Andean Flamingo: Andes laid bare
17 days from £5,636
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Those passengers arriving on an international flight will be met at the airport by the Journey Latin America tour leader or a local representative. The drive to the hotel encapsulates the invigorating chaos of a modern Latin American capital city.
Lima, the City of Kings, was once the capital of Spanish America, and the vestiges of its glorious past can still be seen in the faded grandeur of the colonial churches and traditional wooden balconies in the city centre. The explosive growth of the last 50 years, so typical of capital cities in the developing world, has transformed Lima into a dynamic and chaotic low-rise city of over 10 million people. In crowded streets, throngs of traffic race out towards Miraflores, a modern middle-class suburb on the coast, where your hotel is located.
The converted turn-of-the-century Antigua Miraflores mansion has an ideal location in the fashionable and upmarket Miraflores district, surrounded by cafés, parks, restaurants and shops. Its exterior suggests a classic, historic property, yet inside it brims with personality and colour.
Almost like an old curiosity shop of items from Lima’s past and present, the main areas of the hotel are adorned with a varied array of art, antique furniture and quirky bric-a-brac.
Guestrooms vary in quality, but are spacious with hand-crafted wooden furniture. Many face the pretty inner courtyards, keeping street noise to a minimum. There is also a small bar, lounge and restaurant with stained glass panels and a chequerboard floor.
Fly to Cusco (1 hour). The name Cusco derives from the Quechua word for navel, indicating its location at the centre of the Inca Empire; one that reached its peak as Columbus prepared to sail across the Atlantic. Its many impressive original Inca walls display extraordinary craftsmanship, and the squares are dotted with ornate colonial churches. It’s a vibrant, lively city, where shoeshine boys and postcard sellers jostle for your attention on cobbled streets lined with handicraft shops and cafés. In the evening, the town squares fill with people flocking to the many restaurants (both upmarket and sophisticated cuisine and local delicacies are on offer), bars and clubs.
This most attractive, converted colonial house belongs to a chain of locally-run, Peruvian-owned hotels the aim of which is to provide friendly and comfortable accommodation with the emphasis on Peruvian culture and traditions.
It is well positioned in the colonial heart of the city, two blocks from the majestic main square. The 75 spacious rooms – situated on two floors – overlook one of three galleried courtyards, each of which has a central stone fountain. Décor in the guest rooms is simple,contemporary and unobtrusive with whitewashed walls and subdued lighting. In-room facilities include cable TV, free Wifi and private bathroom.
The ground floor has a lobby bar, cosy lounge with log fire, terrace and a good restaurant. Adding to the historical ambiance the public areas are decorated with paintings with a religious theme by Peruvian artists.
Today, head out from Cusco over the high plains and descend to explore the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas. Once the bread-basket of the Inca Empire, it was heavily populated in imperial times and scores of archaeological sites remain, where well-preserved ruins bear witness to the highly developed society that the Incas created. The drive passes through or close to several of the villages and temple fortresses that pepper the valley.
The Pisac complex, set high above and visible from the eponymous colonial village you will visit, is built on terraces carved into the steep hillsides. The engineering and preservation are unrivalled. From the flat valley floor this intricate hillside rises up like a green staircase to the heavens.
Continue along this picturesque, patchwork valley to the temple of Ollantaytambo. The snow-frosted Andean cordillera forms a stunning backdrop. Ollantaytambo, sitting strategically at the gateway to the Amazon basin, was never captured by the Spanish conquistadors, but the inhabitants decided that the settlement was too vulnerable and would eventually fail, and so they abandoned it. The fortress, the colonial grid plan and the Inca foundations are still intact and there are wonderful views down over the sloping hillsides and into the fertile valley. You spend the night in the tranquil valley.
This is a modern hotel, but its traditional style blends in with that of the villages and farmhouses of the region. Terracotta walls and tiled roofs give a colonial look to the four buildings housing its cosy guestrooms, all set within attractive gardens with beautiful views of the mountains fringing the Sacred Valley.
Polished eucalyptus floors and beams enhance the hotel’s friendly atmosphere while a welcoming open fire makes the lounge a particularly cosy place to relax. Service is welcoming and there is also a pleasant restaurant, TV room and bar.
Hotel Pakaritampu is conveniently situated a couple of minutes’ walk from the railway station in Ollantaytambo, the point of departure for the scenic railway journey to Machu Picchu. Ollantaytambo is well worth a visit in itself: it’s a rural village whose history is manifested in the Inca walls forming the base of colonial houses, the exposed water channels that run along its cobbled lanes, and a massive Inca fortress perched on the gateway from the Andes to the jungle.
