Peru: Amazon & Machu Picchu Adventure

$5950

Deposit: $500

Aug 29 – Sep 5, 2027

Group size: 10 – 12

Booking Deadline: May 29, 2027

About this trip

This 8-day adventure takes you from the wild heart of the Amazon to the soaring peaks of the Andes. In the Tambopata National Reserve, you’ll witness brilliant macaws at the world’s most active clay lick, search for monkeys, sloths, and capybaras along jungle trails, and glide past caimans on a sunset river cruise.

 From there, the journey continues into the Sacred Valley, where you’ll marvel at the Maras Salt Mines, Moray’s ancient terraces, and savor a traditional Pachamanca feast. The highlight awaits at Machu Picchu, the mystical citadel of the Incas, before concluding in Cusco with its vibrant art, colonial history, and rich culture. This is a journey that blends rare wildlife encounters with some of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures.

 Bilingual guides will escort the group throughout their journey. The boutique hotels selected for this expedition are the most renowned of the region – all boasting beautiful grounds & facilities, high service standards and stunning scenery. The combination of impeccable service, breathtaking views and immersion into Andean culture makes for a true journey of a lifetime!

 For this trip we have partnered with Peru Eco Expeditions to curate a custom and special trip. We are so excited to finally offer this Peru adventure after a long time in the works! 

 Note: This trip is a great alternative to our more hiking-intensive trip being offered Aug 21-29. If you are wanting to experience Machu Picchu and the Amazon without all of the difficult high-elevation hiking, this is the adventure to choose!

Highlights

Activity Level – Moderate

  • Walking & Hiking: 1–3 miles at a time on rainforest trails, archaeological sites, and cobblestone streets.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Gentle hikes and boat rides with frequent stops for observation.

  • Altitude: Up to 11,000 ft. in Cusco and the Sacred Valley; activities paced to allow acclimatization.

  • Overall Pace: Active but balanced with time for rest, cultural experiences, and exploration at leisure.

Weather

August is a fantastic month to visit Machu Picchu. The weather at Machu Picchu in August is characterized by mild temperatures, with average highs of 19°C (66°F) to lows of 7°C (44°F). Next to that, you’ll enjoy many sun hours and clear skies during the day. However, the nights can get somewhat chilly.

 

Are you ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime?

Sneak Peek Trip Details

Day 1 - Arrive

Arrival in the Amazon

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Puerto Maldonado and travel deep into the rainforest by road, riverboat, and trail. The journey itself is an adventure, leading you to one of the most remote lodges in South America — the Tambopata Research Center. After settling into your eco-lodge, you’ll step into the jungle on a guided night walk, searching for frogs, insects, and other nocturnal creatures that bring the forest to life after dark.

Activities: Arrival transfer, boat journey, guided night walk
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Research Center eco-lodge

Note: You will be advised the exact time to plan to arrive in Puerto Maldonado after booking.

Arrive Catania
Cava Misericordi
Day 2 - The Amazon

Macaw clay Licks, Hiking in the Jungle

Rise early for one of nature’s most spectacular shows: the macaw clay lick. Watch in awe as hundreds of brilliantly colored macaws and parrots gather along the riverbank. Keep an eye out for capybaras and tapirs along the way. Back at the lodge, enjoy a hearty lunch before setting off on the lodge’s private trail system to spot monkeys, sloths, and other jungle wildlife. In the evening, sit back and enjoy a fascinating lecture from a resident biologist, learning about the research and conservation efforts taking place here.

Activities: Macaw clay lick visit, Amazon trail hike, evening lecture
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Research Center eco-lodge

Day 3 - Amazon Cruise

River Cruise and Jungle Hiking

Today is all about immersing yourself in the wonders of the jungle. Begin with a guided hike on rainforest trails, where seven species of monkeys and countless other animals call the forest home. After lunch, cross the river to a nearby island where baby caimans lurk in small lagoons. As the day winds down, take to the water for a tranquil sunset cruise, watching the jungle glow in golden light while keeping an eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks.

Activities: Guided jungle hike, island exploration, sunset river cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Research Center eco-lodge

Ragusa to Noto
Vendicari
Day 4 - To Cusco

Day 4: Into the Andes – Arrival in Cusco

Transfer to Cusco and Explore the City

After a farewell breakfast in the Amazon, journey back to Puerto Maldonado by boat and road before flying into the Andes. Arriving in Cusco, the energy shifts as you trade rainforest trails for cobblestone streets. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring this historic city or simply relaxing at your boutique hotel. In the evening, gather for a delicious dinner and soak in the charm of Cusco’s colonial architecture and lively plazas.

