Traveling solo can be deeply rewarding — but designing a truly authentic journey isn’t always easy. Private, tailor-made trips often come at a high cost, while standard group tours can feel rushed or superficial, leaving little room for genuine connection.
This itinerary was carefully designed by our local team to offer a meaningful alternative for solo travelers: a journey that combines immersive, community-based experiences with shared moments alongside like-minded travelers — all within a well-balanced and accessible itinerary.
By sharing selected activities and transportation, travelers not only enjoy richer social encounters, but also reduce their environmental footprint, making this journey both personally and environmentally more impactful.
The result is a thoughtfully paced adventure that balances independence with connection, authenticity with comfort, and cultural depth with responsible travel.
Price Includes
What to Bring
Welcome to Peru!
Travel time from the airport to your hotel will depend on various factors given that Lima is a sprawling city. So, take a moment to relax and observe the reality of your host country from your window, or simply close your eyes and settle comfortably into your seat.
Soon you may find yourself yearning for a quick dinner and a well-deserved rest after a long flight. You can check our Restaurant Tips in Lima for some inspiration!
It’s advisable to get some rest, as tomorrow promises an exciting and immersive experience as you delve into the daily life of Lima.
Discover Lima’s layers of history while exploring centuries-old architecture, churches, and traditions. Step inside a 16th-century home for a cacao tasting, visit the Santo Domingo Convent, and—when timing allows—witness the iconic Change of Guards at the Government Palace.
Continue the afternoon savouring iconic Peruvian flavours as you journey through the bohemian neighbourhood of Barranco, tasting ceviche, lomo saltado, and a curated selection of fruits, drinks, and dishes. You’ll even learn to prepare ceviche and a pisco chilcano — a delicious way to experience Peru’s history and culture in every bite!
Start your journey aboard a comfortable bus to the coastal town of Paracas, a peaceful getaway known for its golden beaches, dramatic desert landscapes, and rich marine life. After arriving, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your own pace — stroll along the waterfront, relax by the sea, or wander through the town’s laid-back cafés and artisan shops before your adventures continue.
*Optional: alternatively, you can take a buggy tour in the afternoon. You’ll enjoy a sand buggy experience in a private desert reserve, a more responsible and less crowded alternative to Huacachina. This setting allows you to explore the desert landscapes while minimizing environmental impact and avoiding the mass-tourism atmosphere found in more popular areas.
Set sail from Paracas on a scenic boat ride to the Ballestas Islands. As you cruise across the bay, you’ll first spot the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph etched into the desert hillside, before reaching rocky islands teeming with life. Marvel at colonies of sea lions, playful seabirds, and Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat while your guide shares insights about this unique ecosystem. It’s a relaxed yet unforgettable experience that brings you up close to the wild beauty of Peru’s coast.
Relax in the afternoon before embarking to a night bus to your next destionation, Arequipa.
*Optional: make the most of your time and go on an afternoon excursion to the Paracas National Reserve.
Enjoy a full free day in Arequipa, the “White City,” where elegant volcanic-stone architecture and dramatic mountain backdrops set the scene for exploration. Wander through the historic centre, visit charming plazas and artisan shops, or lose yourself in the colourful corridors of the Santa Catalina Monastery. Whether you prefer tasting local cuisine, admiring panoramic views, or simply soaking up the city’s laid-back vibe, Arequipa invites you to discover its beauty at your own pace.
It is always recommended to get 2 days of acclimatization to the altitude before continuing your journey higher up!
Get to know Arequipa through its food on a relaxed walking tour through the city and a local market. Try more than 14 traditional dishes and drinks from Arequipa and the surrounding area, learn about everyday ingredients like cuy and alpaca, and see how ocopa is prepared using a traditional batán. Along the way, meet local hosts and hear the stories and traditions behind the food people enjoy every day.
Embark on a shared bus from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. As you ascend through sweeping Andean landscapes, you’ll pass picturesque farming terraces, highland villages, and herds of grazing llamas and alpacas. You’ll arrive to the community of Coporaque, where you’ll be welcomed by your personal hosts and invited into their family, sharing stories, traditions and everyday moments together.
Enjoy an authentic cultural exchange as you participate in community activities, share home-cooked meals, and experience the warmth of Andean hospitality. In the evening, settle into a cozy homestay in Coporaque — a peaceful setting that offers a true glimpse into rural life in the Colca Valley.
Set out early toward Cruz del Cóndor, following a route that winds along the dramatic walls of the Colca Canyon. As the sun rises over terraced fields and remote Andean villages, you’ll arrive at one of the best viewpoints to witness the majestic Andean condors in flight. From the cliff’s edge, watch these enormous birds glide effortlessly on warm air currents, their wings spanning over three meters.
