Signature Peru: The Inca heartland and Amazon Rainforest
10 days from £2,510
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
You will be met at Cusco airport and transferred by road to the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas. Once the bread-basket of the Inca empire, it was heavily populated in imperial times and scores of archaeological sites remain, where well-preserved ruins bear witness to the highly developed society that the Incas created. Overnight in the heart of the valley for two nights, beneath the dome of a vast, clear Andean sky.
Deep within the heartland of the ancient Inca Empire, the secluded Casitas del Arco Iris is on the fringes of Urubamba in the Sacred Valley. It is a lovely spot surrounded by beautiful gardens where abundant flowers attract a wide variety of butterflies and bird life.
Consisting of a handful of spacious, homely bungalows scattered throughout the grounds, the accommodation is top-notch. Décor calls to mind a delightful country cottage and natural materials dominate. Further cosiness is added by the fireplaces in every bungalow.
The hotel’s restaurant serves gourmet Peruvian and international specialities prepared with organic ingredients grown on site. By day, there is much to explore in the peaceful environs of the Sacred Valley where trips to a wealth of archaeological sites and lesser-known beauty spots can be arranged by the friendly and helpful staff, while by night the warmth of the fire and the beauty of star-flecked night skies make the hotel an ideal place to unwind.
Central to the Casitas’ existence is the charitable foundation set up by the Dutch owner, who invests all proceeds in education, healthcare and training for deprived children and young people in the local area.
Embark on a journey through the enchanting Sacred Valley, where you’ll visit several villages and temple fortresses. Your adventure begins in Pisaq, exploring both the charming village and the ancient terraces and fortifications perched high above. The engineering and preservation here are truly unrivaled.
As you travel from the flat valley floor, the sculpted hillsides rise like a green staircase to the heavens. Continue through this picturesque, patchwork valley to the fortress and temple of Ollantaytambo. Here, the snow-capped Andean cordillera provides a stunning backdrop.
The fortress boasts intact colonial grid plans and original Inca foundations, offering breathtaking views over the sloping hillsides and into the fertile valley below.
Deep within the heartland of the ancient Inca Empire, the secluded Casitas del Arco Iris is on the fringes of Urubamba in the Sacred Valley. It is a lovely spot surrounded by beautiful gardens where abundant flowers attract a wide variety of butterflies and bird life.
Consisting of a handful of spacious, homely bungalows scattered throughout the grounds, the accommodation is top-notch. Décor calls to mind a delightful country cottage and natural materials dominate. Further cosiness is added by the fireplaces in every bungalow.
The hotel’s restaurant serves gourmet Peruvian and international specialities prepared with organic ingredients grown on site. By day, there is much to explore in the peaceful environs of the Sacred Valley where trips to a wealth of archaeological sites and lesser-known beauty spots can be arranged by the friendly and helpful staff, while by night the warmth of the fire and the beauty of star-flecked night skies make the hotel an ideal place to unwind.
Central to the Casitas’ existence is the charitable foundation set up by the Dutch owner, who invests all proceeds in education, healthcare and training for deprived children and young people in the local area.
Traveling just 1.5 hours by train from Ollantaytambo, you reach the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu. As the Urubamba River winds its way through a narrow gorge between densely forested granite hills, the single-track railway clings to the right bank, passing through tiny hamlets that are little more than clusters of shacks by the tracks. Near the base of the mountain, on a saddle where the citadel stands, lies the bustling town of Machu Picchu (also known as Aguas Calientes), which caters to visitors with its artisan markets, bars, and restaurants.
The majestic, ruined city, reclaimed from the tropical cloud forest, can be accessed by bus along a winding road or on foot via a near-vertical rocky path. Discovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, the city was completely buried beneath jungle vegetation at the time. Perched on a ridge spur amid forested peaks and above a roaring river canyon, Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable experience. During your visit, you’ll embark on a guided tour of the ruins, delving into the fascinating history of this mountaintop masterpiece, before heading back down to spend the night in the nearby town.
Owned by the reputable Casa Andina group, this contemporary hotel prides itself on its prime location opposite the railway station at the centre of Machu Picchu village. Guests arriving by train have the treat of being delivered quite literally to the door.
