Peru 10-Day Trip

$3,500 USD – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)

A down payment of half the trip cost, $1,750, per person is needed to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.

*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.

I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?

If you would like a single room throughout the tour, you can purchase the “single supplement”. The single supplement fee for this trip is $530. If you would like your own room, the additional supplement can be purchased at check-out.

If you are comfortable sharing a room with another traveler of the same gender and would like us to pair you with someone to avoid paying the single supplement, we can arrange this for you. Pairing with another person of the same gender comes on a first-come, first-served basis. At the time of booking, there will be a questionnaire pertaining to this. Please complete it accurately so that we can try our best to accommodate your preferences.

IMPORTANT: If we cannot find a roommate for you, you will need to purchase the single supplement. Roommates will always be the same gender. We try our best to pair roommates based on preferences (i.e. non-smokers, no snoring, night owls, early birds, etc.), but this is not always possible. If you are a light sleeper, sensitive to certain smells, etc., we recommend purchasing the single supplement. We will put you in contact with your roommate after booking. If you wish to have your own room at any point during the trip, you will need to purchase the single supplement pro rata. This will also be subject to availability.

What is included :

  • 9 nights accommodation (double occupancy)
  • 360º Panoramic train to Machu Picchu (1st class)
  • Local tour leader throughout
  • Round-trip flights: Lima – Cusco / Cusco – Lima
  • Private ground transportation
  • Most activities (as noted in the itinerary)
  • All breakfasts
  • 6 lunches, 4 dinners

What is not included :

  • International airport pick-up & drop-off
  • Optional activities
  • Some lunches & dinners
  • Gratuities
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Souvenirs
  • International flights
  • Insurance

  1. Physical requirements

    This trip requires a low to moderate level of physical fitness. If you’re not feeling up for an activity, you’re welcome to explore on your own.

    Some hotels do not have elevators so you’ll need to be able to walk up and down at least 2 – 3 or more flights of stairs with varying degrees of steepness, with your luggage, and unassisted. Most hotels will have porters or staff to help you with luggage, but please keep this in mind when tipping.

    To participate in this trip you should be able to:

    • Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day, up/down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces with/without an incline, and on paths with rough terrain made of dirt, mud, rocks, stones, etc.
    • Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4 hours walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, and in all weather conditions.
    • Carry your luggage from the taxi/van to the hotel and to your room.
    • Get in and out of a van and train without assistance.

    Altitude

    Many places on this tour are located over 9,000 – 11,000 feet above sea level and you may experience some altitude sickness. If you’re prone to altitude sickness or you’re unsure how it’ll affect you, we recommend bringing medication for this just in case.

    Smile policy

    We welcome all kinds of travelers on our tours and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You will need to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.

    Free time

    Our tours are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your tour leader can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities.

    Tour leader

    Your tour leader’s role is to help you have an unforgettable experience. He/she can answer questions and offer suggestions about what to do in your free time. He/she will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but is not your personal assistant. Travelers must exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our tours. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your tour leader who will be with you every day throughout the entire tour. Finally, you will need to come with an open mind and adventurous spirit in order to have the trip of a lifetime!

    NOTE: Changes to the itinerary may occur due to weather or instructions from the local authorities. This can happen with little to no notice so please be prepared for potential modifications. A sense of humor and flexibility will ensure that you have a fun, relaxing trip in this beautiful part of the world no matter what happens.

  2. Each group consists of 4 – 12 travelers. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, small groups are more easily able to integrate into local society and generally have more authentic contact with the locals.

    A small group number also means that you will receive more personalized treatment from the tour leader who can thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be easily altered. If the group discovers a special event or festival they would like to attend, it is easier to organize with a smaller group.

  3. Most of our travelers are in their late 30s – early 70s with many being solo female travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the energy created by the group. Past travelers have told us that the group dynamic was one of the highlights of the trip.

    The minimum age on our tours is 18.

    Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples. 

  4. While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and the tour leader can recommend activities that might interest you. Optional activities are not included in the trip cost and will be paid at your own expense.

  5. The official currency of Peru is the nuevo sol (PEN). US dollars are also accepted in many stores, restaurants, hotels, and service stations, but it is usually cheaper to pay with the local currency.

    Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using an online currency converter.

  6. We strongly recommend that you use ATMs while in Peru as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to withdraw some money from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.

    You can find ATMs at most bank branches, large supermarkets, gas stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices.

    It’s important to notify your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Peru. Some banks may block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.

    Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks or exchange offices.

  7. Tipping is generally considered good practice among travelers to Peru and is generally encouraged. In restaurants, taxis, and for personal services, all tips are at your discretion and if you do decide to tip, around 10% of the total bill is acceptable.

    Tipping your tour leader: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip anywhere from $100 – $150 USD at the end of the trip.

    For more information about tipping your guide, please see our blog on tipping your tour guide.

  8. Based on past travelers’ feedback, an estimated amount to bring for spending is between $400 – $600 USD. WE HIGHLY ADVISE BRINGING OR HAVING ACCESS TO MORE MONEY THAN YOU EXPECT TO SPEND IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.

    As most components of your trip have been prepaid, you will only need money for lunches and dinners as well as any optional activity you may want to participate in. If you are an avid shopper or enjoy a cocktail in the evening, these costs are incurred at your own expense.

  9. US, Australian, Canadian, and UK passport holders traveling to Peru for less than 90 days DO NOT need a visa. You may be required to show proof of exit from Peru in the form of a departure flight ticket.

    As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

  10. When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Peru, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:

    Welcome to Peru! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day. 

    You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.

  11. The hotels you will be staying at will offer free Wifi as will most restaurants and other public places. Please keep in mind that the internet may not be as fast as you’re used to and could be spotty if not absent in more remote areas.

  12. You do not need an adapter if coming from the USA or Canada. However, Peru operates on 220V so you’ll need a converter if your devices operate on 110/120V.

    Parts of Peru have the same plug shape as the United States and Canada (Type A). Other parts of the country use round-pin Euro plug outlets (Type C) so it is best to bring an adapter.

  13. You will travel through two different climate zones during your trip. Please note the difference in temperatures so you can pack accordingly.

    – Lima and the coast: Mild climate. Cloudy and foggy in the winter and pleasantly warm in the summer. Average temperatures all year are around 70 – 80º F during the day and 50 – 60º F at night.

    – Highlands or Andean zone: Cool to warm temperatures during the day and colder at night due to the high altitude. In Cusco and the Sacred Valley (9,000 – 11,000 feet above sea level), the average temperatures are usually around 65 – 70º F during the day and 30 – 45ºF at night.

  14. Temperatures will vary during this trip as you will travel through different climate zones. Please pack appropriately for the different climates you’ll encounter.

    Below are some essentials that we strongly recommend bringing to make your trip enjoyable:

    • Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with good tread and ankle support*
    • Light jacket or windbreaker (for cool evenings)
    • Warm and water-resistant coat* (for unexpected rains)
    • Warm/thermal clothing* 
    • Gloves, scarf, and beanie
    • Bathing suit
    • Sunscreen*
    • Sunglasses
    • Umbrella
    • Small, across-the-shoulder day bag or small backpack
    • Headlamp or flashlight
    • Insect and mosquito repellent
    • Any prescription medication and over-the-counter medicine (if needed)
    • Altitude*
    • Motion sickness medication
    • Shampoo/conditioner/soap
    • Hairdryer
    • Hand sanitizer/Hand wipes
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Portable charger/battery pack for phone
    • Adapters/converters

    *Must-have items!

    There are different climates in Peru and it is important to be prepared for the different levels of humidity and temperatures between them. Note that even if there is just a little rain, the paths could get pretty muddy so sturdy sneakers or boots with good tread and ankle support are 100% essential.

