Best of Peru - Premium Adventure

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips which improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

The use of a local guide means our customers will be well informed about local traditions, and cultural and social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally-owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food and support of other local enterprise.
The free day in Cuzco is a good chance to visit Café Manos Unidas, the first vocational training site for young adults with disabilities in Cusco, creating employment opportunities for youth in their own community. In 2018, Exodus funded £5,000 where during the first three months of operation has directly benefitted 15 youths as well as 52 other community members indirectly.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment. On this trip we stay one night in a homestay on traditional Amantani Island, Lake Titicaca.
When visiting Machu Picchu, the costs of permits and for our guided tour will go towards to the upkeep and maintenance of this architectural site.
We adhere to all Machu Picchu regulations. There are limited permits in order to reduce overcrowding and damage due to footfall, but our guides and porters are still very mindful of how we treat the environment. We work with a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy, meaning we have respect for wildlife and the landscape, separate rubbish and take all waste back to a proper disposal place.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste, for example eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles and instead providing refills for re-usable bottles. Our local operator provides water boxes instead of water bottles in order to provide water to the passengers. The boxes are taken back to the office in Cusco for proper recycling.
Our local operator has been certified and verified by Rainforest Alliance since 2015.
Our Animal Welfare Policy ensures all our trips adhere to ABTA’s industry-leading animal welfare guidelines to ensure the best possible practices with regards to working animals and wildlife viewing.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Through our Planet Promise, we have pledged to halve the carbon footprint of our trips by 2030 and made rewilding and carbon compensation commitments for every customer who travels.
Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
Vegetarian options are available at majority of accommodation and restaurants.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own re-usable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.

