returning to Cusco for the evening. (B)
 
Huayna Picchu – 7AM Shift
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.
 
*Machu Picchu entrance morning shift
 

 

Day 10 CUSCO - LIMA - HOME

Morning transfer to the airport for the return flight to Lima and your connecting international flight. This marks the end of your Southern Exploration services. Trip extensions to other regions or extra days in Lima or Cusco may be arranged. (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

Alternative Inca Trail

Pricing
2-3 Travelers
$3,995
4 or more
$3,525


Domestic Airfare:
$375 (Lima/Cusco/Lima) – Subject to change

Single Supplement: $675
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
  • Three-man tents
  • 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
  • Airport taxes, international and local
  • 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

Alternative Inca Trail

Trip Dates
Southern Explorations can arrange a private departure on any date that works with your schedule. Custom tours are also available. Contact us for details.
Available
Aguas Calientes
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
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

Multi-Day

  • Aqua Nera
    4, 5, and 8 days $4,230
    Amazon Jungle
    Luxury small-ship cruising
    Wildlife
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Arequipa & Colca Canyon
    4 Days $1395
    Highlights of Arequipa City
    Colca Canyon
    Condors
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Aria Amazon
    4, 5 & 8 Days $3,615
    Amazon River and Rainforest
    Pacaya Samiria Reserve
    Exotic Amazon Jungle Wildlife and Fauna
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Delfin I
    4 & 5 Days $4,450
    Amazon River and Rainforest
    Luxury Accommodations
    Indigenous Flora, Fauna and Wildlife
    Jungle Canopy Tower & Walkway
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Delfin II
    4 & 5 Days $3,450
    Amazon River Luxury Cruising
    Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
    Jungle Wildlife
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Delfin III
    4 & 5 Days $3,000
    Amazon River Headwaters
    Wildlife Spotting
    Local Communities
    Jungle Hiking and Canoeing
    Fishing for Piranha
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Hacienda Concepcion Amazon Ecolodge
    3 Days $420
    Hike through Tambopata National Reserve
    Inkaterra Canopy Walkway Interpretation Center
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Ica & Nazca 2 Day Tour Extension
    2 Days $795
    Ica
    Flight over Nazca Lines
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Ica / Nazca & Ballestas Islands
    3 Days $1,245
    Flight over Nazca Lines
    Marine wildlife
    Ica
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Lake Titicaca
    3 Days $655
    Lake Titicaca
    Urus Islands
    Visit with locals
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Peru North
    4 Days $1,250
    Highlights of the North
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Rafting the Apurimac River
    3 Days $1110
    Apurimac River
    Top of the line equipment
    Experienced guides
    Safety kayaker & raft
    Pristine beaches for camping
    more
    Multi-Day
  • Reserva Amazonica Ecolodge
    3 Days $540
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Select from a wide array of activities
    more
    Multi-Day

machu picchu toursI can't recommend Southern Explorations highly enough, from the great hotels to a totally awesome guide, Jose, who took care of us from the minute we stepped off the plane in Cusco to the time we flew back to Lima. Jose's knowledge of Cusco, the Incas, the sites we visited, history, plants and wildlife was boundless. Also, if you prefer to get off the beaten path and don't like big groups, Southern Explorations is without any shadow of a doubt the way to go ... we were easily the smallest group on the Inca Trail and thankful for it! The timing on the trail was also excellent, we avoided other groups to such an extent that we felt like we had the trail to ourselves 90% of the time. We were taken care of from start to finish and I'd certainly recommend and use Southern Explorations again for future adventures of this kind.   -Julia Relf, California (Inca Trail)

