Imagine this: You’re standing in the heart of the world’s largest natural mirror – the vast, surreal Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia – as the sun plunges below the horizon, igniting the sky in a blaze of crimson and gold.

The heavens dissolve into an endless, shimmering sea at your feet, blurring the line between earth and infinity. Can you feel the crisp, salty air tingling on your skin? That’s just the beginning of your epic 14-day adventure with Action Peru Treks!

Now, fast-forward to Peru: You’re tracing the ancient Inca Trail, your boots crunching on weathered stone steps as you ascend to the Sun Gate.

Heart pounding, you catch your first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu, its mist-shrouded ruins glowing in the dawn’s golden embrace. Goosebumps?

Absolutely. This isn’t just a trip – it’s your personal odyssey through the Andes’ most spellbinding wonders, where raw nature collides with timeless history in ways that will leave you forever changed.

Picture gliding across the sapphire depths of Lake Titicaca, the planet’s highest navigable lake, as you step onto the floating reed islands of the Uros people.

Hear their stories, feel the gentle sway beneath your feet, and witness traditions that have danced with the waves for centuries. Crave more thrills?

Conquer the psychedelic stripes of Rainbow Mountain on an invigorating hike, where every breath rewards you with explosive colors that defy imagination.

Then, lose yourself in the vibrant chaos of Cusco’s cobblestone streets, savoring the aroma of fresh Andean herbs in bustling markets before culminating at the enigmatic terraces of Machu Picchu – a UNESCO marvel where the first rays of sun whisper secrets of lost empires.

Tailored for bold explorers like you, this journey balances pulse-racing day hikes with indulgent evenings in boutique hotels and eco-lodges.

Push your limits on rugged trails by day, then recharge with gourmet feasts fusing local flavors – think quinoa-infused delicacies and pisco sours under a star-studded sky.

Sleep in a one-of-a-kind salt-brick hotel in Uyuni, where the Milky Way feels close enough to touch. Master weaving arts from Sacred Valley artisans, their colorful threads weaving your story into theirs. Every step, every vista, every cultural immersion pulses with raw discovery and unfiltered joy.

Ready to etch your legend into the soul of the Andes? Join Action Peru Treks and transform “what if” into “I did.”

Your adventure awaits—seize it now!

Day 1: Welcome to La Paz – The City in the Sky

Touch down in La Paz, where your Andean adventure begins at 11,975 feet above sea level. Your guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in the vibrant city center.

Take time to acclimate to the altitude while watching the rhythm of life unfold in South America’s highest capital. If you’re feeling energetic, explore the charming neighborhood around your hotel, where cafes sit alongside traditional markets and colonial architecture.

Note: You will need a visa to enter Bolivia. You will also need to pass through customs. You can get your visa in advance or on arrival, but you need a valid passport with at least six months before it expires, a certificate of yellow fever vaccination, a round-trip ticket, and proof of lodging. See the FAQs below for more detailed information.

• Meals: None
• Accommodations: Hotel in La Paz
• Maximum altitude: 4,150 m /13,620 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3.650 m /11.975 ft

Day 2: Discovering La Paz – From Historic Streets to Moon Valley

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide for a private tour of Bolivia’s capital. Wind through the city’s historic neighborhoods, where colonial churches and mansions create a backdrop for La Paz’s fascinating blend of Spanish and indigenous cultures.

Next, venture to the otherworldly Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), where erosion has sculpted striking formations in the clay mountains. Spires and canyons create an almost lunar landscape. Cap off your adventure with a ride on La Paz’s ultramodern téléferico (cable car system), gliding high above the city streets.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel in La Paz
• La Paz Altitude: 3,650 m /11.975 ft
• Approximate tour time: 5-7 hours

Day 3: Journey to the Infinite White – La Paz to Uyuni Salt Flats

Your morning begins with a quick flight from La Paz to Uyuni, the gateway to the world’s largest salt flat. Your adventure starts with an exploration of Pulacayo, a silver mining ghost town that has earned UNESCO World Industrial Heritage status.

Then, venture into the vast white expanse of the legendary Salar de Uyuni to visit Isla del Pescado (Fish Island), a surreal outcrop rising from the salt plain. Here, giant cacti stretch toward the sky, some reaching heights of over 30 feet.

