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Machu Picchu & the Andes

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14 days From $4,295 $3,895 per person
4.3 stars(3 reviews)
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Discover the incredible ‘lost city of the Incas’ and the jewels of Peru on an unforgettable South American adventure through jaw-dropping scenery

Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Mobility Rating 4

2025 Tour code: PUJ25

About the tour

Mysterious Machu Picchu and the gleaming treasures of the Andes are unveiled on this unique South American adventure.

Uncover Lima, Peru's colorful and historic capital, and the shimmering 'White City' of Arequipa before heading high into the Andes to admire the breathtaking Colca Canyon, where majestic condors soar.

Sail to the reed islands of Lake Titicaca, home to welcoming indigenous peoples, and unwind on a scenic rail journey to Cusco on board the Titicaca Train. Marvel at the lost cities and spectacular temples of the Inca's Sacred Valley.

Unforgettable Experiences

Step back in time at the world-famous Machu Picchu
Step back in time at the world-famous Machu Picchu
Walk amongst the iconic lost city and its many Incan treasures, including the Temple of Three Windows and the sacred sundial, and marvel at the view of this breathtaking hilltop settlement.
View condors in the spectacular Colca Canyon
View condors in the spectacular Colca Canyon
Admire magnificent Andean condors as they soar majestically above the stunning Colca Canyon – the world’s second deepest canyon. Bask in astonishing vistas of the jaw-dropping ravine and learn about the culture of indigenous people.
Tour Peru’s picturesque towns and cities
Tour Peru’s picturesque towns and cities
On sightseeing tours led by knowledgeable local guides, learn about Lima’s colonial history, Arequipa’s beautiful Santa Catalina Monastery, the ancient Incan capital of Cusco, and the spiritual Andean town of Pisac.
Cruise to the unique islands of Lake Titicaca
Cruise to the unique islands of Lake Titicaca
Visit the floating Uros Islands constructed of reeds that are also used to build boats and houses. From here, sail on to UNESCO-listed Taquile to view colorful crafts and enjoy a traditional lunch.
Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas
From Machu Picchu in the north to Pisac in the south, the Urubamba River shelters many cherished Incan temples and cities. Uncover the most remarkable on visits to characterful Ollantaytambo and charming Chinchero.

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in the Peruvian capital, Lima

Your incredible discovery of Peru and the Andes gets under way as you touchdown in Lima.

On arrival, you transfer to our modern, four-star hotel in the Miraflores district of the Peruvian capital. Once known as the 'City of Kings', Lima is one of South America's most populus cities and has redefined itself as Latin America's trendiest food destination.

Set between the bustling John F Kennedy Park, renowned for its street vendors and resident cats, and the beaches along the Pacific Ocean, there is plenty to see and do near our hotel, even while lounging by the rooftop pool. We convene this evening in the hotel restaurant for our first meal together as a group.

Includes
  • Dinner
Day 2 - Discover Lima, the city of conquistadors

Lima was founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro and his band of Spanish conquistadors in an area originally home to the Ichma people. After breakfast, we set out to discover Lima for ourselves.

At the city's historic heart is a remarkably well-preserved UNESCO-listed center of colorful colonial buildings and the astounding yellow façade of the magnificent Basilica and Convent of San Francisco - the best example of Lima Baroque architecture. We explore the courtyards, catacombs and Mudéjar ceilings of the cloisters, made from Nicaraguan cedar. We walk to the nearby Casa de Aliaga, built in 1535 for one of Pizarro's fellow conquistadors. Richly painted, this is the oldest private house in the Americas and descendants of Aliaga still reside here.

Delving into Liman history before the arrival of the Spanish, we visit Huaca Pucllana, the remains of a pre-Incan pyramid that played a significant ceremonial role for the Lima Culture, and the astonishing Huaca Huallamarca pyramid. After lunch in a local restaurant, there is free time to continue exploring Lima - or relax by the Pacific shores near our hotel.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 - To the ‘White City’ of Arequipa

This morning, we take a short internal flight to the southern city of Arequipa. On the banks of the River Chili, Peru's second city is known as the 'White City' due to the striking volcanic stone - called sillar - that was used to construct many of its buildings.