Set off by rail to Machu Picchu (2½ hours). As the Urubamba river enters its narrow gorge between thickly-forested granite hills, there is room only for a single track, which hugs the right bank and passes through hamlets that are no more than a collection of shacks beside the railway. Arrive in the small, sub-tropical spa village of Machu Picchu, where you leave your bags at the hotel and board a bus for a precipitous journey up a sinuous road to the Inca site of Machu Picchu and take a guided tour.
The American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered the site in 1911, by which time it was completely buried beneath tropical cloud forest. It soon became clear to excavators that the conquistadors had never found the city, and for many years it was mistaken for the legendary last refuge of the Incas, Vilcabamba.
Fancy hiking some of the Inca Trail without interrupting your tour? We can organise for you to walk the mini Inca Trail on this day, but still, have a guided tour of the ruins and stay with the group in the evening. Please ask us for more details.
Taking its inspiration from the template of minimalist boutique properties, El Mapi is uncompromisingly contemporary in style, eschewing the colourful textiles and Inca motifs typical of most Peruvian accommodation. Instead, the predominant colour is white and natural light filters in through panoramic windows.
Guestrooms are comfortable, spacious and well-equipped, with quality linens and bathrobes. The hotel also has a gift shop, a smart café serving organic food and a bar offering a selection of cocktails.
El MaPi is owned by the prestigious Peruvian luxury hotel group Inkaterra, and is a flagship of its new affordable range of properties. These hotels are more accessible to those on a modest budget but still offer the high standards and unique ambience which are the cornerstones of the Inkaterra portfolio.
Inkaterra Hotels have Climate Positive certification with initiatives including reforestation of native trees, conservation of spectacled bears, energy efficiency and work with local communities. The group also funds an Amazon Research Station in Peru, staffed by scientists and volunteers.
You have the optional opportunity to revisit the ruins, rail schedules permitting. There is also the chance for the more challenging hike to Huayna Picchu, the conical peak which juts out behind the ruins for wonderful views over the site. There’s also the option of the slightly easier climb of Machu Picchu Mountain. If you think you’d like to re-visit the site or do one of the climbs please enquire with the office, as spaces are limited and it’s necessary to pre-book.
You may prefer to relax and wander the narrow vehicle-free streets of Machu Picchu village, lined with souvenir shops and cafés. You return to Cusco on the afternoon train, arriving in the late afternoon.
This most attractive, converted colonial house belongs to a chain of locally-run, Peruvian-owned hotels the aim of which is to provide friendly and comfortable accommodation with the emphasis on Peruvian culture and traditions.
It is well positioned in the colonial heart of the city, two blocks from the majestic main square. The 75 spacious rooms – situated on two floors – overlook one of three galleried courtyards, each of which has a central stone fountain. Décor in the guest rooms is simple,contemporary and unobtrusive with whitewashed walls and subdued lighting. In-room facilities include cable TV, free Wifi and private bathroom.
The ground floor has a lobby bar, cosy lounge with log fire, terrace and a good restaurant. Adding to the historical ambiance the public areas are decorated with paintings with a religious theme by Peruvian artists.
A guided tour of Cusco, which includes a visit to several nearby Inca ruins. You visit Q’oricancha, once the principal Inca Sun Temple, with extraordinarily intricate stonework, and then explore the colossal zigzag walls of Sacsayhuamán, brooding on a hillside above Cusco. In 1536 a desperate and defining 3 day battle was fought between the Spaniards and the Incas around this fortress/temple; the first conquistadors to see it were overawed, and centuries later it is still an extraordinary and imposing sight.
This most attractive, converted colonial house belongs to a chain of locally-run, Peruvian-owned hotels the aim of which is to provide friendly and comfortable accommodation with the emphasis on Peruvian culture and traditions.
It is well positioned in the colonial heart of the city, two blocks from the majestic main square. The 75 spacious rooms – situated on two floors – overlook one of three galleried courtyards, each of which has a central stone fountain. Décor in the guest rooms is simple,contemporary and unobtrusive with whitewashed walls and subdued lighting. In-room facilities include cable TV, free Wifi and private bathroom.
The ground floor has a lobby bar, cosy lounge with log fire, terrace and a good restaurant. Adding to the historical ambiance the public areas are decorated with paintings with a religious theme by Peruvian artists.
The memorable drive from Cusco to Puno (7 hours – with comfort breaks at places of interest and photo opportunities) follows the narrow Huatanay Valley south through an intensively farmed arable landscape. Ancient villages, small farmsteads and market towns line the river banks as the road climbs steadily to the high pass at La Raya (4,300 metres), after which point the scenery changes dramatically as you cross the altiplano, a vast, windswept plain, punctuated by occasional market towns, where bowler-hatted women tend herds of llamas and alpacas.