As the day winds down, witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows, sunset over the Uyuni salt flats, when the fading light transforms the white salt into a canvas of brilliant colors.

• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodations: Hotel in Uyuni (Palacio de Sal hotel or similar)
• Maximum altitude: 4,150 m /13,620 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,660 m/12,00 ft
• Fly time from La Paz to Uyuni: 1 hour
• Approximate tour time: 9-10 hours

Day 4: Private Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

After breakfast at your hotel, venture deeper into the otherworldly landscape of Uyuni salt flats. Your guide will lead you to the tiny community of Coquesa, nestled at the base of the Tunupa volcano. Step back in time as you trek to ancient caves holding centuries-old Aymara mummies preserved by the desert air.

Take a break for a gourmet lunch amid the salt flats’ vast white expanse, where sky and earth seem to merge at the horizon. Finally, return to your salt hotel for another spectacular Uyuni sunset.

Note: Bring your camera – the salt flats offer incredible photo opportunities!

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel in Uyuni (Palacio de Sal hotel or similar)
• Maximum altitude: 3,660 m/12,00 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,660 m/12,00 ft
• Approximate tour time: 8-10 hours

Day 5: From Salt Flats to Sacred Waters – Journey to Isla del Sol

Begin your day with a morning flight from Uyuni Salt Flats back to La Paz. A scenic drive brings you to the charming lakeside town of Copacabana, where you’ll pause for lunch along the shores of South America’s largest lake.

Board a boat to Isla del Sol, the sacred birthplace of Inca civilization. According to legend, it was here that Manco Kápac and Mama Ocllo, the first Inca rulers, emerged from Lake Titicaca to establish their empire. Follow in their footsteps as you ascend the ancient Escalinatas de Yumani, a traditional Inca stairway that winds up the island’s terraced slopes.

Along your climb, stop to taste the waters of a mountain spring known as the Fountain of Eternal Youth. Your effort is rewarded at the summit with panoramic views that include Lake Titicaca and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real.

Note: Accommodation on Isla del Sol is in simple, locally-run hostels. While basic, they offer an authentic island experience as luxury hotels are not available on the island.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel in Isla del Sol
• Maximum altitude: 3,812 m/12,507 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,660 m/12,00 ft

Day 6: Island Sunrise to Peruvian Shores – Isla del Sol to Puno

Rise early to witness a spectacular sunrise over Lake Titicaca. After breakfast, spend the morning exploring the ancient trails of Isla del Sol.

Return by boat to Copacabana, where you’ll have time to visit the brilliant white Moorish-style Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, home to the revered “Dark Virgin,” Bolivia’s patron saint. Take in the local culture at Copacabana’s vibrant market, where artisans display colorful textiles and traditional crafts.

Then, begin your journey into Peru, traveling along the shores of Lake Titicaca to Puno. This three-hour drive includes a stop at the Bolivia-Peru border. In the evening, arrive at your comfortable Puno hotel, ready to begin the Peruvian chapter of your adventure.

Note: Border crossing procedures between Bolivia and Peru are straightforward but can take some time. Have your passport ready.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel in Puno (Tierra Viva hotel or similar)
• Maximum altitude: 3,830 m/12,560 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,812 m/12,507 ft

Day 7: Life on the Lake – Uros and Taquile Island Adventure

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast as today’s lake adventure will span 9 hours exploring two of Lake Titicaca’s most fascinating islands. Your first stop is the floating Uros Islands, an archipelago of 32 islands ingeniously constructed from layers of totora reeds. Here, you’ll learn about local customs and explore the remarkable reed homes. For an additional 20 soles, you can glide across the lake in a traditional reed boat.

Next, voyage about 30 miles across Lake Titicaca to reach Taquile Island. As you cruise across waters situated at 12,500 feet elevation, soak in magnificent views of the lake and surrounding peninsulas. On Taquile, climb the ancient stone steps to reach the island’s heart. Your effort is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Titicaca. Enjoy a local lunch before beginning your return journey.

Arrive back in Puno around 3:30 PM, with time to relax at your hotel for the evening.

