Peru: Spirit of the Andes

Pack your bags girls, its time to tick off one of your BIGGEST bucket-list places, we're headed to PERU!

Over two unforgettable weeks, we’ll road trip our way through some of the most captivating and diverse landscapes in South America. We’ll begin in Lima with a hands-on cooking class before heading south to the Ballestas Islands and the oasis of Huacachina, where we’ll glamp beneath the desert skies, sandboard, and 4WD across towering dunes. From there, we travel through Nazca, wander the white-stone streets of Arequipa, and stay with a family in Colca Canyon, hiking to ancient sites, learning about local farming practices, and soaking in hot springs after a big day out.

This journey is designed to experience Peru in layers. We travel by private transport and local buses, including a classic overnight bus, and stay in a mix of boutique hotels, homestays, and camping. We’ll kayak on Lake Titicaca, visit the floating Uros Islands, explore Cusco at our own pace, and finish with four unforgettable days trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The perfect balance of bucket-list moments, cultural connection, and adventure!

Highlights:

Trek the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and arrive on foot at one of the most iconic sites in the world.
Experience Lake Titicaca in the most unique & adventurous way - via kayak!
Visit the floating Uros Islands, islands that have been made from reed for centuries.
Stay with a local family in Colca Canyon, hike to ancient tombs, learn traditional farming practices and unwind in natural hot springs.
Glamp in the desert oasis of Huacachina and sandboard down towering golden dunes.
Cruise out to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and spot sea lions and seabirds along the rugged coastline.
Explore the white-stone city of Arequipa
Enjoy a free day exploring the high altitude town of Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire and Andean culture.
Travel with a supportive group of women who share your sense of adventure!

The Details:

Duration: 16 days

Dates: September 22 - October 7, 2026

Meeting place: Lima, Peru

Finishing place: Cusco, Peru

Group size: 14

Price: $5990 AUD
*Payment plans available

BOOK NOW

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Information

• 7 nights accomodation in comfortable hotels

•. 2 nights in a local homestay in Colca Canyon

•. 1 night Glamping in the desert oasis of Huacachina

•. 4 nights camping (1 on lake Titicaca and 3 on the Inca Trail)

•. 1 overnight bus journey
• 14 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, & 10 Dinners

• 1 WWJ trip leader & 1 local expert guide accompanying you from start to finish.

• Airport transfers on arrival and departure.

• Inca Trail permits, professional expedition team, and camping gear.

• All necessary permits & entry fees.

•. Local guides in Colca Canyon, Titicaca and the Inca Trail.

• Transportation during the trip by private and local buses including one night bus.

Meeting Point

We will be meeting in Lima, Peru, on the 22nd of September. You can book your flight arriving in on the 22nd or earlier. We will be having our official "meet and greet" around 12pm on the 22nd, so it would be good to arrive earlier than that to give you time to settle in.

A driver will be waiting for you at the Lima airport with your name on a card ready to bring you to the hotel.

Finishing Point

We will arrive back in Cusco after our trek on the 6th of October and stay that night in a hotel, so you can fly out any time the next day on the 7th of October.

Australian, United States, United Kingdom and most European Union passport holders do not require a visa in advance to enter Peru for tourism. A tourist entry stamp is issued on arrival, allowing a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Peru. Immigration officers may request proof of onward travel, so we recommend having a copy of your return or onward flight details available.

If you are travelling on a different passport, please check the visa requirements specific to your nationality ahead of departure, as requirements can vary.

If your flight to Peru transits through the United States, you will likely need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) in advance, even if you are only passing through the country.

Travel insurance is compulsory for this trip. You will need to send confirmation of your insurance to info@wildwomenjourneys.com before departure.

There are many different providers offering varying levels of cover, so we recommend comparing options and choosing a policy that suits you. Your insurance must include cover for high-altitude trekking up to 4,215m, hiking on the Inca Trail, medical assistance and emergency evacuation.

Please read your policy carefully to ensure you are adequately covered for all activities included in this itinerary.

