Discover the Wonders of Peru in 12 Days: From Lima to Cusco with 2 Days at Machu Picchu for Queers

Journey: 2026 - 2027 Duration: 12 Days Double Sharing Price: $5980 pp Single Room Price: $6980 pp Limited To: 4-16

Peru is a land where ancient civilizations, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture converge to create one of the world’s most compelling travel experiences. This thoughtfully curated Seek & Savor journey has been designed to reveal the country’s extraordinary depth-from Lima’s dynamic culinary scene to the sacred landscapes of the Andes and the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

Your adventure begins in Lima, where colonial grandeur, contemporary creativity, and one of the world’s most celebrated food cultures come together along the Pacific coast. Privately guided explorations reveal the capital’s historic center, artistic districts, and remarkable archaeological sites hidden within the modern city.

From the coast, you ascend into the majestic Andes and the Sacred Valley, once the agricultural and spiritual heartland of the Inca Empire. Surrounded by towering peaks, terraced mountainsides, and traditional villages, the valley offers a deeper connection to Peru’s living cultural heritage through artisan workshops, vibrant markets, and ancient ruins that speak to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

The pinnacle of your journey arrives with two unforgettable days exploring Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas. Approaching by panoramic rail through dramatic Andean landscapes, you encounter one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites on earth.

Your journey concludes in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, where Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture stand side by side in one of South America’s most fascinating cultural centers.

Throughout the experience, Seek & Savor blends cultural depth, carefully selected boutique accommodations, and expertly guided exploration to create a journey that is both seamless and deeply enriching.

Signature Seek & Savor Experiences

This journey includes a collection of carefully curated experiences designed to reveal the depth, beauty, and traditions of Peru.

  • Privately guided exploration of Lima’s historic and artistic districts: Discover Lima’s vibrant contrasts, from the colonial grandeur of its historic center to the colorful streets and galleries of Barranco.
  • Visit Pachacamac, Peru’s most important coastal pilgrimage site: Explore this sacred pre-Incan temple complex overlooking the Pacific Ocean and learn about the civilizations that shaped Peru long before the rise of the Incas.
  • Elegant Peruvian Paso horse experience: Witness the grace and precision of Peru’s national horse in a cultural presentation that celebrates centuries-old traditions.
  • Curated art and history experience at the Pedro de Osma Museum: Admire one of Peru’s finest collections of colonial art within a beautifully preserved historic mansion.
  • Dining beside the ancient Huaca Pucllana pyramid: Enjoy contemporary Peruvian cuisine in one of Lima’s most remarkable settings, overlooking a ceremonial adobe pyramid that predates the Incas.
  • Sacred Valley cultural immersion: Experience the living traditions of the Andes through vibrant markets, artisan workshops, and encounters with local culture.
  • Pisac Market and archaeological ruins: Explore one of the Sacred Valley’s most colorful traditional markets and the impressive mountain-top ruins overlooking the valley below.
  • Moray agricultural terraces and Maras salt pans: Discover two of the most fascinating examples of Inca ingenuity, where ancient agricultural experimentation and salt harvesting continue today.
  • Visit the renowned Pablo Seminario ceramic workshop: Observe contemporary ceramic artistry inspired by ancient Andean cultures and learn about the creative process behind these distinctive works.
  • Two days exploring Machu Picchu: With extended time at the site, experience the citadel at a deeper level while learning about the architectural brilliance and cultural significance of the Inca Empire.
  • Panoramic rail journey through the Andes: Travel aboard the Inca Rail 360° train, where sweeping glass windows reveal dramatic river canyons, cloud forests, and mountain peaks.
  • Historic Cusco exploration: Walk through the former capital of the Inca Empire, where magnificent stonework, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets tell the story of Peru’s layered history.

Upcoming Departures:

  • May 25 – June 5, 2026
  • June 1 – June 12, 2026
  • June 22 – July 3, 2026
  • July 6 – July 17, 2026
  • July 27 – August 7, 2026
  • August 3 – August 14, 2026
  • August 24 – September 4, 2026
  • September 7 – September 18, 2026
  • September 28 – October 9, 2026
  • October 5 – October 16, 2026
  • October 26 – November 6, 2026
  • November 2 – November 13, 2026
  • November 23 – December 4, 2026
  • December 7 – December 18, 2026
  • December 28, 2026 – January 8, 2027
  • January 4 – January 15, 2027
  • January 25 – February 5, 2027
  • February 1 – February 12, 2027
  • February 22 – March 5, 2027
  • March 1 – March 12, 2027
  • March 22 – April 2, 2027
  • April 5 – April 16, 2027
  • April 26 – May 7, 2027
  • May 3 – May 14, 2027
  • May 24 – June 4, 2027
  • June 7 – June 18, 2027
  • June 28 – July 9, 2027
  • July 5 – July 16, 2027
  • July 26 – August 6, 2027
  • August 2 – August 13, 2027
  • August 23 – September 3, 2027
  • September 6 – September 17, 2027
  • September 27 – October 8, 2027
  • October 4 – October 15, 2027
  • October 25 – November 5, 2027
  • November 1 – November 12, 2027
  • November 22 – December 3, 2027
  • December 6 – December 17, 2027
  • December 27, 2027 – January 7, 2028

