Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, where our representative will give you a warm welcome to the land of the Incas. Private transfer to your selected hotel in the exclusive districts of Miraflores or Barranco, located along the Pacific Ocean. Lima, the former “City of Kings” and current Peruvian capital, is home to more than ten million inhabitants and represents the perfect meeting point between historical tradition and Latin American culinary innovation. Rest at your hotel to recover from your journey and prepare for the adventure that will begin the next day.

Day 2: Lima City Tour

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive tour of Peru’s capital city. Begin with a visit to the Historic Center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the impressive Plaza Mayor surrounded by the Cathedral, Government Palace, and Archbishop’s Palace. Continue to the San Francisco Convent, renowned for its colonial architecture, beautiful cloisters, and extensive catacombs. Afterward, visit the upscale district of San Isidro with its olive grove park, and finish in the bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, known for its colorful mansions, art galleries, and vibrant cultural scene. In the afternoon, visit the Larco Museum, housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion, which offers a fascinating overview of 5,000 years of Peruvian pre-Columbian history through its outstanding collection of archaeological artifacts. Evening at leisure to enjoy Lima’s world-renowned culinary scene, with optional recommendations for dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants (not included).

Day 3: Lima / Flight to Arequipa / Acclimatization

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Arequipa, known as the “White City” due to its beautiful colonial buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic stone. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Arequipa’s historic center. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day free to gradually acclimatize to the altitude (2,335 meters) and begin exploring the surroundings at your own pace. We recommend taking a leisurely stroll around the Plaza de Armas and its surroundings, enjoying a light lunch at a local restaurant to sample the famous Arequipa cuisine, and perhaps visiting some of the local craft shops. At sunset, enjoy the views from one of the terraces of cafes or restaurants that offer panoramic views of the volcanoes surrounding the city, especially the imposing Misti. Accommodation in Arequipa.

Day 4: Arequipa City Tour

After breakfast, start a comprehensive tour of the city. The visit includes the picturesque district of Yanahuara with its viewpoint offering spectacular vistas of the volcanoes surrounding the city; the Plaza de Armas, one of the most beautiful main squares in Peru; and the imposing Cathedral. The highlight will be the Santa Catalina Monastery, a city within a city, with its colorful streets named after Spanish cities, beautiful plazas, and the original living quarters of the nuns who inhabited this cloister for centuries. You will also visit the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries, home to the famous “Juanita” mummy, a young Inca girl sacrificed in the 15th century and discovered frozen on Mount Ampato in 1995. Dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Arequipa cuisine (included).

Day 5: Colca Canyon

Early morning departure (around 7:30 am) for an unforgettable journey to the Colca Valley. The route takes you through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to vicuñas and other Andean wildlife, with spectacular views of volcanoes and landscapes. Stop at Patapampa, the highest point of the journey at 4,910 meters, for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Continue to the town of Chivay, the capital of the Colca Province, where you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the local market and, if time allows, enjoy the relaxing thermal baths of La Calera (entrance fee not included). Dinner and accommodation at your hotel in the Colca Valley.

Day 6: Colca Canyon / Bus to Puno

Very early departure (around 6:00 am) to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, the best location to observe the majestic Andean condors as they ride the morning thermal currents rising from the deep canyon. The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest in the world at 4,160 meters. After witnessing this spectacular natural display, visit some of the traditional villages and archaeological sites in the valley before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic 5-hour drive across the altiplano (high plain) to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca at 3,810 meters above sea level. The journey offers stunning views of the Andean landscape with its characteristic flora and fauna. Arrival in Puno in the early evening and transfer to your hotel.

Day 7: Lake Titicaca – Uros and Taquile Islands

After breakfast, prepare for a full-day excursion on the highest navigable lake in the world. Your aquatic adventure begins with a visit to the fascinating Floating Islands of the Uros, made entirely from totora reeds. Here, you’ll learn about the unique lifestyle of the Uros people who have maintained these artificial islands for generations. Continue with a longer boat ride to Taquile Island, known worldwide for its high-quality textiles, considered among the best in Peru and recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Explore this beautiful island where time seems to have stood still, and the local community maintains many of their ancestral traditions. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients, followed by a demonstration of textiles and weaving techniques by the islanders. Return to Puno in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel.

