This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
River cruises are a relaxed, informal way to travel - there are fewer passengers on board compared to an ocean cruise, which means ample opportunity to make lifelong friends. You will pass through the world's most loved cities and towns; disembark and enjoy a shore excursion or two, or simply wander around and explore on your own.
Platinum Vacations - Luxury at its finest
❖ Exclusivity - Ultra-Small group touring. No more than 12 people
❖ Adults Only - Travel with like-minded adults on all Platinum Vacations tours
❖ Comfort - The best in-destination accommodation including our feature Inspiring Stay at Monasterio, A Belmond hotel
❖ Cruise - 3 nights cruising the Amazon River aboard the luxurious Zafiro
❖ Platinum Highlight - experience the luxury and gastronomy of the Hiram Bingham train
❖ Culinary - with all breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners included, featuring dining experiences designed by renowned chefs and situated in unique locations
❖ Experiences - Fully inclusive and immersive sightseeing and our thoughtfully curated Inspiring Sights
❖ Experts - Join the highly qualified local guides including curator lead museum tour and a unique tour of Cusco guided by a renowned anthropologist
❖ Essentials - Return airport transfers, travel in luxury small coaches, enjoy porterage at all hotels, included gratuities for your local tour guides and driver, plus laundry service
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Platinum Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
As one of our Platinum Vacations tours, this journey sets the benchmark in ultimate comfort and style while travelling: intimate, ultra-small group touring, curated sightseeing, plush accommodation and exclusive culinary experiences, all backed by our industry-leading, 24/7 customer support.
Welcome to Lima! Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
The capital of Peru, Lima is truly a gateway to the country’s deep and fascinating history from pre-Incan civilisation to the Spanish invasion, up to independence. The historic centre of this 'city of kings' is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to the significance and volume of architecture there dating back to its early days in the 1530s.
Today, Lima is a booming city of millions, attracting different types of travellers from across the spectrum: history-lovers, literature nerds, museum enthusiasts, and of course, foodies.
Once you have settled into your hotel, you’re free to spend the rest of the day as you wish, grab a bite to eat and enjoy exploring the city.
Inspiring Stay
This morning after breakfast, we’ll set off on a tour of the bohemian enclave of Barranco, a neighbourhood which, during the summers of the 19th century, was home to the aristocracy of the period. Today, the district is considered to be the city’s hippest, where tranquillity and the bustle live side-by-side. Exhibitions, art installations, and street art flourish here, with the city’s artists, photographers and creators calling this pocket of Lima home.
Our morning continues with a coffee and chocolate pairing hosted by Amanda Jo (AJ) Wildey and Felipe Aliaga of El Cacaotal. AJ and Felipe have designed each tasting experience to take you on a flavour journey through the various cacao and chocolate producing regions of Peru. In this fun master class, Amanda will strive to make you an expert Peruvian chocolate taster, just like her! And who doesn’t love pairing chocolate with coffee? Felipe, an expert coffee guide and certified taster from the Coffee Quality Institute in California, he will be the bridge showing the link between the world of cacao and coffee.
Following your tour we will return to the hotel with free time for further exploration or to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities.
Later this afternoon we will visit the Larco Museum in the Pueblo Libre District. The museum, the oldest in Lima, is housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building and showcases more than 3,000 years of Peru’s pre-Columbian history. It also has an impressive gold and silver jewellery collection, demonstrating the superior skill of the ancient Peruvian artisans. The museum is also famous for its collection of erotic ceramic pieces, mainly from the Mochica culture.
Your private tour will be guided by one of the museum's curators.
Following the tour, enjoy dinner with wine at the museum restaurant, Café del Museo, which serves Peruvian and international cuisine in a dreamy, garden setting.
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Sights
After breakfast and check out, we will head to the airport to take a 1.5 hour flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, we’ll be joined by our local guide at the airport and continue the journey to our hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The rest of the day can be spent at leisure enjoying the facilities of the hotel, or you may wish to explore the local area on an optional tour.
This evening we will enjoy a cocktail reception in the grounds of the hotel, with the traditional drink of Pisco Sour, accompanied with canapes.
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Stay
After breakfast, we’ll set off on an exploration of the Sacred Valley.