Trip Overview

  • Discover Lima’s historic center and vibrant cultural districts, where colonial architecture, art, and culinary excellence define one of Latin America’s most dynamic capitals.
  • Visit the sacred temple complex of Pachacamac, one of Peru’s most important pre-Incan pilgrimage sites, followed by a memorable Peruvian Paso horse cultural experience.
  • Explore the bohemian district of Barranco, visit the Pedro de Osma Museum, and dine beside the ancient adobe pyramid of Huaca Pucllana, where history and contemporary Peruvian cuisine meet.
  • Journey into the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and centuries-old agricultural terraces.
  • Discover the vibrant Pisac Market and the impressive Pisac ruins, where ancient Inca engineering and Andean culture come together.
  • Visit the remarkable salt terraces of Maras and the fascinating circular agricultural terraces of Moray, revealing the ingenuity of Inca science and agriculture.
  • Explore the fortress and living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, followed by a visit to the renowned Pablo Seminario ceramic workshop, where ancient artistic traditions inspire contemporary craftsmanship.
  • Travel through the Andes aboard the panoramic Inca Rail 360° train, enjoying spectacular views of the Urubamba River canyon and cloud-forest landscapes.
  • Spend two unforgettable days exploring Machu Picchu, allowing time to fully appreciate the mystery, beauty, and architectural brilliance of the Lost City of the Incas.
  • Discover Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, where majestic plazas, colonial churches, vibrant markets, and ancient Inca walls create one of South America’s most captivating cities

