Best ofPeru &Bolivia
$7695.00
Discovery
14 nights in Bolivia & Peru
What to expect
Machu Picchu
Explore the legendary Inca citadel
Rainbow Mountain
Hike the Mountain of Seven Colors
Uros & Taquile Islands
Meet traditional island communities
Uyuni Salt Flats
See surreal mirror-like salt landscapes
About this trip...
Discover the extraordinary contrasts of Peru and Bolivia on this unforgettable journey through South America’s most iconic landscapes and cultures. From Lima’s coastal elegance to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco, explore the Sacred Valley, marvel at Machu Picchu and hike to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. Cruise across the legendary waters of Lake Titicaca to visit the floating Uros islands and traditional communities of Taquile, before crossing into Bolivia to experience the dramatic Andean altiplano and the surreal beauty of the Uyuni Salt Flats. With guided touring, comfortable hotels and memorable dining along the way, this carefully paced adventure offers a rich blend of history, scenery and authentic cultural encounters.
What's included?
Airport Transfers-
Internal flights: Lima – Cusco, La Paz – Uyuni, Uyuni – La Paz
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Transfer from Copacabana to La Paz, crossing the Titicaca Strait by motor boat
Private Room
Solos Board: Breakfast daily, eight lunches & seven dinners
Welcome drink served at first dinner
Hike to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) -
Full day speed boat trip on Lake Titicaca to the floating island of Uros and to the island of Taquile
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Guided tour of Lima including Aliaga House, Cathedral and Larco Museum
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Ballestas Islands boat tour & visit to the Huacachina Lagoon
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Half-day tour in Cusco to Coricancha, Cathedral, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara & Tambomachay
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Explore the Sacred Valley - Chinchero, Living Museum of Yucay & Ollantaytambo
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Visit to Machu Picchu
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Uyuni Salt Flat Adventure Tour: Train Cemetery, a salt processing workshop in Colchani & Incahuasi Island
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Visit to Andahuaylillas, the archaeological site of Raqchi & the Pukara complex
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Evening with live music and traditional dances
Accompanying Solos Tour Leader
What's extra:
• International flights are not included
• Let us help you book them! Learn more.
• Travel insurance
• Tips & drinks
• Meals when not included in the itinerary
• Activities when not included in the itinerary
Itinerary
- Welcome to Lima
- Discover historic Lima
- Ballestas Islands & desert oasis
- Into the Andes: Lima to Cusco
- Cusco & Inca heritage
- Sacred Valley & journey to Machu Picchu
- Marvel at Machu Picchu
- Rainbow Mountain: The Mountain of Seven Colours
- Scenic journey to Puno
- Lake Titicaca & Island Communities
- From Peru to Bolivia & arrival in La Paz
- Uyuni Salt Flats
- Uyuni Salt Flats & Altiplano serenity
- Return to La Paz & farewell celebrations
- Departure day
What you'll be doing
Day One: Welcome to Lima
- Dinner included
- Overnight in Lima
Day Two: Discover historic Lima
We enjoy a leisurely morning, giving us time to adjust to the time zone or explore Miraflores at our own pace. In the afternoon, we set out to discover Lima’s colonial heritage. We visit the historic Aliaga House, inhabited by the same family for more than five centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into Peru’s past. Continuing to the elegant Plaza Mayor, we admire its grand architecture and visit Lima Cathedral, learning about the city’s role during Spanish rule. Later, we explore the renowned Larco Museum, home to an impressive collection spanning over 5,000 years of Peruvian history. Gold artefacts, ceramics and beautifully curated galleries bring ancient cultures to life. Our day ends with dinner in the museum’s atmospheric garden restaurant before returning to the hotel.
- Breakfast & dinner included
Day Three: Ballestas Islands & desert oasis
An early start takes us south along Peru’s dramatic coastline towards Paracas. Here, we board a boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, a wildlife-rich sanctuary often compared to the Galápagos. As we cruise past rugged cliffs, we look out for sea lions, pelicans, seabirds and Humboldt penguins, while learning about the mysterious Candelabro geoglyph carved into the desert hillside. After lunch, we continue to Huacachina, a beautiful oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. We take time to walk beside the lagoon, enjoy the peaceful scenery and capture memorable photos before returning to Lima in the evening after a rewarding day of striking natural contrasts.
