We Love —
- Visiting ancient Incan ruins, thriving modern cities and areas of astonishing natural beauty on this Peruvian tour.
- Watching condors glide over one of the world’s deepest canyons in Colca Valley and seeing the impressive Machu Picchu.
- Extending our escape by opting for the Amazon extension and discovering all the secrets that this fascinating region holds.
Customer reviews —
Embark on a journey through the treasures of southern Peru, beginning with the vibrant capital, Lima, renowned for its exceptional street food. Continue to Arequipa and the breathtaking Colca Canyon, before heading to Puno to explore the fascinating Uros Floating Islands. Next, Cusco, where you’ll experience the highlight of this unforgettable itinerary: the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
A first glimpse of your holiday —
Your itinerary in brief —
Start your Peruvian adventure in Lima, exploring palaces, museums, and the cathedral. Continue onwards to Arequipa, a charming city surrounded by volcanoes. Traverse the Andes, visit the Uros floating islands, and capture llama-filled highland landscapes, including archaeological sites like Pukara and Incan temples.
Discover Cusco with a local guide, explore ancestral villages and historic sites in the Sacred Valley. Finally, don't miss the grand finale: a visit to Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring Incan citadel and a New Wonder of the World.
Choose the length of your stay:
11 night tour:
- Day 1: Arrive in Lima
- Day 2: Lima - Arequipa
- Day 3: Arequipa
- Day 4: Arequipa - Colca Valley
- Day 5: Colca Valley - Puno
- Day 6: Puno
- Day 7: Puno - Cusco
- Day 8: Cusco
- Day 9: Cusco - Sacred Valley - Aguas Calientes
- Day 10: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
- Day 11: Cusco
- Day 12: Departure from Cusco
13 night tour:
By opting for a 13-night tour, you'll spend two nights in Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the southern Amazon jungle, and the rest of the itinerary is identical to the 11 night tour.
Please note (13 night tours only): Our local partner may arrange the Amazon visit before the main tour, depending on airline schedules and the timing of your international flights. If this change is necessary, you will be notified in advance.
Experience authenticity... If you crave far-flung destinations, untouched beauty, and soul-enriching cultural immersion, this exceptional expedition promises a truly authentic experience. In certain regions, accommodation is refreshingly no-frills, offering you the opportunity to embrace the culture of each destination. Our unwavering dedication to excellence means that each location has been meticulously selected, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Your itinerary in detail —
Days 1 & 2
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN LIMA
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Lima, where the Pacific Ocean meets the urban bustle in a city boasting a rich cultural tapestry. Explore the historic district of Barranco, indulge in exquisite Peruvian cuisine and visit the Larco Museum, as Lima invites you to discover its unique blend of colonial history, contemporary art, and coastal charm
- Night in Lima
DAY 2 : LIMA – AREQUIPA
Enjoy some free time to explore Lima. In the morning, you can opt for the Lima City Tour, the half-day tour in Barranco Park discovering Lima's street food, or the alf-day tour through the boardwalk of Barranco and Miraflores and gastronomic experience (at an extra cost).
- Breakfast included
- Night in Arequipa
Days 3 & 4
DAY 3: AREQUIPA
Set out on a captivating journey through Arequipa, beginning with a visit to Carmen Alto viewpoint, where the Chili River winds beneath the Misti and Chanchani volcanoes, creating a striking natural panorama. From there, Yanahuara’s viewpoint offers a fascinating urban contrast, revealing the city’s distinctive constructions of white volcanic stone. Wander through the Plaza de Armas, the vibrant heart of the city, before stepping into the Convent of Santa Catalina, a labyrinth of plazas, cloisters, and quiet streets that echo centuries of history.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Arequipa
Please note: when visiting churches, pants, long shorts, or skirts that cover the knees are required for entry.
DAY 4: AREQUIPA - COLCA VALLEY
Begin your journey through the Colca Valley, where morning light warms the plains of Yura and the air is crisp with Andean altitude. Cross the Pampas Cañahuas Reserve, home to graceful vicuñas grazing amid golden grasslands, then traverse Pampas de Viscachani and Toccra, skirting the Chucura volcano. Pause at the Patapampa viewpoint to drink in sweeping peaks and valleys, before descending to Chivay for a leisurely lunch before transfering to your hotel to enjoy a tranquil afternoon in the heart of the valley.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
- Night in Arequipa
Days 5 to 7
DAY 5: COLCA VALLEY - PUNO
Begin the day at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, marveling at condors gliding above the vast canyon. Descend to explore charming villages along the Colca River, including Pinchollo, Maca, Achoma, and Yanque, before pausing at Antahuilque and Choquetico viewpoints for sweeping valley vistas. On the return to Chivay, detour through Patahuasi, crossing high plains dotted with unique rock formations and serene lagoons, before arriving in Puno for your hotel transfer in the early evening.
