Peru’s Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley

TYPE OF TRAVEL/DISTANCE: You will travel by foot as you explore the wonders of Peruvian culture. Transportation to and from accommodations will be provided by train or van–no llamas!

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: No previous experience is necessary, however the elevation and uneven terrain make this trip a bit more difficult. The good news is there are always activity options.

WEATHER: Temperatures between October and November can range from 43°F at night to 68°F during the during the day in the mountains. Rainfall varies and you should expect some rain throughout your trip.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 8 to 12 participants, plus one Wilderness Inquiry staff, and one local guide while in Peru. Each group consists of people of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities, including people with disabilities.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Throughout the trip we will be staying in great local hotels, bed & breakfasts, and a guesthouse. Typically there are 2 people per room, matched by gender or requests to room together. In most rooms, solo travelers have single beds and couples share beds. We make every effort to ensure privacy and cleanliness.

SINGLE TRAVELERS: If you are traveling alone you will feel at home with a welcoming group. If you would like to have your own room throughout the trip you may purchase a single supplement for an additional fee. Please email or call us if you would like this option.

MEALS: Enjoy typical Peruvian fare, including fresh fish, chicken, corn, and potatoes. Most meals are included, but there are one or two that are not. Bottled water is recommended and readily available. We’ll enjoy happy hours, but the purchase of alcoholic beverages is not included in the trip fees. We will visit a Chicaria to sample the best of this ancient local beverage.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: You will need to provide your personal clothing and gear which is outlined in the packing list.

COVID POLICY: We continue to monitor and update our COVID-19 policies. Wilderness Inquiry strongly encourages everyone to be fully up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination and take other necessary steps for the health and wellness of all. We ask you to self-screen for any signs of illness prior to your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness. We will also continue to follow all guidance and requirements of locations that we travel, keeping in mind some international destinations do require vaccinations and/or negative covid tests. We will update this policy as new information and guidance becomes available. 

SAFETY WHILE ON TRAIL:  Though not required, some individuals may choose to wear a mask, and we expect all participants to respect this choice. Please ensure proper hygiene including, but not limited to, hand-washing and/or sanitizing before eating and after using the restroom. Individuals who become ill or test positive for COVID-19 during a Wilderness Inquiry experience will be isolated to the best of the group’s ability and are responsible for their own transportation and expenses to depart the trip.

Situated on the western side of South America, Peru contains part of the Andes mountain range and the Amazon Rainforest. It also features a beautiful coastline to the Pacific Ocean. The country is bordered by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and Chile to the south. The main attractions are archaeological remains, local cuisine, colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural resources.

With more than 5,000 years of human habitation, Peru is rich with historical remains of civilizations past. From the geoglyphs of the Nazca lines to the reed islands of Lake Titicaca, the remnants of ancient livelihoods are abundant. The diversity of Peru’s people and cultures are also seen in the country’s music, art, and lively festivals.

Peru is rich in wildlife diversity and is one of the few places on earth considered to be ‘megadiverse’. With over 1,800 species of birds, 500 species of mammals, and 300 species of reptiles, there is an abundance of wildlife. The Amazon basin is home to pink dolphins, jaguars, giant river otters, primates, 4,000 types of butterflies, and one-third of the world’s 8,600 bird species. The highlands boast llama, alpaca, spectacled bear, and mountain tapir. Along the coast, sea lions, seals, penguins, and birds can be spotted.

The cuisine of Peru is unlike anywhere else. In addition to indigenous practices and ingredients, the cuisine has been Influenced by Asian and Spanish cultures. Ingredients are fresh and often local. Expect dishes made with potatoes (which originated here), quinoa (an ancient Inca grain), fresh seafood, and rice. Each area of the country has something unique to offer.

After the Spanish conquest in the 1500s, many areas in Peru saw a colonial influence on indigenous architecture. Cusco is one of the best examples of this, featuring large adorned churches amidst ancient stone walls.