- Breakfast & lunch included
Day Four: Into the Andes: Lima to Cusco
Today we fly into the Andes to Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel and spend the afternoon taking things gently to acclimatize to the altitude. Our Tour Leader shares helpful tips to help everyone adjust comfortably. Those who wish may enjoy a short, relaxed walk through nearby streets, where impressive Inca stonework blends seamlessly with Spanish colonial architecture. The evening is free for independent dining, with the option to join the group for dinner.
- Breakfast included
Day Five: Cusco & Inca heritage
This morning we explore Cusco’s rich history on a guided tour. We begin at Coricancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, before visiting the impressive Cathedral, home to remarkable colonial art and intricate craftsmanship. Leaving the city center, we travel into the surrounding hills to discover remarkable archaeological sites. At Sacsayhuamán, we marvel at enormous stones precisely fitted together without mortar. We continue to Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay, each revealing different aspects of Inca engineering and spirituality. Returning to Cusco, we enjoy a free afternoon to browse markets, relax in cafés or simply soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city.
- Breakfast included
Day Six: Sacred Valley & journey to Machu Picchu
We travel through the breathtaking Sacred Valley, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and traditional villages. Our first stop is Chinchero*, known for its terraces and weaving traditions, where we see local artisans at work. At the Living Museum of Yucay, we learn about ancient craft techniques still used today before enjoying a traditional Andean lunch. Later, we explore Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns, dominated by an impressive hilltop fortress.
In the afternoon, we board the panoramic Vistadome train**, enjoying spectacular views as we travel through valleys and cloud forest to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
* The visit to Chinchero Church will be from the outside only; entrance is not included.
**Due to baggage restrictions on the train, only carry-on luggage (backpack, purse or briefcase) weighing no more than 8kg/17.6 lbs is permitted. It is therefore necessary to take a small overnight bag to Machu Picchu. On arrival in Aguas Calientes, your overnight bag will be transferred to your hotel while you visit Machu Picchu. Your main luggage will be stored at your hotel in Cusco.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Seven: Marvel at Machu Picchu
Today we experience one of the highlights of our journey — Machu Picchu. A short bus ride brings us to the legendary citadel, dramatically set among misty mountain peaks. With our expert guide, we explore temples, terraces and ceremonial spaces while learning about Inca history and daily life. We pause at scenic viewpoints to take in the beauty and mystery of this extraordinary site. Afterwards, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before traveling back by train through the Sacred Valley and onward to Cusco for a relaxing evening.
- Breakfast & lunch included
Day Eight: Rainbow Mountain - The Mountain of Seven Colours
We set out early for an unforgettable excursion into the high Andes. Travellng through remote villages and sweeping landscapes, we reach the starting point for our walk to Rainbow Mountain. Surrounded by grazing alpacas and snow-capped peaks, we gradually ascend to the viewpoint where vibrant mineral layers create striking bands of colour across the mountainside. After time for photos and rest, we descend and enjoy lunch before returning to Cusco.
- Walking Distance: 7.5 km / 4.7 miles
- Maximum Altitude: Vinicunca – 16,700 feet / 5,100 m.a.s.l.
- Minimum Altitude: Pitumarca – 11,712 feet / 3,570 m.a.s.l.
- Duration: 3 hrs. 30 min. (walking roundtrip)
- Level: Moderate
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Nine: Scenic journey to Puno
Today we travel across the Andean plateau towards Lake Titicaca. Along the way, we stop at Andahuaylillas, home to a beautifully decorated church often called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” We continue to the archaeological site of Raqchi and later visit Pukara, learning about cultures that pre-date the Incas. Surrounded by vast open landscapes and mountain scenery, we enjoy lunch en route before arriving in Puno on the shores of the legendary lake.
- Breakfast & lunch included
Day Ten: Lake Titicaca & Island Communities
Today we experience one of South America’s most fascinating cultural encounters as we explore Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. After breakfast, we travel to the port and board our boat, setting out across deep blue waters surrounded by vast Andean landscapes. Our first stop is the remarkable floating islands of the Uros people, constructed entirely from layers of totora reeds that grow naturally in the lake. Here, we are warmly welcomed by local families who explain how the islands are built, maintained and even expanded using traditional techniques passed down through generations. We learn about daily life, fishing traditions and how this unique community has adapted to life on the water.
