BRIEF
Destinations:
Lima - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Cusco - Puno - Arequipa - Paracas
Highlights:
- Guided tour ofDowntown Limaand gastronomical experience.
- Visit the wonders ofMaras,Moray,Chinchero,PisacandOllantaytamboand departure toMachu Picchu.
- Uros,TaquileandSillustani; then, a guided tour ofArequipa,Santa Catalina Monasteryand theColca Canyon.
- Visit theBallestas Islandsand take an overflight above the incredibleNazca Lines.
Areas of Interest
Art & Culture
Archaeology
Air & Helicopters
Navigation & Cruises
Peru is packed full of travel treasures, culinary delights, cultural heritage and archeological wonders, many of which you will witness on this Classic Tour of Peru. It starts in Lima with an insightful city tour and mouthwatering introduction to Peru’s world-famous gastronomy. From here head to the Sacred Valley for Inca ruins, ancient cities and of course, Machu Picchu. Having visited the great ‘Lost City of the Inca’ and many highlights of Cusco, a change of pace comes at mystical Lake Titicaca with its traditional way of life and floating islands, then Arequipa, one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the Americas. Finally, you’ll explore the Colca Canyon before flying to the desert dunes and beaches of Paracas, on Peru’s dramatic western coast. Throughout, this trip is filled with fascinating tours and memorable scenic sights.
ITINERARY
Day 1:
Upon landing in Lima you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in, ready for an immersive day in the capital. This timeless city is one of the most fascinating and historic in all South America, as you’ll soon see.
The day starts with a full exploration of the city with a guided tour that takes in both its colonial past and contemporary present: Plaza de Armas and the Historical Center; panoramic view of Huaca Pucllana Ruins; the Cathedral and Government’s Palace are particular Lima highlights to look forward to.
Your day finishes in the upmarket districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, both known for their excellent modern restaurants.
Day 2:
Lima is known as the World’s Greatest Gastronomic City, and you’ll get a taste of just why during this mouthwatering foodie tour of Barranco, a much-loved bohemian district that happens to be a hub of street food and first-class restaurants too.
Our tour begins on foot, visiting Hotel B, Dedalo Gallery, we walk down to the “Malecon” of Barranco, Bridge of Sighs, tour of the famous murals and the main square of Barranco. Then, visit a famous local restaurant to have a typical peruvian breakfast: bread with pork crackling or “butifarra”. After that, visit MATE (Mario Testino) Museum and Jade Rivera Museum. Finally, you will taste the best peruvian dishes at a typical restaurant.
Day 3:
From bustling Lima to the Sacred Valley via ancient Cusco, home to some of Peru’s finest architecture and archaeology.
On day 3, a private vehicle will take you to Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco where you’ll be met and driven to Tambo del Inka, a beautifully boutique Sacred Valley hotel that also enjoys a spectacular riverside setting. This is an ideal place to acclimatize yourself for Machu Picchu, visited in two days’ time.
Day 4:
Your Classic Tour of Peru now delves deep into Inca antiquity with visits to some of the Sacred Valley’s greatest sites.
Begin with a look at traditional life in Chinchero Village, where a weaving demo will take place after breakfast. Next, the agricultural terraces of Moray, one of the most impressive ancient sites in Peru. Moray’s stepped platforms are in fact an Inca food laboratory, where each terrace replicated different weather conditions throughout the empire. That way, Inca scientists could learn what grew best during the year, to maximize their crop yields!
From Moray enjoy lunch at a local Sacred Valley restaurant, followed by another ancient marvel—the Maras Salt Mines. These spectacular hillside salt pools have not changed since Inca times, and are still used to this day.
Day 5:
Machu Picchu is considered the world’s best travel destination, an ancient wonder of the world and highlight of South America in one. Day 5 is a special day, as you take a guided tour of the great ‘Lost City’ of the Inca.
You’ll begin in style with a private train boarding at Tambo del Inka’s own platform, "Sacred Valley" train is the chosen one, followed by a scenic journey through the amazing views of the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes and onwards to Machu Picchu. Lunch and dinner are served onboard. Then, simply absorb the magic of Peru’s most iconic ancient site with a fascinating guided tour, before enjoying it all at your own pace with some priceless leisure time.
Machu Picchu conjures images of gold-clad Inca kings, explorers and myth, aided no end by its unmistakable mountaintop setting. Having fully admired the citadel during the day, you’ll take the train back to Tambo del Inka.
*You can ask for the itinerary with Vistadome train.
Day 6:
Your exploration of Peruvian history continues today, with visits to the village of Pisac and Inca city of Ollantaytambo.