A travel experience like no other

Curated journeys of festivals, celebration, culture, and exclusive experiences

  • Discover Lima’s historic center and vibrant cultural districts, where colonial architecture, art, and culinary excellence define one of Latin America’s most dynamic capitals.
  • Visit the sacred temple complex of Pachacamac, one of Peru’s most important pre-Incan pilgrimage sites, followed by a memorable Peruvian Paso horse cultural experience.
  • Explore the bohemian district of Barranco, visit the Pedro de Osma Museum, and dine beside the ancient adobe pyramid of Huaca Pucllana, where history and contemporary Peruvian cuisine meet.
  • Journey into the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and centuries-old agricultural terraces.
  • Discover the vibrant Pisac Market and the impressive Pisac ruins, where ancient Inca engineering and Andean culture come together.
  • Visit the remarkable salt terraces of Maras and the fascinating circular agricultural terraces of Moray, revealing the ingenuity of Inca science and agriculture.
  • Explore the fortress and living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, followed by a visit to the renowned Pablo Seminario ceramic workshop, where ancient artistic traditions inspire contemporary craftsmanship.
  • Travel through the Andes aboard the panoramic Inca Rail 360° train, enjoying spectacular views of the Urubamba River canyon and cloud-forest landscapes.
  • Spend two unforgettable days exploring Machu Picchu, allowing time to fully appreciate the mystery, beauty, and architectural brilliance of the Lost City of the Incas.
  • Discover Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, where majestic plazas, colonial churches, vibrant markets, and ancient Inca walls create one of South America’s most captivating cities
Day 1
  • Arrival in Lima: Receive a warm welcome at Lima’s airport and transfer to your hotel to settle in and start your journey comfortably.
  • Check-in and rest at your Lima Hotel.
  • Throughout your trip, your dedicated assistant guide will provide personalized support, reviewing the itinerary with you, answering questions, and ensuring each day flows smoothly while offering insights and recommendations to enhance your experience.
Day 2
  • Historic Center of Lima: Walk past colonial streets with wooden balconies, major plazas, civic buildings, and religious complexes.
  • Cathedral of Lima: Explore Peru’s largest cathedral with an extensive collection of religious art, paintings, and sculptures.
  • San Francisco Monastery: Admire Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, richly decorated altars, carved stone façade, and underground crypts.
  • San Isidro & El Olivar Park: Stroll through a peaceful park with centuries-old olive trees in Lima’s elegant district.
  • Miraflores District: Discover ocean views, gardens, parks, and artistic streets in this vibrant, scenic neighborhood.
  • Larco Herrera Museum: Tour a historic Hacienda house built on a pre-Incan sacred site; view a private collection of ~45,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, including erotic art.
  • Lunch at Larco Museum: Enjoy Peruvian and international cuisine in a cozy garden setting.
Day 3
  • Historic Center of Lima: Walk past colonial streets with wooden balconies, major plazas, civic buildings, and religious complexes.
  • Cathedral of Lima: Explore Peru’s largest cathedral with an extensive collection of religious art, paintings, and sculptures.
  • San Francisco Monastery: Admire Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, richly decorated altars, carved stone façade, and underground crypts.
  • San Isidro & El Olivar Park: Stroll through a peaceful park with centuries-old olive trees in Lima’s elegant district.
  • Miraflores District: Discover ocean views, gardens, parks, and artistic streets in this vibrant, scenic neighborhood.
  • Larco Herrera Museum: Tour a historic Hacienda house built on a pre-Incan sacred site; view a private collection of ~45,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, including erotic art.
  • Lunch at Larco Museum: Enjoy Peruvian and international cuisine in a cozy garden setting.
Day 4
  • Barranco District – Explore Lima’s bohemian neighborhood with colorful streets, Republican-era architecture, vibrant murals, and artistic charm.
  • Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) – Visit this iconic wooden bridge, steeped in romantic legend and city history.
  • Pedro de Osma Museum – Discover one of Peru’s finest colonial art collections, including Cusco School paintings, silverware, and family heirlooms in a historic mansion with gardens.
  • Huaca Pucllana – Tour the ancient adobe pyramid in Miraflores, a pre-Incan ceremonial and political center, showcasing geometric precision and historical craftsmanship.
  • Contemporary Peruvian Lunch – Enjoy local flavors with views of Huaca Pucllana, blending modern cuisine with historical ambiance.
Day 5
  • Scenic Transfer to the Sacred Valley: Descend from Cusco to the Sacred Valley to acclimatize gradually, ensuring comfort and energy for your journey.
  • Pisac Ruins Exploration: Discover impressive Inca terraces and strategic urban planning with sweeping views over the Urubamba River.
  • Cultural Immersion at Pisac Market: Experience vibrant Andean culture through handwoven textiles, silverwork, ceramics, and local produce.
  • Lunch at Hacienda Huayoccari: Enjoy refined regional cuisine in a colonial estate with serene gardens and panoramic valley views.
  • Acclimatization at Boutique Lodge: Settle into your comfortable lodge, allowing your body to adjust while soaking in the beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Day 6
  • Expert Guided Experience: Enjoy the insights of a knowledgeable guide from hotel pickup to the end of the excursion.
  • Moray Terraces Exploration: Discover the circular Inca agricultural terraces, showcasing ancient engineering and climate experimentation.
  • Maras Salt Pans Visit: Witness the breathtaking salt evaporation ponds, still harvested using traditional methods.
  • Scenic Sacred Valley Views: Take in the stunning landscapes of the valley, framed by Andean mountains.
  • Cultural and Historical Insights: Learn about Inca ingenuity, local traditions, and the interplay between nature and civilization.
Day 7
  • Ollantaytambo Exploration: Walk through the “living Inca town” and marvel at the fortress’s perfectly fitted stones, stepped terraces, and original Inca streets and water channels.
  • Pablo Seminario Ceramic Workshop: Observe exquisite ceramic creations in progress, meet the artist if possible, and browse the exhibition shop for unique pieces.
  • Refined Andean Lunch at Manos Restaurant: Savor a sophisticated countryside meal inspired by native Peruvian ingredients, beautifully presented in a serene garden setting.
Day 8
  • Scenic Inca Rail 360° Experience: Travel through the Sacred Valley with panoramic views of the Urubamba River canyon, cloud forests, and Andean peaks in comfort and style.
  • Arrival at Machu Picchu via Bus: Ascend through lush forests to the entrance of the iconic Inca citadel, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration.
  • Guided Machu Picchu Exploration: Discover the Lost City of the Incas with expert insights into Inca architecture, culture, and history.
  • Lunch in Aguas Calientes: Enjoy a meal of Peruvian and international dishes at Café Inkaterra, rounding off a day of cultural and scenic immersion.
Day 9
  • In-Depth Machu Picchu Exploration: Guided visit to additional sectors of the citadel at a relaxed pace, emphasizing Inca architecture, agricultural innovation, and spiritual significance.
  • Lunch at Qunuq Restaurant: Enjoy a refined meal with traditional Peruvian flavors and contemporary techniques, set in an elegant restaurant with breathtaking mountain views.
  • Scenic Inca Rail 360° Return: Travel back through the Sacred Valley aboard the panoramic train, soaking in stunning Andean landscapes and river valleys.
  • Private Transfer to Cusco: Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo Station, receive a warm welcome and comfortable private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 10
  • Main Square (Plaza de Armas): Discover the historic heart of Cusco, where colonial architecture meets vibrant local life.
  • Cusco Cathedral: Admire the Renaissance-style exterior and intricate Baroque silverwork interior, built with massive red granite slabs during the Spanish Viceroyalty.
  • Santo Domingo Church / Koricancha: Explore the church built atop the Inca temple of Koricancha, dedicated to the sun god, blending Inca and colonial architecture.
  • Lunch at Cicciolina: Enjoy a refined meal in a restored colonial house, combining Mediterranean inspiration with Andean ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting.
  • Cultural Insights: Gain deeper understanding of Cusco’s history, architecture, and cultural fusion through guided interpretation of key monuments and local culinary traditions.
Day 11
  • Palcoyo Rainbow Mountains: Walk to a viewpoint showcasing three vibrantly colored mountains set against the iconic Ausangate Glacier in a serene, less-traveled area.
  • Andean Highlands Journey: Scenic drive through highland villages, grazing alpacas, golden ichu grasses, and historical Inca and colonial bridges.
  • Gourmet Lunch at Unu Restaurante: Savor contemporary Peruvian cuisine made from native ingredients, celebrating Andean flavors with elegant presentation.
Day 12
  • Transfer from your hotel to Cusco airport.
  • Guide assistance with luggage and check-in formalities
Itinenary Map
Day 1

Arrival in Lima | Welcome to Peru

Upon your arrival in Lima, you will be warmly welcomed at the airport and smoothly transferred to your hotel, beginning your Peruvian adventure in comfort and style.

Welcome to Lima, a vibrant coastal city where history, culture, and gastronomy come together. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Lima offers a unique blend of colonial heritage and modern life, with charming neighborhoods, impressive architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, making it the perfect starting point for your journey through Peru.

