Peru is a vast, diverse country of startling contrasts. Our Peru Contrasts packages put the two great Andean experiences back to back: the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash in the north, and the Inca heart of the south, ending at Machu Picchu. Few places in the world let you walk so close to mountains this big, then stand inside a stone citadel built high on a ridge.
Every trip starts gently in Huaraz, with acclimatisation hikes before any high pass, so your body has time to adjust to the altitude. From there we cross the glaciated passes of the Blanca or the Huayhuash, then fly south to Cusco. We prefer to stay away from the crowded, heavily regulated Inca Trail and take you on the quieter Lares or Salkantay routes instead — a more personal walk to Machu Picchu. The classic Inca Trail is still available on request (private service only), but it must be booked many months ahead to secure a permit.
George (USA) — Salkantay & Santa Cruz Ulta TreksBoth our treks were superb, with wonderfully professional service unmatched in our many years of adventure travel. The planning with Anne and Hisao was excellent down to the smallest detail, our special vegan meals were prepared graciously and deliciously with fantastic Peruvian flavours, and our guides and cooks were outstanding. A special thank you to Anne, Hisao, Eli in Huaraz and Bryan in Cusco.