Day 8: Route of the Sun to Cusco (Bus or Train Option)

BUS OPTION: After breakfast, depart on a scenic bus journey across the Andean plateau to Cusco. This full-day excursion, known as the “Route of the Sun,” includes several stops at interesting sites along the way:

• Pukara, an important pre-Inca ceremonial center
• La Raya, the highest point of the journey at 4,335 meters, offering spectacular views
• Raqchi, with its impressive Temple of Wiracocha
• Andahuaylillas, home to the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” Lunch will be provided at a restaurant en route. Arrival in Cusco in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel.

TRAIN OPTION (with additional supplement): Transfer to the train station to board the luxurious Titicaca Train or Andean Explorer for a magical journey through the Peruvian highlands. Enjoy gourmet meals, open bar, and entertainment on board while traveling through breathtaking landscapes. The train makes a stop at La Raya pass, where you can take photographs and appreciate the majestic Andean scenery. Arrival in Cusco in the late afternoon and transfer to your hotel.

Day 9: Cusco City Tour

Morning at leisure to acclimatize to Cusco’s altitude (3,400 meters). We recommend taking it easy, staying hydrated, and perhaps enjoying a traditional coca tea, which helps with altitude adjustment. In the afternoon, embark on a fascinating tour of the ancient Inca capital. Visit the Plaza de Armas with its impressive Cathedral housing important colonial art; the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the most important religious complex of the Inca Empire; and the impressive surrounding archeological sites: the fortress of Sacsayhuamán with its massive stone walls, the amphitheater of Qenqo, the water shrine of Tambomachay, and the military outpost of Puka Pukara. In the evening, enjoy a special dinner with a folkloric show presenting traditional dances from different regions of Peru.

Day 10: Sacred Valley

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, located at a lower altitude than Cusco, which provides pleasant relief while allowing you to explore this fertile valley irrigated by the Urubamba River. First, visit the impressive archaeological complex of Pisac with its agricultural terraces cascading down the mountainside. Explore the colorful artisan market in the colonial town, where you can purchase authentic Andean crafts. After a buffet lunch featuring regional dishes, continue to Ollantaytambo, the only Inca town that has been continuously inhabited since the 13th century. Explore its remarkable archaeological complex before checking into your hotel in the Sacred Valley. Evening at leisure to enjoy the tranquility and special energy of this magical area.

Day 11: Maras, Moray and Transfer to Ollantaytambo

Begin your day with a visit to two fascinating and less-frequented sites in the Sacred Valley. First, explore Moray, an impressive Inca agricultural laboratory consisting of circular terraced depressions that created different microclimates, allowing experimentation with crops at various “simulated altitudes.” Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, a spectacular complex of thousands of small pools cascading down a hillside, where salt has been harvested since pre-Inca times using techniques passed down through generations. After lunch at a local restaurant, return to your hotel in Ollantaytambo to prepare for the Inca Trail adventure that begins tomorrow. Attend a briefing with your trekking guide who will provide details about the trail and help you organize your equipment. Overnight in Ollantaytambo to ensure you’re well-rested for the trek.

Day 12: Short Inca Trail – Day 1

Early morning transfer to Ollantaytambo train station to board the train to km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. After showing your passport and trail permit at the checkpoint, begin your trek with a moderate climb to the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young” in Quechua). Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the Urubamba River valley and surrounding mountains. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into Inca history and the significance of the sites you’re visiting. After exploring Wiñay Wayna, continue along the classic Inca Trail through cloud forest until you reach Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), your first viewpoint of Machu Picchu in the distance – a truly magical moment. Descend to Aguas Calientes without entering Machu Picchu (you’ll visit it properly tomorrow) and check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner and rest for tomorrow’s early visit to the citadel.

Day 13: Machu Picchu / Return to Cusco

Wake up early to catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (2,430 meters). As the morning mist clears, witness the magical unveiling of this architectural marvel, recently voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a 2-3 hour guided tour through the main sectors of the citadel, learning about the history and possible functions of key areas such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Square, and the residential and agricultural sectors. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the site at your own pace or simply soak in the mystical atmosphere. In the afternoon, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus transfer to Cusco. Arrival in Cusco in the evening and transfer to your hotel.