Continuing across the lake, we arrive at Taquile Island, known for its strong community traditions and UNESCO-recognised textile heritage. As we walk along gentle paths with sweeping views across the lake, we gain insight into local customs where weaving plays a central role in social identity. A locally prepared lunch offers the chance to enjoy authentic island cuisine while taking in the peaceful surroundings, far removed from modern city life. After time to explore and admire the scenery, we return by boat to Puno. This evening, we gather for dinner at our hotel, reflecting on a day rich in culture and connection.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Eleven: From Peru to Bolivia & arrival in La Paz
Today we continue our journey across the Andes as we travel overland from Peru into Bolivia. The scenic route follows the shores of Lake Titicaca, offering ever-changing views of rural villages, grazing llamas and wide-open landscapes. After crossing the border, we continue to Copacabana, a charming lakeside town known for its important religious sanctuary and relaxed atmosphere. After lunch, we make a memorable crossing of the Titicaca Strait by boat while our vehicle travels separately — a unique part of the journey that adds to the sense of adventure.
As we approach La Paz, the landscape changes dramatically, revealing a vast city set within a deep mountain basin surrounded by snow-capped peaks. At over 3,600 metres above sea level, La Paz is one of the highest capital cities in the world. After checking into our hotel, we have time to rest or take a gentle walk nearby. This evening, we come together for dinner and begin discovering Bolivian cuisine and culture.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Twelve: Uyuni Salt Flats
This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Uyuni, the gateway to one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. On arrival, we begin our adventure with a visit to the small village of Colchani, the entrance to the Uyuni Salt Flats. Here, we learn how local families traditionally harvest and process salt, gaining insight into daily life in this remote corner of Bolivia. From Colchani, we venture onto the vast white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats, the largest salt desert on Earth, stretching over 10,000 square kilometres across the Bolivian Altiplano.
Soon, the landscape opens into the immense white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats — a natural wonder stretching beyond the horizon. The sense of scale is breathtaking, with endless geometric salt patterns beneath vast skies creating a surreal landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. We stop at the “Ojos de Agua” natural springs and visit Incahuasi Island, an ancient coral formation now covered with towering cacti, some over a century old. From here, panoramic views across the salt flats provide fantastic photo opportunities. As the light changes throughout the afternoon, the landscape shifts in colour and atmosphere. Later, we transfer to our unique salt-built hotel for a memorable overnight stay.
- Breakfast & picnic lunch included
Day Thirteen: Uyuni Salt Flats & Altiplano serenity
This morning we visit one of Uyuni’s most unusual landmarks — the haunting Train Cemetery on the outskirts of town. Here, a collection of abandoned locomotives and railway cars lies scattered across the desert, silent reminders of Bolivia’s once-thriving mining industry and the railway boom of the early twentieth century. The rusting trains, set against the stark Altiplano landscape, create a strangely beautiful and atmospheric scene.
Following our visit, we return to the hotel where the remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Bolivian Altiplano. The vast open landscapes and high-altitude light create an atmosphere of calm that many travellers find unexpectedly moving. It’s a wonderful opportunity to slow the pace, reflect on the journey so far, or simply take in the extraordinary scenery.
- Breakfast included
Day Fourteen: Return to La Paz & farewell celebrations
We say goodbye to Uyuni this morning as we transfer to the airport for our return flight to La Paz. Back in the capital, we transfer to our hotel and enjoy some free time to explore further. Those who wish may visit colorful local markets, browse traditional handicrafts or relax in a café while watching daily life unfold in this vibrant city. La Paz offers a fascinating blend of indigenous traditions and contemporary culture, providing a fitting final glimpse of Bolivia.
- Breakfast & dinner included
Day Fifteen: Departure day
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our onward journeys home. As our adventure comes to an end, we depart with unforgettable memories of spectacular landscapes, rich cultures and the companionship that makes traveling with Solos so special.
- Breakfast included
Accommodations
(as specified or similar)- Day 1 - 10 | Peru
- Day 11 - 14 | Bolivia
Day 1 - 10 | Peru
We stay in comfortable hotels throughout as detailed below (or similar);
- Lima - Arawi Miraflores Express - Three nights
- Cusco - Jose Antonio Cusco - Two nights
- Machu Picchu - Inti Punku Machu Picchu Hotel & Suites - One night
- Cusco - Jose Antonio Cusco - Two nights
- Puno - Jose Antonio Puno - Two nights
Day 11 - 14 | Bolivia
We stay in comfortable hotels throughout as detailed below (or similar);
- La Paz - Hotel Presidente - One night
- Uyuni - Cielo y Sal Hotel - Two nights
- La Paz - Hotel Presidente - One night
Dates & Prices
Essential Information
Whether you'd like us to arrange your flights or prefer to book your own, we're here to make the process easy. Our team can secure flights from the location that suits you best or provide all the arrival and departure details you'll need if booking independently.