Puno is situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca and the town has a huge market and one of the largest universities in Peru. Exquisite Lake Titicaca sits high in the Andes (at 3,805 metres, the highest navigable lake in the world) on the Peruvian-Bolivian border, and is the focal point for subsistence farmers in the region who fish its dazzling sapphire waters and plant crops along the fertile shores.
The modern, two-storey Posada del Inca Puno hotel has a lovely rural location on the shores of Lake Titicaca, 5km from the centre of busy Puno. Room décor reflects the earthy shades of the surrounding Andean landscape, lending the place a warm and homely feel.
There is a restaurant, a bar featuring Inca and Andean motifs and a crackling open fire, and a small terrace area where you can eat with a view of the garden and lake. The hotel has a private jetty where the historic Yavari steamship has been moored.
Set off along the lakeshore towards the Bolivian border. The still waters almost lap the road, and wader birds may be seen negotiating the reeds. Copacabana is a pretty little town impressively located between two grand hills on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Its beach gave the name to the better known one in Rio. Excursion by boat to the nearby Sun Island (Isla del Sol). Sun Island was an important pilgrimage destination even before the arrival of the Incas; originally called Titicaca, it gave the lake its name. Terraced slopes provide sustenance for its small farming communities. From one of the walking trails here you can squint across the sparkling lake to the ice-jacketed peaks of the Cordillera Real beyond. Return to Copacabana for the night.
The stylish Rosario del Lago is a small and charming hotel with a matchless location on the shores of Lake Titicaca, just a few minutes’ walk from Copacabana’s central square.
The 3-storey ochre building was built in a colonial style complete with arches and towers, and has only 21 rooms, each bright and fresh with furnishings inspired by the local area. Many have superb views over the lake, as does the restaurant, which specialises in fresh fish dishes and international cuisine. When weather conditions are appropriate, a grill operates on the sun terrace.
Travel by road across the bleak altiplano with views over the snow-tipped, spidery peaks of the Cordillera Real before it makes a spectacular descent into La Paz. At over 3,500m this is the highest capital city in the world. You arrive through the highland suburb of El Alto, which has grown so rapidly with an influx of rural migrants in search of work, that it is now a huge city in its own right. Soon after, you find yourself on the rim of a vast canyon and the city of La Paz spreads out before you, a glittering mosaic of tin, slate and tile roofs, interspersed with a line of skyscrapers that march down the valley. And beyond, keeping an eye on it all, is the colossal bulk of Mount Illimani.
This busy city has a 60% indigenous population; women dress in voluminous multicoloured skirts and bowler hats and have centre partings, as decreed by the Spanish monarch 3 centuries ago. Your 2 full days in the city give you plenty of opportunity to explore the colonial centre around Plaza Murillo, to stroll through the steep narrow streets, and around the many open and covered markets; it’s the street life here, the sounds and smells, that make it so fascinating. You are orientated in the compact city centre by a walking tour.
There is an optional excursion to the ruins of Tiwanaku, about which little is known. Travel 2 hours from of La Paz across the bleak, tawny earth of the altiplano, past glimmering lakes and herds of haughty alpacas. These pre-Columbian ruins are considered among the most important on the continent, and the massive gateways and imposing walls are redolent of bygone glory. It is believed that the inhabitants here were more advanced than the Incas in pottery, mathematics, art and astronomy. Explore a new museum on the site which houses more than 100 artefacts and provides a fascinating insight into the history of the ruins.
Early start to fly south from La Paz to Uyuni (45 minutes), a small and unremarkable settlement which cowers on a wind ravaged and remote plateau; gateway to a starkly intense area of outstanding natural beauty. After a visit to the ‘train cemetery’ on the outskirts of town it is straight onto the salt flats for the next 3 days of your journey. The salar is a dizzying sight. The surface is utterly featureless, smooth, and composed of nothing but pure, dazzling white salt. After rain a thin layer of water covers the surface, turning the salt flats into a huge mirror reflecting an inverted sky. In the centre lies the Isla del Pescado, a small island covered in giant cacti, where you stop to stretch your legs and soak up the view.
The next 2 days are spent travelling by 4WD on this extraordinary, other-worldly journey.
Continue to travel over vast Salar until arriving onto the slowly emerging high altitude desert overlooked by imposing volcanoes. You’ll explore the stunning rock formations, vast plains and remote lagoons populated by wild Vicunas and flamingos. Spend the night next to one of the lagoons in the midst of the remote desert. Make sure you take time to take in the nights sky uninterrupted by light pollution.
The drive continues on unpaved tracks across a lofty and bitterly cold plateau. The pale ochre beauty of the ashen hills and moonlike rock formations is suddenly broken by the opalescent colours of remote lagunas Verde and Colorado. As you swoop down into the Atacama Desert you see a distant patch of green, the oasis of San Pedro.
