Land of the Incas
Escorted Tour
LIMA | CUSCO | SACRED VALLEY | MACHU PICCHU | CUSCO | LAKE TITICACA | THE NAZCA LINE | BALLESTAS ISLANDS
This immersive 13-day escorted tour through Peru unveils the country’s most iconic and unexpected treasures, from the vibrant capital of Lima and the Sacred Valley’s ancient traditions to the aweinspiring heights of Machu Picchu and the serene waters of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, engage with local communities, explore UNESCO sites, and experience Peru’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
Your Itinerary
Day 1 : Lima
The Capital of the New World welcomes you to Peru. Meet your local host on arrival and transfer to your hotel in Miraflores, Lima’s coastal district known for its boutiques and ocean views. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow guests to begin your Peruvian adventure.
Hotel: Iberostar Hotel Lima – 2 nights (D)
Day 2 : Lima
Begin your exploration of Lima with a guided city tour, visiting Casona San Marcos and learning its rich history. Enjoy a hands-on workshop introducing Afro- Peruvian rhythms and dance. Continue to the Main Square where you can join a guided walking tour through Miraflores, ending with time to explore or dine at leisure. (B)
Day 3 : Cusco – Sacred Valley
Fly to Cusco and descend into the Sacred Valley, surrounded by towering Andean peaks. Enjoy sweeping valley views before a special cultural encounter with a local Shaman who performs a welcome ceremony.
Hotel: Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay – 2 nights (B,L)
Day 4 : Sacred Valley
Visit a local farm to learn about the production of Giant White Corn and enjoy a private Marinera dance performance. Later, meet renowned explorer Peter Frost for insights into Incan history. End the day with a hands-on experience preparing traditional ceviche and mastering the art of the perfect Pisco sour. (B,L)
Day 5 : Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu
Explore the remarkable ruins of Ollantaytambo, then board the scenic Vistadome train bound for Machu Picchu. Journey along the Urubamba River, tracing the footsteps of ancient Incas. On arrival, delve into the mysteries of this legendary citadel with a local specialist, uncovering temples, terraces, and ancient stonework. Hotel: El MaPi (B,D)
Day 6 : Machu Picchu – Cusco
Return to Machu Picchu this morning for time to explore independently. Then board the train back toward Cusco, stopping en route to learn about the natural dyeing techniques of local weavers. Visit the Pisac market and sample traditional Andean chicha before continuing to the historic city of Cusco.
Hotel: Novotel Cusco – 2 nights (B)
Day 7 : Cusco Sightseeing
Begin at Sacsayhuaman, an imposing Incan fortress overlooking Cusco. Explore the colonial heart of the city before visiting Mantay, a social project empowering young mothers through education and craft. This afternoon, join a local specialist to uncover nearby Incan ruins or opt for additional cultural experiences at your leisure. (B)
Day 8 : Juliaca – Lake Titicaca
Fly to Juliaca and meet a local specialist who shares insights into life on the altiplano. Visit the hauntingly beautiful pre-Incan site of Sillustani before continuing to Lake Titicaca. In a traditional home, learn about daily life on the high plains and enjoy a hearty homecooked lunch.
Hotel: GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca – 2 nights (B,L)
Day 9 : Lake Titicaca
Cruise Lake Titicaca to meet the Uros people, who live on floating islands crafted from reeds. Continue to Taquile Island for a guided tour focusing on its UNESCO-recognized textile traditions. Discover a unique way of life on these remote islets and enjoy a memorable afternoon immersed in Andean culture. (B,L)
Day 10 : Paracas
Return to Lima and journey south through Peru’s coastal countryside to Paracas. On arrival, settle into your seaside hotel and enjoy time to relax. Hotel: Spa Hotel Awana – 2 nights (B,L)
Day 11 : Nazca Lines Flight
Take to the skies on a scenic flight over the Nazca Lines, enigmatic geoglyphs etched into the desert. Visit the Regional Museum of Ica to learn about the Paracas and Nazca cultures. Later, tour a traditional bodega to sample Peru’s finest pisco and delve into the country’s winemaking heritage. (B,L)
Day 12 : Ballestas Islands – Lima
Embark on a morning cruise to the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. View the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph along the coast. Return to Lima and visit the Larco Museum for an intimate look at pre-Columbian art, followed by a festive farewell evening in a lush garden setting.
Hotel: Iberostar Hotel Lima (B,D)
Day 13 : Lima - UK
Bid farewell to Peru’s ancient wonders as your journey concludes. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight or choose to extend your stay in Lima with additional time to explore the capital’s museums, markets, and culinary gems. (B)