Peru Essentials

Destination Lima Arequipa Canyon del Colca Puno Sicuani Cusco Sacred Valley
Duration 14 days 13 nights
Dates & Prices
Date of travel

 

Tour Highlights

 

Inca luxury tour Peru Peru Machu Picchu Luxury trip lama Peru Titicaca Lake Peru travel
Inca heritage Machu Picchu Lamas and alpacas Lake Titicaca

 

 

Experiences

Relax in Kennedy Park in the residential district of Miraflores in Lima. Feel immersed in the colonial atmosphere of Arequipa by spending the night in a colonial house of 18th century. Explore the typical villages along the Colca Canyon and discover the local lifestyle. Admire the magnificent landscapes of the Andean Cordillera and its typical fauna crossing the Reserva of Salinas y Aguada Blanca. Discover the four archeological sites of Cusco illustrating perfectly the cults, the traditions and the rituals of the Incas.

 

Your tour at a glance

If you would like to explore the main highlights of the land of the Incas far from mass tourism, your dedicated guide will offer you this possibility. During this luxury trip of 14 days, he will be always at your disposal and will take you through the most unusual places and landscapes of Peru. Feel immersed in the colonial atmosphere of Arequipa, admire the breathtaking landscapes of Colca Canyon and the Rainbow Mountain, discover the inhabitants and the local life on the picturesque islands of Lake Titicaca and, of course, admire the architectural genius of the Incas by visiting the famous Machu Picchu and their on-time capital, Cusco.

 

Day 1 : Arrival in Lima
Day 1 : Arrival in Lima

Welcome to Lima. We invite you to discover the unequaled marvels of the land of the Incas, the rich heritage they left, the amazing landscapes of Altiplano as well as the colonial past of Peru and the life of nowadays. Upon your arrival to Lima, your private guide will welcome you at the airport and will take you to your hotel. Later you will start to discover the capital of contrasts with your guide. The Kennedy Park located in the residential district of Miraflores is the best place for your leisure in Lima. The Barranco district will be for you a nice opportunity to discover the bohemian life of the capital. The historical center of Lima will give you the possibility to admire the colonial heritage left by the Spanish conquistadors. Your guide will be always at your disposal to make you discover the capital according to your points of interest. Overnight in Lima.

Day 2 : Flight from Lima to Arequipa
Day 2 : Flight from Lima to Arequipa

In the morning, you will take the flight with your guide to reach the ''white city'' of Arequipa. Here you will have the opportunity to travel back in time to 16th century and admire this exceptional example of the colonial settlement of Spanish conquistadors. Arequipa is well known also for its Museo Santuarios Andinos, sheltering the famous Inca mummy of ''Juanita''. Your guide will give you all necessary explanations about this Inca girl and the importance of the discovery of a mummy dating back to the XV century. Later you can stroll through the alleys around the historical Plaza de Armas which are particularly pleasant. You will conclude your day by spending your night in a charming colonial house of XVIII century if you want to feel immersed in the colonial atmosphere of Arequipa. Overnight in Arequipa.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 3 : Arequipa sightseeing
Day 3 : Arequipa sightseeing

What makes Arequipa so appealing? Today your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you to discover the convent of Santa Catalina, a real city in the city. One of the most interesting features of this monument is that everything here has remained the same since the 16th century. The only thing that has been changed after the independence of Peru, is the life of the local nun's inside the convent. How was their life some centuries ago and how they live today, discover it with your guide. After lunch, you will discover also the mummy of Juanita, being the most important exhibit of the Museo Santuarios Andinos. Was the mummification practiced by the Incas only, or this practice existed even before? You will learn about it during your visit. You will have free time at your leisure in the evening. Overnight in Arequipa.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 4 : From Arequipa to Canyon del Colca (3.5h driving)
Day 4 : From Arequipa to Canyon del Colca (3.5h driving)