Cumbres San Pedro is a relatively large and modern property, designed to blend in with the adobe brick character of San Pedro de Atacama. This Chilean property is low rise with appropriate use of earthy tones, natural stone and wood, offset by brightly coloured textiles. The wide-ranging guest rooms are impressively spacious, simply but attractively presented with terraces and the novelty of an alfresco shower.
There’s also a restaurant and spa, while outside you’ll find attractive grounds with three swimming pools and two hot tubs. The hotel is a 20-minute walk (just over 1km) from the centre of San Pedro de Atacama.
San Pedro is a timeless adobe town with a laid back atmosphere. Its dusty streets are lined with bars, cafés and tour operators offering various kinds of excursions into the surrounding desert.
Should you choose to take the morning optional excursion to El Tatio Geysers, be prepared for a very early start. But it’s well worth it. You arrive on the pitted, craggy geyser field just before dawn, and as the sun rises and warms the earth, hot steam projects dramatically out of the crater into the freezing morning air, creating a wall of mist through which you can make out dark silhouettes and the penetrating sunlight. Note that a rapid ascent to an altitude of 4,500m makes this excursion unsuitable for some.
Alternatively you may want to walk to Pukará de Quitor (3 km). This old Inca fortress has superb views of the mountains and volcanoes bordering Bolivia and Argentina.
On the included excursion to the Moon Valley you arrive late afternoon to explore shady gorges and dramatic canyons formed over centuries by the erosion of salt mountains. Just before dusk, climb to the ridge of a vast golden sand dune to see the landscape lit up in different shades of pink, crimson and mandarin cast by the setting sun.
Cumbres San Pedro is a relatively large and modern property, designed to blend in with the adobe brick character of San Pedro de Atacama. This Chilean property is low rise with appropriate use of earthy tones, natural stone and wood, offset by brightly coloured textiles. The wide-ranging guest rooms are impressively spacious, simply but attractively presented with terraces and the novelty of an alfresco shower.
There’s also a restaurant and spa, while outside you’ll find attractive grounds with three swimming pools and two hot tubs. The hotel is a 20-minute walk (just over 1km) from the centre of San Pedro de Atacama.
A transfer takes you to nearby Calama (90 minutes) for the 2 hour flight to Santiago. Set in a broad valley between the high Andes and a smaller coastal range, Chile’s capital has a distinctly Mediterranean feel.
In the afternoon your guided city tour takes you to all the major sites of this fascinating city concentrating on Santiago’s bustling historic centre, which in recent years has taken on a new lease of life. Awakening from years of neglect, the traditional residential neighbourhood of Lastarria is a delight to explore, replete with shops, arty cafés and characterful hotels. Nearby, leafy Parque Forestal was inaugurated in the early twentieth century to celebrate the first 100 years of the republic. It is just a few blocks from the beating heart of old Santiago, the Plaza de Armas, the capital’s main square which is graced by elegant Chilean wine palms with their characteristic bottle-shaped trunks. Grouped around the plaza are Santiago’s Cathedral, the main post office, the National Historic Museum and the Municipalidad de Santiago (city hall). From here, if time, visit San Cristóbal Hill by riding the cable car to the top. On clear days there are spectacular panoramic views across the city towards the Andes.
The museum and house of Chilean poet laureate Pablo Neruda is close by, and its unusual interior with an eclectic collection of paintings and bric-a-brac is well worth a visit. Time permitting, you may wish to visit one of the vineyards close to Santiago, to sample some famous Chilean wine.
Hotel Cumbres Lastarria is a striking property which belongs to a well respected Chilean hotel group, but with a real cutting-edge designer twist. From the eye-catching geometric façade to giant paintings in the guest rooms it reflects the creative energy of the artistic and bohemian neighbourhood of Lastarria in the centre of which it has pride of place. There are plenty of arty cafés and bars, street artwork and sculptures, galleries and trendy boutiques just outside the front door, and the whole district – which also has some lovely old residences -has an up and coming, buzzy vibe.
The hotel’s 70 rooms are spacious and well appointed with all the contemporary amenities you’d expect. Other facilities include a gym, an outdoor lap-pool, and an eighth-floor restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine and offering great views of the Santiago skyline.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Peru - Lima
Peru’s capital doesn’t get the credit it deserves. In Lima, colonial grandeur, world-class gastronomy and Pacific Ocean views combine to make it one of South America’s most exciting cities. Known as the City of Kings, Lima blends rich colonial heritage with contemporary culture, outstanding museums and some of the best food on the continent.
Peru - Cusco
Surrounded by the Andean mountains, the former capital of the Inca Empire boasts intricate temples and golden-hued colonial architecture. Explore rugged landscapes and fascinating architecture with a Cusco holiday from Journey Latin America.