Activities: Transfer to Cusco, guided arrival orientation, leisure time in Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Boutique Hotel in Cusco

Day 5 - Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley and Train to Machu Picchu

Set out on a full day of exploration in the Sacred Valley, beginning with the dazzling white terraces of the Maras Salt Mines and the striking circular terraces of Moray. At midday, experience a traditional Pachamanca lunch, an Incan feast cooked beneath the earth on hot stones. In the afternoon, board the Vistadome Observatory Train for a scenic ride through the Andes, arriving in Machu Picchu Pueblo. The evening is yours to explore this vibrant little town before dinner at the hotel.

Activities: Maras Salt Mines, Moray Archaeological Site, Pachamanca lunch experience, scenic train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Boutique Hotel near Machu Picchu

Vendicari
Arrive Catania
Day 6 - Machu Picchu

Mystical Machu Picchu & Transfer to Cusco

Today you’ll finally experience the wonder of Machu Picchu. With expert guides leading the way, wander through the citadel’s terraces, temples, and stone pathways, uncovering the mysteries of this legendary Incan site. Afterward, enjoy a gourmet lunch in Machu Picchu Pueblo before boarding the train and private transfer back to Cusco. The evening is at leisure to rest or wander the charming streets of the San Blas neighborhood.

Activities: Guided tour of Machu Picchu, bus transfers, scenic train ride back to Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Boutique Hotel in Cusco

Day 7 - Peruvian Culture

Art, Wine & Sound Healing in Cusco

Delve into Cusco’s eclectic art scene on a guided walking tour through artisan workshops, galleries, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Along the way, learn about the city’s creative history and meet local artists keeping traditions alive. Pause to enjoy a wine tasting paired with Peruvian appetizers, then reconnect with yourself during a sound healing ceremony designed to restore balance and release energy. In the evening, celebrate your journey with a festive farewell dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse.

Activities: Guided art & wine tour, artisan visits, sound healing ceremony, farewell dinner
Meals: Breakfast, Wine with Appetizers, Dinner
Accommodations: Boutique Hotel in Cusco

Vendicari
Vendicari
Day 8 - Departures

Farewell to Peru

Spend your final morning in Cusco at your own pace — shop for souvenirs, sip a coffee in the plaza, or simply enjoy the mountain views. A private transfer will escort you to the airport for your flight home, carrying memories of the Amazon’s wildlife, the Andes’ culture, and the magic of Machu Picchu.

Activities: Leisure time, airport transfer
Meals: Breakfast

Let’s Make This Journey Yours

What’s included

Accommodation

8 nights in a variety of boutique hotels and a research ecolodge as we travel across Peru. The rooms are double occupancy, but single occupancy can be requested at an additional cost.

Ground Transport

Airport transfer to/from the airport and all transportation during the trip.

Tips for Local Guides

Generous tips are provided for all LOCAL guides and drivers. Tips for the Chicas Abroad tour leader are optional and at your discretion.

Food

All meals included as indicated in the itinerary. We can accommodate dietary restrictions, just let us know!

Excursions

All excursions mentioned in itinerary

Chicas Abroad Swag

We provide amazing swag items to our guests to enjoy during and after your adventure!

Lifelong memories

Make new friends and memories with Chicas Abroad!

What’s not included

International Flights

Guests must book their own international flights to arrive in Puerto Maldonado Airport August 29 by 12:05pm and depart Cuzco (CUZ) on September 5 at any time.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommend to cover any delayed/cancelled flights, lost/delayed luggage, medical expenses, etc. Chicas Abroad will recommend a travel insurance company after booking.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic drinks are at your own expense

Tour Leader Tips

Your Chicas Abroad tour leader works countless hours before and during the trip to ensure a seamless experience so you can adventure more and worry less! $30-40 per day is typical and much appreciated

Personal Purchase

Souvenirs and other personal purchases are not included.

Available Packages $5,950

Peru: Amazon and Machu Picchu Adventure

Available until May 29, 2027

Join us for this cultural and thrilling trip in Peru! 

 All rooms are double-occupancy (with 2 beds).  A single room can be requested for an additional fee. The price for the single room is TBD, so please indicate on your registration form that you are interested in a single room and we will let you know pricing when available.

