Overview
Peru: Machu Picchu & the Last Incan Bridges
South America
10 days
9 nights
14 people
Moderate
History & Culture
Trace the living legacy of the Incan Empire as you journey to the spectacular ruins at Machu Picchu and visit one of the last Incan Rope Bridges. In Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, delve into the enduring Inca influences on modern Peruvian culture. You’ll soar above the mysterious Nazca Lines etched in the desert, feel the morning mist as you walk the Inca Trail, and get to know local artisans during a weaving workshop. Along the way, you'll taste the bright flavors of Peru’s distinctive cuisine paired with local wines and pisco.
Hidden Wonders: Visit the Mercado de Brujas in Lima, a market for witches hidden inside a train station.
Travel with Purpose: Visit one of the last remaining Incan rope bridges, helping to support the preservation of an endangered, centuries-old tradition.
Highlights
- Take a panoramic train ride to the famed Inca Trail and discover magical Machu Picchu.
- Have a go at deciphering the mysteries of the storied Nazca Lines from the air.
- Explore Islas de Ballestas, a biodiverse set of islands known as the Peruvian Galapagos.
- Unlock the secrets of Peruvian cuisine via a hands-on cookery class.
- Cross Apurimac Canyon on one of the last handwoven Incan bridges, once part of the ancient Incan Superhighway.
- Visit the Mercado de Brujas in Lima, a market for witches hidden inside a train station.
Discover Inca Wonders.
Day 1
Witches’ Brews & Divine Cocktails
Welcome to Lima! Your exploration of the ‘City of Kings’ begins with a jaunt through the snake-oil spectacle of the Mercado de Brujas, a real-life ‘witches market.’ You’ll get familiarized with the city on a guided tour of Central Lima, wandering vibrant streets filled with ornate colonial mansions, palaces and churches towards Plaza Mayor, the historic center of the city. Among the landmarks you’ll see is the increasingly unwelcomed statue of the city’s founder: Francisco Pizzaro. Enjoy a memorable welcome dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, which offers fabulous views of mystical pre-Incan ruins.
Witches’ Brews & Divine Cocktails
Welcome to Lima! Your exploration of the ‘City of Kings’ begins with a jaunt through the snake-oil spectacle of the Mercado de Brujas, a real-life ‘witches market.’ You’ll get familiarized with the city on a guided tour of Central Lima, wandering vibrant streets filled with ornate colonial mansions, palaces and churches towards Plaza Mayor, the historic center of the city. Among the landmarks you’ll see is the increasingly unwelcomed statue of the city’s founder: Francisco Pizzaro. Enjoy a memorable welcome dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, which offers fabulous views of mystical pre-Incan ruins.
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Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
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Brunch, Welcome Dinner
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Special note
Since most international flights arrive into Lima very late in the evening/early morning, Atlas Obscura has included and pre-booked the night before your trip at your Lima hotel. Please take this into consideration when making your flight arrangements.
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Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
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Brunch, Welcome Dinner
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Special note
Day 2
Gigantic Mysterious Glyphs
After some breakfast, set south on a drive to Paracas. Today's first adventure is by boat to the Islas de Ballestas, a biodiverse set of islands known as the Peruvian Galapagos. Here you might catch a glimpse of Peruvian pelicans, Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, Peruvian boobies, and turkey vultures, amongst other impressive creatures. Next, you’ll examine the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious prehistoric geoglyph etched into petrified sand, then after a spot of lunch, take off over the Nazca Lines to view these vast, mysterious, ancient works of land art. No one knows where these sprawling glyphs came from or how on earth people were able to design them millennia before air travel existed! Enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
Gigantic Mysterious Glyphs
After some breakfast, set south on a drive to Paracas. Today's first adventure is by boat to the Islas de Ballestas, a biodiverse set of islands known as the Peruvian Galapagos. Here you might catch a glimpse of Peruvian pelicans, Humboldt penguins, Inca terns, Peruvian boobies, and turkey vultures, amongst other impressive creatures. Next, you’ll examine the Paracas Candelabra, a mysterious prehistoric geoglyph etched into petrified sand, then after a spot of lunch, take off over the Nazca Lines to view these vast, mysterious, ancient works of land art. No one knows where these sprawling glyphs came from or how on earth people were able to design them millennia before air travel existed! Enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
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Aranwa Paracas Resort & Spa Hotel, or similar, Paracas
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Aranwa Paracas Resort & Spa Hotel, or similar, Paracas
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Where the Desert Meets the Sea
