Amazon - Cusco - Lake Titicaca
The journey
13-Day Peru Discovery: Amazon, Andes & Altiplano
This 13-day itinerary by TrueAndes offers a stunning contrast of ecosystems. Start your journey immersed in the biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest, then ascend to the highlands of Cusco, hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, visit the colorful Rainbow Mountain, and finish on the serene shores of Lake Titicaca.
We have designed this route for travelers who want to experience the "Big Three" (Jungle, Machu Picchu, Titicaca) with a touch of adventure. It includes the 2-day Short Inca Trail, perfect for those who want to hike into Machu Picchu without camping.
Day by day
Discovery Itinerary
Days 1-4: The Amazon Arrival in Lima and flight to Puerto Maldonado. 3 nights at a jungle eco-lodge with river activities and wildlife spotting. Fly to Cusco.
Days 5-6: Cusco & Sacred Valley Acclimatization in Cusco. Full-day tour of the Sacred Valley’s markets and ruins to prepare for the trek.
Days 7-8: Short Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Hike from Km 104 to the Sun Gate (hotel overnight). Next morning, guided tour of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
Rainbow Mountain
Day trip to hike Vinicunca (5,020m) for spectacular views.
Route of the Sun
Scenic bus journey from Cusco to Puno, stopping at Andahuaylillas and Raqchi.
Days 11-12: Lake Titicaca 2-day boat tour visiting Uros, Amantani (homestay), and Taquile islands. Authentic cultural connection.
Departure
Transfer to Juliaca airport for your flight to Lima.
What's included
Included
- Flights: Lima-Puerto Maldonado-Cusco and Juliaca-Lima.
- Accommodation: Hotels, Eco-Lodge, and Homestay.
- Trek: Short Inca Trail permit (hotel stay, no camping).
- Tours: Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, Titicaca, Amazon.
- Transport: All ground/river transfers included.
- Meals: Breakfast daily + full board in Amazon/Trek/Homestay.
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Questions before you go
Clear answers for planning this tour.
Does this tour involve camping?
No. The Short Inca Trail included here involves a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. The Amazon stay is in a lodge. The only rustic night is the homestay.
Is the Rainbow Mountain hike hard?
Yes, it is very high (5,000m+). We include it on Day 9 so you are acclimatized, but horses are available for rent if you need help.
Can I charge electronics in the Amazon?
Yes, lodges have electricity (usually via generator) at specific times. We recommend bringing extra batteries or power banks.
What is the boat like on Lake Titicaca?
We use safe, enclosed motorboats with comfortable seats and life jackets. The ride can be 2-3 hours between islands.
Do I need special boots for the jungle?
The lodge provides rubber boots for muddy trails. Comfortable hiking shoes/sneakers are fine for the lodge area.
Is the flight from Juliaca included?
Yes, the domestic flight from Juliaca (Puno) back to Lima is included in the package price.