Let’s go to Peru! This is your tour page and you can come back anytime and share it with others going.
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Begin your journey to Peru's vibrant capital city. This is a long day from the USA. Get some sleep on the plane. These flights almost always arrive in Lima at night. If you bought an international LATAM ticket, you will go through transit gates for Bolivia. If you used another airline, you will pass through immigration and customs and then check in for your red eye flight to La Paz, Bolivia. This flight leaves around 1 am and lands at 4 am. After customs and immigration in Bolivia, you will be met by Van Evans or his associate. Then we will drop down into the capital city of La Paz and check into a hotel.
Have some breakfast and then sleep until 11 am. Then we will board transportation for the two-hour drive to visit the archeaological site of Tiwanaku. Also called Taypikala (center of the world), Tiwanaku is the location where natives say the bearded white god Wiraqocha (weed-a-koh-cha) descended from the heavens in the “form of a brightly shining man.” This is the most sacred location of all the temples along the Holy Path. This is where Christ first appeared to the Andeans. We will see the Door of the Sun (at left), which was interpreted, in part, by President Spencer W. Kimball when he visited Bolivia in 1977. Return to La Paz. We may have time to shop in Calle Sagarnaga or visit Calle Jaén, the colonial street of the city.
After breakfast, check out and we will drive three and a half hours to Copacabana on the shores of Lake Titicaca. To get there we will cross the lake in a ferry at Tiquina (where Christ also visited). You will feel the positive spirit and energy as we get closer to this sacred area. At Copacabana, we will check in the Hotel Rosario or take a private boat to the Island of the Sun (Isla del Sol) and check in a boutique hotel there. This is the second stop along the Holy Path where the Savior taught the people. The people then built the Temple of the Sun which had a veil. We will visit the remains of that Temple of the Sun on the Island. The Augustinian Friar Baltasar de Salas found gold plates buried on this island with engraved scriptures. Dinner at the hotel.
This will be a long day. Early in the morning we will board a private boat to visit the temples Island of the Moon and the Island of the Sun if we have not already been there. On the Island of the Moon, a dramatic temple ceremony took place with actors who represented characters. Return to the airport above La Paz and fly a short 90 minutes to Cusco, Peru. Have dinner in the city and then our driver will take us to our hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Get some rest.
After breakfast, attend church at the Urubamba Branch. Then change your clothes and check out, donating your church clothes to the members and future missionaries. Then we will be treated to a visit to the ruins of Ollantaytambo where the Savior visited the people and where they carved His face into the mountain. There is a good spirit there. Later we will visit the Inca Salt Mines and agricultural ruins of Moray. Dinner in Urubamba. For those so inclined, we can hike an hour down the Inca Trail from the salt mines and meet up with the bus on the other side of the Sacred River (Vilcanota). Get to bed early tonight.
Just take your day pack and the bus will drive us to Ollantaytambo to the train station to board a late morning train to Machu Picchu. In just under two hours the train arrives in Aguas Calientes, the town below the ruins. We may have time for lunch in Aguas Calientes. Then we will walk to the bus transfer which will take us up to Machu Picchu and spend a few hours at this remarkable Inca sanctuary (you may opt to Add On the climb to Huayna Picchu or the hike from Kilometer 104). Meet back down in the town to have an early dinner and then board the train back to the Sacred Valley. Trains are on time in Peru! Don’t be late! We will be met at the train station in Ollantaytambo and taken back to the hotel.
Sad to leave the Sacred Valley, the bus will take us up to the Raqchi scenic overlook of the valley. If interested, do the zip line across the canyon. Then we will visit the town of Chincheros and see how the women dye and spin and weave. They may feed us lunch too! After that, we will continue on to Cusco and check into the Marriott Convent hotel. Cusco is the oldest continually inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere. People have been living there since around 800 AD. Dinner on your own. The rest of the evening is free to roam the city of Cusco.
On this day we will visit 3 temple sites along the Holy Path the Savior sojourned. First we will walk to the Temple of Coricancha, now a monastery. After the tour, we will drive south and stop to see the probable temple site at Urcos and stroll along the Holy Path. Then on to visit the Temple of Wiraqocha at Raqch’i (built to worship Wiraqocha, the white bearded god). The shaman Grivanesa, at left, will give us a tour of the temple grounds and the washings and anointings they still do there.
Enjoy your last morning in Cusco. See the 12-angled rock or one of the cathedrals in the main plaza. We will take a late morning or early afternoon flight back to Lima. In Lima, we first head to the Larco Museum, one of the best in Peru. Then we will check in the hotel and the evening is free. For dinner, enjoy the famous gastronomy of Lima.
