From: £3,327
From: $4,430
On arrival at Cusco Airport (CUZ), we have a short transfer to our hotel (3 star).
Go slowly, as we start acclimatising to the rarefied air of this beautiful city (3,326m/10,912ft).
In the afternoon, we take a short walking tour of the city and take some time to prepare our bikes ready for the riding ahead.
Leaving Cusco early we travel by vehicle to the outskirts of Cusco and the Inca site of Tambo Machay. After putting on gloves and helmets we head off to explore the area.
The trails are generally downhill, giving time to acclimatise as we head back towards Cusco city, enjoying superb views over the valley and the city.
Your expert guide and mechanic will assess your group’s ability and then offer a variety of riding options, from easy, smooth road to harder single tracks and Inca trails.
Lunch in Cusco and free afternoon.
For those who want some more biking action, we can head back out to just outside the small village of Huayllacochca from where there are dozens of suburb routes back to Cusco.
After breakfast we bike out of Cusco on a good tarmac road, downhill to Huambutio and along a beautiful rarely used road beside the Rio Urubamba.
With the support vehicle close at hand we can focus on taking in the great scenery. We stop for a picnic before heading on for today’s goal, the town of Pisac.
We look to arrive in time for its artisan market, perfect for picking up souvenirs or photographing a typical Andean market.
We stay the night in the basic Hotel Pisac. Situated on the central plaza it is a clean, charming and comfortable place to stay.
Distance: 34 miles/54kms approx.
From Pisac, we drive up into barren Altiplano at 4,100m/13,451ft for a great descent to the small village of Paucartambo with spectacular views of the Andes.
There are a few optional single tracks available en-route. We get back on the bus for the drive to the edge of the Manu National Park and our campsite at Tres Cruces with spectacular views of the Amazon jungle.
Distance: 30 miles/45kms approx.
Rising early and weather permitting, we enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the rainforest. At certain times of the year, the refracting sun rays bounce off the jungle below, creating a truly amazing spectacle.
Back on the bikes, we start with the fun 16km ride along the final ridge of the Andes, before we drop off the edge of the Amazon basin for the descent into the amazing cloud forest. We cycle downhill all day, with spectacular jungle views, hopefully glimpsing rare wildlife en route.
Andean bears, pumas, various species of monkeys and hundreds of birds have all been sighted on this day.
Distance: 40 miles/64kms approx.
Continuing downhill, we cycle through verdant rainforest passing various small villages, where we can see how settlers try to eke out a living.
We stop for cold drinks and to cool off in pristine jungle streams, and continue to Atalaya where board a motorised canoe for a short ride to our Amazon jungle lodge.
What a spot, tranquility itself.
Bird-watching in style, from the balcony of this former tea house, with a chilled beer in hand.
Distance: 25 miles/40kms approx.
A great opportunity to explore the rainforest trails, hopefully glimpsing some of the wildlife.
Or relax at the lodge, catch up on a good book and enjoy the sounds from the jungle.
Today we have a boat trip back to Atalaya before we retrace our journey to Cusco, now by vehicle.
We get our kit sorted then head out to enjoy the Cuzco nightlife. Hotel.
Rest up and get ready for the Inca Trail tomorrow, or choose something more active such as rafting or more biking – our reps will be glad to help.
Today we start our journey along the Inca Trail. We drive into the Sacred valley of the Incas, enjoying the views from the vehicle.
At the end of the road (Km88) we meet the support team of porters for lunch then begin the Inca trail.
The first section is ideal for acclimatisation purposes as we hike along the sacred Urubamba river. We camp the night at Llactapata (2,288m/7,506ft) beside some spectacular ruins.
We believe in camping and trekking in style, whilst walking all you need to carry is your daypack.
Our support team of traditional porters, carry all camping equipment and perform all camp chores. All food is prepared by the cook.
Distance: 11.1km/6.9 miles
Highest point: 2,912m/9,554ft
Starting altitude: 2,753m/9,032ft
Finishing altitude: 2,885m/9,466ft
Height gained: 398m/1,306ft
Height lost: 302m/991ft
We trek up the Cusichaca valley to the small hamlet of Huallyabamba, the last inhabited place on the trail.
The path continues on up past humming birds and stunted cloud forest.
Our camp is the beautiful grassy area at Llulluchupampa (3,680m/12,075ft). This has outstanding views down the valley.
Distance: 12.3km/7.7 miles
Highest point: 4,222m/13,852ft
Starting altitude: 2,885m/9,466ft
Finishing altitude: 3,603m/11,821ft
Height gained: 1,361m/4,465ft
Height lost: 613m/2,011ft
Possibly the hardest day of the trek, we rise early and head to the highest point of the trail – the impressive Warmiwanusca (Dead woman’s pass 4,200m/13,780ft).
We then descend into the Pacasmayo valley and then climb again passing the Inca ruins Rucuracay.
Our second pass of the day (3,998m/13,117ft) gives us spectacular views of the Vilcabamba range. Walking on well-preserved Inca pathway we pass Sayacmarca ruins with plenty of time for an in depth tour and explanation.