Peru - Sacred Valley of the Incas
We think of the Sacred Valley as the heartland of the Inca Empire – fertile valleys, snow-capped mountains and ancient stone fortresses make it one of Peru’s most captivating landscapes. Stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, it’s home to colourful markets, traditional villages, remarkable archaeological sites and some of the country’s most spectacular scenery.
Peru - Machu Picchu
Few archaeological sites in the world compare to Machu Picchu, where ancient Inca stonework clings to a mountain ridge high above a jungle-clad valley. Nestled among cloud-wreathed Andean peaks at 2,430m, this corner of Machu Picchu Peru combines spectacular scenery, remarkable architecture and fascinating history to create one of South America’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
Peru - Lake Titicaca – Peruvian side
Deep blue waters stretch towards snow-capped mountains at one of Latin America’s most iconic destinations, where traditional island communities preserve centuries-old ways of life. Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake and one of the Andes’ most remarkable cultural landscapes.
Bolivia - Lake Titicaca – Bolivian side
Watch a priest bless flower-decked cars outside Copacabana’s white basilica, sail across the cobalt water to Isla del Sol, and walk island trails with the snow-capped Cordillera Real on the horizon. On Bolivia’s shore of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake feels quieter, more sacred and closer to its Andean roots.
Bolivia - La Paz and the altiplano
At a dizzying 3,632m, La Paz is the world’s highest capital, its colourful, closely-packed buildings tumbling down a canyon beneath the ice-jacketed peak of Illimani. Beyond the city, the vast altiplano unfolds into windswept plains, ancient ruins and indigenous communities that have shaped this corner of the Andes for centuries.
Bolivia - Uyuni salt flats
Discover one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth, where endless white salt stretches to the horizon and sky merges seamlessly with land. From the surreal Salar de Uyuni to colourful mineral-rich lagoons and volcanic scenery, south-west Bolivia offers one of South America’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
Chile - Atacama Desert
Vast salt flats, steaming geysers, flamingo-filled lagoons and volcanic peaks create a world that feels more like another planet than the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. As the driest non-polar desert on Earth, this is one of South America’s most spectacular destinations for adventure, wildlife and stargazing.
Chile - Santiago and the vineyards
Snow-capped Andean peaks overlook cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, historic plazas and sun-drenched vineyards in Santiago Chile – the country’s sophisticated capital and its surrounding wine country. Combining urban culture with world-class wineries, Santiago and vineyards nearby give you the perfect introduction to Chile.
This adventurous yet comfortable journey through the Andean heartland explores a variety of mountain landscapes. After exploring the misty cloud forests surrounding Machu Picchu, and crossing sapphire-hued Lake Titicaca, traverse the sparkling salt flats of Uyuni before descending to the arid rocks of Atacama – the driest desert in the world.
Throughout, a rich indigenous culture is manifest in intricate and brightly coloured costumes and markets bursting with produce and crafts. The imposing ancient ruins bear testament to the region’s complex and tumultuous history. The desolate high-altitude desert of south-western Bolivia is beautiful and utterly remote, with rough roads and basic infrastructure (even the hotels are constructed from salt!). An adventurous spirit is necessary to get the most from this memorable trip.
Berner Torres
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- About Our Group Tours
To find out more about how our group tours including group sizes, solo travellers and why to choose us. Please click here.
- Tour Leader
On this tour, you’ll be accompanied from start to finish by one of our exceptional Journey Latin America tour leaders. From the moment you land in Latin America until the day the tour ends they will deal with all the practicalities, expertly adapting to the circumstances and individual needs of the group. Rather than different guides in different cities, your leader will get to know the group and keep you informed and entertained as you go.
- Summary of Nights
17 days, 16 nights: Lima 1; Cusco 1; Sacred Valley 1; Machu Picchu 1; Cusco 2; Puno 1; Copacabana 1; La Paz 3; Uyuni area 2; San Pedro 2; Santiago 1.
- Accommodation
This tour uses a range of hotels from mid-range through to first class. More simple lodgings in the Uyuni salt flats are used.
Hotels we use on the Andean Flamingo Journey include:
• Lima: Antigua Miraflores
• Cusco: Casa Andina Premium
• Sacred Valley: Pakaritampu
• Machu Picchu: El Mapi
• Puno: Posada del Inca
• Copacabana: Rosario del Lago
• La Paz: Hotel Europa
• Uyuni area: Hotel Tayka del Sal
• Uyuni area: Hotel Tayka del Desierto
• San Pedro de Atacama: Cumbres San Pedro
• Santiago: Cumbres SantiagoOn very rare occasions these hotels can change, however please speak to one of our consultants who can provide full details for each departure if you have any doubts. Address and contact details will be sent out with your final documents.
