Premium Peru in Depth with Ica Valley

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

18 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

12 peopleMaximum group size

15 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Lima, Peru

Ends

Lima, Peru

Highlights

Savour the flavours of Peru during Exclusive Experiences, including dinner at one of Lima’s best restaurants, snacks from a cafe supporting single mothers, and a home-cooked pachamanca (earth oven) lunch in the Sacred Valley.

Enjoy Exclusive Experiences of Peru’s top sites, including a sunset tour of a wine and pisco vineyard in Ica and two guided visits to Machu Picchu – which you’ll travel to aboard the 360° Train for unbeatable views of the Andes.

Unwind at your Feature Stay hotel along the Colca River, with grounds dotted with tumbling waterfalls, organic gardens and swimming pools, plus modern rooms, first-class service and fantastic amenities.

Set out in search of pelicans, flamingos, sea lions and penguins on an exciting boat tour around the Ballestas Islands just off the coast of the Paracas Peninsula.

Take a walk on the wild side at your Feature Stay in the heart of the Amazon and enjoy a full day of wildlife activities, including a boat tour, night jungle walks and more.

Itinerary

Immerse yourself in Peru’s rich tapestry of culture and nature on the "Premium Peru in Depth with Ica Valley" tour. Over 18 days, discover the fertile winelands of Ica, the colonial elegance of Arequipa, the dramatic Colca Canyon, and the wild Amazon rainforest. Stand in awe before Machu Picchu, explore the Sacred Valley, and search for wildlife in the Ballestas Islands. With a moderate activity rating, this tour is well-suited to experienced travelers seeking a comprehensive, hands-on adventure. The USP? A rare combination of ancient Inca heritage, diverse landscapes, and exclusive experiences brought to life by expert local guides.

day 1 - Lima

Welcome to Peru! Your adventure begins in Lima, Peru’s colourful capital. You'll be collected from the airport and taken to your hotel where you'll meet your fellow travellers and local leader at a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, perhaps head out for a walk in the historical centre. After your meeting, get your first taste of Lima’s world-renowned food scene during a welcome dinner with your group and leader. Head out to a fantastic restaurant that’s popular with the locals and get acquainted with some of Peru’s best dishes. From fresh ceviche to pisco sours – you’ll soon find out why Lima is hailed as the culinary capital of South America.

included:Lima - Complimentary Arrival Transfer, Lima - Welcome Dinner

day 2 - Ica

Leave Lima and travel to the fabulous Vinas Queirolo, your accommodation for the next two nights and Peru's only hotel located within a vineyard. Sitting in the Ica Valley at the foothills of the Andes and surrounded by more than 500 hectares of vineyards, the setting couldn’t be more spectacular. Enjoy traditional bodega charm, spacious and stylish rooms, three swimming pools, tennis courts and a marvellous restaurant. On arrival, you may like to take a dip, play a game of tennis or simply relax poolside. The vineyards that surround your hotel produce Peru’s most famous wine along with the national drink, pisco. This afternoon, you'll have the option to take a scenic flight over the Nazca Lines. Etched into the landscape some 22 kilometres north of Nazca, these mysterious desert drawings remain a mystery. Just speak to your leader to arrange this activity.

day 3 - Ica

Travel to the coast this morning to the Paracas Peninsula for an excursion to the Ballestas Islands. These islands are home to abundant wildlife, including pelicans, red-footed boobies, flamingos, sea lions and even penguins. You'll have the chance to get up close and personal with wildlife on a boat tour. Return to your accommodation in the afternoon where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vineyards on a private tour with an expert sommelier. Hear the history of the vineyard and learn how they make wine and pisco. Cap off the day with drinks at a lookout point, watching the sun set over the landscape.

included:Boat Tour, Ica - Vineyard tour with a sommelier, Ica - Sunset drinks

day 4 - Lima

This morning you'll return to Lima and meet any new members joining your group. After, head out with your leader and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants, surrounded by views of ancient ruins. The creative chef offers traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist.

