Upon your arrival you will be meet by our representative at the airport to be transfer to your hotel.

Meals: None

Check in at Hilton Garden Inn Lima Miraflores or similar.

LIMA

Lima, city, capital of Peru. It is the country’s commercial and industrial heart. Lima is located on the south bank of the Rímac River. Its name is a corruption of the Quechua name Rímac, meaning “Talker.”

The city is in the middle of the Peruvian coastal desert a short distance west of the Andes Mountains with an area over 1,506 square miles, a city on the way to 10, 500 million inhabitants an oasis containing more than a quarter of Peru’s population.

Francisco Pizarro knew what he was doing when he founded the city of Lima on January 6th, 1535. This day is celebrated as the Epiphany, or day of the kings. Therefore, Lima is known as the city of kings the Spanish preferred the lowland coast because of the climate and for trade links to Spain It became the most important city in the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru and, after independence, was made the capital of the Republic of Peru.

The city’s historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, due to its large number of historical buildings dating from the Spanish colonial era. Lima as one of the top 10 culinary destinations to visit in 2016, demonstrating Peru’s gastronomic appeal worldwide mentioned by National Geographic.

Larco Herrera Museum and Downtown Lima walking tour.

Since it was established in 1926, the Museo Larco has been acknowledged as a pioneer in terms of public access to its collections. It was one of the first museums in the world to open its storerooms to the public, and to provide online access to its entire collection, encouraging in this way the multidisciplinary research first promoted by its founder, Rafael Larco Hoyle. In 1926, at the age of 25, Rafael Larco Hoyle founded the Museo Larco. With the help of his father, he managed to acquire several archaeological collections from Peru’s northern coast, bringing together some 45,000 pieces.

Faced with the lack of archaeological information of the 1920s, Rafael Larco Hoyle was devoted to the study of ancient Peru. He began his own scientific research and excavated at a number of archaeological sites on Peru’s northern coast. Therefore, he is considered one of the pioneers of Peruvian archaeology.

His investigations led to a series of notable archaeological discoveries, as well as the publication of scientific texts. His stratigraphic studies were important to understand the depth of our pre-Columbian history. In 1946, he presented the first chronological ordering of northern coastal cultures, even before the development of the radiocarbon method of dating.

In 1946, he presented the first chronological ordering of northern coastal cultures, even before the development of the radiocarbon method of dating. That same year, he oversaw and organized the Chiclín Conference on the archaeology of the northern coast of Peru.

The Rafael Larco Hoyle’s greatest legacy is the Museo Larco, which today allows us to connect with the ancient Peru through an extraordinary and comprehensive archaeological collection.

The journey will continue to the walking tour of downtown Lima, The city’s historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988; Glimpses of the Moorish imprint on Spanish colonial architecture can be witnessed on a walk through the colonial city. Most glaringly in the stylised Mudejar influenced covered balconies incorporated into the facades of colorful 17th & 18th century mansions.

The Church and Convent of Saint Francis is a spectacular example of Moorish-inspired Spanish baroque colonial grandeur, with a remarkable library of antique texts but the real highlight is the spooky labyrinth of catacombs underground, underground passages lined with the bones of 25,000 Lima citizens from over 200 years of burials.

Meals: Breakfast

Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Lima Miraflores or similar.

In the morning you will be trasnfer to airport for your flight to Arequipa, once in Arequipa you will be meet at the airport by your local guide, to be transfers to down town Arequipa to check in to your hotel. followed by a orientation walk.

DEPARTURE – Peru Standard Time
Depart from Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chávez (LIM)
SUGGESTED FLIGHT NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chávez (LIM)

ARRIVAL – Peru Standard Time
Arrive at Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP)
Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP)

Meals: Breakfast

Check in at Casa Andina Premium Arequipa or similar.
Casa Andina Premium Arequipa

“Unveiling Arequipa: A Walking Tour Through the White City’s Timeless Treasures”

Experience the charm of Arequipa, known as the White City, on a captivating walking tour that takes you through its most iconic landmarks. Begin your journey at the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a sprawling complex that feels like a city within a city, with its vibrant, narrow streets and beautifully preserved colonial architecture.

