Peru offers an unparalleled journey into history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. One of its crown jewels, Machu Picchu, stands as a testament to the ancient Incan civilization, inviting travelers to explore mysterious ruins nestled high in the Andes. Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, enchants visitors with its vibrant blend of colonial and indigenous traditions, cobblestone streets, and lively markets that showcase exquisite crafts and local cuisine.
Beyond these iconic sites, Peru boasts a diverse range of attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests. The Sacred Valley, with its fertile terraces and stunning mountain vistas, provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Lima, the bustling capital, offers a dynamic culinary scene where world-class chefs reinvent traditional recipes, blending local ingredients with modern techniques.
Further south, the desert landscapes of Paracas and the unique formations of the Nazca Lines invite mystery and exploration, while the high-altitude beauty of Lake Titicaca offers serene views and the chance to experience life on floating islands. Each destination in Peru presents its own unique charm, making the country a versatile destination for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural tapestry.
The advantages of visiting Peru are numerous: from the opportunity to experience ancient history firsthand and indulge in exquisite culinary delights, to enjoying some of the most stunning natural landscapes on the planet. Whether wandering through the ruins of Machu Picchu, exploring the cobbled streets of Cusco, or discovering the hidden treasures scattered throughout the country, every moment in Peru is an invitation to explore, learn, and appreciate the beauty of a nation steeped in heritage and natural wonder.
Historical Marvels:
Explore ancient ruins like Machu Picchu, a breathtaking testament to the Incan civilization.
Cultural Richness:
Visit Cusco to experience a unique blend of colonial history and indigenous traditions through vibrant markets and local crafts.
Diverse Landscapes:
Enjoy the varied scenery of Peru, from the lush Sacred Valley and high Andean peaks to the mysterious Nazca Lines and desert landscapes.
Culinary Delights:
Discover Lima’s dynamic food scene where traditional recipes meet innovative culinary techniques.
Unique Destinations:
Experience tranquil moments at Lake Titicaca and explore other hidden treasures across the country, each offering its own distinct charm.
These highlights illustrate why Peru is an exceptional destination for travelers seeking history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty.
Fly to Peru’s capital, and transfer to your hotel. (B)
The mansions and churches of colonial downtown Lima and the modern suburbs of San Isidro, Miraflores, and Monterrico make Lima a study in contrasts. We’ll visit the Larco Herrera Museum, located in an extraordinary viceregal mansion of the 18th century built atop a pre-Columbian pyramid dating back to the 7th century. The museum features a remarkable collection of gold and silver artifacts from Ancient Peru, as well as a famous collection of erotic pottery. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travelers. (B, D)
Travel south by bus to Ica, a small city on the edge of the Pampa Colorada—a verdant oasis and home to Peru’s famous Pisco grape brandy. Just a little further south lie the mysterious Nazca Lines, ancient geoglyphs etched into the earth at least 1,500 years ago. A small plane takes you up for a bird’s-eye view of these enigmatic designs, including figures of a spider, condor, fish, and bird. After your flight, transfer to Hotel Paracas for the night. (B)
Begin the day with a visit to Peru’s largest coastal wildlife sanctuary, including the Ballestas Islands. Sail over to witness a thriving habitat of sea birds—pelicans, boobies, cormorants, terns, and gulls—that coexist with herds of sea lions and seals. In the afternoon, return by road to your hotel in Lima. (B, L)
Experience the legacy of the Inca Empire as you fly to Cuzco, the ancient administrative, military, and sacred center of the Incas and the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas. Upon arrival, transfer to the nearby Sacred Valley. Stop in Pisac to explore its vibrant market—a mosaic of colors, traditions, and people. After lunch, visit the Ollantaytambo Fortress and delve into its storied past, marveling at the narrow streets and canals that have remained unchanged since Inca times. Discover the architectural wonder of enormous stones (some weighing up to 50 tons) that were moved without the use of the wheel. Overnight in the Sacred Valley. (B, L, D)
Begin your two-day exploration of Machu Picchu with a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, traditional Indian villages, and terraced fields as you approach the “Lost City of the Incas”—a mountaintop town carved from stone, complete with temples, houses, and baths, all enveloped by awe-inspiring scenery. Descend to the village of Aguas Calientes in the Cloud Forest, where you may observe some of the 300 local species, including multicolored lancers, the Inca wren, and the Torrent Duck. An overnight stay at the base of Machu Picchu offers a second, more relaxed day for independent exploration when most tourists have departed. Return to Cuzco on the evening of Day 7. (2B, 2L)
Discover the historic city of Cuzco by visiting its beautiful cathedral, main plaza, and the Temple of the Sun with its impressive Inca walls—massive stones fitted together without mortar. Later, stop at the hilltop fortress of Sacsayhuaman for expansive views of the valley, then continue to explore the ruins of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, and Tambomachay. In the evening, enjoy a folklore show and dinner. (B, D)
Journey to Puno, located at a breathtaking 12,400 feet above sea level, where the surrounding countryside and Lake Titicaca—the world’s highest navigable lake—serve as the cradle of the Aymara civilization and the legendary birthplace of the Inca founders. Along the way, visit the Raqchi Temple, the charming town of Andahuaylillas, and Piquillacta with its pre-Inca Huari adobe walls. (B, L, D)
Spend the day on Lake Titicaca with a boat excursion to the remarkable floating islands, constructed on layers of totora reeds and home to traditional Uros communities. Next, visit Taquile Island, where locals speak Quechua—the language of the Incas—and produce traditional textiles using centuries-old techniques. Return to Puno for a free evening. (B, L)
On the way to the airport, stop near Puno at Sillustani to see the famous chullpas (burial towers), once used as tombs for high-ranking Aymara lords. Upon arrival in Lima, enjoy some time at your hotel to freshen up before a farewell dinner at one of Lima’s premier restaurants. (B, D)
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