Peru's Sacred Cities
From the Lost City of the Incas to Colonial Arequipa
Tour all of Peru's highlights on this adventure! See Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Arequipa, and Colca Canyon on this unforgettable vacation in South America.
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Our Flexible Change Plan is included with this package , allowing you to cancel and rebook at a later date for any reason (even COVID-19) up to 14 days before departure for a full credit that can be used for travel at a later date. See Terms & Conditions for more details.Â
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Lima (LIM)
- All airport and rail station transfers
- 1 night in Lima at the Hotel Britania Miraflores, or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Lima
- One-way economy class flight from Lima (LIM) to Cusco (CUZ)
- 1 night in Cusco at Hotel Los Portales Cusco, or similar
- Executive train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Roundtrip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Tour of the Citadel with private guide
- 1 night in Aguas Calientes at the Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu, or similar
- Executive train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Sacred Valley tour with visits to Ollantaytambo ruins & Pisac Market
- 2 nights in Cusco at Hotel Los Portales Cusco, or similar
- Walking tour of Cusco
- One-way, economy class flight from Cusco (CUZ) to Arequipa (AQP)
- Sightseeing tour of Arequipa with Santa Catalina Monastery
- 1 night in Arequipa at the Casa Andina Standard Arequipa, or similar
- Private, full-day Colca Canyon tour (including boxed lunch)
- 2 nights in Colca at the Casa Andina Classic Hotel, or similar
- Cross of the Condor Tour
- Sightseeing en-route to Arequipa Airport
- One-way, economy class flight from Arequipa (AQP) to Lima (LIM)
- 1 night near Lima at the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel, or similar*
- Breakfast Daily
*Please note: This hotel does not offer triple rooms. If you are traveling as a group of three, you will have two separate rooms for this night.Â
Great Ways to Explore
- Enjoy the salty cool air and fresh ceviche in Peru's capital of Lima where you will begin and end your trip.
- Enjoy tours in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. See Pisac market and enjoy a walking tour of Peru’s colonial city, Cusco, the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas.
- Catch your breath as you reach the entrance to Machu Picchu, a magnificent 7th World Wonder! From the temples to the Inca architecture, discover the beauty of the Lost City of the Incas.
- Spend two nights in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city. Guarded by three volcanoes, this city stuns with its natural and manmade beauty.
- Embark on a full-day tour of Colca Canyon where you will explore fascinating villages and have the chance to see the Andean Condor, the largest flying bird in the world!
There is no resisting the mesmerizing call to the Land of the Incas, and for good reason! From ancient architecture, cajon drum music, dancing the night away, and more, Peru is a siren call to those looking for colorful culture and ancient adventure.Â
Begin in the capital city of Lima, where Spanish and Inca architecture mix together in a beautiful blend of culture. Unwind in the new altitude with some coca tea, then follow your tour guides through the city's highlights.
From there, hop aboard the train to Machu Picchu! Tour through the ancient citadel, snapping photos as you go of the amazingly well-preserved 7th onder of the world, composed of granite, limestone, temples, and aqueducts.
From the lost city, continue on to Cusco. Tour through the charming Sacred Valley, peruse outdoor markets of handmade items, and then move on to Peru's second largest city: Arequipa. Embark on a tour of the Colca, the world's second deepest canyon, see the Santa Catalina Monastery, and experience the unreal flora and fauna of the area before returning to Lima for your flight home.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Lima (LIM)
- All airport and rail station transfers
- 1 night in Lima at the Hotel Britania Miraflores, or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Lima
- One-way economy class flight from Lima (LIM) to Cusco (CUZ)
- 1 night in Cusco at Hotel Los Portales Cusco, or similar
- Executive train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Roundtrip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Tour of the Citadel with private guide
- 1 night in Aguas Calientes at the Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu, or similar
- Executive train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Sacred Valley tour with visits to Ollantaytambo ruins & Pisac Market
- 2 nights in Cusco at Hotel Los Portales Cusco, or similar
- Walking tour of Cusco
- One-way, economy class flight from Cusco (CUZ) to Arequipa (AQP)
- Sightseeing tour of Arequipa with Santa Catalina Monastery
- 1 night in Arequipa at the Casa Andina Standard Arequipa, or similar
- Private, full-day Colca Canyon tour (including boxed lunch)
- 2 nights in Colca at the Casa Andina Classic Hotel, or similar
- Cross of the Condor Tour
- Sightseeing en-route to Arequipa Airport
- One-way, economy class flight from Arequipa (AQP) to Lima (LIM)
- 1 night near Lima at the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport Hotel, or similar*
- Breakfast Daily
*Please note: This hotel does not offer triple rooms. If you are traveling as a group of three, you will have two separate rooms for this night.Â
- Enjoy the salty cool air and fresh ceviche in Peru's capital of Lima where you will begin and end your trip.