This morning, we'll make our way to Paracas Reserve, where the vast, arid desert meets the sea in dramatic fashion. With its high, crumbling cliffs towering above the crashing waves of the Pacific, the coastline here is both spectacular and ecologically important—a unique habitat for the abundant marine and coastal wildlife that's found here. During our visit, we'll see some of the reserve's most beautiful beaches including Yumaque, striking for its vibrant red sand. After a delicious lunch on Paracas Bay, return to town for some wine- and pisco-tasting at one of South America's oldest wineries. Return to Lima and enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner in a restaurant with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
Where the Desert Meets the Sea
This morning, we'll make our way to Paracas Reserve, where the vast, arid desert meets the sea in dramatic fashion. With its high, crumbling cliffs towering above the crashing waves of the Pacific, the coastline here is both spectacular and ecologically important—a unique habitat for the abundant marine and coastal wildlife that's found here. During our visit, we'll see some of the reserve's most beautiful beaches including Yumaque, striking for its vibrant red sand. After a delicious lunch on Paracas Bay, return to town for some wine- and pisco-tasting at one of South America's oldest wineries. Return to Lima and enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner in a restaurant with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
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Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Antigua Miraflores, or similar, Lima
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Village Life in the Sacred Valley
After a quick flight from Lima to Cusco, journey into the Sacred Valley, a verdant region rich with archeological sites and Incan village markets. Get an insider’s perspective on a town known for its fabric dyeing and textile weaving; a private weaving workshop will reveal techniques rarely seen outside the Valley. After a magical morning, you’ll head straight for El Mirador, a stunning vantage point for high-altitude views of the dramatic landscapes below. After lunch, check out the town of Pisac and wander through the local market, known for its multi-coloured textiles, local foods, and indigenous clothing - a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and take some great photos. Head back to your hotel for dinner.
Village Life in the Sacred Valley
After a quick flight from Lima to Cusco, journey into the Sacred Valley, a verdant region rich with archeological sites and Incan village markets. Get an insider’s perspective on a town known for its fabric dyeing and textile weaving; a private weaving workshop will reveal techniques rarely seen outside the Valley. After a magical morning, you’ll head straight for El Mirador, a stunning vantage point for high-altitude views of the dramatic landscapes below. After lunch, check out the town of Pisac and wander through the local market, known for its multi-coloured textiles, local foods, and indigenous clothing - a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and take some great photos. Head back to your hotel for dinner.
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Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Discoveries and Spirituality of the Inca
Start the morning by learning firsthand about some of the greatest discoveries of the ancient Incas. You’ll marvel at the rosy earth tones of the Salt Pans of Maras, colorful, open salt mines that have been in use since the Incan Empire. Head to the beautiful lagoon of Piuray, for an Andean picnic lunch, on the shores of the lagoon. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo and visit the ancient, experimental, terraced farm of Moray. Then, find out where the Sacred Valley gets its name when you join local shamans for a spiritual ceremony to make an offering to Pachamama, Mother Earth.
Discoveries and Spirituality of the Inca
Start the morning by learning firsthand about some of the greatest discoveries of the ancient Incas. You’ll marvel at the rosy earth tones of the Salt Pans of Maras, colorful, open salt mines that have been in use since the Incan Empire. Head to the beautiful lagoon of Piuray, for an Andean picnic lunch, on the shores of the lagoon. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo and visit the ancient, experimental, terraced farm of Moray. Then, find out where the Sacred Valley gets its name when you join local shamans for a spiritual ceremony to make an offering to Pachamama, Mother Earth.
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Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
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Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
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Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, or similar, Sacred Valley
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Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Setting Off on the Inca Trail
As dawn rises over the Andes, take a panoramic train ride to one of the world’s most incredible hikes: the famed Inca Trail. Along the path, you’ll pass various archeological wonders and breathtaking views, such as the Urubamba River valley vista and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. The highlight is Winay Wayna, a set of stunning 15th century ruins named for the orchids that dot the landscape. Stopping for picnic lunch. Continuing on, stand in awe at your first glimpses of Machu Picchu as you descend, arriving at the “old mountain” just before sunset after most visitors have already departed. Take your time enjoying the complex in peace and quiet.