Peru’s capital is a fantastic city to tour, dotted with a multitude of cultural sites and beautifully preserved architecture. Founded by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima was first named ‘City of Kings’ – a biblical reference to the ‘Three Wise Men of the East’ – before its name was changed by the Spanish colonialists. The most significant historical buildings are located around the Plaza Mayor, the most notable being the Government Palace, where one can still observe the changing of the guard performed by the Húsares de Junín. The beautiful Cathedral and the various small palaces and colonial balconies also play also their part in the beauty of the city.

Meals
At leisure independent dining today to allow flexibility due to varying arrival schedules.

Hotel:
Innside Lima Miraflores, Lima

  • Dinner
Day 2

Lima Unveiled: A Journey through the City of Kings

Begin your Lima journey at Plaza San Martín, a grand early 20th-century square in the heart of the city, lively with monuments, artisans, and street performances. Continue to the Palacio de Gobierno del Perú in Plaza Mayor, the official residence of the President, featuring French-inspired neo-baroque architecture. Nearby, the Cathedral of Lima captivates with its 15 decorative chapels, vaulted ceilings, marble floors, and ornate wooden balconies.

Visit the Church of San Francisco, a late 17th-century baroque masterpiece with gilded altars, a historic monastery, and fascinating catacombs beneath. Enjoy a stroll through El Olivar de San Isidro Park, home to a 16th-century olive forest, a museum, a library, and tranquil natural surroundings. Explore Miraflores, a trendy district famous for its beaches, gardens, parks, and the scenic Malecon cliffside promenade. Conclude your day with a Cocktail Class at Hotel B, learning to craft the hotel’s signature Peruvian and Mediterranean drinks, all perfectly paired.

Enjoy a full day discovering Lima, the ‘City of Kings,’ in an experience carefully designed with years of expertise and guided by a seasoned local expert. Once the heart of Spanish power in South America, this journey through Peru’s fascinating capital will encompass both its historic center and its modern quarters.

Your exploration of the “Centro” will take you along streets lined with handsome wooden balconies, across attractive plazas with their imposing statues, past the country’s most important civic buildings, and into religious complexes full of gold, artistic treasures and traditions.

Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you into the country’s largest Cathedral, an important cultural and religious center during colonial times, home to an expansive collection of religious paintings, sculptures and liturgical objects. You will also visit the San Francisco Monastery, known for its Baroque and Neoclassical design, richly decorated altars, impressive, carved stone façade, and extensive underground crypts — a glimpse of Colonial-era burial methods.

You will discover the elegant district of San Isidro, where you will enjoy a peaceful stroll through El Olivar Park, a quiet green space with centuries-old olive trees, a contrast with the city’s vibrant pace. This place, once part of a colonial-era olive grove, is now a favorite among locals.

Your Lima discovery includes the charming district of Miraflores, with its ocean breezes, blooming gardens, welcoming parks, and artistic flair, the ideal neighborhood to stroll and explore with your local connoisseur to guide you.

Make a stop at Larco Herrera Museum, for an excellent overview of Peru’s ancient past as it holds the best private collection of pre-Columbian art in the country. You will get have the chance to tour through this old Hacienda House in the Pueblo Libre district, which was built upon a pre-Incan sacred site (huaca), housing the private collection of a great Peruvian scholar: Don Rafael Larco Hoyle.

The Larco Herrera Museum is one of the few museums in the world that allows such intimate access to its deposits, in this case around 45,000 pieces. Another attraction of the museum and of great interest to visitors is the exhibition of erotic pre-Colombian art.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Larco Museum restaurant, featuring the best of Peruvian and International cuisine, in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere surrounded by gardens.

After the day’s experience, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Expert Tips

  • Depending on the day of the week of your tour, the visit to the Cathedral will be changed for the Santo Domingo Convent. Known as an artistic jewel in the heart of the city, this convent captivates its visitors with its Colonial, Gothic and Baroque architecture, sacred relics, and centuries of Dominican tradition.

Hotel:
Innside Lima Miraflores, Lima

Day 3

Sacred Temple and the Peruvian Paso Horse

Venture just outside Lima to Pachacamac, where ancient sacred temples whisper stories of Inca and pre-Inca civilizations. After exploring the ceremonial complex, enjoy a cultural experience with the elegant Peruvian Paso horses, then relax and take in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes steeped in history.

With decades of expertise and work in Peru, this private excursion has been thoughtfully curated to highlight where ancient devotion meets living tradition. After picking you from your hotel, you will leave behind Lima’s coast and enter the Lurin Valley, where the Lurin River flows against a backdrop of desert ridges and green fields, creating the setting for the stories that have shaped this region for centuries.

In the company of your expert guide, explore Pachacamac, the great adobe sanctuary about 25 miles (40.23 kilometers) south of the city that was once a pilgrimage site that flourished around 600 to 900 AD. It remained a revered shrine even as it became an administrative hub for the Inca. Walk among pyramidal temples and walls that still display traces of ancient frescoes. Sense the scale and purpose of a sacred city created long before the Inca. An on-site museum adds context with carefully selected pre-Hispanic pieces.

Continue the experience at an hacienda in Lurin Valley, a private estate devoted to the Peruvian Paso horse. You will enjoy lunch here and learn the story of this emblematic breed and observe its famously smooth four-beat gait as trained horses perform in apero (traditional leather tack), guided by chalanes (expert riders) in classic attire.

