Footprint Expeditions in South America

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Day 01 - Lima

Arrive in Lima at anytime throughout the day. Transportation is included from the airport to the corresponding hotel, and there are no activities planned for this day until our first welcome meeting in the late afternoon, most likely in the hotel lobby.

Lima is the largest city in Peru as well as is the capital of the country. Geographically located on the Pacific Coast, Lima is the 5th largest city in Latin America, following only Mexico City, São Paulo, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.

Lima was founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535, and was swiftly named La Ciudad de los Reyes, or "The City of the Kings." For three centuries it was considered the most important city in the Americas because the economical, social and political power that was centered there.  

Down town Lima is on the UNESCO list of cities granted with World Heritage status, using its historic wonder to make it a suggested region for travelers and visitors to Peru. The architecture in this part of Lima is characterized by a mix of styles. Take time to visit the Plaza de Armas, the San Franciscan Monastery, the Cathedral, and the Torre Tagle Palace, much of which are influenced by both the Spanish Baroque and Colonial periods. Lima is also home to the highest concentration of museums in the country, the most notable being: the National Museum, Larco Museum, and the Gold Museum, each containing exhibitions about pre-Columbian culture, art, history, and religion.

Lima has a plethora of culinary options, which can be seen in its title as the “Gastronomical Capital of the Americas”. There is a wonderful mixture of food genres here, with many Chinese, Andean, Japanese, and Amazonian. Also, Lima holds various Guinness World Records for the quality and diversity in the aspects of its culinary grandeur.

Day 02 - Paracas

This morning, there is sufficient time to go out and enjoy the city of Lima. Around mid day we will catch a local bus to begin to head south.  After three hours we will arrive at the coastal fishing town of El Chaco, located directly outside of the Paracas National Reserve. There are no planned activities for this afternoon, but feel free to enjoy a walk on the beach or watch the majestic sun slowing descend over the water. There are also plenty of quaint restaurants where you can try some local fresh fish and other sea food.

The Paracas National Reserve is located in Ica. Its main purpose is to preserve the sea’s ecosystems as they are and to protect the historical and cultural heritage of the Paracas Pre-Inca Culture.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 03 - Nazca

This morning we will take a tour to the Ballestas islands, which are two large rock formations shaped by wind, water, and time. These natural arch-like formations are the home to a variety of sea birds and sea lions that have set up colonies around the islands. Many times, it is possible to observe dolphins and Humboldt penguins in this area. After this excursion, we will head back to the main land to board our private bus which will take us to a small family winery where we will have the chance to learn how Pisco (Peru’s national liquor) and Peruvian wines are made.

After lunch, we will head to Huacachina Oasis. Take some time to relax around the oasis or, for the more adventurous, climb the highest sand dune only to ride back down on a sand board (similar to snow-boarding).  Around 4pm we will travel in sand dune buggies for a fun ride across the Ica desert until sunset. We will stay the night in the city of Nazca, located two hours away from the beautiful Oasis.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 04 - Night Bus

During the morning we will fly over the Nazca Lines. The price of the flight and the airport taxes are included. Around midday we will visit an ancestral Nazca cemetery located in the arid desert where we will discover how the ancient civilization who resided here persisted against the rough climate of the region. Then later in the night we will ride on a comfortable night bus to the city of Arequipa.

Nazca is the name of a system of valleys and deserts on the southern coast of Peru, and is also the name applied to the culture that flourished in this region between 300 BC and 800 AD. These people were responsible for the mysterious Nazca Lines, which were enormous drawings of animals, plants, and geometrical lines on the desert that only can be recognized from the air. Some famous figures in these lines are the monkey, spider, hummingbird, condor, lizard, etc.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 05, 07 - Arequipa – Colca Canyon

We will arrive to Arequipa early in the morning and check-in at the hotel.  There are no activities planned for this day.

Arequipa is surrounded by three famous volcanoes. El Misti, one of the infamous volcanoes, is known for its perfect cone shape and for the fact that during most of the year it is covered in snow. This city is the second largest of the country, and has a population of 1.2 million inhabitants. Arequipa lies at an altitude of 2,380 meters (7,800 feet) above sea level. The historic centre of Arequipa is also one of the World Heritage sites named by UNESCO in recognition of its history and colonial architecture. The city is also known for the color of the many interesting walls located throughout the city. The walls are made up of light, white bricks which are products of the naturally compressed volcanic ash.

