Peru - Gringo Trail

Itinerary: Gringo Trail

TWO WEEKS/LIMA TO CUZCO & MACHU PICCHU

The loop from Lima, along the coastal deserts, up to Lake Titicaca and ending at Machu Picchu, is one of the most popular routes on the continent.

Leaving Lima, journey south along the coast to Paracas where there are boat tours to the wildlife-rich Islas Ballestas. Then it's on to Ica, Peru's wine and pisco capital, and perhaps do some sand-boarding. Next is Nazca for a flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines. You then climb to get to the 'white city' of Arequipa, with its relaxed atmosphere and colonial architecture. While there, take an excursion to Canyon del Colca, among the world's deepest, and maybe climb El Misti, a breathless 5822m high.

It's upwards to Puno, Peru's port on Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, for a visit to traditional Isla Taquile, which has no roads or vehicles, and a side-trip to Sillustani. Then a fast bus or slow train takes you to Cuzco, the archaeological capital of the Americas. The adventurous can trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which can also be visited less strenuously by comfortable trains from Cuzco.

A traveler could do this trip in two weeks. However, a meandering month is ideal and will help with acclimatization - spend a few days in Arequipa before hitting the heights of Lake Titicaca (3830m). Finish the loop with a quick Cuzco-Lima flight.