Peru and Bolivia Explorer | Train To Machu Picchu (From Mar 2025)
Peru and Bolivia Explorer | Train To Machu Picchu (From Mar 2025)
$4335
Peru and Bolivia Explorer | Train To Machu Picchu (From Mar 2025)
13 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in La Paz, Bolivia
Visiting: Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, La Paz, Uyuni, Avaroa National Reserve
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ANTR20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Peru and Bolivia Explorer tour, starting in the vibrant city of Lima and culminating in the breathtaking heights of La Paz. This journey takes you through the heart of the Incan Empire, with highlights including a guided exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the bustling streets of Cusco. Experience the lush Amazon rainforest from a unique jungle lodge in Puerto Maldonado, and capture stunning photos at the surreal Bolivian Salt Flats. With a mix of flights, private coaches, and traditional boats, this tour offers a seamless travel experience. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and savor local cuisine with included meals. From the cultural richness of ancient ruins to the natural wonders of the Andes, this tour promises an exhilarating blend of history, nature, and adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Selina Miraflores (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Lima! Steeped in Spanish colonialism yet buzzing with modern metro vibes, this place is sure to ignite your love for Peru. Spend your morning marveling at lavishly decorated churches and an underground tunnel cemetery overflowing with bones or catacombs, then hit the Barranco district this afternoon to get a feel for its bohemian ambiance. A stroll over the Bridge of Sighs is also a must. And of course no trip to Lima is complete without devouring at least one portion of ceviche – it’s a pretty massive deal in the city. Round off the day watching the sun set over the Pacific, most likely with a pisco sour in hand…
Day 2: Lima To Jungle Lodge
Location: Puerto Maldonado
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll catch a flight to the city of Puerto Maldonado in Peru’s southern jungle. We’ll have lunch on the river as we travel upstream by a traditional Peruvian boat to our Contiki Special Stay Rain forest Lodge in the mighty Amazon jungle, where we’ll try to spot toucans, macaws and capybaras along the way. A quick tour of the city will reveal colorful fruit stalls, open air markets, and locals going about their day. But now we're back underway and we just want to get to the jungle. Our lodge is a special experience in itself! Located in then luscious rainforest and made from wood and clay, its open walls leave you sleeping virtually amongst the rainforest! After you settle in, we’ll get a different take on the jungle as we take a hike to the canopy tower. After climbing the 100ft of stairs you will be provided with a birds-eye view of the rainforest! Home to monkeys, birds, bromeliads and other jungle life, this is the ultimate way to see the jungle. After dinner you can experience something really different, heading out to look for caiman, a member of the alligator family native to the Amazon. Scan the shores with flashlights and see if you can catch the red gleam of the light as it reflects off of the caiman’s eyes.
Day 3: Jungle Lodge
Location: Puerto Maldonado
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
With another day at the jungle lodge, keep your eyes peeled for a wildlife like the giant otter, monkeys, tropical birds, bromeliads and other jungle life, this is the ultimate way to see the jungle.
Day 4: Jungle Lodge To Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wave goodbye to your jungle home, and say hello to Cusco. Spend today exploring the beautiful city of Cusco - wander the main plaza, visit the Tread Right support weaving centre or feed your sweet tooth with a visit to the chocolate museum.
Day 5: Cusco To Sacred Valley
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Heading out of Cusco and bound for the Sacred Valley on our private coach, this is where our journey into the ruins and mystique of this land truly begins. We’ll stop off to witness the ancient Incan art of weaving in practice by a group of talented local artisans. Throughout the journey, pay close attention to your surrounds – there’s the chance to spot the Incan farming technique of terracing. Want to know what the Peruvians do for fun? You’ll get the chance to play the traditional game of “Sapo”, and exactly what that entails we’ll leave to the imagination… Our explorations of the Sacred Valley will begin with a guided tour of the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Our Local Guide will give you the d-l on both, visiting the circular terraced Pisac ruins first which date back to the 1400’s. Moving on to Ollantaytambo, base camp for those taking the trek tomorrow, we’ll appease dry mouths with some homemade Chicha de Jora brew. This tiny town may be small in geographical terms, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude, with artisan shops and cafes spilling out onto streets, and the roaring Urubamba river providing the perfect natural background noise. For those embarking on the Inca trail tomorrow this is your final chance to stock up on last minute essentials (socks, socks and more socks). For all others, spend your time soaking in the vibes, hanging with other travellers and just getting a feel for this iconic little town.