Arrival & departure airport transfers are included for the majority of our trips EXCEPT our UK Breaks, regardless if you book your own flights or if we book them for you. To learn more about flight options, payments, and transfers, click here.
As part of health & safety we do require all our guests to be able to manage the demands of the trip. A good level of fitness/mobility is required as we include plenty of sightseeing/travelling, some with early starts and at high altitude. It is important to consider you will be sightseeing and walking at altitudes over 4000m and a good level of fitness is required for these parts of the tour.
You also must be mindful that when visiting a country with different cuisine and culture, special dietary requests cannot always be made as readily available with great choice. Please see the day by day itinerary for details of the programme. The order of the itinerary and events may be subject to change according to traffic, weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances beyond control.
High Altitude Awareness
Several parts of this tour take place at significant altitude, including Cusco, Lake Titicaca, La Paz and Rainbow Mountain. Some travellers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath or disturbed sleep. We strongly recommend speaking with your GP before travel, particularly if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including heart, lung or blood pressure concerns.
To help with acclimatisation, the itinerary has been carefully planned with gradual altitude increases and slower-paced days where possible. We encourage guests to walk slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol initially and follow guidance from the Tour Leader and local guides.
Approximate altitudes:
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Cusco – 3,399m
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Lake Titicaca / Puno – 3,800m
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La Paz – 3,650m
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Rainbow Mountain – up to 5,200m
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Uyuni Salt Flats – approx. 3,650m
Participation in higher altitude excursions should be carefully considered based on personal fitness and comfort levels.
Walking & Terrain
This is an active sightseeing tour and includes walking on uneven surfaces, cobblestones, steps without handrails and natural terrain. Archaeological sites, mountain viewpoints and rural areas may include:
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uneven stone pathways
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loose gravel and sand
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steep or high steps
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limited seating or rest areas
Walking aids can be helpful but guests must be independently mobile and able to manage luggage and hotel access without assistance.
Early Starts & Travel Days
Due to distances between destinations and to avoid crowds at key sites, several days involve early departures, sometimes before breakfast. There are also long but scenic overland journeys, particularly between Cusco and Puno and during border crossings into Bolivia. Comfort stops are included, but flexibility and patience are essential when travelling in remote regions.
Climate & Weather Conditions
Weather can vary greatly throughout the tour:
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Lima: mild coastal climate
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Cusco & Andes: warm sunshine by day, cold mornings and evenings
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Lake Titicaca & Uyuni: strong sun, wind and very cold nights
Temperatures can change rapidly, so layered clothing is essential. High-altitude sun is intense even on cloudy days.
Food & Dietary Requirements
Peruvian and Bolivian cuisine is varied and enjoyable but can differ significantly from European diets. While we do our best to communicate dietary requirements, choices may be limited in remote areas and substitutions cannot always be guaranteed. Guests with severe allergies or highly restrictive diets should carefully consider suitability before booking.
Meals may be served at local restaurants where menus are fixed for groups.
Transport & Infrastructure
Standards of roads, vehicles and local infrastructure may differ from those in the UK. Some journeys include winding mountain roads or rural routes where travel times can vary due to weather or local conditions. Flexibility and a spirit of adventure are important parts of the experience.
Luggage Restrictions – Machu Picchu Train
Due to railway regulations:
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Only one small overnight bag is permitted on the train to/from Machu Picchu.
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Main luggage will be safely stored at the Cusco hotel.
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Guests must be able to pack and carry their own overnight essentials.
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Machu Picchu Visit:
- The current restrictions on visits to Machu Picchu allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide during the first entry. If the visitor tours an alternate route (Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu) the passenger will have 3 hours to for this purpose, additional to the 4 hours in the citadel. If the passenger wishes to enter the citadel again during the afternoon shift or the next day, he must acquire previously an additional ticket to enter in the new shift. There is no ticket sale in the archaeological zone.
- In all train services to Machu Picchu, the passenger can carry only hand luggage (backpack, bag or briefcase) weighing no more than 8kg / 17.6 lb on the train to/from Machu Picchu. Allowed size: 62 linear inches 157cm (height + length + width).