Itinerary

Expand all

Lima

Fly to Lima.
Welcome to Peru! The group flights arrive into Lima this evening and you will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in the Miraflores district of Lima. The welcome briefing will be held this evening, and after that you'll get your first taste of Peruvian cuisine at a seafront restaurant.
Premium Accommodation: Casa Andina Select Miraflores, Lima (4 star)
Day 1
Start Lima
Welcome to Peru! Your adventure starts at our hotel in the Miraflores district of Lima. The welcome briefing will be held this evening, and after that you'll get your first taste of Peruvian cuisine at a seafront restaurant.
Premium Accommodation: Casa Andina Select Miraflores, Lima (4 star)
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2
Morning fly to Arequipa; afternoon enjoy a city tour and visit to Santa Catalina convent
We have an early start today for our flight to Arequipa, known as the 'White City' due to the pale volcanic stone used to construct many of its fine colonial buildings. This picturesque city is surrounded by 6000m volcanoes, including the near-perfect cone of El Misti. Lunch will be eaten at a typical Arequipa “Picanteria” (watch the spice!). Our afternoon city tour has us exploring the historic centre of Arequipa, the “Plaza de Armas” (Main Square) and finishes at the colourful and serene Santa Catalina convent that was built in 1580 and still cared for by the nuns who reside within.
Premium Accommodation: Hotel Mint, Arequipa (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Day 3
Visit the National Reserve of Salinas hoping to spot Vicunas; transfer to the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, where we spend the next two nights
A spectacular drive over the Andean high plains, known as the Altiplano brings us to the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons. On the way we pass volcanoes and will almost certainly see vicuñas in the highlands before we cross the Patapampa Pass (4910m) which marks the descent into the canyon itself. As we take the winding road to the town of Chivay for a short stop, the sight of the green and fertile terraces of the canyon is a real contrast to the barren yet beautiful landscapes of the Altiplano. This is the first day where we may feel the effects of altitude. We do not linger at the top of the pass, but will spend the night at around 3600m, so it is a good idea to take it easy on arrival and enjoy the natural hot springs at Colca Lodge. Overlooking the Colca River, the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs is a jaw-dropping location to spend the next two nights.
Premium Accommodation: Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, Colca Valley (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Day 4
Early morning to visit Condor’s viewpoint; afternoon explore the Uyu Uyu pre-Inca ruins by foot
Today we have a full day exploring the Colca Canyon, starting with a visit to the Cruz del Condor, the best place to see the mighty Andean condors as they glide on the morning thermals. We also see ancient tombs which line the cliffs on one side of the canyon and make stops in the villages along the way which house several interesting colonial churches. In the afternoon, our location of Colca Lodge allows us to set out on foot to visit the nearby pre-Incan ruins of Uyo Uyo. Afterwards it is back to the lodge for another rejuvenating soak in the natural thermal pools before dinner.
Premium Accommodation: Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, Colca Valley (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Day 5
Drive to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca
Today, we drive through the high mountain plains to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. En route we have opportunities to spot herds of vicuñas before making a short visit to the unique pre-Inca burial towers (chullpas) of Sillustani. Our hotel tonight is ideally situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca and the perfect place to watch sunset over the highest navigable lake in the world.
Premium Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Puno, Puno (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Day 6
Full day exploring Lake Titicaca visiting both Uros and Taquile islands
A full day on Lake Titicaca today as we visit the floating islands of Uros and Taquile. First, we take a boat to Uros Island. The Uros have been living on rafts of reeds for centuries, and although many have now moved to the mainland there are still a couple of thousand who remain on the islands which are anchored close to Puno. A reasonable amount of their income is now provided by strictly regulated tourism, but they also still fish the lake and engage in barter with communities on the mainland to obtain essential daily items.
Afterwards, we visit Taquile Island, home to a community known for their remarkable “male only” weavers and traditional lifestyle. The panoramic views of the lake from the island are incredible, and it is often possible to see the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real in the distance.
Premium Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Puno, Puno (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7
To Cusco; afternoon city walking tour
In the morning we settle in for a relaxing journey across the stark yet beautiful altiplano, which separates the Andes from the jungle. On the way to Cusco we make some stops to stretch our legs, visit some of the most interesting sites and have lunch. We arrive in Cuzco (3400m) this afternoon, with time to have an introductory walking tour of this historic city which features both Inca and Colonial architecture.
Premium Accommodation: Xima Hotel, Cusco (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Day 8
Morning city tour including the Cathedral, Qoricancha and Saqsayhuaman; afternoon to Ollantaytambo
This morning we explore the heart of the Inca Empire, seeing Cusco’s highlights both in and above the city. In the centre, the Cusco Cathedral and Qoricancha (Sun Temple of the Incas) feature arguably the finest example of Inca stonecraft. On the hill overlooking Cusco, we visit the monolithic stone fortress site of Sacsayhuaman, where the Incan armies made their last stand against the Conquistadores. As we head down into the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, we visit the immense Incan fortress and explore this unique village, where many streets and facades remain unchanged and continuously inhabited since Inca times.
Premium Accommodation: Del Pilar Ollantaytambo, Ollantaytambo (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 9
