Aguas Calientes (Peru) | Cusco (Peru) | Lima (Peru) | Ollantaytambo (Peru)
The following are Solo-Ish Peru tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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Enjoy an included transfer to the start hotel where you will be able to get settled and freshen up before attending a welcome briefing in the evening. Afterwards, opt to grab dinner in Lima with your fellow travellers and get to know everyone a bit more over some delicious local fare.
It's highly recommended for travellers to book pre-nights in Lima so they are able to become acquainted with this pulsing city before the adventure inland begins. An activity in the area you could book ahead of time is the Lima city tour.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Enter the Barranco neighbourhood in Lima, known as the SoHo of the city. This hip area is adorned with colourful street art, tucked-away bars and coffee shops, old mansions, museums, mouth watering food, and plenty of bohemian vibes. Cross one of the most famous landmarks in the area, the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), and make a wish. It's said that if you hold your breath until making it across the 100-ft long wooden bridge, then your wish will come true. After your CEO-led walking tour, the group will visit the local market to learn about and taste different native fruits, before the included cooking experience. Here, the group will learn from an expert Lima chef how to prepare two of the most representative dishes in all of Peruvian cuisine, ceviche and causa. In this intimate setting witness how the sharing of food has the power to bring strangers from all over the world a bit closer. The remainder of the afternoon and evening will be free for optional activities in the area.
Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Join your fellow Solo-ish travellers in an immersive cooking class with an expert local chef at a renowned traditional restaurant in the city. Start by taking on the Barranco district of Lima by foot! Put on your walking shoes, hit the pavement and wander Barranco's bohemian streets where you can find street paintings, graffiti, art galleries, museums, and rich architecture while you CEO tells you more about the area's historical and cultural significance. Then, get ready to try different flavours on a visit to a local market to taste different local fruits and produce. Then learn from a chef and his team about how to prepare the two most representative dishes of Peruvian gastronomy, Ceviche and Causa. The group will also have the opportunity to try "Chicha Morada" a traditional drink from Peru prepared with a base of purple corn. Ceviche is made from fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice and spice with chili peppers, red onions, and other local spices. Cause is traditionally made with yellow potato, lemon, boiled egg, yellow chili pepper, black olives, and avocado for the stuffing.
Today is all about Peru's highlands in the Andes. First, enjoy breakfast at the hotel in Lima before boarding your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival the group will transfer to Chinchero in the province of Urubamba. This town is flanked by the large snow-capped mountains and brings together 12 Andean indigenous communities. Those who live here are dedicated to preserving the cultivation of native species, livestock, and the protection of their traditional ways of life. Sit down together for a group lunch at a local restaurant dedicated to generating development opportunities for the immediate environment and community. Finish the day at the hotel property in the Sacred Valley where you will have free time to be as social or solo as you please.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. There will be stops along the way to break up the journey between Cusco and Ollantaytambo.
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Incas today. Depart the Cusco airport for the Sacred Valley. Sit down for lunch at a delicious local spot and learn from your CEO about how the Incas built an impressive network of platforms and roads surrounding the once magnificent Tupac Yupanqui Palace before it was burned down in the mid-16th century to keep the Spanish from gaining supplies. Today, Chinchero is the main attraction. Visit the textile centre after lunch and gain an appreciation of how present members of the local indigenous community are working hard to preserve the traditions and history of their ancestors through the creation of beautiful items.
Enjoy some free time towards upon arrival to the hotel in Ollantaytambo to unwind and recharge after a jam-packed travel day full of activities.
Prepare to experience what G Adventures does best and enjoy an epic day in the Sacred Valley with a surprise G twist occurring somewhere along the way. Witness how tourism can change lives for the better with a stop at Cuyo Chico, a local pottery making community in a rural village where groups of families support themselves by making traditional adobe ceramic crafts. During your time here, learn about the ceramics process, the materials they use from their natural surroundings, and take in the stunning views of the nearby Pisac Ruins. Enjoy a guided tour of the ruins and later, sit down for a lunch featuring traditionally prepared Peruvian food staples at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant. The best part? Proceeds from this meal go directly back into this remote community allowing them to preserve their traditional ways of life.
With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to an 11. Start in the rural village of Cuyo Chico in the Sacred Valley, where a group of families joined together to create a small business based on their traditional adobe ceramic crafts. Learn about the ceramics process as well as the traditional adobe brick-making that forms the basis of houses throughout the valley, all while taking in a spectacular view of the Pisac Ruins. After the demonstration, peruse the items for sale directly from the artisans in their shop. Then, tour the fascinating hilltop citadel of Pisac, an Incan ruin with plunging gorges, a ceremonial centre, and winding agriculture terracing that's still in use today amid sweeping green valleys and mountain peaks. Explore the back of the site to see a pocketed cliff across Kitamayo Gorge, which once contained hundreds of Inca tombs. Attend Parwa restaurant for a traditional lunch amid this unique community setting and be on the lookout for your surprise G twist.
Contribute to sustainable tourism in Huchuy Qosqo, a small village of 65 families in the Sacred Valley, by eating at the Parwa Community Restaurant. Learn how the resident-run restaurant was kickstarted by G Adventures and the Multilateral Investment Fund, to become a successful farm-to-table program that boosts the local economy and several spin-off microenterprises.
Travel deeper into the surrounding landscapes on a journey by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Pass through the spectacular Urubamba Valley on the winding tracks, taking in the changing landscapes and small farms along the way and arrive at this village nestled between the mist-covered hills. The remainder of the afternoon and evening will be free for you to explore a bit on your own, and opt in for one of the activities offered locally in the area. We think a nice long soak in the natural hot springs is just what you need to relax before tomorrow's big reveal of the 'Lost City of the Incas'.
