Peru – From Sea to Summit: June 27th – July 9th 2026
June 27th - July 9th 2026
- 13 Days
- June 27th - July 9th 2026
- 6 Destinations
- Min People: 8
- Max People: 16
- 16 Meals Included
- Boutique Hostels & Guesthouses
About this trip
Be ready for a proper adventure that takes you from the heights of the Andes all the way down to Peru’s wild coastline, mixing iconic hikes with culture, food and some very unreal scenery.
This trip is made for people who like to get out and about on their feet. You will hike ancient Salkantay trails, work your way towards Machu Picchu, and earn those views rather than just ticking them off. In between the big walking days, there is time to soak up local life, explore desert dunes, spot wildlife along the coast and share plenty of laughs with the group.
Everything important is organised for you, so you can focus on the good stuff. Expect a social group, a great balance of challenge and fun, and that unbeatable feeling of finishing a day on the trail knowing you really experienced Peru, step by step, from summit to sea.
Arrival & Departure Location
Start in Lima
Finish in Cusco
Visiting
Lima
Paracas
Huacachina
Arequipa
Cusco
Machu Picchu
Accommodation
Boutique Hostels (& Glamping on hike)
Trip Highlights
- Machu Picchu
- 4 Day Salkantay Trek
- Sunset Desert Oasis Picnic
- Arequipa Food Tour
- Sand Boarding
- Visit Nazca Lines
- Islas Ballestas Boat Tour (see sealions, penguins and more!)
- Authentic Peruvian Cooking Class
- Famous train from Machu Picchu to Cusco
- 16 Meals
- 12 Nights Boutique Hostel Accommodation
- Experienced Local Tour Guide (+ a Group Leader)
- All listed Activities
- All Internal Transportation by bus
- Personal Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
- Visa Fees (if applicable)
- Optional Activities
- Hiking Rental Gear (approx €30) and bottled water on hike
- Some Meals and Personal Expenses
- International Flights
- Tips for local guides (optional but recommended €30)
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Arrive in Lima and start getting to know the city on a guided walking tour, taking in its historic streets, lively neighbourhoods and first tastes of Peruvian culture. In the evening, we’ll meet up for a welcome briefing followed by a group dinner, the perfect chance to settle in, ask questions and get to know your new besties.
Day 2: Lima to Paracas
Today is a travel day, with an early start as we make our way south along the coast. We’ll stop en route to visit the historic Hacienda San José, before continuing on to Paracas. Once we arrive, the evening is yours to explore this laid-back coastal town, grab some food, enjoy the sea air and settle in after a big day on the road.
Day 3: Islas Ballestas and travel to Huacachina
Spend the morning exploring the “Poor Man’s Galápagos” with a boat trip out to the Islas Ballestas, where you’ll spot sea lions, penguins and a whole host of coastal wildlife. After returning to shore, we’ll hop back on the bus and head inland to Huacachina. The evening is all about desert magic, with a relaxed oasis picnic followed by sandboarding as the sun sets over the dunes.
Day 4: Huacachina to Arequipa (overnight bus & Nazca Lines)
Today is a long travel day (honestly one of our favourite parts of group travel), with plenty of time to chat, nap and take in the changing scenery. We’ll stop en route to visit the mysterious Nazca Lines before continuing on to the beautiful city of Arequipa, arriving in the evening ready to settle in and explore.
Day 5: Arequipa Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Arequipa, Peru’s beautiful “White City”, set beneath the dramatic backdrop of surrounding volcanoes. Spend the day wandering its historic centre, relaxing in leafy plazas, and visiting local markets. It’s the perfect chance to slow the pace a little, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy one of Peru’s most liveable cities at your own rhythm.
Day 6: Arequipa Food & Culture Tour
Today we’ll explore more of Arequipa, trying local delicacies along the way. We’ll also visit the famous Mummy Juanita, one of Peru’s most fascinating archaeological discoveries, before enjoying some free time to soak up the atmosphere of the White City.