After breakfast then, head northeast from Cusco in a private vehicle towards Pisac. This ancient town is best known for its colorful markets of locally woven wares, fresh produce and artisan artefacts. Though catering for tourists today, Pisac market has been attracting locals from the surrounding Sacred Valley hills to trade in this way for centuries, then enjoy lunch at a local Sacred Valley restaurant
From Pisac, head to the huge monuments, fortress and terraces of spectacular Ollantaytambo. Ollantaytambo is one of the most impressive Inca sites in Peru, both for the archeology and Sacred Valley views once you’re there. It’s also the only Inca city still inhabited to this day. At the end of the day you will be transferred to Cusco city
Day 7:
Cusco is home to some of Peru’s greatest archeological sites, most fascinating history and atmospheric streets—all of which you will experience during a VIP walking tour today. Among the many highlights of Cusco, San Pedro Market and its stalls of crafts and wares is a great place to start, followed by a walk through some of the city’s ancient streets and plazas to the Cathedral, Iglesia De Santo Domingo and the Qorikancha Temple.
The last of these is a spectacular Inca building that was once clad entirely in gold, though the colonial architecture throughout the city is just as impressive. Your discovery of Cusco also takes you to Palacio del Inka and the Mansion of Cuatro Bustos, a marvelous 500-year-old building full of priceless original artworks
Day 8:
From one mystical site to another, day 8 of your Classic Tour of Peru sees you travel from the Sacred Valley to Puno, on the shored of the mythical Lake Titicaca.
The highest navigable lake in the world that straddles both Peru and Bolivia, Titicaca held spiritual status for the Inca and other ancient peoples before them, and is today known for its floating reed islands, gorgeous views and secluded monuments.
You’ll travel to Puno on the PeruRail Titicaca train, a scenic journey passing beautiful countryside, rolling hills, open plains and rural villages. On arrival check into your hotel and relax.
Day 9:
Exploring both the traditions and beauty spots of Lake Titicaca is always a joy.
Your Lake Titicaca tour begins with a boat trip to the famous floating reed islands of Uros. Made from thousands of reeds tightly woven together by hand, the Uros islands offer a glimpse into the past. Lakeside communities have lived like this, in their reed houses, for hundreds of years, fishing and keeping safe from Spanish invaders and rival ancient clans.
It’s a fascinating visit and you’ll get to visit locals too, before continuing to Taquile Island. Here you can meet more island dwellers and local weavers before exploring beautiful Taquile Island, its waterside pathways, agricultural terraces and amazing Lake Titicaca views.
Finally, boat ride back to Puno for an evening at leisure.
Day 10:
As you wave goodbye to Puno and Lake Titicaca there is still time for one more highlight, with a visit to the striking Sillustani Chullpas. These impressive Inca monuments form part of one of the most significant necropolises in the Americas. A fitting end to your time in this part of Peru.
From Sillustani you’ll be taken to Puno Airport for your flight to Arequipa, one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Peru. Upon arrival check into your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Day 11:
Peru’s Colca Canyon is a true marvel of Mother Nature. This sweeping gorge is 3,270m deep and flanked by snowy mountains and open plains, home also to the Giant Andean Condor.
We are going to leave very early (3-4 AM approx.) to enjoy a full day of exploration in and around the Colca Canyon begins with a tour of the nearby Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a beautiful expanse of wildlife, rivers and mountains. Next up is Patapampa which is known for its magnificent viewpoints, before a visit to the town of Chivay and onwards to Cruz del Condor—the ‘Condor Pass’.
Cruz del Condor not only offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley, but with luck you can also witness Giant Andean Condors in their natural habitat here too, always a memorable sight.
Day 12:
Day 12 of your Classic Tour of Peru is a varied and exciting one. First, a guided tour of Arequipa will take in some of the most ornate and interesting buildings in the White City. These include the beautiful Cathedral of Arequipa and Plaza de Armas, known for its incredible carved columns, archways and historic atmosphere.
Later you’ll visit the magnificent Monastery of Santa Catalina. This stunning convent of alleyways, fountains and courtyards has sheltered the nuns of Arequipa for over 400 years and is a real highlight of the city.
With its brightly painted walls, frescoes and pretty cobblestone pathways Santa Catalina Monastery is a picture-perfect way to finish your time in Arequipa. In the afternoon you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima and once you arrive, you’ll picked up by a private vehicle to be transferred to Paracas.
Day 13:
Departing from the private dock of the hotel, a morning motorboat tour will take you first to the Ballestas Islands. These rocky outcrops are known for their huge populations of seabirds and sea lions, marine otters and ever-lovable Humboldt Penguins – a charming natural spectacle.
