Essentials of Peru – 7 Nights / 8 Days

Approximate altitude: 3,399 m

Approximate duration: Half day

After breakfast, board your domestic flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and one of South America’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Cities. Nestled high in the Andes, Cusco is celebrated for its extraordinary blend of finely crafted Inca stonework and elegant Spanish colonial architecture, creating one of Peru’s most fascinating cultural destinations.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, allowing time to gradually acclimatise to the higher altitude. Relax, stay well hydrated and, if you feel comfortable, enjoy a gentle walk through the nearby streets while soaking up the unique atmosphere of this historic Andean city before beginning your exploration of Peru’s extraordinary archaeological treasures.

Overnight at Cusco

Breakfast

Approximate duration: 7–8 hours

Approximate altitude: 3,399 m to 2,871 m

Today introduces you to the remarkable history of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, where beautifully preserved colonial buildings stand upon ancient Inca foundations. Begin your exploration in the Historic Centre of Cusco before visiting the magnificent Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), once the empire’s most sacred temple dedicated to the Sun God. Continue to the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuamán, renowned for its colossal stone walls and extraordinary engineering, before exploring the ceremonial sites of Qenqo and Tambomachay, celebrated for their religious significance and remarkable water channels.

After lunch, continue towards the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, where fertile farmland, picturesque villages and snow-capped Andean peaks create one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes. Along the way, visit Awana Kancha, a traditional Andean textile centre where alpacas, llamas and other native camelids can be seen while local artisans demonstrate centuries-old weaving techniques that continue to preserve Peru’s rich cultural heritage. The valley’s lower altitude provides the ideal setting to continue acclimatising before your visit to Machu Picchu.

Overnight at Urubamba, Sacred Valley

Breakfast

Approximate duration: 8–10 hours including train journey

Approximate altitude: 3,500 m to 2,040 m

Today’s journey is devoted to exploring the extraordinary archaeological treasures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region renowned for its spectacular Andean scenery, fertile valleys and remarkable Inca engineering. Begin your day at the famous Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of terraced salt ponds have continued producing salt using traditional harvesting techniques since Inca times. Continue to the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, believed to have served as an ancient agricultural laboratory where the Incas experimented with crops under different microclimates.

The journey then continues to the magnificent Ollantaytambo Fortress, one of Peru’s best-preserved Inca settlements, celebrated for its impressive temples, ceremonial terraces and narrow stone streets that remain in use today. During the afternoon, board the panoramic Vistadome Observatory Train through the spectacular Urubamba Valley, where winding rivers, cloud forests and towering Andean peaks create one of South America’s most memorable rail journeys. Arrive in Aguas Calientes, the picturesque gateway to the legendary sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Overnight at Aguas Calientes

Breakfast

Approximate duration: Full day

Approximate altitude: 2,430 m

After breakfast, travel by shuttle bus to the legendary Machu Picchu, Peru’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Hidden among the cloud forests of the Andes, this extraordinary 15th-century Inca citadel is renowned for its breathtaking mountain setting, exceptional stone architecture and fascinating history, making it one of the world’s most iconic archaeological destinations.

Accompanied by an experienced guide, explore the sanctuary following Circuit 2A or Circuit 2B, subject to permit availability, with Circuit 3B offered as an alternative if required. Discover beautifully preserved temples, ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces and spectacular panoramic viewpoints while learning about the remarkable engineering, culture and spiritual significance of the Inca civilisation. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, board the panoramic Vistadome Observatory Train through the breathtaking Sacred Valley before transferring to your hotel in Cusco.

Overnight at Cusco

Breakfast

Approximate duration: Full day

Approximate altitude: 5,036 m

Depart early for an unforgettable journey through Peru’s spectacular high-Andean landscapes towards Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), one of the country’s most extraordinary natural attractions. Travelling through remote mountain villages, grazing alpaca pastures and breathtaking alpine scenery, you’ll experience an exciting ATV adventure that significantly reduces the walking distance while allowing you to fully appreciate the dramatic beauty of the surrounding Andes.

A short uphill walk leads to the famous Rainbow Mountain viewpoint, where striking natural bands of red, yellow, green and turquoise minerals create one of Peru’s most photographed landscapes. Spend time admiring the spectacular panoramic views, capturing unforgettable photographs and experiencing the tranquillity of this remarkable high-altitude destination before returning to Cusco in the evening. Due to the elevation, warm clothing, comfortable walking shoes and a moderate level of fitness are recommended for a comfortable experience.

Overnight at Cusco

Breakfast

Approximate duration: Half day

Approximate altitude: 154 m

After breakfast, transfer to Cusco Airport for your domestic flight back to Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital and gateway to the country’s rich colonial heritage. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time before experiencing one of Lima’s most popular evening attractions. From the breathtaking Andes to Peru’s Pacific coastline, today’s journey offers a fascinating contrast between the country’s mountainous interior and its cosmopolitan coastal capital.

During the evening, visit the spectacular Magic Water Circuit (Circuito Mágico del Agua), located within the historic Parque de la Reserva. Featuring thirteen beautifully illuminated fountains, synchronised music, colourful laser displays and impressive multimedia water shows, this award-winning attraction holds the Guinness World Record as the largest fountain complex in a public park. Wander through the illuminated gardens while enjoying one of Lima’s most memorable evening experiences before returning to your hotel.

Overnight at Lima

Breakfast

Approximate duration: 4–5 hours plus airport transfer

Approximate altitude: 154 m

Your Essentials of Peru adventure concludes with a guided exploration of Lima, Peru’s fascinating capital, where centuries of colonial history blend seamlessly with vibrant modern neighbourhoods overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Founded by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima remains one of South America’s most historically significant cities and provides the perfect finale to your unforgettable journey through Peru.

Begin your sightseeing in Lima’s UNESCO-listed Historic Centre, where the magnificent Plaza Mayor forms the historic heart of the city. Admire the impressive Government Palace, the elegant colonial architecture surrounding the main square and the beautiful exterior of Lima Cathedral before continuing to the historic San Francisco Monastery, famous for its remarkable colonial interiors and fascinating catacombs, subject to the day’s operating schedule.

The tour continues to the vibrant coastal district of Miraflores, celebrated for its landscaped parks, spectacular Pacific Ocean views, stylish cafés and lively atmosphere. Following the city tour, transfer to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your onward flight, departing with unforgettable memories of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain and the extraordinary cultural heritage that makes Peru one of South America’s most captivating destinations.

Breakfast