machu picchu tourTHANK YOU for a phenomenal trip! Krissy and I had an amazing time, both in the Amazon, as well as Cusco, Inca Trail. We could not have asked for a better experience. Everything went smoothly, and was extremely organized. We had a fantastic guide for Cusco and Inca Trail - Fernando Silva. THE BEST. We'd recommend you use him as much as you can! So THANK YOU, THANK YOU for making it all happen for us! We will definitely recommend you guys to our friends/family and anyone who asks. We're now thinking about Ecuador and Galapagos possibly for next year! Cannot wait. Cheers! - Nicole Cassani, California (Inca Trail & Amazon)

machu picchu toursThis was an amazing experience and our guide, Jose, made a significant impact on the quality of our trip. Jose was an exceptional guide who was attentive to all people in the group. He was extremely detail-oriented, knowledgeable, caring, thoughtful and went out of his way to ensure all needs were met. Jose went beyond what we expected. - Shelly Zavala, California (Inca Trail)

hiking inca trailI wanted to let you know how much Joe and I enjoyed our Machu Picchu adventure. From the minute we arrived in Lima to the minute we left, the capable crew at Southern Explorations took great care of us. In particular, our guide, Washington, was truly amazing. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and just plain fun to spend time with. But more than that, Washington seemed to generally care about the porters and people we came across on the trail. He was just wonderful! And another person in need of some kudos was our cook, Walter. Each meal was worthy of a nice restaurant--and this while camping in the middle of the Andes. Every meal was a delight. All in all, the trip was really fantastic. Thank you for providing us with a trip that we will always treasure! - Joe and Katherine Houlehan, Kansas (Inca Trail)

machu picchu hikingWe LOVED this trip. We went to Panama last year and SE exceeded all of our expectations. You did it again this year with our trip to Peru. We loved every minute of it. Every single detail was thought out and executed in a professional manner. We would plan another trip with SE in a second. Thank you for all your hard work. We feel grateful to have found such a wonderful and reliable travel company! - Elissa Bowes, New Jersey (Inca Trail & Amazon)

 

machu picchu hiking tourWe can't say enough wonderful things about our guide. He is absolutely amazing and so incredibly knowledgeable. We truly appreciated his ability to explain cultural and historic facts and the pride he has in being Peruvian. I would highly recommend him to my friends. Hacienda Concepcion and Casa Andina (the private collection) far exceeded our expectations. They were lovely! Every meal, whether it be in the jungle or on the trail or in Cusco was OUTSTANDING!!! The jungle excursions were okay, we were hoping to have a bit more exploration activities but the canopy tour was awesome! The trek and the festival were great!!! This was the trip of a lifetime! Both my husband and I were blown away with your organization and quality of everything. Jonathan Borgida put together an outstanding itinerary for us. We are so grateful! - Anne Darga (Inca Trail & Amazon)

I thought this was a great trip! It exceeded my expectations. Machu Picchu was just as amazing in person as I thought it would be. I am so happy we decided to hike the short Inca trail. Although it was a difficult and tiring hike at times it was an amazing experience. The whole trip went very smoothly from the time of booking to the time we got on the plane home. It was nice not having to worry about anything and letting Southern Explorations and their guides handle everything and take care of us. I am definitely planning on looking into taking another trip with Southern Explorations in the future. - Kara Trias, New York (Inca Trail)

Our guide was excellent - his knowledge and sharing of ancient traditions was wonderful. Excellent company- very good value for money- highly recommended. - Philip Jensen (Custom Short Inca Trail)
 
I would like to tell you that we had absolutely a wonderful and flawless trip in Peru from the beginning to the very end. Our guide, in particular, did a superb job in guiding us. He has a professional pride as a guide and his enthusiasm in informing us of the Incan culture came through very strongly. He was very pleasant. - Kazumi Hatasa, Japan (Inca Trail)
The best part of traveling with Southern Explorations was that I always had confidence that if something went wrong, we would be taken care of, and that was an enormous weight off my shoulders. Excellent and helpful service with beautiful hotels and better food than I could ever have dreamed of. - Arbrenne Kelly (Inca Trail & Amazon)