After a lunch at a local restaurant, we get a panoramic overview of this attractive city and its volcanic surroundings from the Carmen Alto viewpoint where we begin a sightseeing tour. In the charming neighborhood of Yanahuara, we admire the gorgeous 18th-century Church of St John the Baptist with a beautifully ornate mestizo Baroque façade. Arequipa's main square - Plaza de Armas - is one of the most beautiful in South America. Lined on three sides by white-stone buildings with split-level arcades, the focus is drawn to the huge 17th-century cathedral. The stunning Compañia de Jesús Church, built in 1590, displays an incredibly intricately carved façade.

The rest of the day is at leisure, and you can relax at our attractive and central four-star hotel or stroll to a local restaurant for dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 - Santa Catalina Monastery and Arequipa at leisure

We enter an oasis of calm today on a guided tour of the remarkable Santa Catalina Monastery. This enormous Dominican complex was founded in 1579 and has since been gracefully refurbished with period features. There is time to explore the narrow streets, floral gardens and tranquil cloisters resembling a miniature walled colonial town in the center of Arequipa. Once populated by up to 500 nuns who each had their own servants, Santa Catalina is now home to about 20 nuns who live a much more pious existence.

After exploring the monastery's beautiful alleys and colorful courtyards, there is a free day to uncover Arequipa at leisure. Enjoy the graceful plazas of Peru's most beautiful city before indulging in popular local cuisine. From delicious fresh salads such as soltero de queso, the pork-based adobo stew and herbal ocopa sauce to well-regarded beers and the emblematic Pisco sour cocktail, Peruvian cuisine is making waves around the world - and Arequipa is a popular food destination even with Peruvians.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 5 - Crossing the pampas to the Colca Canyon

An otherworldly coach journey into the mighty Andes awaits today, passing breathtaking rugged hills and rocky ravines as we climb ever higher. In the vast open wilderness of the pampas, we stop at the National Reserve of Pampa Cañahuas, where alpacas and llamas roam the volcanic grasslands inhabited by indigenous peoples.

The lunar-like landscape continues as we pass by the Nevado Churura crater and, from the Mirador de los Andes and Mirador de Patapampa viewpoints, we can marvel at the string of volcanoes that surround Arequipa. We pause in the quaint village of Chivay which embraces its past with delightfully traditional stone buildings. A boxed lunch is provided which can be enjoyed in this attractive setting.

In nearby Yanque, we enter a small museum to learn about the history and costumes of the Colca Valley where we spend the night. Our hotel is surrounded by stunning mountains and there is time to unwind in the hot springs and thermal spas before a three-course dinner tonight.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - Admiring the condors of Colca Canyon

We wake up in the jaw-dropping surroundings of the outstanding Colca Canyon - the world's second-deepest canyon.

The canyon's natural beauty is experienced today as we travel by coach through a landscape of pristine mountains encircling a verdant valley of pre-Incan steeped terraces above the elemental Rio Colca. Our destination is the tantalizingly named Mirador Cruz del Cóndor (Condor Cross Viewpoint). Here, we can look for majestic Andean condors soaring above the mountains and plunging into the deep ravines. These iconic creatures are the largest flying birds in the world and can have a wingspan of up to nine feet.

Descending to the valley floor, we explore some of the picturesque rural villages along the Colca River, which may include Pinchollo, Maca, Achoma, and Yanque. Then we travel up to the Antahuilque and Choquetico viewpoints to take in more breathtaking views of the majestic valley.

Traveling onward to Puno after lunch, we can admire the high plains, unique rock formations and impressive lagoons. Later, we arrive at our hotel in Puno for a relaxing evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7 - Sailing to the floating islands of Titicaca

A highlight of our exploration of Peru awaits today as we set sail on Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Our first port of call is the Uros Islands. Home to the enterprising Uros people, these manmade floating isles were made by stacking layers of totora roots and reeds together. This pliable plant is also used to make houses as well as ornate boats.

