Fairtrade and Andes Adventure

1. 1–2

   Days 1–2

   Arrive in Peru

   Meal included: dinner

   We begin our journey in Cusco, where we meet our local STC Expedition Leader and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day’s plan will depend on the arrival time of our flight, and we will get our first taste of Peruvian cuisine!

2. 3

   Day 3

   Cusco City Tour

   All meals included

   Our adventure begins with a sightseeing tour of this ancient city, which was previously the capital of the expansive Incan Empire. We stop at various attractions within the city of Cusco and venture up into the surrounding hills to visit Inca ruins, with great views over the city.

3. 4–5

   Days 4–5

   Fairtrade in Huayopata

   All meals included

   We say goodbye to Cusco for now and board the buses to Huayopata. The next few days are spent learning about Cocla Co-operative. This community of Fairtrade coffee farmers saw an opportunity to offer sustainable tourism to boost the farmers’ income and offer visitors a unique insight into their lives. During our time here we will stay with a family in a traditional homestay.

   We begin by learning about the region’s history and the origins of the organisation. We are introduced to the principles of Fairtrade before visiting plantations to explore how coffee, cocoa and other Fairtrade products are grown. Along the way, we meet farmers, hear their stories and gain insight into their daily lives. We will of course have the opportunity to sample fresh coffee and chocolate during our stay. Chocolate will also be a main focus of our time in Huayopata, highlighting how climate change affects farming.

4. 6

   Day 6

   Coffee Tasting, Trek to Aguas Calientes

   All meals included

   This morning we learn more about the production of cacao and coffee and do some coffee tasting. We meet the workers at the Cocla installations to discover more about organic farming and Fairtrade certification. After an insightful stay at the cooperative, we bid goodbye to our hosts and transfer two hours to Santa Teresa. From here we trek from the hydroelectric train station to Aguas Calientes.

5. 7

   Day 7

   Machu Picchu

   All meals included

   We visit the jewel in the crown today, the world famous Machu Picchu. We enjoy a guided tour of the Citadel as well as free time to explore at our own pace, before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch. In the afternoon we take the train back to Cusco.

6. 8

   Day 8

   Biking Tour & Market Visit

   All meals included

   Suitable for all cycling skill levels, this activity is an excellent way to explore Cusco’s surroundings. Our route passes through quaint villages and magnificent mountain views, and we may have the opportunity to stop at some Inca archaeological sites. Following our cycling tour, we head to a local market to see what we can buy with our spending money.

7. 9

   Day 9

   San Pedro Market & Cooking Class

   All meals included

   Ready, steady, cook! Today we focus on the gastronomy of Peru. During the class we will learn how to prepare a few traditional dishes and learn more about the culture and dining etiquette of Peru. This will also be a great opportunity to pick up some new Spanish vocabulary. This afternoon we feast on a meal of our own making!

8. 10

   Day 10

   Urubamba River Rafting

   This great day of rafting takes us down a beautiful section of the Urubamba River. On arrival we receive a full safety briefing and instruction in the art of white -water rafting before starting our adventure. The river flows through a beautiful canyon filled with great rapids and views of the surrounding peaks.

9. 11–12

   Days 11–12

   Depart Cusco, Return UK

   Meal included: breakfast

   On our final day in Peru, we head to the airport in time for our return flight to the UK. Depending on the departure time, there may be an opportunity to pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Itineraries can change with the seasons, local conditions and your group's needs. Ask us and we'll tailor it.