Handpicked Peru

Arrive in Lima and transfer to your hotel. 

Explore the charming colonial centre of Lima and see Plaza Mayor, City Hall and the cathedral. Discover one of the oldest and most traditional bars in Lima, Cordano. Immerse yourself in the history of this country with a visit to the Larco Herrera Museum. Lima has become the gastronomic capital of South America, where you can taste some of the most exquisite Peruvian cuisine. Finish your day enjoying some of the best Peruvian gastronomy at the museum’s enchanting restaurant. (B)(D)

Journey to Pisco for a remarkable experience; a flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines. Observe several figures of stylised plants and animals drawn in an enormous labyrinth of straight lines, trapezoids, triangles, and spirals. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before you are transferred to Ica for your overnight coach journey to Arequipa. (B)(L)

This morning you will arrive in Arequipa. Your afternoon sightseeing excursion will take you through the many cobble stone streets of Arequipa and its fine Spanish buildings, including the Santa Catalina Monastery. The monastery is one of the most beautiful buildings in Arequipa and features cloisters, charming streets and small plazas that haven’t changed in over 500 years. During your visit, learn what life is like for the select group of nuns that live there. (B)

Depart early through the Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Arrive in Chivay where you will taste some of the local cuisine. (B)(L)(D)

Journey by road passing magnificent volcanoes, Indian villages and ancient Inca terraces until reaching the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Without doubt this site offers the most impressive views of the Colca Canyon and the majestic condor in full flight. (B)(L)

Today fly to Cuzco. Your afternoon begins with a unique and exclusive visit to San Pedro local market, where you will find diverse local products. Embark on a journey through history visiting the Koricancha or Temple of the Sun. Continue to the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the underground cave and temple of Qenko and Tambomachay, known as the Baths of the Inca. Your final stop will be a traditional cafe known and visited by the locals, where you will taste some local pastries. (B)

Today embark on a scenic journey to the Urubamba Valley, the “Sacred Valley of the Incas”. Visit the colourful Pisac market, where the local Indians meet to sell their wares as they have done for centuries. Continue to the town of Ollantaytambo and climb up the imposing Inca fortress for some spectacular views of the valley. This evening at your hotel, take part in a cooking demonstration to learn how to make local dishes. (B)(L)

Embark on a train journey through spectacular mountain scenery to the magnificent Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, and enjoy a guided visit of the citadel exploring every corner of this New Wonder of the World. Mystical energies pulsate under your feet as you climb to the top and admire the Intihuatana or visit the Temple of the Sun, the Palace of the Inca, and its agricultural and urban sectors. (B)(L)(D)

This morning is at leisure to explore this extraordinary place on your own or if you are truly intrepid, dare to climb to the top of Mount Huayna Picchu, a symbol of Machu Picchu and the tallest mountain behind the archaeological site. The pathway leading to its summit offers the fabulous reward of a spectacular view of the stone city. This afternoon board the train for your journey back to Cuzco. (B)

Travel by road across the Altiplano to Puno. On the way you will visit Andahuaylillas before continuing to Racchi ruins, known as “The Temple of God Wiracocha”. Your last stop will be La Raya, the highest point on the road between Cuzco and Puno, from where there will be excellent photo opportunities. (B)(L)

Enjoy a catamaran cruise on Lake Titicaca visiting the man-made floating reed islands of the Uros Indians. Meet these resilient islanders, descendants of the first Altiplano inhabitants who still live on totora reed platforms. Explore Taquile Island where the islanders still live according to the traditions and beliefs of their ancestors and are world renowned for their lovely outfits and extraordinary textiles. (B)(L)

Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport. (B)