11-Day Peru Grand Journey: Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca & Cusco
Experience Peru at its most on this 11-day tailored journey through its cultural and natural highlights. Begin with Lima, the capital of the country. Moreover, get to know Arequipa, one of Peru’s most elegant cities, known as the 'White City' due to the large proportion of weathered volcanic rock used in its construction. Explore historical centres, visit volcanic peaks, appreciate churches, former monasteries and museums. Travel to Colca Canyon to discover even more awesome scenery as the canyons plunge down to the depths of the Earth. Don't miss your opportunity to watch Andean condors glide effortlessly on the thermal winds, their wings spread wide as they glide towards the base of the canyon. Take a day trip to Uro Island to become familiarised with isolated native cultures that still inhabit the region. Board the exclusive Titicaca train in Puno en route for Cusco. Visit the fascinating Sacred Valley on route to Machu Picchu as this incredible tour of Peru introduces you to a variety of amazing sights.
What's included
Itinerary
On arrival in Lima you will be met by your private driver and transferred directly to your hotel which is just a few minutes from the airport. The rest of the afternoon is then at leisure and you are able to relax and familiarize yourself with the local conditions. Lima provides the perfect introduction to Peru with its fascinating mix of history, culture and food.
Start the day with a guided walking tour through the UNESCO protected Historical Center of Lima, understanding the complex colonial past of the city. The walk will make its way through the Main Square and be in front of iconic buildings including the Archbishop's Palace, Saint Francisco Monastery and more. In the evening get a taste of local specialties and Pisco cocktails at the pre-Incan ruins of Huaca Pucllana. Finish the night with a leisurely stroll through Lima's trendy bohemian neighborhood Barranco.
Fly to Arequipa, known as the ‘White City’ due to its beautiful colonial buildings made of volcanic rock. Upon arrival, your guide will take you on a tour of the city, including the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery, which resembles a city within a city. Explore Arequipa's charming streets and enjoy panoramic views of the city surrounded by three impressive volcanoes.
Take a scenic drive to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. On the way, stop at viewpoints such as Mirador de los Andes for breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Reach Chivay and relax in the natural hot springs before heading out early the next morning for a visit to the Condor Viewpoint. Watch the majestic Andean condors fly above the canyon, a truly awe-inspiring experience.
After breakfast, drive to Puno, the ‘Peruvian Switzerland’ on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. During the journey you can admire the fantastic landscapes of the Andean highlands. Once there, you will have time to visit the hotel and later you will embark on an exciting cruise on the surface of the lake. You will discover the unique floating islands of Uros. The people of this area built their homes and roads on huge floating islands made of water plants. As part of the visit, you will have the possibility to live for a while with these interesting indigenous people.
This morning travel by boat to the beautiful island of Taquile where you will be able to appreciate the local tradition of the Quechua-speaking community. During a moderate hike you can enjoy stunning landscapes and visit several local communities where you can admire and learn about their textile traditions, even their indigenous customs. The village is known for its wonderful weavings that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, return to Puno.
This morning, take the luxury Titicaca Train from Puno to Cusco. As you travel through the high plains of the Andes, enjoy panoramic views from the observation car while enjoying some gourmet meals. The train ride includes entertainment and cultural performances, making it a delightful journey. Arrive in Cusco in the evening, where your driver will transfer you to your hotel.
Start the day with a visit to Sacsayhuaman, a majestic Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. Learn about the Inca Empire’s history and military strategies as you explore the site. Afterward, drive through the Sacred Valley, stopping at Pisac to visit its impressive ruins and the colorful market. Continue to Ollantaytambo, a village known for its well-preserved Inca terraces and agricultural systems, before heading back to Cusco for the evening.
Today, explore the archaeological site of Moray, an Incan agricultural testing center built as a system of circular terraces. Drive to the Inca Salt Flats, where over 4,000 of salt ponds are still harvested by local salt farmers using ancient methods. After lunch, board the Vistadome train from Ollantaytambo down the valley to Aguas Calientes.
Rise early for a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Your guide will explain the history of the site and the significance of the Inca architecture as you wander through its terraces and temples. In the afternoon, you have free time to explore further, visit the Inca Bridge or hike up Huayna Picchu for panoramic views of the entire site. Return to Aguas Calientes in the evening for your journey back to Cusco.
Enjoy some final moments in Cusco before your flight back to Lima. Depending on your flight time, you can enjoy some leisure time in Lima for shopping or a last walk around the city before your outbound flight home.