We’ll first stop in the rarely visited town of Lamay, then drive to the community, where the locals will warmly welcome us and share their traditions and customs. This exclusive opportunity will give you a genuine experience of traditional community life. We will learn about different varieties of local crops and plants and witness the use of traditional farming tools and techniques still in use.
The women of the community will discuss the important art and process of weaving and we’ll have the opportunity to chat with them and learn about their customs and their role in the field.
For lunch we will dine at the stunning Hacienda Huayoccari, a beautiful homestead steeped in family history. You will be welcomed by a family member before enjoying traditional homemade Peruvian food surrounded by art and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
Following lunch, we’ll visit one of the last remaining Incan towns, Ollantaytambo. Once fiercely guarded by a massive fortress, we’ll discover the large archaeological complex of what used to serve as a wayside inn for royal delegations on long journeys. Surviving structures include walls and towers that protected the citadel from possible invasion.
We’ll then head back to the hotel where the rest of the evening can be spent as you wish.
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Sights
Today we’re visiting a very special highlight of this tour and one of the most important sites in the country: the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
After breakfast, we’ll be picked up at the hotel and head to the train station to board the Vistadome train. It is a comfortable 90 minute train journey to Aguas Calientes, with the most wonderful scenery to enjoy on the way. On arrival, we will then board a bus that will drop us off at the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Unearthed for modernity by American explorer, Hiram Bingham, more than a century ago, Machu Picchu is considered one of the seven wonders of the world. Its architectural beauty, spectacular natural setting, and the energy that radiates from its enigmatic buildings will take your breath away. We will follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas as we tour the magical sight, led by our specialist local guide.
A delicious lunch at a local restaurant is included today.
We will then head back to the station to catch the train to Cusco. Our return journey will be on the luxurious Hiram Bingham train. Relax as you settle into the sumptuous comfort of one of the world's most renowned train journeys. Throughout the 4 hour journey enjoy a gourmet dinner with wine served in the dining carriage, be entertained by live music and enjoy a cocktail in the bar.
Upon arrival your guide will take you to your hotel for check in.
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Stay
Note: From January to April, when weather conditions may affect the railway line, the journey from Machu Picchu to Cusco will be a bimodal service combining train service from Machu Picchu to the Sacred Valley (approx 2 hours 40 minutes) & bus travel from the Sacred Valley to Cusco.
After breakfast, we will take a morning walking tour of magical and hidden Cusco, led by a leading anthropologist in Andean history and communities. Undoubtedly, Cusco stands as one of Peru's most captivating cities. Beyond its captivating Spanish baroque architecture, vibrant sea of red rooftops, and enduring Inca walls, the thoroughfares of this once imperial capital harbours tales of love, deceit, and ancient lore. Uncovering these narratives, nestled between reality and myth, offers the most personal insight into Cusco.
Our exploration will lead us through iconic plazas, ancient Inca structures, and winding alleys bearing intriguing monikers such as "Seven Snakes," "Rainbow," and "Purgatory," among others. Culminating our journey, we'll indulge in offerings of typical cuisine at a traditional Picantería, where food is accompanied by the local corn beer.
The afternoon is free to continue exploring at your own pace, shop for souvenirs or simply relax and enjoy the facilities of your hotel.
This evening we will take a short walk to our included dinner, The MAP Café, located in the central courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. Experience a 5 course tasting menu, explained by MAP´s gastronomic advisor.
Afterwards, you’ll be accompanied back to your hotel.
Inspiring Tastes
Inspiring Sights
After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Lima. On arrival in Lima you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to relax. You may wish to consider visiting one of Lima’s many museums, the colonial quarter or the nearby ruins of Huaca Pucllana.
This morning you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight to the remote city of Iquitos. On arrival you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to the port town of Nauta. A picnic lunch will be provided for the journey which will take approximately 90 minutes by road. Here you will board the Zafiro, your luxurious home on the Amazon for the next three nights.
Our team will escort you to your suite, specially designed for your comfort with comfortable beds, luxurious Peruvian pima cotton sheets, plush cotton bathrobes, air conditioning, and a private bathroom with shower and amenities. All suites have floor to ceiling panoramic windows.
