On this adventure through Peru, colonial cities rub shoulders with Incan ruins and the Amazon’s labyrinthine waterways pulse with life.
Travel from the misty heights of the Sacred Valley to the ancient capital of Cusco, exploring centuries-old Incan villages, traditional markets, agricultural terraces and archaeological sites along the way. Continue aboard a luxurious sleeper to Machu Picchu, journeying through Peru’s lush highlands to the ancient citadel. Sail along the Amazon through Peru’s tangled tropical rainforests, kayaking and swimming alongside pink river dolphins.
From watching the light spill across Machu Picchu’s terraces at dawn to gliding along remote Amazon tributaries, each moment reveals the richness of Peru’s Andean culture and natural diversity.
This itinerary is merely a suggestion to inspire your travels; each and every journey we design is unique, tailor-made from the ground up to ensure a perfect fit.
WHEN TO TRAVEL
May – October
SUGGESTED LENGTH
14 nights
Lima & the Sacred Valley
Begin with a night or two in Peru’s capital and gastronomic powerhouse, Lima, staying at the excellent Hotel B. Explore the city’s vibrant food scene with a visit to a traditional market alongside a local chef before enjoying a private cooking experience, or discover Lima’s contemporary art scene on an art walk through the city.
From here, fly to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a mosaic of peaceful adobe villages, mysterious archeological sites and fertile fields bursting with corn, fruit and flowers, where you’ll be staying at Hotel Sol y Luna. Its traditional casitas are set amidst 10 hectares of flourishing gardens in the province of Urubamba, at an altitude of 2800m; overlooking the valley’s meadows and rolling hills are the dramatic snow-capped mountain ranges of Vilcabamba and Urubamba.
During your time in these ancestral landscapes, explore the ancient local villages and markets, learning about weaving techniques and textile designs with local artisans. At the circular terraces of Moray, you’ll discover ingenious agricultural research methods of the Incas. Head to Maras to explore vast salt flats, breathtaking mountain scenery and attractive stone houses.
Machu Picchu & Cusco
Glide over the Urubamba River and Andean glaciers as you approach the breathtaking Inca ruins of Machu Picchu by train. Wander through temples, terraces and ceremonial spaces while uncovering the history and engineering achievements of the Inca civilisation. More adventurous travellers may choose to hike to the Sun Gate or ascend Huayna Picchu for spectacular views over the ruins and surrounding mountains.
From here, head on to Cusco, the capital of the Incas. Here, you will be able to fully appreciate the mixture of Spanish and prehispanic influences that so define modern day Peru with a tour of the city, including a visit to its legendary Koricancha, the Inca temple once plated in sheets of gold in worship of the God of the Sun.
The Peruvian Amazon
Next, journey deep into the Peruvian Amazon where indigenous villages, immense waterways and exuberant wildlife await. Each day, wake to the hypnotic soundscape of the jungle aboard the Delfin I Amazon riverboat.
Accompanied by expert naturalist guides, venture into unique habitats of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve by skiff, kayak and on foot. Explore palm swamps and hidden lagoons where pygmy marmosets and squirrel monkeys clamber amongst the foliage. Marvel at the contrasting colours of the waters where three distinct rivers meet to form the mighty Amazon.
Along the way, visit remote communities whose lives remain closely connected to the river and gain insight into conservation initiatives working to protect this remarkable ecosystem. Whether swimming alongside pink river dolphins in a secluded creek or fishing for piranha in a pristine lagoon, every day brings new chances to spot the Amazon’s elusive wildlife.
Our Approach
Our journeys are built around people. Over more than two decades travelling across Latin America, we’ve developed relationships with the artists, conservationists, winemakers, guides, hoteliers and local characters who bring a destination to life.
These connections allow us to open doors that rarely appear in guidebooks, whether that’s arranging a stay on a private estate, introducing travellers to a leading contemporary artist or securing access to places that aren’t normally open to visitors.
Every itinerary is designed from scratch, drawing on first-hand knowledge and a trusted network developed over years of exploration throughout the region.
CONTACT US
Tailor-made journeys across Latin America, designed by specialists.
Conde Nast Traveler Specialists every year since 2017
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