included:Lima - Welcome Dinner, Complimentary Arrival Transfer

accommodation:Pullman Lima Miraflores or similar

meals:1 Dinner

day 5 - Arequipa

Start the day with a walking tour with your leader through downtown Lima. Admire the buildings of Plaza Mayor and visit the eerie catacombs of the Saint Francis Monastery, then head away from the tourist trail to Alameda de Chabuca Granda – an area popular with the locals. Later, catch a flight to Arequipa – a beautiful Spanish colonial city. When you arrive, head out for an orientation walk with your leader. Known as La Ciudad Blanca (The White City), Arequipa’s buildings have been built almost exclusively from a white volcanic material called sillar, giving the city an appearance like no other. Situated in a valley at the foot of the El Misti volcano, the city also boasts a truly remarkable backdrop.

included:Arequipa - Leader-led orientation walk, Lima - Downtown walking tour

accommodation:Casa Andina Select or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 6 - Arequipa

This morning, meet a local guide who’s an expert on all things Arequipa and set out on a tour of the city. Explore Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, then continue to the Santa Catalina Monastery while your guide shares stories of the city’s history along the way. Stop by the San Ignacio Chapel to appreciate its mural paintings. Visit the beautiful Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa with another local expert guide who will discuss the many layers of the building’s history – from its construction in 1656 to its subsequent destructions and rebuilds. The afternoon is free your own discoveries. Why not pick up an Alpaca jumper and meet the llamas and alpacas of Mundo Alpaca or take part in an active adventure in the surrounding hills and rivers. Or maybe visit the museum that houses 'Mummy Juanita' – the well-preserved body of a young Inca girl who died sometime between 1450 and 1480.

included:Arequipa - Walking tour, Arequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission Fee, Arequipa - San Ignacio Chapel, Arequipa - Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

accommodation:Casa Andina Select or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 7 - Colca Canyon

This morning, drive through the Altiplano high plains to the Colca Valley and Canyon. On the way you'll see grazing vicunas, llamas and alpacas, as well as stone cairns built by local Indigenous communities. More than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Colca Canyon provides some breathtaking views. The pre-Inca terraces carved into its walls are still cultivated today, and the area is dotted with traditional Indian villages with locals in colourful dress. Stop at the highest point (4910 m) to enjoy views of the landscape below. Drive to the town of Chivay, where you'll have some time to soak up the local hot springs, then continue to the Aranwa Pueblito Encantado del Colca Hotel – your Feature Stay accommodation for the evening. With a prime location along the rugged Colca River, this resort offers tranquillity and comfort. The grounds feature tumbling waterfalls, organic gardens and pools, making this the perfect spot to explore. With modern rooms, first-class service and fantastic amenities, this stay is one to remember.

included:Colca Canyon - Viewpoint photo stop

accommodation:Hotel Aranwa Pueblito Encantado del Colca (Feature Stay) or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 8 - Lake Titicaca - Puno

Rise early this morning to visit the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where Andean condors, one of the world's largest flying birds, can often be seen soaring in the air. After lunch, begin the drive to Puno. On the way, you'll stop off at the Sillustani archaeological site for about an hour, where you'll climb to the top of the hill to appreciate the ruined 'chullpas', or funeral towers. These towers were built by a pre-Inca civilisation centuries ago to house the remains of noble men. Located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, Puno is full of Aymara and Quechuan Indian culture. The town is known as the folklore capital of Peru and is renowned for its traditional dances.

included:Colca Canyon - Mirador Cruz del Condor, Puno - Sillustani archaeological site

accommodation:Hotel Sonesta Posadas del Inca Puno or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 9 - Taquile - Lake Titicaca - Puno

See the striking scenery and unique cultures of the area on a cruise around Lake Titicaca today. This morning, depart from the port in Puno for the floating Uros Islands. The Uros people constructed these islands to isolate themselves from rival tribes in ancient times. They are built completely from multiple layers of totora reeds, which grow in the shallows of the lake. Call into Taquile Island, where you'll spend an hour walking to the top of the hill to see local traditional clothing and shops for woollen handicrafts. Explore this extraordinary place before traveling back to Puno for the evening. Back at your hotel, enjoy sunset over Lake Titicaca, while you sample wine and cheese in the garden.