We continue along the ridge, passing through tunnels and fantastic views and a slight ascent brings us to Phuyupatamarca ruins (3,650m/11,975ft) where we camp.
Distance: 12.9km/8 miles
Highest point: 3,893m/12,772ft
Starting altitude: 3,603m/11,821ft
Finishing altitude: 2,732m/8,962ft
Height gained: 1,185m/3,888ft
Height lost: 1,345m/4,413ft
After an early morning chance to catch the sunrise on the surrounding snow capped mountain, we say a farewell to our porters with a traditional song and dance.
Our final days hiking brings us down into the cloud forest along the Inca stairway to Winay-winay (2,600m/8,530ft), another outstanding ruin full of orchids and swallows. we then contour through cloud forest to Inti Punku, the gateway of the Sun, for our first glimpse of the amazing Machu Picchu.
After treasuring the moment we pass through to the ruins themselves.
We transfer to our hotel in the colourful town of Aguas Calientes and celebrate our return to civilisation.
Distance: 7.9km/4.9 miles
Highest point: 2,739m/8,988ft
Starting altitude: 2,732m/8,962ft
Finishing altitude: 2,452m/8,046ft
Height gained: 311m/1,020ft
Height lost: 377m/1,237ft
First thing in the morning we return to Machu Picchu and have it virtually all to ourselves for a full guided tour.
We can walk out to the Inca bridge or else just wander through the ruins soaking up the amazing atmosphere. After a late lunch in Aguas Calientes we board the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo.
Here our waiting bus takes us back to our Cusco hotel in time to explore Cusco’s excellent nightlife.
We transfer to Cusco airport .
Note: In order to protect this fabulous piece of history a permit is required to trek the Inca trail. This permit is organised by us and included in the standard holiday cost. These permits often sell out months in advance and so if Inca trail permits are no longer available we have devised a fantastic alternative trek which moves away from the beaten track and explores parts of the Andes not visited by many tourists. This trek operates according to demand and can not always be guaranteed and so please contact us if you would like to discuss this option further.
Inca Trail Alternative: The spectacular Lares valley lies just beyond the Sacred Valley of the Incas bringing you back to an ancient Andean life where hardy locals herd llamas and plant potatoes as they have for centuries amidst beautiful Andean surroundings. Their incredibly bright, high-quality woven red clothes are startlingly against the mountain back ground.
The trek is an interesting mixture of spectacular mountain scenery, glacial lakes, waterfalls, high plains, hot springs and charming Andean villages. The views of the snow topped peaks of Veronica, Chicon, Pitusiray and Sawasiray keep us company most of the way. It also boasts a chance to visit the lovely hot-springs at Lares village and a chance to barter for local weavings along the route. The final location of the Paucarcancha ruins and the superb walk on an original Inca trail along massive, remarkably well- preserved Inca terraces to the back entrance of Ollantaytambo completes this satisfying trek. From here we catch the train to Machu Picchu and meet up with the rest of our group for a full day exploring this fascinating and mysterious site before returning to Cusco
We use 2-3* hotels when in towns and cities.
We also stay in a converted tea hacienda in the jungle. This is now a comfortable lodge which makes the perfect base to explore the area.
On several nights we sleep in tents. Camp will be set up for you and as well as your tent we will also have separate tents for our cook, dining and even a toilet.
For the leisure cyclist with a good level of physical fitness.
May include some steeper, cheeky climbs and possibly sections of varying terrain (eg. forest tracks, gravel paths etc).
Distances generally between 20-45 miles / 32-72 kms per day.
Peru has become world famous for its food and rightly so. The incredibly varied landscape from coast, through desert, high mountains and tropical jungle provides a vast range of climates and ecosystems to provide a vast larder of fresh ingredients.
Almost all dietary requirements can be catered for – please check with us in advance.
Coffee, chocolate, avocados, limes, mangos all grow in the moist tropical air close to Machu Picchu. More than 4,000 varieties of potatoes and more than 50 varieties of corn grow in the Andes mountains and valleys.
Our camp cooks take the best ingredients and keep you fed with such delights as Aji de Gallina, Fresh trout stuffed with Peruvian prawns, Palta a la Reina and flambéed mangos with chocolate brownie. One thing is sure. Even the most ravenous won’t go hungry.
Picnic lunches are tasty and varied affairs and may include crusty ciabatta filled with hot chicken and chargrilled vegetables, hot beef sandwiches with homemade mayonnaise and local salads.
Trail snacks are provided and you can expect some delicious healthy treats such mango slices, banana chips and much more. Purified water is provided so you are able to regularly able to refill your bottles / hydration packs.
Based in Cuzco our local team live on the doorstep of some of the most dramatic riding in the world and they know how to make the most of it. Luckily for us they enjoy sharing the local routes with visitors almost as much as riding them themselves.
Our Inca Trail guides have years of experience on this world famous trail. They know all the best campsites and how to time everything so that you pretty much have the trail to yourselves. You will not only learn about the amazing history of the Incas and Machu Picchu, but also gain an insight into modern day Peru, its people, politics, customs, flora and fauna.
An unforgettable cultural journey in Peru, combining authentic experiences with exceptional food and hospitality.
