Magical Andes

Arrive in Lima and transfer to selected hotel. Founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizzaro, this “City of Kings” is a mélange of colonial structures, pre-Columbian sites, and modern conveniences. (No Meals)

This morning explore the pre-Hispanic, colonial and modern highlights of Lima, visiting Huaca Pucllana or Huaca Huallamarca, pre-Colombian sites; the Plaza Mayor, which is the birthplace of the city of Lima, the beautiful Cathedral, built in the 16th century; and the masterpiece of San Francisco Monastery. Spend time exploring the Larco Museum, one of the city’s best museums for pre-Columbian artifacts. (Breakfast)

Transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Arequipa, also known as The White City for its beautiful white walls made of ashlar, and transfer to selected hotel.  In the afternoon enjoy a Arequipa city tour, including the main square to visit the Cathedral, the   church of the Society of Jesus and the beautiful Santa Catalina convent, the gem of Arequipa, which dates from the 16th century, and finally, under special request at an additional cost, the Santuario Museum, to see Mummy Juanita recently discovered in the summit of Ampato Glacier. (Breakfast)

In the morning, see what lies in Arequipa’s countryside, visit the Sabandia Mill; tour the Founder’s Mansion, and enjoy a wonderful panoramic view from Sachaca. In the afternoon, we suggest to stroll through the bustling Plaza de Armas in the heart of Arequipa with its narrow and very picturesque streets; or just sit and sip a coca tea in one of the cafes on the balconies overlooking the Plaza de Armas. (Breakfast)

Drive into the Andes towards Colca Canyon (approx 4 hours, partly on unpaved roads, with stops en route), a stunning natural wonder that’s twice as deep as the USA’s Grand Canyon. The scenery is breathtaking, with the terraces of the Colca valley and herds of llamas scattered around Reserva Salinas y Aguada Blanca. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Early morning excursion to Condor’s Cross, where magnificent condors can be seen flying over the canyon. Visit the town of Chivay, and travel by road in tourist bus to Puno and Lake Titicaca, approximately 8 hours including stops (private transfer can be arranged at an additional cost). Along the way, you will be able to appreciate the scenic beauty of the Andes as you pass by lakes, lagoons, trout farms and Andean flamingos. (Breakfast)

Full-day tour of the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island, both in Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world! You’ll stop for a visit at Uros Floating Islands, a stunning collection of man-made islands created from the lake’s reeds, which dates from pre-Hispanic times. We’ll have time here to meet some members of this traditional community who live on the islands. Later, you will visit Taquile Island to learn more about local customs and culture, while enjoying a homemade lunch with the community members. (Breakfast, Lunch)

This journey, a unique and wonderful combination of culture and adventure, has been designed for you to enjoy the wonders of our country and discover the history of each place in comfort and style. Peru is a land of mysterious lost cities, the jagged snow-capped peaks of the Andes mountains, valleys lined with terraces, and colorful Indian markets. You will admire the colonial sightlines of Lima; delight with the beauty of Arequipa; enjoy an impressive outdoor paradise full of condors in the deepness of Colca Canyon; cruise the mythical and sacred Lake Titicaca; discover the historic legacy and treasures of Cusco; explore the colorful Sacred Valley of the Incas; and finally admire the unique splendor of Machu Picchu.

Morning at your own leisure for relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere in its many squares and picturesque streets, or shopping traditional Peruvian handicrafts. Afternoon guided city tour of Cusco, including The Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, the extraordinary Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the fascinating Sacsayhuaman National Park, a testament to the Incan architectural skill which is compiled of massive stones. (Breakfast)

In the morning, go off the beaten path and visit the authentic and picturesque villages of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where time seems to stand still. Visit the salt terraces of Maras to see and learn about an ancient pre-Incan method of producing salt. Visit the amazing circular terraces of Moray, an astonishing example of the agricultural skills used as an Incan laboratory to acclimatize crops. Finally visit the town and fortress of Ollantaytambo, an astounding feat of construction and ingenuity which is considered a “Living Inca Town” as it is the only Inca settlement that has been continually inhabited since its inception. (Breakfast, Lunch)

This journey, a unique and wonderful combination of culture and adventure, has been designed for you to enjoy the wonders of our country and discover the history of each place in comfort and style. Peru is a land of mysterious lost cities, the jagged snow-capped peaks of the Andes mountains, valleys lined with terraces, and colorful Indian markets. You will admire the colonial sightlines of Lima; delight with the beauty of Arequipa; enjoy an impressive outdoor paradise full of condors in the deepness of Colca Canyon; cruise the mythical and sacred Lake Titicaca; discover the historic legacy and treasures of Cusco; explore the colorful Sacred Valley of the Incas; and finally admire the unique splendor of Machu Picchu.

Flight back to Lima and connection back home. End of services. (Breakfast)