Hot Springs, Trekking and Desert Adventure
Dates: 15th – 25th July 2026
Cost: €2,550
Countries: Peru
Janet’s Journeys is back with our best-selling trip year after year, and it’s easy to see why!
This 11-day adventure through Peru constantly sells out, taking you across one of the most unique, diverse, and mountainous countries on Earth.
From the world-famous UNESCO site Machu Picchu to the vibrant colours of Rainbow Mountain, this trip is packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, we’ve added a stay at the Instagram-worthy alpaca hotel that Janet recently discovered!
For those who can’t get enough, continue the adventure by joining our Galápagos Islands journey taking place right after and get €150 off your total booking!
What’s Included
Meals as indicated
All activities
All accomodation
All domestic transport
Two domestic flights and airport transfers
Licensed Peruvian guide & Irish trip leader
Excluded:
Additional snacks and meals
International Flights
Travel insurance
Tips for guides etc
Accommodation
Throughout our stay in Peru, we will stay in a mix of 3- and 4-star hotels, guesthouses, and unique accommodations.
All rooms on all trips are shared, with 2 people in each room. We will partner you with an adventure buddy – a fantastic way to make new friends! You’ll be moved around to pair up with a new friend every couple of nights.
All rooms will be twin sharing, private rooms!
Itinerary
Day 1 - Lima
Welcome to Peru! You will land in Lima, where your transfer will collect you and bring you to your hotel.
This evening will give you time to relax and get to know everyone over a group dinner ahead of your hectic and exciting day tomorrow!
Meals included: Welcome Dinner
Day 2 - Flight to Cusco
Today we head back to the airport and make our way up into the mountains to one of our favourite little towns in the world — Cusco.
After checking into our hotel, we’ll set out on a guided tour of the city and its remarkable surroundings. Once the historical capital of Peru, Cusco is a place where Incan heritage and Spanish colonial charm intertwine. We’ll visit the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, a grand Baroque church built on the foundations of the Koricancha Temple, once the most sacred site in the Incan Empire.
Our journey continues to several nearby archaeological sites, including Q’enko, an ancient amphitheatre thought to have been used for ceremonial sacrifices, and Tambomachay, known as the ceremonial site of water worship. We’ll also explore Sacsayhuaman, the incredible Incan fortress famous for its colossal hand-carved stones, and Puka Pukara, a former travellers’ rest stop overlooking the valley.
By the end of the day, you’ll see why Cusco captures the heart of every traveller who visits.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3 - Sacred Valley
After breakfast at our hotel in Cusco, we’ll set off for the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas. The drive winds through lush Andean landscapes and traditional mountain villages, offering plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Our first stop is Pisac, famous for its lively market filled with colourful textiles and handcrafted souvenirs. From there, we’ll explore the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo, once an Inca palace and later the empire’s final stronghold against the Spanish. We’ll also visit the dazzling salt terraces of Maras, still in use since Incan times, and the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, an ancient agricultural laboratory that showcases the incredible ingenuity of the Incas.
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4 - Machu Picchu
Today, you’ll tick one of the Seven Wonders of the World off your list as we visit the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour through this sacred citadel, learning about its remarkable construction, the story of Hiram Bingham’s 1911 discovery, and the significance of its most famous landmarks — including the Sun Stone, Sun Temple, and Room of the Three Windows.
After the tour, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you can unwind in the local hot springs before enjoying dinner and a relaxing evening in town.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 5 - Alpaca Hotel
In the morning, you’ll take the train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollyantaytambo.
After stopping at a local market for some shopping, we’ll check into the VERY unique and luxurious Mountain View Hotel – a working farm with over 100 llamas and alpacas.
Today we’re treating you to a magical experience – a hot tub surrounded by alpacas and a chill evening in this magical hotel in the mountains!
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 6 - Back to Cusco
We’ll check out of our dreamy hotel around 11.30am and drive back to Cusco.
We have a relaxing afternoon to get ready for our dinner buffet show, where you will enjoy the most representative dances of Peru.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7 - Rainbow Mountain
We’re up early, we’ll begin our journey at the Cusipata trailhead and set off to explore the world-famous Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca. We will have breakfast at the trailhead before we embark on this high-altitude climb.
This spectacular natural wonder is celebrated for its vividly coloured slopes, created by mineral deposits that paint the landscape in shades of red, yellow, and turquoise. The hike takes us through picturesque fields and small mountain villages, offering breathtaking views of the Ausangate Mountain range along the way.
Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife such as chinchillas and vicuñas, which often graze nearby. It’s a truly unforgettable experience in one of Peru’s most striking settings.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 8 - Huacachina
Today you’ll fly back to Lima in the morning, and we’ll take a 4-hour bus to the desert oasis town of Huacachina. We’ll stop somewhere for lunch along the way and have time to walk around the lake in the evening and go for drinks.
For those who haven’t had enough hikes, you can climb up these amazing sand dunes for an unforgettable sunset view.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 9 - Huacachina
Today is packed with adventure from start to finish. We’ll begin the morning with a wine tasting tour, visiting a selection of stunning vineyards and enjoying lunch at a beautiful local winery — including a stop at the oldest winery in all of South America.