  15. Some of the hotels on this trip offer laundry services for a fee. 

  16. Most will agree that the drinking water in Peru is not safe for consumption. Drinking only bottled water is recommended. Bottled water is easily found and can be purchased for a fee.

    You will be able to purchase bottled water but to alleviate the plastic waste epidemic, we recommend a reusable filtered water bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl.

  17. As with most travel destinations, it is important to exercise caution and to be aware of your surroundings while traveling in Peru, especially in larger cities. We suggest not wearing expensive jewelry when walking around and keeping an eye on your bag while out and about. Wearing your bag on the front of your body is also advised. Traveling with one other person or more at all times is also a good idea, especially at night. It is always a good idea to store portions of your cash in different places. (i.e. $100 in your purse, $100 in your suitcase, $100 in your carry-on, etc.) Finally, we recommend carrying a color copy of your passport and keeping the original in a safe place.

    Most travelers to Peru do not have any problems. As long as you remember to keep a watchful eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, you will have a safe and memorable trip!

  18. Yes, we can. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requestssuch as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the tour although options might be limited.

  19. Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website for Peru before traveling to Peru to see any recommended vaccinations.

    If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.

  20. We offer private tours to Peru depending on the size of the group and availability.

    Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.

Flights

Your arrival and departure city is Lima (LIM).

*Please do not purchase any flights until you receive an email confirmation from us which will be sent to you 24 – 48 hours after booking your spot on the trip.

Visa

Currently, passport holders of the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa to travel to Peru for tourism. You may be required to show proof of exit from Peru in the form of a departure ticket.

If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Peru.

As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Many countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season between May and October. There are different climates between the coast, the Amazon, and the Highlands where temperatures and humidity vary.

Coastal weather:
Amazon weather:
Highlands weather:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The hotels and accommodations in which you will be staying in Peru have been carefully selected. They are usually locally-owned or family-run hotels rather than big chains with hundreds of rooms and big crowds of tourists. We try our best to select accommodations with impeccable service and old-world charm with a central location.

Lima

This hotel, once a family home, is adorned with traditional Peruvian aesthetics and a homey ambiance. It has a restaurant and lounge bar and is situated in the quiet area of Miraflores, close to restaurants, shopping, el Parque de Amor, and Miraflores Central Park with its nightly folklore shows.

Cusco

This boutique hotel is a renovated mansion originally built in 1599 and comgines old-world charm and modern amenities. Located in the old colonial part of Cusco, the hotel sits in front of Limacpampa Square and is a few minutes walk from Cusco’s main square, Plaza de Armas. It has a colonial-style bar with a terrace, a restaurant, a cozy living room with a reading room, and a fireplace. All rooms have wooden balconies overlooking one of the three hotel’s courtyards.

Sacred Valley

This hotel is set in a charming 18th-century building surrounded by the mountains of the Sacred Valley. It has a courtyard with a cozy outdoor sitting area, a restaurant, a bar, and a fireplace to enjoy social moments on cool evenings. All rooms have large windows with a balcony offering panoramic garden and mountain views.

Ollantaytambo

This charming boutique hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the scenic ruins and the main square of Ollantaytambo. A small stream runs in front of the property which creates a tranquil soundscape to fall asleep to at night.

Aguas Calientes

This hotel is situated in the heart of Aguas Calientes right at the foot of Machu Picchu. It boasts contemporary rooms with large windows overlooking the cloud forest and the valley. The restaurant offers organic gastronomy and the bar serves tapas, piscos, and organic wines. The café offers a breakfast buffet with smoothies and Belgian waffles as well as salads and soups made with fresh natural ingredients. There is also a top-notch spa with an unmissable view of the surrounding natural environment if you’d like to relax after a busy day at Machu Picchu.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around for a provider and policy that best suit your needs.

For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.

Trip insurance get a quote travelex

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N