Day 7: Arequipa to Cusco
Another long travel day, but with some seriously beautiful views as we make our way from Arequipa to the incredible Cusco. We’ll stop off at Lagunillas along the way to stretch the legs and take in the scenery, before continuing on to Cusco and settling in for the evening.
Day 8: Welcome to Cusco & Cooking Class
Today is an acclimatisation day in Cusco, so it’s all about taking things easy and letting your body adjust to the altitude. Spend the morning resting up or wandering through the colourful local markets, before coming together in the afternoon for an authentic local cooking class where you’ll get hands-on making and, of course, eating some seriously incredible food.
Day 9: Salkantay Day 1 - Humantay Lake
Early Pickup as we head to start Day 1 of our multi day trek to Machu Picchu! Today we hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake – 4200 metres and sleep in Mountain Sky Cabins.
Day 1 Summary: – Distance: 10 km – Duration: 5–6 hours – Difficulty: Moderate.
Camp Altitude 4000m.
Day 10: Salkantay Day 2 - Paso Salkantay
Today is the most challenging day as we summit the Salkantay Pass at 4700m.
Distance: 22 km – Duration: 9–10 hours – Difficulty: High – Maximum
Altitude: 4,700 meters above sea level – Camp altitude: 2,900 meters above sea level.
Day 11: Salkantay Day 3 - Aguas Calientes
Today we have a coffee tour, a hike through the Santa Teresa Valley and a hike along the trrain tracks to the hydroelectric plant! Stay in a hotel before the big day tomorrow.
Distance: 25 km – Duration: 9–10 hours – Difficulty: Moderate – prolonged
Day 12: Machu Picchu
Today is the big day. From Aguas Calientes, you’ll have the choice to hike or take the bus for the final stretch up to Machu Picchu. We’ll explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World and, in our very biased opinion, the most impressive of them all, with a guided tour of this iconic site.
Afterwards, we’ll make our way back to Cusco on the famous scenic train before coming together for a final group dinner to celebrate an unforgettable journey.
Day 13: Goodbyes!
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and say your goodbyes to the group. The guide will be available to assist with onward travel plans and provide recommendations for the rest of your adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age range for this trip?
A lot of our trips have an average age of 21-45. However, ANYONE with a sense of adventure is welcome (though must be 18+).
What sort of accommodation will there be?
We stay shared accommodation in boutique hostels, sharing with other members of the trip. While on the multi day hike, we stay in a mixture of glamping pods and hostels/hotels. While we strive to provide the best accommodation available in each location, please keep in mind that Craic On Travels is a budget-friendly adventure holiday provider, and standards of quality may vary across the countries we visit.
Are there long travel days?
Yes. Getting between regions often involves long bus journeys. These are an important part of seeing different sides of Peru and are factored into the itinerary, but patience and flexibility are needed.
Is this trip for me?
This trip is best suited to people who enjoy active, sometimes challenging travel. It includes long bus journeys, early starts, tough hiking days at altitude and shared accommodation. If you are comfortable being a bit tired at times, like earning your experiences rather than cruising through them, and enjoy the reward that comes with adventure you will get a lot from this trip.
What fitness level do I need for the Salkantay Trek?
You should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable walking for several hours a day over consecutive days. The trek includes uphill sections and high altitude up to 4600m, so being used to regular walking, hiking, or cardio-based exercise will help. You do not need to be an athlete, but some preparation beforehand will make the experience far more enjoyable.
Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what some of our past legends had to say:
16 May 2026
Thailand May 2026
What can I say? A group of 14 strangers at the start of our adventure quickly turned into lifelong friends. After only a few hours together, we were already making memories, sharing laughs, and eventually saying some very emotional goodbyes with plenty of promises to meet up again! Armeen was our tour guide and honestly, what a man! He was amazing from start to finish — the best craic, a brilliant singer, and an incredible photographer… he knows all the angles! He was so organised and made everyone feel comfortable and at ease right from the beginning. Ayla was ...
