This incredible 3-week journey combines the highlights of Bolivia with the must-see sights in the neighbouring Andean nations of Chile and Peru.
Beginning in Peru’s capital on the Pacific Ocean, Lima, this journey through the Andes will treat you to some of South America’s most beautiful cities, most striking landscapes and most exclusive luxury experiences. After exploring Lima with expert local guides, you will move south, visiting the White City of Arequipa and the jagged ravines of the Colca Canyon. You will spend time on the shores of Lake Titicaca before ticking off Peru’s most impressive ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, with an enviable day trip to Machu Picchu on the Belmond Hiram Bingham train. In Bolivia, immerse yourself in the hybrid cultural landscape of La Paz before journeying into the wilds of the Altiplano and the white expanse of the Salar de Uyuni. Cross from southern Bolivia into Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest in the world, and participate in a spot of stargazing under these transparent skies. Your trip will end in Santiago, a booming business city set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Andean cordillera where you can spend a relaxing two nights before flying home.
Trip Highlights
Explore the Colca Canyon and spot Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.
Visit Machu Picchu on an exclusive tour with luxury train travel.
Discover Lake Titicaca, believed to be the birthplace of the first Inca.
Experience the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats and the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna Reserve.
Spend time in the Atacama Desert, exploring its landscapes and enjoying world-class stargazing.
When to go
Peru, Bolivia, and Chile can be visited year-round, but the experience varies by season. From December to March, the rainy season brings the mirror effect on the Uyuni Salt Flats and fewer crowds at Machu Picchu, though rain and flooding can affect access. From April to November, the dry season offers the iconic cracked salt flats, clearer skies for stargazing, and the best conditions for Machu Picchu, though with more visitors.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- Best
- Good
- Average
The Uyuni Salt Flats were otherworldly... driving across the endless white landscape felt completely surreal. We loved how quiet and vast everything was, and the nights under the clear stars were incredible. The journey through the Altiplano was just as memorable, with stunning views of colourful lagoons and towering volcanoes at every stop. It felt remote but never difficult, and having a guide made everything easy and relaxed.
– Humboldt Client
Day by Day Itinerary
Arrive into Lima and transfer to your luxury hotel in the bohemian Barranco district for the next two nights.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
This morning you will fly south to Arequipa and check in to your luxury hotel for the night. After settling in, explore the colonial ‘White City’ with your guide and admire the views of the town’s surrounding volcanic peaks.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Leave Arequipa behind and drive toward the Colca Canyon with your guide where you will spend the next two nights of your trip.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Today you can explore the Colca region with your guide, enjoying sweeping vistas of this dramatic ravine and visiting the Cruz del Condor to try and catch a glimpse of the majestic Andean condors in this region. You may also have the opportunity to explore local ruins or thermal baths before returning to your hotel in the evening.
Early in the morning you will leave Colca and embark on a full day overland tour to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. You will arrive in the late afternoon and check in to your hotel for the next two nights.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Today you can enjoy some of the activities on offer from Titilaka Hotel with expert guides. Local Aymara and Quechua peoples believe Lake Titicaca to be the birthplace of the first Inca – immerse yourself in the folklore of these traditional cultures with illuminating tours of the lake’s islands and mysterious ruins.
This morning you will board the luxury PeruRail Titicaca train bound for Cusco. Enjoy delicious meals included on-board and a folk music show during your journey. Upon arrival in Cusco, you will check into your hotel for the next three nights.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Enjoy an informative tour of Cusco with your local guide. Undoubtedly the most beautiful city in Peru, Cusco, the old Inca capital, is a pastiche of Hispanic and indigenous influences boasting stunning colonial edifices built upon the ruins of grand Inca palaces and a wealth of fascinating museums and art galleries.
Board the luxurious 1920s-style Belmond Hiram Bingham train this morning for an unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu. You will be served a delicious meal on board before enjoying an exclusive tour of the ruins, complete with a decadent afternoon tea at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. This evening, take the train to the Sacred Valley, enjoying a gourmet dinner en-route.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Return to the airport in Cusco and board a flight to La Paz, Bolivia’s Andean capital. Upon arrival in this mountaintop city, your guide will take you on a ride on the city’s unique cable-car public transport system – the ‘Teleférico’. You will spend the next three nights in the city.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Today you will explore La Paz with your guide. Enjoy visiting the colonial Church of San Francisco and haggling for unique handcrafts on Sagarnaga Street. Learn more about ancient Bolivian culture in the Witches’ Market, where indigenous healers sell traditional remedies. Visit Plaza Murillo for the Government Palace and the Cathedral before ending the day in amongst the eerie spires of the Valley of the Moon.
Early this morning you will board a flight south to Uyuni. Upon arrival you will be met by a representative of your accommodation and begin your two-night exploration of the famous Salt Flats and their surroundings.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Your private guide will transfer you to the wild landscapes of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna Reserve. This stunning protected park encompasses mountains, thermal springs, caves, rocky valleys, volcanoes and colourful mountain lagoons. You will spend the night at a remote eco-lodge.
Today you will transfer over the border into Chile to spend two nights in the Atacama Desert, famous for its copper-coloured landscapes and clear skies for stargazing.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Today you will fly south to Santiago, the last capital city on your trip, where you will spend two nights.
- SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Where to stay
Interested in Exclusive Use properties?
Why Travel with Us
A truly personalised service
We offer a truly personalised service providing a more authentic, caring experience. As a family-run business, we like to treat our guests like an extended part of our family rather than just clients.
Tried and tested expert knowledge
Our team have visited and experienced every region we sell. We design your holiday using this first-hand knowledge, ensuring you have the benefit of our specialist’s depth of experience.
Luxury travel with a conscience
We believe that luxury travel can be a force for good, creating transformative experiences that give back; enriching lives, uplifting local economies, and preserving the planet’s most precious places.
Don’t just take our word for it
At Humboldt we go the extra mile and pay attention to the smaller details so that your trip is individually crafted with care.
Independent Service Rating based on 296 verified reviews.
Chat to us to start planning your adventure
Get in touch with us and one of our travel experts will answer any questions you may have and help create your dream trip.