What to bring:

Day pack for you to carry on hike. Make sure it has waist straps so it is comfortable to carry on long hiking days
Torchlight / Headlight
Sunglass and sun-cream
Hat
Beanie (for evenings on Inca Trail)
Gloves for early mornings at altitude
Down jacket for cold nights
Base layer thermal like wool or similar
Sweat wicking t-shirts
Fleece mid layer
Waterproof rain jacket
A few normal outfits for city days
Long and short hiking pants or leggings
Swimmers
Microfiber travel towel
Hiking boots - "broken in" and comfortable
Wool socks- a few pairs for hiking and one thick one for night

Light weight camp sandals (Crocs or Tevas are great to wear wool socks with)
Trekking poles (optional only if you feel your knees struggle with down hills or your worried about your endurance)
Any snacks you might want but you can also buy some in Peru
Toiletries
Any personal medications or first aid like blister care, pain relief, or anything you might like
Hand sanitiser
Camera/gopro
Chargers - international adapter
Power bank
Journal/book
2 x 1lt water bottles (recommend Lifestraw, Sawyer or Katadyn purifier bottles)
Optional: Eye mask and ear plugs if a light sleeper
Anything fun like games, crafts or instruments you want to bring =)

Season:

September and early October are a beautiful time to travel in Peru. It falls within the dry season in the Andes, which generally means clear skies and great trekking conditions, especially for the Inca Trail. That said, mountain weather can always be a little unpredictable, so it’s still important to bring a good rain jacket just in case.

That said, this trip moves through a huge variety of landscapes and climates, from the warm coastal desert near Lima and Huacachina to the high Andes around Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and the Inca Trail. During the day it can feel quite warm in the sun, especially at lower elevations, but mornings and evenings at altitude can be cold.

Temperatures can range from around 18–25°C during the day in coastal areas to near freezing at higher elevations at night, particularly while camping on the Inca Trail. Because of this, the key to packing for Peru is layers, so you can easily adjust as we move between climates and elevations.

Tipping is a normal part of travelling in Peru and a great way to show appreciation for the many people who help make our trip run smoothly. Throughout this journey we’ll be supported by quite a few different people behind the scenes, including our a local guide, drivers, homestay hosts in Colca Canyon, boat crews and community guides on Lake Titicaca, and the full trekking team on the Inca Trail including guides, cooks and porters. Because so many people contribute to making the experience possible, tipping is shared across a larger group than on most trips.

We know tipping can sometimes feel a little confusing (especially since it’s not very common in Australia), so we’ll make it super easy for you. For this trip, we’ll collect a tip kitty at the beginning of the journey which will cover the main tips for our guides, drivers and other local support staff we meet along the way. The largest portion of these tips goes to the Inca Trail trekking team, who work incredibly hard carrying equipment, preparing meals and making sure we are comfortable while camping in the mountains.

As a general guideline, we suggest budgeting around $400–$600 AUD per person for tipping across the whole trip. We’ll take care of organising and distributing the tips at the appropriate times so you don’t have to worry about when or how much to give. Easy peasy. =)

On the occasions where meals are not included and you’re paying separately at a restaurant or café, tipping is more relaxed but still customary in Peru. Leaving around 5–10% is typical and appreciated.

Altitude:

Much of this trip takes place at high altitude, particularly once we reach the Andes. In Peru, anything above 2,500m is considered high altitude, and we will spend several days between 3,000m and 4,200m. The highest point of the trip is Dead Woman’s Pass on the Inca Trail at 4,215m. (Sounds scary than it is, we promise!)

As you gain altitude, there is less oxygen available in the air, which means you may feel more out of breath than usual, especially on hills or stairs. This is completely normal and something everyone experiences to some degree. Even very fit people feel the effects of altitude.

Our itinerary is intentionally designed to help as much as possible with acclimatisation. We begin at sea level in Lima and gradually ascend over several days before reaching higher elevations in Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca and Cusco. By the time we begin the Inca Trail, we will already have spent multiple nights above 3,000m, giving your body time to adjust.

Common mild symptoms of altitude can include shortness of breath, headaches, fatigue, dizziness or difficulty sleeping. Rest, hydration and moving at a slow steady pace are key. Our guides are experienced in managing altitude and will monitor the group throughout the trek. There is no pressure to rush or keep up with anyone. We move together, and we prioritise safety at all times.

In the rare case that someone is unable to continue due to altitude, we have clear protocols in place, including guided descent and emergency evacuation if required. Peru has a well established trekking industry around the Inca Trail, and safety systems are in place to support travellers.

Is This Trip Right for Me?

This adventure is perfect for women who are excited by variety, challenge and cultural connection. We move through coastal deserts, high mountain villages, sacred lakes and ancient trails, so you need to be open to different environments, changing temperatures and a mix of accommodation styles.

Travelling in Peru, and in South America more broadly, can feel different to what many of us are used to at home. Timings may shift, roads can be slower, and plans sometimes adapt. Infrastructure, standards and daily rhythms are not always the same as in Australia, Europe or North America. A flexible mindset and sense of humour go a long way. Approaching these differences with curiosity and respect allows us to experience the country more authentically and appreciate it on its own terms.