As the afternoon enters early evening, what better way unwind than with a wine-hosted luxury yacht tour along Paracas Bay? While aboard your first-class vessel tuck into small bites of Peruvian dishes and glasses of fizz as you sail, on the lookout for resident marine life, ancient cliff carvings, and admiring those coastal views.
**Our yacht is undergoing maintenance, with no date of return to operation, so we will be offering an alternative boat in your quote.
Day 14:
On Day 14 of your Classic Tour of Peru, get ready for one of Peru’s most incredible ancient wonders, the Nazca Lines.
Departing the hotel after breakfast, you’ll set off for the desert and your unforgettable overflight above this amazing historic site. Visible only from the air, the giant sand carvings of Nazca simply must be seen to be believed. They are hundreds of years old, accurate, incredible to witness and still full of mysteries to this day.
What better way to round off your tour of Peru than with an exciting 4x4 desert drive around the dunes of Paracas? In the afternoon, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken out for an adrenaline-packed drive, taking in the majesty of the desert as well as some wonderful views.
**Nazca overflights are subject to weather conditions on the day
Day 15:
The last day you can enjoy the morning at leisure. You can begin to explore the bays and beaches of Paracas or simply admire the sea views from the hotel’s pool, sun terrace or your private balcony.
Finally, as your trip draws to an end, a private vehicle will be on-hand to take you to Lima Airport, ready for your onward flight home.
REMARKS
Travel Tips:
- Best season for this trip: This is a year-round tour, though rainy season in Cusco occurs during November-March.
- Who does this trip suit? This trip is ideal for, couples, families and small groups.
- Customizable? Yes, all of our tours are personalized to suit you, so just let your Venturia specialist know what you need!.
Packing List
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Comfortable shoes
Hat
Comfortable clothes
LODGING OPTIONS
Tambo del Inka Luxury Collection
Resort & Spa
- Area: Urubamba, Sacred Valley
- Avenida Ferrocarril, Urubamba, Sacred Valley
Your luxury Sacred Valley hotel awaits, at Tambo del Inka, a stunning riverside property that fuses modern comforts and sublime style, a spa and fine dining cuisine with a real respect for Peru’s past.
Palacio del Inka, a Luxury
Collection Hotel
- Cusco
- Plazoleta Santo Domingo 259
One of the most beautiful luxury hotels in Cusco, housed in a 500-year-old mansion that’s been stunningly restored as an intimate boutique retreat; the historic Palacio del Inka will leave you spellbound.
The Westin Lima Hotel
- Lima
- Calle Las Begonias 450, San Isidro
The Westin Lima Hotel showcases the best of the capital, with its cutting-edge décor and dreamy wellness center, fine dining food and some of the best hotel views in Lima, here in upmarket San Isidro.
Aloft Lima
- Lima
- Av. 28 de Julio N 894, Miraflores
Contemporary, cool, glass-clad and found in the heart of Miraflores, Aloft is a striking boutique Lima hotel with a pool, restaurant and luxe rooms that’s both family-friendly and great for couples in one.
AC Hotel Lima Miraflores
- Lima
- Malecón de la Reserva 729, Miraflores
If location is key then the sleek, minimalist, AC Hotel Lima Miraflores could be for you, situated as it is on Malecón de la Reserva near some of Lima’s top attractions, shops and restaurants.
Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort
- Area: Paracas
- Av. Paracas 173, Paracas
For a modern luxury resort overlooking the Peruvian coast, with a spa and swimming pools, multiple restaurants and spacious suites, Hotel Paracas in the Paracas National Reserve is tough to top.
DETAILS
What´s included:
- Hotel accommodation throughout
- Meals are provided according to the itinerary
- Guided excursions with entrance tickets and meals according to the itinerary
- Private transfers between hotels/stations/airports/excursions according to the itinerary
- 24/7 assistance and personal concierge
- Liability insurance coverage
What´s not included:
- International and domestic air tickets
- Hotel extras
- Tips (are not mandatory)
- Services not already mentioned on the itinerary
Notes:
- Rates per person in USD$ (American Dollars)
- Rates may vary during holidays or special events
- Itineraries are subject to change due to weather or other unexpected events
- Meals are provided according to the policy of each hotel. Only meals mention in the itinerary are included at the final price
- Signed disclaimer is required on some adventure activities
- We recommend having a valid Travel and Medical Insurance Policy before travelling to Peru
- Subject to Venturia´s terms and conditions
Speak to one of our experts
To design truly unforgettable travel experiences in Peru, you need a specialized, skilled and passionate team to make that happen time and time again. Here at Venturia we have just that, an expert group of people whose creativity, knowledge, inspiration for and love of Peru transmits through to every single trip, embodying the pure beauty of travel along the way.
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VENTURIA
Amador Merino Reyna 551 - Lima 27, Perú