One Day Inca Trail via Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu
We are up early this morning for our scenic train journey through the Urubamba River Valley (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes) to KM 104 where we disembark, cross the river, and start our full day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. Our uphill efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views and access to the attractive ruins of Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), to enjoy our box lunch. From here a relatively flat section of trail brings us past wild orchids to the Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where we get our first full sight of Machu Picchu (Old Peak), with Huayna Picchu (Young Peak) rising picture perfect behind. Our afternoon arrival usually yields great photo opportunities as we casually descend into the ruins complex. With our full tour tomorrow, we exit the site and board the bus to Aguas Calientes to enjoy a well-earned meal, shower and a comfortable bed for the night in preparation for our early return to Machu Picchu.
Premium Accommodation: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu Hotel, Aguas Calientes (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Day 10
Morning visit Machu Picchu; afternoon return to Ollantaytambo
In order to beat the day-trippers arriving from Cuzco and reach the ruins as early as possible, we book early morning access timed bus and entry tickets to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is one of the architectural and engineering marvels of the ancient world and what makes it all the more dramatic is its mountain backdrop of staggering immensity. The Spaniards never found it; the Incas left no records of it, and so Machu Picchu remained a great enigma, a city lost for centuries in the jungle until it was rediscovered in 1911 by the American historian Hiram Bingham.
After our tour we are back down to catch our afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo (1hr 30 mins) with a short drive to our hotel in the Sacred Valley to relax and celebrate our Machu Picchu adventure.
Premium Accommodation: Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel & Villas, Ollantaytambo (5 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Day 11
Sacred Valley tour; visit Chinchero community for a traditional pachamanca lunch; return to Cusco
This morning we depart the scenic Sacred Valley as we head up to the traditional weaving community of Chincheros. Along with amazing views of the valley and Vilcabamba mountain range, at Chincheros we have the unique cultural opportunity to enjoy a traditional Andean 'pachamanca' lunch, which is hosted by and supports the local community. This is a real culinary treat whereby the food is wrapped up and buried in the earth along with hot stones which cook it slowly. After our pachamanca lunch, we return to Cusco for time on your own.
Premium Accommodation: Xima Hotel, Cusco (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Day 12
Free day in Cusco for optional activities
Today has been left free for exploring Cuzco, one of South America's most beautiful cities. The Plaza de Armas is a fantastic spot for people-watching. The Mercado San Pedro is the place to try some local produce and there are many handicraft markets to shop for souvenirs such as alpaca jumpers and scarves. If you fancy something more active then there is an array of other optional activities available from Cuzco including paddle-boarding on a lake, mountain biking, or a combination of via ferrata and zip-lining in the Sacred Valley.
Premium Accommodation: Xima Hotel, Cusco (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 13
Fly to Puerto Maldonado and transfer to Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, our base for exploring the Peruvian Amazon
We leave Cuzco early today and take the short flight to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival we transfer to the riverfront to enjoy a 25minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to reach our jungle accommodation at the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion lodge, located next to the protected Tambopata National Reserve. Tambopata National Reserve is home to a vast number of animal species, as well as a variety of plant life that is greater than almost anywhere in the world. After lunch we have the option to hike into the rainforest with our expert guide who will introduce us to the amazing variety of Amazon flora and fauna. We continue the exploration and take a twilight river cruise viewing nocturnal creatures as they awake.
Premium Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, Puerto Maldonado (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 14
Exploring the Peruvian Amazon
Todays varied activities will generally include a mixture of expertly guided walks along the forest trails, or time spent in canoes to explore Lake Sandoval. This serene lake is home to thousands of species of birds, endangered Giant River otter, Red Howler monkeys, Red-bellied macaws, anacondas, Side-neck turtles and Black caimans. We also have the opportunity to go high into the canopy for a completely different view of the forest via a network of Canopy Walkways. An evening walk is also offered to observe the secret wildlife activity under darkness while exploring the rainforest by night.
Premium Accommodation: Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, Puerto Maldonado (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Day 15
Fly to Lima; final dinner with the group
Enjoy your last morning waking to the cacophony of jungle sounds before we set off by boat from the lodge, visiting the Butterfly House before our departure flight from Puerto Maldonado back to Lima. Upon arrival to Lima, we transfer to our hotel in Miraflores and the hustle and bustle of the city. Tonight, we have a special farewell dinner in Lima at fantastic restaurant at the base of the pre-Incan site of Huaca Pucllana.
Premium Accommodation: Casa Andina Select Miraflores, Lima (4 star)
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Depart Lima.
The trip comes to an end today after breakfast and it's time to bid Peru and the rest of the group goodbye. Transfers to Lima Airport are available for all flight inclusive clients in time for the group flight today.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 16
End Lima
The trip comes to an end today after breakfast and it's time to bid Peru and the rest of the group goodbye. Transfers to Lima Airport are available for all flight inclusive clients in time for the group flight today.
Meals included: Breakfast
Arrive London