Next, delve into the fascinating history of the region at the Museum of the Ice Maiden, where you’ll encounter the perfectly preserved mummy of a young Inca girl, offering a poignant glimpse into ancient Andean rituals.

As you stroll through the city’s historic streets, admire the intricate sillar stonework that gives Arequipa its distinctive white hue, and discover hidden gems in its bustling plazas and charming alleyways, all while soaking in the rich cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Meals: Breakfast

Hotel Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
Casa Andina Premium Arequipa

“From Andean Peaks to Calera Springs: A Journey Through Arequipa’s Majestic Landscapes”

Start your day in Arequipa, nestled between the majestic Andes and the arid expanse of the northern Atacama Desert.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the stunning landscapes of the Aguada Blanca and Salinas National Reserve, where you’ll have the chance to spot wild vicuñas roaming freely in their natural habitat.

As you ascend to the breathtaking Apacheta Pass, at 4,900 meters above sea level, take in the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and expansive valleys below. Descend into the picturesque Colca Valley, where ancient terraces and traditional villages dot the landscape.

After checking into your hotel, unwind at the Calera Hot Springs, where you can soak in the soothing thermal waters, surrounded by the serene beauty of the valley—a perfect end to a day of exploration and adventure.

Vicuñas Andean Camelids, Aguadas Blancas National Reserve

The vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) is a wild South American camelid, closely related to the domesticated alpaca and llama. It is renowned for its incredibly fine wool, which is one of the most luxurious natural fibers in the world.

Habitat and Range

Habitat: Vicuñas are primarily found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes, ranging from Peru and Bolivia to Argentina, Chile, and Ecuador. They thrive at elevations between 3,200 to 4,800 meters (10,500 to 15,700 feet) above sea level.

Environment: Vicuñas inhabit arid and semi-arid grasslands known as puna, where the temperature can fluctuate dramatically between day and night. They are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of these high-altitude environments.

Physical Characteristics

Size: Vicuñas are the smallest of the South American camelids, standing about 80 to 100 centimeters (31 to 39 inches) at the shoulder and weighing between 40 to 50 kilograms (88 to 110 pounds).

Wool: The wool of the vicuña is exceptionally fine, with fibers measuring about 12 microns in diameter. This makes it one of the softest and most valuable animal fibers in the world. Vicuña wool is also highly insulating, helping the animal to survive the cold Andean nights.

Appearance: Vicuñas have a light brown to reddish-brown coat on their upper body, with white or cream-colored underparts. They have large, dark eyes, and long, slender necks that give them an elegant appearance.

Behavior and Ecology

Social Structure: Vicuñas live in small family groups consisting of a dominant male, several females, and their offspring. The male defends the territory and the group, while the females and young graze within the territory.

Diet: Vicuñas are herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses and other vegetation found in the high-altitude puna. They have specialized teeth that continue to grow throughout their lives, allowing them to graze on the tough, low-lying grasses of their habitat.

Water Conservation: Vicuñas are well-adapted to their arid environment. They have a unique ability to extract moisture from the plants they eat, allowing them to survive in areas where water is scarce.

Conservation and Significance

Conservation Status: Vicuñas were once on the brink of extinction due to overhunting for their valuable wool. By the mid-20th century, their population had dwindled to a few thousand individuals. However, thanks to concerted conservation efforts, including legal protections and sustainable wool harvesting practices, their numbers have rebounded. Today, the vicuña is listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, although they are still protected by law.

Cultural Importance: Vicuñas hold significant cultural value in Andean societies. They were revered by the Inca civilization, who considered them sacred animals. The Inca nobility was the only group allowed to wear clothing made from vicuña wool, underscoring its prestige.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Wool Harvesting: Vicuña wool is harvested through a traditional practice known as chaccu, where the animals are rounded up, shorn, and then released back into the wild. This method is sustainable and ensures that the animals are not harmed. A single vicuña produces only about 200 grams (7 ounces) of wool every two years, contributing to its high value.