Following this journey through Peru’s coastal treasures, you will be accompanied back to your hotel, bringing the day to a close.

Hotel:
Innside Lima Miraflores, Lima

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 4

Museums and Ancient Pyramids: A Journey Through Lima’s Legacy

Immerse yourself in Lima’s artistic soul and ancestral heritage on a full-day journey through the city. Stroll the colorful streets of Barranco, admire vibrant murals and historic architecture, and cross the iconic Puente de los Suspiros. Explore the Pedro de Osma Museum, home to exquisite colonial art and family heirlooms, then marvel at the ancient adobe terraces of Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores. Pause to savor contemporary Peruvian flavors for lunch, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy.

Crafted with years of experience in tourism throughout Peru, this full-day journey reveals Lima’s artistic soul and ancestral legacy. In the company of an expert guide, from the moment you leave your hotel until your return, in private transport, you’ll witness the city’s bohemian charm, colonial artistry, and pre-Columbian heritage.

You will explore Barranco, one of Lima’s most emblematic cultural districts and a historic refuge for poets, writers, and artists inspired by its streets. With its Republican-era architecture, vibrant murals, and bohemian vibe, Barranco blends history, art, and nightlife, showcasing Lima’s most creative side. Your tour will begin with a private hotel transfer followed by a stroll through its colorful streets, lined with houses and buildings that preserve the spirit of a bygone era, welcoming both locals and visitors alike.

Along the way, witness the emblematic Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), a wooden structure that, despite the passing of time, retains its original charm. Since 1876, this bridge has been the setting for countless stories and has become a favorite meeting spot for lovers, inspiring its poetic name and earning a special place in the city’s romantic memory.
Your day will include a visit to the Pedro de Osma Museum, the former residence of the Osma family, which houses one of the most important collections of colonial art in Peru. Stroll over its rooms admiring religious works from the Cusco School, portraits of viceroys, silverware, and the Osma family’s own heirlooms. The mansion, built in the early 20th century with French-inspired architecture in Peruvian classical style, also features well-maintained gardens for you to explore.

You will make your way to the Huaca Pucllana, a towering adobe terraced pyramid surrounded by the modern life of Miraflores. Built by the ancient cultures of what is now Lima, its stepped platforms and open plazas once served as a center for ceremonial rites and political power. The geometric precision of its construction and the warm tones of sunbaked clay reveal the craftsmanship of a civilization that defined the region long before the rise of the Incas. Here, you will pause for lunch and savor contemporary Peruvian flavors and views of the ancient construction.

Your guide will accompany you back to your hotel, concluding a day immersed in art, history, and the timeless beauty of Lima.

Hotel:
Innside Lima Miraflores, Lima

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 5

Flight from Lima to Cusco

You will be transferred from your hotel to the Lima Airport for your flight to Cusco.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representatives and transferred directly to the Sacred Valley, an intentional and carefully designed decision to support proper acclimatization. At 3,400 meters (11,150 ft), Cusco sits significantly higher than the Sacred Valley, which averages about 2,800–2,900 meters (9,200–9,500 ft). Descending immediately helps your body adjust more gradually to the altitude, improving sleep quality, energy levels, and overall comfort for the days ahead. Beginning in the Sacred Valley ensures that your Machu Picchu and Cusco experiences feel immersive and enjoyable rather than physically demanding.

To fully enjoy these thoughtfully curated stops along the way, your flight to Cusco should arrive no later than 9:00 AM, allowing for a relaxed and well-paced day.

Your first stop will be Pisac Ruins, dramatically perched above the valley. These impressive Inca terraces showcase advanced agricultural engineering and strategic urban planning, while offering sweeping views over the Urubamba River. Your guide will interpret the site’s ceremonial, military, and agricultural functions, deepening your understanding of how geography shaped Inca life and cosmology.

Below the ruins, you will explore the vibrant Pisac Market, where local artisans and farmers gather. More than a market visit, this is an opportunity to observe living Andean culture—handwoven textiles, silverwork, ceramics, and regional produce—reflecting a continuity between past and present.

You will then continue to Hacienda Huayoccari for a relaxed lunch in an elegant colonial estate overlooking the Sacred Valley. Surrounded by mountains and fertile farmland, the hacienda offers refined regional cuisine prepared with local ingredients. Its private art collection and serene gardens create a gracious setting for your first meal in the Andes, allowing you to settle into the rhythm of the valley before continuing to your boutique lodge for rest and acclimatization.

Hotel:
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 6

Salt and Terraces: Discover the Sacred Valley

Drawing on years of expertise in creating unforgettable Peruvian experiences, we offer a full-day tour to explore the Sacred Valley’s highlights: the Moray Terraces and the Maras Salt Pans. Your experienced guide will accompany you throughout, from hotel pickup to the end of the excursion.

You will witness a dazzling mosaic of white terraces cascading down the mountainside at the Maras Salt Pans. Fed by underground springs, these pools reflect sunlight in shifting tones of white and pink, creating a constant visual spectacle. Maras salt dates back thousands of years, carefully passed down through generations and meticulously managed by local families. Spread across roughly 5,000 pools, each about 53.8 square feet (5 square meters) in size. The terraces are nourished by mineral-rich water from a nearby creek.

