Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival at the airport in Lima, you will be greeted by your driver, who will be holding a sign with your name on it. They will transfer you directly to the hotel, for a smooth and comfortable start to your adventure. Check into your room, get settled and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure. (This service is on a private basis.)

Lima

Lima was once considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Latin America. Over the past decade, Lima has been transformed to recapture its colonial history and charm. The three most popular areas are Downtown Lima, Miraflores and Barranco. Downtown Lima is where the Main Square is located, which includes the historical Presidential Palace, the monastery Santo Domingo and the 16th Century Cathedral. This square is the cornerstone of Lima’s foundation, from where avenues expanded and enhanced the growth of the city. The suburbs of Miraflores and Barranco are the focus of Lima’s action, nightlife and fine shopping. This gastronomic destination also features exceptional restaurants and fascinating museums, dedicated to archaeology, history and chocolate production.

City & Culinary Tour

Today, you will enjoy one of the most exciting and hands on ways to get to know the city of Lima! Savor the food, chat with real limeños and visiting the top restaurants, districts and historical points, that the locals prefer, for a more dynamic and unique experience. This tour has been designed as an ideal introduction to the city and Peruvian culture, so that you can get a real feel for it in only 5 hours.

Your adventure begins at a local roastery, where they hand-pick the coffee beans daily, for an organic Peruvian coffee treat. You will also tour the colonial streets of the bohemian district, Barranco, home to artists, musicians and the city’s top art galleries. From here, you will visit a traditional market in the San Isidro district to try exotic fruits, local products and learn the ancient myths and legends associated with them. The third stop is one of the city’s top seafood restaurants (cebichería), Embarcadero 41 Fusión, on Avenida La Mar in the Miraflores district – a stop that most travelers to Lima won't know to come by.

You will discover the secrets to the perfect Ceviche and Pisco Sour, as you prepare the dish and cocktail yourself, with the head chef and bartender. The last stop will be for lunch at la Huaca Pucllana, a restaurant within a pre-Incan archaeological complex – undoubtedly a highlight of tourism in Lima. This prestigious restaurant is so impressive that the King of Spain, Mick Jagger, Bill and Hillary Clinton, just to name a few, have made sure not to miss it during their trips to Lima. You will enjoy a variety of gourmet Peruvian dishes as well as four different desserts and another pisco-based cocktail. (This service is on a private basis.)

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to your accommodations in 4:00PM. (This service is on a private basis.)

Arequipa

Arequipa is Peru's second largest city, with a population of about 620,000. Characterized by beautiful Baroque churches and charming colonial buildings, this holy city features a sea of white. From the vistas of sandy rolling hills in the distance, to the bright shimmering structures in the city center, the shades of white are enchanting. The snow capped volcano of El Misti soars above the central Plaza de Armas, which is bordered by the twin spires of the Cathedral and two levels of double arcades. Extending from the central plaza, are streets laid out in a grid like pattern, making the city idyllic to explore on foot.

Colca Canyon Introduction

Today, you will be whisked away on a three day adventure through the scenic Colca Canyon! Your journey begins with a drive along the Yura's highway, with the chance to admire the snow-capped mountain Chachani towards Pampa Cañahuas, the Reserve of White Wash and Salt Mines. During this picturesque ride, keep your eyes out for the local wildlife, including the vicuñas, alpacas, llamas and numerous migratory birds soaring through the sky. You will continue on this same road, making stops en route to visit the towns of Chuccura and Patapampa. Upon arrival in the town of Chivay, you can enjoy some free time to relax and have lunch, before checking into your hotel. Unpack your things, get settled and enjoy the rest of the evening as you wish. A delicious dinner will be served later tonight, followed by a lovely night's rest.

Condors, Canyon and Culture

Wake up this morning in awe of the incredible views of the surrounding landscapes. You will depart from your hotel and head to the Cross of the Condor Viewing Point, where today's excursion begins. Here, you will have the opportunity to observe one of the deepest canyons in the world, as well as the impressive flight of the Condors. Watching these majestic birds soar above the deep mountain crevasses is truly a sight you will never forget. Following this exhilarating experience, you will return to Chivay in time to enjoy a traditional lunch.