- When on board the train, carry the same document that you presented to the agency, given that the train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu will be issued with the same information.
Responsible Travel & Local Culture
We visit traditional communities where customs and lifestyles differ from our own. Guests are asked to respect local traditions, ask permission before photographing people and dress modestly when visiting religious or rural areas.
Flexibility of Itinerary
Travel in remote regions requires flexibility. The order of visits, transport schedules and excursions may occasionally change due to weather, local regulations, altitude considerations or operational factors. Any adjustments will always be made in the best interest of guest safety and enjoyment.
Lima Airport to Miraflores Hotel
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50–70 minutes, depending on traffic
(Lima traffic can be heavy, particularly during peak hours.)
La Paz Hotel to La Paz Airport
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30–40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and time of day
Please note that traffic conditions in both cities can vary, and transfer times may be longer during rush hour.
This tour covers a wide variety of climates and altitudes, from coastal Lima to high Andean mountain regions and the Uyuni Salt Flats. Temperatures can change quickly throughout the day, so packing layers is essential. Comfort and practicality are key, particularly for sightseeing at altitude and on uneven terrain.
What to Wear
We recommend comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and sightseeing. Lightweight clothing works well during warmer daytime temperatures, while warmer layers are essential for mornings, evenings and higher altitude destinations.
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Lightweight tops and breathable clothing for daytime sightseeing
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Warm layers such as fleece, jumper or insulated jacket
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Waterproof or windproof jacket for mountain weather
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Comfortable walking trousers or travel trousers
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Good quality walking shoes or trainers with grip (already worn in)
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Warm hat, scarf and gloves for early mornings and high-altitude visits
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Sun hat or cap for strong daytime sun
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Smart-casual outfit for group dinners and evenings
Please note that modest dress is recommended when visiting churches, religious sites and local communities (shoulders and knees covered where possible).
What to Pack
Packing thoughtfully will help you stay comfortable throughout the journey.
Essential items
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Small day backpack for daily excursions
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Refillable water bottle
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High-factor sunscreen and lip balm (sun is stronger at altitude)
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Sunglasses with UV protection
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Personal medications (carried in hand luggage)
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Travel insurance details and copies of important documents
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Insect repellent (particularly for lower altitude areas)
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Hand sanitiser and personal toiletries
For high altitude & comfort
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Electrolyte tablets or hydration sachets
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Snacks for longer travel days
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Walking poles (optional but helpful for uneven terrain)
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Moisturiser — air can be very dry at altitude
Luggage Advice
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A suitcase suitable for multiple hotel stays is recommended.
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A small overnight bag is required for the Machu Picchu stay due to train luggage restrictions.
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Your main luggage will be securely stored in Cusco during this time.
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Porterage may not always be available, so guests should be able to manage their own luggage when required.
Top Packing Tip
Weather in the Andes can include sunshine, wind and cold temperatures all in one day. Dressing in removable layers will ensure you remain comfortable throughout the tour.
We recommend that you check passport and visa requirements for the country you are visiting at the State Department if you have a U.S. Passport. Most countries require that your passport have at least six months validity when traveling internationally, and many require that you have one to two blank visa pages for either an entry stamp or visa. As a general rule, please check that your passport has six months validity beyond your planned trip, and if not, please renew your passport with plenty of time to provide Solos with your updated passport information by the final payment due date.
Not sure what travel documents you need? Our trusted partner, sherpa°, makes it easy to check visa and entry requirements based on your destination and passport. One quick check now means smooth sailing later. Click here to learn more.
Peru
The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN).
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Notes are available in 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 soles.
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Coins are widely used for small purchases.
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Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants, particularly in Lima and Cusco.
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In smaller towns and local markets, cash is preferred.
US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but change will usually be given in soles. We recommend carrying small denomination notes for taxis, tips and small purchases.
ATMs are widely available in major cities including Lima, Cusco and Puno.
Bolivia
The official currency of Bolivia is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB).
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Notes are available in 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 bolivianos.
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Smaller denominations are useful for local markets and tips.
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Card acceptance is more limited than in Peru, particularly in smaller towns such as Uyuni.
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Cash is essential when travelling in more remote areas.
US dollars may be exchanged locally, but notes should be clean and undamaged as worn bills are often refused.
ATMs are available in La Paz and larger towns, though availability can be limited in rural regions.
