About this tour
Peru and Bolivia are both lands of the epic and that which must be seen to be believed. This 25-day odyssey takes you to the world’s highest-navigable lake (Titicaca), the world’s largest tropical rainforest (the Amazon), the world’s highest administrative capital (La Paz) and the world’s largest salt flats (Uyuni). It also includes the chance to trek the Inca Trail before emerging above Machu Picchu, which isn’t actually a world-record holder but probably should be for ‘best ancient city in the clouds’. In between the gasps you can ramble through markets, sipping Pisco sours and munching ceviche with locals. This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.This trip involves a lot of walking to see the sites, and if you trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, there'll be strenuous hiking. The trip is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Please bring comfortable footwear suitable to hiking. See the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.For those who trek the Inca Trail or Quarry Trail, you'll be camping with basic facilities. It's definitely the journey as well as the final destination (Machu Picchu) that makes this way of exploring Peru worthwhile.Temperatures in the Amazon can fluctuate from daytime humidity to night-time chill. Insects, especially mosquitoes, are common. We recommend tropical-strength insect repellent and light cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs, with warmer layers for the evening.This trip forms part of many longer combination trips. Some of your fellow travellers may have started earlier or be travelling further, and some will be doing different routes to Machu Picchu.According to Machu Picchu visiting regulations, all visitors must follow a pre-determined route within the site. This route must be followed in one direction only, and once the guided visit commences exiting and re-entering the site is not permitted. Once the guided visit concludes, visitors must exit the site and personal exploration of Machu Picchu is not permitted. Please refer to the Itinerary for details.Travellers who choose different ways of reaching Machu Picchu (Inca Trail, Quarry Trail or Train), will not follow the same routes within Machu Picchu. This means that you may not be able to have photos together, overlooking Machu Picchu. This applies to travellers on the same booking or separate bookings.Can't decide which trek is for you? Read up on them here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-vs-quarry-trail/ Inca trail permits are limited and it's important to book well in advance, read more about it here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/inca-trail-permit/You'll be spending a lot of time in a 4WD crossing some bumpy surfaces. This is the best way to see the sights in and around Uyuni, and is all part of the adventure.In Bolivia (especially in Uyuni), things don't always go to plan. An attraction may be closed for the day with no notice or reason. Although this doesn't happen very often, please be prepared for the possibility.Making your way across the Andean Desert and salt flats isn’t exactly luxurious. Temperatures in the area can be very cold, especially at night, so bring warm clothes with you. Meals are simple, toilet facilities are basic, showers can be cold, and the multi-share accommodation is dormitory-style. This is all part of the adventure. Without a doubt, this amazing experience will be one of the highlights of your trip to South America.The excursion to Salar de Uyuni is on a shared basis and your group size may be larger than 12 travellers.