16 May 2026
First solo trip and…
This was my first solo trip and I never felt more secure and safe with craic on travels. They took care of everything and also gave me a lovely first solo holiday to remember, as well as so many amazing connections with all the girls ❤️ would love to travel with them again someday!
08 May 2026
Philippines 2026
I had a lovely experience with the Craic on Travels trip to The Philippines. The itinerary was excellent, we did major bucket list activities but also some nice wholesome activities like bracelet making. We also had quite a bit of free time in the afternoons which was great. The Philippines can be a bit difficult to navigate with all the different islands so a group tour is the perfect and stress free way to do it. Would go again in a heartbeat ❤️
30 Apr 2026
This was my second trip with Craic On…
This was my second trip with Craic On Travels, and once again, it completely exceeded my expectations. After travelling to Thailand in April 2025, I’ve just returned from the Philippines in April 2026 — and I’m still blown away by how incredible it was. From the excursions to the accommodation and even the travel in between, everything was so well organised and enjoyable. The whole experience felt seamless, and I always felt comfortable, safe, and genuinely welcomed. Last year, I travelled with Colin and Isabelle, whose passion for what they do really shines through in every detail. This year, ...
27 Apr 2026
Amazing
This was my 2nd trip with Craic on and once again they never failed to impress. The trip was ran amazingly with our tour guides Roisin and Izzy who were the most helpful and kind leaders who looked after us so well. The trip left me with 19 new friends and was the most incredible experience! for anyone wanting to get away rather solo or with friends this is the company to go with. 100% will be doing another trip
26 Apr 2026
Was a fantastic trip and got a lot done…
Was a fantastic trip and got a lot done in 10 days, Isabelle is a lovely person and did a great job of making sure everyone felt comfortable and happy. Would go on another trip again 10/10🫶🏻
24 Apr 2026
Amazing trip to the Philippines
We enjoyed an amazingly well organised trip to the Philippines with craic on travels. Both of our guides, Roisin and Izzy were fabulous and took all the stress out of travelling for the group. Couldn’t recommend craic on travels more!!
24 Apr 2026
An unforgettable holiday
I’ve just returned from the best trip to the Philippines with Craic on Travels. From the start Colin and Isabelle were so helpful with any questions I had. We had the best hosts, Roisin and Izzy. From the first day they made 18 strangers feel like best friends. Everything from start to finish was so well organised, plenty of activities but also lots of free time. Roisin and Izzy brought so much energy to the group. I am so glad I went on this trip and would highly recommend using Craic on Travels. It was such an incredible experience ...
24 Apr 2026
Unbelievable experience
I had the best trip to the Philippines with Craic on. I met the best bunch of girls we all got on so well! Roisín and Izzy made the trip so stress free and so well organized. Couldn’t have asked for better, they were so sound and made sure everyone was always good and kept energy high throughout. Even on our downtime we spent it together. Honestly it was such an unforgettable trip and I’ve made friends and memories for life🤩 so glad I picked Craic on and I will be going again! I highly recommend them!
24 Apr 2026
The Philippines
I’ve just returned from the Island Escape Philippines trip and I’m honestly lost for words at how incredible it was. From the very beginning, Colin was amazing—always quick to answer any questions or concerns before the trip. Roissin and Izzy, our tour guides, thought of absolutely everything and quickly became part of all the laughs and memories we shared as a group. If you’re thinking about booking, just go for it—you won’t regret it. I’ve made friends for life!
23 Apr 2026
An incredible experience from start to finish!
This is my second time travelling with Craic On Travels and once again, it was an incredible experience! Isabelle and Colin create the most special and unique trips, including activities and stays that you wouldn't get on your usual group trip (like our stay at Tsumugu Guesthouse!) and because of this, they bring together such a lovely bunch of people to share the experience with! All of our activities in Japan were so thoughtfully put together, creating an itinerary that really gave us a sense of the country and the culture. Isabelle also had a few surprises up her ...
