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JOURNEY THROUGH PERU
Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Colca Canyon
Peru is an extraordinary destination that captivates travelers with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu nestled high in the Andes to the vast, mysterious Nazca Lines etched into the desert, Peru is a land of wonder and intrigue. The country offers a remarkable diversity of experiences, trek through the Sacred Valley, explore the colonial charm of Cusco, or sail across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Peru is also a paradise for food lovers, with Lima recognized as one of the top culinary capitals in the world. Whether you're venturing into the Amazon rainforest, wandering the colorful streets of Arequipa, or marveling at the dramatic beauty of Colca Canyon, Peru promises unforgettable adventures and a deep connection to one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.
DAY 1
Welcome to Peru!
This morning you will arrive in Cusco where you will meet your driver and head to the “Sacred Valley of the Incas,” a succession of picturesque Andean towns, agricultural terraces, and many archaeological sites.
The mild climate, the varied and dramatic scenery of snow-capped mountains, flowering meadows, lush green hills and spectacular flora and fauna, make the Valley a prime adventure destination in South America.
Enjoy a special lunch at Hacienda Sarapampa. Protected by its mountains and extraordinary climate, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is the cradle of one of the most exceptional corn varieties in the world, adapted to grow only within the boundaries of the valley. At Hacienda Sarapampa, we invite you to learn how the Incas developed such a unique corn variety, and how their ancestral techniques have survived along with the modern production of corn. Afterwards you will enjoy a delicious 4 course gourmet lunch offering both indigenous ingredients as well as cuisines brought in during colonial times.
After lunch, settle in to your hotel where the afternoon is at leisure to relax and unwind before your next adventure tomorrow.
Where You Will Stay
Sol Y Luna (5 star)
Explora Valle Sagrado (5 star)
Rio Sagrado (5 star)
DAY 2
Ollantaytambo with Pachamanca Lunch
Today meet your guide and head to Ollantaytambo, a captivating Inca village known for its remarkably preserved ruins, ancient terraces, and living history. Set beneath towering mountains, it offers a rare glimpse into Inca life that still thrives today. Once a ceremonial site, Ollantaytambo was also the scene of a rare Inca victory against the Spanish and is home to the striking Temple of the Sun and an advanced system of canals, testament to the Incas’ engineering genius.
For lunch, experience a traditional pachamanca, an ancient Andean feast celebrating Mother Earth. This unique meal is cooked underground using hot stones and includes marinated meats, potatoes, corn, and more, prepared and served just as it has been for centuries.
Where You Will Stay
Sol Y Luna (5 star)
Explora Valle Sagrado (5 star)
Rio Sagrado (5 star)
DAY 3
Moray and Maras Salt Terraces
After breakfast, meet your guide and head to Moray where you will begin your hike amongst one of the most unusual ruins in all of Peru. These striking circular terraces, carved deep into the earth, are thought to have been an ancient agricultural research center where the Incas experimented with growing crops at different elevations and microclimates.
Afterwards, head to the nearby Maras Salt Terraces, where thousands of shallow pools create a stunning mosaic across the mountainside. Local families have been harvesting salt here for generations, using age-old techniques that are still very much alive today.
Where You Will Stay
Sol Y Luna (5 star)
Explora Valle Sagrado (5 star)
Rio Sagrado, A Belmond Hotel (5 star)
DAY 4
Journey to Machu Picchu
Say farewell to the sacred valley and meet your guide where you will be taken to Ollantaytambo station to board the Hiram Bingham train to Aguas Calientes.
The train takes a spectacular journey through a changing landscape while you enjoy mimosas on board, passing lush fields and colourful villages in the foothills of the Andes. The journey is highlighted by wonderful vistas of the mountains and the beautiful Urubamba River, which runs through the Sacred Valley. You will be served a 4-course lunch on board just before arriving into destination.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes proceed to ride an exclusive bus up the hillside to Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas”. Machu Picchu which means “Old Mountain”, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the seven new wonders of the world. We spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the Sacred Inca citadel, exploring its main temples and hidden corners.
This evening is at leisure at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Where You Will Stay
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (5 star)
DAY 5
Cusco
Spend a relaxing morning enjoying your hotel before heading to the station to board the Vistadome Observatory Train back to Cusco.