Overall this was a great trip, something I have come to expect from Southern Explorations. Everything from the initial planning to the final execution was arranged with care, professionalism, and much sensitivity to our needs. SE is composed by hard-working idealistic people who put much effort in creating itineraries that combine visits to natural wonders, colonial cities, and archaeological sites. I should add something that cannot be expressed by one’s satisfaction with hotels and transportation and that is the possibility of growth young people can gain in such a trip. I saw how much confidence my youngest son, Alexander, had gained through this trip. And Adrian’s charango (along with the coca leaves we purchased on Chema’s advice) provided much opportunity for us to get to know the other workers better and some of the local residents. Thanks for all for their hard work. - Gregory Jusdanis (Inca Trail)

Southern Explorations really knows what they are doing. They provide a top notch guest experience overall and I would highly recommend them and also consider taking another trip with them.   -Wanda Vermeer (Inca Trail)

The alternative Inca trail was mystical. No roads, no carts, no tourists, no planes overflying, no electric lines.....just remarkably capable, friendly, solicitous and knowledgeable people helping us to enjoy ourselves. This is the first vacation I took where I was not eager to return home. We were enthralled. - Daniel Ehrgood, Pennsyvania (Inca Trail)

It was a real treat to have a guide and driver devoted solely to us. We went at our pace and were able to have much interaction with the guide. Peru is a terrific destination. - Dave Stevenson (Inca Trail)

I cannot say enough about our guide Washington. He was personable and attentive as well as professional and knowledgeable. As a tour manager and tour guide myself for the past 28 years, I can fully appreciate the outstanding job Washington did in sharing his knowledge and passion for his culture and his country with the group. He truly made the trip. - Niki Sepsas, Alabama (Inca Trail)

Peru - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose an itinerary?
A: We offer a wide variety of itineraries suitable for all ages, fitness levels and personal interests. Figuring out the total number of days you are available to travel is a good starting point and your Adventure Travel Coordinator can guide you through the options.
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 go to Peru?
A: Many travelers like to visit Peru between the months of April and October, when the chances of rain are much lower. 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 in Peru?
A: The most traveled section of Peru, where Cusco and Machu Picchu are located, has a dry season (April – October) and a rainy season (November – March) with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s and lows in the 40s. Rainfall and temperatures vary in other regions depending on season and elevation. Please see the weather tab on your specific trip for more details.
Q: What is a typical day like in Peru? 
A: A typical day in Peru will vary from tour to tour, but generally you can expect to start your excursions right after breakfast with a full day of scheduled activities or sightseeing. Contact your Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss the specifics of your tour.
Q: How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy a trip to Peru? 
A: Our trips vary in level of activity, so the requirements differ based on itinerary. It’s important to keep in mind that much of Peru is at or above 8000’ above sea level which can add some difficulty to the activities. Please check our physical ratings for each itinerary to see what may be required of you when assessing your ability to enjoy a trip. If you have any specific questions, please contact your Adventure Travel Coordinator. We have personal experience with these activities and can help you decide whether a trip is right for you.
Q: How much time do we need to visit Peru?
A: We offer trips as short as 5 days, but recommend 7 days to adequately explore the Andean highlands (Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu). If you wish to visit more than one region, we recommend travelling for at least 12 days.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: Peru is a popular destination and space at the most desirable hotels fills up quickly. As a rule, the further in advance you can plan, the more options you will have. We recommend planning at least six to nine months in advance throughout the year, and a year ahead of time for anything over the Christmas holiday season.
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: We primarily work with 3 and 4-star hotels that meets our standards. We also work with several amazing 5-star properties. All of our hotels are clean, comfortable, well-located, offer en suite bathrooms and have been personally vetted by a Southern Explorations’ staff member.
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 trips with a minimum of two and a maximum of eight guests, except on the Inca Trail trips, which have 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 in some areas, such as the Amazon. Some all-inclusive lodges and cruises offer excursions with their in-house guides and groups for those days may exceed eight travelers.
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.