Journey back in time in Cusco, marvel at the ingenuity of the Incas in Machu Picchu, mingle with the indigenous people in the sacred valley, cruise the Amazon River looking for wildlife, and soak up the fantastic city vibe in Lima. Join us in exploring one of South America’s most fascinating countries.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Lima, Peru
The Land of the Incas, home of the Andes Mountains, and the Amazon River… a country of great mystery and intrigue that has beckoned travelers for centuries. Today, you arrive in Lima the second-largest desert city in the world after Cairo. Located on the banks of the Rimac River overlooking the shoreline of the Pacific Ocean, Lima is an amazing study in contrasts.
After arriving in Peru, transfer to our hotel and check-in. Since the jet lag is only one hour from the east coast, after we freshen up, we will begin our tour of Lima. On our tour, we will visit the modern and colonial parts of Lima. The historic center of Lima is called, “The City of Kings,” and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Founded by the Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro in 1535, many of the magnificent colonial buildings located around the Plaza de Armas date to this period. The stunning Baroque Basilica Cathedral of Lima dates to 1535 and was built over the Inca Temple of Puma Inti. The Government Palace is the residence of the President of Peru. The best example of colonial architecture is the Torre Tagle Palace built by the treasurer of the Royal Spanish Fleet. Another gem is the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo founded in 1535 that includes five peaceful cloisters, the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, Chapel of San Martin de Porres, and a library.
After exploring the historical center of Lima, we will head towards modern Miraflores to make a stop at the Parque del Amor, or Park of Love that is well known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss a photo op by the large statue of Andean lovers in an eternal kiss by Peruvian sculptor, Victor Delfin.
This evening, we will get together for a festive Welcome Dinner at Café del Museo Larco and talk about the day’s adventures. (D)
Day 2 - Lima
Today is all about the Peruvian culture and the love of food. There is no better place to explore these two passions than in the cosmopolitan city of Lima, Peru. Today, we will discover the cities culinary scene with an authentic cooking experience. Our day begins by exploring a traditional Lima market accompanied by a chef, that will explain all manner of goodies, exotic fruits, vegetables, fresh fish, and meats that are proudly on display in colorful stands manned by proud Peruvian vendors. After getting the lay of the land at the market, we will head to a venue where we will learn how to prepare a variety of typical mouth-watering Peruvian dishes. At the end of class, we will enjoy the delicious feast we have prepared and talk about how we will impress our friends back home with our newly acquired cooking skills.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to take in the wonders of Lima at your own pace. (B,L)
Day 3 - Lima - Sacred Valley - Cusco
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco* - the gateway to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the world’s most fascinating ancient civilizations.
As we arrive in the Andes Mountains, we meet our local Peruvian guide that will be our escort to the fabled Sacred Valley of the Incas. We will head in the direction of the Maras salt mines, a dream-like place with thousands of salt pans created by a hot spring at the top of the valley. This area produces Maras salt, one of the finest in the world. Our stop at the Raqchi viewpoint offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and gives us an understanding of the unspoiled natural beauty that surrounds us.
The geological features of this valley make it an important center for agriculture, and a strategic place to build temples. Today, indigenous people are proud to share their culture. The next leg of our journey will introduce us to the Misminay, an indigenous community where we will enjoy a glimpse into their way of life. We will enjoy traditional dances, food, and learn about the Andean families’ lifestyle, by sharing some of their daily activities with them. The culmination of the experience is to enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with local products. Afterward, we will continue on to Moray, a fascinating archeological site characterized by deep amphitheater-style terraces. It was created centuries ago as an Incan agricultural research center, where crop experiments were carried out at different heights. The site is very easy to walk around and as you do, you will soak up the energy of this enigmatic place. (B,L)
*Upon arrival, your luggage will be transferred to your hotel. Please do not leave any valuables in your luggage when it is transferred.
Day 4 - Cusco
Set amid the hills in the altiplano, we arrive in the Imperial City of the Incas, Cusco, the center of their vast empire that stretched from Quito in Ecuador to Santiago in Chile. Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most beautiful cities in South America. After the Spanish conquistadores invaded the city, they started to build on top of Inca structures, the experience today is one of a unique blend of Spanish colonial and Inca architecture that can only be seen here. You will walk its streets where time seems to have stopped, where every corner tells a story. You will visit the Koricancha Temple, an ancient Inca palace and center of worship to the Sun God, on which the Dominican order built a church, which remains standing to this day. An unforgettable stop is a visit to the 15th century Sacsayhuaman Fortress, an impressive example of Inca military architecture built of carefully fitted hand-cut boulders. This is the spot where the Incas made their last stand against the Conquistadores.
