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The Highlights of Peru


Lima, Arequipa & Colca Canyon, Titicaca, & Machu Picchu
14 days starting at $2,370/Person

Why you'll love this Highlights of Peru tour!

Lima, Arequipa & Colca Canyon, Titicaca, & Machu Picchu

14 days 1 country(ies)

This adventure brings you face to face with the authentic highlights and diversity of Southern Peru. Arequipa’s colonial architecture is compelling, watching the Andean Condors at the Colca Canyon is unforgettable, the floating islands of Lake Titicaca are magical, exploring the Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley is intriguing for both history buffs and casual visitors and experiencing the World Wonder of Machu Picchu at sunrise is mind-blowing. Our local specialists and tour guides have designed and dialed in all the secret stops that any local would approve of.

From

$ 2,370 USD

Per person based on Double Occupancy

From

$2,370 USD

Per person
  • Package valid for trips to be made between 3rd of January 2022 and 15th of December 2022, not including special holiday seasons.
  • Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Encounter Latin America has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability.
  • Package subject to availability at time of booking.
What you can expect in every tour:
  • Choose any date, all tours have daily departures
  • Hand picked guides specialized for every excursion
  • 7 regional offices with 24/7 in country support
  • Transfers with English guide to/from all airports
  • Local specialists who live and guide the destination
  • Personal dining recommendations for food lovers
  • Incredibly comfortable authentic accommodations

TOUR DETAILS “The Highlights of Peru”

What’s included

13 NIGHTS

MEALS

13 x Breakfast, 4 x Lunch, 1 x Dinner

TRANSPORTATION

All private transfers, Tour bus with scenic stops from Puno to Cusco, Vistadome train tickets to Machu Picchu, National flights not included


Wow experiences

EXPERIENCES INCLUDED

Exploring Lima, Self guide book Arequipa, 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour, Titicaca Excursion full day, City tour Cusco, Sacred Valley tour, Private Machu Picchu Tour


Highlights

Arequipa & the Condors in the Colca canyon

Cusco, sacred valley & Machu Picchu

14 Day Travel Itinerary

Our tours depart any day of the year, there are no fixed departure dates. It’s really simply, we’ve designed some of the best experiences that cover your “bucket list” must see stuff in each destination. You can trust in our 20 years of experience, that everything will run just like clockwork.

1
DAY 1 - LIMA, PERU

ARRIVAL TO PERU'S CAPITAL

View Travel Guide for Lima
Lima may be the political capital of Peru, but when it comes to gastronomy, it is one of the capitals of the world! Food is certainly going to be a theme during your stay in Lima – that is for sure. On arrival in this culinary paradise, your private guide will be waiting at the airport to assist you through check-in at your hotel. This evening, use our guide book to help unearth the city’s treasure trove of fantastic restaurants and bars during the evening, at your leisure. Restaurants like Astrid & Gaston, or Central, are just two of many in the city that year after year rank among the top 100 best restaurants in the world.
Lima has some of the most incredible eateries and food markets in Latin America, which you can explore during your free time or while taking in the history within the streets that house them.
Included: Transfer from Lima airport to your hotel; accommodation in Lima. (Meals – None).

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View Travel Guide for Lima Lima may be the political capital of Peru, but when it comes to gastronomy, it is one of the capitals of the world! Food is certainly going to be a theme during your stay in Lima ...

2
DAY 2 - LIMA

LIMA LIKE A LOCAL

This fascinating walking tour will help you gain a little insight into the local Limeño culture and history. After being picked up from your hotel at 9 am, the taxi will take you to the Miraflores market, where Peruvian merchants will enlighten you on the local produce and outline the different types of potatoes, corn, and fruits that can be found in Peru. Feel free to grab some samples and don’t forget to try the coca leaves! Following a short meander through the market, you will then hop on the public bus ‘Metropolitano’ to the historic center, where you can admire grand colonial buildings.
The Historic Center of Lima has been the seat of the Colonial and Republican governments since the Spanish foundation of the city in 1535 and is also an important indigenous center. Until the 1940s, it also housed Peru’s richest and most influential families. As you stroll through the city center, pay attention to the changing style of architecture and the beautiful interior balconies.
Upon arriving at Plaza San Martin, you will taste some delicious Peruvian pastries before heading to the main square. There, you will stop by a small outlet of the ChocoMuseum and will receive fun facts and information about the process of transforming the cocoa bean into the delicious chocolate that you will be savoring. Following this tasty treat, the tour will proceed to the Cordano Bar, where you will taste a typical Peruvian drink, the Chicha Morada, made from sweet purple corn. From here, you can either grab the Metropolitano bus back to Miraflores or you are welcome to stay in the historic center to continue exploring on your own terms.
Included: Private excursion with Guide, Public Transport, Chicha Morada and Food tasting; Accommodation in Lima. (Meals – Breakfast).
Note: The entrance to the Cathedral and San Francisco Church are not included. Around USD 8 p.p