This morning we will visit the colonial sector of Lima, including the presidential palace and main plaza de armas. We’ll walk to the colonial San Francisco church and tour the underground catacombs to see the bones of thousands. Then we can head over to Miraflores for last minute shopping or on to Larco Mar to have our final tour dinner on the cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. After dinner, the bus will take us to the airport for our late night flight back to the USA.
But if you don't think 11 days is enough adventure and you crave more, try one of our Add On’s.
Plus all airfare (USA city to Lima round trip and Peru domestic airfare). Price based on double occupancy. Includes a $500 non-refundable deposit if you cancel for any reason. Application deadline is usually 120 days before you travel. If you sign up in less than 90 days prices on airfare as well as hotels can go up. Those choosing single occupancy will pay an additional $700 for Lima, Cusco, and other hotels. Includes: travel insurance, 4–5 star hotels (youth groups are cheaper because they stay in 3-4 star hotels), bus, tours, ruins entrances, breakfast, some lunches, and the Machu Picchu train, entrance, and tour. Does not include: some lunches and all dinners, personal taxi rides, souvenirs, tips, incidentals, and medical vaccines or treatments. Itinerary subject to change based on airline or train schedules.
Cancellation & Refunds
Airfare is usually not refundable, but you may retain your ticket and negotiate directly with the airlines for future flights. If one or more persons cancel prior to 120 days, all but airfare and $500 of the package amount for each is refundable by check within 30 days. If you cancel between 120 and 90 days you will receive a refund for all but airfare and 25% of the total amount by check within 30 days. If you cancel between 90 and 30 days you will receive a refund for all but airfare and 50% of the total amount by check within 30 days. There are no refunds less than 30 days as all air, travel, tour, and accommoda- tions are prepaid and/or have cancellation fees.
Expedition Operator and Leader Van C. Evans
Van C. Evans served a church mission in Peru (’79–’81) and is founder of Southern Cross Expeditions and Generations Humanitarian. He has led dozens of tourist, humanitarian, and archeological expeditions to Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia since 1998. More than 900 people from 8 to 80 years old have joined him on these adventures, and so far, everyone has survived. And quite a few have come back several times more! He owned an ecotourism resort in the Peruvian Amazon from 2000-2006 and as of 2024 has been to Peru 82 times. He is fluent in Spanish and conversant in Portuguese and Quechua (which he learned as a missionary on horseback in the high Andes).
He has graduate degrees from the University of Utah and the University of Pennsylvania. He was trained as a research sociologist (similar to anthropology) at Indiana University–Purdue University, where he received his doctorate in Philanthropic Studies. He has published academic articles and book chapters. He is the author of Willka Wasin Wiraqocha — The House of the Lord.
| First Name | Last Name | Phone Number | DOB | Passport # | Expiry | Cost | Paid | Balance | COGS | ||
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The following individuals are listed here as participants of your tour. Add and edit members to your tour.
Agreement This document is provided as a summary of key items of understanding and agreement as a potential expedition participant/ volunteer. You must review, sign, and submit this application along with your deposit before you will be considered as a participant with Southern Cross Expeditions (SCE).
1. THIS IS AN ADVENTURE. I understand that SCE expeditions are not luxury beach vacations and I need to prepare myself physically and mentally to face primitive, frustrating and disquieting conditions while traveling in Developing Nations, and working with indigent people. I agree to be patient, kind, hard working, and helpful at all times.
2. Preparation. As a participant, I am responsible for reading and understanding the information in the Expedition Handbook, and to contact the Tour/Expedition leader if I have questions. I understand I may be required to attend briefing meetings, where locally possible, held by SCE Expedition Leader.
3. Requirements. I understand that I will not be able to participate in the Tour/Expedition until I submit the necessary forms, payments, passport copy, and other legal documentation required for travel by SCE due dates. These items are listed in the Expedition Handbook.
4. Risk. I understand that I am responsible for my own luggage, insurance claims, health, and belongings. While SCE goes to great lengths to insure my wellbeing, SCE is not responsible for the cost of my medical care or any theft, loss or damage I incur during or as a result of this expedition. I undertake this expedition at my own risk and sign this disclaimer to that end.
5. Arrangements. To help facilitate the expedition, Southern Cross Expeditions may arrange for group travel, accommodations, and so forth. I understand that these services may be contracted with travel agencies, airlines, hotel chains, or other companies or individuals and that SCE is not responsible for their performance, security, safety or my satisfaction. As an applicant for this Southern Cross Expeditions tour, I have read and agree to the terms of this Agreement.
YOU AGREE: By submitting this online application your are agreeing that you understand the above Agreement, the Terms and Conditions set forth below or to the right, you agree that the above information you have entered into this online contract is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
SUBMIT APPLICATION
COST: All prices are quoted in U.S. dollars. They are based on tariffs, airfares, accommodation rates, and rates of exchange quoted to SCE at the time of publication. These prices are expected to be in effect at the time of departure; however, prices are subject to change without notice. SCE will make every effort to avoid price increases; however, any changes in price made by the airlines, hotels, vendors, operators, etc., with which SCE has made arrangements, may be passed on to the participants. If such rates change prior to departure, SCE is not under any obligation to pay extra expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances, such as a change of itinerary or means of transportation, etc. Extra charges are at the participant’s expense and will require immediate settlement.