Next, we sail on to Taquile, where the residents speak Quechua - an indigenous language that was used by the Incans. The locals have established an almost economically autonomous society based around sustainable tourism and long-held craft traditions. The island has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its handwoven textiles and clothing, and it is the male Taquileños who specialize in knitting while the women spin and dye the wool. We learn more about this fascinating island and enjoy lunch in a restaurant, before returning across Lake Titicaca to Puno for a free evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 - An Andean adventure on the Titicaca train

We embark on one of the world's most spectacular rail journeys today on the PeruRail Lake Titicaca train as we travel from Puno to the Incan capital of Cusco. A full-day experience sees us pass through a procession of amazing Andean scenes as we cross the Peruvian Highlands.

Equipped with numerous dining cars, a bar car and an observatory car with open-air viewing platform, the Titicaca train allows us to absorb the awe-inspiring Altiplano landscapes from the relaxing comfort of elegant 1920s Pullman-style carriages. En route, we enjoy a gourmet three-course lunch prepared with local ingredients and are further entertained with a traditional music and dance show.

The train pauses at the highest point, the La Raya Pass, which sits more than 14,000 feet above sea level. Here, we can view the small chapel or admire the jaw-dropping vistas of untouched nature.

Arriving in Cusco in the evening, we transfer to our charming four-star hotel. Just a short walk from the main square, the hotel is set within an attractive 17th-century colonial mansion.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 - Exploring the ancient Incan capital of Cusco

As one of the most important Incan cities, Cusco is regarded as the 'Archaeological Capital of the Americas'. Beautifully blending indigenous and colonial Spanish architecture, we enjoy a guided tour of this fascinating city.

The Incan Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha) was constructed in the 15th century and became the empire's most important temple. Meaning 'golden courtyard' in Quechua, it was originally covered in 700 sheets of solid gold each weighing more than 4lbs and contained more shimmering treasures inside. However, its gems were looted by Spanish conquistadors and much of the stone was used to construct the adjoining Santo Domingo convent. We also visit the astonishing Sacsayhuamán fortress - the largest structure built by the Incas - and the well-built walls of gargantuan, finely cut rocks so precisely hewn that there was no need for mortar. There is plenty of mystery surrounding how these colossal rocks were put in place.

After viewing the grand colonial cathedral that took more than a century to build, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before the rest of the day is free.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10 - Lost city of Machu Picchu by rail

One of the most enchanting locations in the world and founded around 1450, Machu Picchu was abandoned in 1572 and 'lost' until explorer Hiram Bingham became the first non-Peruvian to rediscover it in 1911.

Our journey to this breathtaking citadel begins as we leave Cusco early this morning by train for Aguas Calientes. This scenic route winds through the remote Urubamba River valley - also known as the Sacred Valley. From Aguas Calientes, we board a coach to magnificent Machu Picchu spectacularly nestled on a saddle between two dramatic mountains. We explore the mind-blowing 'lost city of the Incas' with a local guide who explains the origins of the approximately 200 buildings in this mountainous sanctuary. Along the way, we view the citadel, main square, royal quarters and Temple of Three Windows as well as the sacred sundial.

This evening, we return by train to Ollantaytambo and continue to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, where we have a three-course dinner tonight.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 - Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley

Our day begins with a coach excursion to Chinchero, an authentic Andean town with great views of the Sacred Valley - one of Peru's most important locations. Renowned for the preservation of traditional crafts as well as archaeological remains, we explore its market, observe a demonstration of Andean weaving and visit the first Catholic church in Peru on a guided tour of the town.

After lunch in a local restaurant, we return to Ollantaytambo for a guided tour of this town at the center of the royal Incan estate. This archetypal Andean town exudes character as well as a long history. The ancient fortress, although in ruins, is a sight to behold with important features such as the Sun Temple and Princess Baths fountain. In the Old Town, we discover an Inca-era grid of cobblestoned streets and adobe buildings sheltered by the surrounding mountains rich with ancient ruins and sweeping views.

