Classic Peru image
Save 15% off, code required, ends 2026-06-30
Operated by G Adventures

Classic Peru

From
CAD 2,932
Duration
12 days
Countries
Peru
Activity
active

The adventure

This compact tour of the archaeological highlights and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands has it all. Cruise Lake Titicaca and immerse yourself in rural life with a homestay in a small village. Wander the cobblestoned streets of Cusco before breaking a sweat hiking mountain passes along the Inca Trail on your way to Machu Picchu. Because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment, which means you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.

At a glance

Duration
12 days
Route
Lima → Cusco
Countries
Peru
Activity level
active
Style
Beach & Islands, Culture & History, Cycling, Food & Drink, Local Living & Homestays, Rail Journeys, Trekking & Hiking
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Classic Peru image

Day by day

Overlooking a small village in a Peruvian valley with a cloudy sky backdrop.
Your journey through

Peru

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time.
Arrive at any time.
Day 2Fly to Juliaca and transfer to PunoFly to Juliaca then take a short bus ride to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Titicaca is also the largest lake in the world above 2000m, and the views from its Islands are stunning.
Fly to Juliaca then take a short bus ride to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Titicaca is also the largest lake in the world above 2000m, and the views from its Islands are stunning.
Day 3Enjoy a guided tour of Lake Titicaca…Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on the Taquile Islands and opt to have lunch in a local restaurant with spectacular views. Afterwards, cruise to the another village (this can vary based on community availability) for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake. This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quechua and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village.
Head out by boat across Lake Titicaca. Visit the community on the Taquile Islands and opt to have lunch in a local restaurant with spectacular views. Afterwards, cruise to the another village (this can vary based on community availability) for an overnight homestay on the shores of the lake. This experience provides an opportunity to learn more about rural life in the Peruvian highlands and to participate in local traditions. Eat with the family, learn some Quechua and Spanish language skills, try on traditional costumes, and help out with daily chores around the village.
Day 4Visit the floating islands of Uros before returning…Leave the homestay families late morning and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away. Opt to pre-book the Lake Titicaca Kayaking on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Leave the homestay families late morning and visit the Uros Islands on the way back to Puno. A popular optional activity in Puno is a visit to the spectacular chullpas (funerary towers) of Sillustani, a pre-Inca archaeological site only a short drive away. Opt to pre-book the Lake Titicaca Kayaking on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Day 5Hop on the bus for a full day's drive to CuscoThe trip from Puno to Cusco takes the better part of the day, with stark, beautiful scenery en route as you travel through the high Altiplano region. Check out a bit of Cusco, find a spot for dinner or get prepared to head into the Sacred Valley.
View of brick buildings densely packed on a hillside, showcasing urban architecture.Cusco
The trip from Puno to Cusco takes the better part of the day, with stark, beautiful scenery en route as you travel through the high Altiplano region. Check out a bit of Cusco, find a spot for dinner or get prepared to head into the Sacred Valley.
Map showing Cusco
Day 6Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred ValleyTravel 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.
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.
Day 7Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where…
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.
Day 8Start early to climb the long steep path…
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.
Day 9Cross two more passes and ruins on today's trek
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).
Day 10The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn…Machu Picchu
Stunning aerial view of the historic Machu Picchu in the Andes mountains, showcasing its ancient architecture and lush surroundings.Machu Picchu
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.
Map showing Machu Picchu
Day 11Enjoy a free day to explore Cusco or relaxPre-book the Rainbow Mountain hike or the Cusco Cooking Class on the checkout page to include these optional activities on your tour. or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
View of brick buildings densely packed on a hillside, showcasing urban architecture.Cusco
Pre-book the Rainbow Mountain hike or the Cusco Cooking Class on the checkout page to include these optional activities on your tour. or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Map showing Cusco
Day 12Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.
Depart at any time.

Traveller reviews

My husband and I really enjoyed the tour as we were able to truly experience Peruvian culture during our homestay on Lake Titticaca. Further, the service we were provided on the Inca Trail was outstanding.
This was my first time that I travelled with a tour group so I was a bit apprehensive. I really enjoyed it! I liked sharing my experience with others and hearing about others' travel experiences.
Very enjoyable, mostly well-planned. Great guides, good hotels.

Discover Peru

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Breathtaking view of snow-capped Andes mountains under blue skies in Cusco, Peru.
Captivating and rugged mountain landscape under bright daylight, showcasing natural beauty.
A breathtaking aerial view of the sunset over mountains and valleys in Cusco, Peru.
Explore the breathtaking Andes mountains in Cusco, Peru with dramatic skies and rugged terrain.
Stunning mountain landscape in Pajchanta, Peru, showcasing rolling hills and clouds.

Upcoming departures

15% off South and Central America · ends 2026-06-30
DatesPrice / personAvailability
20 Jun 20261 Jul 2026CAD 3,127unknownBook my trip
27 Jun 20268 Jul 2026CAD 3,127unknownBook my trip
29 Jun 202610 Jul 2026CAD 2,943unknownBook my trip
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