Later this afternoon, you will visit Cabanaconde, where the local people produce corn. You will learn all about their production processes and techniques, before continuing your exploration to the rural villages of Macca and Yanque. You will also have a chance to visit the beautiful churches of the Colony’s time. Stop at the Mirador from Antahuilque, for one final exploration, before transferring back to your hotel for dinner and relaxation.

Rural Village Visits

Make the most of your final day in the stunning Colca Canyon region, with visits to the fascinating villages of Coporaque, Chinina, Ichupamp and Uyu Uyu. Heading this far off the beaten path will be a truly special Peruvian experience, not had by many travelers. The friendly locals offer their hospitality and generosity, as they welcome you into their home and share their day to day life. As the afternoon arrives, it will unfortunately be time to say goodbye to this beautiful area and continue your adventure onward. Continue your adventure to Lake Titicaca.

Lake Titicaca Arrival

Upon arrival, you will check into the Titilaka Boutique Hotel. This will make for a seamless and exciting start to your Lake Titicaca adventure! Your scenic drive will take you through Juliaca and the port city of Puno. When you have reached the Lodge, check into your room, make yourself at home and admire the surrounding views, as you adjust to this beautiful destination.

Today's lunch will be served from 12:30 to 3:00 PM and the delicious dishes will be based on the region’s local cuisine. After some more time to relax or explore on your own, you can enjoy tea time at 3:30 PM, followed by an afternoon excursion in the area. Perhaps, you may be interested in hopping in a boat and rowing through the reeds near the lodge, where you can observe interesting endemic birds and striking landscapes of the area's unique geography. Evening cocktails will be served from 6:30 PM tonight, followed by dinner from 7:30 to 9:30 PM. After dinner, you are encouraged to mingle with the other guests and interpreters to share your experiences and stories. (This service is on a group basis.)

Lake Titicaca Exploration

Wake up this morning at your leisure and indulge in breakfast in bed as you enjoy a magnificent sunrise, if you wish. Once you are up and ready to go this morning, your guides will take you by car and boat to visit the legendary islands of Uros and meet one of traditional local families that live there. This fascinating cultural experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

The Uros Floating Islands are located near the protected National Reserve of Titicaca. The people of Uros are a proud culture who, due to persecution by other groups, found refuge by living on manmade islands many years ago. They call themselves kot-suña or, "people of the lake", who claim to have "black blood", as they are immune to the cold and consider themselves to be owners of the lake and its waters. During this excursion, you will learn all about their history, uses for totora reeds and custom traditions. You will also have plenty of time to explore one of these impressive islands. This fascinating region is a must for travelers to the area, so you can expect to see many other visitors in the region.

Return to the lodge this afternoon for a delicious lunch and relaxing siesta. Following tea time, you can bike the fields of Plateria. This biking excursion will quickly become one of your favorite cycling memories. The fields of Plateria, the district where Titilaka is located, provide the perfect setting for active exploration. Follow country roads along the grand lake and diverse terrains, where you will observe the local villager’s rural way of life. You will see those washing clothes, herding their animals and tending to their children. These are conditions for a great adventure outdoors, you set the pace and direction, but make sure to head back to the lodge by 6:30 PM in time for cocktails and dinner! (This service is on a group basis.)

Lake Titicaca Departure

After breakfast this morning, it will sadly be time to check out of the lodge and transfer to the train station. Depending on the train schedule you may like to enjoy one last adventure en route to town, with a guided excursion to Sillustani. This is a spectacular peninsula facing the Umayo lagoon and home to the area’s best preserved remains. In addition to its unique geography, this site was a burial ground for the Pucara, Tiahuanaco and Ccolla pre-Inca cultures, long before the Inca expansion. The tower-like structures known as Chullpas, which symbolized life and birth, are ancient and impressive tombs for chiefs and other dignitaries. This is an impressive site that combines archaeology, history and an amazing landscape.

