From the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu to the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, the magical wonders of Peru are waiting behind every corner. Take in Lima and see the historical side of the “City of Kings.” Explore Andean art forms and the local way of life during your stay in the Sacred Valley. Delight in a home-hosted farm-to-table lunch at a local Quechua community. At Machu Picchu, spend a night at the base of the “Lost City of the Incas” and enjoy a culinary demonstration. Explore Cuzco, a city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial influences. Discover the birthplace of the Incan Empire in Puno and Lake Titicaca. Meet the indigenous Uros people of the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. Step into the past as you explore mysterious ancient sites and immerse yourself in the culture as you taste the country’s renowned cuisine.
Must-See Inclusions:
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Culinary Inclusions:
Day: 1 Lima, Peru
Welcome to Peru, one of the treasures of South America. Travel through this intriguing land visiting some of the world’s most legendary sites, including Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas." Arrive late this evening in Lima, the "City of Kings."
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Miraflores
Day: 2 Lima
Discover Lima’s fascinating history during a colonial tour through the historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the artwork at San Francisco Monastery and enter the catacombs. View the elegant Cathedral at Plaza de Armas and visit the Casa de Aliaga – former house of the conquistador Jeronimo de Aliaga y Ramirez – where the energy of colonial and republican Lima comes to life. Get to know your fellow travellers at a welcome dinner featuring artfully crafted Peruvian dishes.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Miraflores
Day: 3 Lima - Cuzco - Sacred Valley
Fly to Cuzco, in the heart of the Inca civilization. Journey through the Andes to the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas, the agricultural centre of their grand empire. While en route to your hotel, explore different towns in the valley, each a representation of the region’s unique culture. After a short lesson on the local language, stop in Pisac village to browse the colourful handicraft market. Settle into your hotel nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley
Day: 4 Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo - Sacred Valley
This morning, visit the spectacular Ollantaytambo ruins, the only Incan settlement that has been continually inhabited since its inception. A uniquely terraced complex topped with carved stone panels, these ruins reflect ancient Incan architecture and heritage. Then, head to the Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio where you’ll get first-hand knowledge of this internationally renowned artist's techniques and designs, inspired by ancient Peruvian cultures. Deep dive into the cultures of modern Andean people and experience an Impact Moment as you mingle with a nearby community. Thanks to their effort and teamwork, tourism has become an additional income to agriculture which has positively impacted their quality of life. You’ll get a true taste of their daily life when participating in small group workshops that teach you traditional methods of growing, harvesting and weaving. Celebrate their culture as you learn their dances and listen to their musical instruments before enjoying a home-hosted farm-to-table lunch featuring local specialties.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley
Day: 5 Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu
Climb aboard your train to Machu Picchu for breathtaking views through panoramic windows as you ride through the Andes to the “Lost City of the Incas.” Hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungle, Machu Picchu is considered the most spectacular sight in South America. Spend the afternoon with your guide uncovering the mysteries of these majestic ruins. Tonight, stay at the base of Machu Picchu for a chance to further soak up its atmosphere. Enjoy an exclusive culinary demonstration and learn how to craft the perfect ceviche and pisco sour before your dinner featuring a Peruvian menu.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
Day: 6 Machu Picchu - Cuzco
This morning, take advantage of free time and explore the local markets in Aguas Calientes on your own, or you may choose to visit Machu Picchu at sunrise. Return to the Sacred Valley by train. Upon arriving in Cuzco, take time to explore the captivating city at your leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Cusco
Day: 7 Cuzco
Start your morning on a tour of Cuzco, visiting the San Pedro Market, the Koricancha temple, the central Plaza de Armas, and the Cuzco Cathedral. Later, it’s your choice! Travel above the city to discover the important sacred Incan ruins of Sacsayhuamán Fortress -OR- embark on a walking tour of San Blas, the traditional old quarter of Cuzco, lined with restaurants and artisan shops. The rest of the afternoon is yours. This evening, dine at your leisure at a local restaurant featuring the local flavours of Cuzco.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Cusco
Day: 8 Cuzco - Puno
Today, fly to Puno, hugging the shores of Lake Titicaca. Known as the birthplace of the Inca Empire, ancient legends say that life began here. Upon arrival, check into your lakeside hotel. Tonight, enjoy an evening at leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: GHL Lago Titicaca
Day: 9 Uros Floating Islands - Lake Titicaca - Chullpas de Sillustan - Puno
Spend today getting to know the locals. Enjoy a morning cruise to the floating islands of the Uros people of Lake Titicaca. Experience walking on the island’s spongy surface made from compacted beds of tortora reeds and meet the locals, learning about their history and lifestyle. Later, cruise to a local rustic village for a home-hosted meal and swap stories with Peruvian families before visiting the mystical Chullpas de Sillustani – an archaeological area boasting 13th-century funerary monuments.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel: GHL Lago Titicaca
Day: 10 Puno - Lima - Tour Ends
As your tour comes to a close, spend the morning relaxing on the shores of Lake Titicaca before flying to Lima. Upon arrival, head to the Larco Museum, a former mansion built on the site of a pre-Columbian temple. The museum offers a collection of over 3,000 years of ceramic, textile, and precious metal artifacts. After this incredible trip through history, your tour concludes with a farewell dinner on the grounds of the museum before departing for Lima’s airport and your connecting flight home.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
"Discover Peru with Donella Chong "
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