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This fascinating walking tour will help you gain a little insight into the local Limeño culture and history. After being picked up from your hotel at 9 am, the taxi will take you to the Miraflores market, where Peruvian merchants ...

3
DAY 3 - AREQUIPA

TRAVEL TO THE ANDES

View Travel Guide for Arequipa
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Arequipa!
Upon arrival, you will be privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening will be free for you to spend at your leisure. We recommend immersing yourself in Arequipa’s lively restaurant scene, which is recognized by many Peruvians as the best and true home of Peruvian food.
Included: Private transfer in Lima and Arequipa; Accommodation in Arequipa. (Meals – Breakfast).

View Travel Guide for Arequipa This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Arequipa! Upon arrival, you will be privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening will be free for you to ...

4
Day 4 - AREQUIPA

EXPLORE THE WHITE CITY

Our self-guided walking tours of Arequipa will allow you to explore the ins and outs of the charming city of Arequipa. The guide includes 4 walking tours designed for you to enjoy many different aspects of this beautiful city. These are: Highlights of Arequipa: a 3-hour walking tour that ticks off all of Arequipa’s famous highlights; the Daily Life of Arequipa,
which guides you through the hustle and bustle of Arequipa’s local spots; a Cultural tour of Arequipa, that leads you to discover the city’s cultural heritage, both colonial and modern and finally; the Nightlife of Arequipa, so you know where to stop off for a drink or a fun night out with your friends. This guide will take you off the beaten track and also includes a section on recommended restaurants and Arequipa’s best activities with kids.
Included: Private guide; Accommodation in Arequipa. (Meals – Breakfast).

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Our self-guided walking tours of Arequipa will allow you to explore the ins and outs of the charming city of Arequipa. The guide includes 4 walking tours designed for you to enjoy many different aspects of this beautiful city. These ...

5
DAY 5 - COLCA CANYON

INTO THE COLCA CANYON

View Travel Guide for the Colca Canyon
After breakfast in your hotel, you will be picked up for your journey to the Colca Canyon. It’s a scenic route, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes as you climb to the Canahuas National Reserve. Along the way, you will stop at the Andean village of Pata Wasi, located at 12,465ft. above sea level to drink some coca tea to counteract the effects of altitude sickness. As you climb, yet further up onto the Altiplano you will begin to spot wild vicunas, llamas and guanacos as well as some interesting birdlife on the lakes.
After reaching the highest point at about 14,760ft. above sea level, you will begin descending to the quaint town of Chivay before continuing to your boutique lodge in the Colca Canyon.
Included: Transportation from Arequipa to Chivay with guide; Accommodation in Colca Canyon. (Meals – Breakfast).

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View Travel Guide for the Colca Canyon After breakfast in your hotel, you will be picked up for your journey to the Colca Canyon. It’s a scenic route, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes as ...

6
Day 6 - COLCA CANYON TO LAKE TITICACA

CONDORS & TRAVEL TO TITICACA

View Travel Guide for Puno & Lake Titicaca
It’s time to hit the road again as you make your way to the town of Puno at Lake Titicaca where, the journey will take you right across the endless highland plains where you’ll be treated to stunning views of Peru’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival at Lake Titicaca passengers staying at Comfort and Superior class accommodation will head towards to your hotel where you’ll have the remainder of the day free to spend at your leisure.

Passengers in Luxury Class will be taken to Titilaca lodge, located on the lakeside and that offers impressive views over Lake Titicaca’s beautiful waters. As a result of Puno’s altitude we highly recommend having a light dinner this evening at your hotel.
Included: Group service Transportation from Colca Canyon to Puno at Lake Titicaca; Accommodation in Lake Titicaca. (Meals – Breakfast).