APPLICATION, PAYMENTS, AND CANCELLATION: Early reservations are strongly recommended, and a deposit per person is required at the time of booking. Final documents (including airline tickets) cannot be sent until final payment is received. Checks should be made payable to Southern Cross Expeditions, LLC. All applications are subject to approval by SCE and the expedition leader. All cancellation penalties are the responsibility of the participant, including a minimum $500 non-refundable deposit.
HEALTH: We advise each participant to have a physical checkup before applying for the expedition, and bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications. SCE cannot be responsible for illnesses that may occur while traveling. Since projects and sightseeing can be physically taxing, we recommend that persons who suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, or any physical impairment which could hinder them from normal participation contact the expedition leader prior to submitting an application.
INSURANCE: While limited theft, medical, and accident insurance is included with this program, SCE is not an insuring agent and is not responsible for any injury to your person. Further detailed information on this insurance coverage will be given at an tour briefing meeting or via email. SCE is not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to your belongings. Baggage and cancellation insurance is recommended and is available at nominal rates through private insurance companies. In the event of a claim, you are responsible to process your claim directly with the insurance company.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Participants must carry a valid passport. Participants will be provided with information concerning passports, visas, and immunizations where needed, but obtaining them are the responsibility of the applicant.
ACCOMMODATIONS: We seek to provide well-located accommodations (not always in the center of the city) representative of the area, which provide typical cuisine; clean, pleasant rooms with private bathrooms and efficient management. The class of lodging is consistent with the price category of the expedition. In some rural project areas expedition participants will sleep in tents and/or other rustic encampments without permanent bathroom facilities or heating. Expedition participants should make themselves fully aware of the living conditions provided with each expedition before applying.
ROOMMATES: Single participants may request specific roommates and will be assigned roommates of the same sex only. Those seeking a private room, where available, agree to pay the increased cost to the expedition leader prior to departure.
ITEMS NOT INCLUDED: Items of a personal nature, such as excess baggage or porterage charges; personal, trip, or baggage insurance; room service; laundry; phone calls; bottled drinking water; food or beverages not part of the group menu; gratuities for special services; passports; immunization fees; etc.
NOTICE: SCE reserves the right to make changes or substitutions in the interest of the tour in order to meet unexpected situations, such as increases in fares and lodging rates, airline failures, changes in currency rates, etc., prior to departure. Additional charges or refunds will be made to participants where applicable. However, no refund will be made for lodging or services, included in the price, which are not utilized during the program by the participant. We reserve the right to cancel the program, if deemed necessary for reasons including insufficient program participation and circumstances beyond SCE’s control, such as strikes, lockouts, riots, wars, or Acts of God. In such an event, SCE shall have no responsibility, beyond the refund of deposits and monies paid to SCE by the participants. A refund will then be made to participants, within 30 days, by means of a bank check. Refunds for airline tickets must be solicited directly from the airline.
STANDARDS: Tour participants are ambassadors of the United States and Southern Cross Expeditions and individual behavior should be of the highest calibre, so as to not jeopardize the good name of the group and SCE. All participants are required to maintain ideals and standards in harmony with Christian ideals. High standards of honor, integrity, and morality (including sexual morality); graciousness in personal behavior; application of Christian ideals in everyday living; and abstinence from illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are mandatory. SCE expeditions do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, orientation, gender, color, or ethnic or national origin, but all participants must maintain the ideals and standards of SCE during the entire expedition.
Agreement This document is provided as a summary of key items of understanding and agreement as a potential expedition participant/ volunteer. You must review, sign, and submit this application along with your deposit before you will be considered as a participant with Southern Cross Expeditions (SCE).
1. THIS IS AN ADVENTURE. I understand that SCE expeditions are not luxury beach vacations and I need to prepare myself physically and mentally to face primitive, frustrating and disquieting conditions while traveling in Developing Nations, and working with indigent people. I agree to be patient, kind, hard working, and helpful at all times.
2. Preparation. As a participant, I am responsible for reading and understanding the information in the Expedition Handbook, and to contact the Tour/Expedition leader if I have questions. I understand I may be required to attend briefing meetings, where locally possible, held by SCE Expedition Leader.
3. Requirements. I understand that I will not be able to participate in the Tour/Expedition until I submit the necessary forms, payments, passport copy, and other legal documentation required for travel by SCE due dates. These items are listed in the Expedition Handbook.