- Breakfast and lunch included
- Night in Puno
DAY 6: PUNO
Travel to Puno’s port to board a boat bound for the enchanting Uros Islands. Drift across Lake Titicaca to discover this ancient community, where homes and islands are woven from golden Totora reeds, rising gently from the shimmering waters. After approximately an hour and a half, return by boat to your hotel, carrying the quiet magic of this floating world with you.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Puno
DAY 7: PUNO - CUSCO
Board the shared bus from Puno to Cusco (for a 6-hour journey). Travel through the jaw-dropping landscapes of the highland plateau, dotted by Andean hamlets and herds of grazing llamas and vicuñas. Stop en route at the archaeological site of Pucará, which dates from 200 BC to 300 AD. Admire the ruins of an Inca temple in Raqchi, built to worship the important Incan god Wiracocha. There'll be one more stop before Cusco at Andahuaylillas, a picturesque town famed for the beautiful 16th century Church of St Peter the Apostle, known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of South America’.
- Breakfast and lunch included
- Night in Cusco
Days 8 & 9
DAY 8: CUSCO
Begin your walking tour at Coricancha, one of the most sacred temples of the Inca Empire, where ancient stonework whispers history. Continue to Cusco Cathedral, marveling at its imposing architecture and rich collection of colonial art. Finally, wander through the bustling San Pedro Market, alive with vibrant colours, scents of fresh produce, and the charm of local handicrafts, before returning to your hotel.
Alternatively, you may replace the visit to San Pedro Market with Casa Concha, a colonial-era house showcasing a remarkable collection of Inca artifacts from Machu Picchu.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Cusco
DAY 9: CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY – AGUAS CALIENTES
Embark on a journey through Peru's Sacred Valley, a breathtaking region nestled in the Andes that once served as the heart of the Inca Empire. Explore ancient ruins such as Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Wander through vibrant markets and marvel at the agricultural terraces that dot the landscape. Discover the undeniable mystical charm of Peru's Sacred Valley, its captivating history and stunning landscapes that set the stage for the iconic journey to Machu Picchu.
- Breakfast and lunch included
- Night in Aguas Calientes
Days 10 to 12
DAY 10: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
Aguas Calientes, perched on the slopes below Machu Picchu, delights with its craft market, restaurants, and charming lodgings. A 25-minute bus ride brings you to Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring citadel once a sanctuary for Inca Pachacutec, where architectural mastery meets breathtaking natural beauty. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at Café Inkaterra, then take the train to Ollantaytambo before continuing back to Cusco.
- Breakfast and lunch included
- Night in Cusco
DAY 11: CUSCO
Enjoy free time to explore Cusco.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Cusco
DAY 12: DEPART CUSCO
After a tasty breakfast, take your private transfer from your hotel to the airport.
- Breakfast included
2 NIGHT EXTENSION IN THE AMAZON
DAY 12: CUSCO - PUERTO MALDONADO
Begin your Amazon adventure in Puerto Maldonado, the Capital of Biodiversity, where the air hums with life. After a 25-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, arrive at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción Lodge and settle into your wooden cabin amid the sounds of the forest. After a fresh buffet lunch, wander the Concepción trails, alive with the scent of earth and the flutter of wings. As dusk deepens, drift along the river beneath a canopy of stars, watching caimans glide through moonlit waters, before dining on Amazon-inspired flavours in the soft glow of evening.
- Lunch and dinner included
- Night at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion Lodge
DAY 13: PUERTO MALDONADO
Begin the day with a buffet breakfast from 5:30 am before venturing to the shimmering Sandoval Lake in Tambopata National Reserve. Glide through tranquil canals in a carved wooden canoe, spotting giant otters, vibrant macaws, howler monkeys, and turtles amidst the lush jungle. Return to Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción for a refreshing lunch, then ascend the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway for treetop views, climbing 38 meters high to seek toucans and the elusive three-toed sloth. As night falls, choose a moonlit Hidden Jungle excursion or a soothing treatment at the Nua Spa, before enjoying an exquisite a la carte dinner to end the day.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
- Night at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion Lodge
DAY 14: PUERTO MALDONADO - LIMA
Wake to the enchanting sounds of the jungle on your final morning. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Casa Grande and prepare your luggage for check-out at 10:00 am. Depending on your flight time, lunch can be arranged at an additional cost. Then, board a wooden canoe for a gentle 25-minute ride upriver to the airport, soaking in the serene forest scenery one last time.
- Included breakfast
Please note (13 night tours only):
- Our local partner may arrange the Amazon visit before the main tour, depending on airline schedules and the timing of your international flights. If this change is necessary, you will be notified in advance.
- For guests taking the Amazon extension, the Cusco → Puerto Maldonado flight replaces Lima → Puerto Maldonado. The Puerto Maldonado → Lima flight is included in the extension rate. All domestic flights are included.
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change. Please note: There is no departure prior to 6 pm on the way out, for the 13 night offer.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
Throughout your tour, you'll stay in the following 4* hotels or similar, depending on your chosen offer:
Your hotels:
- Lima: Arawi Prime - Superior Room
- Arequipa: Casa Andina Select - Superior Room
- Colca: Colca Lodge - Standard Room
- Puno: Posada del Inca Puno - Standard Room
- Cusco: Sonesta Cusco - Standard Room
- Aguas Calientes: El Mapi - Superior Deluxe Room
- Puerto Maldonado (13 night tour): Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion - Cabin
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
Throughout your tour, you will enjoy board as per the itinerary: -Breakfast included days 2, 3, 6, 8, 11 & 12 -Half board included (breakfast & lunch, excluding drinks) days 5, 7, 9 & 10 -Full board included (excluding drinks) day 4
Included extras —
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.
Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.
Optional excursions —
Excursion to Laguna Humantay - 2 people
Explore the spectacular scenery and rich culture of the Andes on a 12-hour guided excursion to Laguna Humantay. Enjoy an unforgettable trek from Cusco, including lunch by the lagoon and breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains, before returning to Cusco in the evening.
Excursion to Vinicunca: the Mountain of Seven Colours - 2 people
Explore Vinicunca, the mountain of 7 colours, on a private full-day excursion with an early start, panoramic hike and lunch included, before returning to Cusco in the evening.
Excursion to Palcoyo: the Mountain of Seven Colours - 2 people
Set off on an unforgettable adventure with this 10-hour excursion to the colourful Palcoyo mountain, where you can admire the magnificent hues created by minerals accumulated over millions of years, while enjoying the tranquillity of the place.
Excursion to Balcon del Diablo - 2 people
Discover the magic of ancient Inca civilisations on an 8-hour private guided tour to Balcón del Diablo, where nature blends harmoniously with Inca architecture, offering an immersive experience combining history, culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Your journey to Peru —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Lima
Welcome to Peru
Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, is a city of contrasts, where colonial façades meet modern high-rises, and the scent of sizzling anticuchos drifts through grand plazas. Perched on dramatic cliffs above the Pacific, Lima is a place where history hums in the background, from pre-Incan pyramids to baroque churches. With a coastline kissed by the misty garúa and a culinary scene that steals the global spotlight, Lima is the gateway to Peru’s wonders.
Don’t miss:
- Plaza Mayor – The heart of Lima’s colonial past, framed by the ornate Government Palace and cathedral.
- Barranco – The city’s bohemian soul, where colourful murals, indie cafés, and the famed Puente de los Suspiros create an air of romance.
- Museo Larco – A treasure trove of pre-Columbian art, set in a stunning 18th-century mansion.
- Huaca Pucllana – An ancient adobe pyramid nestled in Miraflores, offering a glimpse into Lima’s pre-Hispanic roots.
- El Malecón – A clifftop promenade perfect for paragliding or simply soaking up Pacific Ocean views.
Culinary culture
Lima is a feast for the senses, whether dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or a family-run huarique, Lima’s food scene is pure alchemy. Dive into a plate of ceviche, the city’s signature dish, best paired with a tangy leche de tigre. Savour lomo saltado, a fiery fusion of Chinese and Peruvian flavours, or indulge in picarones, golden-fried dough drizzled with syrup.
Dive deeper
Beyond its grand boulevards, Lima hides lesser-known gems. Discover the eerie Catacombs of San Francisco, where thousands of skulls and bones rest in hauntingly symmetrical patterns. Visit the Magic Water Circuit, an unexpected spectacle of choreographed fountains in the heart of the city. Or explore Pueblo Libre, a neighbourhood steeped in history, home to charming colonial houses and hidden peñas where Afro-Peruvian rhythms pulse late into the night.
Good to know
Lima’s climate is mild year-round, though the coastal mist is most persistent from June to October. The local currency is the Peruvian sol, and while taxis are abundant, app-based rides are the safest bet.
Cusco
High in the Andes, where cobbled streets wind past Inca walls and colonial churches, Cusco is a city that feels like a doorway to another world. Once the heart of the Inca Empire, it now thrums with the energy of travellers drawn to its blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and dramatic landscapes. Whether you're here to acclimatise before trekking to Machu Picchu or simply to soak in the city's timeless charm, Cusco is nothing short of enchanting.
Don’t miss
- Plaza de Armas – The beating heart of Cusco, framed by grand cathedrals and lively cafés.
- Sacsayhuamán – These colossal Inca ruins offer sweeping views over the city.
- San Pedro Market – A kaleidoscope of colours, scents, and flavours – from tropical fruits to herbal elixirs.
- Qorikancha – Once the richest temple in the Inca Empire, its golden walls are long gone, but its majesty remains.
- San Blas – A bohemian quarter filled with artisan workshops, hidden courtyards, and atmospheric bars.
Culinary culture
Peruvian cuisine is having a moment, and Cusco is a perfect place to taste why. Try alpaca steak, trout ceviche, or a warming bowl of chupe de quinoa. Sample street snacks like choclo con queso (giant Andean corn with fresh cheese) or sip a pisco sour in a candlelit colonial courtyard. For the bold, cuy al horno (roast guinea pig) is a true local delicacy.
Dive deeper
Beyond the postcard sights, Cusco’s traditions run deep. Time your visit with Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, when Inca rituals take over the city. Seek out a curandero (shaman) for a spiritual coca leaf reading, or visit a textile cooperative in Chinchero to see ancient weaving techniques in action.
Good to know
At 3,400m above sea level, altitude sickness is real – take it slow and drink mate de coca (coca tea) to acclimatise. The best time to visit is the dry season (May–September) when the skies are crisp and blue.