We travel by private transport and local buses, including an overnight bus. We stay in boutique hotels, family homestays and camp on Lake Titicaca. Some nights are simple, some are comfortable, all are part of the adventure. If you are open minded, adaptable and excited by experiences that stretch you a little, you will thrive on this trip.

Altitude is also part of the experience. We gradually ascend to allow proper acclimatisation, and most travellers adjust well. You should feel comfortable spending time above 3,000m and following guidance around hydration, pacing and rest.

Fitness Level

This trip includes a four-day trek along the Inca Trail, so a good level of fitness is required. While the first half of the journey is a mix of cultural exploration, road trips and shorter hikes, the Inca Trail involves four consecutive days of hiking at altitude, including reaching 4,215m at the highest pass.

You should feel comfortable walking for 4 to 7 hours in a day, including uphill sections, uneven stone steps and sustained climbs. Altitude can make everything feel more challenging than it normally would, so having a solid base level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience.

In saying that, this is not a race. We walk at a steady, manageable pace, take regular breaks and support each other the entire way. You do not need to be an elite athlete, but you should feel confident spending long days on your feet in varied terrain.

Porters will carry your main duffel bag and the majority of camping equipment, so you will only need to carry a daypack with essentials such as water, snacks and layers.

Most importantly, this journey is for women who want to be part of something shared. If you value connection, laughter, growth and the kind of memories that stay with you long after you return home, you will fit right in.

Itinerary

Day 1, September 22: Arrive in Lima (Sea Level)

Welcome to Peru! We meet in Lima and begin our adventure with a hands-on Peruvian cooking class, diving straight into one of the most celebrated food cultures in the world. Peruvian cuisine is globally renowned for its bold flavours, fresh ingredients and unique fusion of Indigenous, Spanish and Asian influences. There is no better way to start our journey than by tasting it for ourselves. In the evening, we head to the Malecón, Lima’s clifftop boardwalk, to watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, the perfect start our trip as we get to know each other. After sunset, we return to our hotel to rest before our big road trip officially kicks off.

Meals Included: Early Dinner - We eat what we make in the cooking class, yum!

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2, September 23: Paracas & Huacachina (Sea Level to 400m)

We travel south along the Pacific coast to Paracas, where we take a boat tour to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands. Expect dramatic rock formations, sea lions and abundant birdlife. Later, we continue inland to the desert oasis of Huacachina. Here we settle into our glamping tents before heading out for an adrenaline-filled afternoon of sandboarding and 4WD adventures across towering golden dunes.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Glamping tents

Day 3, September 24: Huacachina to Nazca (520m)

After a relaxed morning in the oasis, we drive to Nazca. The afternoon is free to explore. You may choose to visit a local museum or viewpoint, or take an optional scenic flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines.

In the evening, we board our overnight bus to Arequipa and settle in for the journey south.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Night Bus

Day 4, September 25: Arequipa (2,335m)

This morning we arrive in Arequipa, known as the White City due to its volcanic stone architecture. Today is intentionally slower as we begin adjusting to altitude. You are free to explore the historic centre, visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, relax in a café overlooking the Plaza de Armas or simply rest and hydrate.

Meals Included: None included

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 5, September 26: Colca Canyon (3,200m to 3,600m)

We journey into the dramatic landscapes of Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The scenery shifts to sweeping Andean plains, terraced hillsides and traditional villages. We stay with a local family for the next two nights, experiencing daily life in the highlands, learning about traditional farming practices and slowing down to connect with our surroundings.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Homestay

Day 6, September 27: Colca Canyon Hiking & Hot Springs (Approx. 3,500m)

Today we hike approximately two hours to a viewpoint and archaeological site, visiting the Yuraq Qaqa tombs along the way. The landscape is wide and rugged, and condors are often seen soaring above the canyon. After our hike, we relax in nearby hot springs before returning to our homestay for a shared evening meal.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Homestay

Day 7, September 28: Colca Canyon to Puno (3,827m)

Today we’ve got a longer but beautiful drive of around 5 to 6 hours as we make our way to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This stretch of road is classic high Andes, wide open plains, herds of alpacas and llamas, snow-capped peaks in the distance and those big dramatic skies that make you feel very small in the best way. Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world and holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in Andean history. Its still blue waters stretch endlessly toward the horizon, surrounded by mountains. Tonight we settle into our hotel and rest up before our time out on the lake. We are now firmly at high altitude, so today is also about continuing to acclimatise. We keep things steady, stay hydrated and listen to our bodies as we settle into our hotel for the night before heading out onto the lake tomorrow.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 8, September 29: Taquile Island (Approx. 3,950m)

