Taste of Peru & Chile

Itinerary

3 Nights – Lima
5 Nights – Cuzco (Macchu Picchu)
6 Nights – Santiago / Valparaíso Beaches

✈ UK – Lima (3 Nights): You’ll fly direct from the UK to Peru’s coastal capital of Lima, where we’ll transfer you to your hotel. Lima is a melting pot of modern-day urbanisms, colonial-era mansions, vibrant markets and nightlife. Historic squares and cathedrals fill El Centro’s streets, where ceviche restaurants contribute to Lima’s status as “gastronomic capital of the Americas”. There’s romance and greenery at the Parque del Amor, ancient temple ruins at Huaca Huallamarca, bohemian flair in Mirador and plenty of cobbled charm in the Barranco beach district. Visit the Museo Larco, meander grand lawns at the Plaza Mayor and take in the city’s iconic canary yellow facades. Fresh markets, historic monasteries and an exciting Chinatown make Lima fascinating. You’ve got 3 whole nights to taste it.

✈ Lima – Cuzco (5 Nights): You’ll fly direct from Lima to Cuzco, the gateway to the mesmerising Inca trail that is one of the 7 New Wonders of the World. Spend the first few days here relaxing and exploring Cuzco, allowing your body to acclimatise to the 3,399-metre altitude, but there’s plenty to do while you adjust. Snug in the Andean mountain valley, Cuzco’s baroque squares and cobbles are filled with fresh markets, food vendors and bustling locals in indigenous garb. Two magnificent churches flank the main Plaza de Armas, while traditional cafes dot nearby thoroughfares. Whether you’re exploring the Inca site of Sacsayhuamán two miles north or just soaking in the Quechua culture, you’ll be surrounded by authenticity. Listen to the locals when they offer you that hot coca tea for altitude adjustment.

🚌 Incas Sacred Valley Day Trip: Once you’re a little more acclimatised you will do this amazing day trip to discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Explore some of the most well known sites associated with this mysterious civilisation and take in the stunning Andean landscapes that surround it.

🚂 Machu Picchu Day Trip: The highlight for many here is the 26-mile Machu Picchu trail, which we include as a day tour by rail , but we can also arrange for you to trek the trail. Beautifully preserved Inca culture here is showcased in sights such as the Temple of the Sun, Sun Gate and The Sacred Rock. Cascading terraces frame this 7 New Wonders of the World citadel, and brave travellers can hike up the demanding Huayna Picchu (where the photo ops are legendary).

✈ Cuzco – Santiago (6 Nights): Next you will fly to Chile’s capital, Santiago, although it’s up to you whether you head straight to Valparaíso for some beach relaxation or enjoy 2-3 nights in Santiago first. Framed by the famous San Cristóbal and Santa Lucía hills, Santiago is known for its 22 funiculars and rewarding, high-perched views. Stroll the bohemian Barrio Bellavista neighbourhood and visit the Catedral Metropolitana shadowing the main Plaza de Armas square. Shopaholics and spice lovers are catered-to at endless malls and markets- perfect before (or after) the Valparaíso leg of your trip.

Valparaíso is reached by road transfer from Santiago. It’s known for its bohemian culture, brightly painted houses and beautiful seaside setting. Relax and dine on long stretches of golden sands or explore the hill-set neighbourhoods of Cerro Alegre or Concepción for graffiti murals in an upscale setting. You can tweak these two final destinations to add in local vineyards for a few nights of wine tasting outside Santiago.

Santiago – UK: We’ll meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your direct flight back to the UK.