JOURNEY OF
Duration
18 days
Max. Altitude
4030 M.S.N.M
Difficulty
Moderate - Difficult
Gruop size
Min 2 - Max 8
Overview
In this unforgettable adventure you immerse yourself culturally through both Peru and Bolivia. Both countries were part of the Tawantinsuyu Empire and hold Andean wisdom. After a warm welcome in Lima, you will discover the Amazon rainforest. Explore the jungle and learn more about nature and wildlife. Later make a trip to the Sacred Valley next, where you will connect with the Andean spirits, thereby experiencing more spiritual ceremonies. Visit Ollantaytambo and then connect with the energy of Incas at the ancient Machu Picchu. At Lake Titicaca, you’ll visit the Uros and Amantaní Islands as your adventure continues before Bolivia. After crossing the border to Bolivia you will have an opportunity to discover the energy of La Paz and the natural wonder Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, where you will see Incahuasi Island and the Train Cemetery. This trip is a deeply transformative journey that connects you with the wisdom of nature and with ancient traditions.
Plan your trip
Essence of Cusco
Itinerary
Welcome to Peru!
Route: Home → Lima
Welcome to Peru! Your adventure of discovery commences once you arrive upon Peruvian land. Upon our arrival in Lima, we will greet you right at the airport and transfer you so comfortably to your hotel, thus ensuring a smooth and relaxing start for you to your adventure.
Overnight in Lima: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels
Meals: None
Into the Jungle
Route: Lima → Puerto Maldonado → Tambopata Jungle
At appropriate time this morning we will bring you to the airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado, the entry into the Amazon and Peru’s Biodiversity Capital. Upon arrival, our team will greet you at the airport and take you on a brief city tour to get a feel for this jungle town. Next, we’ll proceed onward directly to Puerto Capitanía, at which point we’ll hop onto a motorized riverboat in order to cruise along the Madre de Dios River. As we glide through the Amazon, keep an eye out for wildlife – if we’re lucky, we’ll spot capybaras, caimans, turtles, herons, along with maybe even a few curious monkeys.
When we reach the lodge, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink. Settle into your bungalow then. After such a delicious lunch, we will take such a guided walk along such an interpretive jungle trail, leading onward to Caimán Cocha, such a small lake where caimans still lurk beneath the water’s surface. As the sun noticeably sets, get ready for a stunning display of various colors. This is over the Amazon, and it is an unforgettable sight. Back within the lodge, a delicious dinner will be awaiting, followed during a relaxing evening. Whether you opt to unwind at just the bar, play at least a game, or simply listen to all of the sounds that the jungle makes, this is surely the start to your Amazon adventure.
Overnight in the Jungle: Ecoamazonia “Bungalows”
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A Day in the Heart of the Amazon
Route: Tambopata Jungle
The day starts with the soothing sounds from birds singing in the Amazon air. After such a hearty breakfast, we’ll gear up from now for a morning packed full of adventure along with discovery.
We’ll begin our hike along specifically designed trails, crossing bridges throughout rivers and across gorges. Along the way, we’ll explore the flooded forest and see lush greenery. We will also encounter a variety of wildlife. Our adventure will lead us toward Lake Apu Victor, where the crystal-clear waters are surrounded by marshes and by towering trees—truly a peaceful sight.
From that spot, we will head on up to the Observation Deck for a truly stunning panoramic view of the lake. We might spot several macaws, toucans, herons, and perhaps even caimans or turtles. We might even catch a glimpse of the rare Giant Otter, if we’re lucky. It is one of the Amazon’s most amazing creatures. After taking of it all in, we’ll return to the lodge for a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Monkey Island, exactly five minutes by boat from the lodge. As we fully walk through the island, we’ll view monkeys often swinging through each of the trees, including many capuchins and small lion monkeys, along with additional wildlife such as multiple sloths and coatis. The energetic jungle truly is alive with birds and with creatures all around it.
To successfully finish out the day, we will all enjoy a stunning sunset view over the river just before heading back to the lodge for a very well-deserved dinner, carefully sharing the entire day’s experiences and special memories of the wild Amazon.
Overnight in the Jungle: Ecoamazonia “Bungalows”
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Discovering Hidden Gems in the Amazon
Route: Tambopata Jungle
We’ll start during the day with the soothing sounds from birds singing within the Amazon. Following a satisfying morning meal, we’ll start off on an adventure through the pristine rainforest. Led by a native specialist, we will trek to Lost Cocha, a scenic locale that is habitat to diverse fauna. If we are quite lucky, we just might spot some otters, plus caimans, then turtles, also tapirs, with colorful birds, and indeed even a jaguar. This area exists as a portion of the Ecoamazonia Ecological Reserve, a notably pristine environment filled completely by swamps as well as incredibly lush «aguajales.»