With its panoramic windows beside and above your seat, the train offers unbeatable views of the stunning Andes as you journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley. On board the Observatory Car, enjoy a unique travel experience complete with live music and traditional Andean dance performances that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Upon arrival at Poroy Station, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Cusco. The evening is yours to unwind, explore the city’s vibrant streets, and enjoy a delicious dinner at your leisure.
Where You Will Stay
Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel (5 star)
Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel (5 star)
Inkaterra La Casona (5 star)
DAY 6
Horseback Riding in Sacsayhuaman
This morning, our guide will meet you at your hotel lobby for a very special experience.
Discover the magic and serenity of the Andes on an exclusive horseback excursion around Tambomachay and Sacsayhuamán, part of the "nearby ruins" that are located over the hills dominating the city of Cusco. This ride will take you through trails surrounded by natural beauty, where the Andean landscape intertwines with monuments loaded with historical and cultural significance.
Tambomachay was a place dedicated to the water worship and as a resting place for the Inca nobility. Today, this archaeological site continues to impress all visitors with its complex hydraulic engineering.
The location has an approximate extension of half a hectare and the material used for its construction was limestone with polygonal style masonry, crossed by aqueducts that carry crystal clear water all year round.
Sacsayhuaman is the largest and most impressive of the four archaeological ruins on the outskirts of Cusco. Built by the Incas, it served an important military function and was the site of a major battle with the Spanish in 1536. The complex was constructed out of massive stones, some weighing as much as 300 tons, cut to fit together without the use of mortar. A true enigma!
After this experience, enjoy lunch at a restaurant located on Cusco’s Main Square, with an incomparable view of its majestic churches and Colonial buildings
Where You Will Stay
Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel (5 star)
Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel (5 star)
Inkaterra La Casona (5 star)
DAY 7
Andean Explorer
This morning step aboard the Andean Explorer, South America's first luxury sleeper train, and experience Peru in a truly unforgettable way.
Traveling between Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa, this stylish train takes you through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, from high-altitude plains and snow-capped peaks to serene lakes and remote villages.
While on board, you'll relax in beautifully designed cabins, enjoy gourmet Peruvian cuisine, and soak in the views from the open-air observation car. Live music, cozy lounges, and thoughtfully curated excursions, like visiting Lake Titicaca or the ancient Sumbay Caves, make the experience immersive and personal.
It’s more than just a train ride; it’s a moving window into the heart and soul of the Andes.
Where You Will Stay
Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train
DAY 8
Peruvian Highlands
After enjoying breakfast aboard the train, embark on a journey to the stunning Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world. Explore its fascinating islands, starting with a traditional boat ride to the unique floating islands of the Uros, handcrafted entirely from layers of totora reeds and continually maintained by local communities.
Next, sail to Taquile Island, known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking views, where you'll enjoy a delicious local lunch. Your adventure concludes with a relaxing visit to the serene shores of Collata Beach.
Return to the train for a relaxing afternoon of entertainment on board.
Where You Will Stay
Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train
DAY 9
Colca Canyon
Watch the sunrise surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Lake Lagunillas and then enjoy a delicious breakfast. Later you will visit the Sumbay caves, home to fascinating cave paintings estimated to be over 8000 years old.
Return to the train to pack your bags and afterwards disembark in Cañahuas and continue into the Colca Canyon with your private driver. On the way you will go through the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca where you will have the chance to spot herds of alpacas and llamas, and graceful vicuñas as well. Inactive volcanoes as well as geological formations featuring curious shapes caused by erosion are also characteristic along our route.
You will arrive at your hotel and have the afternoon at leisure.
Where You Will Stay
PUQIO (5 star)
DAY 9
Colca Canyon
Watch the sunrise surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Lake Lagunillas and then enjoy a delicious breakfast. Later you will visit the Sumbay caves, home to fascinating cave paintings estimated to be over 8000 years old.
Return to the train to pack your bags and afterwards disembark in Cañahuas and continue into the Colca Canyon with your private driver. On the way you will go through the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca where you will have the chance to spot herds of alpacas and llamas, and graceful vicuñas as well. Inactive volcanoes as well as geological formations featuring curious shapes caused by erosion are also characteristic along our route.
You will arrive at your hotel and have the afternoon at leisure.
Where You Will Stay
PUQIO (5 star)
DAY 9
Farewell
As your unforgettable journey through Puglia and Basilicata comes to a close, your driver will meet you for a private transfer to the airport.