We return to our hotel for an evening at leisure.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12 - Journey into the Andes to Pisac

Today we follow the course of the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley to mysterious and spiritual Pisac. Reputedly built to protect the valley's southern entrance, the dramatic Inti Watana complex nestles on the saddle of a hill above the town and appears like a smaller version of Machu Picchu. We explore this ancient Incan town with a guide, seeking out the ritualistic 'intihuatana' stone. Literally translated, 'intihuatana' means 'hitching post of the Sun' and the Incas used this stone as an astrological clock.

Pisac is also famed for its impressive terraces cut into the side of mountains. Believed to represent the wings of a partridge (from where it is suspected that Pisac gets its name) these are masterpieces of agriculture, allowing the Incans to cultivate crops in such a challenging landscape. In the colonial town, we visit the fabulous market and craft stalls selling textiles. There is time to have lunch independently before we transfer to Cusco and check in to our four-star hotel for the final two nights of our holiday.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 13 - Free day in Cusco and final dinner

Your final full day in Peru is free to explore Cusco, once capital of the Inca empire. Archaeological sites, marketplaces and museums are just a few of the attractions in this ancient city, surrounded by the imposing presence of the Andes. The Cusco Regional History Museum contains Incan relics and art from the Spanish colonizers, while the Inca Museum houses 3D models of Machu Picchu along with Inca artifacts.

The colonial hub of Cusco is the Plaza del Armas, overlooked by the imposing cathedral. Just above the center is a pretty, bohemian area, named San Blas. This colorful quarter features characterful painted houses set among narrow streets. Here, you can sample local flavors at a variety of cafés, offering French, Italian, American and Andean cuisine. You could also visit the viewpoint where Cusco's smaller version of Rio's statue of Christ, Cristo Blanco, stands. Designed by local artist Francisco Olazo Allende as a symbol of protection, it was a gift from Cusco's Palestinian community, who took refuge here after World War Two.

This evening, we enjoy our final dinner at the hotel.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Pisac Ruins and Terraces
Day 14 - Homeward bound

Peru and the Andes have provided many unforgettable experiences that will live long in the memory. From the jaw-dropping majesty of Machu Picchu and the mysterious Sacred Valley to stunning Cusco, the welcoming capital of the evocative Incas. We have also explored the splendour of condors flying above the dramatic Colca Canyon, sailed to the reed islands of Lake Titicaca and discovered the thriving and historical cities of Lima and Arequipa.

After a morning at leisure to continue exploring this spectacular city or purchase some last-minute souvenirs of your Andean adventure, we transfer to Cusco airport for our internal flight back to the capital.

Here, your vacation comes to an end and you are free to board your flight home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, Colca Valley

Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, Colca Valley

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Costa del Sol Wyndham Hotel, Cusco

Costa del Sol Wyndham Hotel, Cusco

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Sonesta Posadas del Inca, Yucay

Sonesta Posadas del Inca, Yucay

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Hilton Garden Inn Miraflores, Lima

Hilton Garden Inn Miraflores, Lima

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Hotel Costa del Sol Wyndham, Cusco

Hotel Costa del Sol Wyndham, Cusco

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Hampton by Hilton, Arequipa

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Sonesta Posada del Inca, Puno

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Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel, Urubamba

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Train

PeruRail Titicaca Train

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Reviews

4.3 stars4.3 / 5 · 3 reviews

  1. 5 stars
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Lawrence Thompson

5 stars

Submitted 22 Oct 2024

just a wonderful immersive experience Thanks VBR

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SMITH, ALAN KENNETH

5 stars

Submitted 03 Jul 2023

The tour was well put together and Laura, our guide, was excellent.

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LT

3 stars

Submitted 28 Jun 2023

The tour guide was excellent and went above and beyond the call of duty. The reservation process was terrible. We were not given updates on changes in a timely manner. Information on the meetup time should be provided earlier so that flights can be arranged in coordination with the meetup time and place. Two weeks before departure is not enough time to get a reasonably priced airline ticket. The level of activity should be specified in the description of the trip. The description was too general and should include more detail. Given the altitude level, additional information should have been provided on health recommendations based upon the high altitude levels.

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