Peru Highlights

For anyone looking for the ultimate tour to Peru, this 11-day itinerary is a must. Featuring the contents of our popular weeklong Classic Peru tour with an added extension to the Amazon rainforest, this tour covers the highlights of this amazing country. With the colonial city of Cusco, majestic Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and the Amazon, you’ll have a lifetime of memories from this tour. Upgrades to the ultra-deluxe Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu as well as the ultra-luxe Aqua and Aria Amazon river cruises are available to make this trip truly unforgettable.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Peru (-)

Upon arrival at Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport you will be warmly welcomed by a Blue World Journeys representative and escorted to your hotel by private car. You’ll probably be tired after the long journey, so enjoy the evening in your hotel, or if you have the energy, explore the local area, home to some of Lima’s best restaurants and nightlife.

Day 2 - Lima City Tour, Fly to Cusco (B)

After a leisurely breakfast in your hotel, you will be met by your guide and escorted on a half-day city tour of Peru’s capital. This highlight is Lima’s Historic Center, where the city’s most important historical, political and religious buildings can be found. Certified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the historic center features beautiful and unique architecture. The Art Museum, The Palace of Justice and The French Palace are truly awe-inspiring. The Plaza San Martin is home to an important monument that was constructed to celebrate Peru’s independence. Nearby, the Cathedral, the City Hall, the Archbishop’s Palace and the Palace of the Government overlook the huge Plaza Mayor. You will have time to walk around this lovely square before driving to the airport to board your afternoon flight to Cusco.

This evening take things easy as you acclimatize to Cusco’s 11,400-foot elevation and try one of the many great restaurants the city has to offer.

Day 3 - Sacred Valley Tour (B,L)

As Cusco was considered to be the navel of the world by the Inca, the Sacred Valley was its breadbasket and the river Urubamba (one of the headwaters of the Amazon) that flows through it the lifeblood. This is and astonishing and beautiful valley. Its warm climate and sun baked, red granite hills have always been ideal for agriculture, and being lower than Cusco, it’s a welcome respite from the altitude as you acclimatize.

We begin our tour at the artisan market town of Pisac, where you will be able to shop for local souvenirs if you wish. A visit to Ollantaytambo, an important Inca archaeological site follows, before touring through Chinchero, an Andean village located on a high plain with lovely views over the surrounding mountains, and known to the Incas as the birthplace of the rainbow.

Day 4 - Machu Picchu (B,L)

An early start is necessary today for an unforgettable trip to one of the most spectacular historical sites anywhere in the world. You will be escorted to the train station a short drive outside Cusco before boarding your luxurious ‘Vistadome’ train (ultra-deluxe Hiram Bingham train upgrade available) for the three-hour journey to the town of Aguascalientes. After lunch on arrival you will enjoy a private, guided 3-hour tour of the spectacular ruins. Machu Picchu has to be seen to be believed. It retains an awe-inspiring grandeur and add the genius of Inca architecture built in perfect harmony with the earth and skies, and it’s no surprise that it’s officially among the New Seven Wonders of the World. Following this unforgettable tour, you will return by train to Cusco.

Day 5 - Cusco City Tour, Afternoon at Leisure (B)

This morning you will have a private, guided tour of Cusco. Known by the Inca as the navel of the world, this city has great significance in Inca history and is the site of many interesting attractions. Your tour will include the Plaza de Armas, overlooked by the city’s baroque cathedral, the temple and church of Coricancha, where the foundations of the Inca Sun Temple, once covered with plates of solid gold are now the site of a Dominican church; as well as the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a fortress of huge stone blocks weighing hundreds of tons that was the scene of the Inca's final battle against the Spanish in 1536. This afternoon and evening will be at your leisure to enjoy the city, a delight to stroll around the streets and admire the colonial architecture.

Day 6 - Andean Explorer Train to Lake Titicaca (B,L)

Today you will have the unique experience or riding the deluxe Andean Explorer train to Lake Titicaca. During the journey you will witness the changing landscapes from high mountains, through valleys and passes and finally to the altiplano of eastern Peru, home to the stunning Lake Titicaca.

The train has been mentioned by the Society of International Railway Travelers as one of the best rail journeys in the world. Decorated in the style of the great Pullman cars of the 1920s, the Andean Explorer is a very luxurious train featuring five star dining in exquisite dining cars, as well as a beautifully furnished indoor/outdoor observatory car from which you will be able to enjoy the splendor of the Andean scenery on this ten hour journey. A full lunch is served en-route, as well as afternoon tea and entertainment including a fashion show of local clothing.

