Peru Itinerary

Kick off your mornings with informal Spanish lessons at the AASD office, giving you the confidence to interact with locals and immerse yourself in Andean culture.

Then it’s off to EcoHuella, a highly regarded hub for innovation and sustainability in the Sacred Valley. This pilot project is a game-changer for high-altitude Andean communities, offering them cutting-edge solutions to adapt to climate change. Farmers and community leaders come here to learn about sustainable practices, from diversifying crops to improving soil health, ensuring their traditions thrive in the face of modern challenges.

Projects will include:
• Reforestation - preparing tree seedlings that help combat soil erosion.
• Caring for guinea pigs - a vital part of Andean agriculture, teaching you about their role in sustainable farming.
• A hands-on coffee workshop, where you’ll meet local farmers, learn about the coffee trade’s challenges, and see how innovative practices are transforming their livelihoods.
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The weekend is yours to embrace the Sacred Valley at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity to venture further afield and soak in the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the region.

Many gappers choose to head out to Cusco, which is about 1.5 hours away.  It is a great place to explore and hang out - lots of vibrant streets, historic sites, and bustling energy. Explore the Plaza de Armas, visit the fascinating Qorikancha Temple, or enjoy a leisurely coffee at one of the city’s many groovy cafes. Highly recommend.

A great day planned in and around the Sacred Valley.  The first stop will be with the  incredible Evangelina and Elisvaan at their alpaca farm for a hands-on textile workshop. Here you will learn how they dye and weave intricate patterns using traditional techniques, and try your hand at making something unique. Fancy a new poncho, belt, or scarf? This is THE place to pick up authentic Andean textiles – no imports here.

After lunch, you’ll head off to explore the epic Inca ruins of Pisac, a sprawling site with terraces, ceremonial baths, and ancient cemeteries. The views here are insane, wrapping up the day at the Pisac market, a buzzing hub of colourful stalls where you can snag everything from alpaca hats to Peruvian cowboy hats.

Next up is the bucket-list moment you’ve been waiting for—Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and Peru’s ultimate treasure. But this isn’t just any trip to Machu Picchu—you’ll take a far more unique and meaningful route.

Your journey begins in the breathtaking Lares Valley, a remote and untouched region where you’ll visit the Quishuarani community, a high-altitude village thriving against the odds with the help of AASD’s greenhouse technology. Meeting these families, hearing their stories, and seeing their resilience first hand is a humbling and inspiring experience that will stay with you long after you leave. After connecting with the community, you’ll unwind in natural hot springs before descending to Ollantaytambo, a beautifully preserved Inca town surrounded by ancient terraces and fortress ruins. You’ll spend the night here, soaking up the magic of this historic town as you prepare for the adventure ahead.

The following morning, you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. As the train winds through lush valleys and towering peaks, the excitement builds for what lies ahead. Perched at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) is Machu Picchu, a 15th-century masterpiece built as a royal estate for Emperor Pachacuti. Hidden from the world for centuries, it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and has since become one of the most iconic destinations on the planet.

Upon arrival, you’ll hike up to explore the ruins in their full glory. Wander through the Temple of the Sun, marvel at the intricate agricultural terraces, and soak in the mystical atmosphere as mist drifts across the peaks. Surrounded by jaw-dropping views, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into another world.

After a day of unforgettable exploration, you’ll take the train back to Calca, carrying memories, stories, and photos of one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth.

You’ll arrive in Puerto Maldonado in the early morning, weary from the overnight journey, but buzzing with anticipation. This vibrant jungle town is the gateway to the Amazon, where everything shifts: the air is thick, the colours more vivid, and the pace much slower.

You’ll settle into a charming hostel, surrounded by tropical greenery, and have time to unwind by the pool, stretch your legs, and acclimatise to the warm, humid air. It’s the perfect pause before diving into your next chapter, one that hums with the sounds of the rainforest and promises adventure at every turn.

Rise before dawn for one of the Amazon's most magical moments – sunrise over Lake Sandoval. As the early morning mist lifts from the water, you’ll quietly paddle out in search of Giant Otters as they hunt for breakfast and witness the Amazon awakening with an explosion of birdlife.

After a rewarding morning of wildlife spotting, you’ll return to the lodge for a leisurely breakfast and a chance to relax. In the afternoon, you’ll delve deeper into the rainforest, walking among towering Brazil Nut trees and learning about the rich history of their harvest.

Then you’ll climb aboard a catamaran and glide through the canopy in search of playful monkeys swinging between the trees.

As night falls once again, you’ll have the chance to spot the elusive Black Caimans that glide silently through the waters or take a nighttime stroll through the forest to witness the Amazon's nocturnal creatures.

On your final morning in the jungle, you’ll take one last canoe ride across Lake Sandoval, savouring the tranquility and soaking in the final moments of your Amazon adventure.

After lunch at the lodge, you'll bid farewell to the rainforest and journey back by boat to Puerto Maldonado reflecting on the profound experiences of the past few days – the wildlife, the vibrant jungle, and the unforgettable encounters.

Once back in Puerto Maldonado, you'll transfer back to Cusco for your final night in the Sacred Valley. There, you’ll have time to relax, and celebrate the extraordinary journey you’ve completed with your team of Leapers.