- Transport
3 flights (longest 2 hrs), 2 train journeys (3.5hrs), 4 scenic road journeys (longest 8 hrs with stops) all done using private vehicles.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, lunch days 3 and 14, dinner day 4 and full-board days 12 and 13.
- Optional Excursions
On this tour the price includes excursions in all the places you visit as per the itinerary. There will however likely be some free time when you may choose to take part in an optional excursion. These are booked locally through your tour leader once you are in Latin America, however we are more than happy to advise you of what is on offer in advance of your holiday so you can best plan the excursions that suit you.
- Travelling Alone
There is no extra cost for single travellers who are willing to share a room. You will be accommodated with a same-sex member of the group who is usually also travelling solo. For single travellers who wish to be sure of having their own room there are a limited number of single rooms available, which carry a surcharge.
- Trip Suitability
The pace of this trip is fast; there are early mornings and long days spent travelling (albeit with frequent stops and fantastic scenery). The Uyuni crossing involves long days of travel across often bumpy terrain. All walks are optional and you should consult your tour leader to make sure you undertake optional excursions that are best suited for you. Please note that if you have requested a double matrimonial room at booking stage this cannot be guaranteed on some parts of the tour such as on the Uyuni Salt Flats crossing due to most of the rooms have twin beds.
- Climate
This trip operates from April through to October to avoid the wet season in the Andes. Temperatures elsewhere will be pleasant but during the San Pedro to Uyuni crossing, temperatures at night can drop well below freezing. A comprehensive overview of the weather in all the regions you are visiting can be found in our Destination pages. Our Travel Experts can answer your questions on climate and further details will be sent with your confirmation documents.
- Altitude
Many of the excursions are at high altitude. Symptoms of altitude sickness vary; most common are mild headaches, slight nausea and breathlessness. Most people are unaffected and if you drink plenty of water and allow your body to acclimatise (don’t exert yourself or drink alcohol) in the first couple of days after arrival, you will minimise your chances of suffering any symptoms.
Please refer to our Briefing Dossier for further information.
- Clothing and Special Equipment
For day-to-day wear you should go prepared to encounter all seasons. Both warm clothing and a sun hat are essential at altitude; a light fleece jacket and a Gore-Tex outer shell makes a good combination. Trousers or shorts made from light, quick-drying synthetic materials also work well. It can get very cold at altitude, particularly after sundown and so warm clothes are essential as is a good waterproof jacket.
Strong, comfortable footwear is also essential and you should bring insect repellent, sun block and sunglasses. A torch can also be useful during your time on the salt flats.
Due to luggage restrictions on the train to Machu Picchu, you will leave the bulk of your baggage in the Cusco hotel, which will be waiting for you on your return. You can take up to 5kgs per person on the train. An overnight holdall/rucksack is recommended to separate your luggage for the time spent away.
- Money
Please see the Country Info tab on this holiday for our latest currency information and advice about how to take your spending money. Tipping in Latin America is almost always done using cash. It is customary to tip tour leaders, local guides, drivers, boat crews and other service providers such as restaurant staff and porters. Full tipping guidelines are sent with your confirmation documents as is advice on local costs.
If you would like to show your appreciation to your Journey Latin America tour leader, who you may feel has exceeded your expectations, a discretionary gratuity would be gratefully received. As a guideline we recommend an amount of between $5 USD and $7USD per person, per day. You are obviously free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality.
- Health, Entry Requirements and Insurance
For health information on travelling to Peru, Bolivia and Chile including recommended vaccinations, please see https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/
All Latin American countries have specific entry regulations related to Covid 19. Please also check our Travel Hub for further information.
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Other nationalities should enquire with us or check with the consulates.
Travel insurance is essential. Details of our recommended policy can be found on the Travel insurance website.
- Do I need a visa to visit Chile?
British passport holders don’t need a visa for tourist visits. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the start of your trip. If you’re routing through the US, you’ll need an ESTA in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
- How do I get to Chile from the UK?
British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to Santiago, taking around 14.5 hours. There are also connecting routes via Madrid, Paris and other European hubs. We arrange all flights and transfers, and can quote them separately based on your dates.
- What's the best way to travel around Chile?
The country’s length makes domestic flights the most practical way to cover long distances, with most routes connecting through Santiago. Within regions, we arrange private transfers and guided excursions. For scenic stretches like the Lake District or the Carretera Austral, overland travel is part of the experience.
- What currency does Chile use?
The official currency is the Chilean peso. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, and ATMs are available in most towns. Carry some cash for tips, smaller purchases and rural areas. We’ll advise on the latest currency situation before you travel.
- What's the altitude like in Chile?
Most of Chile sits at low to moderate altitude, but parts of the Atacama, including Lauca National Park and areas around San Pedro, reach over 3,000m. Altitude can cause headaches, dizziness and breathlessness, so it’s important to acclimatise gradually, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol on arrival. We plan all itineraries with altitude in mind.