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

Show map

Essential Info

Visas

Peru

Visas are not required by UK citizens, Western European nationals, Americans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders, South Africans and most other nationalities. If you are in any doubt please contact the nearest Peruvian Embassy.

Vaccinations

Peru

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements.

Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A.

Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

If you are travelling to the Tambopata reserve in the Amazon rainforest, the risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. We also strongly recommend that you obtain a Yellow Fever vaccination. Dengue fever and/or Chikungunya are known risks in the Amazon region. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites: always apply insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers while in the rainforest to avoid being bitten.

Eating and Drinking

All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners are included.

The tap water in Peru is not safe to drink. Drinking water will be provided in large containers free of charge; please bring a refillable bottle with you.

Hotel breakfasts are normally simple buffet-style affairs, usually including bread/toast and jam, cereal, sometimes eggs or a cooked dish, sometimes fruit, tea/coffee and fruit juice. Regrettably, we cannot guarantee that wheat/gluten free products will be available for breakfast in all locations – if you have an intolerance you may wish to bring your own breakfast food from home.

Where lunch and dinner are not included we'll visit a variety of local cafes and restaurants.

Peruvian cuisine has developed a reputation for its flavours and originality and it’s well worth trying out a few of the local delicacies. Amongst these are ceviche (a spicy dish of seafood or fish marinated in lime juice), lomo saltado (a Peruvian take on a beef stir-fry) and various hearty soups such as the delicious quinoa soup. Other dishes include roasted cuy (guinea pig), Alpaca steak, and to drink, the national beverage: Pisco Sour.

Weather

Peru's diverse geography results in a very varied climate between different regions.

Lima and Paracas fall within the coastal desert region of Peru, with a mild climate and very little rain all year. From April to November the sky is almost always grey and cloudy and the air humid. Average day time temperatures in Lima remain between about 18 and 24 degrees Celsius during this period, with July and August typically being the coolest. Nights are also mild – typically 15-18 degrees Celsius. From December to March the skies in Lima are clear and temperatures at their warmest but elsewhere in the country this is the rainy season.

Cuzco and the Andes have a temperate climate. December to March is the rainy season in Cuzco/the Andes and April to November is the dry season; characterised by clear skies and strong sunshine in the mornings, sometimes clouding over as the day progresses. Daytime temperatures are usually pleasant (approx. 20 degrees C on average) but night times only 5-10 degrees C, except for May, June, July and August when days are cooler and nights are often close to, or a few degrees below, freezing. In the Andes, however, anything is possible at any time of year, including cloud, rain or even snow, and rapid and unexpected changes!

Lake Titicaca and Colca Canyon are high, and at 3,800m and 3,600m above sea level respectively, the sun is strong but the air can be cold, and nights can be close to freezing. You will need to bring some warm layers and a waterproof or wind-stopper.

Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are in the cloud forest and as such attract large amounts of precipitation all year as clouds move up from the Amazon Basin. Rain here can be heavy but is seldom prolonged. Cold fronts sometimes occur from July-August.

Peru is affected by the El Niño weather phenomenon whereby warming of Pacific Ocean surface water off South America drives a shift in the atmospheric circulation resulting in abnormally high levels of rainfall over parts of South America. These events occur at irregular intervals of two to seven years, and last nine months to two years. A strong El Niño event occurred in 2014-16. In El Niño years, temperatures in Lima can be much warmer than described above but it still rarely rains in Lima.

Cuzco

Lima

Is this trip for you?

This is a busy itinerary encompassing the main highlights of southern Peru. You should be aware that the size of Peru means that this holiday involves some long drives and early morning starts. The private buses used are comfortable and the scenery is outstanding. There will be several stops along the way to help break up the long journeys.

Although graded Leisurely/Moderate (level 2), the altitude can make physical activity feel more tiring than at sea level. As this trip spends considerable time at altitude we ask you to refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for more information and advice on how to limit the effects of altitude sickness.

It can be cold at these altitudes, particularly from May until August (although these months benefit from lower rainfall), and you will need to bring appropriate clothing.

Cuzco, Arequipa, and many of the Inca sites (including Machu Picchu) are built on hillsides and sightseeing often involves walking up and down steep streets or on uneven steps or terraces. As such, you should have a good level of mobility and a reasonable level of fitness.

Strikes are not uncommon in Peru and whilst these are generally peaceful protests, they can result in roadblocks and disruption to travel. In this event, your leader will amend your itinerary if necessary to minimise the impact.

List of Regulations for visiting Machu Picchu:

The main points impacting your visit are the following:

The tickets are valid only for one entry which means that you cannot leave the site and re-enter.
Once you have done the chosen circuit with your guide, you cannot walk back to view anything already visited and once you finish the circuit, you will have to leave the site. You can no longer explore the site further after the guided tour.
The two visit times for visiting the site, either 6am-12pm or 12-16.30pm.
The local authorities have restricted the temples which can visited at Machu Picchu depending on the time of the visit to the site.

These regulations will affect how long you are able to spend at Machu Picchu and which temples you can visit. In the past, after the guided tour passengers could stay longer to explore the site, this is not possible anymore. The alternative that we are implementing on our visits to allow you further time, is to explore the upper part of Machu Picchu (Sun Gate and Inca Bridge) before starting the guided tour. The guided tour will be about 2 hrs in duration, and unfortunately at the end of it, you will need to exit the site. You will be able to visit the Sun Temple, but not the Sun Dial Temple or the Condor’s Temple on this itinerary.