- Enjoy tours in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. See Pisac market and enjoy a walking tour of Peru’s colonial city, Cusco, the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas.
- Catch your breath as you reach the entrance to Machu Picchu, a magnificent 7th World Wonder! From the temples to the Inca architecture, discover the beauty of the Lost City of the Incas.
- Spend two nights in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city. Guarded by three volcanoes, this city stuns with its natural and manmade beauty.
- Embark on a full-day tour of Colca Canyon where you will explore fascinating villages and have the chance to see the Andean Condor, the largest flying bird in the world!
There is no resisting the mesmerizing call to the Land of the Incas, and for good reason! From ancient architecture, cajon drum music, dancing the night away, and more, Peru is a siren call to those looking for colorful culture and ancient adventure.Â
Begin in the capital city of Lima, where Spanish and Inca architecture mix together in a beautiful blend of culture. Unwind in the new altitude with some coca tea, then follow your tour guides through the city's highlights.
From there, hop aboard the train to Machu Picchu! Tour through the ancient citadel, snapping photos as you go of the amazingly well-preserved 7th onder of the world, composed of granite, limestone, temples, and aqueducts.
From the lost city, continue on to Cusco. Tour through the charming Sacred Valley, peruse outdoor markets of handmade items, and then move on to Peru's second largest city: Arequipa. Embark on a tour of the Colca, the world's second deepest canyon, see the Santa Catalina Monastery, and experience the unreal flora and fauna of the area before returning to Lima for your flight home.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
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Day 1. Welcome to Lima!
Say "hola" to Peru! Upon arrival in Lima, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy your first Peruvian meal near your hotel.Â
Transfer to Lima hotel
Check-in - Hotel Britania Miraflores
Located just 30 minutes from Lima International Airport and 20 minutes to the historical city center, this Miraflores hotel makes the perfect base for your Peru adventure. Explore the neighborhood of Miraflores, just three blocks from the Kennedy Park, where cultural activities and daily crafts fairs are held.
From your cozy and spacious room, enjoy free Wi-Fi, slippers, and LCD TV. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast buffet every morning and return in the evening for a taste of Peruvian specialties at K'ara restaurant.
Day 2. Lima - Cusco
Following breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a Lima sightseeing tour. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cusco, Peru's breathtakingly beautiful colonial city! The juxtaposition of cultures makes this city one of the world's top destinations.
A Tip For Your Trip: Chewing coca leaves and drinking coca tea will help you adjust to Cusco's high altitude.
Transfer to Lima airport (LIM)
Fly to Cusco!
Transfer to Cusco hotel
Check-in - Hotel Los Portales Cusco
Stay in the heart of Cusco at the elegant Hotel Los Portales Cusco. Right across from the sun temple Koricancha and four blocks from Plaza de Armas, this hotel puts you right in the center of everything. Each of the 50 rooms and suites is the essence of urban sophistication, decorated in pastel tones and dark green; they are fully carpeted and have flat-screens with cable TV and minibar. The hotel offers a full buffet breakfast which can be enjoyed at the checkered marble floor patio decorated with plants. Guests can also enjoy a meal at the restaurant offering a la carte dining options.