Ecological Role: As grazers, vicuñas play an important role in their ecosystem. Their grazing habits help maintain the puna grasslands, which are vital for the overall health of the high-altitude Andean environment.

The vicuña is a remarkable example of nature’s ability to adapt to extreme conditions, and its conservation success story demonstrates the power of sustainable practices and international cooperation in protecting vulnerable species.

Lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Check in at Aranwa Pueblito encantado del Colca or similar.
Aranwa Pueblito encantado del Colca

Check out at Aranwa Pueblito encantado del Colca
Aranwa Pueblito encantado del Colca

“Journey Through Andean Wonders: From Vibrant Villages to Majestic Canyons and Serene Altiplano”

Your adventure begins early as you journey through vibrant colonial villages, where colorful facades and traditional Andean culture greet you at every turn the valley is covered with hundreds of Inka and Pre Inka farming terraces.

The highlight of the day is an exhilarating hike along one of the world’s deepest canyons, by Cruz del condor, where you’ll search for the majestic Andean condors soaring above and spot other high-altitude birds in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, the journey continues as you travel towards Lake Titicaca, winding through high mountain passes and across the expansive Andean altiplano.

Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the sight of flamingos gracefully wading in serene lagoons, and herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully in the high Andean swamps. It’s a long day of travel, but the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters make every moment worth it.

Andean Condor (Vultur Gryphus)

Habitat: The Andean condor is native to South America and is found along the Andes mountain range, from Venezuela and Colombia in the north to the southernmost tip of Chile and Argentina.

Size: It is one of the largest flying birds, with a wingspan reaching up to 10.5 feet (3.2 meters) and a weight of around 20 to 33 pounds (9 to 15 kilograms).

Lifespan: Andean condors can live up to 50 years in the wild and even longer in captivity.

Diet: They are scavengers, primarily feeding on carrion. Their diet includes the carcasses of large animals such as cattle, deer, and sometimes marine mammals.

Behavior: These birds are known for their soaring ability, often gliding effortlessly on thermal updrafts for hours with minimal wing flapping. This energy-efficient flight is crucial for their scavenging lifestyle, as they often cover vast distances in search of food.

Reproduction: Andean condors are monogamous and typically lay one egg every two years. The egg is incubated by both parents and hatches after about 54 to 58 days.

Condors are remarkable examples of nature’s adaptability and the challenges faced by large scavengers in modern ecosystems. Their conservation is critical, not only for the preservation of the species but also for maintaining the ecological balance in their respective habitats.

Meals: Breakfast

Check in at Casa Andina Premium Puno or Similar.
Casa Andina Premium Puno

Today will have an unforgettable journey across the crystal waters of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Your adventure begins with a visit to the extraordinary floating islands of Uros, where you’ll witness a unique way of life preserved by Aymara indigenous communities who have lived here for centuries with a simple style of life.

From there, we’ll navigate to the picturesque Taquile Island, where you’ll stroll along ancient Inca and pre-Inca farming terraces, marveling at the timeless beauty of the landscape, with the locals that weave their own attire, their attire is protected by UNESCO.

As the day draws to a close, from the boat you’ll be captivated by a breathtaking sunset that paints the lake and sky in vibrant hues.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel Casa Andina Premium Puno or similar.
Casa Andina Premium Puno

Sillustani Inka Burial site, Pukara and Ayaviri

Today will embark one last time across of the second largest high plateau after the Tibetan plateau, a high plateau with unique archeological sites, such as Sillustani, Pukara with mistirious history, a colourfull drive across high adean villages with an attire that reflects their tradition.

Sillustani

Perched on the windswept shores of Lake Umayo, near Lake Titicaca, the Sillustani burial site stands as one of the most enigmatic pre-Columbian necropolises in the Andes. These towering chullpas, cylindrical funerary towers built by the Kolla civilization (a subgroup of the Aymara people) before being later adopted by the Inkas, serve as monumental tombs for the elite.