Note: Visiting Taquile requires climbing 500 steps to reach the main part of the island. With elevations ranging from 12,000 ft at the lakeshore to over 13,000 ft at the highest point, please pace yourself and be mindful of the altitude.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel in Puno (Tierra Viva hotel or similar)
• Maximum altitude: 3,950 m/12,959 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,830 m/12,560 ft
• Distance to walk: 13 km/8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours

Day 8: Route of the Sun – Journey from Puno to Cusco

Journey along the Route of the Sun, following ancient pathways from the Altiplano to the heart of the Inca Empire. Departing Puno at 7:00 AM, bid farewell to Lake Titicaca’s shimmering waters as you begin your scenic 10-hour journey to Cusco.

Your first stop comes after two hours in the historic town of Pucara, the birthplace of the famous ceramic bulls that crown Andean rooftops. These colorful guardians hold deep significance in local culture.

Continue through the dramatic highlands to La Raya, the natural border between the Puno and Cusco regions. Here, you’ll pause for photos of the breathtaking mountain panorama before enjoying a buffet lunch.

In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Temple of Viracocha at Raqchi, the largest temple built by the Inca Empire. Your final stop before Cusco is the stunning colonial church of Andahuaylillas, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” You can explore intricate murals and priceless colonial artworks that blend European and Andean artistic traditions.

Arrive in Cusco around 5:00 PM, where our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in the ancient Inca capital.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch 
• Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco (Tierra Viva hotel or similar)
• Maximum altitude: 3,830 m/12,560 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,399 m/11,152 ft
• Distance to walk: 13 km/8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours

Day 9: Cusco City Tour

Morning unfolds at your own pace in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Take time to wander through the cobblestone streets to the San Pedro Market, where locals trade everything from fresh produce to traditional textiles, or climb the picturesque streets of San Blas, where artisans work in studios tucked within colonial buildings.

The afternoon tour leads you through Cusco’s fascinating history. Begin in the UNESCO-recognized historic center at the Cusco Cathedral. Continue to Qoricancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire.

The tour continues into the hills above Cusco to the Sacsayhuaman fortress, where ancient Inca masons created walls so precisely fitted that not even a knife blade could slip between them. If time allows, visitors can explore nearby sacred sites like Qenko, where ancient rituals once took place among carved stone channels and mysterious caves.

Return to your hotel as evening paints the city in golden light. The night is yours to sample Cusco’s culinary scene or stroll the illuminated Plaza de Armas.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco (Tierra Viva hotel or similar)
• Maximum altitude: 3,700 m/12,139 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
• Distance to walk: 13 km/8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours

Day 10: Rainbow Mountain Hike

Get ready to explore one of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders – Vinicunca, known as Rainbow Mountain. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll take a scenic drive through the Vilcanota mountain range, watching the landscape transform from valley farmland to high alpine wilderness. Your trek begins at a breathtaking 4,800 meters (16,000 ft), where the thin air reminds you that you’re standing higher than most peaks in North America.

The challenging three-hour ascent takes you through a landscape that changes with every step. Finally, crest the summit to behold nature’s masterpiece: mountainsides striped with brilliant mineral colors, from deep rust reds to bright yellows and soft lavenders. On clear days, the mighty Ausangate glacier provides a snow-capped backdrop to this extraordinary scene.

You will want your camera handy for this hike to capture photos of the unique landscape. The descent offers new perspectives on the colorful mountains and surrounding valleys before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.

Note: This high-altitude trek requires good physical condition. The elevation makes this challenging even for experienced hikers. Move at your own pace and stay hydrated.

• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
• Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco (Tierra Viva hotel or similar)
• Distance Covered: 10 km/6.2 miles
• Approximate Walking Time: 5-7 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Maximum Altitude: 5,200m/17,060 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 4,300m/14,000ft

Day 11: Sacred Valley – Chinchero – Maras – Moray and Ollantaytambo

Leave the colonial cobblestones of Cusco behind to explore the Sacred Valley. Begin in Chinchero, a traditional village perched high in the valley. Here, master weavers work in the shadow of massive Inca walls. Then, explore the impressive archaeological site built under Tupac Inca Yupanqui, which has agricultural terraces and ceremonial platforms.

Journey onward to Moray, where concentric circular terraces descend into the earth like a giant’s amphitheater. These sophisticated agricultural laboratories may have allowed the Inca to simulate different growing conditions, a testament to their agricultural genius.

