The Very Best of Peru Tour

Fly with the Air France / KLM partnership from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Aberdeen. Whichever regional UK airport you choose, there will be no additional cost. Our flights travel to Lima via either Amsterdam or Paris. Upon arrival, we meet our Tour Manager and transfer to Sol de Oro Hotel & Suites, our hotel for our first two nights in Peru.

After breakfast, we meet with our fellow passengers and learn more of our adventures ahead before embarking on a tour to explore Lima's rich history and culture. Admire the colonial facades of Plaza San Martín and Plaza de Armas as we wander through Lima’s historical centre. Discover the San Francisco Monastery with its underground catacombs and stroll through the contemporary districts of Miraflores and San Isidro, with their beautiful parks, boutique shops and modern architecture. Our tour concludes in the bohemian district of Barranco - loved by artists and musicians and brimming with charm. We return to our hotel late afternoon and the evening is ours to unwind at our leisure.

Leaving Lima behind, we join our flight to Arequipa. Known as the ‘White City’, Arequipa is surrounded by three volcanic peaks and much of its unique, baroque-styled architecture is made from the white volcanic stone quarried nearby. Upon arrival, we transfer to Casa Andina Premium Arequipa, our home for the next three nights. Arequipa is renowned for its gastronomy, and this evening we stroll along the city’s cobbled streets to one of its widely acclaimed restaurants and dine together, savouring traditional local favourites like prawn chowder - chupe de camarones, or rocoto relleno - a dish of stuffed peppers, before returning to our hotel for the remainder of the evening.

We start today by diving deeper into Arequipa’s charm with a guided walking tour. From the city’s most traditional neighbourhood of San Lázaro, we explore the main square, Plaza de Armas. Marvel at the grand cathedral, water fountain and the finely-carved 17th century facade of La Compañía Church. Inside we see intricately-painted ceilings, reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel, before ending our tour at San Camilo Market to sample local delicacies. Our afternoon is at leisure. You may wish to use this time to learn more about a frozen mummy found in the nearby mountains only a few decades ago, or perhaps explore the countryside and visit a colonial mansion built by 16th-century Jesuits.

Tour Highlight

Today we explore the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery. Built in 1579, this 'city within a city' housed nuns for over 400 years, in complete isolation from the outside world. As we wander through the colourful streets and squares, we admire the restored features and detailed architecture, which still house a small community. The afternoon is at our leisure to enjoy Arequipa further. Soak up the atmosphere of this walkable city or explore the quarries where the white volcanic stone, used to establish Arequipa’s infrastructure, is mined.

This morning, we travel to the awe-inspiring Colca Valley, one of the world’s deepest gorges. En route we pass through Aguada Blanca National Park, an area of high Andean plateaus marked by lakes and meadows. Look out for herds of vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing on the plains, as we ascend to a height of 4,910 metres above sea level, where we are rewarded with far-reaching views of the snow-capped volcanic peaks. We enjoy a light lunch in Chivay, where traditionally clad villagers don brightly embroidered skirts and wide-brimmed felt hats. We continue to our hotel, Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, for the next two nights. The late afternoon is a perfect time to enjoy the thermal baths located in the grounds of our lodge, situated on the banks of the Colca River.

Tour Highlight

An early start as we navigate the dramatic natural scenery on our way to enjoy arguably the most spectacular section of Colca Canyon – the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. At 3,400 metres deep, the canyon is almost twice as deep as the famed Grand Canyon and stretches for 43 miles. Positioned at the canyon ridge, overlooking the staggering slopes of this magnificent panorama, we search for the majestic Andean condor. With a maximum wingspan of 3.3 metres and a weight of 15kg, it is generally considered to be largest flying bird of prey - graceful as it glides along the thermal currents, diving and hunting for food. Afterwards, we explore the small, picturesque towns of Maca and Yanque, renowned for their colonial churches, local crafts and stunning landscapes. We return to our lodge and our afternoon is at leisure. Learn more about condors and camelids at the on-site drawing room and feed alpacas at the hotel’s farm, or spend the afternoon simply enjoying the beauty of our surroundings.