Sightseeing tour of Lima
Embark on a tour of Lima's main avenues, boulevards, and squares, beginning with an exploration of colonial Lima which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. First, you will stop off at the Plaza de Armas, where you see the square on foot and admire the exteriors of the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the City Hall - all examples of Lima's still-present colonial architectural opulence. Walk through the Cathedral’s numerous chapels, discover its various architectural styles from Renaissance to Neo-Classical, and learn about the religious history of Peru. End the tour with a visit to the pastel yellow San Francisco Convent built in the 17th century. Explore the lavish interior and visit the catacombs, ancient underground cemetery of Lima.
Day 3. Cusco - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu
Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Ollantaytambo train station for your expedition to Machu Picchu. Once you arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes, you’ll have a shuttle bus escort you to the citadel followed by a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Once you've ooed and awed at the magnificent ancient civilization, a shuttle bus will escort you down from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes.Â
After you've rested your tired feet, enjoy a relaxing dinner in town.
Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
Executive train to Aguas Calientes!
Bus to Machu Picchu!
Bus to Aguas Calientes
Check-in - Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu
Located within steps of Machu Picchu's train and bus stations, this elegant hotel boasts comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and relaxing services. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team. Head up to your bright room and find tons of natural light, plush bedding, free WiFi, luxurious bath products, and much more. Once you settle in, unwind in the steamy sauna and hot tub! When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant, which overlooks the rushing river.
Tour of the Citadel with private guide
Enjoy a guided tour of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Rediscovered by Hiram Bingham more than a century ago, Machu Picchu is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Its architectural beauty, spectacular natural landscapes and the energy held in its enigmatic structures will take your breath away!
Day 4. Machu Picchu - Sacred Valley - Cusco
In the morning, return to Aguas Calientes train station and enjoy a comfortable train ride back to Ollantaytambo. Enjoy a tour of Ollantaytambo ruins and the colorful Pisac Market before returning to Cusco.Â
Once you settle into your hotel, stroll through the heart of the city at the Plaza de Armas and take a picture with the local women in traditional Inca dress.
Executive train to Ollantaytambo!
Transfer to Cusco hotel
Check-in - Hotel Los Portales Cusco
Stay in the heart of Cusco at the elegant Hotel Los Portales Cusco. Right across from the sun temple Koricancha and four blocks from Plaza de Armas, this hotel puts you right in the center of everything. Each of the 50 rooms and suites is the essence of urban sophistication, decorated in pastel tones and dark green; they are fully carpeted and have flat-screens with cable TV and minibar. The hotel offers a full buffet breakfast which can be enjoyed at the checkered marble floor patio decorated with plants. Guests can also enjoy a meal at the restaurant offering a la carte dining options.
Sacred Valley tour with visits to Ollantaytambo ruins & Pisac Market
Visit one of the last remaining Incan towns, Ollantaytambo, which was once fiercely guarded by a massive fortress. Discover the large archaeological complex that used to serve as a wayside inn for royal delegations on long journeys. Surviving structures here include multiple walls and towers used to protect the citadel from possible invasions. After touring the ruins, continue along the Sacred Valley to Pisac, a beautiful village where Incan and Colonial influences have created the unique way of life of the local inhabitants. Explore this quaint town, famous for its artisan market where you can find extraordinarily fine jewelry, ceramics and textile craftwork.
Day 5. Cusco
Today, enjoy a walking tour taking you to Cusco Cathedral and the sun temple Koricancha! In the evening, indulge in a few of Peru's delicacies. Adventurous eaters will want to try the local specialty, cuy (guinea pig).
Walking tour of Cusco
Day 6. Cusco - Arequipa
Today, transfer to Cusco airport for your flight to Arequipa in the south. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery en-route to your hotel.
Guarded by three volcanoes - the Misti, the Chachani, and the Pichu Pichu - the magnificent Ciudad Blanca (White City) of Arequipa is Peru's second-largest city after Lima.
Transfer to Cusco airport (CUZ)
Fly to Arequipa!
