LONG TRIP – 14+ DAYS
Grand Andes Journey – Crossing the Mountains
Grand Andes Trip – 14+ DAYS
This itinerary takes you to discover the great southern Peruvian region: Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca and the endless landscapes of the Altiplano.
We take our time: well-planned nights at altitude, smooth journeys, stages that alternate between villages, iconic sites and moments of calm facing the lake.
On-site, we work with trusted local partners for guides, transportation, and accommodations. From Switzerland, Qhanati takes care of everything: advice, trip design, coordination… and international flights if you wish.
The result: a comfortable journey, with a good pace to breathe, marvel and truly connect with the places and people.
Who is this trip for?
• You want to see Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca without rushing, with time to enjoy each stage.
• You love vast mountain landscapes, the evening lights on the lake, and encounters with Andean communities.
• You are ready to travel at altitude, but you appreciate a good level of comfort and a very well-organized trip.
Highlights of the trip
• First few days in Cusco to gently acclimatize: colonial alleyways, local markets, small cafes.
• Day in the Sacred Valley: Andean villages, iconic Inca sites and mountain views.
• Panoramic train to the Altiplano or scenic route with photo stops depending on the version we will build together.
Your great Andean journey, step by step
1. Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Day 1–4
Arrival in Peru and flight to Arequipa, the "white city" at the foot of the volcanoes.
Settle into your charming hotel, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guided tour: Santa Catalina convent, views of the volcanoes, end-of-day atmosphere in the squares and terraces.
Departure for the Colca Canyon: scenic road, high plateaus, vicuñas and the first great Andean landscapes.
Night(s) in the valley: small villages, hot springs, views of the canyon.
Observing condors at sunrise (if conditions permit).
2. Altiplano & Lake Titicaca
Day 5–7
Crossing the Altiplano towards Lake Titicaca: vast plains, lagoons, herds of llamas and alpacas.
Accommodation in a hotel with a view of the lake or Puno Bay.
Day(s) of sailing: islands, local communities, walks, views of the lake at sunset.
Possibility of spending a night on an island to experience the silence and the lights of Titicaca at sunrise.
3. Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Days 8–12
Road or train to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca empire.
Gentle tour of the city: cobbled streets, secret squares, Inca sites around Cusco.
Departure for the Sacred Valley: Andean villages, markets, major sites (for example Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras/Moray – depending on the version chosen).
1 or 2 nights in the Valley to enjoy the peace and quiet, beautiful accommodations and the light on the mountains.
A day dedicated to Machu Picchu: train journey, ascent to the site, guided tour and free time to soak up the atmosphere.
Back to Cusco for a final Andean evening (good restaurant, music, or simply a beautiful terrace).
4. End of trip & Andean options
Day 13–14+
Reserve day(s) for:
An additional excursion (Rainbow Mountain, high-altitude lagoons, craft workshops…).
Or simply free time to rest, stroll, do your last-minute shopping.
Last night in the heart of the Andes before your return.
Private transfer to the airport for your international flight (which Qhanati can arrange for you)
Practical information
Ideal time
From April to October to enjoy the great Andean landscapes (clear skies, beautiful light, roads in good condition).
The rest of the year is possible, but with a higher risk of rain, especially between January and March.
Level / pace
Easy to moderate walks on trails that sometimes include stairs or slopes.
Long days of driving on mountain tracks, with several changes in altitude.
Altitude can exceed 4,500 m in places: ideal if you are comfortable with walking and accept a "everything goes a little slower" pace at high altitude.
Free time is planned for you to rest, hydrate and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Accommodation
Small charming hotels or boutique hotels in the towns and villages along the route.
Simpler lodges or mountain hostels in some remote areas, but clean and well located.
Upgrading to a higher standard (4-5★) is possible over several stages depending on your budget and travel style.
What's included in your trip
Included:
Custom itinerary design with Qhanati, in French from Switzerland.
Selection of accommodations and coordination of the complete itinerary in the Andes.
All ground transfers included in the program (private car, minivan or 4x4 depending on the stages).
Domestic flights in Peru mentioned in the program (e.g. Lima–Cusco, Arequipa–Lima, depending on the version chosen).
Daily breakfasts and some meals included depending on the details of your program (lunches or dinners in selected locations).
Excursions and visits indicated as included in the program (local guides, entrance fees to sites, specific Andean activities).
Qhanati French-speaking assistance before departure and during the trip (WhatsApp / email).
Assistance with booking international flights via our ticketing partner (AERTICKET): searching for the best options, timetable advice and connections.
My Grand Andes Journey Project
This program is a starting point. Together, we will adjust: number of days, comfort level, budget, special requests (wellness day, craft workshop, deserts and canyons, Amazon, etc.).
Click below, tell me what you would like to experience in the Andes, and I will prepare a "Grand Andes Trip" proposal just for you.
Not included:
Travel insurance (cancellation, repatriation, health).
Meals not mentioned in the program (plan a budget for your culinary discoveries).
Optional activities (flights, private experiences, train/hotel upgrades, etc.).
Tips for guides, drivers, hotel staff.
Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, hotel extras).
International flights – operated by Qhanati:
Return flights to Peru are not included in the price shown.
But Qhanati will take care of booking everything for you.
You only need one contact for your trip: Qhanati.