Peru - Footsteps of the IncasEscorted Tour, South America

In Peru, archaeological treasures are weaved seamlessly among sweeping, unspoiled valleys and the mountain scenery of the Andes. Add into the mix a host of vibrant and friendly locals, and you’ll soon realise there’s much more to discover here than just llamas and knitted chullo. You’ll ride the wave of charming chaos in the coastal capital of Lima, before travelling to mountain-top Machu Picchu and gliding through the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca, discovering history and legend along the way.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

11 nights in hotels and 2 in flight (accommodation as specified or similar)

International and internal flights as detailed. Prices are based on return flights with LATAM from London Heathrow via Sao Paulo. Supplements may apply from other airports

17 meals: 11 breakfasts (days 3-13) 5 lunches (days 5, 7-8 and 10-11) 1 dinner (day 5)

Audio headsets in Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cuzco

VIP door-to-door travel service

Services of a tour manager

Travel in destination by coach

Porterage

12 excursions and visits

Tours of Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco

Entrance to Larco Museum and Santa Catalina Monastery

Visits to Colca Canyon and Condor Cross; Sillustani Tombs; Sacred Valley; village of Pisac and fortress of Ollantaytambo

Excursions to Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu

Puno-Cuzco train journey

ITINERARY

Day 1 UK - In flight

VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home for your flight to Lima.

Day 2 Lima

You’ll arrive in Lima and transfer to the Jose Antonio Hotel (4-star) or Four Points by Sheraton Miraflores (4-star). The remainder of the day is spent at leisure. You may want to explore this vibrant city or just relax at the hotel.

Day 3 Lima - Arequipa

This morning you’ll take a tour of the old ‘City of Kings’. The alternative name was in fact the city’s original name, chosen by the founder of Lima, Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. Founded in 1535, Lima is renowned for its colonial architecture, especially at the heart of the city. You’ll begin your explorations in the Old Town, roaming the streets that have stood through earthquakes and truly fascinating historical times you’ll pass the Government Palace and majestic, historic squares. You’ll make stops at the cathedral and Larco Herrera Museum, where gold and silver from ancient Peru are displayed. The city’s walls are laced with incredible history of political, cultural and economic importance having played the role of capital of the Spanish dominions in South America until the 18th century. You’ll transfer to Lima Airport this afternoon for your flight to Arequipa and travel to the Casa Andina Select Arequipa (4-star) or Sonesta Hotel Arequipa (4-star) for your two-night stay.

Day 4 Arequipa

This morning you’ll embark on a tour of Arequipa, a UNESCO-listed city renowned for spectacular views thanks to the three snow-capped towering volcanoes - Chachani, Misti and Pichu Pichu - that guard the city. The city’s architecture is utterly remarkable, having stood through nature’s traumatic outbursts - with one earthquake in 2001 causing extensive damage to the region - interestingly, the buildings magnificent structures are made from locally sourced white volcanic sillar rock. During your time here you’ll visit the fine old quarter of San Lazaro and the spectacular Monastery of Santa Catalina, Peru’s most important religious building. Spread over 20,000 square metres, it served as a base for Dominican nuns during the 16th and 18th centuries and now boasts a plaza, delightful gallery of paintings and sculptures, and a chapel. The Monastery is still advocated by a religious group today. As one of Arequipa’s most famous churches, the Monastery of Santa Catalina also has numerous rooms to explore - your guided tour will reveal the unique and enthralling history of the church. With the afternoon is at leisure, why not embark on an optional tour of your choice.

Day 5 Arequipa - Colca Canyon

Today you’ll travel from Arequipa into the Colca Canyon marvelling at the colourful Andean Valley as you journey to Chivay - located in the southern Colca Canyon region, this charming town showcases a cultural main square, green valley, array of pretty villages and views of the surrounding terraced hillsides and snow-capped peaks - to spend a relaxing evening at the Casa Andina Colca (3.5-star).

Day 6 Colca Canyon - Puno

At the Cruz del Condor, Andean Condors soar gracefully on thermals rising from the stunning canyon. The scale of the canyon and its surroundings is breathtaking, with the summit of the nearby Ampato volcano over 5km higher than the canyon’s lowest point. Later you’ll travel to Puno and your hotel for two nights - the Sonesta Posada Puno (3-star).