Setting Off on the Inca Trail
As dawn rises over the Andes, take a panoramic train ride to one of the world’s most incredible hikes: the famed Inca Trail. Along the path, you’ll pass various archeological wonders and breathtaking views, such as the Urubamba River valley vista and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. The highlight is Winay Wayna, a set of stunning 15th century ruins named for the orchids that dot the landscape. Stopping for picnic lunch. Continuing on, stand in awe at your first glimpses of Machu Picchu as you descend, arriving at the “old mountain” just before sunset after most visitors have already departed. Take your time enjoying the complex in peace and quiet.
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El Mapi by Inkaterra, or similar, Aguas Calientes
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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El Mapi by Inkaterra, or similar, Aguas Calientes
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Unlock The Secrets of Machu Picchu
Today you will fully explore a true wonder of the world with a knowledgeable host who will unlock the secrets of this archeological paradise. Machu Picchu seems impossible. How was it built in 15th century Peru, especially at a staggering 7,000 feet of elevation? With more than 150 buildings ranging from temples to bathhouses and sanctuaries, and over 100 hand-crafted staircases, it truly has to be seen to be believed. After hours of exploration, you’ll glide back to Cusco aboard the Vistadome train, taking in panoramic views of the Andes. Reflect on the incredible day you’ve just had with your co-travelers during dinner at a sustainable restaurant that supports local producers.
Unlock The Secrets of Machu Picchu
Today you will fully explore a true wonder of the world with a knowledgeable host who will unlock the secrets of this archeological paradise. Machu Picchu seems impossible. How was it built in 15th century Peru, especially at a staggering 7,000 feet of elevation? With more than 150 buildings ranging from temples to bathhouses and sanctuaries, and over 100 hand-crafted staircases, it truly has to be seen to be believed. After hours of exploration, you’ll glide back to Cusco aboard the Vistadome train, taking in panoramic views of the Andes. Reflect on the incredible day you’ve just had with your co-travelers during dinner at a sustainable restaurant that supports local producers.
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Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
The Disappearing Incan Superhighway
Not all Incan legacies endure as well as Machu Picchu’s stone ruins. Handmade rope bridges suspended across rivers and chasms were once a vital part of a vast network of pathways, the Incan superhighway Qhapaq Nan. The village of Q’eswachaka keeps this tradition alive. During your visit, admire the surprising strength of one of the last Incan rope bridges. Forged from grass and straw, the community here crafts the entire bridge by hand. Next, you’ll visit four picturesque lagoons called Pampamarca, Oscoqocha, Acopía and Pomacanchi, and stop to enjoy an al fresco lunch amongst remarkable flora and regional fauna. Later, the evening is yours to explore Cusco, the cultural heart of Peru.
The Disappearing Incan Superhighway
Not all Incan legacies endure as well as Machu Picchu’s stone ruins. Handmade rope bridges suspended across rivers and chasms were once a vital part of a vast network of pathways, the Incan superhighway Qhapaq Nan. The village of Q’eswachaka keeps this tradition alive. During your visit, admire the surprising strength of one of the last Incan rope bridges. Forged from grass and straw, the community here crafts the entire bridge by hand. Next, you’ll visit four picturesque lagoons called Pampamarca, Oscoqocha, Acopía and Pomacanchi, and stop to enjoy an al fresco lunch amongst remarkable flora and regional fauna. Later, the evening is yours to explore Cusco, the cultural heart of Peru.
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Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
The Timeless Splendor of Cusco
Spend the day enjoying Cusco’s vibrant culture. Stops at the Museo de la Coca and the Cusco Cathedral’s dazzling golden altar present two different sides of this historic city. You’ll also see the façade of the Qoricancha temple, considered the most sacred Inca building in Cusco. A mouth-watering lunch in one of the city’s town squares awaits. Just outside of town are a few of the last sites you can’t leave Peru without seeing: the humbling 200-ton monoliths of Sacsayhuaman, the geometrical genius of The Twelve-Angled Stone, and the bathhouse ruins of Tambomachay. End your day with a delicious farewell dinner in the grounds of the Pre-Columbian Art Museum.
The Timeless Splendor of Cusco
Spend the day enjoying Cusco’s vibrant culture. Stops at the Museo de la Coca and the Cusco Cathedral’s dazzling golden altar present two different sides of this historic city. You’ll also see the façade of the Qoricancha temple, considered the most sacred Inca building in Cusco. A mouth-watering lunch in one of the city’s town squares awaits. Just outside of town are a few of the last sites you can’t leave Peru without seeing: the humbling 200-ton monoliths of Sacsayhuaman, the geometrical genius of The Twelve-Angled Stone, and the bathhouse ruins of Tambomachay. End your day with a delicious farewell dinner in the grounds of the Pre-Columbian Art Museum.
