ITINERARY
DAY 1: LIMA
Welcome to Lima, the ‘city of the Kings’. Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and privately escorted to your hotel to settle in (early check-in is not included).
DAY 2: LIMA
Your sightseeing tour explores the modern districts of Lima and its historic center, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988. As you wander the main plaza and Plaza San Martin it is hard not to wonder about its diverse architecture. Your guide will introduce you to the city’s architectural heritage. You then proceed to Santo Domingo Monastery boasting fine carved choir stalls, the oldest of Lima. It was here that San Marcos University, the first in South America, was founded in 1551. Your next stop is at the Larco Herrera Museum. The collection allows the understanding of 3,000 years of the Peruvian pre-Columbian history in an intuitive way. Its masterpieces are considered worldwide icons of pre-Inca art and have been displayed in the world’s most renowned museums.
DAY 3: LIMA – CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY
At proper time, you will be picked up from your hotel in Lima and privately escorted to the airport for your next flight with destination Cusco.
Suggested Flight (not included): 10:00 Departure from Lima with LA2123 11:20 Arrival in Cusco
Welcome to Cusco. Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and privately escorted to your hotel in the Sacred Valley to rest and slowly acclimatize (approximate duration of the transfer: 2 hours).
DAY 4: SACRED VALLEY
This morning you drive to the charming community of Chinchero. You will join a local weaving family in their courtyard for an overview of the Andean weaving process. Chinchero is renowned for the production of textiles done on backstrap looms. You watch as wool is carded, spun, and dyed and learn about the different techniques used to create belts, ponchos and shawls.
Later you continue to the age-old terraced salt mines in Maras covering the whole of the hill-side. The dominant color is an intense white that burns like snow on a sunny day – an impressive sight for any visitor. Salt was extracted from these mines from Inca times and the same method has been used ever since – all work is done by hand. You then head to Moray. The circular terraces hidden among the hills are similar to a Greek amphitheater. Surrounded by an impressive backdrop of snow covered mountains, Moray was used as an open-air agricultural lab for adapting crops to different environmental conditions.
Enjoy a 3-course gourmet lunch this afternoon at Iskay, located only minutes away from the village center of Maras, idyllically situated on a hill with impressive views over the surrounding valley. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by Tatiana and Jeremy to their lovingly furnished family home which is also the location of this private restaurant. The season and daily harvest, which comes from the restaurant’s own garden and surrounding fields, determine the three-course, delectable menu which is personally created and freshly prepared by the hostess. Lunch (Set menu) includes starter, main dish, dessert, complimentary water and tea.
DAY 5: SACRED VALLEY – AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES
Early this morning, approach the train station located within your hotel to embark on your upcoming railroad journey. In case you choose the boutique properties option, you will have a short vehicle transfer to Urubamba or Ollantaytambo train station (only with Spanish speaking driver).
The train schedule today allows for an exploration of Machu Picchu without the crowds. The ‘Sacred Valley Train’ service, includes a 3-course lunch on board and allows for an arrival at Machu Picchu at a time where most tourists take a break for lunch. Differently from most connections, the PeruRail ‘Sacred Valley Train’ departs at 10:30 from Urubamba and briefly stops at the Belmond Rio Sagrado Hotel before it continues to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy the beautiful landscape along the journey while you sip your welcome drink and enjoy some snacks in the Observation Bar Car. After about 3 hours you will reach Aguas Calientes and start your Machu Picchu exploration.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes you will be greeted by your guide who will assist you onto the shuttle bus to the entrance of the citadel. During your guided tour you will experience the uniqueness of the location and the genius that went into its construction. The duration of your magical trip to one of the seven new wonders of the world will be 2.5 hours, after which you will make your way back out of the citadel with your guide and downwards to your hotel where dinner will be included.
Dinner (A la carte) includes starter, main dish, dessert, coffee and tea/infusion.
DAY 6: AGUAS CALIENTES – OLLANTAYTAMBO/CUSCO
Enjoy a morning at leisure discovering Aguas Calientes and other alternative routes and hikes within Machu Picchu (at an additional cost) or relax and indulge yourself into a treatment at your hotel’s spa (arranged on your own).
Later in the afternoon, return by VISTADOME train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy train. Upon arrival at your chosen train station, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Cusco (only with Spanish speaking driver).
In case you have left any luggage in the hotel in the Sacred Valley, it will be picked up in route or separately.