- How long should I spend in Chile?
Two weeks works well for a single focus, such as the Atacama with a few days in Santiago, or Torres del Paine with time in the lake district. To cover Chile’s full range, from desert to Patagonia, allow three weeks or more. We’ll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.
- Do I need vaccinations for Chile?
There are currently no mandatory vaccines for UK travellers visiting Chile, but we always recommend checking the most up-to-date requirements well before travelling. You can do this by visiting TravelHealthPro and FCDO travel pages. Alternatively, you can contact us and speak to one of our experts who can advise on any current considerations for the areas you’re visiting.
- What countries can I combine with Chile?
Chile pairs naturally with Argentina, crossing the Andes from Santiago to Mendoza, or the lakes from Puerto Varas to Bariloche. Bolivia is an easy add-on from the Atacama, with routes through the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Our Travel Experts can design a multi-country trip around you.
- Do I need a visa to visit Peru?
Holders of a full British passport don’t need a visa for visits of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive, and you may be asked to show proof of onward travel. If you’re travelling via the US, you’ll also need an ESTA. For the latest entry requirements, check the FCDO travel pages or contact us.
- How do I get to Peru from the UK?
There are no direct flights from the UK to Peru. Most routes connect through a European or US hub – common connections include Madrid, Amsterdam and Miami. Flights land at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, around 45 minutes from the city centre.
Flight time is typically 12 to 15 hours depending on routing. We’re happy to quote international flights separately based on your dates and preferences.
- How do I get around Peru?
Distances are large, so domestic flights are the most practical way to move between regions. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes around 1 hour 20 minutes.
From Cusco, we arrange private transfers to the Sacred Valley and train connections to Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu. Cusco to Puno, for Lake Titicaca, is around six to seven hours by road across the high Altiplano, or you can take the scenic PeruRail Titicaca train.
Reaching the Amazon means a short flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado or from Lima to Iquitos.
- What currency is used in Peru?
Peru uses the Peruvian sol (PEN). ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.
US dollars are accepted in many tourist areas, but you’ll get a better deal paying in sol. Carry cash for markets, smaller restaurants and remote areas. Peru is five hours behind GMT.
- How long should I spend in Peru?
Two weeks is ideal for a full tour covering Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and either Colca Canyon or the Amazon. Ten days comfortably cover the main highlights.
With three weeks, you can add the Amazon, the Nazca Lines, or a crossing into Bolivia. Peru also combines well with Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, or with Argentina and Patagonia as part of a wider trip.
- What’s the best time of year to visit Peru?
The dry season from May to October is best for the Andes, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca – warm days, cold nights and clear skies. The Inca Trail closes in February.
Lima’s coast is warmest from December to April, and the Amazon can be visited year-round, with different advantages in each season. We can advise on the best timing for your itinerary.
- What countries combine well with Peru?
Peru pairs naturally with Bolivia – many of our holidays cross from Lake Titicaca into La Paz and the Uyuni salt flats. Ecuador is a short flight from Lima, and a Peru–Ecuador–Galápagos Islands itinerary is one of our most popular.
For a broader South America trip, you can add Argentina and Buenos Aires, Brazil and Rio de Janeiro, Chile or Colombia. Our Travel Experts can design a multi-country tour around you.
- What vaccinations do I need for Peru?
Please check current health recommendations for Peru before you travel. A yellow fever vaccination is recommended if you’re visiting the Amazon, and you may need a certificate if travelling on to certain other countries.
Altitude sickness is a consideration in Cusco (3,400m) and at Lake Titicaca (3,812m) – we build acclimatisation time into all our itineraries. For up-to-date advice, check the FCDO travel pages or contact us.
- Is Peru safe to visit?
The main tourist areas – Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the Amazon lodges – are well visited and generally safe.
As anywhere, take sensible precautions, particularly in Lima and Cusco. We plan every itinerary carefully using trusted local partners and established routes. Check the FCDO travel pages for current government advice, and our Travel Experts will flag anything relevant to your trip.
- What is the food like in Peru?
The food is one of the highlights of any trip. Lima ranks among South America’s best places to eat – ceviche made with fresh fish cured in lime juice, lomo saltado (a stir-fried beef dish with Chinese-Peruvian roots), and ají de gallina (shredded chicken in a creamy, mildly spiced sauce).
Try a pisco sour, Peru’s national cocktail, in a rooftop bar overlooking the Pacific. In the Andes, the traditional dishes include hearty soups, roasted guinea pig (cuy), and quinoa; in the Amazon, freshwater fish and tropical fruit. Wherever you go, our local restaurants of choice are ones we’ll happily point you to.
- When's the best time to visit Bolivia?