In Moray, you’ll explore a series of circular terraces carved into natural depressions believed to have been used by the Inca to study agricultural conditions. These circular agricultural platforms form immense cone-shaped depressions that resemble giant fingerprints. Each level creates a distinct microclimate, showcasing the ingenuity of Inca farming techniques. The contrast between the geometric design and the surrounding mountains adds a striking visual element to the experience.

You will pause for an exceptional gourmet lunch at UNU Restaurant, an intimate and refined culinary space located in the heart of the Sacred Valley near the historic church of Tiobamba.

Surrounded by sweeping Andean landscapes, open skies, and the timeless beauty of the valley, UNU offers a sophisticated setting where contemporary design blends seamlessly with the authenticity of the region.

Here, you will enjoy a carefully crafted gastronomic experience that celebrates Peru’s rich culinary heritage. The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from the Sacred Valley, transformed through modern techniques into elegant interpretations of traditional flavors. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with a selection of fine wines or sparkling beverages to enhance the experience.
This memorable dining moment invites you to savor the natural abundance and culinary artistry of the Sacred Valley in an atmosphere of understated luxury and tranquility.

As you dine in this tranquil and culturally rich setting, surrounded by centuries of history and the quiet majesty of the Andes, the moment becomes more than a meal. It becomes an atmosphere. A pause. A memory shaped by beauty, exclusivity, and a profound sense of place.

This experience captures the essence of the Sacred Valley through its scenery, ancient Inca constructions, and local flavors. Your guide will accompany you until the end of a day full of meaningful discoveries.

Hotel:
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 7

Crafted by Time: Ollantaytambo and the Art of the Sacred Valley

This full-day tour invites you to explore two remarkable destinations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas: the artistic workshop of Pablo Seminario and the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, where terraced mountainsides and narrow cobbled streets preserve the ancient Inca design. An expert guide will accompany you throughout the day, meeting you at your hotel and providing private transportation as you embark on this journey of discovery.

Discover Ollantaytambo, which preserves the grandeur of an Inca fortress that dominates the valley. The perfectly fitted stones and stepped terraces showcase the skill of its builders. The town, known as a “living Inca town,” maintains its straight streets, water channels, and homes that follow the original layout. Daily life unfolds in the modern village along the valley beside the fortress.

You will stop by the Pablo Seminario Ceramic Workshop, where you will be able to observe creations in progress and, with a bit of luck, even meet the artist himself, Pablo Seminario, who, throughout the year, works primarily out of his studio. At the end of the visit, you will have the chance to browse the exhibition shop and perhaps take home one of his unique pieces.

Enjoy a refined countryside lunch at Manos Restaurant, nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Sacred Valley.

Set within beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounded by curated local art, this intimate culinary space offers a sophisticated interpretation of Andean gastronomy. Here, the flavors of the highlands are reimagined with contemporary technique and artistic presentation.

Each dish celebrates Peru’s native ingredients, from heirloom potatoes and organic valley produce to carefully sourced proteins and aromatic herbs grown nearby. Thoughtfully plated and seasonally inspired, the menu reflects both authenticity and innovation.

After experiencing the grandeur of the Incan fortress and the artistic value inside the Sacred Valley, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, reminiscing about today’s tour as you prepare to enjoy a well-deserved night of rest and comfort.

Hotel:
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 8

The Jewel of The Andes: Machu Picchu Revealed

Your adventure begins with a transfer from your hotel to the train station, where you will be assisted by a guide on your journey to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu aboard the distinguished Inca Rail 360°, an experience designed to immerse you in the grandeur of the Andes from the very first moment.

The 360° train features expansive panoramic windows along the sides and ceiling, offering uninterrupted views of the Urubamba River canyon, lush cloud forest landscapes, and dramatic mountain peaks rising in the distance. As the train gently winds through the Sacred Valley, the scenery unfolds in cinematic fashion.

On board, you will enjoy comfortable seating, attentive service, and a curated selection of gourmet snacks prepared with local ingredients, accompanied by beverages that enhance the journey. The ride itself becomes an integral part of your Machu Picchu experience, setting the tone for the awe that awaits.

On arrival at the small town of Aguas Calientes, you will be assisted by boarding the bus that climbs up through verdant forests in the shadow of huge cliffs, to the entrance of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas.

Located atop its namesake mountain, Machu Picchu ranks among the most iconic and celebrated examples of Inca architecture. The citadel was abandoned by the Incan Empire, reclaimed by the jungle and lost to humanity until its rediscovery in 1911 — today recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. In the company of your expert guide, you will explore key sites of the complex while gaining fascinating insights into the Inca civilization, construction techniques and beliefs.

Following your visit to the citadel, you will return to the town, where a lunch of Peruvian favorites and international dishes will be served at a local restaurant Cafe Inkaterra.

Expert Tips

  • Original passports must be carried on this journey.
  • Scheduled itinerary times will be shared at the beginning of the trip, with pickup times one day before the tour.
  • The round-trip train tickets and the bus tickets will be given to the passengers on the morning of the tour.

Hotel
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Day 9

Machu Picchu: Sunrise Exploration and Scenic

Begin your day with a serene morning in Machu Picchu, returning to the Lost City of the Incas for a second visit designed to deepen your understanding in the soft light of early day. As gentle mist moves through the surrounding peaks, the atmosphere feels quieter and more contemplative; an ideal moment to appreciate the scale, harmony, and intention behind Inca design.