DAY 7: CUSCO
Your half day sightseeing tour starts with Sacsayhuaman Fortress, the largest and most magnificent work left by the Incas. The massive terrace walls are amongst the largest used in any building in the Americas. The meticulous precision of the rockwork sheds light on the mastery of the Inca stonemasons. Then, you head back to Cusco city. Admire the most impressive example of how Inca and Hispanic cultures fused together at the Koricancha or Sun Temple. Just at walking distance you find the Cathedral dominating the north-east side of Cusco’s main square. One of the most famous paintings and icons within is the ‘Last Supper’ by Quechua artist Marcos Zapata. The 18th century painting symbolizes the blend of indigenous and European cultures. Instead of a lamb on the table you find a guinea pig. Take then a cobblestoned street going up to the traditional artist’s quarter of San Blas. Many of the best craftsmen have their workshops and small galleries in the cobbled, narrow streets. From the main square, take Triunfo Street to Hatunrumiyoc and see its famous twelve-sided stone.
Important Note: This tour may be fixed in morning or afternoon time according to your preference.
DAY 8: CUSCO – BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER – PUNO
At proper time, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transferred to the train station for your upcoming railroad journey.
Be ready for a memorable 3-day train ride aboard South America’s first luxury sleeper trail, the Andean Explorer. This is the longest trip offered by the Andean Explorer and departs from Cusco to cross the Altiplano towards Puno before ending in Arequipa. At 11:00 hrs you get on board in Cusco’s train station. Up to 48 guests can be accommodated in the Belmond Andean Explorer, which offers tasteful, en-suite cabins designed by Inge Moore of The Gallery HBA.
Your first stop is scheduled at the archaeological site of Raqchi. Here you can see the remains of Viracocha Temple featuring large clay walls resting on stone Inca foundations, but also storage buildings and aqueducts. Back on board enjoy excellent views of the Altiplano from the observation car’s open-air deck. Local, fresh, colorful and seasonal ingredients will feature heavily in a menu created by the chefs at Belmond Hotel Monasterio. Lunch, tea time and dinner are included in today’s itinerary and will be served in the train’s two dining cars. When the sun sets the train will reach La Raya Pass. At 4,319 m (14,170 ft) this pass is the highest point of the rail journey and offers magnificent Andes scenery with snow-capped mountains. When night falls, the Lounge Car is the place to get some refreshing drinks as you sit back and contemplate the day. Overnight at Titicaca Station (Puno).
Important Note: Belmond Andean Explorer train departs on its Peruvian Highland 3-day program only on Thursdays.
DAY 9: PUNO
To visitors to Lake Titicaca, a boat trip to the floating islands, a unique tourist destination, is a must. Your 3-day itinerary doesn’t miss the lake’s most popular attraction. These islands, only a 20-minute boat ride from Puno, are made from layers ‘totora’ reeds which provide home, sustenance and transportation for their residents. After a short ride in one of the traditional reed boats you head to Taquile, the weavers’ island. Across the centuries, ‘Taquilenos’ have preserved traditions, such as a communitarian life where everything is shared. Men always seem to be walking around the island knitting the woolen caps they wear. Unlike the traditional circuit you are treated to a lunch in a secluded spot in Collata – a private beach in Taquile. After a performance of a typical dance and a weaving demonstration you get back to Puno station. After a tea time in the station you head back to the train for dinner as it continues to Arequipa. Overnight at Saracocha Station.
DAY 10: PUNO – BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER – COLCA
Breakfast on board and continue your journey to Arequipa. Enjoy the view on the lagoon of Lagunillas (4,450 m/14,600 ft) – an extraordinary setting. Enjoy the spectacular views of a series of small lagoons. Depending on the season, you may spot Andean Flamingos from the distance. A visit to Sumbay Caves, where the Peruvian highlands’ first humans created their rock art is also included in today’s schedule. Those travelers heading to Colca Canyon will disembark before lunch.
Change to your private land vehicle and continue towards Colca valley. On your way you will pass Pampa de Arrieros, Pampa Cañahuas (where we find the Vicuna National Reserve of Aguada Blanca), Vizcachani and Tojra, a good place for spotting Andean birds. The majestic volcanoes Mismi (5,597 m/18,360 ft), Misti (5,825 m/19,110 ft), Chachani (6,075 m/19,930 ft) and the glaciers Ampato (6,288 m/20,630 ft), Sabancaya (5,976 m/19,606 ft) and Hualca Hualca (6,288 m/20,630 ft) provide picturesque panoramic views as you enter the Colca Valley.
Arrive in Chivay, the most important town in the Colca Valley, where you will make a short stop to explore the local market. Afterwards you will continue the journey to your hotel in Yanque where dinner will be included.
Dinner (Set menu) includes starter, main dish, dessert, complimentary water, coffee or tea/infusion
DAY 11: COLCA – AREQUIPA
Early morning drive to the observation point ‘Mirador Cruz del Condor’, located between Maca and Cabanaconde, one of the deepest parts of the canyon. Here, you find the perfect spot to look down 1,200 m (3,937 ft) into the canyon. It’s here that the legendary condor, the bird with the largest wingspan in the world, can be seen rising and circling on the morning thermals, silhouetted against the magnificent backdrop of the mountain scenery. Afterwards you will make some stops in some of the picturesque towns en route to visit their colonial churches.
