Day 1 : Lima Arrival
Welcome to Peru! Arrive in Lima and settle into your hotel in the vibrant Miraflores district, full of great restaurants, cafes, shops, and pubs. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have time to explore your new surroundings such as Huaca Pucllana, an adobe pyramid built over 1500 years ago! Or stretch your legs with a walk on the boardwalk and through El Parque de Amor with its mosaïc walls and a giant cheeky statue depicting two lovers embracing. Otherwise, kick back and relax with a glass of wine at your Spanish colonial-era hotel.
Included :
- Activities: Arrival (at your own expense); Free time
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 2 : Lima
After breakfast, hit the streets of Lima’s historic city center this morning for a walking tour with your tour leader as you make your way to the city’s most iconic building, the San Francisco Monastery, where you’ll descend into its macabre catacombs.
Next up is a gourmet stroll through Old Lima as you try some of the local favorite street treats. End up at Alameda Chabuca Granda where the limeños (people of Lima) go to enjoy their snacks and chill.
Meet in the evening for a tour around the bohemian Barranco neighborhood to admire some of its street art. This district is full of artists, musicians, and writers and is also known as the coolest neighborhood in Lima. There’ll be time to stop at some amazing handicraft shops such as Dedalo, an Aladdin’s cave of unique souvenirs, decorative objects, handicrafts, clothing, and jewelry by contemporary Peruvian designers.
Dinner will be at one of Lima’s top restaurants overlooking pre-Incan ruins that once served as an important administrative and ceremonial center many centuries ago.
Included :
- Activities: Lima city walking tour; San Francisco Monastery & Catacombs; Street food tour; Alameda Chabuca Granda; Barranco tour
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (street food tour), Dinner
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 3 : Cusco
Today, you’ll fly to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, and have some free time on arrival to get adjusted to the higher altitude if needed. The hotel is located in the picturesque neighborhood of San Blas, Cusco’s hip, artistic neighborhood, where you’ll find many art studios and artisan workshops.
Later, attend a healing ceremony with a real shaman who will use coca leaves, grains, wine, and seeds to purify your spirit. Coca leaves have been used for healing purposes in ceremonies in Central and South America for ages and this sacred plant is known for its transformational benefits.
Included :
- Transfers: Lima – Cusco (approximately 2 hours by plane)
- Activities: Healing ceremony with a shaman & Coca leaf reading
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 4 : Cusco
After breakfast, you’ll be on your merry way to the rustic town of Chinchero via the fertile Sacred Valley. Chinchero is a typical Andean village that the Inca believed to be the birthplace of the rainbow. Visit the colorful market where local artisans sell their handmade textiles, silver jewelry, pottery, and more.
Next, onward to the Maras salt ponds, an impressive expanse of terraces covering a hillside, built by the Inca to harvest and gather salt. Lunch will follow at a local family’s restaurant which is dedicated to high-level Peruvian food. The restaurant is literally “in the middle of nowhere” and you’ll be able to enjoy spectacular views as you dine.
Continue to Moray to see the mind-boggling giant circular terraces used to plant various crops during the Inca reign. There are many theories about the purpose of these strange formations, from agricultural research to alien landing sites!
You’ll have the rest of the evening free in Cusco to relax or explore the city.
Included :
- Activities: Sacred Valley scenic drive; Chinchero local market & town; Maras salt ponds; Moray terraces
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 5 : Sacred Valley
You’ll travel further through the awe-inspiring Sacred Valley today with a stop at El Mirador for breathtaking views of the entire valley. Before arriving in at your hotel in the valley, visit a family farm called Hacienda Sarapampa where they will share their corn production practices and traditions with you followed by a farm-to-fork lunch with more spectacular views of the Sacred Valley.
After a hearty lunch, pay a visit to the Pisac ruins to learn more about the Inca culture. Marvel at its impressive agricultural terraces and the magnificent stone-carved art of the Incas.
Thereafter, check in to the hotel and have some free time to rest. Later that night, gather as a group again for another delicious meal together.
Included :
- Transfers: Cusco – Sacred Valley (approximately 2 hours by bus)
- Activities: El Mirador; Hacienda Sarapampa; Pisac ruins; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 6 : Ollantaytambo
Today, you’ll journey to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important towns in the Sacred Valley of the Cusco Inca. It is known as the ‘Living Inca City’ as it is the only Inca town that is still inhabited. The inhabitants live in full respect of the traditions inherited by their ancestors. The picturesque streets contain original Inca architecture combining temples and colonial squares.
