• Many of the activities (both included and optional) on this trip take place in the great outdoors. This means you'll need to be prepared to deal with insects and occasionally rustic conditions. It's all part of immersing yourself in this natural paradise!
• There are many opportunities to get active on this adventure. Some of the optional activities require a moderate level of fitness and sturdy walking shoes. If you'd prefer to take it easy, however, there are plenty of other things you can do instead.

This tour includes a group transfer from Lima airport to the hotel, in private service, on Day 1.

A welcome meeting will commence at the hotel (Santa Cruz Hotel or similar) at 2pm.

Peru has visa-free travel agreements with many countries. Foreign nationals including those from the United Kingdom, United States, New Zealand and Canada do not require a visa to enter Peru for tourism purposes. Eligible foreign nationals will be issued a free visitor permit in the form of a passport stamp upon arrival.

The duration of a Peru visitor permit ranges between 30 to 183 days, and is normally determined by border officers on arrival. If you're issued a permit for 30 or 90 days and want to extend your trip, you can request an extension before your initial permit expires. You should also note that you cannot extend a 183-day permit, so if you intend to stay longer, you'll need to apply for the relevant visa at your nearest Peruvian embassy or consulate before you depart.

If you overstay your visitor permit in Peru, you may be fined when leaving the country. The fine is around US $1.50 per day and must be paid in cash. It's essential to ensure border officials stamp your passport on arrival, or you might have to go through a potentially long and expensive process to leave the country – either by requesting an entry stamp at the National Superintendent of Immigration in Lima, or applying for an exit order.

Houston Vandergriff is a travel photographer/TikTok star who has a simple vision with his photography: To make the world a better place.

Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, he has traveled far and wide and hopes his photographs will inspire others to live life to the fullest and to live life with compassion.

Born with Down Syndrome, Houston has shared his gift of photography as a means of also sharing the gift of hope, and wants to help those who do not have the opportunity to visit the places he photographs to be able to experience them.

For more information about Houston and Downs and Towns, visit: https://www.downsandtowns.com/

Did you know when you book with us you get up to 10% CASHBACK to use on your next tour? We won’t be beaten on price! Let us know if you find this tour cheaper and we will beat it!

You score up to 10% of your purchase value emailed to you as a one-time code to use on your next adventure!

Internet can be accessed at hotels, restaurants and cafes in large cities, but it can be more limited in rural and remote areas.

The weather in Peru differs from region to region with coastal areas experiencing a subtropical desert climate, a tropical climate in the Amazon rainforest and a temperate climate in the Andes (places like Cusco and Arequipa). While varying climates can mean the best time to visit Peru changes depending on the region you're visiting; generally, May to October sees consistently dry and sunny days perfect for enjoying the vibrant cities and beautiful landscapes of this South American country. 

Dressing in layers is key, as you’ll need to layer up and down as the weather changes throughout the day. Wear clothes made of natural, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton (although cotton doesn't dry well in high humidity) or merino wool; merino is particularly good for hiking as it wicks away moisture and regulates body temperature. Sportswear is also a good shout for hot weather as it’s lightweight and quick-drying.

Peru has a mix of both squat toilets and western-style flushable toilets. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they're not always provided. Toilet paper isn't supposed to be flushed, and most toilets have a bin next to them to dispose of the used toilet paper. Some public toilets charge a small usage fee. Expect to use squat toilets if travelling on the Inca Trail. 

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Peru. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader or the hotel where you’re staying where filtered water can be found. It's advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

No vaccines are required in order to enter Peru but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Recommended travel vaccines for Peru:

1. Hepatitis A (transmitted through contaminated water)

2. Typhoid (transmitted through contaminated water)

3. Yellow Fever (transmitted by mosquitos): This vaccination is recommended if you’re visiting Puno or the Amazon. Some countries require a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate for entry after visiting Peru. Do your research before leaving home to see if you require this vaccine.

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 m (6561 ft) regardless of age, gender or fitness level. While our leaders have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you make yourself aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.