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View Travel Guide for Puno & Lake Titicaca It’s time to hit the road again as you make your way to the town of Puno at Lake Titicaca where, the journey will take you right across the endless highland plains where ...

7
Day 7 - LAKE TITICACA

ISLAND ADVENTURES

This day passengers staying at Comfort and Superior class accommodation will enjoy a full day tour in Lake Titicaca and the ones in Luxury class will enjoy their included activities at Titilaka lodge.

For Comfort and Superior class:
Titicaca Cultural Express (Taquile, Llachon & Uros Islands visit) – Full day – Group service
Straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia in the Andes Mountains, is one of South America’s largest lakes and the world’s highest navigable body of water. Said to be the birthplace of the Incas, it is home to numerous ruins and islands where tradition remains. Today’s excursion will allow you to experience the lake and its inhabitants. You will be picked up from your hotel at around 7 am and will be transferred to the port so you can board a fast boat (33km/h) that will take you to Taquile Island. After approximately 2 hours, you will arrive to the pristine sandy beach on Taquile Island and will walk over a pre-Inca path with the most spectacular views of the Island. You will visit a typical house of weavers, learn about their ancient culture and textile techniques. After 3 hours of cultural exploration, you will depart to Llachon-Santa Maria, where at 12:20 pm you will be quickly introduced in an intensive cross-cultural experience, participate in the preparation of the Pachamanca, a traditional way of cooking using underground ovens, and be part of a small ritual to honor Mother Earth. The boat leaves after lunch to Uros Titino Islands, where you will see the last authentic floating island. Afterwards, at 4 pm approx, you will return to Puno, arriving around 5 pm. Optional: A short trip around the floating island by a reed boat is available at an extra cost, payable directly at Uros Islands. Included: Group excursion with Transport, Guide, Cultural activities, Pachamanca Lunch and Entrance fee.
For Luxury class:
At Titicaca lodge you can choose different activities included.
Included: Excursions as mentioned; Accommodation in Puno. (Meals – Breakfast, Lunch). For passengers staying in Titilaka, dinner is also included

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This day passengers staying at Comfort and Superior class accommodation will enjoy a full day tour in Lake Titicaca and the ones in Luxury class will enjoy their included activities at Titilaka lodge. For Comfort and Superior class: Titicaca Cultural ...

8
DAY 8 - LAKE TITICACA TO CUSCO

ALTIPLANO TO THE ANDES

Leaving Puno and Lake Titicaca behind, you’ll start your journey by a comfortable tourist bus to Cusco. The drive is approximately 10.5 hours long and you’ll stop off along the route at some of the most beautiful and authentic locations. Stopping at the once great pre-Hispanic city of Pukara, characterized by its huge pyramids, you will visit the lithic Museum where several artifacts of this period can be admired. The village is also known for its traditional ceramics known as “Toritos de Pukara”.
Following your tour of Pukara, which will last around 35 minutes, you’ll board the tourist bus and head towards your next stop at La Raya. At 14,222 ft (4,335 m) above sea level, this marks the highest point of the route and is here where the Vilcanota River otherwise known as, the Sacred River of the Incas, is born and flows down through the mountains before joining the Amazon River. The tour lasts around 10 minutes before continuing your journey to the fascinating archaeological complex of Raqchi. Stare in amazement at the monumental size of Raqchi and its temple, which has walls reaching up to 49 ft (15 m) and is unique in the Inca Empire. The tour of Raqchi lasts for around 40 minutes and then you will continue to the last stop before arriving at Cusco, Andahuaylillas. This charming 16th Century village has a beautiful Main Square with the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas; the pride of the town and its people. It is one of the most beautiful Baroque churches built under Spanish influence in the Americas and is often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas”. Your tour of Andahuaylillas will last for about 25 minutes before the tourist bus takes you to the final destination of the Capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco. Includes: Entrance fees, Guided visits and Lunch.
Included: Bus tickets and Accommodation in Cusco. (Meals – Breakfast – Lunch).

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Leaving Puno and Lake Titicaca behind, you’ll start your journey by a comfortable tourist bus to Cusco. The drive is approximately 10.5 hours long and you’ll stop off along the route at some of the most beautiful and authentic locations. ...