Continue your journey to Puno, traveling through the Andean highlands toward the shores of Lake Titicaca. Take the evening to rest and settle in, preparing for the unique experiences that await you on the lake the following day.
Set out with fellow travellers on a boat journey across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, heading first to the unique floating Uros Islands. Here, you’ll meet local residents who will explain how these man-made islands are built from totora reeds and share insights into their daily life on the water.
Continue sailing across the lake to the island of Taquile. Be ready for a climb along its steep stone paths — the effort is rewarded with stunning views and a strong sense of place.
This afternoon is dedicated exclusively to time with your host family. Away from groups and schedules, you’ll enjoy a private and intimate experience, sharing daily activities, conversations and meals — a rare opportunity to connect on a truly personal level.
Wake up to the calm rhythm of island life on Taquile. After sharing a simple breakfast with your host family, take time to wander the island’s stone paths, learn more about Taquile’s renowned textile traditions, and observe daily life in this peaceful community.
As the morning unfolds, make your way down to the harbour and board the boat back to Puno. The return journey offers a relaxing ride across lake Titicaca’s deep blue waters — a perfect moment to reflect on the warmth of your homestay experience and the unique culture of the island.
Travel from Puno to Cusco aboard a comfortable tourist bus following the iconic Ruta del Sol, a scenic journey that weaves through high-altitude plains, Andean peaks, and traditional villages. Throughout the day, you’ll make enriching stops at cultural and archaeological landmarks.
Enjoy guided visits, a delicious Andean lunch, and ever-changing landscapes as you cross from the shores of Lake Titicaca into the heart of the Sacred Valley region.
Get to know Cusco on foot! This morning you will join our exclusive, self-designed Walking Tour, created by our local team to go beyond the standard routes. This tour (downhill only), offers a great introduction to the Inca capital. In the company of your guide, you will first discover two of the most impressive ruins situated above the city: Q’enqo and Sacsayhuaman. You will be amazed by the views. Then you will descend into the bohemian neighbourhood of San Blas, full of restaurants and charming shops, where you will enjoy a break in a local cafe. After that, it is time to visit the famous Qoricancha (Sun Temple).
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Cusco to explore at your own pace — wander through cobblestone streets, visit a museum or craft market, or simply unwind in one of the city’s charming cafés.
Start your journey through the Sacred Valley to the small town of Lamay, passing terraced mountainsides and riverside villages along the way. Your first stop is Pisac, where you’ll explore its impressive archaeological site perched high above the valley.
Continuing to Lamay, you’ll experience a quieter side of the valley — a place known for its laid-back atmosphere, farming traditions, and close community ties. Enjoy the sweeping landscapes, learn about local customs, and soak up the peaceful rhythm of rural life.
Spend time getting to know daily life in the Andean community of Lamay, guided by the villagers themselves and surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Together with fellow travellers, you’ll take part in shared group activities, which may include community experiences or walks through the surrounding countryside, offering a closer look at rural life and local traditions.
As the day comes to an end, settle in for the night in Lamay, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the valley and resting before your early departure to Machu Picchu the following morning.
Today it’s your adventure to Machu Picchu! Board the train that winds along the Urubamba River to get to Aguas Calientes. From there, you will take the bus to Machu Picchu. Often referred to as “The Lost City of the Incas”, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous and spectacular sets of ruins in the world. It is located 2,430 meters above the Urubamba River. The Incas started building it around AD 1430 as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti, strategically located between deep canyons and impressive mountains called Apus (Gods for the Incas), so it was a well-hidden and well-protected fortress.
Visit Machu Picchu with your private guide, allowing for a more flexible pace, deeper explanations and a more personal experience at this iconic site. The same afternoon, after your visit, you will take the train back to the Sacred Valley and then private transportation back to Cusco.
Discover Cusco through a walking experience that blends local food with the city’s rich history. Begin at Mercado de San Pedro, tasting traditional flavours like tamal cusqueño and chicharrón con mote, before continuing to the Plaza de Armas to try the traditional chiriuchu.
Along the way, explore key landmarks such as the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, and finish in the artistic neighbourhood of San Blas. Here, enjoy a local dessert while taking in beautiful views over the city of Cusco — a perfect mix of culture, history, and everyday flavours.
Once your stomach is happy, continue with a free afternoon!
Spend a full day discovering Cusco’s rich blend of Inca heritage and colonial history. With ample time, you can explore iconic archaeological sites or traditional markets like the San Pedro Market; delve into local art galleries and weaving workshops; or go for a nice walk in the vicinities of the city. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, cuisine, or scenery, Cusco offers endless opportunities to craft your own perfect day.
