BRIEF
Destinations:
Lima - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Cusco - Puno - Arequipa
Highlights:
- Gastronomical experience andPeruvian Paso Horse ExhibitionInca Trail toMachu Picchu(2-day journey).Enjoy adventure activities in Cusco and theSacred Valley, like E-biking, Rainbow Mountain, ZipLine and ATVs.Urosfloating islands,TaquileandSillustani;Arequipa, the ‘White City’,Colca CanyonandSanta Catalina Monastery.
Areas of Interest
Biking & Sports
Gastronomy
Aventure & Trekking
Archaeology
This journey is an unbeatable way to get under the skin of Peru, exploring the beautiful landscapes of the south and connecting with local traditions and culture, too. Rather than hopping from one place to the next every day, or trying to cover the whole country in a single trip, this tour allows you to spend several days in one base to really understand and explore each destination you visit.
You’ll travel from the cosmopolitan capital, Lima, to the bucolic Sacred Valley, where you’ll spend 6 nights. You’ll then take the train towards Arequipa, stopping in route at Lake Titicaca and Sillustani, before soaking up the delights of Peru’s “White City” and the Colca Canyon.
So come and uncover what many don’t have time to see. Taste fine Peruvian cuisine, be mesmerized by the scenery of the south, and enjoy a host of active adventures along the way.
ITINERARY
Day 1:
Upon landing in Lima you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. This timeless city is one of the most fascinating and historic in all South America, as you’ll soon see.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Day 2:
Day 2 starts with a panoramic visit of the historic center of Lima; then, discover the archaeological ruins of Pachacamac, just over 30km from the capital. You’ll tour this pre-Inca site with a guide, exploring the temples, pyramids and palaces. After that, discover the Peruvian rhythm and tradition, enjoying our typical dances: expression of our ancient peoples of the Coast, The Andes and the Jungle. Accompany it with endless flavors, a heritage of many generations: a lunch with more than 20 iconic dishes from our Peruvian gastronomy.
To complete the experience, awaken your senses with the best show ever seen, the Peruvian Paso Horse show, which captivates with its staging full of color, history and typical horseback riding dances. At the end of the day, a private transportation will take you back to your hotel.
Day 3:
Get to know the exquisite cuisine of Peru today as you indulge in a gastronomic experience. This immersive activity will introduce you to the origins of Peruvian cuisine through audiovisual effects. Not only will you master the art of local cookery with a talented chef, you’ll also get to learn about how Pisco is made – a must-try in Peru! To top off the complete foodie journey you’ll be immersed into a unique sensory space awash with the flavors, smells and textures of Peruvian food. After this tantalizing foodie experience, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Day 4:
Take a flight from Lima to Cusco, where you will be collected and transferred to the Sacred Valley. Your driver will take you to Tambo del Inka, a beautifully Sacred Valley hotel that also enjoys a spectacular riverside setting.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Day 5:
Prepare to see yet more ravishing Sacred Valley scenery today as you explore the countryside by e-bike. We ride e-bikes southeast towards the district of Huayllabamba, passing by quinoa, corn and potato fields. The Urubamba river is present almost on a third of the route. We'll stop on the way to have a quick taste of the different potato varieties in this area. 20 miles approximately.
Afterwards, return to Tambo del Inka where you can spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 6:
This exciting adventure starts taking a train that will take us to Km 104 which is our trekking starting point. Our first stop and visit will be in Chachabamba archaeological site, after 3 hours walking, we will arrive to Wiñaywayna archaeological site. After taking a picnic lunch and recovering energies we will keep on through steep stairs for about 1.5 hours to reach the Sun’s Gate or Intipunku from here we will see why the hike is worth it as we will be rewarded with astonishing views of Machu Picchu. Then, we will initiate the hike down to Machu Picchu for another hour. Finally, we will reach the main motivation for this trip, Machu Picchu here, we will have a glimpse of the surreal sunset and then be transferred to your hotel.
Then, your guide escort you to the Hotel in Aguas Calientes for relaxing and recharging energy after a challenging hiking.
Day 7:
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in order to catch the bus up to the citadel for a 30-minute ride and see over this amazing Lost City of the Incas. When you have already accomplished your tour, it is time to have lunch. Lastly, we will board the train back to Tambo del Inka train station.
Day 8:
Get set for an exhilarating ride today as you tour the Sacred Valley by ATV! After transferring to the Huaypo lagoon, you’ll hop on your ATV and drive through stunning Andean landscapes and views of Verónica, Chicón, Pumahuanca and San Juan and Pitusiray glaciers. From there, we continue to the Salvador lagoon and the Piuray lagoon and end up visiting the community of Munaypata.
Enjoy an afternoon of spa or yoga at Tambo del Inka hotel and relax (subject to availability) .
Day 9:
This day you’ll take to the skies with an adrenaline-packed Sacred Valley zip-line, rock climbing and rappelling tour.
Having travelled to the Andean village of Pachar, your day begins with a 400m climb up the rocky sides of Via Ferrata for some stunning aerial views, followed by a fun-filled zip-line tour between 7 elevated platforms—some up to 700m in length!
It’s an invigorating experience, and the rest of the day can be spent at leisure admiring the Sacred Valley scenery, going for a walk or enjoying the comforts of your hotel. This afternoon transfer to Cusco City.
Day 10:
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, Santo Domingo church 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 11:
It’s an active day today as you head to the breathtaking Vinicunca Mountain – the fifth highest peak in Peru. It is striking for its natural coloration, which have formed through the erosion of sedimentary rocks over many years. The layers of different colors make it look like a rainbow in the rock – hence its nickname, “Rainbow Mountain”.
After being transferred to Pitumarca (Quesiuno) at 4,320 meters above sea level, you will begin a 2 to 3-hour hike up to Vinicunca (5,200m). Once here, spend time soaking up the sweeping panoramas, and fuel up on a boxed lunch. Having taken in the incredible view from up here, return to base and be transferred back to your hotel.
Day 12:
From one gorgeous destination to another, day 12 sees you travel from Cusco City to Puno, on the shores of 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 13:
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 and then a transfer back to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 14:
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 Juliaca 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 15:
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.) 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. At the end of the day, transfer back to your hotel in Arequipa.
Day 16:
First, a guided walk around 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 historical 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.
You’ll be taken to Arequipa Airport for your flight to Lima, and onward journey 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.
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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Amador Merino Reyna 551 - Lima 27, Perú