Luxury Peru Explorer
Travelling to South America doesn’t always mean backpacking: on this 13-day tour of Peru you’ll stay in luxury hotels throughout, in some of the most privileged locations. Imagine waking up just a few kilometres from the site of Machu Picchu, travelling overnight on the continent’s most exclusive sleeper train, or looking out across the Pacific Ocean from a chic oceanside retreat. This holiday ticks off all of Peru’s key sights, from the vibrant modern capital of Lima to the ancient Inca capital, Cusco. You’ll see Machu Picchu, Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca, all on one incredible journey.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Travel on board a luxurious sleeper train, a first for South America
- Look out over the ruins of Machu Picchu and the condors of Colca Canyon
- Stay in luxurious accommodation throughout your trip
- Explore the cities of Lima, Cusco and Arequipa
- Enjoy immersive tours with knowledgeable guides
ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrive in Peru
Fly to Peru and land in the capital city, Lima. On arrival you will be driven to your hotel in the city, Belmond Miraflores Park. This luxurious oceanside retreat is located in a clifftop plaza in the residential district of Miraflores, with lots of restaurants nearby and a pleasant walk to the neighbouring quarter of Barranco.
Day 2 – Explore Lima
Lima is a vibrant and culture-filled capital, located on the Pacific Ocean. The historic heart of the city is comprised of a well-preserved colonial centre, including grand Plaza de Armas and the 16th-century cathedral. On a half-day city tour you’ll have the opportunity to explore its colourful streets; we’d recommend spending the afternoon trying some of the city’s fantastic restaurants.
Day 3 – Fly to Cusco
Once the capital of the ancient Inca Empire, Cusco was renowned for its setting close to the fertile farmland of the Sacred Valley, gaining it the nickname the ‘bellybutton of the world’. On arrival in Cusco you’ll be collected from the airport and driven to Belmond Rio Sagrado, overlooking the Urubamba River. This chic retreat is the ideal place to rest before continuing your journey to Machu Picchu, with its beautiful gardens, spa and heated outdoor pool. Activities on offer include horse riding, mountain biking and canoeing.
Day 4 – Discover the Sacred Valley
The verdant Sacred Valley of the Incas is located in the Andean Highlands and forms part of the ancient Inca Empire, along with Cusco and Machu Picchu. The fertile valley is dotted with tiny colonial villages, small farms and handicraft markets. You’ll get to visit the key sights on a full-day tour of the valley with an expert guide.
Day 5 – Visit Machu Picchu
Travel in style on board the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu. With its panoramic windows overlooking the stunning scenery along the way, you’ll get striking views across the mountains on your way up to the ancient Inca citadel. On arrival you’ll be blown away with a tour of the ruins, walking in the footsteps of the Inca people as you learn about the terraces and remains of buildings that make up the site. Overnight you’ll stay at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, just a four-minute walk from the train station and set within five hectares of gardens. The hotel resembles a small village, with luxury rooms, suites and villas – some with terraces, plunge pools and fireplaces.
Day 6 – Travel on the Hiram Bingham train
Today you will depart from Machu Picchu and return to Poroy on board the luxury Hiram Bingham train. The 1920s-style carriages hark back to the golden age of travel with comfortable armchairs to sink into and an observation deck from which to watch the beautiful scenery as you travel. The striking blue and gold livery stands out against the verdant green landscapes, and inside polished wood and antiques set the scene. Trade stories with fellow travellers over a Pisco Sour, dine on traditional Andean cuisine and dance to the exuberant music of Peru. On arrival you will be driven to the Belmond Monasterio in Cusco
Day 7 – Tour Cusco
A half-day city tour will illuminate the ancient centre and surrounding ruins of Cusco, including Sacsayhuaman and the terraces of Moray.
Days 8-10 – Belmond Andean Explorer
You will be driven to the train station to board Belmond Andean Explorer. The luxury locomotive launched in 2017 and offers a brand-new way to experience the Andes. Travelling by sleeper train means you can visit all of the landmarks on one journey, with the convenience of staying on board. Weaving through the Andes the train stops at local towns and Inca ruins, and on board the cuisine is remarkable and the service top-notch. You will stay overnight on board as you travel to Lake Titicaca. The following day you will be in prime position for a boat ride on the lake, with ample time to explore the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island. Back on board your journey continues to Colca Canyon, where you will disembark for your two-night stay at Belmond Las Casitas, a collection of rural stone cottages with secluded terraces and heated pools.
Day 12 – Drive to Arequipa
You will be driven to Arequipa through the beautiful scenery. On arrival you will check into Casa Andina Premium Arequipa; set within a former mint that dates back to 1794, this chic hotel is full of character and located just three blocks from the main plaza, so exploring is a breeze.
Day 13 – Return flight
For more information please contact us directly for a tailor-made travel quote.