 Non-refundable deposit* due at booking. The remainder is due by May 29, 2027. Ask us about a modified payment plan to fit your budget; we are happy to make any accommodations as long as the balance is paid in full by May 29, 2027. 

 *Deposit is transferrable to another Chicas Abroad trip if you let us know of your cancellation at prior to May 29, 2027.

Reviews

What a fabulous trip to Greece and the islands of Santorini and Mykonos! This is my second trip with Chicas Abroad and both trips have been stellar. Last year I hiked the Camino De Santiago trail with the Chicas and had a blast. The hotels are top of the line. You won’t be disappointed. I love that everything is arranged for you and all you have to do is enjoy! No stress on vacation as Melanie and her trip leaders take care of everything. The activities and tours are carefully chosen and all have been fabulous. And you get to make new friends with your fellow travelers. If you are looking for a tour company that is top of the line, check out ChicasAbroad.com for all of their fabulous trips! I am already looking forward to my next trip with the Chicas!

5
By Patricia M for Greece Adventure on May 20, 2024

Just returned from 8 days in Greece with Chicas Abroad! What an amazing trip. From Athens to Santorini to Mykonos back to Athens. From the time I landed until the time I left I didn’t have to think about a thing. Everything was thoughtfully planned, including free time to explore and to see all of the relevant sights. It was a dream vacation. I have met wonderful ladies from all across the country, whom I will remain friends with for years to come. Melanie and Kathy were the most excellent Chicas guides! I loved every single minute. Can’t wait for the next adventure!

5
By Kristen H for Greece Adventure on May 26, 2024

Melanie and Kathy did a wonderful job organizing our trip. All events flowed smoothly and we saw some amazing sites. I got to know some fantastic women and look forward to seeing them again on some of my future trips with Chica’s Abroad!

5
By Kristi B for Greece Adventure on May 29, 2024

I traveled to Greece with 2 friends from my hometown and we had a wonderful time. However, the Chicas Abroad leaders, Melanie and Kathy had all the details planned extremely well and everyone was so nice that I would not hesitate to take another Chicas’ trip on my own. What a confidence booster! It was a super experience all the way around. Great job ladies!

5
By Kim E for Greece Adventure on Jun 10, 2024

This was my first trip with the Chicas. It will not be my last! The accommodations were top notch. The activity level was very active, we truly had great adventure. I learned so much thru the people I met. There was a real sence of belonging. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and fun as well. I started out with strangers but gained a new group of strong friends with these ladies. It was an unforgettable experience.

5
By Marlene B for Northern Italy Food & Wine Adventure on Jul 01, 2024

This trip felt “intimate” and very cultural. I enjoyed meeting meeting the food artisans in their shops (pasta, chocolate, dairy). The chefs and owners of several restaurants came to our table to welcome us, and will always remember dinner at Monica’s family home.

5
By Linda M for Northern Italy Food & Wine Adventure on Jul 03, 2024

We could not have had the experience we had without your assistance. From the driver who picked us up from the airport to the driver of the 55 passenger bus the drivers were amazing. Having a guide for every excursion/tour was a must. Our tickets were ready, no lines to wait in, and having a knowledgeable guide was so appreciated!!! We were able to see everything we hoped to. Our time in Grimaldi was so special…we didn’t know what to expect. The people of Grimaldi were so kind and made us feel very welcomed. A trip of a lifetime that we were able to experience as a family🇮🇹❤️

5
By Michele H for Naccarato Italy Trip on Jul 07, 2024
Absolutely beautiful beyond words! Inspiring women, trip details were well organized, a lot of fun, laughter and smiles.
5
By susan k for Canadian Rockies Hiking & e-Biking Adventure on Jul 23, 2024

My niece and I went on this trip together and the memories and experiences we gained are something I will always cherish. The trip was perfectly planned, the group was full of kind and fun women, and the itinerary was challenging while also safe and enjoyable. I will definitely be checking back in to book a future Chicas Abroad trip!

5
By Nicole C for Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Sea Kayaking Adventure on Aug 06, 2024

AmaziAmazing experience and a fantastic adventure. It was a six star trip! Definitely looking forward to the next one. Sarah S.ng experience and a fantastic adventure. It was a six star trip! Definitely looking forward to the next one. Sarah S.

5
By Sarah S for Montana Hiking, Biking, and Rafting Adventure on Aug 06, 2024