Essential Peru
7 Days / 6 Nights
Essential Peru
7 Days / 6 Nights
A short but essential journey. Discover the best of Peru: the cultural richness of Lima, the magic of Cusco, the unique landscapes of the Sacred Valley, and the world wonder of Machu Picchu. Perfect for those who want to explore the essentials in a short amount of time.
Upon arrival, you will receive assistance at the airport and be transferred to the hotel.
Accommodation at the selected hotel in Lima.
Meals are not included.
Breakfast.
City Tour of Lima: Colonial and Modern
We will explore the two sides of Lima: the modern side, represented by Miraflores and San Isidro, and the historic side, located in its colonial center, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive into its colonial past as we walk through its streets, squares, and iconic buildings, such as the Government Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop's Palace. The tour also includes a visit to the Santo Domingo Convent, where the relics of Saint Rose of Lima, Saint Martin de Porres, and Saint John Macias are housed.
Stay at the selected hotel in Lima.
Breakfast included.
Breakfast..
At the scheduled time, transfer to the airport for the flight to Cusco.
Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be greeted by one of our representatives and transferred to the hotel.
Free day in Cusco for personal activities.
Explore the charm of this colonial city built upon impressive Inca ruins. We recommend visiting the Temple of the Sun (Koricancha), the San Blas neighborhood, the Cathedral, and the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán.
Optional at an additional cost:
Half-Day City Tour: San Pedro Market and Ruins (minimum 2 passengers).
Discover Cusco's cultural richness on this half-day tour. Visit the San Pedro Market, designed in 1925 by Gustave Eiffel, a key spot for local traders. Explore the Koricancha, the ancient center of worship for the Sun, on which the Santo Domingo Convent was built, representing Cusco's cultural syncretism. Continue to the Sacsayhuamán fortress, a masterpiece of Inca military architecture, and the ceremonial center of Kenko, dedicated to the Sun, Moon, and stars. The tour concludes with a visit to the Cathedral, which houses colonial art and was built on the palace of the Inca Huiracocha.
Stay at the selected hotel in Cusco.
Breakfast included.
Breakfast.
Discover Maras, Moray, and Misminay
This tour takes you to three wonders of the Sacred Valley: Maras, Moray, and Misminay.
We’ll begin with the salt mines of Maras, a stunning network of nearly 3,000 salt pools that have been used since Inca times to extract a unique and globally recognized salt. In addition to its economic importance for local families, Maras is a photographer's paradise, thanks to its dazzling terraced landscapes.
Next, we’ll visit Moray, a fascinating archaeological site featuring circular terraces that served as an Inca agricultural laboratory. These terraces, each with its own microclimate, allowed the Incas to experiment with different crops, showcasing their advanced agricultural engineering.
The experience concludes in the community of Misminay, where we’ll be warmly welcomed by its residents. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in traditional activities such as farming and weaving while enjoying traditional dances and music. This visit offers an immersive experience into the authentic Andean lifestyle.
Stay at the selected hotel in Sacred Valley.
Includes breakfast and lunch.
Breakfast.
At the scheduled time, you will take the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town.
(*) Train schedules will be confirmed in advance.
Journey to Aguas Calientes and Visit Machu Picchu (Shared Service)
At the designated time, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town, a picturesque village nestled at the base of the iconic Inca citadel. During the journey, enjoy spectacular views through the train’s large windows, showcasing majestic mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and charming Andean villages that set the stage for the grandeur of our destination.
Upon arrival, we will take a bus to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Here, you will explore its fascinating structures, such as the Sun Dial, royal quarters, and the main square, while uncovering the mysteries and history surrounding this magical place. With breathtaking scenery at every corner, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture unforgettable photos. (Visits may vary depending on the type of circuit reserved.)
After touring the citadel, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and enjoy free time to explore its charming streets before boarding the return train. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
(*) Train schedules are subject to confirmation.
Stay at the selected hotel in Cusco.
Includes breakfast.
Breakfast.
Free Day in Cusco for Personal Activities.
Take advantage of this day to explore at your own pace, surrounded by stunning landscapes, traditional communities, and rich biodiversity. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Adventure awaits!
Optional Activity at Additional Cost
Full-Day Excursion to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (Shared Service) – Minimum 2 Passengers
Vinicunca, also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, is one of Cusco's most iconic destinations. We will start early with a transfer to Cusipata, continuing to Phulawasipata, the starting point of our trek. As we ascend, you will enjoy unique landscapes featuring herds of llamas and alpacas, along with the imposing presence of Mount Ausangate, the highest peak in Cusco. Along the way, you will have the chance to interact with local inhabitants and observe their daily agricultural activities.
After approximately an hour and a half of hiking, we will reach an altitude of 5,020 meters (16,466 feet) above sea level, where Vinicunca is located. Its stunning natural colors, a result of the minerals in the soil, range from red and green to yellow, pink, and purple. It’s the perfect spot for capturing unforgettable photographs! After taking in this wonder, we will return to Phulawasipata and then to Cusipata, where we will enjoy a traditional lunch before heading back.
Stay at the selected hotel in Cusco.
Includes breakfast.
Breakfast.
At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Cusco Airport to board your flight back to your destination.
Breakfast included.
All services, accommodations, meals detailed in the itinerary description.
Shared services with bilingual guides and transfers in Spanish and English.
Early check-in, late check-out, services, tickets, or meals not specified in the itinerary.
Beverages during meals.
Personal expenses.
Tips for guides, drivers, waiters, and general staff.
International airfare.
Airport taxes.
Additional travel insurance.