Besides the heritage left by the conquistadors and the Inca Empire, Peru has to offer to its visitors different natural marvels, such as the amazing Canyon del Colca. Today you will enjoy the beautiful landscapes that it offers. Along the way to the canyon, you will cross the Reserva de Salinas y Aguada Blanca. This reserve also offers breathtaking landscapes nestled in the middle of snow-covered volcanoes. On the way you will have the opportunity to stop and see herds of alpacas and the famous vicuñas whose wool is the sweetest and most expensive in Peru. It only gives 300 grams of wool per year. Later, we will arrive to Chivay, one of the typical villages along the Colca Canyon. In Chivay you will meet rural people who come to sell their crops and crafts in the small village market. After lunch, we will organize an excursion to the pre-Inca ruins of the archaeological site of Uyo Uyo, located in Yanque, certainly a destination out off the beaten path. Overnight in Yanque.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 5 : Trekking in Canyon del Colca
Day 5 : Trekking in Canyon del Colca

Today we suggest you to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Colca Canyon, by making a hiking. You will start your day by visiting the Cruz del Condor, from where a breathtaking view on the canyon opens and where you will be able to observe the majestic condors of the Andes hovering over the canyon. Later, you will go to the village of Cabanaconde, located at 3300 meters above sea level. This village is a starting point for various excursions organized to discover unique landscapes of the canyon. Please note, you must be in good physical condition for a trekking there as the road is often very steep and you have to take into account important altitude difference (more than 1000 meters) and the lack of oxygen which makes efforts more difficult. Thus, we will organize an excursion to the village of Sangalle, also known as Oasis of Sangalle (approximate duration of the hike 5-6 hours). In Sangalle you can relax in the spring water pools, have lunch before heading back to Cabanaconde. On your return to Cabanaconde, your guide-driver will drive you back to Yanque. Overnight in Yanque.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 6 : From Canyon del Colca to Puno (6.5h driving)
Day 6 : From Canyon del Colca to Puno (6.5h driving)

When we talk about Peru, we immediately associate it with the Incas, their famous Machu Picchu and the lamas, the iconic animals of Peru. However, many travelers visit Peru to discover also the mystical Lake Titicaca. Today your guide will take you to Puno, considered as the cradle of the Inca civilization and the folkloric capital of Peru but mainly famous for its geographical position on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world (3812 m). On the way, always crossing the Reserva of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, once again you will have an opportunity to enjoy the magnificent landscapes of the Andean Cordillera and its typical fauna. Then you will arrive in Puno where you will have free time to relaxation in your hotel and acclimatization. Overnight in Puno.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 7 : Lake Titicaca and its islands
Day 7 : Lake Titicaca and its islands

By visiting the mythical Lake Titicaca, you will have the opportunity to explore its most picturesque islands: Uros and Taquile and to discover their inhabitants and the local life. At 7:00 AM your guide-driver will take you to the port to take the ''Titicaca Express '' boat for the island of Taquile (duration of the boat trip about 1 hour). You will explore the less touristic part of the island where Peruvian traditions are even less affected by modernity. Then, you will hike on a pre-Inca trail crossing unique landscapes of the island and visiting local families mainly involved in weaving. We will then take the boat back to the peninsula of Capachica, a picturesque destination off the beaten path where you will be welcomed by a small community to learn about their traditions and have a chance to immerse in their daily lives. You can attend the preparation of the "Pachamanca", one of the main dishes of Peruvian cuisine prepared with the traditional method in buried ovens. Later, you will take the boat to go to the floating islands of Uros. The Uros are the descendants of one of the oldest cultures of South America. Finally, you will return to Puno between 16:00 and 17:00 and you will have free time for your leisure. Overnight in Puno.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 8 : From Puno to Sicuani (4h driving)
Day 8 : From Puno to Sicuani (4h driving)

Today, we will take the road to Sicuani, a stopover town between Puno and Cusco. Along the way you will make various interesting visits. Our first stop will be the pre-Inca archaeological site of Sillustani. It is an old necropolis located at an altitude of more than 4000m. The tombs are built as round or square towers and are better known as Chullpas of Sillustani. Was there any special reason to build the tombs in these forms? Your guide will be happy to give you all necessary explanations. Then we will go to the archaeological complex of Pukara, a 3800 year old site from Pukara culture located at the foot of the mountain offering a beautiful view on the valley. We will continue our route crossing the La Raya Pass with its magnificent landscapes before reaching Sicuani. Overnight in Sicuani.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 9 : From Sicuani to Cusco (3h driving)
Day 9 : From Sicuani to Cusco (3h driving)