Day 6: Sacred Valley To Aguas Calientes Or Inca Trail Trek
Location: Aguas Calientes
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Flower's House (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
For those embarking on our epic 1 day trek, we’ll grab a packed lunch and catch the train to KM104 and the start of a day to remember. With just 3.5 hours on foot and 13-kilometres to cover, the enchanting site that awaits us will make it all worthwhile. Descending into the site we’ll take in Huayna Picchu 'Little peak' – the iconic peak you’ll have seen in every picture ever – marvelling at the incredible handiwork of the ancient Incas. Satisfaction levels at an all-time high and with a big ol’ smile on your tired face, we’ll head back to Aguas Calientes and a squishy hotel bed you couldn’t be more deserving of. For those not embarking on the Inca Trail, the morning is yours to enjoy the surrounding lush mountains of Aguas Calientes. Can you feel the excitement mounting? Yep – those are pretty much the feels when Machu Picchu is quite literally on the horizon. This afternoon we’ll hop on the train to Aguas Calientes, a cute town in its own right complete with roaring river, quaint bridges and local haunts, but most famously known as the gateway town to Machu Picchu. We’ll meet up with those who opted for the one day trek, and basically spend the evening hyping each other up for what’s to come tomorrow.
Day 7: Aguas Calientes To Cusco Via Machu Picchu
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here – it’s Machu Picchu time! This is one big old tick off the life goals list, so enjoy every single second of it. Built around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We’ll be treated to a guided tour of the site taking in such wonders as the Temple of the Three Windows and Wayana Picchu (the peak you’ll of seen in every Machu Picchu image ever), and of course you’ll have some alone time to explore the area as only you can do. Back on the train we’ll de-brief on our once-in-a-lifetime experience as we head back to Cusco. Last time round was all about getting acquainted with the city, so now you’ve got you’re bearings you can really get lost amongst the market stalls and cobbled streets, maybe even going truly local by trying out a serving of cuy.
Day 8: Cusco To La Paz
Location: La Paz
Accommodation Name: Selina La Paz (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day, another country. Welcome to Bolivia! If you're looking for vistas, La Paz is your gal. Sitting in the midst of a narrow canyon and dwarfed by the mighty ice capped peak of Mount Illimani to the South, this is a city of contrasts, where 19th century churches rub shoulders with towering office blocks and pretty, colourful markets. Take your time adjusting to the altitude, then make the most of your afternoon in this hustling, cosmopolitan city.
Day 9: La Paz To Avaroa National Reserve
Location: Uyuni
Accommodation Name: Avaroa National Reserve
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we're headed to Uyuni, the official gateway to the Salar de Uyuni...more commonly known as the Bolivian Salt Flats. Excited much? You should be. To get the journey started, we'll be heading to the Great Train Graveyard, which is every bit as incredible as it sounds. Next up what you've been waiting for, the Salt Flats. Hope you've got your picture ideas ready, the possibilities are endless. We'll continue through the desert before parking up for the night. Expect some beautiful night skies out here.
Day 10: Avaroa National Reserve
Location: Avaroa National Reserve
Accommodation Name: Avaroa National Reserve
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
It's time to jump back in the 4x4 and continue through the Bolivian desert. We'll be starting a crossing through the Avaroa National Reserve. Hot springs, geysers, volcanoes, mountains, lakes and flocks of flamingos will have your head spinning 360 as you try to take it all on. Nature on steroids is probably the best description.
Day 11: Avaroa National Night Bus To La Paz
Location: La Paz
Accommodation Name: Overnight bus
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we start the journey back to Uyuni. So sit back and enjoy the views unlike anywhere else. You'll get a chance to have a look around the town and grab some dinner. Tonight we're getting on a night bus. Falling asleep in Uyuni and waking up in La Paz? There's no easier way to get across the country.
Day 12: La Paz
Location: La Paz
Accommodation Name: Selina La Paz (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today's the day to soak up Bolivia one last time. See the city from above on La Paz's incredible cable car system, or use the your day to get a final taste of Bolivian delicacies - llama anyone?This afternoon, a nap may be calling your name, getting you nice and rested before your final night with your Contiki crew!
Day 13: End La Paz
Location: La Paz
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning your trip ends. Not ready to say goodbye to South America? Why not join us on another Contiki tour with your new mates?
What's Included
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Meals
Meals are included throughout the tour, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided on specific days.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are included at various locations such as Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and La Paz.
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Transportation
Transportation is provided including flights, private coach, traditional Peruvian boat, and a night bus.
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Special Experiences
Special experiences such as a hike to the canopy tower in the Amazon, a visit to the Great Train Graveyard, and exploring the Bolivian Salt Flats are included.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Selina Miraflores, LodgeCorto Maltes Amazonia Lodge, Selina Saphi, Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo, Hotel Flower's House, Selina La Paz, and Avaroa National Reserve.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Peru and Bolivia are not included.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Lunch (L)
Active
- Puerto Maldonado: We'll make our way through the lush green Amazon rainforest at our Jungle Lodge in Puerto Maldonado. There's no better way to reconnect with nature!
