Day 1

When you arrive in Lima we’ll be waiting to accompany you to your accommodation, located in the heart of Miraflores.

Day 2

Your day begins with a visit to the historic center of the capital with your expert guide, who will transport you back in time to Lima’s colonial past. In the Plaza de Armas, the main square, marvel at the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima with its stunning chapels. The nearby San Francisco houses catacombs with the remains of over 25 thousand former inhabitants of Lima. Continue to Casa Aliaga, the oldest mansion in the city, still owned by the Aliaga family over 480 years later.

Day 3

This morning take a culinary adventure in the gastronomic paradise that is Lima. Stroll through the bohemian district of Barranco, visit a local market and taste exotic fruits straight from the Amazon, and enjoy a hands-on cocktail class. Conclude your culinary journey with a delectable lunch at Huaca Pucllana, a restaurant situated amidst the archaeological site of a pre-Inca pyramid of the same name.

Day 4

It’s time to head for the Andes, with a flight to the White City of Arequipa, named so for the volcanic sillar rock used in the construction of its beautiful architecture. After settling in, embark on an exploration of the city streets. Stop in at the Andean Sanctuaries Museum to meet Juanita, the sacrificed girl found on the Ampato volcano, and the vast Santa Catalina Monastery, before finishing with spectacular views of the city and the emblematic Misti volcano.

Day 5

Today head into the countryside to explore the historic Sabandia Mill, an iconic watermill dating back to the 18^th century. We’ll also visit the Founder’s Mansion, a colonial mansion built by the founder of Arequipa, Garci Manuel de Carbajal. Returning to the city, experience authentic Arequipeñan cuisine at a traditional picanteria, with dishes such as adobo, chupe de camarones, or ocopa.

Day 6

This morning begin your journey to the Colca Canyon. En route, make a small detour to the Sumbay Caves, a unique archaeological site with prehistoric cave paintings. Marvel at the herds of llamas, alpacas and vicuñas grazing in their natural habitat of the Tocra Pampas as you ascend to the highest pass at Patapampa, before dropping down to your hotel in the heart of Colca.

Day 7

What better way to start your day than watching the magnificent Andean Condor soar through the skies and valleys at Condor’s Cross? We’ll then continue to villages in the area to enjoy the architecture and ways of life, interacting with the friendly locals. Spend the afternoon at the thermal baths of La Calera, a popular spot with hot springs and stunning Andean views.

Day 8

Relax in your comfortable hotel this morning, before your guide and transport whisk you to Puno, the folkloric capital of Peru. On the way, we’ll stop at Lagunillas to take in the beautiful lakes of this corner of the Andes, along with the abundant birdlife including Andean and Chilean Flamingos.

Day 9

Take a comfortable boat ride today on the blue waters of Lake Titicaca. You’ll first visit the artificial islands of Uros, made from totora reeds plucked from these same waters. Learn about the traditions here and perhaps take a ride on a boat made of totora too. You’ll continue to Taquile Island, where Quechua-speaking locals will show you their vibrant customs and textiles. Relax on the boat as you sail back to Puno.

Day 10

This morning embark on a luxurious experience from Puno to Cusco aboard the Titicaca Train. You’ll be welcomed with traditional music before entering stylish carriages for a unique journey through the Peruvian Andes. Enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring Peruvian and international cuisine and take in panoramic views from the observation car while sipping a pisco sour. Don’t miss the stop at the highest pass at La Raya, and seeing the archaeological site of Raqchi, as you make your way to the Imperial City of Cusco.

Day 11

Cusco, the heart of the Incan Empire and historical capital of Peru. Spend the morning wandering quaint cobblestone streets, taking in the astonishing blend of history and culture, from the ancient temple of Q’orikancha and the Cathedral in the main plaza with its Cusquenian take on the Last Supper painting, to the colorful San Pedro central market and the bohemian arts of San Blas. In the afternoon venture to the hills above to explore the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman and nearby ruins, learning their architectural and strategical significance with your guide.

Day 12

We’ll begin our day at the amazing archaeological site of Moray, featuring a series of circular terraces believed to have been an agricultural laboratory for the Incas. Descend and explore the levels and microclimates created by the varying depths here. We continue to Maras where an intricate network of ponds has been used for salt extraction since ancient times up to the present day. After a lunch featuring local flavors, visit a native community and learn the traditional weaving techniques passed down the generations.

Day 13

Time to get our hands dirty, immersing ourselves in a local community and engaging in the local way of life. You’ll take in the daily lives of the residents with an authentic cultural experience. Depending on the season, you might join in with agricultural activities, planting crops, harvesting, or tending to the fields. Or perhaps explore animal husbandry practices, feeding livestock and learning other aspects of care of farm animals. Don’t forget to drop in at the school and meet the kids, proudly showing off their drawings newly learned skills!

Day 14

It’s time to delve deeper into Peru’s delicious culinary delights. With the guidance of an expert chef, you’ll make your way to the local market, taking in the lively atmosphere as you browse the fresh produce and choose the ingredients for your upcoming cooking class. You’ll immerse yourself in the flavors and culinary traditions of Peruvian and Andean cuisine as you prepare specialty dishes and drinks. Best of all, you’ll sit down at the end and enjoy your new creation!

Day 15

This morning we head to Ollantaytambo, to take a scenic train ride from the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes at the foot of Machu Picchu. Enjoy the scenery as the train follows the Vilcanota River into lush cloud-forest. After a bus ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu, enjoy a buffet lunch at the nearby Sanctuary Lodge before entering the citadel. You’ll wind up a gentle path before taking your first views of the breathtaking site. Your guide will share with you the history and significance of the sites within, from the Intihuatana – “hitching post of the sun” – to the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, and Temple of the Condor. Take in a beautiful sunset at our World Wonder before returning to Aguas Calientes for a well-earned dinner and rest.

Day 16

Rise early and return to the sacred site with your knowledgeable guide, ready to brief you more about the ancient ruins and their place in Peruvian – and world – myths and folklore. Absorb the magical energy as you gain insights into the Inca civilization and architectural marvels as you explore them. For a spot of adventure, take one of the limited-entry hikes to reach the higher vantage points for breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel. Finally, descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch before relaxing on the train in your return to Cusco.

Day 17

For your final morning, we’ll head to the studio of a skilled artisan, receiving a warm welcome as you begin an introduction to the world of ceramic pottery. You’ll learn about the different techniques, tools, and styles used in traditional Peruvian pottery, along with the natural products used to make colors and dyes. Create your own masterpiece under the guidance of your master ceramist, applying intricate designs to your piece. After the class take time for a leisurely lunch and some more explorations around the Imperial City, before later taking your flight to Lima in your journey home. ¡Buen viaje!