Next, we’ll head to the Observation Deck, where we can take in wide-ranging views of the endless rainforest. Afterward, we’ll get to enjoy a relaxing canoe ride right on the lake. After the ride, we will be returning to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch.
Overnight in the Jungle: Ecoamazonia “Bungalows”
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Jungle to Sacred Valley
Route: Tambopata Jungle → Puerto Maldonado → Cusco → Urubamba
After a restful night, you’ll wake up to the calming sounds of Amazon birds singing for you. We’ll start the day with a hearty breakfast. Then we’ll head back to Puerto Maldonado. From that point, we will then catch a flight to Cusco.
Upon our arrival in Cusco, our team member will meet you at the airport and drive you to the Sacred Valley. On the adventure, we shall stop for a truly delicious lunch with authentic Peruvian flavors. As we then descend further into that Sacred Valley, you’ll start just to feel even the refreshing change of both scenery and also energy. Once we reach your hotel, we’ll settle in and have a general introductory meeting to go over the activities planned for your trip and we’ll take part in a short, peaceful Welcome Ceremony to clear our energy as well as connect with the Andean spirits.
Overnight in Sacred Valley: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
A Sacred Day of Connection and Blessings in Chinchero
Destinations: Urubamba → Chinchero
After breakfast, we will then head on to the beautiful Chinchero lake, where we will learn more about the balance between feminine and masculine energy and then receive a meaningful blessing. Then, we’ll participate in that special Despacho Ceremony. It will be led by a Master of the Rainbow lineage. During this ritual, we will offer gifts and show our thankfulness, adoration, and regard for Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (mountain spirits).
To finish up, we’ll head on to the peaceful Piuray Lagoon for a beautiful Connection Ceremony. Here, we’ll offer a great deal of our thanks to Pachamama as well as to the Apus, quite greatly deepening our connection with the spirit of these sacred lands.
Overnight in Chinchero: Tambo de la Ñusta, Kantu or Chinchero Boutique
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Energy and Mesa Work
Destinations: Chinchero
Your day with the mesa, the sacred Andean healing bundle, still begins with such a grounding ritual, even inviting you to center yourself right in the present moment. Each individual item throughout the mesa – khuyas (certain stones), diverse plants, and select symbols – still holds the deep wisdom of the natural world and ancient ancestral traditions, thereby offering key guidance and great balance. You’ll set intentions with the Mesa and share reflections.
You’ll deepen your connection to its transformative energy. By the end of the day, you’ll carry the quiet strength as well as clarity of the Mesa within, a renewed sense of complete alignment, and a stronger bond with the Andean spirits.
Overnight in Chinchero: Tambo de la Ñusta, Kantu or Chinchero Boutique
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day at Leisure
Route: Chinchero
A free day in Chinchero is an opportunity to relax and absorb the calm setting. You can freely explore through the village at your individual own pace, greatly enjoying the very colorful textiles as well as the quite stunning views of the mighty Andes. In the event you’re in the mood for a little quiet time, take a leisurely walk all around Chinchero Lake.
Or relax at a nearby local café, fully enjoying the slow rhythm of life here. Whether or not you choose to reflect, explore, or to simply relax, it’s the perfect time for you to connect with the beauty of this special place.
Overnight in Chinchero: Tambo de la Ñusta, Kantu or Chinchero Boutique.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Exploring Ollantaytambo and the Four Elements
Route: Chinchero → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, we start our day off with a trip to the Inkariy Museum, where we explore the enormous history of pre-Incan cultures and get a better sense of the societies that molded this country.
Next, we travel to Ollantaytambo, the Sanctuary of the Wind. It is indeed an awe-inspiring ancient observatory and ceremonial center snuggled among dramatic hillside terraces. Right here, we then explore fully the Temple of the Sun as well as the Royal Baths and Fountains, properly immersing for ourselves deeply in such a shamanic energy experience which fully connects all of us with each of the four sacred elements – earth, water, air, and fire. Following along with the gentle flow of the river, we arrive directly at the Temple of the Condor, a place for transformation and spiritual connection. We take several moments for peaceful reflection and meditation, embracing the undergoing wisdom and energy within this sacred site.