9
DAY 9 - CUSCO

Exploring Cusco

Walk around the Imperial City of the Incas, starting at the local market of Cusco, where you will experience a bit of Peruvian Culture and daily Cusqueño life. In the market you can find the best variety of vegetables, breads and fruits in the country. Continuing this pleasant walk you’ll visit the impressive Colonial Cathedral in Cusco containing over 400 paintings from the Cusqueña School and several beautiful altars. Afterwards you’ll visit Koricancha, which is considered a religious center of Cusco, geographical and political.
The Temple of Koricancha, was where the Inca paid homage to the Sun god called Inti. Qori means goldwork and Kancha means an enclosed space, bounded by walls. Then you’ll walk uphill a bit to enter the artisan quarter of San Blas, where you’ll be able to appreciate a religious painting and many workshops where, if they are available, you can watch artisans in action. After this you’ll return to your hotel.
Included: Private excursion with Guide and Entrance fees to Koricancha and the Cathedral; Accommodation in Cusco. (Meals – Breakfast).

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Walk around the Imperial City of the Incas, starting at the local market of Cusco, where you will experience a bit of Peruvian Culture and daily Cusqueño life. In the market you can find the best variety of vegetables, breads ...

10
DAY 10 - CUSCO

Day at leisure

A day at leisure to explore Cusco on your own. Get lost in the enormity of stone ruins scattered at Sacsayhuaman, high above Cusco’s city center nearby the Christ Statue peering over the city below. Soak up the energy of the Inka who are said to have harnessed the levitational lift using sound, to move these massive and finely carved boulders into their place in the Andes mountains. You can also walk down the colorful market of San Pedro. Cusco’s Mercado Central de San Pedro is one of the best ways to experience everyday life in the city.
This huge food market is a treat for the senses with its array of colors, exotic smells, mouthwatering local dishes and the sound of vendors selling everything from animal heads to fresh Peruvian juices.
Included: Accommodation in Cusco. (Meals – Breakfast).

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A day at leisure to explore Cusco on your own. Get lost in the enormity of stone ruins scattered at Sacsayhuaman, high above Cusco’s city center nearby the Christ Statue peering over the city below. Soak up the energy of ...

11
DAY 11 - CUSCO TO SACRED VALLEY

THE SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCA

This immersive tour will offer you a closer look at the daily lives of the Inca as well as the small Andean communities of today. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel and will take you through a stunning scenery straight to the Pisac Archaeological Site. The Pisac ruins are filled with impressive Inca architecture but the most impressive feature is the agricultural terracing, which sweeps around the south and east flanks of the mountain in huge and graceful curves. The terracing is joined by diagonal flights of stairs made of flagstones that are set into the terrace walls.
Other highlights of the Archaeological Site are the largest known Inca cemetery and a residential settlement built for farmers. Following this intriguing visit, you will continue your ride to the Amaru Community, where you will be welcomed with music and flowers. The Amaru family will offer a tasting of potatoes and Uchucuta (spicy cream made with local products) and a dress up with local costumes. After a delicious lunch served in an Amaru home, you will take part in an activity to learn more about the different uses and properties of different native herbs. You will also witness a traditional weaving workshop, where you will learn about different wools, the natural dyes obtained from plants and the tailoring techniques needed to create the colorful Peruvian garments. Following this insightful visit, you will stop off at the Pisac market, where you can buy a large variety of arts and crafts, before being transferred back to your hotel.
Included: Private excursion with Transport, Guide, Entrance fees; Accommodation in the Sacred Valey. (Meals – Breakfast, Lunch).

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This immersive tour will offer you a closer look at the daily lives of the Inca as well as the small Andean communities of today. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel and will take you through a ...

