Journey Through Peru

(13 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon  

This comprehensive journey through Peru visits destinations known for their unique natural beauty, history, and cultural traditions.

Begin with a morning of sophisticated private touring in Lima. This cosmopolitan city is well worth a visit for the opportunity to experience its history as well as Peru’s best museums, shopping and restaurants. Enjoy personalized touring according to your interests, such as an insider tour of the old colonial quarter, a viewing of spectacular pre-Colombian art collections, time for browsing high-quality boutiques and art galleries, or exploring the city’s food markets (including tastings of local specialties).

Next, fly to Cusco, and transfer to the lower elevation of the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Urubamba Valley) for a two night stay. Your private guide will ensure you experience the best of the local culture during visits to indigenous markets and villages, gentle walks or hikes to important Inca and pre-Inca sites, and meetings with renowned local weavers. Active pursuits can also be incorporated, if desired, such as day treks, rafting, horse-back riding or mountain biking. A private Nuevo Andean cooking lesson can also be arranged, upon request.

Board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu and spend one night near the ruins. Your private guide will teach you about the fascinating history of the site and ensure that you have the opportunity to explore the grounds after most tourists have left. Spend the following day exploring the ruins with the option to hike trails to stunning viewpoints around the site before continuing to Cusco by luxury train.

Arrive in Cusco, where an oxygenated room will be arranged at the city’s most historic and distinguished hotel. Your guide will lead you through the narrow cobblestone streets as you learn about the fascinating Incan and Spanish history in the city. During your tour, visit markets, galleries, boutiques and the best artisan workshops. Also opt to see important archaeological sites just outside of the city. In the evenings, enjoy dining reservations at Cusco’s top restaurants. Additional activities can also be arranged, upon request, such as a meeting with a local art expert or an evening cultural performance.

Next, fly to Puno (Juliaca) for two days spent exploring Lake Titicaca by private boat. Your guide will introduce you to some of the local communities living around the lake, each with their distinctive traditional dress and customs. Also enjoy some gentle hiking or opt to ride bicycles through a local village that is off the beaten path, and stop for lunch at the home of a local family.

Continue to the colonial city of Arequipa, one of Peru’s most picturesque cities. Enjoy a private walking tour and visit the most interesting attractions in the area, including the Monasterio de Santa Catalina and other important religious and historic sites.

Spend the next two nights in the Colca Canyon at a luxury lodge on the edge of the canyon. With your private guide, explore villages in the area and see the flying condors. Other outdoor activity options include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, or simply relaxing in your private Jacuzzi and taking in the dramatic canyon landscape.

Conclude the tour with an overnight in Lima before your onward international flight.