included:Lake Titicaca - Floating Uros Islands & Taquile Island

accommodation:Hotel Sonesta Posadas del Inca Puno or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 10 - Raqchi - Cusco

Rise early and travel to Cusco. The journey will be broken up with plenty of stops, including a visit to the Raqchi Archaeological Site. Arrive in Cusco by late afternoon. Cusco is South America's oldest continuously inhabited city, and was the home of the Inca for two centuries before the Spanish built their first capital here. Today Cusco is a fascinating combination of both cultures. At 3450 m above sea level, it’s important to take time to acclimatise to the city’s altitude. After settling in at the hotel, take a casual walk around Plaza de Armas with your leader and pick up some excellent dinner recommendations along the way.

included:Cusco - Leader-led orientation walk, Raqchi Inca Site, between Puno and Cuzco

accommodation:Casa Andina Premium Cusco or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

day 11 - Cusco

This morning, discover the best of Cusco on a walking tour. First, enjoy a special tour of the World Heritage-listed Cusco Cathedral with a local historian guide. Built on top of an Incan palace, the building is now one of Cusco’s greatest repositories of art, and your guide will share its history from past to present. Then, tour the Coricancha Temple with another local guide. The temple was once covered in sheets of gold that were eventually removed to raise a ransom for the life of Atahualpa, and later the Spanish demolished the temple to build a Dominican church on its foundations. Soon after, head to the colourful San Pedro market. The rest of the day is yours – speak to your leader about the option to arrange a cooking class at a local restaurant using fair trade products, or the half-day Inkilltambo trek, exploring an archaeologic site on the city’s outskirts.

included:Cusco - Cathedral tour with Specialist Historian Guide, Cusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee), Cusco - Walking tour

accommodation:Casa Andina Premium Cusco or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 12 - Ollantaytambo

Today you'll head for the Sacred Valley. Treasured for its climate, fertile land and the Urubamba (Sacred) River, the valley has long been the main source of food in the high Andes. Visit the AMA Restaurant in Urubamba – this cafe provides employment opportunities and job training for single mothers throughout the Sacred Valley. Enjoy a snack and learn how this inclusive enterprise focuses on economic growth, gender equality and the support of vulnerable communities. Continue to Willoq community to take part in an ancient cooking ritual known as pachamanca. This cooking method, which dates back to the time of the Inca empire, sees meats and vegetables marinaded in spices cooked slowly in the earth. You will also learn about traditional textile techniques that are used by the community – and you’ll even have the chance to make your own bracelet with the local women! Later, continue to the town of Ollantaytambo. Built over an ancient Inca settlement, this is one of the few places where the Inca defeated the Spanish. Explore the archaeological site with an expert local guide who will discuss the evidence of the Incas' engineering skills in the ruins of ancient aqueducts, irrigation canals, dams on the Urubamba River and towering sets of terraces.

included:Ollantaytambo - Archaeological site, Sacred Valley - Community workshops visit, Sacred Valley - Home-cooked pachamanca lunch, Sacred Valley - Snack & drink at AMA Restaurant social enterprise

accommodation:Pakaritampu Hotel or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

day 13 - Aguas Calientes

Today’s journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes will reveal some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Board the 360 Machu Picchu Train – with high domed windows in each carriage, there’s few better ways to view the magical Andes Mountains. The train also features an open-air observation carriage so you can marvel at the landscape from every angle. Disembark the train in Aguas Calientes, briefly drop your belongings off at your hotel, then take a short bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu, where you will be joined by a guide who will take you through the ruins and tell you stories of its history and the ancestral people of the region. The true purpose behind Machu Picchu may always be a mystery, since no historical records of the complex exist. Most archaeologists, however, believe it to be the 15th-century headquarters of Emperor Pachacuti. Your leader can advise how to get the most out of your visit. Later, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes to spend the night before heading back up to Machu Picchu first thing in the morning for your second visit.