Archaeological excavations have revealed skeletal remains positioned in fetal-like postures, accompanied by fine ceramics, textiles, and metal offerings, suggesting beliefs in an afterlife where the deceased required provisions for their journey. The precision of the stonework, particularly in the later Inka-modified chullpas, reflects sophisticated masonry techniques rivaling those of Cusco.

Myths surrounding Sillustani speak of a lost, mystical connection between the builders and celestial forces, with some locals believing the site was constructed by giants or even extraterrestrial beings due to the perfection of its stonework. Others claim that the chullpas emit strange energies at night, reinforcing the idea that Sillustani was not merely a cemetery but a sacred axis between life, death, and the cosmos.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Check in at Wilkamayu Hotel or similar.
Wilkamayu Hotel

Check out from Wilkamayu Hotel
Wilkamayu Hotel

A early morning start before the crowds, will drive down the valley to later take a tributary sceninc valley up to rainbown mountain, will drive as high as 4,715 meters, where we start our hike to the view point located at 4,990 meters, from where we enjoy the magnificent views of Rainbow Mountain.

Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, located in the Vilcanota Range is a striking example of natural geological processes. The mountain’s vibrant colors are the result of mineralogical composition laid down over millions of years. These sedimentary layers were deposited by shifting oceans, rivers, and wind patterns, each contributing to the distinct hues seen today.

The mountain’s reds, yellows, and greens are primarily due to the presence of iron oxide, copper sulfate, and other minerals. Tectonic activity uplifted these layers, and erosion subsequently exposed them, creating the stunning stratified patterns. Rainbow Mountain is a testament to the dynamic processes of Earth’s crust, where time, pressure, and environmental conditions converge to produce a natural wonder.

After we enjoy the mountain will return to our coach to drive to Cusco, with some sceninc stops along the road.

Late afternoon arrive to Cusco.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Check in at Novotel Cusco or similar.

A cosmopolitan city with over 400 thousand inhabitants, located on the eastern side of the Andes at almost 11,000 ft. above sea level and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities, it has a complex history, woven with significant events and legends.

It’s an urban center created by the Incas, then added onto by the conquering Spaniards, who built Baroque churches and palaces throughout the ancient city, leaving its foundation intact. Much of its highly crafted early stone architecture is preserved in the ground floors of colonial and modern structures.

Known as the home and residence of gods and the spiritual and political capital of the Incan Empire, it is a city built in the shape of a puma that can only be seen from the air. You will walk through Incan streets that are illuminated by the sun every winter solstice, and experience some of the most important Incan and Spanish religious sites, such as Qorikancha, also known as the Golden Enclosure, which displays a sophisticated stone construction technology, and Cusco Cathedral, which is still in use today and contains an art gallery consisting of 17th-century canvasses in the Cusco School of painting, with a special highlight consisting of ‘The Last Supper’ featuring a guinea pig.

You will have the rest of the day to support the local economy at the unique galleries or at the handicraft markets. In the afternoon will explore an Incan fortress 400 ft./120m above the city of Cusco. The site was built with massive boulders, some of which weigh more than 100 tons.

Interestingly, the Spaniards did not believe that such monolithic stones could be moved by human beings and they attributed Sacsayhuaman’s construction to the mythical Cyclops. Thus, this type of architecture is known as the “Cyclopean Inca style”.

Meals: Breakfast

Hotel Novotel Cusco or similar.
Novotel Cusco

Chinchero, Moray and Salt Mines.

Drive up to Chinchero to the land of the rainbow, to 12,000ft. for a short hike on a Inka Trail leading to a very chic Inka palace with a 17th century baroque style catholic church built on the top, for interaction with weavers, we will explore the colorful and striking aspects of weaving in Chinchero and learn about textiles in the Andes where you can put hands on the back-strap loom or on any stage of the weaving process.

Moray

This unique archaeological site is one of the best examples—along with Machu Picchu—of what might be called extreme Inca landscaping. Three enormous pits, each with beautifully curved sides that staircase down like the interiors of titanic flowerpots, have been carved out of the earth to depths of up to 100 feet and more. Air temperatures between the top and bottom layers can differ by more than 20 degrees, which has led some researchers to theorize that Moray was an Inca agricultural site where experiments on crops were conducted.

