Welcome to Peru! Arrive at any time today, and we will transfer you to your hotel. This evening is the welcome meeting and the chance to meet your fellow travellers. Overnight - Lima

Take the morning to explore Lima’s many museums or shop for local handicrafts at the Mercado Indio. This afternoon we take the bus 230km south to Pisco where this evening we sample the local brandy, which takes its name from the grapes produced in the region. Overnight - Pisco

If you are interested in bird life, rise early for our optional excursion to the Islas Ballestas. Often described as the ‘Poor Man’s Gallapagos’, the islands feature an abundance of birdlife, penguins and sea lions. En-route to Nazca, time is taken to check-out Ica, famous for its beaches, wineries and distilleries, as well as sandboarding in the tiny oasis of Huacachina. Overnight - Nazca

Part of the coastal desert, Nazca is the site of one of the world’s greatest unexplained mysteries - the Nazca Lines – a flight over is recommended (weather permitting). We visit the fascinating Chauchilla Cemetery, which hold mummies, dating from AD 1000. This evening we take the overnight bus to Arequipa. Overnight - Nazca

Situated in a fertile valley, the city is based around the colonial Plaza Des Arms. Have a coffee overlooking Arequipa’s main square and soak up the atmosphere. For those interested in colonial architecture or ecclesiastical churches, join the optional excursion to the faithfully restored Moasterio de Santa Catalin Overnight - Arequipa

On a rough and winding road we head towards the world’s second deepest canyon and make our way to Chivay. Our base for two nights, there is ample time to take short hikes and a dip in the hot springs, as well as touring the surrounding villages stopping often at miradors, hoping to spot Condors Overnight - Chivay

Fly to Cuzco and spend the remainder of the day acclimatising and soaking up the atmosphere of this colonial town. Choose to investigate the Sacred Valley, the local markets, museums or the cafés. On day 9, travel with our local guide through the Sacred Valley and visit ancient Inca sites, including the picturesque town and ruins of Ollantaytambo. Overnight - Cuzco

An early start, we travel this morning to km 82 and begin a once in a lifetime journey on the ancient trail of the Incas. Day 2 includes the highest point of the trail, and reaches 4200m. This is physically, the most demanding point; however, the views are spectacular! Local porters and guides ensure that the trip is worry-free, and fascinating ruins and spectacular mountain scenery fill every day of the hike. Overnight - Inca Trail (B:3, L:3, D:3)

On the final day, climb the steps to Intipunku, the 'Sun Gate', to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The feeling of achievement in the beautiful setting is amazing! After a guided tour of the Inca ruins and free time to explore, we return by train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy and will then be transferred by van to Cusco. Overnight - Cuzco

Catch your breath after the Inca Trail before you explore the many sights and sounds of Cuzco. Rafting, horseback riding and mountain biking are all possible options. Overnight - Cuzco

Enjoy the view on this full day of travel through the high Altiplano region as we travel from Cuzco to Puno. Look closely and you will be able to see the traditional clay bulls on roof tops used for protection and prosperity. Overnight - Puno

This morning we board a boat and head to Taquile Island for lunch in a local restaurant and the chance for some shopping in the local weaving cooperatives. From there we head to Amantani where overnight with a local family and enjoy typical music of the area. The following morning we will visit the floating islands of Uros en route to Puno.

Titicaca is the largest lake in the world above 2000m, and the views from both Amantaní and Taquile Islands are stunning. On our way to Taquile Island we pass the floating islands of the Uros people. The Uros began their unusual floating existence centuries ago in an effort to isolate themselves from the Colla and Inca tribes.

The Totora reeds that grow in the shallows of the lake are used for making everything from the islands themselves to the model boats that the islanders sell. The islands are made up of layers upon layers of reeds; as the layers closest to the water start to rot, they are replaced with fresh reeds on top. The reeds are also used to build their boats, which if constructed well will last up to 6 months. The people of Taquile Island's unique culture, style of dress and lifestyle make for a memorable visit.

The following morning we visit the Uros Islands on our way back to Puno. Overnight - Amantani Island (1) Puno (1) (B:1, L:1, D:1)

Making our way to La Paz along the shores of Lake Titicaca, we reach the lofty capital this afternoon. Remainder of today and all tomorrow is free to explore. The bustling street life and traditional roots make La Paz a surprise highlight for many travellers. Overnight - La Paz

Travelling to Uyuni by bus and train before embarking on our 3 night 4x4 tour of the world’s largest salt flats Overnight - bus and train

Next spend three days exploring the stunning landscapes between the Salar de Uyuni and Chile’s Atacama Desert by four-wheel-drive vehicle. Piercing blue skies contrast with blinding white salt as you drive across the flat lakebed. The area’s unusual landscape of mountains, active volcanoes, and geysers is like nowhere on earth. Travelling the maze of tracks across this surreal landscape, we visit an array of settlements and sites.

Absorb stunning views of the salt-encrusted lakebed surrounded by golden-hued mountains, snow-capped peaks and an endless azure horizon that will forever engrave itself in your memory. The tour takes us through Laguna Colorada a large red lagoon whose colour is the result of algae & plankton growth in the mineral-rich waters, and Laguna Verde, a lake that owes its striking blue-green colour to high concentrations of lead, sulphur, copper and other minerals. There will also be the chance to spot flamingos, llamas and owls. Overnight - Salar de Uyuni (B:2, L:3, D:2)

The site for one of the world’s longest continually operated silver mines, the UNESCO-listed city of Potosi bares both the fruits and scars of this legacy. Maybe take the opportunity to descend down a working mine and witness archaic mining methods and conditions which are still practiced today. Overnight - Potosi

Sucre is the cultural centre of the country and possesses many museums, quality restaurants and relaxing cafes – The days are free to enjoy this laid back city. Maybe opt to take a short trip to the site of 60 million year-old dinosaur tracks! Overnight - Sucre

Transfer to the airport for the flight to La Paz, leaving the rest of the day free. Overnight - La Paz

Depart any time today.