Back Roads & Highlands of Peru

There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

Travel the route of the locals and start the Andean adventure on the road from Lima to Huancayo in the central Andes.

The villages of Cochas Grande and Cochas Chico are two interesting day trips in the Mantaro Valley, some 12km (7mi) south of the city.

Travel to the picturesque colonial city of Huancavelica aboard el Tren Macho. Take in the Peruvian countryside passing by the window and enjoy the ride amongst the locals.

The altitude of Ayacucho, its colonial feel, and the local pre-Inca history make it one of the most fascinating cities in the Andes.

The city is known for a handicrafts district famous for silver, carvings and woven items. There are many beautiful colonial churches and mansions to visit as well. The surrounding area also offers a number of attractions, including the Huari Capital and Quinua and Vilcashuaman, considered the geographical centre of the Inca Empire.

The city is known for a handicrafts district famous for silver, carvings and woven items. There are many beautiful colonial churches and mansions to visit as well. The surrounding area also offers a number of attractions, including the Huari Capital and Quinua and Vilcashuaman, considered the geographical centre of the Inca Empire.

The focus of the day is the journey itself. You can't beat the scenery like this and there's no better way to get to know the country than to travel straight through some of the most remote regions. Arrive at Andahuaylas, set amidst a beautiful glacial valley. Agriculture is key to the lives of the locals here and the town has a good market.

Enjoy free time in Andahuaylas. Opt to visit to the Sondor archaeological site, the Pacucha Lagoon or the market.

The nearby Sacred Valley, museums, churches and cobblestoned streets steeped in history, all combine to create a terrific atmosphere.

The nearby Sacred Valley, museums, churches and cobblestoned streets steeped in history, all combine to create a terrific atmosphere. Opt to visit and hike the famed Rainbow Mountain, pre-book on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.

Travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting a G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op. Meet the women and learn about traditional weaving and dyeing. Opt to pick up some handmade souvenirs and textiles directly from the women who made them. Have lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant. Learn about the G Adventures for Good project and eat a delicious buffet-style lunch. Proceeds of this meal go directly back to the remote community.

Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins.

Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better 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 ample time to rest and relax.

Cross two more passes and ruins on today's trek. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a 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).

The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down for a guided tour of the ruins, before your train back towards Cusco.

Depart at any time.