21 Apr 2026
My first trip with Craic On exceeded every expectation…
My first trip with Craic On exceeded every expectation I had and then some. I originally came across them on TikTok, saw a video about a Japan trip, and booked it on impulse. Honestly, if you are even half thinking about it, just go for it. It is the kind of decision you will thank yourself for later. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between iconic sights and meaningful cultural experiences. Of course, you see the must visit spots, but what really sets it apart are the moments you would never plan on your own. Staying in a traditional ...
19 Apr 2026
1st time with craic on travels
It was my 1st time travelling with craic on travels and l with knowing what the itinerary is which I personally like as it certainly helps take the pressure off trying to figure it out on what we do and where we go, the whole experience exceeded beyond imagination of how good it was, Isabelle led the trip along with the ever so impressive and amazing tour guide tiaga and you couldn’t of met such wonderful and formative people both in professionalism and kindness, without them the trip would of never been as amazing as they made the dream ...
19 Apr 2026
I’m honestly blown away by my…
I’m honestly blown away by my experience with Craic On Travels. I had never done a trip like this before and showed up not knowing a single person. By the end, I left with 10 new best friends and a full year of travel plans to keep the adventure going. Our guide was incredible and every part of the trip went beyond what I expected. 11 out of 10, I will absolutely be traveling with COT again.
19 Apr 2026
Japan April 2026 Trip
I just got back from an unforgettable trip to Japan with Isabelle and our local guide, Taiga—and I’m still in awe of the experience they created. Every detail of the itinerary felt intentional, blending culture, adventure, and genuine connection in such a seamless way. What really stood out was the atmosphere they created: safe, welcoming, and full of kind, like-minded people. It felt like being part of something special. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it. Can’t wait for my next adventure with Craic on Travels. - Maeve
18 Apr 2026
Had such an Amazing experience…
Had such an Amazing experience travelling the Phillipines with craic on. Our guides Roisin and Izzy were Amazing and really made the trip an unforgettable experience ❤️
10 Apr 2026
Uganda 2026
I attended the Uganda trip with Craic on Travels in March/April 2026 and had an incredible experience. The schedule was jam‑packed and we genuinely did everything we possibly could — every day was full and exciting from start to finish. Everything was very well organised, and our guides, Chris, Ibrah, and Ivan, were extremely knowledgeable and brilliant at spotting animals on safari. Special shout out to Chris for answering all of my (many!) questions throughout the trip. The group itself was amazing, with a great sense of community. I’d highly recommend Craic on Travels and would absolutely book with ...
10 Apr 2026
The Uganda Safari was a dream come true!
I recently just finished my first ever Craic On Travels trip to Uganda. I’m lucky enough to say I’ve done my fair share of travel over the last 10 years but this trip tops them ALL! From start to finish the trip was incredible. It was fun, perfectly paced, a good mix of adventure and culture. I’ve never seen so much wildlife in my LIFE!! And we were lucky enough to have some of the BEST tour guides who were incredibly knowledgeable on all things safari! (Shoutout to Chris, Ibra and Ivan) SUCH LEGENDS!! You can see how much ...
09 Apr 2026
5* Uganda Trip 2026
Just home from an amazing trip with Craic on Travels to Uganda. Everything was organised really well, and we got to do so much in the 11 days that we were there. Our local guides Chris, Ibrahim and Ivan were really helpful, knowledgeable and fun - Always happy to answer our many many questions! The safari experience itself was incredible - We got to see gorillas, rhinos, chimpanzees, giraffes, zebras, pumbas and many more. We even got close to a lion thanks to Chris assessing where he would end up! What really made the trip was all of the ...
09 Apr 2026
Uganda March/April 2026
My trip to Uganda was incredible. It was jam-packed with so many unique experiences from start to finish and I would highly recommend to anyone. Our tour lead (Robyn) and local guides (Chris, Ibrahim and Ivan) were outstanding. We had an amazing group and cannot wait to meet up again in the future.
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