Later that day, we head towards the Ollantaytambo rail terminal, where we get on a lovely train that meanders by the Urubamba River, transporting us via stunning scenery to the delightful town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). After checking into our hotel, the evening is yours to relax along with prepare for the incredible adventure to sacred Machu Picchu tomorrow.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Machu Picchu “The Crystal Condor”
Route: Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Ollantaytambo → Cusco
After breakfast, we set off onto an unforgettable adventure to Machu Picchu, a place of wonder, mystery, and of deep spiritual connection. Known as the Crystal Condor site, this ancient sanctuary is more than simply an architectural masterpiece. It is also a portal to the wisdom of the entire Incan civilization and a source of powerful energy that persistently encourages travelers from around the world.
Machu Picchu, being surrounded by three majestic peaks which form a natural energy triangle, offers a sacred space so that one may pause, reflect, and connect with something much greater than ourselves. As we walk along its ancient pathways, each one unfolds its own story, as well as its own importance, inviting us to step rather deeper into its ageless wisdom.
In this particularly powerful setting, we fully take part in such a heart-opening ceremony, deeply embracing the presence of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and all the universal energies that surround all of us. It is truly a moment in time of pure connection – one that lingers on in our very hearts for long after that we depart from here.
After midday, we get on the train from Aguas Calientes, going alongside the Urubamba River through stunning scenery as we head to the lovely town of Ollantaytambo, where we have our transfer to Cusco. Upon the arrival we get ready for the night, still holding the wonder of the day in our hearts.
Overnight in Cusco: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Exploring Chakan
Route: Cusco
Today, you’ll dive deep down into Andean cosmovision in Chakan. The day begins with a sacred ceremony that is honoring Pachamama, in which you’ll deeply connect with each one of the elements – earth, air, fire, and water. And then, you will connect with each one of the spirits from the land. Guided, as you will be, by masters of the Rainbow Lineage, you’ll discover just how the Andean people view the world as more of a linked living entity, making offerings to the Apus and aligning yourself with nature’s rhythms.
By the conclusion of the day, you’ll leave with a deep connection to the land along with its sacred energy.
Overnight in Cusco: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Route of the Sun to Puno
Route: Cusco → Andahuaylillas → Raqchi → Pucara → Puno
We’ll pick you up directly from your hotel in the early morning as well as then head off on a comfortable, fully-equipped bus for a scenic adventure right from Cusco to Puno, filled with truly magical sites and rich history. Along the way, we will surely visit the stunning Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas. Additionally, we will see the impressive Temple of Wiracocha without fail.
We’ll additionally pass through the majestic Raya Pass, with stunning views of Nevado Chimboya, and explore the fascinating Lítico Museum of Pucara. Our adventure then ends with your arrival in Puno, the gateway to the grand Lake Titicaca.
Overnight in Puno: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Uros and Amantaní Islands on Lake Titicaca
Route: Puno → Uros → Amantani → Puno
Wake up at dawn and delight in the sun before taking a boat over the calm waters of Lake Titicaca, sailing to the floating Uros Islands. These very floating islands, made completely of Totora reeds, are even home to each and every one of the Uros people, who, according to that particular legend, predate the sun and they once used their islands as a highly mobile defense system. Today, they greet company with kindness and tell of their old customs and existence.
Next, we adventure onward to Amantaní, quite known as the «Island of the Kantuta,» directly after the national flower that blooms right here. This circular island, abundant in ancient Inca and Tiwanaku ruins, features two sacred mountain peaks—Pachatata (Father Earth) and Pachamama (Mother Earth). The island has terraced hillsides that grow crops like quinoa and potatoes. The island also offers a peaceful retreat to connect with the land and the wisdom of the ancestors.
In the afternoon, we’ll return directly to your hotel within Puno, reflecting back on the very transformative experiences during the day.
Overnight in Puno: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Crossing Borders and Welcome to Bolivia!
Route: Puno → Copacabana → Moon Island → Sun Island → Copacabana → La Paz
After breakfast, take a breathtaking three-hour ride down the marvelous banks of Lake Titicaca, on your way to Copacabana. Proceed across the Peruvian-Bolivian border from and then go visit the charming village that is Copacabana, which is home to the iconic Church of the Virgin.
Next, have a private motorboat in order to explore the Temple of the Sun Virgins that is on Moon Island and also the Pilkokaina ruins located on Sun Island. After a short hike, enjoy a delicious lunch before returning by boat to Copacabana. Then you’ll transfer to La Paz for your overnight stay.
Overnight in La Paz: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Highlights of the
City La Paz
Route: La Paz
A city tour in La Paz starts right at the energetic Plaza Murillo, in which you’ll admire the truly grand Presidential Palace plus also the really historic La Paz Cathedral. Next, carefully wander throughout the Witches’ Market, a busy hub of Andean culture, in which you can explore various stalls filled with mystical herbs, colorful textiles, along with handmade crafts. That excursion guides people to the soaring altitudes of El Alto, presenting stunning wide-angle vistas of La Paz’s singular valley locale.