A hike by the Salt Mine of Maras. Is a complex network of nearly 3000 salt pans, shallow pools that are filed by a hypersaline underground spring, developed from before the Inkas time.

Lunch and dinner at your own expense.

Check in at El Albergue De Ollantaytambo or similar.
El Albergue De Ollantaytambo

Before the crowds arrive will tour Ollantaytambo, setting of a famous forbidden love. We will walk through the marvels of this superbly preserved Inka town named in honor of an Inka warrior called Ollantay, who was deeply in love with Kusi Qoyllur, the forbidden and “high maintenance” daughter of the king, Inka Pachacutec.

This love affair gave the king a lot of headaches! The unique Sun Temple was under refurbishing with 50 tons of pink granite boulders on the top of the mountain, an exquisite example of Inka stonework that was almost finished when work was interrupted by the Spaniards’ guns, germs and steel.

During the years of the Spanish conquest, Manco Inka defeated the Spaniards several times in this town, which provides us with a fine example of how Inka towns were laid out for defense and safety. That is why Ollantaytambo is known as an Inka fortress.

Pisac archeological site.

After one hour drive along the sacred valley to a classic Inka ruin, we will explore the site with a hike along an Inka Trail on the ridge of a rocky gorge with vertical wall that houses Inka burial sites on its sheer face, covered with lots of Andean flora. You will have a good chance to see the giant Andean hummingbirds (21cm or 8in), along with well-preserved Inka farming terraces with their hanging stairs, Inka “condos” on its hill sides, Sun Temple surrounded by awesome views.

Hotel El Albergue De Ollantaytambo or similar.
El Albergue De Ollantaytambo

Meals: Breakfast

Check out at El Albergue de Ollantaytambo
El Albergue De Ollantaytambo

DEPARTURE
OLLANTAYTAMBO to CHACHABAMBA

Trek from Chachabamba – Wiñay Huayna – Sun Gate – Machupicchu.

Early morning start, the train follows the dramatic Urubamba river with its striking scenery of white granite cliffs cloaked by the cloud forest full of thousands of orchids, ferns and bromeliads.

The train arrives to KM 104 for a brief stop, where you meet your porter and you check in to the Inka Trail. 

Today we hike a classic Inka trail in the cloud forest, passing through the exceptional ruins of Winay Huayna, through the Sun Gate Pass at 2,750m/9,000f, truly one of the world’s most thrilling viewpoints and the only way to see Machu Picchu in its full glory.

After enjoying the view of Machupichu from the guard house, will take the shuttle bus to the town of Machupicchu to walk to the hotel.

Distance of trek 12 kms.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Check in at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Machupicchu walking tour, following circuit 3

Machu Picchu is the only major Inka site to escape 400 years of looting and destruction by the Spanish conquistadors. For sure, it was not an ordinary Inka settlement; it sat in an inaccessible location high above the Urubamba gorge and had exquisite engineering and architecture.

Was it a spiritual and pilgrimage center located within a sacred geography? Or perhaps a royal retreat for the king, Inka Pachacutec? Or maybe the biggest or the first agricultural research center built by the Inkas?

Hiram Bingham, the man who first revealed it to the world in 1911, was a buccaneering American explorer who show to the world Machupicchu.

Inca Pachacutec was the first to emerge beyond the valley of Cusco towards the cloud forest after his epic victory over the Chancas. He conducted the Tahuantinsuyo expansion and recognized it as the “constructor” of Cusco. This was one of his greatest works.

The origin of Machu Picchu is attributed with some certainty to Pachacutec, embattled president, who was characterized by territorial conquests.

The Inca were brilliant engineers who strove to integrate their architecture with its natural surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast

Check in at Novotel Cusco
Novotel Cusco

Check out at Novotel Cusco
Novotel Cusco

Meals: Breakfast