Discover the wonders of Peru during 13 incredible days crossing this fascinating Andean country, visiting its main cities and cultural attractions. Beginning and ending in the capital, Lima, the trip stops in the culinary capital of Arequipa, the impressive Colca Valley, the indigenous world of Lake Titicaca, and the Inca and colonial wealth of Cusco and Machu Picchu, the 'Lost City of the Incas'.
Lima: Peru's capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a large architectural complex with places such as the historic Casa Aliaga, the Cathedral and theLarco Museum.
Arequipa: Walk through the old 'forbidden city' of Santa Catalina, meet the Jesuit church and enjoy the majestic views of the Misti Volcano.
Colca Valley: Appreciate the elegance of the condor gliding over the valley at more than 4,000 meters depth and visit the remote towns of the area.
Lake Titicaca: Visit Taquile and the floating islands of Uros.
Cusco: The ancient Inca capital is a mixture of pre-Columbian constructions and Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the Cathedral, the fortress of Sacsayhuaman and Puca Pucará.
Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas is hidden on the top of an Andean peak and offers views not only of the mountain range but also of the Inca past.
Upon your arrival in Lima, a transportation service will transfer you from the airport to your hotel. Peru's capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a large architectural complex with places such as the historic Casa Aliaga, the Cathedral and the Larco Museum.
Explore Lima´s old town. Start with a scenic tour in the colonial downtown, which radiates from the Main Square visiting the Cathedral and Casa Aliaga. Continue to the Larco Museum, which is housed in a beautifully restored viceregal mansion. Finally, head to the "Love Park" in the scenic coastal district of Miraflores, where you can admire the cliffs and a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean.
Transfer from Lima to Arequipa. Your journey will start at the Plaza de Armas, next to the magnificent Arequipa´s Cathedral built during the XVII century. Visit to Santa Catalina Monastery, and the ´Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús´ (1590). To end the day, visit the districts of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto, to have a panoramic view of Arequipa´s countryside.
Depart Arequipa, driving through Yura district en route to the Colca Valley. Lunch will be served in the picturesque town of Chivay with transfer in the afternoon to your selected hotel in the Colca Valley. Rest of the day free at leisure or you may visit the local hot springs.
Take a deep breath and appreciate the vastness of the Colca Valley, which is one of the world's deepest canyons with a maximum depth of 4,160 meters. The thrill of the experience is enhanced by the natural spectacle of huge condors flying over the canyon. Descend to the valley floor to discover some of the rustic towns.
Head to Puno from Chivay by taking the turn-off to Patahuasi. After a brief stop at Lagunillas or Cabanillas for lunch, continue the magical tour of the Andean plateau, stone forests, sky-blue lakes populated by white flamingoes flying over 4,000 metres above sea level. You will arrive at Puno after this amazing journey.