There’ll be a visit to the archeological complex of Ollantaytambo, known for its step terraces and numerous Inca sites built into the side of the mountain, overlooking the town. The ruins of Ollantaytambo are some of the best-preserved Inca ruins in Peru.
Next, head for lunch in Ollantaytambo before getting settled into your hotel for some free time to explore the town for the rest of the day.
Included :
- Transfers: Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo (approximately 1 hour by bus)
- Activities: Ollantaytambo ruins; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 7 : Machu Picchu & Aguas Calientes
Get ready for an experience of a lifetime and a bucket list item in Peru: Machu Picchu!
This morning, board a 1st class car on the 360° Machu Picchu train towards Aguas Calientes. This train offers one of the most scenic rides you’ve ever experienced thanks to its panoramic windows and observation carriage. Have your cameras handy as you travel along the Urubamba River and up, up, up into the Andes ascending into the clouds! Once you’ve reached the top, head to the Lost City of the Incas and the Machu Picchu ruins. Explore the ruins and terraces of Machu Picchu with your guide while learning about the history of this world wonder.
Afterward, catch the bus back into Aguas Calientes in time for lunch as a group, and then, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure in this beautiful town. Most travelers to Machu Picchu take the train back down after their visit, but you will relax in an awe-inspiring hotel floating among the clouds between the Andes and the Amazon Basin.
Dinner will be as a group tonight at the hotel.
*Note: The Machu Picchu train does not allow any check-in-sized luggage. You will need to pack an overnight bag for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. You can bring a backpack weighing no more than 8 kg (17 lbs) with dimensions of no more 46 linear inches/118 linear cm (height + length + width). Your main luggage will be safely stored in Ollantaytambo and will be picked up the next day.
Included :
- Transfers: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (approximately 2 hours by 360º Machu Picchu train and bus)
- Activities: Machu Picchu private guided tour; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
NEXT DAY Day 8 : Cusco
You’ll have the option to head back to Machu Picchu for an early morning visit at your leisure without the guide if you wish.* Alternatively, you can sleep in and relax at the hotel.
Later in the morning, depart to Ollantaytambo as you hop back on the 360º Machu Picchu train and enjoy the views on the way down as you bid farewell to Machu Picchu. Then, return to the beautiful city of Cusco with a stop for lunch at an old colonial house, located in the middle of the valley and surrounded by stunning mountains and beautiful greenery.
In the afternoon, there’ll be an interactive workshop to learn how to make your own chocolate straight from cocoa beans with cocoa experts. Learn all the secrets of chocolate and its use in the Maya culture and also create your own edible souvenir to take home! The rest of the evening is free in Cusco.
*NOTE: The 2nd Machu Picchu visit is an optional activity and requires advanced booking. When reserving your spot on the trip, you will be asked if you would like to participate. This activity costs $90 USD and includes round-trip transport.
Included :
- Transfers: Aguas Calientes – Cusco (approximately 3.5 hours by 360º Machu Picchu train & bus)
- Activities: Cocoa workshop and Chocolate museum; Free time
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
- Optional activities: 2nd Machu Picchu morning visit
NEXT DAY Day 9 : Lima
Catch a flight back to Lima this morning. Upon arrival in Lima, you will have some free time to explore the city some more or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. We recommend Larcomar, considered the coolest place to shop in Lima and built into the side of a cliff. It is a great place to visit even if you’re not into shopping. From there, you can continue to Lima’s boardwalk for an enchanting stroll along the coastline. If you haven’t had enough of Peru’s tasty street food yet, head to the trendy Mercado 28 to check out its modern outdoor food court full of delicious fusion options.
At the end of the day, come together one last time for a farewell dinner in town.
Included :
- Transfers: Cusco – Lima (approximately 2 hours by plane)
- Activities: Free time; Farewell dinner
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 10 : Lima Departure
Depending on your flight time, you will have free time on your own in Lima before catching your flight back home.
Included :
- Activities: Free time; Departure (at your own expense)
- Meals: Breakfast
*Itinerary is subject to change.
NEXT DAY 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.

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.
Some of the hotels on this trip offer laundry services for a fee.
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.
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!
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.
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.
We offer private tours to Peru depending on the size of the group and availability.
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.

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