While the building’s five-storey grey panelled exterior is a little drab, the inside is fresh, clean and modern with bright furniture, marble floors, brilliant white walls and attractive artworks.
More than 50 guestrooms are simple, functional and modern in design. White walls and bedding are interrupted only by a slim brightly coloured throw hung across the end of the bed, a contemporary homage to the colourful traditional weavings of the area. Superior rooms and suites have the added benefit of views over the Vilcanota River. The hotel’s riverside restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows which optimise the view.
This morning you can take the opportunity to return to the magnificent site of Machu Picchu (optional and at additional cost). Rising early and catching the first buses up to the site is well worth it, as the area can be much quieter in the early morning. You’ll be greeted by swirling mists around the surrounding mountain tops, creating a mystical atmosphere.
You have the option to climb the steep and challenging Huayna Picchu mountain if you would like to see the ruins from a different perspective (advance booking required), or you can enjoy the thermal baths or take a walk in the village below. Afterward, return to Cusco by rail and road.
Just a few blocks from the central Plaza de Armas, this contemporary hotel offers views of the Koricancha Temple and is within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions.
The design takes into consideration the needs of business and leisure travellers who are looking for up-to-date comforts. With just a nod to Cusco’s heritage in décor, the mid-range property has 50 rooms each with a range of amenities from safety deposit box to mini bar, hairdryer and Wifii. Facilities include room service, a laundry service and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
This hotel (one of a small chain) is run by a Peruvian company which places a strong emphasis on service, so the staff are very friendly and welcoming.
The name Cusco derives from the Quechua word for “navel,” signifying its central location within the Inca Empire. Today, Cusco’s impressive original Inca walls showcase extraordinary craftsmanship, while its bustling squares are adorned with ornate baroque colonial churches. It’s a lively city where shoeshine boys and postcard sellers vie for your attention along cobbled streets lined with handicraft shops and cafés. As evening falls, the town center comes alive with people flocking to the numerous restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Today, embark on a guided tour of the city. You’ll explore Q’oricancha, once the principal Inca Sun Temple, known for its intricate stonework. Next, visit a traditional textiles museum before heading to San Pedro market, where you’ll discover a vast array of meats, fruits, and vegetables.
Just a few blocks from the central Plaza de Armas, this contemporary hotel offers views of the Koricancha Temple and is within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions.
The design takes into consideration the needs of business and leisure travellers who are looking for up-to-date comforts. With just a nod to Cusco’s heritage in décor, the mid-range property has 50 rooms each with a range of amenities from safety deposit box to mini bar, hairdryer and Wifii. Facilities include room service, a laundry service and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
This hotel (one of a small chain) is run by a Peruvian company which places a strong emphasis on service, so the staff are very friendly and welcoming.
Cusco is a compact city, easy to explore on foot independently. You are at leisure to discover the colourful markets, the many churches and museums, and to wander the attractive narrow streets.
There are optional excursions in the surrounding region, including a trip to Maras and Moray, about an hour’s drive from Cusco. Moray is a system of ancient agricultural irrigation paths which now form circular depressions in the earth, with wonderful views into the Sacred Valley and in the shadow of the snowy peak of Mount Veronica. From here it is a short drive to the salt pans at Maras, circular pans of glistening white carved into the mountainside. Feeling you’d like to be active? White-water rafting, cycling and e-biking are just some of your other options.
Just a few blocks from the central Plaza de Armas, this contemporary hotel offers views of the Koricancha Temple and is within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions.
The design takes into consideration the needs of business and leisure travellers who are looking for up-to-date comforts. With just a nod to Cusco’s heritage in décor, the mid-range property has 50 rooms each with a range of amenities from safety deposit box to mini bar, hairdryer and Wifii. Facilities include room service, a laundry service and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
This hotel (one of a small chain) is run by a Peruvian company which places a strong emphasis on service, so the staff are very friendly and welcoming.
Transfer to the airport, where you will board a flight to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and embark on bus ride to the Tambopata River. Continue by boat and navigate along the winding waters, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the jungle.
Arriving at your comfortable Amazon lodge, you’ll settle in and prepare for a few days of exciting wildlife-based excursions.