The weather can be a critical factor: the altiplano highlands look their best in the sunlight Apr-Oct, in Dec-Jan it can be dull and chilly at this altitude (3,500-3,800m). The lowlands of the east are hot and humid all year around.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What's the official language of Bolivia?
Spanish is the official language of Bolivia.
- What is the national currency of Bolivia?
Peso Boliviano is the national currency of Bolivia. Notes in local currency (and in some cases US dollars), can be withdrawn from ubiquitous ATMs in principal cities and some smaller towns; there are many money exchanges (casas de cambio) and banks which exchange US dollars (a few accept euros or sterling but the rate may be poor).
When withdrawing money from an ATM using a debit card, you are offered a choice of account type from which to make your withdrawal: select ‘Credit Card’ (ie NOT Current account or Savings Account options).
- What's the time difference between Bolivia and UK?
The time difference between Bolivia and the UK is GMT -4 hrs.
- Do I need a visa for Bolivia?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Bolivia?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What countries combine well with Bolivia?
If you’re planning a trip to South America there are some perfect destinations to combine with a holiday in Bolivia. Try a visit to Peru via Lake Titicaca, 122 km and a couple of hours’ drive from La Paz; or even a holiday in Chile, entering the country via the dazzling salt lakes of Uyuni.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Bolivia?
The key festivals and cultural events in Bolivia are:
Gran Poder: La Paz, Late May/early Jun annually: processions of groups of indigenous dancers in costume, with historical and cultural themes.
Carnival: Oruro, La Diablada, Feb-Mar: One of the most eye-catching on the continent, with parades of people in elaborate costumes. - How do I adapt to the altitude in Bolivia?
Much of Bolivia is occupied by stunning high Andean terrain, with La Paz at 3,500m.
Travel to high altitude can cause mountain sickness and even if you feel fighting fit it’s important to take things easy and stay hydrated (drink plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine) as you get used to the thin, dry air.You may initially notice a headache, dizziness or breathlessness and this usually improves with acclimatisation. If you are pregnant or taking the contraceptive pill, have a medical condition such as heart or lung condition, anaemia, asthma, high blood pressure you should seek the advice of your GP before booking.
We also recommend you check your travel insurance covers travel to high altitude. If you’re taking the family, remember small children may be less capable of communicating altitude-related symptoms effectively: keep an eye on them too. Rest assured we will plan your itinerary carefully, taking into account any time spent at altitude. If you have any questions or concerns about altitude please speak to your travel expert.
Further advice on travel to altitude is available on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk.
If you still have questions, please contact us and one of our Travel Experts will be happy to help.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Take a guided stroll through the historic Inca capital with its extraordinary mix of ancient stonework and colonial architecture.
Take a tour of the colossal stone fortress of Sacsayhuamán, a hugely important Inca ruin on the outskirts of Cusco.
Explore the world-famous Lost City of the Incas: the undisputed jewel in Peru’s crown.
Take a guided tour of the world’s highest capital city, visiting the notorious Witches’ Market. Some excursions include a visit to the contorted rocks of the Valley of the Moon.
Discover a surreal landscape of endless salt, blindingly white in the dry season or mirroring the sky in the wet season.
Take a guided tour around the Valley of the Moon with their otherworldly rock formations, before watching an unforgettable sunset from the top of a desert dune.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
A modern and contemporary hotel with great amenities, in keeping with the low rise adobe style of San Pedro.
Welcoming hotel with a traditional, rustic feel, set within attractive gardens with beautiful mountain views.
Affordable yet stylish and comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes beneath Machu Picchu with an emphasis on quality and minimalism.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Nazca Lines + Paracas
Travel to the Paracas Peninsula and explore the bird-smothered Ballestas Islands by boat. Fly over the Nazca Lines for a bird’s eye view of the giant symbols and lines carved into skeletal desert rock by the pre-Columbian Nazca people. Day 1: From Lima, travel by public coach south to Paracas (3.5hrs) on the Panamerican Highway,…
Easter Island
Polynesian Easter Island (Rapa Nui) lies 3,790km off the Chilean coast in the remote sub-tropical South Pacific. Windswept and grassy on one side, lushly vegetated on the other, and with a benign climate, it is famous for the clusters of huge enigmatic stone heads standing starkly against an azure skyline. Experience the unique atmosphere and…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
Featured Articles
To round the corner of a mountain and see the lost citadel of Machu Picchu unfold beneath you remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Latin America, one of those dreamlike experiences that makes travelling here truly extraordinary.
The Pantanal wetlands cover an area almost the size of the British Isles and offers better wildlife opportunities than the Amazon. Writer and photographer Alex Bellos discovers them.
Small, breathtakingly beautiful Costa Rica is a treasure trove for the nature lover. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals and hummingbirds, while the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.
