Lima<- ->Cusco

18 days - from $1080

If you love walking there can be few better places than the area around Cusco in Peru. We spend 7 days exploring the Urubamba Valley around Machu Picchu, along a network of paths making up the Inca Trail. We stay with our Quechua hosts as part of our community project in the area, and get a remarkable insight into the lives of the locals. Heading for the coast we take a boat trip out to the wildlife sanctuary of the Ballestas Islands, and visit the Colca Canyon, famed for its condors, as well as the extraordinary Nazca Lines - just some of the highlights on this incredible Peruvian odyssey.

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Itinerary:

If you want to ‘do Peru’, then this trip is a must. Taking in all the highlights (Paracas National Park, the Nazca Lines, Colca Canyon, Arequipa and Machu Picchu) of this comparatively small but oh-so-welcoming South American country, this trip hugs the Peruvian coast, from the present-day capital, Lima to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Our travellers tell us that their favourite part of this trip is the week-long Community Inca Trail to Machu Picchu through the Urubamba Valley. As well as staying with our Quechuan Indian hosts to learn about their culture, you’ll be trekking an ancient trade route which is unique to Dragoman and well away from the tourist hordes trekking the ‘classic Inca Trail’, although that is still an option if you prefer. Another cultural highlight is staying in a typical Peruvian homestay in the quaint village of Raqchi where you’ll sample local dishes and be treated to a ceremonial singing and dancing display.

Details:

Vehicles: Overland expedition vehicle and local minibus
Crew and Guides: 2 crew, local guides as necessary
Group Size: Approx. 24.
Notes: Which Inca Trail? When you book this trip, you will have a choice of either the Community Inca Trail or the Classic Inca Trail. The costs for each are included, but you must tell us when you book, if you want to book the Classic Inca Trail. If you do not tell us this you will automatically be booked onto the Community Inca Trail. Take a look at our guide to the Inca Trails and Machu Picchu.

Trip Reference: XLC