Epic Peru & Bolivia

Experience the highlights of Peru and Bolivia on this unforgettable two-week itinerary, taking in the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca with its floating reed islands and the mind blowing Uyuni salt flats, the largest salt pan in the world. Discover amazing cultural sites and colonial cities along the way and tuck into delicious Peruvian cuisine.

1. Fly to Lima

2. Days 1-3: Lima and the Desert Coast

   Fly into Lima and begin your South American adventure in Peru's capital city and gastronomic heart. Stay in the quirky and upmarket Barranco neighborhood which sits above the Pacific Ocean and is home to fantastic dining, shopping and nightlife at the weekends, as well as some of the city's most revered galleries and museums. Explore the MATE museum which houses Mario Testino's collection and embark on a foodie tour of the city, sampling some of Peru's most iconic dishes.

   Accommodation: Hotel B (2 nights)

3. Days 3-5: Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

   From Lima, fly south to Cuzco and head straight into the Sacred Valley of the Incas where you'll be greeted by a stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks and lush corn fields lined by colorful villages. The valley is rich with Inca ruins, vibrant local markets and beautiful hiking trails and famously forms the gateway to Machu Picchu. Spend two nights here adjusting to the high altitude, enjoying a privately guided tour to Pisac market and ruins, where you can find a rainbow of Andean handicrafts. A tour to Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Inca towns, has also been included on your way to take the train to Machu Picchu.

   Accommodation: Hotel Sol y Luna (2 nights)

4. Days 5-6: Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

   After your tour of Ollantaytambo, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town which sits at the base of Machu Picchu. Soak in impressive mountain views along the way as you wind through the valley floor. A bus will take you from the train station up the winding road to the gates to Machu Picchu where your guide will introduce you to this spectacular world wonder. Lunch is provided at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge; overnight in Aguas Calientes.

   Accommodation: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (1 night)

5. Days 6-8: Cusco

   In the morning, take the train back from Aguas Calientes to Cuzco, a beautifully preserved colonial city which was once the heart of the Inca empire. Today, Cuzco has plenty to offer, with a number of museums, galleries, Inca ruins and a great restaurant and bar scene. Enjoy a privately guided tour taking in the highlights, visiting the Inca ruins which surround the historical center and admiring the cathedral on the main plaza. After some free time to relax and explore independently enjoy a walking tour of Cuzco by night, exploring the city's maze of colorful streets at its most atmospheric.

   Accommodation: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco (2 nights)

6. Days 8-10: Lake Titicaca

   Travel to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake which straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. The lake is famed for its unique floating islands made from reeds, home to the Uros Indians. Enjoy a full day tour of the lake, visiting these unusual islands and learning about local life here, interacting with friendly fishermen and farmers.

   Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Puno (2 nights)

7. Days 10-13: Salar de Uyuni & the Altiplano

   Your final stop on this whirlwind adventure is the incredible Uyuni Salt Flats. Stay at Kachi Lodge a unique glamping experience that will see you sleep in heated domes under the stars and offers a real wow-factor.

   Take a morning hike to a nearby "island in the salt" that is covered in cacti and offers breathtaking views across the Salar. Head to visit the village of Coquesa and visit its ancient mummies that lie sheltered in a cave 600m above, another place to take in beautiful views of the vast white expanse. Those wishing to do a little more than just stretch their legs can embark on a 2 hour hike to the impressive Tunipa volcano's lower crater and people with an interest in the local community and life at the salt flats may choose to visit the quinoa fields or walk with the llama farmers and their herds. Whilst the wet season is popular among photographers in particular, those wishing to try their hand at paddle boarding across the Salar may do so if the water level allows! Finally, end your days peeking through the lodge's telescope and observing the Altiplano's incredible starry sky.

   Accommodation: Kachi Lodge (3 nights)

8. Days 13-15: La Paz

   Bid farewell to Peru today and head to the bustling Bolivian capital of La Paz. Spending a couple of nights here gives you time to explore the city's fascinating witches' market and charming colonial quarter. You're likely to feel the altitude here so we recommend resting on your arrival day. For your full day in the city though we have included a full day privately-guided tour that will take you all over this buzzing city and see you ride on its iconic cable car system - get ready for some impressive views of this sprawling metropolis.

   Accommodation: Casa Grande Hotel (2 nights)

9. Fly Home from Uyuni

   After breakfast, transfer back to Uyuni and board a connecting flight home via La Paz.

Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, La Paz & Uyuni