This atmospheric lodge, of simple rustic design but offering contemporary comforts, is a popular choice for visits to the Peruvian Amazon. Two small clay licks near the lodge attract colourful parakeets, making for a memorable visit at dawn. There are loads of exciting rainforest experiences you can take part in and the guides are knowledgeable and skilled.
A highlight is the impressive 30m high observation tower, penetrating the treetop canopy, which offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding tropical jungle. Drones are released from the top, to take photos as part of aerobotanical scientific research – you can help programme the drone and watch this happen.
You’ll stay in one of 30 modern, en suite guest rooms featuring polished wood, above is a loft space open to the steeply-pitched thatch roofs. The rooms are connected by raised boardwalks; there are no windows, but one wall is open to the forest: you will be able to listen to all the sounds of the jungle’s nocturnal life but will be safe and sound under your mosquito net.
A cocktail bar, hand-made hammocks, an artisan boutique and a spa offering Amazonian massages add yet more value to the experience. This agreeable lodge has won an award for its innovative family programme – children will have a wonderful t time here, both adventurous and educational.
From guided jungle treks and canopy walks to boat trips and nocturnal wildlife spotting, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the Amazon. Choose from a variety of activities that bring you up close with the incredible flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.
This atmospheric lodge, of simple rustic design but offering contemporary comforts, is a popular choice for visits to the Peruvian Amazon. Two small clay licks near the lodge attract colourful parakeets, making for a memorable visit at dawn. There are loads of exciting rainforest experiences you can take part in and the guides are knowledgeable and skilled.
A highlight is the impressive 30m high observation tower, penetrating the treetop canopy, which offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding tropical jungle. Drones are released from the top, to take photos as part of aerobotanical scientific research – you can help programme the drone and watch this happen.
You’ll stay in one of 30 modern, en suite guest rooms featuring polished wood, above is a loft space open to the steeply-pitched thatch roofs. The rooms are connected by raised boardwalks; there are no windows, but one wall is open to the forest: you will be able to listen to all the sounds of the jungle’s nocturnal life but will be safe and sound under your mosquito net.
A cocktail bar, hand-made hammocks, an artisan boutique and a spa offering Amazonian massages add yet more value to the experience. This agreeable lodge has won an award for its innovative family programme – children will have a wonderful t time here, both adventurous and educational.
Travel back to the airport and either continue home or extend your adventure elsewhere.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Peru - Sacred Valley of the Incas
We think of the Sacred Valley as the heartland of the Inca Empire – fertile valleys, snow-capped mountains and ancient stone fortresses make it one of Peru’s most captivating landscapes. Stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, it’s home to colourful markets, traditional villages, remarkable archaeological sites and some of the country’s most spectacular scenery.
Peru - Machu Picchu
Few archaeological sites in the world compare to Machu Picchu, where ancient Inca stonework clings to a mountain ridge high above a jungle-clad valley. Nestled among cloud-wreathed Andean peaks at 2,430m, this corner of Machu Picchu Peru combines spectacular scenery, remarkable architecture and fascinating history to create one of South America’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
Peru - Cusco
Surrounded by the Andean mountains, the former capital of the Inca Empire boasts intricate temples and golden-hued colonial architecture. Explore rugged landscapes and fascinating architecture with a Cusco holiday from Journey Latin America.
Peru - The Peruvian Amazon (south)
Rainforest, rivers and ox-bow lakes make the southern Peruvian Amazon one of the most biodiverse corners of the planet, and one of the best Peruvian Amazon holidays you can build into a wider Peru trip. Monkeys, macaws and caiman turn up on foot, by boat and even by bicycle, all within easy reach of Cusco.
Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Peru on this private tour. Begin your journey in the Sacred Valley of the Andes, visiting the Pisaq ruins and market, as well as the ancient Ollantaytambo Inca ruins.
Next, embark on a scenic train ride to the legendary Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of this iconic site. Afterward, return to Cusco by rail and road, spending a few days immersed in the heart of the Inca Empire. During your stay, take advantage of optional excursions to Maras and Moray, or indulge in activities like white-water rafting, cycling, or e-biking..
Your adventure continues with a flight to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon. From there, travel downriver to a comfortable jungle lodge and choose from a variety of wildlife-based activities.
Heloise Buxton
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Transport
Two scenic road journeys (2 hours each); two rail journeys (1.5 hours each); one flight (1 hour); 2 bus journeys (1 hour each); 2 boat journeys (45 minutes each).