Time to jump on a boat as we travel across Lake Titicaca to Taquile Island. The lake feels immense and peaceful at this altitude. We kayak along the shoreline before setting up camp for the night. Camping here is simple but incredibly special, surrounded by open water and mountain views.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Day 9, September 30: Uros Islands & Return to Puno (3,827m)

Today we visit the remarkable floating Uros Islands, built entirely from layers of totora reeds that grow in Lake Titicaca. The Uros people are believed to predate the Inca civilisation and have lived in this region for centuries. The floating islands were originally created as a way to remain independent and mobile, allowing communities to move across the lake when needed and distance themselves from conflict on the mainland. Walking on the reed surface is a surreal experience, with layer upon layer of woven reeds beneath your feet that must be constantly maintained and replaced. Homes, boats and watchtowers are all crafted from the same material. We spend time learning about daily life on the lake and how the community continues to preserve its traditions while adapting to the modern world before returning to Puno for the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 10, October 1: Puno to Cusco (3,399m)

Today is a longer drive of around 6 to 7 hours as we make our way to Cusco, giving us time to watch Peru unfold outside the window as we move through mountain scenery and quiet villages. We’ll pass through small Andean towns, see the landscape shift as we travel, and settle into the rhythm of the journey. It’s a great chance to slow down and get to know each other a little bit more. You can nap, journal, listen to music, or simply stare out at the mountains as they roll past. We arrive in Cusco in the afternoon and settle into our hotel, with a couple of days to explore and acclimatise before we begin the Inca Trail.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 11, October 2: Cusco & Inca Trail Briefing (3,399m)

Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is a city where ancient stone walls meet Spanish colonial architecture, and its cobblestone streets, vibrant markets and surrounding mountain views make it one of the most atmospheric cities in South America. Today is yours to enjoy. You may choose to explore nearby Incan ruins, visit museums, shop at local markets, book a massage, relax in a café or simply rest and continue acclimatising. In the evening, we meet our trekking team for a full Inca Trail briefing where we’ll walk through what the next four days entail, review safety information and check gear. If you need any last-minute supplies, today is your opportunity to pick them up in Cusco before we begin.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 12, October 3: Time to begin the Inca Trail! (Approx. 2,600m to 3,000m)

We begin the Inca Trail with a gradual ascent through the Sacred Valley. The trail winds alongside the Urubamba River, passing small Incan ruins and green valleys. This is a steady introduction to trekking at altitude. We camp overnight surrounded by mountain scenery.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Day 13, October 4: Another day on the Inca Trail! (Up to 4,215m)

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day. We climb steadily through cloud forest into alpine terrain, reaching Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215m, the highest point of the trek. The views are expansive and dramatic. After celebrating at the summit, we descend to our campsite for the night.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Day 14, October 5: Inca Trail (Approx. 3,600m to 2,650m)

This is often considered the most scenic day. The trail rolls across mountain ridges, through misty cloud forest and past impressive Incan archaeological sites. The landscape becomes greener as we descend. We camp for our final night on the trail.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping

Day 15, October 6: Machu Picchu (2,430m)

We wake early and hike to the Sun Gate for our first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise. Walking into the citadel on foot is an unforgettable moment. After exploring the site with our guide, we return to Cusco for our final night together.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 16, October 7: Farewell & Final Departure

Today marks the end of our adventure together. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. From here, you may choose to fly home, stay on in Cusco a little longer, or continue exploring Peru. Many travellers visit Rainbow Mountain, explore more of the Sacred Valley, or head into the Amazon rainforest from Cusco, while others continue their journey through South America to destinations such as Bolivia, Chile or Colombia. However you choose to continue, you leave with new friendships, unforgettable memories and a deep sense of accomplishment.

Meals Included: Breakfast

BOOK NOW

Contact FAQ's T&C's

Wild Women Journeys

Peru: Spirit of the Andes

The Details:

Duration: 16 days

Dates: September 22 - October 7, 2026

Meeting place: Lima, Peru

Finishing place: Cusco, Peru

Group size: 14

Price: $5990 AUD
*Payment plans available

Gallery

Information

Is This Trip Right for Me?

Fitness Level

Contact FAQ's T&C's

Peru: Spirit of the Andes

The Details:

Duration: 16 days Dates: September 22 - October 7, 2026 Meeting place: Lima, Peru Finishing place: Cusco, Peru Group size: 14 ​ Price: $5990 AUD *Payment plans available

Gallery

Information

Duration: 16 days

Dates: September 22 - October 7, 2026

Meeting place: Lima, Peru

Finishing place: Cusco, Peru

Group size: 14

Price: $5990 AUD
*Payment plans available