Cusco, the famous capital of the Incas, has never been so close. Today your private guide will take you there. Along the way you will make a stop in the small town of Andahuaylillas to discover San Pedro church built in the 16th century by the Jesuits. What this church is famous for and why it’s often compared with the Sistine Chapel? Explore it with your guide to get the answers. The last stop before to reach Cusco will be the archeological site of Pikillaqta from Wari culture (pre-Inca civilization). Here you will have the opportunity to learn about the different religious rituals that were practiced from VI to XI centuries. Later, we will reach our final destination, the city of Cusco, located at 3400m above sea level, best known for its important archaeological remains located in the outskirts of the city. In Cusco, there are still original walls dating back to the time of the Incas, on which the Spanish constructions were built. In the late afternoon, you will have free time to walk in the historical center of Cusco, before your guide takes you for a tour the following day. Overnight in Cusco.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 10 : Cusco sightseeing
Day 10 : Cusco sightseeing

Today your guide will make you discover ''the center of the earth'' and will explain you why Cusco was of great importance for the Incas. Start exploring Cusco by visiting the Plaza de Armas with its Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption dating back to the 16th century. Then your guide will take you to visit Coricancha (the ancient Temple of the Sun), which was the most sacred place for the Incas. The temple was completely demolished by the Spanish but there is still the Inca base of the construction on which the convent Santo Domingo was built in the 17th century. Walking through the narrow streets of Cusco, you can also admire pretty colonial houses with carved wooden balconies and of course pass by the famous Hatun Rumiyoc street known in particular for its perfectly preserved Inca foundations and the extraordinary stone with 12 angles. Being located in a seismic zone, the buildings of that time were designed to ensure a better stability. After lunch, you will discover the four archeological sites of Cusco which illustrates perfectly the cults, the traditions, the rituals as well as the architectural genius of the Incas. You will start by visiting Tambomachay, devoted to the water cult. The site consists of a series of aqueducts, canals and various cascades of water that flow along the rocks. From the main waterfall, the Incas made two cascades of exactly the same size: if we put two identical bottles, they would be filled simultaneously. Here, at the time of the Incas, there were royal gardens which were irrigated with a complex system of channels specially created for this purpose. The next site will be Puka Pukara, with the ruins of a military fortress from the Inca period. We will then continue to Qenko, another ritual center of the Inca period, where sacrifices and mummification took place. The last step will be the Sacsayhuaman which always surprises by its construction with its huge blocks of stone ideally superimposed into the natural landscape. Overnight in Cusco.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 11 : Round trip by luxury train to Machu Picchu
Day 11 : Round trip by luxury train to Machu Picchu

Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas consist the main circle for those who want to immerse themselves in the mystical world of the Incas. Certainly the different archeological remains found in different cities of Peru make prove of the architectural genius of the Incas. However the famous citadel of Machu Picchu still remains the architectural jewel of the Inca Empire. Today you will have the opportunity to discover the mystical Incan citadel of the 15th century, also called “lost city”, located on a rocky promontory, in the Andes. Your journey will be much more pleasant on board of the luxury Hiram Bingham train which is designed for the most demanding visitors and provides all the necessary amenities for a comfortable trip. Once on the spot, your guide will help you to better understand the history and purpose of the construction of Machu Picchu and he will uncover the best-kept secrets of the monument for you. In the evening you will return to Cusco by the same train full of magical emotions. Overnight in Cusco.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 12 : Rainbow Mountain
Day 12 : Rainbow Mountain

One of the most spectacular landscapes will be offered to you today. You will make a hiking to discover the famous Rainbow Mountain, situated in the Andes of Peru which creates a landscape of 7 stunning colors. The mountain has been discovered only in 2015, which makes it a relatively less explored destination. The hiking time will be around 2 hours for the round trip. On the way you can see South American camelids like llamas, guanacos and alpacas. Once you are on the spot, you will admire the truly unique landscapes of this multicolored mountains whose colors are completely of native origin. Later, you will return to Cusco where you can relax in your hotel. Overnight in Cusco.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 13 : From Cusco to Sacred Valley (2h driving)
Day 13 : From Cusco to Sacred Valley (2h driving)