Schedule of visit to Machu Picchu on this itinerary:

Early bus to Machu Picchu and explore upper part with the tour leader
Between 9-10am start the guided tour
Between 11.30am-12.30pm passengers leave Machu Picchu

Please see our COVID Travel Guide for Peru for more information on current guidelines for travel in Peru.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Call for general departures:

020 8772 3936

Call for private group trips:

020 3885 9103

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

Accommodation

Premium Accommodation

Unwind at the end of each day in our expertly curated, handpicked accommodation on this Premium Adventure. Each property has been chosen for its excellent location, its comfort and style, and its unique characteristics.

Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs (4 star), Colca Valley. 2 nights.

Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs

Nestled on the banks of the Colca River
45 rustic-style rooms, all with views of the valley and the hotel's gardens
Four thermal pools fed by natural springs, loaded with minerals
Spa offering a full sensory experience in the most spectacular Jacuzzi in Peru

Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción (4 star), Puerto Maldonado. 2 nights.

Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion

Located in the Tambopata National Reserve, deep in the Peruvian Amazon
Individual cabanas on stilts, each a view to the forest or to the cocha
The Casa Grande has two main social areas: a dining/bar area and a scenic lounge
A variety of included activities, all led by local explorer guides

Casa Andina Premium Puno (4 star), Puno. 2 nights.

Casa Andina Premium Puno

Located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world
Spectacular views of the lake from the hotel grounds
Alma Bar Restaurant on site offering traditional dishes with a modern twist

Xima Hotel (4 star), Cusco. 3 nights.

Great location, a short walk from Cuzco's main square
Facilities include a bar, restaurant and spa

Tierra Viva Hotel (4 star), Aguas Calientes.1 night.

Tierra Viva Hotel

Located in the quietest area of Aguas Calientes, facing the Urubamba River
Facilities include a dining room, bar and comfortable lounge with a fireplace
Features a panoramic lift decorated with Andean inspired graffiti by the Peruvian artist Carolina Malaga

The accommodation shown has been booked and agreed in advance, however we may need to make changes to a property of similar or higher standard after you have booked. While we will endeavour to inform you of any changes in advance which could, on rare occasions, be at late notice.

Call for general departures:

020 8772 3936

Call for private group trips:

020 3885 9103

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

Experts

Contact a member of staff who has done this trip

Expert Leader - Holger Collantes

Expert Leader

Expert Leader - Giuliano Gallesi Antinori

Expert Leader

Expert Leader - William Mirano

Expert Leader

See all experts

Call for general departures:

020 8772 3936

Call for private group trips:

020 3885 9103

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

Immerse yourself in these 5 cultural adventures this summer

Expert Blog Entries

Celebrate the winter solstice at Peru’s Inti Raymi Festival, visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter or discover the secrets of Pet

Mountains to Markets: Top 5 Highlights of Morocco

Read time - 2 minutes

Exodus Inca Trail porters visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu & The Inca Trail Porters

Read time - 2 minutes

Our Top Travel Trends for 2022

Reviews

Add your own review

Have you been on this adventure? Tell others what it’s like by writing a review.

See all reviews

Dates & Prices

Please provide as much information as possible below so we can best help with your holiday requirements.

Fields with * are mandatory.

Please call one of our experts to discuss your private group requirements on 0203 993 4668, or fill out the form below and we will give you a call back.

Please provide as much information as possible below so we can best help with your holiday requirements.

Fields with * are mandatory.

An overview of flight options

Exodus is committed to making joining our tours as easy as possible, wherever you live. We generally only block book seats from London, but this certainly does not mean that you need to fly from there. Depending on the route and airlines available, there will usually be various options available for those who want to fly from their local airport.

This page aims to provide a useful overview of the options available to our clients. However, the best flight arrangements should be tailored to your personal requirements, so please contact our Sales team for expert advice.

What kind of options do I have ?

1. We can book for you: Flights from anywhere in the world - not via London

Depending on the route, this may be direct or via an overseas hub like Amsterdam, the Middle East or elsewhere. On short haul routes there may be direct flights with low cost airlines, charter flights or scheduled airlines. Exodus can book most, but not all, of these for you. The most appropriate airline may be different to that which we use for the group flight from London, but many people now travel on different airlines and meet up with their fellow passengers at the destination.

