La Paz to Lima: Andes & Alpacas - Bolivia

From the awe-inspiring archeological and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands to the Nazca Lines on Peru's enigmatic coast, this epic adventure explores the heart and soul of the Andes. Embrace Inca culture in Cusco, sail Lake Titicaca, and trek the Inca Trail to the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. Interact with locals from the region’s communities for an immersive experience that few get to know. With the services of a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), your accommodation and transport taken care of, this trip offers great value as it introduces the region’s main sights while providing plenty of flexibility.

Day 1 La Paz
Arrive at any time. Catch your breath before heading over to an English pub next to the hostel for a few cold ones with your fellow travellers. Get to know each other as you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Day 2 La Paz/Puno
Sit back, relax, and soak in the impressive views as you travel by bus through the Altiplano and cross the border into Peru. Arrive at Puno on the shores of stunning Lake Titicaca.

Day 3 Puno/Lake Titicaca
This morning, you will board a boat on Lake Titicaca and head to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant. Shop in the afternoon at the local weaving cooperatives. Later, cruise to another village for an overnight homestay to live like a local on the shores of the lake. Learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and create unforgettable memories with the family and fellow travellers.

Day 4 Lake Titicaca/Puno
Say goodbye to your homestay family and stop at the Uros Islands on your way back to Puno. If you want, you can check out the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site. Or kayak on Lake Titicaca.

Day 5 Puno/Cusco
Chill out on the bus as you cruise through the high, scenic Altiplano region. Settle in for the night and get some rest — there's lots to see and do in Cusco tomorrow.

Day 6 Cusco
Explore the city on your own today or choose from a variety of activities that will help you discover the magic of Cusco. You can go horseback riding or whitewater rafting, or choose to take a half-day tour of the city. Or, pre-book the Cusco cooking class if you want to learn to prepare local specialties!

Day 7 Cusco/Ollantaytambo
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. Stop and sample some craft beer at a brewery on your way to Ollantaytambo.

Day 8 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 9 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 10 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 11 Machu Picchu/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 breathtaking 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 12 Cusco
Today is another free day to explore all that Cusco has to offer. Go horseback riding, mountain biking, or whitewater rafting. Too wiped out from the trek? Take it easy with a visit to the Inka Museum.

Day 13 Cusco/Arequipa
Do as much or as little as you want today but enjoy it — it's your last day in Cusco. Get cozy on a bus for the night as you head to Arequipa.

Day 14 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 15 Arequipa/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 the hot springs.

Day 16 Colca Canyon/Arequipa
Get an early start to 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. Later, head out for a drink in the Calle Zela area – restaurant, bar, or club, there's something for everyone!

Day 17 Arequipa/Nazca
Discover Arequipa today with the option to take a city tour, or visit the Santa Catalina Monastery if you haven't already. Later, board an overnight bus to catch up on some sleep en route to your next destination.

Day 18 Nazca
Wake up in Nazca — famous for one of the world's greatest archaeological mysteries, the Nazca Lines. Choose to take a flight for unparalleled views, or climb the viewing tower to get a glimpse if that's more your style. In the evening, enjoy a Pachamanca-style dinner with your fellow travellers.

Day 19 Nazca/Huacachina
Travel further north to the oasis of Huacachina, stop at a Pisco winery on the way. Sandboard on the dunes around the oasis for an unforgettable sunset.

Day 20 Huacachina/Lima
Travel back to Lima to enjoy your last night as a group. Celebrate and reminisce on your adventures together with some ceviche and a pisco sour.

Day 21 Lima
Depart at any time.