The Sacred Valley of the Incas will offer you another opportunity to learn more about the Inca’s history and their lifestyle. The Urubamba Valley was sacred for the Incas, because everything grows there! Up today the Sacred Valley is valued for its geographic and climatic characteristics. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is well known for its impressive Inca ruins, amazing landscapes, charming small villages and especially for its vast agricultural terraces, used until today. Your guide will explain you everything about the amazing features of these terraces and their irrigation system. Ollantaytambo is one of towns in the mysterious Sacred Valley of the Incas that you will explore with your guide to discover its typical charm and unique atmosphere, to discover the local lifestyle and meet Peruvians walking their lama. Here you will explore also the ruins of Ollantaytambo fortress with its famous wall of 6 monoliths, the Temple of the Sun and the baths, gazing out at the spectacular view on the Valley. Overnight in Ollantaytambo.

Meals : Breakfast
Day 14 : From Sacred Valley to Cusco Airport (2h driving)
Day 14 : From Sacred Valley to Cusco Airport (2h driving)

This morning enjoy your breakfast at the hotel before taking the road to Cusco Airport. On the way, you will make a stop at Chinchero, a small charming village whose inhabitants still wear their colorful traditional clothes. With these colorful notes you will conclude your tour and you will arrive to Cusco Airport for departure flight.

Meals : Breakfast

Hotels during this exclusive luxury trip to Peru

 

Belmond Miraflores Park, Lima - 5*
Luxury tour Peru Lima   Luxury tour Peru Lima
   
  Luxury tour Peru Lima
   
  Luxury tour Peru Lima
   
  Luxury tour Peru Lima

 

Why we chose it?


Incarnation of urban elegance beside the city's cultural gems

Rooftop pool with ocean view

Amazonian-inspired wellness

Exquisitely decorated interior bearing native accents of Peru 

 

Overview

The hotel Miraflores is a luxury accommodation set in the heart of the verdant Miraflores Park, Lima’s most fashionable areas, with panoramic ocean views. Enjoy the nourishing therapies of the local Spa or just relax in your spacious marble bathroom with bathtub and separate shower. Don’t miss the opportunity to have your dinner in the stylish, framed by impeccable gardens restaurant of the hotel, and make a complete immersion in the South America’s culinary capital.

 


 

CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux, Arequipa - 5*
Luxury tour Peru Arequipa   Luxury tour Peru Arequipa
   
  Luxury tour Peru Arequipa
   
  Luxury tour Peru Arequipa
   
  Luxury tour Peru Arequipa

 

Why we chose it?


Amazing experience in a 16th century colonial period hotel

Located in the historic center of Arequipa

Tailor-made organic amenities  

 

Overview

Your stay in Cirqa hotel will give you the opportunity to travel back in time to 16th century, the period when Arequipa was built and to live an unforgettable experience in a colonial house. The powerful walls, arches and columns of the hotel are all made of volcanic rocks. Its astounding architectural interior with current contemporary nuances is a perfect bland of modern and traditional touches.

 


 

Belmond Las Casitas, Canyon del Colca - 5*
Luxury tour Peru Canyon del Colca   Luxury tour Peru Canyon del Colca
   
  Luxury tour Peru Canyon del Colca
   
  Luxury tour Peru Canyon del Colca
   
  Luxury tour Peru Canyon del Colca

 

Why we chose it?


Surrounded by the serenity of the mesmerizing Colca Valley

Experience the traditional beauty of Peru

Bland of traditional and modern luxury touches in the awe-inspiring natural environment

Individual ‘’casitas’’ with a private terrace and hot tub

 

Overview

Discover the hidden gem of the Andes by spending an overnight in las casitas of breathtaking Colca Valley. Relax in your individual casita with a private terrace and hot tub or enjoy the treatments of the local wellness Spa rich in indigenous organic plants and flowers that soothe your body and mind. Another memorable experience for you could be the Alpaca feeding, these emblematic animals, which are walking near the casitas.

