Across the Andes - Quito to La Paz

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Quito

Soak up the rich colonial atmosphere and explore narrow cobblestone streets lined with colourful markets.

Days 3-4 Amazon Jungle

Spot exotic wildlife from an eco lodge in the heart of the jungle and unearth some of the Amazon's secrets on a locally-guided tour through the steamy forest.

Days 5-7 Banos

Get an adrenaline rush Ecuadorian Andes - white-water rafting, anyone? In the evening, hit the dancefloor with the locals.

Days 8-9 Cuenca

Take an optional day trip through the Cajas National Park or visit the ruins of the Inca's second capital, Ingapirca.

Days 10-13 Mancora/Trujillo

Chill out on Peru's best beaches and see the surfing fishermen of Huanchaco.

Days 14-15 Lima

Explore the colonial streets and experience the exciting nightlife of Peru's capital.

Day 16 Pisco

Sip a pisco sour or opt to visit to the Ballestas Islands, a famed wildlife haven.

Days 17-18 Nazca

From ancient mummies to colossal etchings, discover the mysteries of the desert. An optional flight over the bizarre Nazca Lines is an unforgettable experience.

Days 19-21 Arequipa/Colca Canyon

Conquer one of the world's deepest canyons.

Days 22-24 Cuzco/Ollantaytambo

Discover the alluring colonial city of Cuzco; taste coca tea and visit the colourful San Pedro market. Travel through the Sacred Valley of the Inca and visit a local community - perhaps pick up some Quechua lingo.

Days 25-28 Inca Trail

Trek through cloud forests on the Inca Trail to awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

Day 29 Cuzco

Relax in a cafe or hit the mountain tracks on a blood-pumping bike ride.

Days 30-32 Puno/Lake Titicaca

Cruise the world's highest navigable lake and experience local life at a homestay.

Day 33 Copacabana

Feast on fresh trout at one of the town's atmospheric restaurants or, for a magical experience, visit the birthplace of Inca culture on the Island of the Sun.

Days 34-36 La Paz

If multicoloured scarves, woolly hats, alpaca gloves and woven bags are on the shopping list, then hitting La Paz's markets is a must-do.