- Accommodation
On this tour we use good value mid-range hotels, they are small, friendly establishments, with well equipped ensuite rooms. In the Amazon we use a comfortable lodge with good access to the wildlife. Alternative options are available in all regions.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, lunch days 2 and 3, dinner on day 7, and all meals on days 8 and 9.
- Guides
We carefully select our local partners, some of whom we have worked with for over 25 years. Their English-speaking guides understand the expectations of our clients very well, and are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return.
- Summary Of Nights
10 days, 9 nights: Sacred Valley 2; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 3; Amazon 3.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Peru is the sol.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in all major cities and towns, and so taking a debit or credit card with a PIN number is the most convenient way of withdrawing money while on your trip, and in most shops and restaurants you can also pay by card. However, since cards can get lost, damaged, withheld or blocked, you should not rely exclusively on a card to access funds.
We recommend that additionally you take a reasonable quantity of US dollars cash (no more than is covered by your insurance), which you can exchange into local currency, and possibly some travellers’ cheques, though these are gradually falling out of use (American Express are the most widely accepted). Dollar bills should be in good condition, soiled or torn bills may be refused. You can take sterling, but the exchange rate is not always competitive or even available, restricting the number of places where you can change money.
- Daily Spend
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses but a budget of around US$35 per day should cover the cost of meals not included in the holiday itinerary, drinks and the odd souvenir. Eat at the best restaurants and you will pay considerably more.
- Tipping
Tips are welcomed and local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income.
Most service industry workers will expect a tip of some kind and so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, taxi drivers and the like. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
Tipping guidelines can be found in our Briefing Dossier.
- Insurance
Travel insurance is essential.
Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance page.
- Airport Taxes
If you have purchased your flights through Journey Latin America, the international departure tax and taxes on internal flights are usually included in the ticket.
- Trip Suitability
This holiday is suitable for all able-bodied, reasonably fit visitors, including families. Although there are some early starts, there is also some time at leisure.
- Visas
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- Climate
The rainy season in the Andes runs between November and March, when there are showers most afternoons. The dry season is in June, July, and August, when the sun is strong during the day, but at night the temperature drops dramatically (from freezing point to 10°C). May, September, and October are less predictable, with both rainy and sunny spells.
In contrast, Puerto Maldonado in the Peruvian Amazon experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The rainy season runs from October to April, characterized by abundant rainfall and lush greenery. The dry season, from May to August, offers a respite with lower rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. The average annual temperature is around 24.9°C (76.8°F), making it a warm and inviting destination.
- Altitude
Your stays in the Sacred Valley (2800-3000m) and Cusco (3400m), are at high altitude. Although you fly into Cusco, you’ll transfer directly to the Sacred Valley, then Machu Picchu (2000m). This minimises the time spent at altitude and gives your body time to acclimatise. Most people are only mildly affected and if you drink plenty of water and don’t exert yourself or drink alcohol for the first couple of days, you’ll probably be OK. Symptoms vary: most common are mild headaches, slight nausea and breathlessness. If you don’t recover in a day or two speak to our representatives; in very rare instances it is necessary to descend to lower altitudes.
Altitude is not an issue once you reach the Amazon.
Please refer to our Briefing Dossier for further information.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
For day-to-day wear you should go prepared to encounter all seasons. Both warm clothing and a sun hat are essential at altitude; a light fleece jacket and a waterproof/breathable outer shell makes a good combination. Trousers, skirt or shorts made from light, quick-drying synthetic materials work well. If you plan to eat in smart restaurants, although clothing is not formal (no need for jacket and tie), something quite smart would be appropriate. Dark clothing is better for wildlife spotting in the rainforest, while long sleeves and trousers will help protect you from mosquitos.
Strong, comfortable footwear is essential and you should bring insect repellant, sun block and sun glasses. You should take swimwear for pools though most hotels don’t have them. Due to luggage restrictions on the train to Machu Picchu, main luggage must be left in Cusco. You can take up to 10kgs per person on the train and an overnight holdall is recommended to separate your luggage for the night spent away from Cusco.
Please get in touch with the office before departure if you have any doubts. Good equipment is very important and hard to come by in South America.