An unforgettable adventure through Peru and the Galapagos, with outstanding guides, superb organisation, delicious food, and incredible wildlife encounters that made for a truly magical holiday.
We start in the high and spectacular Andes around the Inca capital Cusco. From here, the biking is mainly with miles of fun trails to suit most riders.
Whilst not technically challenging, we ride on dirt roads and tracks through some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes.
In the Sacred Valley we cycle past ancient Inca ruins and visit the artisan market of Pisac, before climbing high into the Andes to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Amazon.
Next it’s downhill through pristine cloud forest, deep into the jungle from where we explore the surrounding trails in search of rare wildlife.
From: $5807 per person
Duration
21 days
From: $1890 per person
Duration
7 days
From: $3062 per person
Duration
9 days
Peru is made up of 3 distinct geographical areas: the coast, the mountains and the jungle.
The costa or coastal region is a narrow ribbon of desert 2,250 km long, crossed by fertile river valleys flowing from the Andes. It takes up 11% of the country and holds more than 40% of the population.
The cold Humboldt current gives rise to a blanket of mist – the garua – which hangs above coastal cities like the capital Lima from May to November.
Heading east, you’re soon climbing above the garua and into the Andes. The sierra, or mountainous region, covers some 25% of Peru’s territory and contains 50% of the population. The sierra inhabitants are mainly Indigenous or Mestizo, and many still speak Quechua or Aymara.
The sierra contains dozens of 6,000-metre snow peaks and volcanoes, including Huascaran (6,768m) the highest mountain in the tropics. The deep valley basins contain most of the towns and arable land; the terracing and canal systems of the Incas and pre-Incas are often still used today.
The eastern Andes are heavily forested up to 3,350m and sweep down into the Amazon Basin.
Peru’s selva or jungle makes up almost two thirds of the country’s area, but holds only about 6% of the population: the only towns with significant populations are Iquitos and Pucallpa.
Peru is the perfect holiday destination for adventure travellers that want an amazing variety of activity, geography and cultural travel experiences.
The breadth of travel experiences in Peru is breathtaking – from trekking in the Andes to Machu Picchu to the tropical jungle of the Amazon, and plenty in between.
The people of Peru make it a special destination too, with its colourful and traditional street life and friendly locals.
Good kit is vital for every trip.
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When planning for the varied climatic conditions you will encounter across Peru, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system.
The sun is very strong throughout the country, so good sun cream, a hat and sunglasses are vital.
It can also get very cold at night time especially in the mountains. Jumpers, fleeces and warms hats – which you can buy there – are also essential.
Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.
Below is a more detailed guide.
You can also read about the weather of Peru in our blog.
You can also read about the weather of Peru in our blog.
Peru is located in the southern tropics (latitudes 0º to 18º), but climate varies significantly according to season, altitude and region.
From May to October, Lima is often overcast, but with minimal precipitation. There are sunny spells, and it’s a fresh to pleasant 13-20ºC.
At the same time, inland areas and the north coast mid to high 20’s ºC.
November to April is generally warm and sunny and Lima enjoys warm temperature of 19-25ºC, with the coast averaging 22-30ºC.
Climate depends largely on altitude. As a rule of thumb, below 2,000m climate is mild and above 2,000m warm clothing is required for evenings, nights and early mornings.
The Andean sun is very strong.
Cusco (3,300m): Average max/min temps: 22ºC /2ºC. Average 3 or 4 wet days per month.
Arequipa (2,380m): Average max/min temps: 26ºC /9ºC. Sunny more than 340 days/year with minimal precipitation.
On highland treks: Conditions are generally dry. However, at this time of year, expect a range of conditions within a single day: cold/freezing nights at camps above 4,000m, where pre-dawn temperatures can be -5ºC; warm, spring-like mornings and afternoons; and cold evenings.
Note that mountain weather can be fickle and localised, and that precipitation is not unknown in the dry season. Expect temperatures to swing between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground and with altitude gain and loss. A quick-setting sun means temperatures drop fast.
In the cloud forest, e.g. around Machu Picchu, daytime conditions are generally warm or hot, and evenings cool.
Cusco: Average max/min temps: 23ºC /6ºC. Average 13 wet days per month.
Arequipa: Average max/min temps: 25ºC /14ºC.
On highland treks: Wetter conditions, with cooler days and milder nights than dry season. Jan-Mar usually the wettest months.
Year-round, weather conditions are hot and humid and there is always the risk of rain.
There is a ‘dry season’ in Tambopata and Manu between May and October. The average daytime high temperature is between 25°C and 34°C and the average nighttime low is between 16°C and 22°C. Heavy downpours typically occur every few days.
Around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Manu and Tambopata and 1,400 mm in Iquitos – occurs in the wet season Nov-April.
On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – ‘friajes’ – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9°C. (Friajes usually last between 1 and 3 days).
An unforgettable cultural journey in Peru, combining authentic experiences with exceptional food and hospitality.
An unforgettable adventure through Peru and the Galapagos, with outstanding guides, superb organisation, delicious food, and incredible wildlife encounters that made for a truly magical holiday.