This morning, we set off on our scenic drive to Puno, a journey which takes us from the rugged mountain scenery of the Andean plateau to the serene waters of the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca. Along the way we stop to admire the unusual rock formations at the ‘forest of stones’ of Imata. Continuing our drive, we pass through humble settlements and vast open landscapes, before arriving at the fresh waters of Laguna Lagunillas. Situated at an altitude of 4,250 metres, the air is cool, and when flamingos visit the lagoon, they lend a pink tinge to the icy blue, windswept, beautiful backdrop. After an invigorating pitstop, we resume our journey eastwards, arriving at our hotel. Sitting on the shores of Lake Titicaca, our two-night stay at José Antonio is a perfect base from which to discover more about the ethnic culture of those that live on the lake’s islands.

Tour Highlight

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, at 3,812 metres above sea level, Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America. Located on the border between Bolivia and Peru, time here seems to have stood still. Village lifestyles have remained relatively unchanged for thousands of years. After an early breakfast, we head out onto the lake to meet the Uru – an indigenous community that resides on the floating ‘totara’ reeds of the Uros Islands. Rising six metres above the lake level, the islands are anchored to logs and connected to each other by ropes. The Uru people depend on the resources of the lake for their living, fishing in the ice-cold water and harvesting crops by hand. We meet the resident families dressed in traditional, colourful outfits and learn about their thriving culture and crafts. Later, we sail to Taquile Island, known for its pre-Inca terraces, unpaved roads and lack of electricity. Local Taquileños' traditions are based on community collectivism – men are taught to knit and women weave. After a wonderful morning and a traditional lunch, we sail back to our hotel.

Tour Highlight

Today, we embark on one of the most scenic journeys in the world, aboard the Titicaca Train from Puno to Cusco. Take in the unforgettable views of the landscape from the open-air balcony of the Observatory Car, as we cross the vast Peruvian Andes. Enjoy a beverage in the Bar Car before sitting down to savour delicious onboard dining, including a three-course lunch and afternoon tea. Entertainment is provided in the form of traditional dance to live music, and expert bartenders teach us how to make the perfect Pisco Sour. At the journey’s highest point of 4,321 metres above sea level, we stop briefly at La Raya to admire the surrounding peaks, which are often draped in mist. Our journey concludes on arrival at Cusco, where we are transferred to Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel & Villas or La Casona de Yucay, our comfortable retreat for the next three nights.

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of the Sacred Valley with a visit to the small town of Pisac. Famous for its empanada ovens, we visit Pumachayoc, one of Pisac's oldest eateries. Owned by the same family for generations, owner Ernestina follows her father’s recipes using the original ‘superfoods’ of quinoa and fava beans, preparing sweet and savoury empanadas for us to sample. We also meet a local silversmith to learn more about their craft of traditional jewellery-making. Next, we head to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. Nicknamed ‘Ollanta’ by the locals, there are testimonies to the ingenuity of Inca engineering all around. From the ruins perched high on the surrounding slopes, to the water channels running through the town’s cobbled lanes, the town’s 700-year history is to be admired. Our day concludes with a visit to a typical home, providing insight into life in the Sacred Valley, before we return to our hotel for the evening.

More of the valley unfolds with a visit to the unique circular terraces of Moray. This pre-Inca agricultural area has underground irrigation channels, a variety of soils and changing temperatures, and is believed to have been an experimental plant nursery and agricultural research station. Afterwards, we visit the salt ponds of Maras. Reflecting Inca practices, the 4,500 ponds are managed by a system of collective ownership, called ‘ayni’, and different families are responsible for harvesting the salt by hand. Sunshine plays a part in its production and quality – the white and pinkish-coloured salt terraces are almost blinding in the drier season. We pause for a flavoursome lunch overlooking the valley landscape, and later, visit a local community, where skilled artisans teach us time-honoured weaving and dyeing techniques.