Day 7 - Lake Titicaca Cruise (B,L)

Another unforgettable day awaits as you explore the world’s highest navigable lake. Titicaca seems more like an ocean than a lake, as the intensely blue waters, up to 800 feet deep stretch to the far horizon punctuated by the snowy peaks of Bolivia’s Andes on the far side of the lake.

Today’s tour begins with a short boat ride to the unique floating islands of Uros. These islands are made of tótora (reeds), which are cut and piled up to form giant floating islands that are anchored in the shallows of the lake. There are hundreds of these, each inhabited by one to several families, surrounded by spectacular scenery. Another hour by boat from here is the island of Taquile, where you will enjoy a rare glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people who inhabit this island, and whose craft is a unique and intricate style of weaving. Returning to your hotel in the late afternoon, you will have the evening at your leisure.

Day 8 - Welcome to the Jungle! (B,D)

This morning you will fly from Juliaca, approximately an hour drive from your hotel to Puerto Maldonado, with a quick plane change in Cusco. Upon arrival you will transfer to your comfortable motorized boat to transfer to your jungle lodge (45 mins to 2 hours depending on the lodge). This afternoon you will have the opportunity to search the waterways for giant otters, caimans and do some birdwatching from the safety of a guided boat tour. After dinner, enjoy a guided night walk to experience the sights and sounds of the jungle after dark.

Day 9 - Jungle Activities (B,L,D)

Starting the day with a hearty breakfast, you will then visit a nearby clay lick, where if you’re lucky you will see hundreds of colorful parrots and parakeets converging to feed. Then wander along a fascinating ethno-botanical trail in order to learn about many of the rainforest plants that are used in modern medicine. This afternoon, a visit to a local farm will giver you an interesting insight into the secrets and challenges of farming exotic fruits in the jungle.

Day 10 - Jungle Activities (B,L,D)

Get active after breakfast and follow a jungle trail to a part of the forest that is full of Brazil nut trees. Here you will learn about the harvesting and collection of this crop, which is very important to the farmers living in the region. This afternoon walk along another jungle trail, spotting wildlife pointed out by your guide to learn the difference between primary and secondary growth forest. After returning to the lodge relax on the riverbank and watch the water drift by as you contemplate your surroundings.

Day 11 - Farewell to Peru (B)

After breakfast a fast-motorized boat will take you back to Puerto Maldonado where you will board your flight to Lima connecting to your international flight home.

Lima - Luxury - Casa Andina Private Collection

Located in the fashionable Miraflores district of Lima, the Casa Andina has been recently updated in a classic ‘Limeño’ style and features an exquisite collection of contemporary local artwork.

With 155 modern and luxurious rooms and suites and a fantastic location in the heart of Lima’s most vibrant zone, the Casa Andina Private Collection is one of the city’s leading four-star hotels.

Lima - Deluxe - JW Marriott Lima

Each of the JW Marriott’s 300 luxurious guestrooms features a beautiful panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from the cliffs of Lima’s exciting Miraflores district. Housed in an impressive 25-story glass tower, this is one of Lima’s most desirable five star luxury hotels, featuring all the amenities and services that travelers have come to expect from this world-renowned chain.

Cusco - Luxury - Casa Andina Private Collection

Housed in a beautifully refurbished 18th century mansion and featuring four lovely colonial courtyards, the Casa Andina is located only a few minutes’ walk from the main square. Its 93 tastefully decorated and modern rooms have king size beds and stylish furnishings. This hotel makes an excellent base for visiting Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Cusco - Deluxe - Marriott Cusco

One of the highest rated hotels in Peru by our clients; the Marriott Cusco is located mere steps from the city’s main square. Built on top of ancient Incan ruins, in a restored 16th century convent, the hotel features 153 luxuriously furnished guestrooms, offering marble bathrooms, courtyard views and sumptuous furnishings.

Lake Titicaca - Luxury - Casa Andina Private Collection

Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Titicaca, a short drive from the center of the town of Puno, this intimate hotel offers 45 rooms, many with a direct view of the lake. Its peaceful location makes for a great base for visiting the highlights of the area.

Lake Titicaca - Deluxe - Libertador Lago Titicaca

Located on a private island connected to the mainland via a causeway, the Libertador is Puno’s leading hotel. With unrestricted lake views from all over the hotel, sunrises and sunsets here are unforgettable. The hotel’s 123 modern guestrooms feature spectacular views over the lake, and the hotel’s location offers guests a high level of privacy.

Amazon Jungle - Luxury - Casa del Sol Boutique Hotel

Located within the territory of the indigenous Infierno Community, two hours by boat from Puerto Maldonado, the Posada Amazonas sits adjacent to the Tambopata National Reserve. All 30 rooms are simply furnished and feature private bathrooms with warm water. One wall of each room is ‘open’ to the sights and sounds of the jungle, while mosquito nets drape over the beds. There is no electricity in the rooms, with lighting provided by candles and kerosene lamps.

