Peru Explorer

Welcome to Lima! Upon arrival at Jorge Chavez International Airport, you will be met by your private driver and driven approximately 30 minutes to your accommodation in Lima. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. 

Enjoy your first day in Lima with a comprehensive tour of the city, exploring its dual character—modern in the districts of Miraflores and San Isidro, and historic in its UNESCO-listed Historic Center. Start with a visit to the Main Square, surrounded by the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Discover the city's rich history at the Convent of Santo Domingo, home to the relics of three Peruvian saints. Continue to the Larco Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, including exquisite jewelry, textiles, and the unique "erotic room" ceramics. Throughout the tour, you'll see how Lima's old and new coexist in landmarks such as the Museum of Italian Art, Palace of Justice, and Plaza San Martín. (B) 

In the morning, transfer from your hotel in Lima to the airport for your flight to Arequipa. Upon arrival, you'll be assisted at the Arequipa airport and taken to your hotel. Begin your Arequipa city tour with visits to the Santa Catalina Monastery and the Church of the Company of Jesus. Explore the heart of Arequipa, enjoying views from the Yanahuara and Carmen Alto viewpoints, which offer stunning landscapes of the city and its surrounding volcanoes—Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. Visit the historic center and Main Square, featuring the city's iconic ashlar buildings and the impressive Cathedral. Walk through the streets reflecting colonial history, such as San Francisco and Santo Domingo, before concluding at the Monastery of Santa Catalina, known for its colorful corridors, internal plazas, and beautiful Cusco School canvases. (B) 

Today get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Colca. After checking out of your hotel, travel through the town of Yura and across the Aguada Blanca and Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve, making a stop in Patapampa to refresh. Continue to the town of Chivay, where we'll enjoy a delicious lunch. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. Feel free to enjoy the hotel facilities or take an optional visit to La Calera hot springs. In the evening, enjoy a lovely dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D) 

After checking out of your hotel, head to the Cruz del Condor, the best spot to admire the Colca Canyon and, weather permitting, witness the majestic flight of the condors. Then, begin your journey out of the Colca Valley, visiting the picturesque villages of Pinchollo, Maca, and Chivay. Enjoy lunch along the way as you travel en route to Puno. (B, BL) 

In the morning, travel to Taquile Island in Lake Titicaca, where the community warmly welcomes tourists, preserving their traditions, customs, and colorful, old-fashioned clothing. The islanders are skilled artisans who use techniques developed over centuries by their ancestors. Then, visit the floating islands of the Uros, also known as the Town of the Lake. These islands, built with layers of totora reeds, serve as homes and trading centers for the Uros people, who navigate the lake on hand-built rafts. (B, L) 

Check out of your hotel and head to the station to begin your bus journey to Cusco, taking in the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Valley. Your first stop will be La Raya, the highest point on the road between Cusco and Puno, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Next, visit the ruins of Racchi, also known as the Temple of God Wiracocha. The final stop is Andahuaylillas, home to a stunning 17th-century church with an impressive organ decorated with angels and cherubs. Afterward, continue to Cusco, where the rest of the day is at your leisure. (B, L) 

Enjoy the morning at your leisure and in the afternoon, embark on a half-day city tour, visiting the San Pedro market, Korikancha Temple, the Cathedral, Sacsayhuamán, and Kenko. Discover how Andean and Spanish cultures harmoniously coexist in Cusco. Explore the bustling San Pedro market, the Korikancha Temple's Inca and colonial fusion, the impressive Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán, the ceremonial site of Kenko, and the Cathedral, which houses a stunning collection of colonial art. (B) 

Today explore the Sacred Valley, visiting Chinchero, Moray, and Ollantaytambo. In Chinchero, discover communities organized under the Inca system of ayllus, and visit the Parwa cultural center to learn about traditional textile processes and vibrant natural dyes. Pass by the Nuestra Señora de Monserrat church and explore the archaeological complex, known for its terraces and aqueducts. At Moray, see the concentric terraces that functioned as an agricultural research center during the Tahuantinsuyo. Enjoy a typical lunch in the valley before heading to Ollantaytambo, an ancient military, religious, and agricultural center with stunning views of the town, which still maintains its original Inca urban design. Wander through its stone streets, visit the market, and soak in the spirit of the Andes. (B, L) 

Embark on an unforgettable journey to one of the world's most iconic landmarks: Machu Picchu! Begin with a scenic train ride on the Inca Rail 360° to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, nestled at the foot of the famous Inca citadel. Pack light, as only small backpacks are allowed. Enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic mountains, the Vilcanota River, and quaint Peruvian Andes towns during the journey. A short bus ride from Aguas Calientes brings us to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Explore the ancient ruins, uncovering the history and mysteries of this mystical site, surrounded by stunning landscapes perfect for photography. After soaking in the magical energy of Machu Picchu, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some free time to explore before boarding the train back. (B, L) 

Spend the day in Aguas Calientes at your leisure, enjoying the charming town or opting for a second visit to Machu Picchu. This allows you to explore the ancient site at your own pace, take stunning photos, and soak in the serene atmosphere. Whether you choose to wander the ruins, relax amidst the breathtaking scenery, or both, the experience will be unforgettable. In the afternoon, board the train back to Cusco, where you will be transferred from the station to your hotel for a restful evening. (B) 

Say farewell to Peru as you check out of your hotel and meet your driver for the transfer to the airport where you will check-in for your onward flight. (B)