Pros	Cons
May be the most direct route Often the extra fare compared to the London flight is minimal. As you will be in the hands a single airline for your entire journey, the airline will be responsible for your bags and your connections.	You may not be able to join the group transfers. However, we can usually arrange private transfers, or book your flights to try and coincide with the group transfers. See notes on transfer arrangements below.

2. We can book for you: Connecting flights from your local airport to London

Exodus can book connecting flights to London so you can join the group flight there. Connecting times will be followed according to airline advice, or as requested by clients. There are two types of fares we can use for this option: a 'through-fare' or a 'published fare'.

a) A 'through-fare' is where you will be in the main airline's care throughout. You change planes, but your bags are checked all the way through to your final destination.

b) A 'published fare' ticket is completely seperate from your onward ticket from London. It is usually cheaper than a through-fare but will need to be paid for and issued as soon as it is booked. This can be a problem if your tour has not yet reached minimum numbers. On 'published fares' neither airline is aware that you have connecting flights, so Exodus is responsible for timing your connection, not the airlines involved. The tickets are also usually non changeable and non refundable.

Pros	Cons
Depending on the fare type, Exodus or the airline is responsible for flight connections.	Through fare tickets can be expensive. On a published fare, tickets must be issued immediately; tickets on published fares can be very difficult to change if onward flight times change; bags are not checked though to your final destination. Published fares are non-refundable.

3. Booking some or all of the flights yourself

You can also book connecting air travel yourself, either to London, or all the way to the start point. There may be certain airlines or routes we don't have access to, so this is always an option. However, if you make your own travel arrangements you become liable for any delays, cancellations or missed connections, and Exodus is not required to offer refunds if you have trouble reaching the start of your trip.

Pros	Cons
You might find cheaper fares, or routes not available to Exodus.	You are responsible for any delays or missed connections, and the cost of the tour is not protected should you miss your flight be cancelled.

Notes on transfer arrangements

Sometimes it is possible to travel on a different airline to the group flight from London. Where this is the case, we need to think about ensuring you meet up with the group with minimum extra cost and hassle.

On certain trips, it is easy to arrive on a different flight and still meet the group at the hotel with time in hand. We can usually arrange private transfers (at extra cost) or offer advice on taking a taxi to the start hotel.
On other trips (especially in Europe), the transfer meets the group flight and then travels some distance to the first night's accommodation. Where this is the case, our Sales team will try to arrange flights that arrive before (and depart after) the group. However, we do have to make it clear in your final documentation that if your flights are delayed, the transfer cannot wait for you. While Exodus or our local operators will do what we can to help you reach the start point of the tour, any additional costs must be paid by the client.

Next steps?

Call our Sales team on: 0203 733 0698

Email your query: [email protected]

Trip Extension: If you would like to visit the Amazon Rainforest it is possible to extend your trip. For more details please refer to the Trip Notes or call our Sales team, who will be happy to assist you.

Private Adventures

Not found the date you’re looking for? We can organise this itinerary as a Private Adventure – just click on the tab above the list of dates and prices, let us know your preferred dates of travel and how many people are travelling, and we’ll do the rest!

Trips you might also like

Essential Peru

135 reviews

Discover southern Peru's archaeological and natural wonders

Culture

Activity level:

Leisurely / Moderate

Ages: 16+

15 Days from £2,249

Guided (Excl. Flights)

Peru Explorer

35 reviews

An in-depth discovery of southern Peru from the Andes to the Amazon

Culture

Activity level:

Leisurely / Moderate

Ages: 16+

20 Days from £3,499

Guided (Excl. Flights)

Amazon Rainforest Cruise - Premium Adventure

Premium

Led by expert naturalists and environmentalists, voyage into the world's largest river basin

Premium Adventures

Activity level:

Leisurely / Moderate

Ages: 16+

10 Days from £6,799

Guided (Excl. Flights)

Pura Vida Costa Rica - Premium Adventure

New
Premium

The best of Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific.

Premium Adventures

Activity level:

Leisurely

Ages: 16+

13 Days from £3,899

Guided (Excl. Flights)