- Vaccinations
Preventative vaccinations are recommended against the following: typhoid; polio; tetanus; hepatitis A. You should consult your GP for specific requirements.
You can also find helpful information on the Masta Travel Health website.
- Water To Go
With economic accommodation and shared excursions, this trip is suitable for single travellers.
- When is the best time to visit The Southern Peruvian Amazon?
The Peruvian selva enjoys a hot (30°C), humid tropical climate all year round, though there may be cold snaps. The high water, rainy season is Dec-May, a few degrees cooler than the rest of the year. At this time all waterways are navigable including small creeks, so opportunities to spot mammals are more frequent than during the sunnier dry season. From Jun-Nov the low water reveals many jungle trails, where you can get close to the vegetation, and this is a good time to spot migratory birds in flight.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What language is spoken in The Southern Peruvian Amazon?
The main language spoken in the Amazon is Spanish.
- What currency do I need in The Southern Peruvian Amazon?
The Peruvian Nuevo Sol is the main currency used in the Amazon. There are banks and ATMs in Puerto Maldonado where notes in local currency or US dollars can be withdrawn using a UK credit or debit card. Several money exchange offices exchange US dollars cash but the rate may be poor).
- What is the time difference between The Southern Peruvian Amazon and the UK?
The time difference between the Amazon and the UK is GMT -5 hours.
- What does a visit to The Southern Peruvian Amazon combine well with?
Cusco (1 hour by air) and Machu Picchu (1 hour by air and 4 hours by land); Lake Titicaca (1 hour by air to Cusco and 6-9 hours by road or 12 hours by train).
- How do I get to The Southern Peruvian Amazon?
The southern Amazon: flights to Puerto Maldonado from Cusco take 1 hour. From Cusco to Manú by air is about 1 hour and 6-9 hours by road and boat. Longer by bike!
- What is the southern Peruvian Amazon known for?
Rainforest lodges, exceptional wildlife, ox-bow lakes, macaw clay licks and easy access from Cusco and Machu Picchu.
- What wildlife can I see in the Peruvian Amazon?
Monkeys, caiman, macaws, reptiles and a huge range of birds turn up across the region, especially around Tambopata and Manu.
- When is the best time to visit The Sacred Valley?
The Sacred Valley can be visited throughout the year. The dry season, when sunny days can be expected, runs May-Oct. Travel in Apr-Jun and you’ll find the l fields full of ripening produce.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What language is spoken in The Sacred Valley?
The languages spoken in The Sacred Valley are Spanish and Quechua.
- What currency do I need in The Sacred Valley?
The Peruvian Nuevo Sol is the main currency used in The Sacred Valley. US dollars can be exchanged for local currency in a couple of small shops in Ollantaytambo and Pisac but you are better off using an ATM in Cusco or at the airport before heading into the valley.
- What is the time difference between The Sacred Valley and the UK?
The time difference between The Sacred Valley and the UK is GMT -5 hours.
- What does a visit to The Sacred Valley combine well with?
Cusco, 53 km by road; Machu Picchu, 23km by rail; Tambopata and the lodges of the southern Amazon, 1 hour by air from Cusco; Lake Titicaca, 6-9 hours by road or 10 hours by train from Cusco; Colca Canyon, 280km by road.
- How do I get to The Sacred Valley?
Flights to Cusco from Lima take one hour. You will then need to drive approximately 2 hours to The Sacred Valley.
- What key events are there in The Sacred Valley?
Semana Santa, Easter. Processions and other celebrations in towns and villages.
Carnival: Feb/Mar. Celebrations start in Pisac 7 weeks before Easter Sunday with competing dance groups and continue in local villages.
Reyes Magos: 6 Jan in Ollantaytambo. Commemorates the Three Wise Men, with statues of poncho-clad Jesus brought down from the mountains. A fair, bull-fighting and dancing.
Señor de Choquekillca: Variable, 50 days after Easter Sunday; but spreading over 4 days. Ollantaytambo celebrates its patron saint’s day with dances, processions, masses, a cockfight and bullfight.
- Is the Sacred Valley higher than Cusco?
No – much of the Sacred Valley sits at a lower altitude than Cusco, which makes it a great place to acclimatise.