Tour Highlight

After breakfast we take the panoramic Vistadome Observatory train journey to Aguas Calientes at the foot of Machu Picchu, enjoying stunning views of the Sacred Valley along the way. Spot small villages high up in the mountains and soak in the high-altitude peaks surrounding the valley as the train winds its way towards the foothills of the sacred site of ‘The Lost City of the Inca’, Machu Picchu. On arrival, a shuttle takes us ever closer to the majesty of this iconic landmark as it climbs the switchback roads leading up to the ancient citadel, passing jaw-dropping scenery with every turn. For the next couple of hours, as we are guided through the labyrinth of alleyways and terraces, learning about the astounding feats of Inca engineering, marvel at the phenomenal vista before us and wonder, "how on earth did they do that?" Afterwards we take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes and walk the short distance to El Mapi by Inkaterra, our overnight hotel, where we later enjoy dinner together.

Tour Highlight

This morning, we revisit Machu Picchu to further explore its wonders at our own pace. Before leaving this breathtaking landmark, we meet to toast the magic of our experience, setting the stage for our next adventure - a journey on the iconic Belmond Hiram Bingham train. Named after the American explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911, we settle into the train’s elegantly styled carriages for a memorable journey from Machu Picchu to Cusco. As the train winds along the Urubamba River, the stunning Peruvian Andean scenery fading into modest villages, plains and pastures, we enjoy delicious Peruvian cuisine, savour fine wines and reflect warmly on the day’s adventures with fellow travellers. We arrive in Cusco late evening and are transferred to Casa Andina Premium Cusco or Novotel Cusco, where we enjoy our next three nights’ stay.

Once the capital of the Inca Empire, the historic charm of Cusco awaits. Today, we explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, starting with the colonial influences surrounding the Plaza de Armas and its renaissance-styled cathedral. Continuing on foot, observe the Inca influence as we make our way through small alleys, edged by ancient Inca walls of precision stonework, to Qorikancha, believed to be the most important temple for the Incas. Next, we visit the hilly, artistic San Blas neighbourhood, a traditional area famed for its culture, handicrafts and timeless, colonial-era houses. A treasure trove of galleries and bijoux eateries dot the winding, narrow lanes – the atmosphere distinctly bohemian. The indigenous name for Cusco is Qosqo, meaning 'navel of the world' – and we end our tour overlooking the city, taking in its spectacular panorama.

Cusco is an energetic city with so much to offer, and our day is free to explore at our own pace. Enjoy the ambience of the central plaza or step into the past and explore Sacsayhuamán, the Inca ceremonial fortress dedicated to the sun. Get up close to Andean camelids at Manos de la Comunidad or learn more about Peruvian gastronomy and take part in a cookery class. With so much history, there are bound to be secrets – join a walking tour at sunrise or sunset to hear stories only the locals know.

We Recommend - Cookery Class

Meet your chef who will introduce you to Peruvian culinary culture. Prepare typical dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado, accompanied by a Pisco Sour.

Early this morning we fly to Lima. Upon arrival, we transfer to the renowned Larco Museum for a tour. The museum is home to over 45,000 objects including pre-Columbian ceramics, textiles, gold and silver pieces, plus the museum’s famous and unique erotic ceramics collection from the Mochica culture. The tranquil ambience of the museum's Café Museo Larco restaurant, set in a garden of dazzling, cerise and orange bougainvillea, is where we enjoy our final meal together and completes our immersion into Peruvian history, culture and gastronomy. After lunch we head to the Sol de Oro Hotel & Suites for our final night in Peru.

It’s time to bid farewell to new friends and make our way to Lima Airport for our flight to Paris or Amsterdam, with the Air France / KLM partnership.

Our flight connects with our onward journey to London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Aberdeen, bringing an end to our incredible journey.