Peru: The Land of the Incas

Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient civilizations, and rich cultural heritage of Peru on this unforgettable 14-day journey.

Overview

Peru is one of South America’s most fascinating destinations, blending breathtaking Andean landscapes with the legendary legacy of the Inca civilization. From the colonial streets of Lima and Arequipa to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, this tour takes you through the country’s most iconic sites.

• Discover the Inca wonders of Machu Picchu, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley
• Explore the colossal Colca Canyon, home to the majestic Andean condor
• Visit Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world
• Tour the charming colonial cities of Lima and Arequipa
• Experience the vibrant local culture, bustling markets, and delicious Peruvian cuisine

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Departure

• Depart for an overnight flight to Lima, via São Paulo.

Day 2: Arrival in Lima

• Arrive in Lima and transfer to the four-star Casa Andina Select Miraflores for an overnight stay.
• Guided city tour of Lima, including:
  • The Presidential Palace and the Plaza de Armas, the city’s historic center.
  • The UNESCO-listed colonial district.
  • A visit to Casa Aliaga, a beautifully preserved colonial mansion dating back to the 16th century.

Day 3: Flight to Arequipa

• Early morning flight to Arequipa, Peru’s picturesque “White City”, framed by snow-capped volcanoes.
• Stay for two nights at the four-star Casa Andina Arequipa.
• Free afternoon to relax and acclimatize.

Day 4: Arequipa City Tour

• Guided tour of Arequipa, featuring:
  • Carmen Alto viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic views.
  • The Plaza de Armas, one of Peru’s most beautiful squares.
  • The Jesuit Church of La Compañía, a 17th-century baroque masterpiece.
  • The Monastery of Santa Catalina, a vast and colorful convent dating back to 1580.
• Free afternoon to explore the city’s charming streets and sample the region’s renowned cuisine.

Day 5: Journey to Colca Canyon

• Scenic drive through the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, home to vicunas, llamas, and Andean deer.
• Stop at Pampa de Toccra, where flamingos gather in seasonal lakes.
• Climb to 16,000 feet at Mirador de los Andes for breathtaking volcano views.
• Arrive in Chivay, the gateway to Colca Canyon, and check in at the three-star superior Casa Andina Hotel.

Day 6: Colca Canyon & Drive to Puno

• Visit Condor Cross, where you may spot the majestic Andean condor soaring above the canyon.
• Drive through the Altiplano to Lake Titicaca, stopping for a packed lunch en route.
• Arrive in Puno, where we stay at the three-star superior Posada del Inca Hotel, overlooking the lake.

Day 7: Lake Titicaca

• Board a private motor launch to explore Lake Titicaca, including:
  • The floating Uros Islands, home to the indigenous Uros people.
  • Taquile Island, known for its stunning landscapes and high-quality handwoven textiles.
• Lunch included on Taquile Island.

Day 8: Journey to Cusco

• Travel through the Andean Altiplano towards Cusco, stopping at:
  • La Raya Pass, the highest point at 14,170 feet.
  • The Andahuaylillas Church, often called the Sistine Chapel of the Americas.
• Included lunch en route.
• Arrive in Cusco and check in at the four-star Costa del Sol Ramada Hotel for a two-night stay.

Day 9: Cusco City Tour

• Guided tour of Cusco, South America’s oldest inhabited city, including:
  • The Plaza de Armas, where the last Inca emperor was executed.
  • The Cusco Cathedral, home to 400 paintings, including a unique depiction of the Last Supper with guinea pig as the main course.
  • Qorichancha, the Inca’s Temple of the Sun, once covered in sheets of gold.
  • The Sacsayhuamán Fortress, an enormous Inca citadel built with megalithic stone blocks.

Day 10: Sacred Valley & Pisac

• Explore the Sacred Valley, the Inca empire’s agricultural and spiritual heartland.
• Visit Pisac, famous for its ancient fortress and vibrant Indian market.
• Included lunch in the Sacred Valley.
• Visit Ollantaytambo, an unfinished but impressive Inca fortress.
• Check in at the four-star Casa Andina Sacred Valley Hotel for two nights.

Day 11: Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas

• Take a scenic train ride through the Urubamba River gorge to Machu Picchu.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of modern times.
• Explore the ancient temples, terraces, and hidden pathways of this breathtaking site.

Day 12: Flight to Lima

• Travel back to Cusco Airport for the flight to Lima.
• Check in at the four-star Casa Andina Select Miraflores for the final night.
• Free evening to explore the coastal district of Miraflores.

Day 13: Lima & Return Flight

• Leisurely morning in Lima before transferring to the airport for the return flight.

Day 14: Arrive Home

• Arrive back in the UK after a truly unforgettable journey through Peru.

Accommodation Highlights

Casa Andina Select Miraflores (4-star), Lima

• Located in the modern Miraflores district, close to shops and restaurants.

Casa Andina Arequipa (4-star), Arequipa

• Set in the historic city center, with views of volcanoes and colonial architecture.

Casa Andina Hotel (3-star superior), Colca Canyon

• A cozy mountain lodge-style hotel near the canyon.

Posada del Inca Hotel (3-star superior), Puno

• Overlooks Lake Titicaca, offering stunning sunrise views.

Costa del Sol Ramada Hotel (4-star), Cusco

• A charming colonial-style hotel near the main square.

Casa Andina Sacred Valley Hotel (4-star), Sacred Valley

• A relaxing retreat surrounded by Andean mountains.

Special Offers & Extras

• Optional Andean cooking class in Cusco.
• Small group tours available for a more intimate experience.
• Additional wine and pisco tastings upon request.