Peru: Ancient Cities & The Andes

Day 1  Lima
Arrive at any time. Get to know your group tonight as you head out to one of the many bars and restaurants in the bohemian neighbourhood of Barranco.

Day 2  Lima to Nazca        
Catch a local bus and drive down the coast through the desert to Nazca.

Day 3  Nazca to Arequipa            
Free time to explore Nazca; Opt for a flight over the famous Nazca Lines or take a tour of the Nazca Desert Cemetery and Potter's Studio. Later enjoy a traditional "Pachamanca" dinner, before catching the overnight bus to Arequipa.

Day 4  Arequipa              
Welcome to Arequipa! Take the day to explore what is known as the 'white city.' If you're into history and architecture, visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, where you'll get a unique glimpse into a bygone way of life. For spicy food lovers, visiting one of the 'picanterías' is a must. Satisfy your craving with a variety of local regional foods: alpaca, shrimp, pork, lots of soups, and spicy sauces.

Day 5  Arequipa to Colca Canyon        
Enjoy a full-day tour of the spectacular Colca Valley and venture to the impressive Colca Canyon - one of the deepest canyons in the world - on an overnight excursion. With a little luck, you'll spot Andean condors soaring over the majestic Andes. Keep a lookout for other unusual animals! Give your body some much needed relaxation by taking a dip in the hot springs.

Day 6  Colca Canyon              
Get an early start–be on the look out for condors. Travel from Chivay town to a condor viewpoint to get a glimpse of these magnificent birds in the air. On the way back, stop in local villages, and see old terraces. Catch an overnight bus to Cusco.

Day 7  Cusco    
Free day in Cusco to explore. Choose to pre-book the Cusco Cooking Class. Opt to go mountain biking, whitewater rafting, or just relax in a café.

Day 8  Cusco to Ccaccaccollo            
Head into the Sacred Valley today to visit the G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op in the Ccaccaccollo community. Learn about weaving, and meet the adorable resident llamas. If you see a knitted item you like, buy it, a perfect keepsake from your journey. Get further immersed in the local life of the Ccaccaccollo community during an overnight homestay.

Day 9  Ccaccaccollo to Ollantaytambo  
Travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas. You can choose to take a Sacred Valley tour and visit the impressive Pisac ruins, the colourful artisan market (market days only), and the large ruin site of Ollantaytambo that lies adjacent to the town of the same name. Catch your breath at Ollantaytambo and prepare for the hike the next morning.

Day 10  Inca Trail    
Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where your trek begins. Hike through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons. You'll see several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata.

Day 11  Inca Trail        
Get an early start today to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, known as Dead Woman's Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with some much needed R&R.

Day 12  Inca Trail    
Cross two more passes and ruins along the way. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through cloud forest on the gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley.  At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (""forever young"") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

Day 13  Machu Picchu to Cusco        
The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Wake up around 03:30 and walk to the checkpoint. Catch the first views of the breath-taking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site. Catch the bus to Aguas Calientes before your train back to Cusco in the afternoon. Tonight, dance the night away at a popular night club.

Day 14  Cusco    
Depart at any time.