A little off the beaten path, we will visit the archaeological site called Q’enko, used as a religious spot for the Inca. It is believed that the site was dedicated to funerals and other rituals related to death including sacrifices. When climbing the carved stairs, look for animal shapes carved in the stone, and don’t miss the underground gallery under the great rock.
Our last stop of the day is at the Plaza de Armas (main square), where we will visit the Cathedral, the most important Catholic church in the city. (B)
Optional Activity | Andean Cosmovision at the Planetarium of Cusco
You will live a one-of-a-kind experience at the Planetarium Cusco -located 15 minutes from the city- where you will learn about the important relationship between the Andean man and the cosmos. Thanks to special equipment, a starry sky, and constellation drawings will be projected, which will allow you to see the wonders of the universe up close. Finally, you will go to the exterior of the Planetarium where, if the weather allows it, you will be able to witness “the oldest show in the world”, observing stars and constellations through telescopes and other astronomical observation instruments.
Day 5 - Machu Picchu
The day we have been waiting for has arrived! This morning, we head to the Ollantaytambo station and board the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu where we begin our visit to one of the most important UNESCO destinations in the world: Machu Picchu. This is one of the most amazing architectural and engineering marvels in the world - that was built into a mountainside of staggering immensity. Your excursion starts aboard a train towards the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, and follows a beautiful route through the Urubamba River Valley. The natural beauty of the surroundings makes the train ride the best way to start your visit, and one of the most scenic in the world.
Once you arrive, you will begin the ascent to the ruins. This visit will, without a doubt, be one of your most memorable experiences. After you reach the top, you will take a tour of Machu Picchu and learn the history of this mysterious civilization. And, with amazing scenery all around, you will surely have more than one spectacular photo-op. Then, it’s back to Aguas Calientes to have lunch at a local restaurant. At the end of the day, we will board the train for our return journey to Cusco. (B,L)
Day 6 - Cusco - Amazon Jungle
Peru is a land of many contrasts and environments, we have seen the Pacific Coast in Lima and the majesty of the Andean Mountains in Cusco, and today, after taking a short flight to Puerto Maldonado we will have an adventure in the Amazon rainforest.
After settling into our hotel, we will have a short briefing about the environment before we head out for an on-the-water adventure. We will board a motorized canoe and cruise along the Madre de Dios River, spotting wildlife and village life along the way to Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción (approximately 25 minutes downstream) where we will enjoy a buffet lunch made with organic ingredients and native flavors.
Afterward, our guide will take us for a walk along the Concepción Trail Network where we will learn about the rainforest and its relevance to the ecosystems of the world. At dusk, we will go on a very special twilight river canoe excursion to observe how birds and wildlife change their behavior as night falls. We will learn how to spot a variety of birds, turtles, fish, insects, flora, fauna, and caimans. An added bonus is the spectacular view of the southern constellations. Tonight’s dinner is in the dining room of the Casa Grande where we can share all our experiences of the Amazon. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Amazon Jungle
Your day begins with an excursion to Lake Sandoval in the Tambopata National Reserve. Paddle in a wooden canoe on the lake, home to many endangered species, such as the Giant River Otter, Red Howler Monkeys, Red-bellied Macaw, anacondas and the Yellow-spotted Side neck Turtle. Head back to Inkaterra Amazon Reserve for lunch. In the afternoon the recommendation is to visit the Inkaterra Canopy, a 29 meters tall observation tower where you can see many species that live in the high canopy of the forest. Next you can take the Anaconda Hike, where you will walk for 30 minutes along 200 meters of wooden bridges over the marsh, looking for anacondas. At night you will explore the Amazon rainforest that gives way to nightlife. End your exceptional day with a delicious dinner. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Depart Peru
We will enjoy a full breakfast before departing the Amazon. Then, we enjoy a 45-minute boat ride on the Madre de Dios River back to Puerto Maldonado where we will visit the Butterfly House. Peru has the largest variety of butterflies in the world, with 3,700 known species. Home to hundreds of species of butterflies we will see them in all stages of their life cycle set in amid flowers and trees in a setting of great beauty.
After, say goodbye to the butterflies of the Amazon rainforest and the intriguing culture of the Incas we will transfer to the airport for the flight to Lima. (B)