Next, witness the still-functioning salt pans of Maras, where crystalline pools cascade down the mountainside. These salt mines, fed by mineral-rich spring water through an ancient system of channels, have been harvested since pre-Inca times and continue to produce the region’s famous pink salt.

Conclude your journey at the fortress of Ollantaytambo. Ancient streets follow their original Inca layout, and water flows through centuries-old stone channels. Cap the excursion with lunch in Urubamba, featuring Peruvian and international flavors.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel in Ollantaytambo (Sol Ollantay hotel or similar)
• Minimum Altitude: 3,400 m/11,154 ft
• Maximum Altitude: 3,700 m/12,139 ft
• Approximate Tour Duration: 6-8 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Easy

Day 12: Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Start your day with a 3-hour ascent along original Inca stone steps. This challenging but rewarding hike takes you through diverse landscapes with unique flora and fauna.

Around midday, you’ll reach the awe-inspiring ruins of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), a well-preserved Inca site clinging to a steep hillside, and visit a nearby temple boasting seven rainbow-colored windows showcasing the Incas’ impressive engineering skills.

We’ll continue hiking toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Prepare to be awestruck by your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu!

Finally, we’ll descend to the Lost City and spend the night in vibrant Aguas Calientes, where you’ll celebrate your accomplishment and gear up for another day of exploration.

Begin your journey to Machu Picchu in true Inca style—on foot along their ancient royal highway. Starting on the original stone path, you will embark on a three-hour ascent through cloud forest and mountain terrain.

Your efforts will be rewarded by midday when you discover Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), one of the most beautiful Inca sites along the trail. Here, you can visit ancient stone buildings, agricultural terraces that cling dramatically to the mountainside, and a temple with seven rainbow-colored windows.

Resume your climb toward Inti Punku, the legendary Sun Gate. Here, catch your breath with Machu Picchu visible in the distance. Finally, descend to Aguas Calientes, the lively town at the foot of Machu Picchu, where a comfortable hotel and well-earned rest await.

• Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch and Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Hatun Inti Classic hotel or similar)
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
• Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
• Distance to walk: 13 km/8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 6-8 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 13: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Tour – Cusco

Your 25-minute bus ride winds up the switchback road to Machu Picchu, arriving early. This timing offers moments of tranquility before the daily crowds arrive at one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.

Your guide will take you on a two-hour journey through Machu Picchu’s most significant areas. You will learn how the Inca created this architectural masterpiece, hear tales of daily life in the royal city, and discover the fascinating astronomical alignments built into its design.

The remainder of the morning is yours to experience Machu Picchu as you wish. Those who got a permit in advance can challenge themselves to climb Huayna Picchu for a condor’s-eye view of the ruins. Others prefer to find a quiet spot to sketch or soak in this sacred place.

Descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding your train back toward Cusco. Whether you depart from Ollantaytambo or Poroy station, private transport will complete your journey back to your Cusco hotel, where you can reflect on an unforgettable day.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco (Tierra Viva hotel or similar)
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
• Maximum Altitude: 2,430 m/7,972 ft
• Level of Difficulty: Easy

Day 14: Farewell to the Andes

Today, your journey through Bolivia and Peru draws to a close. After a final breakfast at your Cusco hotel, your guide will escort you to the airport.

As your plane lifts off from Cusco’s mountain-ringed valley, gaze down at the landscape that has shared its secrets with you over the past two weeks. From the otherworldly expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats to the mist-shrouded terraces of Machu Picchu, you’ve experienced some of South America’s most extraordinary places and connected with the living cultures that call these ancient lands home.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Meals: Breakfast

SERVICES INCLUDED

• Guides: Professional English-speaking guides for all tours and hikes; assistant for larger groups.
• Entrance Fees: All tickets to sites like Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca islands, Route of the Sun stops, Cusco landmarks, Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Transportation: Airport transfers; domestic flights (La Paz-Uyuni round-trip); private drives, boat rides, cable car, bus to Machu Picchu, and train back to Cusco.
• Accommodations: 13 nights in hotels (double occupancy): 2 in La Paz, 2 in Uyuni, 1 on Isla del Sol, 2 in Puno, 4 in Cusco, 1 in Ollantaytambo, 1 in Aguas Calientes.
• Meals: 13 breakfasts (Days 2-14), 8 lunches (Days 3-8, 10, 12), 5 dinners (Days 4-7, 12).
• Other: Airport greeting and briefing; emergency kit (first aid, oxygen, radios); all itinerary activities, hikes, and cultural experiences.