Arequipa is also famous for its culinary attributes.  Take a moment to stop by one of the ¨Picanterias” or local restaurants and try their rich Peruvian dishes, some of them being: Rocoto Relleno (Stuffed Chili Peppers), Cuy Chactao (Deep Fried Guinea Pig), and Chicharron (Deep Fried Pork).

Although there is no pre-determined schedule today, we do have a few activities within the city to suggest. For example, stop by the Santa Catalina convent. This complex is considered a city within a city due to the extent of its size. It was founded in 1580, and at any given time there may have been at least 500 Sisters from the area staying there.  In 1970 it was opened to the public. Another suggested place of interest is The Museum Santuarios Andinos. This museum contains a famous exhibition of Juanita, named the” princess of the Andes¨. She was a young Inca girl that had been frozen for nearly 500 years when she was found on the summit of the Ampato volcano. She was the scientific proof needed to show that the Inca civilization did in fact perform human sacrifices.

After around five hours of driving through the Andes Mountains, we will arrive at this location, which is considered the second deepest Canyon in the world. Along the way we will spot some of the “camels of South America”: Llamas, Alpacas and Vicuñas. During the bus ride, we will also cross the highest pass of our trip, driving 4900 meters above sea level. In this point, we will witness the amazing Andean landscape of volcanoes and snow capped mountains. After arriving, we can relax in our beautiful lodge. At night, we can go for a swim in the natural hot springs of Chivay and enjoy a Pisco Sour in one of the many pools.

The canyon is shaped by hundreds of Inca terraces where mostly potatoes and Andean cereal crops are cultivated. The majority of these terraces are still used by local farmers. Remember: during this day we will reach the highest altitude of our trip where the weather can reach extremes of very sunny days and frigid nights. Be prepared for both, but also remember that this is also a prime opportunity to purchase an alpaca scarf or sweater for a great price.

Early in the morning we will head to the south bank of the canyon, crossing several small and picturesque villages along the way until we reach La Cruz del Condor. This outcrop is the nest of a large family of condors which can be seen gliding in and out of the canyon throughout the day. After this spectacular show of these animals in their natural habitat, we will take a hike along a section of the canyon enjoying the landscape and the fresh air. Take a bus ride back to Arequipa in the afternoon.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 08 - Cuzco

Flight to Cuzco,  located at 3316 meters above sea level. This famous city is the main destination for travelers in South America.

This ancient city has several impressive titles such as the “Navel of the World”, “Historical Capital of Peru”, is one of UNESCO’s sacred World Heritage cities, and is deemed the “Archeological Capital of the Americas”. These titles were earned due to the fact that Cuzco has a unique combination of cobble-stoned streets, Inca walls bordering most down town streets, colonial houses with Inca stones bases, churches centuries old, plazas, and Quechua speaking descendants. This cosmopolitan city also has great night life where you can meet people from every corner of the world.

One great site worth visiting is the Cathedral of Cuzco, located in the Main Square. It was founded in 1559 and took nearly one hundred years to build. It is the greatest repository of colonial arts and history in the city. Another recommended sight is the Qorikancha temple, considered the most important and most elaborate Inca building from that time with highly masterful stonework throughout.

The majority of the main Inca ruins are located right outside the city. For example, visit the megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman, or visit Qenqo, a limestone rock with dozens of carvings and niches used as a mummifying center. Or, just walk to the closest ruins of Tambomachay, a temple used for the worship of water. Tambomachay still has well preserved water channels and an ancient ceremonial bath place. This ruin is linked with the ruins of PukaPukara, only 300 meters away.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 09 - Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo

This morning we will head East to the Sacred Valley of the Incas,  stopping at  established viewpoints along the way to view both the luscious landscape and typical Andean crops of quinoa, kiwicha and potatoes. We will then have chance to visit the indigenous Andean Community of Ccaccaccollo, which is assisted and supported by our non-profit organization, OYE.  Here you will have the chance to learn the traditional customs of the people living in this area, and they will teach you the ancient weaving techniques that they have practiced for many centuries and continue to use today to support their community. Later in the morning we will head to Awanacancha, another great place to observe llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos.

