Peru / Machu Picchu best operator/prices?

gandalftheking

Hi all,

I know this is subjective, but I also know there will be people who have been to Peru, and I hope I can pick your brains a bit

I'm planning to go to Peru in around 12 months time. My partner is afraid of flying, so this will be a lone trip. Therefore I do not want to be away for too long. I've homed in on The Adventure Company who do an 11 day Peru Highlights tour (am not concerned re doing the Inca Trail) including Machu Picchu.

Does anyone else have any better ideas? As in operator and similar duration holidays? I know it seems a shame not to stay away for longer, but 10 or 11 days is my max. I'm also wondering whether to go "flights inclusive" or source my own flights (would rather not, but it seems there could be a packet to be saved!)? Truth be told, I'd rather go inclusive if I can find something competitive.

Also, can anyone advise re how much extra cash per day is advisable, as it seems breakfasts only are part of the norm for this type of trip, plus extensive tipping etc.

Many thanks in advance for your help

Steve

richardw

BTW Lan Peru internal flights are expensive, but if you fly to Lima on a one world airline, Lan, BA, AA, IBeria, you get a discount.

gandalftheking

I'm still looking at options, in case anyone does know of an excellent operator?.. thanks

richardw

Which operators have you looked at?

delwynshd

Also what sort of price are you thinking along the lines of?

Del

gandalftheking

hi to both previous replies

i have currently been looking at the adventure company, who do a 11 day, all flights incl price of 2000 to 2400ish depending when one travels. i have looked at some others who's names escape me, but due to the duration and price, this is where im at as of now

re price - budget would be around the range of the above, not just looking for cheapest, but also most reliable/expert at that location.

thanks

richardw

It may be a bit too short and this may be why other operators aren't offering these trips.

It's important to take into account the extra time needed because

travelling from Cornwall to an airport with 6am klm flights to AMS or AF flights to CDG

there are no direct flights from the UK to Lima

Jet lag

Altitude adjustment/sickness

Internal travelling from Lima to Cuzco and other places.

It is a fantastic place and well worth your partner losing their fear of flying for.

lovebargainshatewaste

I've used https://www.llamatravel.com in the past. Had no problems, in fact they were very good. You can design your own intinerary as well, which is great.

I didn't much enjoy Lima, so I wouldn't recommend staying there long. Cuzco is wonderful and an essential stop. Please be aware that if you're not doing the Inca trail, you won't get to Machu Picchu until about lunch time. I did the 4 day trail, and got to see MP from the sun gate at sunrise. Truly beautiful!!! Sacred valley is stunning. I arranged a personal tour with a guide whilst I was there (via tour rep), which cost us$50. Just me and the guide/driver for the day. Lake Titicaca is wonderful as well.

Have a good trip. Try to convince your man to overcome his fear of flying. It's a magical place! (pm me for details on how to get over fear of flying - I've helped lots of people so far)

gandalftheking

Thanks re the flying fear bit; its HER fear btw; no biggie. i will pm you anyway, and pass the info onto her. thanks

poe.tuesday

have you looked at vjv.com as they have some fab trips to peru

ItchyFeet

I went to Peru with Exodus a few years ago. I was travelling on my own so this was a good way to meet others. The trip i did combined Amazon rainforest, Inca Trail and Lake Titicaca. Had a fab time - especially the rainforest part. You would have to check their website for current prices.