Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy the stunning views of Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve
- Navigate the sparkling Lake Titicaca by boat
- Take the luxurious Belmond Sleeper Train to Cuzco
- Learn the history of the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- Breakfast
- International Flights
Sarah
Travel Specialist
This tour takes in Peru’s most iconic natural wonders and historical sites, including the stunning Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu. More than just a holiday – this is a tour in style, as you will board the luxury Belmond Sleeper train, the Andean Explorer, for an exceptional journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Discover the contrasts of Lima, the capital city. Dive into the plentiful history around the main square, Plaza de Armas, and learn at the city’s fascinating museums; explore the upmarket cosmopolitan delights of Miraflores; shop, eat and dance in the relaxed Barranco area. In the ‘White City’ Arequipa, wander the meandering streets and explore the magnificent cathedral. The Colca Canyon, home to the Andean condor and breath-taking landscapes, will undoubtedly be a highlight, while Lake Titicaca shows the glory of Peru, with mystical reed islands, sparkling waters and charming indigenous villages.
The Belmond Andean Explorer is the most decadent way to journey across the vast expanses of Peru; palatial cabins and gourmet dining guarantee a fantastic experience. The Andean Explorer will take you high into the Peruvian mountains to visit Cuzco, with its deep-rooted history and culture, before your journey on to the iconic Machu Picchu. Keep your camera to hand and take in all the wonder of this world-famous site, before continuing into the charming Sacred Valley. Relax and explore the valley; perhaps taking in some more historical sites, browsing a traditional market or embarking on a mountain trek.
Itinerary
Day 1 UK – Lima
Depart the UK on your flight to Lima. The city is bursting with a choice of experiences and activities – from browsing museums and discovering ancient culture to shopping and eating in the more cosmopolitan districts. Make sure to explore the central Plaza de Armas, and indulge in Lima’s exceptional dining scene at Latin America’s best restaurant, Central.
Day 2 Lima
A full day of exploring the city awaits. Take a tour of the historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace, and make sure to take the time to tour the Monastery of San Francisco. To learn more about Inca history, stop by the Larco Museum, which is home to a vast collection of ancient exhibits and artefacts.
Staying at
Atemporal
Day 3 Lima – Arequipa
Arequipa, Peru’s ‘White City’ is a beautiful city in the shadow of the El Misti volcano. Explore the charming streets, browse for traditional crafts and bask in the beautiful architecture, hewn from white volcanic rock.
Day 4 Arequipa
A day to fully soak in the White City’s charms. Stop by the cathedral to admire the beautiful architecture; explore the Santa Catalina convent, a vast and impressive structure that houses winding paths and fascinating buildings. An unusual attraction in Arequipa can be found at the museum of Santuarios Andinos, where the mummified body of a young girl Juanita can be viewed, dating back to the 1400s.
Staying at
Casa Andina Premium Puno
Day 5 Arequipa – Colca Canyon
An early start sees you journey from Arequipa to the higher altitudes of the Colca Canyon. From the village of Yura, drive to the Aguada Blanca y Salinas National Reserve and enjoy the stunning vistas around you – keep your camera handy! Settle into the Colca Lodge, your hotel for tonight.
Day 6 Colca Canyon – Lake Titicaca
Reach the Cruz del Condor viewing point for the premier vantage point to view the canyon. This viewpoint is also the ideal place for spotting the magnificent Andean condor, weather permitting. The impressive bird glides and swoops across the mesmerising views over the canyon. The canyon is also home to charming mountainsides and historic tombs.
After a traditional lunch in Chivay, depart the canyon for Puno and Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake.
Staying at
Casa Andina Premium Puno
Day 7 Lake Titicaca
Leave your hotel and Puno by boat for a breath-taking day navigating the sparkling Lake Titicaca. A short trek to the summit of Taquile Island reveals unbelievable views of Lake Titicaca as well as the Cordillera Real mountain range. On your way back to Puno stop by the Uros floating reed islands and discover the indigenous way of life.
Staying at
Casa Andina Premium Puno
Day 8 Overnight Luxury Belmond Sleeper Train – Andean Explorer
Your luxury transport and accommodation is Latin America’s first luxury overnight locomotive. Traverse one of the most lofty train routes as part of the ‘Spirit of the Andes’ journey, and enjoy the superlative service and amenities on board the Andean Explorer. Enjoy a trip through the craggy and magnificent surroundings at La Raya, the most vertiginous point on your route. Admire the sunset from the train, as it continues towards the city of Cuzco.
Day 9 Cuzco
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in the train’s dining car as your journey continues to Cuzco. Admire the verdant landscapes and vibrant towns as you make your way towards the centre of the city. Explore the heart of Cuzco, characterised by wandering cobbled streets and fascinating history.
Day 10 Cuzco
Explore the colonial treasures of Cuzco today. Stop by the main square and explore the city; take in the stunning carvings of the cathedral and the amazing interiors at Koricancha, the Incan temple of the sun. The magnificent Sacsayhuaman fortress looms mysteriously over the city, and is just one of the many culturally important sites in Cuzco.
Staying at
Aranwa Cuzco
Day 11 Cuzco
Spend the day at leisure exploring the endless wonders of the city. Perhaps spend the day enjoying Peruvian gastronomy; while away the hours at one of the charming cafés dotted around Cuzco, or try your hand at cooking some classic dishes at one of MAP Cafe's classes.
The Pisco Museum, dedicated to Peru’s national liqueur is a fascinating stop, where you can learn about production and sample some signature cocktails.
Staying at
Aranwa Cuzco
Day 12 Cuzco – Machu Picchu
Undoubtedly the most iconic and anticipated sight on any Peruvian tour, Machu Picchu will of course be a highlight. After a scenic journey, arrive at Aguas Calientes, where you will board your bus towards the Machu Picchu entrance. Discover the secrets of this ancient citadel and learn all about Incan history. Tour the magnificent ruins and admire the panoramic views.
Day 13 Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley
Spend the morning exploring more of Machu Picchu. At the Intipunka (Sun Gate) look out over the wide terraces and enjoy unforgettable views.
In the afternoon, take the train to Ollantaytambo and enjoy the charms of the Sacred Valley. Explore the villages and ruins around the area, and relax at your hotel.
Day 14 Sacred Valley
The valley is home to an inviting array of activities and experiences. Discover the valley’s various villages for a varied taste of Peruvian life. Famous for its daily market, the village of Pisac also has impressive ruins to explore, while Moray is known for its distinctive circular terraces, and Maras is home to stunning salt pans and mines.
More active visitors can take part in trekking, kayaking, rafting, zip lining or mountain biking excursions.
Staying at
Sol y Luna
Day 15 Lima – UK
Depart Cuzco for Lima, where you will board your flight home to the UK.
Our team can tailor-make an itinerary if you wish to extend your Peruvian holiday. Ask our Travel Specialists for suggestions, ranging from a beach trip to unwind at Mancora, or perhaps an exploratory journey to the Peruvian Amazon.
Would you like to speak to a South America expert?
Contact our Travel Specialists for a bespoke quote or some first-hand knowledge.
Christmas Eve: 9am - 3pm
New Years Eve: 9am - 3pm
25th Dec, 26th Dec & 1 Jan: CLOSED
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