4. Risk. I understand that I am responsible for my own luggage, insurance claims, health, and belongings. While SCE goes to great lengths to insure my wellbeing, SCE is not responsible for the cost of my medical care or any theft, loss or damage I incur during or as a result of this expedition. I undertake this expedition at my own risk and sign this disclaimer to that end.
5. Arrangements. To help facilitate the expedition, Southern Cross Expeditions may arrange for group travel, accommodations, and so forth. I understand that these services may be contracted with travel agencies, airlines, hotel chains, or other companies or individuals and that SCE is not responsible for their performance, security, safety or my satisfaction. As an applicant for this Southern Cross Expeditions tour, I have read and agree to the terms of this Agreement.
YOU AGREE: By submitting this online application your are agreeing that you understand the above Agreement, the Terms and Conditions set forth below or to the right, you agree that the above information you have entered into this online contract is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
SUBMIT APPLICATION
COST: All prices are quoted in U.S. dollars. They are based on tariffs, airfares, accommodation rates, and rates of exchange quoted to SCE at the time of publication. These prices are expected to be in effect at the time of departure; however, prices are subject to change without notice. SCE will make every effort to avoid price increases; however, any changes in price made by the airlines, hotels, vendors, operators, etc., with which SCE has made arrangements, may be passed on to the participants. If such rates change prior to departure, SCE is not under any obligation to pay extra expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances, such as a change of itinerary or means of transportation, etc. Extra charges are at the participant’s expense and will require immediate settlement.
APPLICATION, PAYMENTS, AND CANCELLATION: Early reservations are strongly recommended, and a deposit per person is required at the time of booking. Final documents (including airline tickets) cannot be sent until final payment is received. Checks should be made payable to Generations Humanitarian. All applications are subject to approval by SCE and the expedition leader. All cancellation penalties are the responsibility of the participant, including a minimum $500 non-refundable deposit.
HEALTH: The USA may require a negative COVID-19 test upon reentry. We advise each participant to have a physical checkup before applying for the expedition, and bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications. SCE cannot be responsible for illnesses that may occur while traveling. Since projects and sightseeing can be physically taxing, we recommend that persons who suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure, or any physical impairment which could hinder them from normal participation contact the expedition leader prior to submitting an application.
INSURANCE: While limited theft, medical, and accident insurance is included with this program, SCE is not an insuring agent and is not re- sponsible for any injury to your person. Further detailed information on this insurance coverage will be given at an expedition briefing meeting. SCE is not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to your belongings. Baggage and cancellation insurance is recommended and is available at nominal rates through private insurance companies. In the event of a claim, you are responsible to process your claim directly with the insurance company.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Participants must carry a valid passport. Participants will be provided with information concerning passports, visas, and immunizations where needed, but obtaining them are the responsi- bility of the applicant.
ACCOMMODATIONS: We seek to provide well-located accommoda- tions (not always in the center of the city) representative of the area, which provide typical cuisine; clean, pleasant rooms with private bathrooms and efficient management. The class of lodging is consistent with the price category of the expedition. In some rural project areas expedition participants will sleep in tents and/or other rustic encampments without permanent bathroom facilities or heating. Expedition participants should make themselves fully aware of the living conditions provided with each expedition before applying.
ROOMMATES: Single participants may request specific roommates and will be assigned roommates of the same sex only. Those seeking a private room, where available, agree to pay the increased cost to the expedition leader prior to departure.
ITEMS NOT INCLUDED: Items of a personal nature, such as excess baggage or porterage charges; personal, trip, or baggage insurance; room service; laundry; phone calls; bottled drinking water; food or beverages not part of the group menu; gratuities for special services; passports; immunization fees; etc.
NOTICE: SCE reserves the right to make changes or substitutions in the interest of the expedition in order to meet unexpected situations, such as increases in fares and lodging rates, airline failures, changes in currency rates, etc., prior to departure. Additional charges or refunds will be made to participants where applicable. However, no refund will be made for lodging or services, included in the price, which are not utilized during the program by the participant. We reserve the right to cancel the program, if deemed necessary for reasons including insufficient program participation and circumstances beyond SCE’s control, such as strikes, lockouts, riots, wars, or Acts of God. In such an event, SCE shall have no responsibility, beyond the refund of deposits and monies paid to SCE by the participants. A refund will then be made to participants, within 30 days, by means of a bank check.
STANDARDS: Expedition participants are ambassadors of the United States and Generations Humanitarian and individual behavior should be of the highest calibre, so as to not jeopardize the good name of the group and SCE. All participants are required to maintain ideals and standards in harmony with Christian ideals. High standards of honor, integrity, and morality (including sexual morality); graciousness in personal behavior; application of Christian ideals in everyday living; and abstinence from illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are mandatory. SCE expeditions do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, orientation, gender, color, or ethnic or national origin, but all participants must maintain the ideals and standards of SCE during the entire expedition.