Day 14: Free Day in Cusco

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Cusco to explore this fascinating city at your own pace or simply rest after the intense previous days. We recommend visiting some of the excellent museums in the city such as the Pre-Columbian Art Museum or the Inka Museum; exploring the bohemian San Blas neighborhood with its artisan workshops; or browsing the San Pedro Market for local products and souvenirs. For food lovers, Cusco offers a thriving culinary scene blending traditional Andean ingredients with modern techniques. Don’t miss trying local specialties like alpaca steak, guinea pig, or the variety of corn and potato dishes that showcase Peru’s biodiversity. Alternatively, we can organize optional excursions to nearby attractions such as Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) or Humantay Lake (additional cost). Evening free to enjoy Cusco’s vibrant nightlife or a farewell dinner at one of the excellent restaurants in the city.

Day 15: Cusco / Flight to Lima / Farewell Peru

After breakfast and depending on your flight schedule, enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or visits in Cusco. At the scheduled time, transfer to Cusco airport for your flight back to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, depending on the time available before your international flight, you might have a brief additional visit or enjoy a farewell lunch (not included). Transfer to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your international flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of your comprehensive journey through Peru’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

INCLUDES:

ACCOMMODATION

• 1 night hotel in Lima (selected category)
• 2 nights hotel in Arequipa (selected category)
• 1 night hotel in Colca Valley (selected category)
• 2 nights hotel in Puno (selected category)
• 5 nights hotel in Cusco (selected category)
• 2 nights hotel in Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo (selected category)
• 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes (selected category)

MEALS

• 14 breakfasts at hotels
• 5 lunches (Sacred Valley, Colca, Taquile Island, en route to Cusco, during Inca Trail)
• 3 dinners (welcome dinner in Arequipa, Colca Valley, folklore show in Cusco)
• Box lunch during Inca Trail

TRANSPORTATION

• All airport-hotel-airport transfers
• Private transportation during indicated tours
• Bus or train from Puno to Cusco (according to chosen option)
• Train tickets Ollantaytambo-KM104 and Aguas Calientes-Ollantaytambo
• Bus tickets up and down to Machu Picchu citadel

TOURS AND ENTRANCES

• Lima city tour with professional guide
• Arequipa city tour with professional guide
• Colca Canyon excursion with professional guide
• Full-day Lake Titicaca tour (Uros and Taquile) with professional guide
• Cusco city tour with professional guide
• Full-day Sacred Valley tour with professional guide
• Maras and Moray excursion with professional guide
• Short Inca Trail (2 days/1 night) with specialized trekking guide
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• All entrance tickets to sites and attractions mentioned in the itinerary

SERVICES

• Official bilingual tour guides (Spanish and English)
• Specialized trekking guide for Inca Trail
• Permanent assistance throughout the tour
• Complimentary water bottles during tours
• Oxygen tank and first aid kit during high-altitude excursions
• Briefing session before Inca Trail

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

AIR TRANSPORTATION

• International flights to/from Peru
• Domestic flights:
  • Lima – Arequipa
  • Cusco – Lima

MEALS

• Lunches and dinners not specified
• Beverages during included meals

PERSONAL EXPENSES

• Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
• Purchases and souvenirs
• Laundry services
• Phone calls
• Optional excursions not mentioned in the program

INCA TRAIL EXTRAS

• Personal porter (can be arranged for an additional fee)
• Walking sticks (can be rented)
• Sleeping bag (can be rented)
• Additional snacks beyond provided meals

OTHER

• Supplement for train option from Puno to Cusco
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Expenses derived from problems beyond our organization (strikes, delays, cancellations, weather conditions, natural disasters, etc.)
• Airport taxes or departure fees
• Excess baggage charges

IMPORTANT:

• The Short Inca Trail requires a permit that must be reserved well in advance (ideally 6 months)
• Permits are limited and subject to availability
• A copy of a valid passport is required for reservation
• A reasonable level of fitness is required for the Inca Trail portion
• It is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours in advance for international flights and 2 hours for domestic flights
• Please consult us about cancellation and modification policies