Machu Picchu and the Amazon Small Group Tours

2026 Peru Tour: Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest Adventure

Embark on a breathtaking small group tour through Peru’s legendary Machu Picchu and the vibrant Amazon rainforest. Join The Traveling Professor, led by Peru travel expert Steve Solosky, on a custom-crafted journey that blends ancient Incan history, stunning natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences. This exclusive itinerary offers the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and discovery — the kind of adventure you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Why Travel to Machu Picchu with The Traveling Professor

Travel with confidence under the guidance of Professor Stephen Solosky, a nationally recognized Peru expert featured in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times Travel Show. His small-group tours are known for their personal attention, expert local guides, and seamless logistics. From start to finish, every detail is handled so you can focus on enjoying the wonder of Peru.

Explore Cusco — The Ancient Heart of the Inca Empire

Your adventure begins in Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage city and the former capital of the Inca Empire. Discover ancient temples, colonial architecture, and colorful markets brimming with local crafts. Enjoy guided visits to archaeological sites, vibrant plazas, and world-class restaurants that make Cusco one of South America’s most exciting culinary destinations.

Experience the Magic of Machu Picchu

Witness the majesty of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders. Enjoy a fully guided tour of the ancient citadel and, for early risers, a second-day visit to hike a section of the Inca Trail and watch the sunrise over the Andes. With limited entry tickets and carefully timed visits, The Traveling Professor ensures a comfortable and awe-inspiring experience at this iconic site.

(If Inca Trail or Machu Picchu circuits are unavailable, an alternate route will be provided.)

Journey into the Amazon Rainforest

Continue your adventure deep into the Peruvian Amazon with a stay at the award-winning Inkaterra Amazonica Lodge, one of the top eco-lodges in the world. Located on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, this luxury jungle retreat offers guided excursions led by expert naturalists. Explore canopy walkways, twilight river cruises, and wildlife-rich rainforest trails where you might spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and caimans.

A Fully Guided Small Group Experience

This small group tour of Peru is designed for curious travelers who seek authentic experiences without the crowds. With 12–16 travelers per group, you’ll enjoy personalized service, expert local insight, and seamless travel from Cusco to the Amazon.

Join The Traveling Professor on this unforgettable journey through Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Amazon Rainforest — a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that captures the spirit and magic of Peru.

• 2 Nights in Cusco, 2 nights in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), 1 additional night in Cusco (on return from Machu Picchu), 3 nights in Amazon.  Breakfast is included at all hotels.
• At the Inkaterra Lodge in the Amazon, all meals are included. 
• All dinners included at Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• One buffet lunch at authentic Peruvian Hacienda on Urumbamba River.
• Flight from Cusco to Amazon (Puerto Maldonado).
• Transfers between airports in Cusco and Puerto Maldonado and hotels.
• Train and private van transportation between Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
• Private tours in Cusco, Machu Picchu, and private guiding services with certified Naturalist in Amazon.
• 2 days admission to Machu Picchu with transportation.
• Professional guide services.  A tour leader is with the group 24/7.
• Rich, ambitious, and smartly planned itinerary.

• Everyone feels welcome with a small group of 14-18 friendly travelers. 
• Every traveler has input on what we see and do on this trip.
• Top-rated, well located hotels.  In Cusco, our hotel is equipped with an "intelligent oxygen system" to minimize the effects of altitude issues.  The all-inclusive Inkaterra Amazonica is one of the top-rated eco-lodges in the world.
• Our experienced tour leaders get you off the beaten path.  Unique hikes and trails. Scenic vistas and sites not commonly visited by other tourists. 
• Solo travelers as well as those with travel partners welcome.  Each tour is different, but usually half of our travelers are solo women travelers.
• We are one of the few tours offering 2 nights in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) with a 2 mile walk along the Inca Trail.*
• Personal Service: The Professor makes sure you are well-prepared for the tour. We advise on all aspects of the trip such as air itineraries, money matters, packing, passports, and what to expect on this tour.  We are here to help - call us (413.528.2125) or email us with your questions.
• Well-planned itineraries for those who like to see and do a lot.  We know how to avoid the biggest crowds.

^{*In the event The Inca Trail or other Machu Picchu circuits are not available, another circuit will be substituted}

Travel Details, Lodging & Health Information

Arrival and Airfare Assistance

Travelers arrange their own flights and meet the group at the hotel in Peru. Airfare is not included in the tour price, but The Traveling Professor team provides complimentary assistance with flight planning and scheduling to ensure smooth arrivals and departures.

Traveler Health & Wellness

This small group Peru tour involves moderate activity, including walking tours, stairs, and high-altitude travel. Participants must be in good health, with no mobility, respiratory, or cardiac issues. It is strongly recommended that you consult your healthcare professional prior to travel regarding any necessary immunizations or medications for travel in Peru and the Amazon region.

Exceptional Lodging Throughout Your Journey

Experience hand-selected, top-rated hotels that reflect the culture and beauty of Peru:

• Cusco: Stay at the elegant Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel, a luxurious property housed in a restored 16th-century mansion featuring modern amenities and Incan-colonial charm.

• Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu): Enjoy the world-renowned Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, set in lush cloud-forest gardens at the foot of the ancient citadel.

• Amazon Rainforest: Relax at the award-winning Inkaterra Amazonica Lodge, a world-class, all-inclusive eco-lodge located along the Madre de Dios River — the ultimate rainforest retreat.

Additional nights in Peru are available upon request, allowing travelers to extend their stay and explore even more of this magnificent country.

• Find our 2026 dates here.

• November 2024
• October 2024
• November 2022
• October 2022
• April 2019
• March 2018
• March 2017