Accompanied by your expert guide, you will explore additional sectors of the citadel, building on the context from your first visit. This experience emphasizes interpretation over pace, allowing time to reflect on Inca architecture, agricultural innovation, and the spiritual worldview embedded in the landscape. The unhurried rhythm provides opportunities for meaningful photography and personal connection with the site.

After your morning exploration, enjoy a delightful lunch at Qunuq Restaurant, located within the Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel. The restaurant offers a cozy and elegant ambiance with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The lunch typically features a selection of fresh, local ingredients, including Andean vegetables, grains like quinoa, and premium cuts of meat or fresh fish. Traditional Peruvian flavors are often combined with contemporary culinary techniques, offering a perfect balance between authenticity and sophistication.

Accompanied by a fine selection of beverages, this meal provides a welcoming and relaxing break after your morning adventure, allowing you to recharge while enjoying the serene mountain setting.

After lunch you will return aboard the Inca Rail 360°, allowing you to once again absorb the breathtaking Andean landscapes in relaxed elegance.

The journey back offers a quieter, reflective atmosphere, where shifting light across the mountains and river valleys provides a final visual farewell to this sacred region. Attentive onboard service and refined comfort ensure a seamless and pleasant return to the Sacred Valley.

More than transportation, this rail experience frames your visit with beauty, comfort, and thoughtful detail from beginning to end.

Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo Station, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and privately transferred to your hotel in Cusco.

Hotel
Casa Andina Premium Cusco

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 10

Casa Andina Premium Cusco

You’ll enjoy a guided tour of Cusco, the Imperial City, where you’ll admire the finest examples of Inca history and architecture. There’s no better way to explore Cusco’s signature cobblestone streets than by walking. Afterall, this is the archaeological capital of South America.

You’ll visit the city’s most important historical monuments that reveal the influence of different cultures: the Main Square; the Cathedral, which dates back to the time of the Spanish Viceroyalty, built in a Renaissance style with large red granite slabs contrasting the baroque-style interior silverwork; and Santo Domingo Church, built upon the foundation of the Inca temple of Koricancha, dedicated to the worship of the sun god.

After your guided exploration, you will enjoy lunch at Cicciolina, one of Cusco’s most beloved and sophisticated culinary gems.

Nestled within a beautifully restored colonial house near the Plaza de Armas, Cicciolina offers an intimate and stylish atmosphere where warm lighting, rustic stone walls, and refined details create a welcoming yet elegant setting.

The cuisine is a harmonious fusion of Mediterranean inspiration and Andean ingredients. Seasonal produce from nearby valleys, fresh herbs, artisanal cheeses, prime meats, and locally sourced vegetables are thoughtfully combined to create dishes that are both vibrant and beautifully balanced.
At the of lunch, you’ll return to your hotel.

Hotel
Casa Andina Premium Cusco

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 11

Where the Earth Turns Rainbow: Exploring Palcoyo

With years of expertise designing exceptional journeys throughout Peru, this full-day experience has been thoughtfully curated to reveal the quiet, vibrant majesty of the Palcoyo region.

Your private guide will greet you at your hotel and accompany you throughout this immersive exploration of a surreal Andean landscape defined by mineral-rich peaks, vast highland plains, and sweeping panoramic views. Unlike more frequented routes, Palcoyo offers a more serene and intimate encounter with nature, unveiling three rainbow-colored mountains set against the dramatic presence of the Ausangate Glacier, one of the most revered and iconic peaks in the Andes.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive deep into the Andean Highlands, where golden ichu grasses ripple in the wind and alpacas graze beneath expansive skies. Along the way, you will pause in Chacacupe, where your guide will introduce the fascinating history of ancient Inca and colonial bridges that once connected these remote territories.

Continuing onward, you will pass through Combapata, a quiet highland village, before traveling along a rural road that gradually ascends toward Palcoyo. As the paved highway disappears behind you, the landscape transforms. The earth itself begins to shift in tone and texture, revealing the extraordinary natural pigments that define this remarkable region.

A gentle 45-minute walk leads to the main viewpoint. Here, layered mountains unfold in striking shades of crimson, ochre, gold, and muted green. The stillness of the altiplano, the clarity of the mountain air, and the vastness of the surrounding scenery create an almost dreamlike atmosphere. You will have ample time to absorb the silence, capture photographs, and simply stand in awe of nature’s artistry.

Following your exploration, you will return to the city for a refined lunch at Unu Restaurante in Cusco. This contemporary culinary space celebrates Peru’s native ingredients with creative technique and elegant presentation. Seasonal produce from nearby valleys, Andean grains, and carefully sourced proteins are transformed into sophisticated dishes that honor tradition while embracing innovation. The warm ambiance and thoughtful service provide the perfect setting to relax and reflect on the morning’s adventure.

Your return drive continues to showcase the grandeur of the Andes, with sweeping vistas and remote landscapes accompanying you back to your hotel, concluding a day defined by color, serenity, and elevated exploration.

Expert Tips

  • Maximum altitude: approximately 16,076 feet (4,900 meters) above sea level.
  • Difficulty: Low to moderate. The walk lasts between 40 and 60 minutes along a well-maintained trail.
  • Acclimatization: It is recommended that you spend at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to the visit to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Hotel
Casa Andina Premium Cusco

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 12

Departure

At the appropriate time, our representative will meet you at the hotel lobby to be transferred back to the airport to board your next flight to Lima.