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Opt to visit the local market, the botanical garden, and the Mandor waterfalls or soak in the hot springs. If you're feeling adventurous you can pre-book the 1-day Inca trail for this day.
Breakfast is essential for this jam-packed day to visit the 'Lost City'. In the morning, board the bus from Aguas Calientes up the winding roads to the entrance of Machu Picchu and set off with a local guide to fully explore and appreciate this impressive, UNESCO World Heritage site. Travel back to Aguas Calientes and find a fun spot for lunch on your own. Later, return by train to Ollantaytambo before a private vehicle transfer back to Cusco arriving in the evening. Dinner will be at your leisure and there's plenty of great spots in the central part of the city that are the perfect vibe after a full day of adventure.
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Set off with the local guide to explore Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Learn about the history and gain insights into this massive mountaintop citadel while wandering through ancient dwellings, stone temples and along sculpted terraces. Feel the energy of this 15th-century site, now both a UNESCO World Heritage site and voted one of the new Seven Wonders of the World in a worldwide internet poll.
The key to a well-rounded solo experience is time to do your own thing. It's built in here with a free day in Cusco that belongs entirely to you. Choose to visit a nearby archaeological site, or treat yourself to pampering with a massage. Your CEO will be leading a walk to the San Blas neighbourhood of the city, known for its historical importance after the arrival of the Spaniards in Cusco, as well as the Sapantiana Colonia Aqueduct. Choose to join, or continue exploring the city at the heart of Incan culture on your own.
Opt to visit and hike the famed Rainbow Mountain, pre-book on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for a memorable activity, or take the time for yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.
Begin your final day in Cusco with a walk to Koricancha with your CEO and group. This beautiful site is one of the most important and sacred temples of the Inca empire. Enter the space whose name roughly translates to, "Walls of Gold" and admire the mix of Indigenous and colonial architecture of this temple on the hill overlooking the bustling Avenida el Sol below. Afterwards, walk along the cobble-stoned streets to the San Pedro Market, the city's oldest main food hub and shopping area. As your CEO takes you through to various stalls you will experience the true aromas, sounds, and tastes of the city. Sample a variety of traditional fresh products harvested from throughout the region including, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and sweets. The remainder of the day is free to explore as you choose. There's much to do and little time, but we know you will find something to make your solo heart soar. Gather in the evening for an optional final meal together to cap of this Peruvian solo-ish adventure.
Visit Koricancha with your CEO and group. This beautiful site is one of the most important and sacred temples of the Inca empire. Learn more about this beautiful space as you wander through the grand architecture and look out over the city perched below and the rising hills in the distance.
Take in the sights and smells of the sprawling San Pedro market and try out a glass of fresh fruit juice from one of the stalls along with other regional specialties as your CEO helps you navigate the hustle and bustle.
Head out and explore. Free time is yours to use how you want on this final afternoon in Cusco.
You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Solo-Ish Peru tour:
Aguas Calientes, Peru
Av. Regional Nº 998
Cusco, Peru
Av. 28 de Julio 1088
Miraflores
Lima, Peru
Quinta Cruz esquina s/n
Cusco
Ollantaytambo, Peru
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Solo-Ish Peru tour:
Max 16, avg 14
Your G for Good Moment: Parwa Community Pachamanca, Valle SagradoYour Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupDinner Party: Lima Cooking Class - Ceviche & Causa, LimaWe Day: The Heart of the Sacred Valley, CuscoG Day: History & Culture of the Sacred Valley, OllantaytamboMe Day: Cusco Me Day, Cusco. Complimentary arrival transfer. Sacred Valley guided tour. Pottery making demonstration. Train to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu guided tour. Free time in Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Lima, and Cusco. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Partake in an immersive cooking class in a trendy Lima neighborhood, Spend a rich cultural day in the Sacred Valley and visit various local communities, Travel through the mountains by train to Machu Picchu and learn about the history of the Incas, Visit the mystical Aguas Calientes and choose to relax your body in the warm steaming waters of the thermal springs
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Lima- Lima City Tour (40USD per person)Aguas Calientes- Hot Springs Visit (6USD per person)Inca Trail- One-Day Inca Trail HikeCusco- Cusco Tourist Ticket (130PEN per person)- Inka Museum (10PEN per person)- Cusco City Tour (45PEN per person)- Rainbow Mountain Hike - Full-day Trip
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (8 nts) on a twinshare basis. If you are interested in purchasing your own room, please see below for the My Own Room option.
8 breakfasts, 3 lunches
Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however this may vary depending on the city. Should breakfast not be included, your CEO can suggest some local options. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. While trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients.For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
G Adventures Representatives in Lima and Cusco, specialist Inca Trail CEO (Chief Experience Officer) for Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Public bus, train, private vehicle, plane, walking.
Machu Picchu regulations require all visitors to follow a pre-determined circuit within the site as a way to prevent overcrowding. The circuit-specific entrance tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. At the time of booking, you may select your preferred circuit, subject to availability. If no selection is made, we will book a circuit based on availability at the time of booking. All circuits offer the opportunity to enjoy the beauty, history, and impressive ingenuity of this ancient site. TO NOTE: Travellers completing the Inca trail and 1-day Inca Trail will be assigned Circuit 3 for their guided visit of Machu Picchu, but will also have access to the panoramic viewpoint upon arrival via the Sun Gate.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested)o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking bootso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.If at the end of your trek you felt your trekking guide and support team did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline, we suggest each hiker contributes the following to a collective pool. Inca Trail:Head guide: 15-30 USDAssistant guide: 10-20 USDYour trekking crew: 40 USDLares Trek:Head guide: 15-30 USDAssistant guide: 5-15 USDYour trekking crew: 35 USDAlso at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.