Following your final exploration in Lake Titicaca, you will bid farewell from the train station for your adventure to Cusco. (This service is on a group basis.)

On arrival at the train station, you will board the luxury all-day train from Puno across the high plains to Cusco. This is one of the “Great Train journeys of the World”. The waiter service and entertainment is everything you would expect of the ‘Orient Express’ service. On arrival in Cusco, a private vehicle will pick you up from the train station and transfer you to your hotel for your stay.

Cusco

Cusco is a beautiful city with well preserved colonial architecture, evidence of a rich and complex history. The city itself represents the center of indigenous Quechua culture in the Andes, and by merely walking the streets one sees the layers of history. Spanish colonial buildings erected directly atop Inca walls line the square, while the modern tourist nightlife flourishes in their midst. The city is surrounded by a number of ruins, the most impressive being Sacsayhuaman, the site of the 1536 battle in which dozens of Pizarro's men charged uphill to battle the forces of the Inca. Nowadays, Cusco is known for its indigenous population--often seen on the streets in traditional clothing--and its substantial tourist-fueled night life.

City Tour & Local Ruins

The city of Cusco itself, represents the center of indigenous Quechua culture in the Andes, and by merely walking the streets, you will be able to see the layers of history. Spanish colonial buildings erected directly atop Inca walls line the square, while the modern tourist nightlife flourishes in their midst. Nowadays, Cusco is known for its indigenous population--often seen on the streets in the traditional clothing.

Your excursion will then take you out of Cusco, to visit the main Inca ruins in the Cusco valley. This will include stops at Tambo Machay, Puca Pucara, Kenko, Sacsayhuaman and some lesser known ruins as well. These impressive sites serve as a great introduction to Inca history, and by walking around them, you will continue to acclimate to the high altitude of Peru. After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel with the remainder of your day to enjoy at leisure. (This service is on a private basis.)

Pisac Market & Ollantaytambo Ruins

This morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and taken on a full day private discovery of the famous Pisac Market and Ollantaytambo Fortress. This tour includes lunch at a desirable local restaurant, that serves some of the most delicious traditional dishes.

The Sacred Valley of Peru is comprised of the land that extends between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. What was once the heart of the Inca Empire, this region of rolling Andes can be found just 10 miles outside of Cusco. An exploration of this area showcases fascinating Inca ruins, breathtaking mountain scenery, charming rural towns and a pleasant climate. At the end of your tour, you will be transferred to your new hotel in the Sacred Valley, to spend the rest of the day as you desire. (This service is on a private basis.)

Maras & Moray Exploration

Today, you will be whisked away on a half day private tour of Maras & Moray. This excursion begins with a visit to the famous circular ruins of Moray. Your expert guide will teach you all about the extraordinary history behind this attraction, as you explore the fascinating ruins at your own pace. Moray is believed to have been an Incan agricultural center, that was once used to improve high altitude crops. This would have been an essential commodity for the massive Incan armies and road building teams, that supported the empire.

After visiting Moray, your adventure continues to the ancient town of Maras, characterized by beautiful Spanish decor and a central church. On the journey back down to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you will visit some of the area's most famous salt pans. Covering entire hillsides, this iconic pattern of pans is impressive, to say the least. At the end of your tour, you will be driven the rest of the way to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Machu Picchu Full Day Tour

Enjoy an early morning visit to the fabled ruins, spending today in both guided and individual exploration. Take your time to investigate the multitude of hidden nooks and corners, as you discover the most fascinating features of this astounding and mysterious Inca settlement. Just when you think you've seen it all, turn the corner and let another perspective of the ancient ruins and pristine landscape captivate you.