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

• International flights to/from La Paz/Cusco; airport taxes.
• Bolivia visa and requirements (passport, yellow fever certificate, round-trip ticket, lodging proof); Peru entry docs; border fees.
• Travel insurance (recommended for altitude and cancellations).
• Tips for guides, drivers, and staff.
• Unspecified meals (e.g., lunches on Days 1-2, 9, 11, 13-14; most dinners; beverages).
• Optionals: Huayna Picchu permit (USD 75).
• Hiking poles for the Inca Trail
• Personal expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, snacks, drinks, calls.
• Costs from emergencies, weather delays, or changes.

Packing List for Your 14-Day Uyuni Salt Flats and Machu Picchu AdventurePreparing for this epic journey through Bolivia’s surreal salt flats, Peru’s high-altitude hikes, and iconic sites like Lake Titicaca and Rainbow Mountain means packing smart for variable weather, rugged terrain, and cultural immersion. Expect everything from chilly Andean nights (down to freezing) to sunny days at elevation (with intense UV rays), plus potential rain or dust. Focus on layers, lightweight essentials, and multi-purpose items to keep your pack manageable – aim for a 40-60L backpack. We’ve noted rentals where available to lighten your load. Here’s a comprehensive, categorized guide to ensure you’re ready for adventure without overpacking:

Documents and Essentials

• Original Passport: Bring it for border crossings and entry to sites like Machu Picchu. If you’ve renewed it since booking, pack both the old and new to avoid any visa or ticket mismatches.
• Travel Insurance Proof: Digital or printed copy covering high-altitude activities, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.
• Cash and Cards: Local currencies (Bolivianos and Peruvian Soles) for remote areas, plus a backup card. ATMs can be sparse in Uyuni.

Clothing (Layer Up for Temperature Swings)

Pack breathable, quick-dry fabrics to handle sweat during hikes and cold evenings. Aim for 4-5 days’ worth, as laundry options may be limited.

• Trekking Boots or Sturdy Hiking Shoes: Waterproof and broken-in to prevent blisters on uneven trails like the Inca steps or salt flat walks.
• Warm Fleece Jacket or Down Layer: Essential for frigid nights in Uyuni (temperatures can drop below 0°C/32°F).
• T-Shirts and Base Layers: A few moisture-wicking ones (3-5) for daily wear.
• Socks and Underwear: Wool or synthetic socks (8 – 10 pairs) for comfort; warm thermal underwear for high elevations.
• Sun Hat and Gloves: Wide-brim hat for UV protection; lightweight gloves for early mornings or windy salt flats.
• Light Long Pants or Trekking Pants: Convertible ones are ideal for varying conditions.
• Rain Jacket or Poncho: Waterproof and packable to shield against sudden showers in the Sacred Valley.

Gear and Equipment

• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for stability on steep descents like Rainbow Mountain; rentable from us.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: With extra batteries—crucial for early starts or power outages in remote lodges.
• Sunglasses: Polarized with UV protection to combat glare from salt flats and high-altitude sun.
• Camera with Spare Batteries: Capture those mirror-like reflections in Uyuni; note that cold and altitude drain batteries faster, so bring extras or a portable charger.
• Binoculars: Great for spotting wildlife on Lake Titicaca or distant views from Machu Picchu.

Personal Care and Health

• Toiletries: Toilet paper, wet wipes, and a quick-dry personal towel – facilities can be basic in remote areas.
• Sunscreen (SPF 35+): Reapply often due to thin air amplifying UV rays; lip balm with SPF too.
• Insect Repellent: DEET-based for buggy spots near lakes or valleys.
• Basic First Aid Kit: Include altitude sickness meds (consult a doctor), pain relievers, band-aids, and any personal prescriptions.
• Water Bottle or Hydration System: Reusable with purification tablets or filter for safe drinking on the go.

Extras for Comfort and Enjoyment

• Book or E-Reader: Perfect for downtime at camps or during transfers—rechargeable if digital.
• Snacks: Energy bars or nuts for hikes; we provide meals, but personal favorites help with altitude appetite loss.
• Daypack: Small one for daily excursions, leaving your main bag at lodges.