Culture
- Lima: Cameras ready. It’s not every day you get a bird’s eye view of the Amazon rainforest
- Puerto Maldonado:
- Cusco: Feel those butterflies of excitement as you board a plane to the Peruvian city. It’s the former capital of the Inca Empire.
- Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
- Sacred Valley: See this former heartland of the Incan Empire and hike around the Pisac ruins.
- Sacred Valley: Learn about the vibrant Andean art of weaving & goldsmithing in Pisac Qolque. Every penny you spend here helps them preserve their time-worn cultural identities & form of self-expression.
- Cusco: Jet into this mountaintop city and enjoy the sweeping panoramic views.
- La Paz: Swoop into this small Bolivian town – the gateway to visit the salt flats at Salar de Uyuni.
- Uyuni: This one’s pretty surreal! An array of abandoned steam engines that were left to rust are now a work of modern art.
- Uyuni: Visit the stretch of salt flats. They’re kind of like a giant beach made from salt. And it’s an epic backdrop for some quirky pics.
- La Paz: It’s high time we explored the world’s highest (administrative) capital! Joined by an expert local guide, we’ll check out the best sights in La Paz - get a slightly creepy gift for your BFF at the Witches Market, stand in Plaza Murillo and see the rainbow colours of Jaen Street and see the landmark St Francis Basilica.
Included Experience
- Lima: Get to know this magnificent clifftop city. It’s steeped in history and pretty architecture. But we’re all about the epic food.
- Lima: Cameras ready. It’s not every day you get a bird’s eye view of the Amazon rainforest
- Puerto Maldonado: We'll make our way through the lush green Amazon rainforest at our Jungle Lodge in Puerto Maldonado. There's no better way to reconnect with nature!
- Puerto Maldonado:
- Cusco: Feel those butterflies of excitement as you board a plane to the Peruvian city. It’s the former capital of the Inca Empire.
- Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
- Sacred Valley: See this former heartland of the Incan Empire and hike around the Pisac ruins.
- Sacred Valley: Learn about the vibrant Andean art of weaving & goldsmithing in Pisac Qolque. Every penny you spend here helps them preserve their time-worn cultural identities & form of self-expression.
- Sacred Valley: The sleepy town will give you a taste of local life in the Sacred Valley. Don’t forget to pick up some mementos at the market.
- Cusco: AKA ‘corn beer’. This ceremonial bevvy was the drink of choice for Incan nobility.
- Machu Picchu: Feel the goosebumps of excitement as you glide into Aguas Calientes and get ready to start this life-changing experience.
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
- Cusco: Jet into this mountaintop city and enjoy the sweeping panoramic views.
- La Paz: Swoop into this small Bolivian town – the gateway to visit the salt flats at Salar de Uyuni.
- Uyuni: This one’s pretty surreal! An array of abandoned steam engines that were left to rust are now a work of modern art.
- Uyuni: Visit the stretch of salt flats. They’re kind of like a giant beach made from salt. And it’s an epic backdrop for some quirky pics.
- Reserva Nacional de Fauna Andina Eduardo Avaroa: Wild llamas and alpacas. Flamingos. Salt flats. Volcanos. The list of amazing things you’ll see here is endless.
- La Paz: It’s high time we explored the world’s highest (administrative) capital! Joined by an expert local guide, we’ll check out the best sights in La Paz - get a slightly creepy gift for your BFF at the Witches Market, stand in Plaza Murillo and see the rainbow colours of Jaen Street and see the landmark St Francis Basilica.
- La Paz: See San Francisco Church and Metropolitan Cathedral – two impressive landmarks in this lively city
Landmarks
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
Nature
- Reserva Nacional de Fauna Andina Eduardo Avaroa: Wild llamas and alpacas. Flamingos. Salt flats. Volcanos. The list of amazing things you’ll see here is endless.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes various modes of transportation such as flights, a private coach, a traditional Peruvian boat, and a night bus.
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What special experiences are included in the tour?
Special experiences include a hike to the canopy tower in the Amazon, a visit to the Great Train Graveyard, and exploring the Bolivian Salt Flats.
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Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, meals are included throughout the tour, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided on specific days.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Selina Miraflores, LodgeCorto Maltes Amazonia Lodge, Selina Saphi, Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo, Hotel Flower's House, Selina La Paz, and Avaroa National Reserve.
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What wildlife might I see during the tour?
In the Amazon rainforest, you might see toucans, macaws, capybaras, giant otters, monkeys, and tropical birds. In the Avaroa National Reserve, you can expect to see wild llamas, alpacas, flamingos, and other wildlife.
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What activities are available in La Paz?
In La Paz, you can explore the city with an expert local guide, visit the Witches Market, stand in Plaza Murillo, see the rainbow colors of Jaen Street, and visit landmarks like San Francisco Church and Metropolitan Cathedral.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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