Your Peruvian adventure is coming to an end… get your things ready and have a last stroll around the magical city of Cusco (if your flight schedule allows for it), or simply relax in your last morning. Head to Cusco’s airport to embark in your flight to Lima or your international flight.
Choosing longer trips and slow travel is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling. On this tour, you will primarily use the most sustainable transportation methods available, avoiding short-haul flights.
Even though this itinerary includes many of Peru’s most iconic highlights, it goes beyond the standard route.
Along the way, we have carefully included off-the-beaten-path destinations and community-based projects where your travel investment has a direct and positive impact.
This journey is designed to balance meaningful social interaction with personal space — giving you time to connect with others, while also honoring the importance of traveling solo. Food plays a central role throughout the experience, as there is no better way to understand a culture and its people than through shared meals and local flavors.
By sharing selected experiences and transportation, you also reduce your environmental footprint — making your journey not only enriching, but more responsible.
If you return home with a renewed awareness of the importance of preserving biodiversity, honoring cultural diversity, and supporting the economies of the world’s most remote corners—then our mission has been fulfilled.
Alejandro lived in Peru for 23 years, so rest assured he has savored every flavor in the very places you’ll explore on this journey. This itinerary is truly one of his signature creations—crafted to bring you the nicest culinary and convivial experiences within the time at hand. His passion for food traces back to his early training in Advanced Restaurant Management in Málaga, and where better to put that knowledge into practice than in Peru, a country once perfectly described as ‘epic’ when it comes to food.
Alejandro: “I’m thrilled to share one of the most special journeys I’ve had the pleasure of designing. This journey takes you deep into Peru’s heart, where history, culture, sustainability, and world-class cuisine come together. From elegant city dinners in iconic venues and hands-on cooking classes with chefs, to meeting local producers and traveling to Machu Picchu, every moment is designed to connect you with the country’s rich flavors and traditions. Behind this itinerary are countless hours of research, collaboration, and a genuine love for showcasing the most authentic, diverse, wild, and flavorful side of Peru“.
The best time to travel to Peru is between half April and half June if you want to avoid crowds. But you can’t really go wrong between April and December; taking into account that it might always rain and there might always be busy times.
January to April is the rainy season in Peru. While you can still travel during that period, consider that some activities might be limited due to heavy rains.
This journey is ideal for solo travelers who want to experience Peru in a deeper, more meaningful way—without the cost of a fully private tour or the superficial pace of large group travel. It’s perfect for those who value authenticity, cultural connection, food, and balanced social interaction.
You will travel independently, but you won’t feel isolated.
Throughout the journey, you’ll share selected experiences with other travelers while also enjoying private moments, personal space, and solo time—creating a healthy balance between connection and independence.
Overall, this trip is not physically very demanding, as hiking is not the main activity of the tour. However, please note that much of the itinerary takes place above 3.000 meters (around 10.000 feet) above sea level, and you will participate in some hikes/walks. That means that one might experience altitude sickness.
To prevent this, make sure you stay hydrated and you should not have any problems. Drink up to three litres per day; soup, water and (coca) tea are always good. We also highly recommend wearing a hat or cap, as the sun can be very strong at such altitudes. If you feel unwell despite these precautions, talk to your guide or host family and they will be happy to help out.
The tour includes a mix of carefully selected hotels and authentic homestays.
Homestays are hosted by local families and offer a more personal and cultural experience, while hotels are chosen for comfort, location, and character.
While most of your accommodations during this trip will have Wi-Fi, please be aware that you will be in remote areas in some parts of the trip where there is no phone signal.
Yes. By sharing transportation and selected activities, this itinerary helps reduce per-traveler emissions compared to fully private tours.
In addition, the route includes community-based projects and off-the-beaten-path destinations where your travel investment supports local economies more directly.
Food is a central element of this experience.
From local markets and home-cooked meals to regional specialties, gastronomy is used as a gateway to culture, storytelling, and human connection—because some of the most meaningful encounters happen around a shared table.
Yes, Peru is generally a safe country to visit, especially in the main tourist regions such as Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Arequipa, and the Amazon. Millions of travelers visit Peru each year without experiencing any safety issues.
That said, as in many destinations, petty theft (like pickpocketing) can occur in crowded areas or on public transportation, so we recommend taking common-sense precautions like keeping valuables secure and avoiding displaying expensive items in busy places.
Our tours are designed with safety in mind. We work with trusted local partners, arrange private or secure transport when necessary, and provide you with up-to-date information before and during your trip.
You can read more about this topic in our Blog.
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For questions about booking a tour, prices, preparation for your trip, health and safety or other themes, please check our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you can’t find your question & answer, email us and we’ll add it!
