Great South American Journey - Andean Empire - Quito to La Paz

Itinerary

Arrive Quito

Arrive in Quito at any time.

Day 2-5 Arrive Quito/ Amazon (3B,3L,3D)

Ecuador's World Heritage capital has a rich colonial past. A journey into the depths of the Amazon jungle is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Day 6-7 Baños

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

Day 8-9 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 10-14 Mancora / Huanchaco

Head south across the border to the relaxing beach town of Mancora. Later continue to Trujillo, the largest city in northern Peru, known for the nearby Chan-Chan ruins and the resort town of Huanchaco, our rest stop for the evening.

Day 15-17 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 18-19 Pisco / Nazca

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 20-24 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 25-31 Cuzco / Ollantaytambo /Inca Trail (3B,3L,3D)

Fly to Cuzco and explore the colonial centre and ancient Incan capital 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 watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean mountain peaks from the Sun Gate.

Day 32-34 Puno / Lake Titicaca

An unforgettable journey through the high Altiplano region from Cuzco to Puno ends at the highest navigable lake in the world. Stay with a family on Amantani Island on our overnight excursion and visit the Uros floating islands.

Day 35 La Paz

An impressive journey along the shores of Lake Titicaca ends at the highest capital city in the world: La Paz, Bolivia. La Paz is a fascinating city with deep indigenous roots; optional activities include excursions to Tiahuanaco ruins or the Valley of the Moon.