 


 

Titilaka - Relais & Châteaux, Puno - 5*
Luxury tour Peru Puno   Luxury tour Peru Puno
   
  Luxury tour Peru Puno
   
  Luxury tour Peru Puno
   
  Luxury tour Peru Puno

 

Why we chose it?


Located on a private peninsula right in front of Titikaka Lake

An ideal location to meet the local indigenous Aymara community

Only lake-facing rooms with magnificent views

 

Overview

Spend your overnight in Titilaka hotel located right in front of Titikaka Lake and enjoy each morning the magnificent sunrise on lake at 4000 meter above the sea level. Each room of the hotel is equipped with a full bathroom and contemporary furnishings decorated by local textiles and fresh flowers.

 


 

Wilkamayu hotel, Sicuani - 3*
Luxury tour Peru Sicuani   Luxury tour Peru Sicuani
   
  Luxury tour Peru Sicuani
   
  Luxury tour Peru Sicuani
   
  Luxury tour Peru Sicuani

 

Why we chose it?


Strategically located in the tourist corridor Cusco - Puno or Cusco - Arequipa

Charming central courtyard with colonial-style galleries

Warm and homely atmosphere 

 

Overview

The hotel Wilkamayu is the ideal accommodation to make a stopover between Cusco and Arequipa or Puno and Cusco. Even it’s not a luxury accommodation, it offers first rate quality services to its guests and does its best to ensure a pleasant and relaxing experience to its visitors complying their highest expectations. The charming garden decorated with antiques and artworks from Cusco will ensure your peaceful evening at the hotel.

 


 

Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Cusco - 5*
Luxury tour Peru Cusco   Luxury tour Peru Cusco
   
  Luxury tour Peru Cusco
   
  Luxury tour Peru Cusco
   
  Luxury tour Peru Cusco

 

Why we chose it?


Built on Inca foundations

Decorated with colonial period frescoes

Specialty dishes prepared by leading Peruvian chefs

Inspired Andean wellness 

 

Overview

This former convent built on the Inca foundations, dating back to 17th century will take you back in time and you will live an amazing experience in your artistic room where the Inca stonework meets the Spanish colonial architecture and where the modern comfort meets the old-world charm. Relax at open-air heated pool, enjoying the colorful dishes at the local Senzo Bar. Don’t miss the unique Spa treatments that offers the local Hypnoze Spa, inspired by Inca and Andean culture.

 


 

Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado, Ollantaytambo - 5*

 

Luxury tour Peru Ollantaytambo   Luxury tour Peru Ollantaytambo
   
  Luxury tour Peru Ollantaytambo
   
  Luxury tour Peru Ollantaytambo
   
  Luxury tour Peru Ollantaytambo

 

Why we chose it?


Cozy environment in the middle of the Sacred Valley

Chalet-style luxury retreat with Andes views

Local planetarium to observe the stars and planets

 

Overview

The overnight in Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado will give you the possibility to relax in the cozy environment of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You will travel back in time and you will feel how the aristocratic families of Cusco were living at that time. Here, you will also have the possibility to see how the locals prepare the famous Peruvian ‘’pachamanca’’ in the earthen oven.

 


 

 

Your tour includes:

- All private transfers with air conditioned high end SUV with all applicable transport taxes
- Dedicated English speaking guide-driver and his living expenses
- All luxury accommodations with full breakfast daily
- Internal flight from Lima to Arequipa
- Internal flight from Cusco to Lima
- All entrance fees as per described itinerary
- Luxury train (Hiram Bingham) for a round trip to Machu Picchu
- Gastronomic lunch and dinner on board of Hiram Bingham train
- Bus for a round trip to Machu Picchu entrance
- Courtesy of fresh bottled water at all times in the car
- Car and passenger insurance
- All parking fees

 

Your tour does not include:

- Meals and drinks (except as specified above)
- Personal expenses (tips, telephone calls etc...)
- International airfare

 

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