In the afternoon, the pace picks up as we head out on an exhilarating dune buggy ride across the desert, with the chance to try sandboarding down the golden slopes.
We’ll end the day watching the sunset from the top of the dunes, a magical moment that perfectly captures the spirit of Peru.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 10 - Ballestas Islands
Today is all about nature and wildlife viewing with a visit to some national parks and nearby islands to see dolphins, seals, flamingos and more in what some people call “the Galapagos of Peru”.
In the afternoon we’ll drive back to Lima where we’ll have a farewell dinner!
Meals included: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
Day 11 - Departure Day
It’s time to say goodbye to Peru and each other! Airport transfers will be available to catch your flight home, unless you choose to extend your stay in the Galapagos.
Bon Voyage and see you on the next trip!
Meals included: Breakfast
FAQ & Itinerary Note:
This itinerary, as always, is open to small changes depending on the weather, flights, etc. Fear not, if we have to make any adjustments, it will be to swap something out with an equally, if not better, experience!
Please note: this trip begins and ends at Lima.
I'm ready! How do I book?
Click the BOOK NOW button to head to our payment portal and secure your spot with a €750 deposit. The remaining balance will be divided into two equal payments, due 2 and 3 months before departure.
Need a custom payment plan? No problem! Reach out to us, and we’ll create a plan tailored to your needs. Remember, spots are booked on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait!
How many people are on the trip?
This trip requires a minimum number of guests to proceed, and this minimum must be met at least 4 months before departure to be guaranteed. If the minimum number of guests is not met by then, a full refund will be issued.
Expect to travel with 6-14 new friends!
Why are deposits non-refundable?
The deposit for your trip is non-refundable due to several important factors. Firstly, when you book a spot, we immediately begin the process of planning and preparing for your journey. This involves engaging staff who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure every aspect of your trip is meticulously organised. These preparations often involve upfront costs that are incurred from the moment your booking is confirmed. Additionally, by requiring a non-refundable deposit, we aim to ensure that all participants are committed to the trip.
We understand that plans can change, which is why we insist all travellers have trip insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that might affect their ability to participate.
What about my other payments? Are they refundable?
All payments, except your deposit, are fully refundable three months prior to the departure date. After the three-month mark, any payments made are non-refundable. This is because we are usually unable to find a replacement at such short notice, and have contracts in place with our vendors that need to be fulfilled.
Again, we strongly recommend all travellers have travel insurance so that they can refund you should your plans change. At the end of the day, we are a small business, and we want nothing more than to continue showing our guests the world. We hope you understand the importance of adhering strictly to this policy.
How much money will I need for non-included meals, alcohol, and souvenirs?
For non-included meals, expect to spend about €8-€15 for casual dining and up to €25 for nicer meals. Alcoholic drinks typically cost €3-€6 for a beer and €5-€10 for wine or cocktails. Pisco Sours (Peru’s signature drink) are a must-try and usually cost around €6-€8.
Peru is fantastic for shopping! From alpaca wool products to handmade textiles and silver jewelry, there’s plenty to tempt you. Markets are great for bargaining, so don’t be shy. Budgeting for souvenirs is based on personal spending habits, but expect incredible value for beautiful, authentic items.
How does tipping work?
To make things smooth and stress-free, we will be collecting a kitty of €50-100 at the beginning of the trip. This ensures all of our incredible on-the-ground vendors are taken care of, including guides, drivers, meals, and activities that are listed in your itinerary.
For any additional meals or personal expenses not included in the itinerary, you should expect to pay a separate tip. We will guide you on what is appropriate throughout the trip so you feel confident and comfortable.
How physically demanding is the trip?
The trip is designed to be accessible to most people in good health. Activities include moderate walks, visits to historical sites, and some optional light hikes. The altitude in Cusco and Machu Picchu (around 2,400-3,400m) can affect some people, so we build in acclimatization time. It’s not overly strenuous, but a basic level of fitness will help you get the most out of the experiences, especially the trek to Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain if included.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely! Peruvian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and dietary needs can be easily accommodated. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available, from quinoa dishes to fresh salads and vegetable stews. Please inform us of your specific needs in advance, and we’ll ensure your meals are tailored accordingly.
What if I want my own room?
We believe that rooming is one of the best parts of the experience. It feels a little like adult summer camp and has always been a highlight for our guests, with nothing but positive feedback in the past.
That being said, if you feel that sharing does not suit your travel style, we are happy to discuss the option of a single room supplement. Simply reach out to us at janetsgrouptrips@gmail.com and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What are the health and vaccination requirements?
There are no required vaccinations to enter Peru. However, it’s always wise to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations. Some travelers may consider vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, or Yellow Fever (especially if visiting the Amazon region). Please feel free to do your own research or consult with your GP or a travel doctor for any additional vaccinations you might consider for the trip.
Altitude sickness medication (such as Diamox) can be helpful for some travellers. Staying hydrated, taking it easy on the first day at altitude, and avoiding alcohol initially can make all the difference.
Who’s leading the trip?
An experienced Janet’s Journey’s leader and the local tour guide will be with you every step of the way.
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