included:Machu Picchu - Entrance & Guided visit, Ollantaytambo - 360 degree train to Aguas Calientes

accommodation:El Mapi By Inkaterra

meals:1 Breakfast

day 14 - Cusco

Rise before the sun and take the winding road back up to Machu Picchu for another morning uncovering its secrets. On your second visit, explore more of the extraordinary architecture of the many temples, palaces and living quarters. The sight of the ruins of Machu Picchu against a lush backdrop of forested mountain is one you’re sure to remember. You'll have time along the way to take any photos you may have missed yesterday. Take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, then catch a standard train back to Ollantaytambo. From here, you'll make the drive back to Cusco for the evening.

included:Machu Picchu - Second visit

accommodation:Casa Andina Premium Cusco or similar

meals:1 Breakfast

day 15 - Amazon Jungle

Today you will catch a flight to Puerto Maldonado. When you arrive in the afternoon, take a bus to the port where you will board motorised canoes and head into the Amazon rainforest. Keep an eye out for macaws, herons, alligators and capybaras along the way. Here you’ll find Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion – your Feature Stay for the next two nights. Built in the heart of a 380 hectare-private ecological reserve, this unique resort is focused on the conservation of local habitats and features 25 private cabanas plus an on-site team of expert local guides. Enjoy lunch at the lodge then explore the Concepcion Trails with an expert guide. As darkness begins to fall, join a guided Twilight River boat ride and see how many caimans you can spot lurking on the riverbanks. Dinner is a la carte and draws on local Amazon ingredients to create a meal to remember.

included:Amazon Jungle - Night boat tour

accommodation:Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 16 - Amazon Jungle

After breakfast, board a dug-out wooden canoe to quietly glide across Lake Sandoval, keeping an eye out for red howler monkeys, giant river otters and colourful macaws along the way. After lunch you may like to walk along the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway – a 344 m network of suspension bridges that take you high above the forest floor to some of the best places to spot toucans, woodpeckers, monkeys and three-toed sloths. Join a night walk to discover the nocturnal activity in the surrounding areas or book into the lodge’s spa, before you meet your group for dinner.

included:Amazon Jungle - Oxbow Lake, Amazon Jungle - Canopy Walkway, Amazon Jungle - Night jungle walk

accommodation:Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

day 17 - Lima

This morning, travel back to Puerto Maldonado, then take a flight to Lima, arriving in the early afternoon. Enjoy a few hours at leisure to explore any of the city’s sights you may have missed the first time around, then get back together with your fellow travellers and leader for dinner. With a delectable menu of Peruvian delights, this final dinner is sure to leave you with a lasting memory of your time in Peru.

included:Lima - Farewell Dinner

accommodation:Pullman Lima Miraflores or similar

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

day 18 - Lima

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to spend some more time in Lima, just speak to your booking agent.

meals:1 Breakfast

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What's Included

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel (17 nights), Feature Stay (1 night)

Meals

14 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches

Transport

Plane, Train, Private vehicle, Boat

Guide

An expert tour leader

Included Activities

Lima - Complimentary Arrival TransferLima - Welcome DinnerBoat TourIca - Vineyard tour with a sommelierIca - Sunset drinksComplimentary Arrival TransferArequipa - Leader-led orientation walkLima - Downtown walking tourArequipa - Walking tourArequipa - Santa Catalina Monastery Admission FeeArequipa - San Ignacio ChapelArequipa - Basilica Cathedral of ArequipaColca Canyon - Viewpoint photo stopColca Canyon - Mirador Cruz del CondorPuno - Sillustani archaeological siteLake Titicaca - Floating Uros Islands & Taquile IslandCusco - Leader-led orientation walkRaqchi Inca Site, between Puno and CuzcoCusco - Cathedral tour with Specialist Historian GuideCusco - Coricancha Temple (entrance fee)Cusco - Walking tourOllantaytambo - Archaeological siteSacred Valley - Community workshops visitSacred Valley - Home-cooked pachamanca lunchSacred Valley - Snack & drink at AMA Restaurant social enterpriseMachu Picchu - Entrance & Guided visitOllantaytambo - 360 degree train to Aguas CalientesMachu Picchu - Second visitAmazon Jungle - Night boat tourAmazon Jungle - Oxbow LakeAmazon Jungle - Canopy WalkwayAmazon Jungle - Night jungle walkLima - Farewell Dinner

What's Excluded

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