Complete Peru

Itinerary

2 Nights – Lima
3 Nights – Iquitos / Amazon Explorer
2 Nights – Arequipa
5 Nights – Cuzco / Machu Picchu
3 Nights – Puno / Lake Titicaca
1 Night – Lima

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✈️ UK to Lima (2 nights):  You’ll begin your Peruvian journey in the vibrant, coastal city of Lima. Renowned as the Gastronomical Capital of the Americas, Lima boasts world-renowned cuisine, including the iconic ceviche – fresh raw fish marinated in tangy lime juice. Take in the stunning Pacific ocean views while strolling along the Miraflores boardwalk and learn about Lima’s rich history through its 16th-century architecture, from the majestic Plaza Mayor and its grand cathedrals to the colonial mansions that grace the city’s streets. Finally, don’t miss the chance to visit the Larco Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of art and artifacts, offering deeper insights into Peru’s ancient cultures. For a taste of local life, explore the colourful Barranco district, known for its bohemian atmosphere, vibrant street art, and eclectic galleries. The Central Market also offers a great chance to experience the city’s hustle and bustle with stalls of exotic produce and street food sellers, while the Chinatown provides a unique fusion of Peruvian and Chinese flavours.

✈️ Lima to Iquitos (3 nights): Taking an early flight, you’ll be whisked away to Iquitos, the gateway to the enchanting Amazon rainforest. After arriving, you’ll be transported to a jungle lodge where you’ll immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Amazon for two nights. Here you’ll get the opportunity to experience all that the rainforest has to offer.  Paddle along tranquil rivers in a canoe, hike through jungle trails, and marvel at the wildlife – from cheeky monkeys to colourful toucans and cute sloths. As night falls, the sounds of the rainforest will lull you to sleep. After your jungle adventure, you’ll return to Iquitos for a night, where you can soak up the city’s unique Amazonian charm before heading to your next destination.

Iquitos to Arequipa (2 nights): Next you’ll hop on a flight to Arequipa, where the city’s white volcanic stone buildings offer a stark contrast to Lima’s coastal urban landscape.  Nicknamed the ‘White City’ for its buildings made from sillar (the white volcanic stone) it is Peru’s second-largest city.   Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning colonial architecture, with highlights such as the Plaza de Armas, the Monasterio de Santa Catalina and the Museo Santuarios Andinos, home to the famous Inca ice mummy ‘Juanita’.  For a fascinating day trip, head to Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons which is best to experience on a guided tour.

✈️ Arequipa to Cuzco (5 nights):  Nestled high in the Andes, you’ll take a flight to Cuzco, once the heart of the Inca Empire and now the perfect base to explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. You’ll need to spend the first two days here acclimatising to the altitude – but there is so much to see and do. Wander through the majestic Sacsayhuamán fortress and the sacred Qorikancha temple. On one day we will arrange for you to take a trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas to admire its stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. Once you’re acclimatised, you’ll be ready to embark on the scenic train ride to Machu Picchu. If you would prefer the more challenging trek along the Inca trail, we can arrange that too. Some of the sights you’ll be keen to explore in Machu Picchu include the iconic Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone and the stunning Inca Bridge, an ancient path carved into the cliffside.  As you explore these magnificent ruins, you’ll feel a real sense of serenity and incredible craftmanship – a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

🚂  Cuzco to Puno (3 nights):  From Cuzco, a picturesque train ride will take you to Puno, a gateway to the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca. As the world’s highest navigable lake, Titicaca offers a chance to explore its unique floating islands of Uros and the traditional island communities of Taquile and Amantaní. Here, the calm blue waters and the gentle sway of the reed boats create a peaceful setting perfect for reflecting on your Peruvian adventure and the sights you’ll have seen across this fascinating country.

✈️ Puno to Lima (1 night):  Your final stop brings you back to Lima for one final night where you can revisit your favourite spots or discover something new before your flight home the next day.

✈️ Lima to UK: As you board your flight back to the UK, you’ll carry with you memories of Peru’s stunning landscapes and fascinating culture – memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.