Our representative will assist you with check-in procedures and all departure formalities.

  • Breakfast
Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4

Innside Lima Miraflores, Lima

INNSiDE Lima Miraflores is nestled in the vibrant Miraflores district of Lima, Peru. Guests can choose from a variety of spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, minibars, hairdryers, and private bathrooms. The hotel boasts facilities such as a heated swimming pool, a fitness centre, and multiple dining options. Activities available include visiting nearby attractions like Kennedy Park, the Museum of the Nation, and the Peru Archaeology Museum.

Day 5, Day 6, Day 7

Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel

Located in the Sacred Valey of Cusco, Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel and Villas is ideally situated for easy access to the valleys attractions and incomparable Inca ruins, including the world-famous Machu Picchu. Accommodation consists of spacious rooms, suites and villas, each equipped with tea and coffee-making facilities, a television, a minibar, a desk and an in-room safe. Guests can enjoy dining at the onsite restaurant, unwind with a refreshing drink at the bar, or stay in and take advantage of the room service.

Day 8

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

This hotel is a luxurious eco-lodge nestled in the cloud forest at the base of Machu Picchu, set on 12 acres of lush gardens and native forest. The hotel features charming Andean-style cottages that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering a serene retreat with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy nature trails, guided birdwatching, a spa, and gourmet dining that highlights local ingredients and traditional flavors with contemporary flair. Its unique location allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Peruvian highlands while being just a short distance from the entrance to the iconic Inca citadel.

Day 9 , Day 10 , Day 11

Casa Andina Premium Cusco

Casa Andina Premium Cusco is a beautiful 17th-century mansion located just 5 minutes from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco and a few steps from the city’s main tourist attractions. Accommodation consists of 93 spacious guest rooms and suites, each equipped with air conditioning, a television, minibar and an in-room safe. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, unwinding with a refreshing drink at the bar, or staying in and taking advantage of the room service. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi access and a 24-hour reception. Massage services are also available.

Inclusions

Small group of minimum 4–16 guests

Guaranteed departures with a minimum of 4 people.

All accommodations:

4 nights in Lima at Innside Lima Miraflores

3 nights in the Sacred Valley at Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel

1 night in Machu Picchu at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

3 nights in Cusco at Casa Andina Premium Cusco

All specially curated restaurants and meals as indicated (B/L/D), including:

Airport transfers in Lima and all in-country transportation

Professional English-speaking local guide throughout the trip

Cultural and historical experiences, including:

Guided Lima city tour and exploration of its historic center

Pisac Ruins and Pisac Market

Moray Terraces and Maras Salt Pans

Ollantaytambo Fortress and Pablo Seminario Workshop

Guided Machu Picchu visit

Cusco city tour: Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, Koricancha / Santo Domingo Church

Entrance fees to all mentioned sites

Bottled water during travel days

Tour coordination and 24/7 in-country and USA support

Exclusions

International flights to/from Peru.

Optional activities or upgrades not listed in the itinerary

Travel insurance (strongly suggested)

Visa fees (if applicable)

Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone/internet)

Alcoholic beverages unless specified

Tips for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)

Peru Travel Fact Sheet

    • Capital: Lima
    • Official Language: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara
    • Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
    • Time Zone: UTC -5
    • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
    • Most nationalities do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 183 days.
    • Ensure your passport is stamped upon entry.
    • Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies (for rural areas), and routine immunizations.
    • Yellow Fever vaccine recommended if traveling to the Amazon region.
    • Malaria prophylaxis may be needed in jungle areas.
    • Altitude sickness is a risk in Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Andean regions.
  • Season Months Avg. Temp (°C/°F) Notes
    Summer Dec – Mar 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) Warm, rainy in highlands
    Autumn Apr – May 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) Mild, dry season begins
    Winter Jun – Aug 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) Dry season in Andes, cooler in Lima
    Spring Sep – Nov 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F) Pleasant, shoulder season
    • Layered clothing for varying climates (coastal, Andes, Amazon).
    • Warm clothing for high-altitude areas.
    • Rain jacket for wet season.
    • Comfortable walking shoes and hiking boots.
    • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
    • Power adapter (Type A, B, C plugs, 220V).
    • First aid kit and altitude sickness medication.
    • Main international airport: Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima)
    • Domestic flights: Domestic flights connect Lima with Cusco, Arequipa, Iquitos, and other major cities
    • Air travel is the primary means of connecting major regions for tourists.
    • Voltage: 220V, Frequency: 60Hz
    • Plug types: Type A, B, C
    • Universal adapters recommended.
    • Restaurants: 10% if not included.
    • Guides: $10–20 per person/day.
    • Drivers: $5–10 per person/day.
    • Hotels: Small tips for housekeeping and porters.
    • Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned and diverse.
    • Staples include ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa.
    • Andean dishes feature quinoa, potatoes, and corn.
    • Chicha morada (purple corn drink) and Pisco Sour are popular beverages.
    • Excellent vegetarian and vegan options in urban centers.
    • Respect indigenous traditions and local communities.
    • Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
    • Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred sites.
    • Bargaining is common in markets, but always remain polite.
    • ATMs widely available in cities; cash needed in rural areas.
    • Internet access common in towns and hotels.
    • Spanish is the main language; English spoken in tourist areas.
    • Prepare for altitude changes when traveling in the Andes.