Transfer to Arequipa hotel
Check-in - Casa Andina Standard Arequipa
Casa Andina Standard Arequipa is a 10 minute walk from both the 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery and lively Plaza de Armas Arequipa. It has 103 comfortable and bright rooms with impeccable furnishings in a contemporary building made of ashlar (white volcanic stone). Rooms come with flat-screen TVs, safes, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Enjoy a free breakfast buffet served in a dining room and sip a drink outside on the terrace with views of El Misti Mountain.
Sightseeing tour of Arequipa with Santa Catalina Monastery
Discover one of Peru's most beautiful colonial cities! Begin the tour with a visit to the Convento de Santa Catalina (Convent of St. Catherine). Founded in 1579 as a cloister, in its early days the convent was home to a small group of clergy who came from the local elite. Walk through its beautiful buildings as your guide takes you on a journey back in time through one of the largest holdings of colonial art in the Americas.
The tour continues with a visit to the Iglesia de la CompañÃa de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus). With its imposing size, this magnificent church will take your breath away. Pay special attention to the baroque façade and the amazing sacristy, meticulously decorated with vividly-colored murals.
After finishing the tour of the church, move on to the Mirador del Carmen, a natural lookout point 10 minutes from the city center. Enjoy spectacular views of the Chili River Valley and the majestic Misti volcano.
End the tour in the upscale neighborhood of Yanahuara. Walk along its wide cobblestone avenues and see its old ashlar stone mansions and traditional gardens. Admire a beautiful church constructed in 1750 and a quaint plaza with a gorgeous ashlar stone lookout balcony.
Day 7. Arequipa - Colca
Today you will embark on a full day tour of Colca Canyon, the world's second deepest canyon! Explore the colorful Andean valley with pre-Inca roots and Spanish colonial towns which are still inhabited by people of the Collagua and the Cabana cultures. Have the chance to see the famous Andean Condor, commonly referred to as the "eternity bird" for its symbol of long life.
Check-in - Casa Andina Standard Colca
Private, full-day Colca Canyon tour (including boxed lunch)
Depart at 8:30 am from the hotel. At the start of the journey from Arequipa, we will be able to observe from Yura the volcanoes which guard the city Chachani, Misti and Pichu Pichu. Ascend through the side of the Chachani until reaching Pampa Cañahuas’ plain. This area constitutes the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca. There, herds of Vicuñas will be observed as well as a great variety of plants. Arrival to Chivay. Lunch. Visit the local market. Travelers can enjoy the thermal baths of La Calera if they want (the entrance is on behalf of the passenger).
Day 8. Colca
Today, enjoy a tour of the Cross of the Condor!
Cross of the Condor
Head for the Cross of the Condor at 6:30 am. Observe the Canyon and the flight of the Condor which will without a doubt take your breath away. On the way back to Chivay, visit the small towns of Maca, Achoma and Yanque. A stop at the viewpoint of Antahuilque is a must. There, you will observe the magnitude of the terraces or “Andenes."
Day 9. Colca - Lima
Take a walk before your transfer to Arequipa airport. You'll get to enjoy some last-minute sightseeing before you fly back to Lima. Once you arrive and settle into your hotel, dine on fresh seafood and say cheers to an unforgettable vacation with a Pisco Sour, Peru's national drink!
Transfer to Arequipa airport (AQP)
Fly to Lima!
Check-in - Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport
With a connecting walkway linked directly to Jorge Chavéz International Airport, the Wyndham Costa del Sol is Lima’s premier airport hotel. This hotel offers the ultimate in convenience and comfort, whether you’re exploring Peru’s capital or just passing through. Experience legendary Peruvian hospitality as soon as you arrive with a free welcome drink upon check in. Savor our free breakfast buffet daily and an onsite restaurant and lounge.
Rooms are available either nightly or hourly to recharge during a long layover and feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and safes, as well as minibars, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Enjoy your quiet guest room or relax in our spa and 24-hour fitness facilities, with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, and massage.
Day 10. Depart Peru
Make your way to Lima airport for your flight back home.Â