Andean Empire - La Paz to Quito

Itinerary

Day 1-2 La Paz

Arrive in La Paz at any time on day 1. The highest capital in the world, La Paz is a fascinating city with deep indigenous roots. Optional activities include excursions to Tiahuanaco ruins or the Valley of the Moon.

Day 3-5 Puno

Drive through the altiplano to the town of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Stay with a family on Amantani Island and visit the unique Uros floating islands.

Day 6-13 Cuzco/Ollantaytambo/Inca Trail (3B,3L,3D)

A full day’s bus journey takes us through the high Altiplano region to get from Puno to Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire. The landscape is dramatic.Explore the colonial centre and ancient Incan capital of Cuzco before heading out on the Inca Trail. Ollantaytambo is a major Inca ruin site and the starting point for this once in a lifetime journey. Local porters and guides ensure that the trip is worry free, and days are filled with fascinating ruins and spectacular mountain scenery. On the final day, if lucky, watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean mountain peaks from the Sun Gate.

Day 14-17 Arequipa / Colca Canyon

The beautiful colonial city of Arequipa is the departure point for our excursions to the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest. Watch for Andean condors soaring and nesting against the towering canyon walls.

Day 18-19 Nazca / Pisco

Nazca is best known for the mysterious Nazca Lines, where an optional flight is the best way to get a bird’s eye view. Pisco, famous for the drink of the same name, is the starting point for excursions to the Ballestas Islands.

Day 20-22 Lima

Lima's museums are filled with cultural treasures, reflecting a long and varied history. The ‘City of Kings,’ Lima is filled with colonial buildings, and boasts excellent cafes and great nightlife.

Day 23-26 Huanchaco / Mancora

Heading north from Lima along the coast, we reach Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru, known for the nearby Chan-Chan ruins and the resort town of Huanchaco where we spend the evening. Enjoy the relaxing beach atmosphere in Mancora before heading north across the border.

Day 27-28 Cuenca

Cuenca is a laid-back colonial gem filled with galleries and museums. Cajas National Park and the ruins of Ingapirca are possible day trips.

Day 29-30 Baños

A great climate makes this area perfect for hiking, and optional activities include mountain biking, horseback riding and rafting. A dip in the famous hot springs offers a welcome end to the day.

Day 31 - 35 Quito/Amazon Jungle Lodge (3B,3L,3D)

Ecuador's World Heritage capital has a rich colonial past. We include a journey into the lush Amazon jungle.