DAY 12: AREQUIPA
Half day city tour of Arequipa. Because some of the old buildings are made of white volcanic material (sillar) Arequipa is also known as the ‘white city’. You will visit the extraordinary Santa Catalina Convent. This cloister, built in the 16th century, is a huge construction which once served as a town within itself housing 450 nuns. Traditionally, the oldest daughters of Arequipa’s aristocratic families entered the convent in their early teens and spent their lives there, cloistered away. The convent complex has been beautifully refurbished, bringing the past vividly alive once more. After the visit of the convent you will head to the Yanahuara lookout point for a magnificent view of the Misti Volcano and the city.
DAY 13: AREQUIPA – IQUITOS
At proper time, you will be picked up from your hotel in Arequipa and privately escorted to the airport for your upcoming flight (late check-out is not included).
Arequipa – Lima – Iquitos flight
Suggested Flight (not included): 10:00 Departure from Lima with LA2240 12:00 Arrival in Iquitos
Upon arrival at Iquitos Airport, you will get transferred to the city of Nauta, which is around 95 km (60 miles) away, where you will embark on your Amazonian River cruise. Aboard the Delfin III which consists of 22 cabins, you will be introduced to your suite with air-conditioning and floor-to-ceiling windows for stunning views of the passing scenery. The top deck features beautiful indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a sundeck with plunge pool, a spa and gym, and of course the bar. Your guide will give you an overview of the journey’s schedule, activities, route, highlights, wildlife and vegetation to keep your eye out for, geographical and historical background and other useful details before you make your way to the dining room for a spectacular dinner.
DAY 14: IQUITOS
After your first morning’s breakfast, you will begin your skiff exploration along the river as you make your way towards the river bank. You will then take a walk along the Fundo Casual jungle trail which will take you deep into the rainforest on terra firme (non-flooded forest), where your guide will point out the dynamic creatures and vegetation of the Amazon. Be sure to keep an attentive eye open for spotting surprises! In the afternoon, the cruise takes you through the Yanayacu and Pucate Rivers, peeking into different creeks and lagoons. This is one of the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Your guide will use his expert eye to pinpoint all the biodiversity of this region.
You will even have the opportunity to swim in the jungle river alongside the famous pink dolphins. After your onboard dinner, we recommended a visit the third deck where you can enjoy stargazing on clear nights while enjoy the wonderful symphony of the jungle, far away from civilization.
DAY 15: IQUITOS
In the morning, the skiffs skim the Samiria River and its tributaries, where an abundance of wildlife hides in the deep rainforest, including blue and yellow macaws, scarlet macaws, toucans, umbrella birds, and monkeys. After a delicious lunch you will make your way towards the Nauta Caño Creek. You will get to enjoy an exciting activity by fishing for the famous piranha, a delightful and challenging experience you won’t forget! As night approaches, your guide will take you on a night safari in search of caiman alligators and night birds.
DAY 16: IQUITOS – LIMA
With heavy hearts it time to bid farewell to the Delfin III and the staff. You reach the port of Nauta and disembark, you will then take the bus and make your way towards Iquitos. En route you will visit the Rescue and Rehabilitation center of river mammals, where you will have the opportunity to see baby manatees and learn more about these wonderful creatures and why they are listed as endangered species. After this last excursion you will be transferred to the Iquitos airport where your guide will assist you with the check-in for your flight.
Suggested Flight (not included): 12:45 Departure from Iquitos with LA2241 14:24 Arrival in Lima
Airport pick up and transportation to your hotel in Lima
DAY 17: LIMA DEPARTURE
Hotel pick up and transportation to Lima’s airport for you to take your international flight.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- Transfers from / to the airport or train station (escorted or unescorted according to itinerary above)
- Accommodation based on TWIN or DOUBLE in the selected hotel category
- Private services with local English-speaking guides
- Train ticket Urubamba – Machu Picchu in Sacred Valley Train (First Class) without guide on board
- Train ticket Machu Picchu – Ollanta (or Poroy) in Vistadome Class (Superior Class) without guide on board
- Train ticket for the luxurious ‘Andean Explorer’ including excursions with English speaking guide (shared with max. 10 passengers), meals, beverages (non-premium brands) and accommodation in the indicated cabin category.
- Entrance fees to the sites noted in the itinerary (important: the chronological order of visits in the itinerary may change to ensure the best operation)
- Some meals
- Permanent assistance by our Guest Experience Department
- Entrance fees to the sites noted in the itinerary (important: the chronological order of visits in the itinerary may change to ensure the best operation)
- Services in SIC basis (seat in coach – shared with other travelers, with local English/Spanish speaking guide)
- Permanent assistance by our Guest Experience Department
What’s not included:
- International flights
- Tips (for guides, drivers, waiters, luggage porters)
- Beverages during meals (unless specified in the itinerary)
- Early check in / late check out unless explicitly stated
