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.
Late this evening board your flight for Lima.
Arrive in Lima, Peru where your room has been held for immediate occupancy. Later re-group for a welcome reception and lunch at a local seaside restaurant, before you begin learning about the history and culture of Peru. Lima, the main gateway into Peru, has long been considered the colonial capital of South America. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish, Lima was called “the City of Kings” by the Spanish conquistadors. On your tour this afternoon, see the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and the modern garden suburb districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. Visit the Larco Herrera Museum, which highlights the artistic achievements of Peruvian ancient cultures.
Board a flight bound for the oldest inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere, Cuzco. Drive into the Sacred Valley to pay a visit to the megalithic stone ruins of Ollantaytambo, where Manco Inca confronted Hernando Pizarro. At Awanacancha cooperative, learn about the art and tradition of Peruvian textiles. Have lunch in the serene garden setting at Hacienda Wayokari, as guests of the family. Browse their impressive collection of colonial art and Inca pottery. Folklore entertainment accompanies dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Travel to Pisac to see the ruins of a citadel, once accessed by a vital Inca road that snaked its way up the canyon that enters the Urubamba Valley. This ancient citadel once controlled a route that connected the Inca Empire with Paucartambo. The stonework and panoramas from here are magnificent. Visit the market for a taste of colorful local life. Then visit the studio of Cuzco’s famous ceramists, Pablo and Marilu Seminario, who have been studying, recreating and re-inventing pre-Columbian ceramics traditions for over a quarter of a century. The afternoon is free for your own pursuits. Try horseback riding, have a spa treatment or simply stroll the lovely gardens of your charming resort, Sol Y Luna Hotel.
This morning travel aboard the Vistadome train to the archeological wonder of Machu Picchu, which was built at the end of the 4th century. Machu Picchu was obviously a highly-planned and carefully built city, made up of two clearly different sectors, one agricultural and one urban. With mountains towering to one side, and a white-water river roaring far below, this solemn fortress is a fascinating remnant of a once-bustling city that was mysteriously abandoned after the middle of the 6th century. Secreted amidst dense jungle vegetation and steep hills, Machu Picchu remained undiscovered by the modern world until 1911. This once-hidden, enigmatic city presents modern archaeologists and philosophers with an array of mysteries. And the architecture continues to inspire awe. The giant walls, terraces and ramps seem as if they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments and they fit perfectly into the incline of the land. Learn the many legends and strange truths of these ancient ruins from your local guide. Your retreat for the night, set amid 12 acres of cloud forest, is the Andean-style Machu Picchu Pueblo Resort.
Explore the gardens of your hotel complex this morning. It is home to the world’s largest collection of native orchids and is a refuge for native birds and butterflies. In the afternoon, journey to Cuzco aboard the Vistadome. Sip a cup of tea and enjoy panoramic views as the beautiful greenery of the Urubamba Valley rolls by. Visit the MAP Museum this evening and dine in its intimate restaurant. Stay overnight in an elegant, historic and exquisitely restored, former monastery.
Enjoy an unscheduled morning. This afternoon, take a guided city tour of Cuzco and several ruins including Kenco, Tambomachay, and the Sacsayhuaman fortress, which was built from 100-ton granite blocks that were laid with such perfection that no mortar was needed.
Fly back to Lima this morning. Have some free time before your farewell lunch at the extraordinary Huaca Pucllana, a superb restaurant in a unique setting within the compound of a 1,500 year-old adobe pyramid excavation. A local archeologist will fill you in on the details and enlighten you on the exciting future of digs in Peru. The remainder of your afternoon and evening is free. Perhaps a stroll through the Indian handicraft market is in order for those last minute souvenirs.
Transfer on your own to the airport for your return home, or extend your vacation by flying to Quito for the Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands cruise adventure. ¡Muchas gracias!
At Peru Expediciones, we are passionate about showcasing Arequipa’s natural beauty through responsible tourism. We offer personalized tours—from scenic hikes to classic adventures—designed to match your unique preferences.