PRICES & ADD-ONS

Group: USD $3300 per person
Private: USD $3600 per person

Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?

• Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
• If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
• Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Action Peru Treks is able to join that person with additional groups.

Rentals

• Hiking poles for the Short Inca Trail – USD $10 (for a pair)

Hotel Upgrades for Machu Picchu

• Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 per person per night (double occupancy)
• Inkaterra El Pueblo Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $250 per person per night (double occupancy)
• El Mapi hotel by Inkaterra (4-star hotel) – USD $115 per person per night (double occupancy)
• Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $60 per person per night (double occupancy)

Train Upgrades

• Return Vistadome train -USD $80 for trip from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy
• Return Hiram Bingham train -USD $520 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy
• Private lodging or Private hotel room in Aguas Calientes – USD $45 per person (this cost applies to our standard hotel included)
• Buffet lunch at the Tinkuy restaurant in the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge in Machu Picchu on day 2 – USD $55 per person

Frequently Asked Questions – Peru & Bolivia Adventure

Do I need a visa to enter Bolivia?

Always confirm with the nearest Bolivian consulate or embassy for your specific situation, as rules can change, and non-tourist travel (work, study) always requires a visa. 

What do I need to declare at customs when I arrive in Bolivia?

You will need to pass through customs on arrival in Bolivia. You’ll need a valid passport and must declare cash over $10,000.

• You can’t bring any items that damage the environment, human health, or animal or plant life.
• You need a sanitary or phytosanitary certificate to import meat and plant products.
• Bolivia has tariff rates for imports ranging from 0–20%.

What do I need for the border crossing between Peru & Bolivia

Crossing between Peru and Bolivia is straightforward but requires some patience. You’ll need a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining, and your guide will help with the immigration cards at the border.

The process typically takes 1-2 hours. You’ll exit Bolivia first, cross the border, then enter Peru. While customs and luggage checks are possible, they’re usually brief.

How big is the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia?

The Salar de Uyuni, commonly known as the Uyuni Salt Flats, is the world’s largest salt flat and covers an area of approximately 10,582 square kilometers (4,086 square miles).

Where are the Uyuni Salt Flats located?

The Salar de Uyuni is located in southwestern Bolivia, in the Daniel Campos Province of the Potosí Department.

It lies on the Altiplano plateau near the crest of the Andes Mountains, at an elevation of approximately 3,656 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, and is situated close to the borders with Chile and Argentina. The nearest major town is Uyuni, which serves as the primary gateway for visitors

How do I plan for the altitude?

Altitude is a consideration throughout your journey. You’ll be traveling at significant elevations, from La Paz at 11,942 feet to Rainbow Mountain at a breathtaking 17,060 feet. Give your body time to adjust by taking it easy for the first 2-3 days, staying hydrated, and eating light meals. Many travelers find coca tea helpful, and it’s widely available. Consider discussing altitude medication with your doctor before departure, especially if you’re concerned.

Can I use US dollars on my trip?

While US dollars are welcomed at hotels, you’ll want local currency for daily expenses. You’ll use Bolivianos in Bolivia and Soles in Peru.

ATMs are readily available in major cities like La Paz, Cusco, and Puno but can be scarce in smaller towns.

What about medication?

Bring any prescription medications you need, plus basic pain relievers and stomach medication.

Is water provided on the trek?

Your guide will ensure you have access to safe drinking water throughout the journey. During treks, stick to bottled water or water provided by your guide.

How do I get a Huayna Picchu permit?

We can help you obtain your Huayna Picchu permit as an optional extra when you book your trek. The iconic peak in classic Machu Picchu photos allows only 400 visitors per day.

We recommend deciding about this additional hike when booking your tour. Huayna Picchu is steeper and more challenging, with some sections requiring both hands and feet.

Can I charge my phone? Is there internet access?

Electricity varies between 220V and 110V throughout Peru and Bolivia. Most hotels provide adapters, but it’s wise to bring your own.

Internet access is reliable in major cities but spotty in remote areas like Isla del Sol or along trekking routes.

Why should I choose Action Peru Treks for my Uyuni Salt Flats and Machu Picchu adventure?

Action Peru Treks is a 100% locally owned, indigenous tour operator based in Peru.

We specialize in high-quality, ethical travel experiences and rank as a top provider on TripAdvisor for tours in Peru and Bolivia.