Amazon Jungle - Deluxe - Inkaterra El Pueblo

Located on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, 45 minutes from Puerto Maldonado, this is the region’s most luxurious jungle lodge. The lodge’s 35 thatched bungalows feature private bathrooms with hot water (a rarity in the jungle), fans and a private hammock area. A generator provides lighting for several hours a day during the morning and night, while kerosene lamps and candles are available for lighting at all times.

Pricing

Price From $3995 per person (Luxury Hotels), or $4495 per person (Deluxe Hotels), for a private tour based on two people traveling in low season sharing a room.

Hotels listed on the Hotels Tab are given as suggestions only to illustrate the standard of hotels used.

Price Includes:

All hotels as described in the itinerary
Services of Blue World Journey’s representatives while in Peru
All transportation and tours as described in the itinerary in a private air-conditioned vehicle with an English speaking driver / guide
Domestic flights Lima - Cusco, Puno-Puerto Maldonado and Puerto Maldonado
Luxury Vistadome train to/from Machu Picchu
Deluxe Andean Explorer train from Cusco to Lake Titicaca
Sightseeing and entrance fees
Meals as described in the itinerary

Price Excludes:

International flights
Travel insurance
Meals other than those listed in the itinerary
Gratuities for guides and drivers
Sightseeing other than described in the itinerary
Additional room charges of a personal nature in hotels (eg: room service, laundry, phone calls, etc.).

UPGRADES / EXTENSIONS

1. Ultra-Luxe Amazon River Cruise (replaces Jungle Lodge)

Day 8 - Welcome to the Jungle! (B,D)

This morning your will board a flight to Lima, connecting to the jungle city of Iquitos. Here you will be met on arrival and escorted to the luxury Aria vessel. Following a safety briefing you will meet your naturalist guides and learn more about the program for the next few days. Enjoy a delicious dinner, then relax on the upper deck lounge as you watch the city receding as you enter the jungle.

Day 9 - Iguana Island (B,L,D)

Get up early to watch the sunrise over the mighty Amazon River before breakfast. This morning you will visit Yacapana Island, also known as Iguana Island. Here you’ll see the animals that gave the island its name, as well as trying your hand at piranha fishing. After lunch, board one of Aria’s skiffs in search of grey and pink river dolphins. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over the jungle before enjoying a delicious dinner on board.

Day 10 - Yanallpa (B,L,D)

After breakfast this morning, you’ll be escorted on an excursion to Yanallpa. This is a small river that floods the rainforest during the rainy season and depending on the time of the year, you will find a variety of different animals and plants to view. Following lunch on board you continue with your exploration of this area, looking out for monkeys, dolphins and the large numbers of birds that call this are home. When dusk sets in, you will search for caimans by flashlight.

Day 11 - Farewell to Peru (B)

After breakfast you will return to Iquitos airport where you will board your flight to Lima connecting to your international flight home.

2. Ultra-Luxe Hiram Bingham Deluxe Train

One of the great railway journeys of the world, the Hiram Bingham train is named after the explorer who rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911.

For many people a visit to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. Traveling between Cusco and Machu Picchu on the Hiram Bingham is truly an amazing experience. With accommodations for only 84 passengers, the train is decorated and furnished in the style of 1920s Pullman carriages, with large, comfortable chairs and polished brass and wood paneling. The two dining cars are luxurious areas set with fine crystal and silverware, where you will enjoy a gastronomic dinner prepared by a team of on board chefs.

A bar car is a great place to enjoy a cocktail accompanied by live Peruvian music and dance, while the observation car is a perfect place to get comfortable in one of the large cushioned seats as the majestic Peruvian landscape unfolds before you.

3. Optional Extension to the Galapagos Islands

To make your journey to South America truly complete, you can easily combine a trip to Peru with a 4, 5 or 7 night cruise to the amazing Galapagos Islands. Following your tour around Peru, you will fly from Lima to the Galapagos Islands to join your luxury cruise.

The Galapagos has to be seen to be believed. Nowhere else on Earth can you get so close to nature in an environment where the animals have no fear whatsoever of humans.

Walk amongst sea lions basking on the beach; watch your step as you walk around islands that are literally covered with Galapagos land and sea iguanas. Underwater is another world. Don a mask and snorkel and be amazed at the experience of swimming with sea turtles and sea lions in their natural environment.

We work with a number of luxury cruise companies operating in the Galapagos Islands, and we will find the right cruise to meet your requirements.

Alternatively, if cruising is not for you, we also offer land-based island hopping tours of the islands. Please contact us for further details.