Amazon to the Andes (Lima)
Day 01: Feel free to arrive at any time in Lima. Once you’ve settled into your hotel, take the chance to explore the city at your leisure. Later in the evening, there will be a welcome meeting.
For those attending the Lima Cooking Class, remember it doesn’t include extra time in Lima. It’s advisable to book pre-trip accommodation. You’ll be picked up from your hotel around 10:00 (10:30 from Aug-Dec) for an immersive culinary experience, returning by 13:00.
Please be aware that Peru occasionally experiences hot water shortages and power outages, even in upgraded accommodations. Your patience and understanding are appreciated as these situations are beyond our control.
Day 02: Catch a flight to Cusco and dive into a day of city delights. Shop, wander, and consider booking a Cusco Cooking Class. Don’t miss out on a city tour. Then, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Spend the day at leisure, acclimatizing to the altitude, and soaking in the city’s charm. If you’ve booked the Cusco Cooking Class, expect a pickup from your hotel at around 12:30 for an immersive culinary experience, culminating in a traditional Peruvian meal at a local market and restaurant. Return to your hotel by approximately 16:00.
Day 03: Embark on an immersive journey through the Sacred Valley with a knowledgeable guide. Explore the G Adventures-backed women’s weaving co-op and delve into the vibrant world of pottery in a local community. Refuel with a delicious lunch at the Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. Afterward, choose between a scenic hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses or a stroll through cobblestone streets, perhaps stopping at a traditional Chicheria for a taste of corn beer.
Day 04: Embark from Ollantaytambo in a van towards km 82, the starting point of the Inca Trail. Begin your journey with a serene day of trekking along winding streams, breathtaking Andean vistas, and ancient Incan remnants. Traverse diverse flora that evolves with the seasons, encountering smaller ruin sites such as Llactapata along the way.
Note: A team of local porters, chefs, and guides will handle all logistics throughout the hike. With porters shouldering the bulk of the load, you’ll only need a small daypack for essentials like water, rain gear, snacks, and a camera.
Day 05: Embark on your journey early to conquer the challenging ascent to Warmiwañusca, famously named Dead Woman’s Pass. Standing at 4,198m (13,769 ft), it marks the pinnacle of the trek. By early afternoon, most trekkers arrive at the campsite, allowing plenty of time for rejuvenation and leisure.
Day 06: Today’s journey unveils two more mountain passes and ancient remnants. Beginning with Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft), adventurers may catch glimpses of the majestic Cordillera Vilcabamba on clear days. Ascend gently through the cloud forest to the second pass, adorned with original Incan architecture, peaking at 3,700m (12,136 ft). From this vantage point, soak in the breathtaking vistas of the Urubamba Valley. Descending to 3,650m (11,972 ft), encounter the enchanting ruins of Phuyupatamarca, known as the “town above the clouds.” Choose to camp here or press on for another 1.5 hours to the Wiñay Wayna ruins, meaning “forever young,” nestled at 2,650m (8,694 ft).
Day 07: Embark on the last leg of the hike at dawn, aiming to reach the Sun Gate just as the sun peeks over the horizon. Marvel at the majestic Machu Picchu ruins as they unfold before you, weather permitting. Descend for a guided exploration of the ancient site, then board the train for your return journey to Cusco.
Day 08: Spend your leisure day in Cusco discovering its charms further. Consider embarking on an adventure to Rainbow Mountain, a renowned hiking destination. Secure your spot in advance during booking or reach out to your tour coordinator or travel advisor for guidance.
Day 09: Embark on an adventure to Puerto Maldonado, nestled deep in the Amazon Jungle. Upon arrival, transfer to the G Lodge Amazon via a scenic motorized boat ride, offering glimpses of diverse bird species along the river and forest edges. This region boasts the highest concentration of bird sightings globally.
Staffed predominantly by local community members, including knowledgeable guides fluent in multiple languages, the lodge provides insights into the area’s abundant flora, fauna, and indigenous practices. Experience the blend of native architecture and eco-friendly amenities, with comfortable rooms featuring mosquito netting, flush toilets, solar-heated showers, and candlelit ambiance. Note: During peak seasons, alternate accommodations in nearby lodges may be arranged.
Day 10: Embark on expert-led nature tours to discover wildlife at nearby oxbow lakes and jungle paths. Relax in a hammock, explore the swimming hole, or visit a local plantation. Cruise for caimans post-dinner. Rise early to experience the jungle’s raw beauty. Wander through the forest, then canoe on the oxbow lake to seek anacondas, giant river otters, or black caimans. Even if elusive, abundant birdlife and fascinating plants await discovery.
Day 11: Return to Lima for an elective farewell dinner and evening out. Savor a scrumptious breakfast from the Amazon before journeying to the airport via motorized boat and van. Then, choose to indulge in a final dinner or sip on Pisco Sours in Lima.
Day 12: Feel free to embark whenever suits you.