After an overwhelming adventure of this glorious monument to the Inca achievement, a delicious lunch will be served at the famed Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, before taking the return shuttle down to Machu Picchu Pueblo. Back in town, you will get settled into your cozy hotel, where dinner will be served on property for you later this evening. (This service is on a private basis.)

Second Visit to Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu Trek

Machu Picchu is calling! Return to this enchanting attraction this morning, to continue exploring on your own. Delve deeper into features of the ruins that you have not yet discovered. Unlike your touring experience from yesterday, today's adventure also includes a permit to hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu! Although this grueling trek is up a series of sheer and challenging steps, the view from the top promises to make every bit of hard work beyond worth it!

At the end of this unforgettable experience, you will ride the shuttle bus back down to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you will board the Vistadome Train. Upon arrival at the train station, you will be welcomed by a driver and transferred to your hotel.

Amazon Arrival & Twilight River Excursion

Upon arrival at the Puerto Maldonado Airport, you will be met by an Inkaterra representative and transferred to the boarding wharf. Begin to experience the enchantment of the rainforest, as you take a 45-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to arrive at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica lodge. After a short briefing, settle into your beautiful cabaña and enjoy your lunch in the dining room. Take a siesta if you wish, followed by a refreshing tea to get ready for the afternoon excursion.

Take a look at your Inkaterra Explorer Guide, to choose from the various excursions available at the lodge. On your first day, we recommend a guided walk along the Trail system, into the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica natural area, where you will discover the Amazon Basin. This trail offers an excellent introduction to the jungle environment, winding past impressive trees such as the Shihuahuaco, and the strangely beautiful strangler fig, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and observing exotic insects.

For the afternoon, we recommend a guided boat ride on the Madre de Dios river. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness the transformation from a diurnal to a nocturnal world. Animals and birds of the daytime give way to species specially adapted to the night. As you are immersed into their paradise, you will learn about their habits, as you search for nightjars, owls, capybaras and big caimans.Enjoy dinner back at the lodge tonight, served in the main dining room from 7:30 to 9:30 PM. After dinner, you may retire early to your own cabaña, or join your fellow explorers to discuss your experience in the rainforest, as you listen to the intriguing sounds of the jungle at night. (This service is on a group basis.)

Lake Sandoval, Tambopata National Reserve, & Inkaterra Canopy Walkway

Rise early or sleep in late this morning — the choice is yours. A full buffet breakfast begins at 5:30 AM, for those who want to avoid the heat and enjoy nature at its fullest, but continues until 9:30 AM, for those wanting to sleep in. Following breakfast, you may wish to embark on the Lake Sandoval excursion into the Tambopata National Reserve. Glide in a wooden canoe, across a beautiful, mirror-like oxbow lake that is home to the endangered giant river otter, as well as red howler monkeys, red-bellied macaws, anacondas, side-neck turtles and black caimans. At lunch time, you will head back to the lodge for some relaxation and reminiscing on your morning adventure.

In the afternoon, consider exploring the remarkable Inkaterra Canopy Walkway and Anaconda Walk. Ascending the first tower, 29 meters above the forest ground, you begin your encounter with the treetop realm. For more than a quarter of a mile, you will literally walk through the rainforest canopy on a suspension bridge network, linking eight observation platforms. During this 1.5 hour expedition, be on the lookout for bright toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, monkeys and the three-toed sloth. If you wish, you may extend the experience to marvel at the sunset from one of the towers. After you descend from the Canopy, venture onto the Anaconda Walk for about 30 minutes along the 200-meter wooden bridge over the Aguajales swamps. In this lush eco system, you may observe the various species of amphibians, birds, mammals, abundant flora, trees and even the snakes of this flooded marshland. The walk will finish back at the lodge, where you can enjoy the daily nature presentation in the Eco Center, before a delicious dinner at 7:30 PM. (This service is on a group basis.)

Amazon Departure

Sadly, the time has come to say goodbye to the colorful Amazon! This morning, you will be transferred back to the Puerto Maldonado Airport in good time to board your departing flight. (This service is on a group basis.)