Day 7 Lake Titicaca

A full-day excursion to Lake Titicaca reveals an area of great beauty and legend. Thought to be the birthplace of the sun, Lake Titicaca is South America’s largest lake, the sparkling deep blue waters and array of breathtaking views are a pleasure to behold. Local attractions include Uros villages, whose inhabitants live on floating totora-reed islands, and Taquile Island, inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives, where you’ll see a demonstration of traditional hand-weaving techniques which offers a truly unique, insightful experience of the remarkable lifestyle and culture of these Peruvian natives. Returning to Puno, you’ll visit the Sillustani archaeological site with its chullpa burial towers, situated on the shores of Lake Umayo, the burial towers were constructed by the Colla people who imprinted detailed carvings into the tombs, the tallest constructed towers stands at 40 feet on one of the hills.

Day 8 Puno - Cuzco

Today you’ll travel from Puno to Cuzco in style, aboard the Pullman-style carriages of the Titicaca Train. This journey is about more than just getting from A to B. The scenery is absolutely spectacular (windswept fields, traditional villages and soaring mountains), but the onboard experience is just as special. Think gourmet Peruvian cuisine and live performances from local musicians. Sit back and take it all in as you weave through the Peruvian Andes. This is a journey of experience. You’ll stay two nights at the Xima Cusco Hotel (4-star).

Day 9 Cuzco

Situated in the Peruvian Andes, Cuzco, known as the ‘Archaeological Capital of America’, was the once fabled capital of the Inca Empire. Your captivating city tour includes visiting the Plaza de Armas - the ancient plaza hosts beautiful architecture, delightful arrays of lush flora and historic monuments and permanently flies two flags, the Peruvian flag and the Tahuantinsuyo flag, to highlight the Inca Empire. You’ll also visit Cuzco Cathedral; construction began in 1559 on the sacred Inca site but took a staggering 100 years to complete. Wander amongst the inspiring 14 pillars supporting the unmissable star-shaped ceilings, and admire the 17th century European decoration and lavish collection of famous paintings including Marcos Zapata’s impeccable ‘The Last Supper’. The Temple of the Sun - the semi-circular structure constructed over a strong rock is one of the most famous among the ruins - and the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, the massive Inca fortress perched high overlooking the city, are also on your list for exploring today. Building work here began in the 1440s and took nearly a century to complete.

Day 10 Cuzco - Sacred Valley

You’ll travel to the Sacred Valley, stopping in the charming village of Pisac where Quechua people, who live in the beautiful surrounding highlands, sell their stock and purchase any supplies they require in its lively market - a shopper’s delight. Roam the colourful market where you can choose from many handmade Peruvian souvenirs to take home including jewellery, ponchos, Andean instruments and ceramics. Head to Ollantaytambo, where ruins include a series of steps and niches carved out of the cliff and where, since the 13th century, this beautiful area has been a delightful place to leisurely wander through narrow, cobblestone streets and charming, stone buildings - making you feel as if you have stepped back in time. Stay for two nights at the Sonesta Posadas Yucay Hotel (3-star).

Day 11 Machu Picchu

Your full-day excursion takes us by train to the magnificent lost Inca city of Machu Picchu, Peru’s historic, archaeological masterpiece. For most visitors, the sheer scale of this complete city once buried in the jungle is simply unparalleled. The complex is considered to have been constructed at the height of the Inca Empire between the 15th and 16th centuries, until it was abandoned at the end of the latter. Rediscovered in 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham and a small team of explorers, the ruins of temples, palaces, towers and fountains set against a dramatic backdrop of dark green forested mountains rising from the deep valley are unimaginably breathtaking. The group of approximately 200 structures were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, declared one of the New7Wonders of the World in 2007 and remain a symbol of the captivating Inca Empire’s time in power.

Day 12 Sacred Valley - Cuzco - Lima

Today you’ll transfer to Cuzco Airport for your flight to Lima where you’ll transfer to the Jose Antonio Hotel (4-star) or Four Points by Sheraton Miraflores (4-star) to stay overnight.

Day 13 Lima - In flight

Transfer to the airport for your overnight return flight to the UK.

Day 14 UK

Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.

Important information about your destination

Please note: • 14 June 2020 & 2021 departures arrive in Peru for the Inti Raymi ‘Sun Festival’ with an amended 16-day itinerary - please call for details • This tour includes areas of high altitude and customers who may be concerned are recommended to consult their doctor. This tour also includes areas of rough terrain and a significant amount of walking is involved.

Peru - Footsteps of the Incas is located in Escorted Tour, South America. Accommodation rating is the operators own rating and may not be the official rating. Hotel details correct at 04/04/2020