12
DAY 12 - SACRED VALLEY TO MACHU PICCHU

VISTADOME TRAIN TO MACHU PICCHU

After breakfast, your private transfer will pick you up from your accommodation in the Sacred Valley and take you to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo. We recommend exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets, the colorful textiles, and charming cafes before your train leaves for Machu Picchu. Boarding the Vistadome train from the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes shaves 2 hours off what normally is a 4-hour journey from Cusco, beginning at the most beautiful part of the stretch, leaving from Ollantaytambo. The Vistadome train has a glass-viewing dome, with large windows allowing you to see from the peaks of the Andes
as they fall down into the flowing rivers on the valley floor, all from the 1st Class comfort of your seat.
Arriving at your hotel of choice in Aguas Calientes at the foot of Machu Picchu, we recommend that you spend a few hours exploring this quaint little town, connected to the world by train. Situated in a deep gorge below Machu Picchu the charm of Aguas Calientes scattered in its cobblestone streets lined by small local restaurants and shops, enclosed by steep cliffs, a misty cloud forest, and two rushing rivers. We suggest having an early dinner tonight as tomorrow you’ll have an early start going to Machu Picchu at sunrise.
Included: Private transfer from Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station; Expedition train ticket for Comfort class, Vistadome train ticket to Aguas Calientes; Accommodation in Aguas Calientes. (Meals – Breakfast, Dinner).

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After breakfast, your private transfer will pick you up from your accommodation in the Sacred Valley and take you to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo. We recommend exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets, the colorful textiles, and charming cafes before your ...

13
DAY 13 - MACHU PICCHU TO CUSCO

THE MYSTERY OF MACHU PICCHU

View Travel Guide for Machu Picchu
Your private guide will accompany you to the Guard Shack at Machu Picchu where you’ll get the best view of this World Wonder, as well as an extended tour and explanation of the history, surrounding areas, and the sacred legend of Machu Picchu. The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu keeps a profound essence of sacred and mystery, which harmonizes with the natural landscape, being a place of great scientific and cultural significance as an expression of the architectural development of Inca culture.

A gourmet lunch is provided by the Sanctuary Lodge at Machu Picchu and then you’ll begin your journey to the Inca Capital of Cusco. Taking the Vistadome train from Aguas Calientes you’ll head through the dramatic landscape of the Sacred Valley until you reach Cusco. Having acclimatized to the altitude the last few days, Cusco’s altitude (11,150ft. above sea level) should be no problem at all at this point, allowing you to really get out and enjoy the town this evening, or get some rest at one of our lovely boutique hotels in Cusco.
Included: Half-day private guided tour of Machu Picchu with transport, private guide and entrance fees, Expedition train ticket to Cusco for Comfort class, Vistadome train ticket to Cusco; Transfer from the train station to your accommodation in Cusco; Accommodation in Cusco. (Meals – Breakfast, Lunch).

Read more

View Travel Guide for Machu Picchu Your private guide will accompany you to the Guard Shack at Machu Picchu where you’ll get the best view of this World Wonder, as well as an extended tour and explanation of the history, surrounding ...

14
DAY 14 - CUSCO

LEAVING PERU OR TRAVEL ONWARD

It is time to hit the road again as you make your way to your next destination where if you are planning to, you can enjoy exploring the beauty and culture of Peru further. Private transfer to the airport.

Included: Private transfer to the airport. (Meals – Breakfast).

It is time to hit the road again as you make your way to your next destination where if you are planning to, you can enjoy exploring the beauty and culture of Peru further. Private transfer to the airport.

Included: Private ...

ACCOMMODATIONS “The Highlights of Peru”

Comfort

  • Lima – Antigua Miraflores
  • Arequipa – Casa Arequipa Boutique Hotel
  • Colca Canyon – Casa Andina Standard
  • Puno – Hotel Sonesta
  • Cusco – Hotel Tariq
  • Sacred Valley – Casona de Yucay
  • Machu Picchu – Casa Andina Standard

Superior

  • Lima – Casa Andina Premium
  • Arequipa – Katari Hotel At Plaza de Armas
  • Colca Canyon – Colca Lodge
  • Puno – Casa Andina Premium Puno
  • Cusco – El Mercado
  • Sacred Valley – Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel & Villas
  • Machu Picchu – El MaPi by Inkaterra

Luxury

  • Lima – Arts Boutique Hotel B
  • Arequipa – Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
  • Colca Canyon – Belmond Las Casitas del Colca
  • Puno – Titilaka
  • Cusco – Inkaterra La Casona
  • Sacred Valley – Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
  • Machu Picchu – Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

ACCOMMODATION & PRICING

(Price estimate for 2 people traveling together)

View Comfort Accommodation
Option 1

Comfort

Travel On A Budget With Style & Comfort


$2,370

Per person
View Superior Accommodation
Option 2

Superior

Travel On A Budget With Style & Superior


$3,030

Per person
View Luxury Accommodation
Option 3

Luxury

Travel On A Budget With Style & Luxury


$5,890

Per person