Finally, immerse yourself fully in the otherworldly beauty of Valle de la Luna, and that mesmerizing landscape of jagged rock formations will surely provide a peaceful escape from all of the city’s energy.
Overnight in La Paz: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Journey to Salar de Uyuni
Route: La Paz → Uyuni
Your adventure commences as you depart toward Uyuni, a tiny yet charming locale in southwest Bolivia. After each flight through the stunning Bolivian highlands, you’ll arrive in Uyuni where we will meet you and bring you to your hotel. As you travel, you will have an opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes.
Once in Uyuni, you’ll have the entire evening to relax, settle into your hotel and prepare for the exciting exploration ahead. The night sky over Uyuni is breathtaking and known quite well for its brilliance, so if you’re up for it, get warm clothes and prepare for amazing stargazing.
Overnight in Uyuni: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Explore Uyuni
Route: Uyuni → Colchani → Uyuni
Today is the day to completely immerse yourself in all of the beauty of the Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the entire world. Following breakfast, you will go to this salt flat, which extends as far as one can observe. If you visit during the rainy season, you’ll be treated to an almost magical sight. The salt flats transform into a massive mirror that reflects the sky, creating an illusion of endlessness.
Then you’ll stop at Incahuasi Island, a strange as well as stunning island covered in giant cacti that offers panoramic views across the salt flats. Afterward, head to Colchani Village, where you’ll get a firsthand look at how salt is harvested from the flats. In addition to this, you may even have the chance to buy multiple locally made salt products. As you further explore the Train Cemetery, a quirky and haunting spot just outside of Uyuni, you will then feel the eerie silence of old rusted trains, abandoned right in the middle of the desert.
The day is full with surreal, otherworldly experiences in that make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a dream. After a full day for exploring, you’ll return back to Uyuni for that night, reflecting on the surreal beauty which you’ve witnessed.
Overnight in Uyuni: 3*, 4* or 5* hotels.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Flight to La Paz and International Flight Home
Route: Uyuni → La Paz → Home
On your final day, after your breakfast, you’ll board a morning flight from Uyuni to La Paz, for your international flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of your time in Peru and Bolivia, the special ceremonies you had and landscapes you’ve explored. This marks the end of your Andean adventure.
Overnight: None.
Meals: Breakfast.
Inclusions
Included
- Tour Guide: English-Spanish and Quechua speaking guide.
- Private Transportation
- Hotel: 3* 4* 5* Category (Depending on your choice).
- Entrance Fees: All entrances for the various sites are included.
- Despacho Ceremony: Offering to Mother earth on Day 6.
- Oxygen Tank and First aid kit: Our vans are equipped with an Oxygen tank.
- Train Tickets: Round Trip Train Ticket. Ollantaytambo - Machupicchu and Viceversa.
- Meals: Meals are included as listed on our itinerary. (All our hotels include breakfast).
- Farewell Dinner: Last night in Uyuni to celebrate.
- Machu Picchu Ticket: Machu Picchu Entrance - Circuit 2 (according to the availability).
- Airport Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Pumadventures offers this complimentary service to all our travel family. Please share your flight details in advance.
not Included
- Meals not mentioned on the itinerary.
- Gratuities for Pumadventures team (Guides, Drivers).
- Souvenirs.
- International or domestic airfare.
- Extra water.
Add ons and extras
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65USD.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD.
- Vistadome Observatory: $80 USD one way – 150 USD Round Trip.
- Lunch and Dinner: $100 USD per day (1 main course and 1 non-alcoholic drink).
Packing List
- Original passport (it is compulsory to enter the Inca Trail and Machupicchu) * Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- An extra small backpack or small carry on to send to Aguas Calientes (larger suitcases are not allowed on the train)
- Thermal clothing: jackets, pants, hats, and gloves that are waterproof
- Clothes made with materials like linen or cotton which will allow air to circulate better than synthetic fabrics
- Water storage: 2-3 litre
- Camelbacks are encouraged.
- Shoes with good insulation or ones that cover your ankles
- Wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
- Comfortable shoes or sandals in case of waterlogged areas around the salt flats * Toiletries Sunscreen
- Water Waterproof jacket or poncho for the rainy season
- A fleece or jacket Warm jacket for the cold nights
- A blanket for extra warmth in case of cold nights, specially Puno and Bolivia. * Extra cash for meals, snacks and souvenirs
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent (15% – 30% deeds)
- Wool hat if cold season
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
- Any necessary personal medications
- Cameras, chargers, extra cables, power-bank
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tipsValuables
- Swimsuit for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional)
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