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Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Antigua Casona San Blas, or similar, Cusco
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Tupananchiskama!
Today we say goodbye. You’ll be guided to the airport, or set off to further explore more of Peru on your own.
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Breakfast
What is included?
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Accommodations throughout the trip.
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Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
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Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers and internal flights.
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Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
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AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
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Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
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All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
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Flights to and from destination.
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Pre/Post trip accommodations.
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Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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Visas and passport fees.
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Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
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AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of this trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of this trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $780 USD per person
2025 departures: $765 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $780 USD per person
2025 departures: $765 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
Four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs. Our trip will gradually go up in elevation, starting in the Sacred Valley, which sits at an elevation of approximately 8,000ft (2,440m). We then make our way to Machu Picchu, which sits at an elevation of 7,874ft (2,430 m) and end in Cusco at the highest elevation on the tour at 11,152 feet (3,399 m).
The short Inca trail trek included in the program is approximately 8 miles (13km) and 5-6 hours in duration. This is a moderate to difficult hike due to its exposed, rocky terrain and high altitude. The first leg of the hike will be approximately 3 hours and a steady climb to reach Wiñay Wayna. From here, the trail continues through woodlands and includes a river/stream crossing before it begins its final ascent to the Sun Gate or entrance to Machu Picchu. There will be porters to assist along the way.
Activity Level
Four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs. Our trip will gradually go up in elevation, starting in the Sacred Valley, which sits at an elevation of approximately 8,000ft (2,440m). We then make our way to Machu Picchu, which sits at an elevation of 7,874ft (2,430 m) and end in Cusco at the highest elevation on the tour at 11,152 feet (3,399 m).
The short Inca trail trek included in the program is approximately 8 miles (13km) and 5-6 hours in duration. This is a moderate to difficult hike due to its exposed, rocky terrain and high altitude. The first leg of the hike will be approximately 3 hours and a steady climb to reach Wiñay Wayna. From here, the trail continues through woodlands and includes a river/stream crossing before it begins its final ascent to the Sun Gate or entrance to Machu Picchu. There will be porters to assist along the way.
Luggage Restrictions
Your domestic flight from Lima to Cusco has a luggage limit of one piece of checked luggage not exceeding 23kg / 50 pounds.
For your Inca trail hike, you are asked to bring a day bag including a change of clothes and toiletries for your overnight in Aguas Calientes. We will have porters to assist in carrying your belongings along the trek. Your primary luggage will be transferred from the Sacred Valley to Cusco and securely stored at our hotel.
Luggage Restrictions
Your domestic flight from Lima to Cusco has a luggage limit of one piece of checked luggage not exceeding 23kg / 50 pounds.
For your Inca trail hike, you are asked to bring a day bag including a change of clothes and toiletries for your overnight in Aguas Calientes. We will have porters to assist in carrying your belongings along the trek. Your primary luggage will be transferred from the Sacred Valley to Cusco and securely stored at our hotel.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 10 a.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 10. Lima International Airport (LIM) connects to a range of flight hubs in Latin American and North America. The best flight connections to Lima are offered by LATAM Airlines and American Airlines. Since most international flights into Lima arrive late in the evening, a courtesy pre-night has been booked for all guests.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 10 a.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 10. Lima International Airport (LIM) connects to a range of flight hubs in Latin American and North America. The best flight connections to Lima are offered by LATAM Airlines and American Airlines. Since most international flights into Lima arrive late in the evening, a courtesy pre-night has been booked for all guests.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Q'eswachaka Rope Bridge Festival
Join our June departures and take part in the annual Q'eswachaka Bridge Festival. Experience first hand as Quechua communities gather on the banks of the Apurimac River to rebuild the last Incan Rope bridge and then express gratitude to the mountain spirits with a celebration of music, traditional food and drinks.
*The festival normally takes place the second week of June annually, however the festival dates are subject to change without notice.
Q'eswachaka Rope Bridge Festival
Join our June departures and take part in the annual Q'eswachaka Bridge Festival. Experience first hand as Quechua communities gather on the banks of the Apurimac River to rebuild the last Incan Rope bridge and then express gratitude to the mountain spirits with a celebration of music, traditional food and drinks.
*The festival normally takes place the second week of June annually, however the festival dates are subject to change without notice.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Peru: Machu Picchu & the Last Incan Bridges? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.