Around mid day we will visit the Inca citadel of Pisac which is located directly above the town with the same name. The citadel is well known for the magnificent agricultural terraces and the Intihuatana (Hitching Post of the Sun) which we will learn more about in out visit. We will then descend to the colonial town below which is highly popular for its traditional market and traditionally elaborately dressed locals. This is a good place for shopping for handicrafts.

After a one hour drive we will arrive to the most preserved Inca town, Ollantaytambo.  This town is dominated by the presence of its ruins, the massive Fortress and Ceremonial Center, narrow, cobble-stoned, and perfectly lined streets. Interestingly enough, when viewed from above, the town has the shape of a corn husk, and the fortress the shape of a llama.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Days 10, 12 - Inca Trail

We will depart from Ollantaytambo driving alongside the Urubamba River until we arrive to the small town of Piscacucho. This is the check point where the most famous trek throughout the entire world begins. Our adventure will take four days and three nights in total.

This hike is for individuals with at least average physical fitness, with the total distance being hiked at 43 km. or 27 miles. The trail crosses valleys, mountains, three high passes, and on the second day, we will reach very high elevation hiking at 4200 meters above sea level (13769 feet) through Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman Pass). Visit the archeological site of Runkurakay, a semicircular ruin with a great view of the Paqaymayo valley. The third day we will hike a more gentle path heading uphill to cross the last High pass where we will then start descending to the ruins of Puyupatamarca (Town Above the Clouds). On clear days it is possible to see both the Urubamba valley and the Vilcabamba Mountain range with its beautiful snow covered peaks. Our last camp is close to the ruins of Wiñaywayna (Forever Young) which obtained this name due to the abundant orchid that blooms and grows here year round.

Our staff of professional guides, cooks, and porters will make sure this adventure is worry-free. Also, the camping gear provided is top quality. Our porters carry the majority of the gear, but please expect to carry a day back pack with your camera, snacks, rain coat and jacket.

Fact

The Inca Empire was originally linked by more than 40,000 kilometers (25,000miles) of trails, crossing deserts, mountains, and jungles.

Meals Included: Breakfasts (03)  Lunches (03)  Dinners (03).

Day 13 - Machu Picchu – Cuzco

We will rise very early in the morning and hike the last 7Km. (5miles) until we arrive at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) where we will have the once in a lifetime experience to watch the beams of the rising sun swim into every crevice of ancient Machu Picchu. Words will not be able to describe the beauty of the view ahead, and one will see the worth of all of the hard work put into the trek to get here. Also, during most of the year it is possible to overlook Machu Picchu while mist rises off of its regal structures while the sun comes up.

Visit Machu Picchu in a guided two hour tour of the most important temples and sectors of this great ruin. Then, later, explore and discover on your own the wonders of the Lost City of the Incas. Later this afternoon we will return to Cuzco by train and bus.

Machu Picchu was recently honored to be part of the New 7 wonders of the World, as well as, like many of our other destinations on this journey, is one of the top World Heritage cities on UNESCO’s prestigious list. Interestingly enough, it is not mentioned in any of the chronicles from Spanish colonialism. No one knows its function and even though it has been studied by scientists for decades, many unanswered questions remain. The town was forgotten for centuries and covered by rich vegetation until July 24th, 1911 when American historian Hiram Bingham was led by an 11 year old boy native to the site where he made the re-discovery of this phenomenal structure. It was all done on accident as Bingham was actually in search of the lost town of Vilcabamba.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Passengers who are either not interested or not able to the hike the Inca Trail can choose to spend 2 days in Cuzco and then travel by train to Aguas Calientes. The next morning they may take and early bus to the Machu Picchu entrance and meet the hikers at the ruins. Please advise your travel agent or Footprint Expeditions while booking if you decide to not hike the Inca Trail.

Also note that the Inca trail will be closed for general maintenance during the month of February every year. Also note that inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control may occur and the original itinerary might change.

Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Days 14, 15 - Tambopata Amazon Trip

Fly from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon Rainforest Basin. Travel by canoe to our lodge in the middle of the rainforest in the Tambopata National Reserve. The rainforest offers a mixture of river life, great jungle trekking, animal spotting, bird watching, as well as much exotic fauna and flora.

The flight lasts about 30 minutes originating in Cuzco, crossing the Eastern Andes Mountain Range, and landing in Puerto Maldonado. This is the most important city in the area and is situated at the confluence of the Tambopata and Madre Dios Rivers.  The main industrial activities of this area are Brazilian nut collecting, working with timber, agriculture, gold mining, and in the last years ecotourism has gained popularity.

We will head to the town’s river port and jump in a motorized canoe to navigate one of the most important rivers in the area. On our way to our lodge we will have the chance to spot river wild life like Flycatchers, Jabirus, Roadside Hawks, Capybaras, Macaws, Parrots, Turtles, and sometimes small Caimans. The large spectrum of animals and plants in this area include over 200 mammal species, 32  parrot species, 89 frog species, thousands of plants, four species of monkeys, many species of lizards, and more than 1300 bird species, just to name a few. Some of the most famous wild life in the are the Tapir, Ocelot, Harpy Eagle, Jaguar, Hoatzin, and Giant River Otters, some of which are especially difficult to spot.

The lodge is basic and makes for simple accommodation, but at the same time is comfortable. The cabins are made with eco friendly materials mimicking the native style of the region. Each room has two beds each with mosquito nets, flushable toilets, cold showers, and no electricity. The lodge staff is maid up mainly of locals who are trained to work in tourism, and who are also the best ones to show and teach you about their customs, traditions, medicinal plants, hunting and fishing techniques.
Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 2 Diners.

Day 16 - Cuzco

Fly back to Cuzco. Free day to relax or to keep exploring this city. There are several optional excursions available.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 17, 18 - Puno – Uros Floating Reed Islands

A seven hour bus journey will take us through the Vilcanota Valley and the Altiplano . Here, witness the birthplace of the Amazon River located between the cities of Cuzco and Puno.

The city of Puno sits here on the shores of this lake, which is also the highest navigable lake in the world measuring in at 3820 meters above sea level.

Visit the Floating Reed Islands of Uros, this is a group of artificial floating islands made with reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake. The reeds are fundamental resources for the life of Ureños (inhabitants of these islands) as they use them to build houses, boats, beds and even as food. Ask to take a traditional reed boat trip between the floating islands!

Later in the afternoon visit the Funeral Towers of Sillustani lays on the rolling hills of Lake Umayo Peninsula, at this inspiring location the ancient Collas built these towers to buried their nobilities and then later on the time the Incas improved the quality and magnificence. The cylindrical 12 meters towers, once housed the remains of entire family groups with it belongings and plenty food for their journey to the next world.

Also, remember to bring warm clothes as it is windy and cold on the lake. Expect cold weather at night round year.
Meals Included: Breakfast (02).

Day 19, 20 – Copacabana – Island of the Sun

Travel around the shores of the Lake Titicaca in a local bus to reach the small town of Yunguyo, transfer buses to cross the border to Bolivia to get to the picturesque and restful. The town is known for it lake views, Moorish Cathedral, pilgrimage destination and a base to visit the famous Isla del Sol y de la Luna.  Be prepared for a chilly weather round year.

Take a boat to the Island of the Sun, the legendary birthplace of Manco Ccapac and Mama Ocllo, the first Inca people, hike around the island looking for great views of the lake and the Inca ruins. Spent the night with a local family in a simple and basic accommodation, there are no electricity facilities and no hot shower. Next morning return back to mainland for a bus ride to La Paz city.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01) Lunch (01) Dinner (01).

Day 21 - La Paz

Arrive to La Paz in the afternoon, have some free to wonder around down town, or to do some last minute souvenirs shopping. Enjoy our farewell dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).

Day 22 - Departure day

There are no planned activities for today. Have a safe journey whether you are headed home or to explore another destination!
Meals Included: Breakfast (01).