- When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu can be visited throughout the year. With its humid climate, the city can be shrouded in mist at any time, but you’d be unlucky if the sun didn’t shine at some time during your visit. Most rain falls Dec-Mar.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What language is spoken in Machu Picchu?
Spanish is the main language spoken in Machu Picchu.
- What currency do I need to visit Machu Picchu?
The Peruvian Nuevo Sol is the main currency in Machu PIcchu. There are no banks in the village and exchange rates for cash are poor. Obtain notes in advance in local currency or US dollars from the many ATMs in Cusco or at airports, using a UK credit or debit card.
- What is the time difference between the UK and Machu Picchu?
The time difference between the UK and Machu PIcchu is GMT -5 hours.
- What areas Combine well with Machu Picchu?
On a holiday to Peru Machu Picchu combines well with the Sacred Valley of the Incas, 23 km by rail; Cusco, 75 km by road and rail; Tambopata and the lodges of the southern Amazon, 1 hour by air from Cusco; Lake Titicaca, 6-9 hours by road or 10 hours by train from Cusco.
- How do I get to Machu Picchu?
To get to Machu Picchu fly to Cusco from Lima which takes one hour; from there it’s a 4 hour land journey to the site.
- What key events take place at Machu Picchu?
Cruz Velacuy: variable dates in May or Jun in Machu Picchu village. The community decorates the cross of its church and prepares it for its procession to churches in neighbouring villages. This celebration held in gratitude to pre-Columbian gods for bountiful harvests, also serves as a setting for folklore shows.
- When is the best time to visit Cusco?
Cusco can be visited throughout the year. Most visitors will use climate as a criterion but others may be attracted by any one of numerous fiestas: Inti Raymi, Easter, Corpus Christi, Christmas. The dry season when sunny days can be expected runs May-Oct but in Jun-Jul it can be below freezing at night. Rain falls Jan-Mar.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What language is spoken in Cusco?
The main language spoken in Cusco is Spanish.
- What currency do I need in Cusco?
The Peruvian Nuevo Sol is the main currency used in Cusco. Notes in local currency or US dollars can be withdrawn from the many ATMs using a UK credit or debit card. Numerous money exchanges (casas de cambio) change US dollars cash (few accept euros or sterling and the rate may be poor).
- What is the time difference between Cusco and the UK?
The time difference between Cusco and the UK is GMT -5 hours.
- What does a visit to Cusco combine with?
Cusco can be used as base to explore the following places: the Sacred Valley of the Incas olnly 53 km by road; Machu Picchu is 75km by road and rail from Cusco; Tambopata and the lodges of the southern Amazon, 1 hour by air; Lake Titicaca, 6-9 hours by road or 10 hours by train; Colca Canyon, 236km by road.
- How do I get to Cusco?
Cusco is just a 1 hour flight from Lima
- What key events are there in Cusco?
Inti Raymi: 24 Jun. Inca festival of the winter solstice celebrated at the temple of Sacsayhuamán.
El Señor de los Temblores: Variable. Vast Easter Monday religious procession.
Corpus Christi: Jun. Statues of the Virgin Mary and saints have a day out from their churches and are paraded to the Cathedral.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Travel on one of the continent’s most scenic rail journeys to arrive at the incomparable Lost City of the Incas.
Explore the world-famous Lost City of the Incas: the undisputed jewel in Peru’s crown.
Take a guided stroll through the historic Inca capital with its extraordinary mix of ancient stonework and colonial architecture.
Keep your eyes peeled for magical glimpses of jungle wildlife while exploring the Amazon on land and water.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Well-run and stylishly decorated wildlife lodge, offering a particularly varied range of excursions and an award-winning family programme.
Delightfully secluded and homely hotel surrounded by flower-filled gardens in the heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley. All proceeds go to a charitable foundation for deprived youngsters.
This Peruvian-owned mid-range hotel in Machu Picchu village is a convenient base for visits to the ruins.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Nazca Lines + Paracas
Travel to the Paracas Peninsula and explore the bird-smothered Ballestas Islands by boat. Fly over the Nazca Lines for a bird’s eye view of the giant symbols and lines carved into skeletal desert rock by the pre-Columbian Nazca people. Day 1: From Lima, travel by public coach south to Paracas (3.5hrs) on the Panamerican Highway,…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
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