Before setting sail, our bartender will craft a cocktail using local fruits and pisco, Peru's renowned national liquor. Take advantage of this opportunity to indulge while taking in the breathtaking views of the river from the observation deck or the panoramic vistas offered by our indoor and outdoor lounges.
As we embark on our journey, our naturalist guides will provide a comprehensive overview of the trip's itinerary, including details on activities, routes, wildlife and vegetation, as well as the geographical and historical context. Should you have any questions our guides are readily available to assist you.
Following the welcome briefing, we'll indulge in delightful appetisers and take some time to relax before our next adventure on skiffs to Yacapana. Here, you'll embark on a thrilling night excursion in search of alligators, frogs, and other nocturnal species that emerge as the sun sets.
Afterwards, we'll return to the boat for some leisure time until dinner. Commence your journey with a unique Peruvian dinner infused with Amazonian flavours. Our menu offers a diverse range of options, including a vegetarian choice. Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or preferences.
For those keen to catch the dawn, an early morning excursion on the river by skiff (motorised flat bottom boat) in search of birdlife such as toucans and other wildlife.
Return to the Zafiro for a sumptuous breakfast which offers a daily selection of traditional dishes, Peruvian specialties, freshly baked homemade products and a variety of freshly prepared juices.
After breakfast head out on the river again in search of pink river dolphins, sloths and a variety of primates. Your naturalist guide will seek out wildlife for viewing and photography opportunities in the Pacaya Samira National Reserve.
Return to the Zafiro with time to freshen up and enjoy a delicious lunch on board. Following lunch you may choose to take a siesta in your luxurious cabin or watch the river pass by. For those who are interested, naturalist guides will be available for a talk about the Pacaya Samira National Reserve. After a restful afternoon head back out on the water for further exploration and wildlife viewing as the sun sets over the mighty Amazon.
Dinner will be served on board the Zafiro.
After breakfast head out on the skiff and explore the narrow tributaries to the Amazon river. The Amazon contains such a variety of wildlife there is always something new to see with each day. You will have the opportunity to fish for piranha or take a dip in the river if you dare!
Lunch will be served on board followed by time to relax. Perhaps enjoy a soak in the onboard jacuzzi or book a massage (additional cost paid onboard).
This afternoon visit a local community to see how the people live and learn about their customs. Your guide will act as an interpreter. Return to the Zafrio by skiff and take time to appreciate the spectacular colours of the sunset.
This evening enjoy live music on board before your farewell dinner.
Note: The order of included excursions throughout your journey, and inclusion of walking activities, may vary subject to the time of year and water levels.
After a final breakfast on board it’s time to say goodbye to the Zafiro crew as you transfer back to Iquitos Airport. But the adventure does not end here. Along the way you will visit the Manatee Rescue Centre.
Biologists and volunteers dedicate their efforts to the welfare of manatees, an endangered species that authorities have rescued from illegal captivity. Through this endeavour, biologists go through the process of caring for and rehabilitating manatees before their eventual release back into their natural habitat. Additionally, there is the opportunity to witness the rehabilitation of other rescued animals of the Amazon.
On arrival in Lima you will be met and transferred to your hotel when the remainder of the evening is at your leisure.
Following a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, your adventure comes to an end. At the appropriate time you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight.
We hope that you have been truly inspired by your journey through Peru.
Comfort - Staying at a Platinum Vacations hotel is an experience in itself. Our experts select the best in-destination hotels, lodges and villas in the perfect location. To ensure your holiday is truly memorable, we include our favourite Inspiring Stays. Each Inspiring Stay provides an authentic, experiential, and cultural experience unique to the destination.
Culinary - Culinary exploration is a highlight of any destination. Our Platinum Vacations provide the perfect balance between self-adventure and curated culinary inclusions. Our experts have sourced a range of special experiences, from private dining to chef table dinners to allow your taste buds to embark on a sojourn through the destination.
Experiences - Platinum Vacations ensure you'll experience a full immersion of the destination. Experience the must-haves expected on a well-rounded itinerary, plus the extras that make it really special: incredible, all-inclusive sightseeing, enriching activities and one-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Platinum Vacations provide the discerning traveller with the benefits you would expect to provide a fully immersive travel experience like no other.
Handpicked feature accommodation selections.
Lima - Country Club Lima Hotel. Staying at Country Club Lima Hotel means being part of Lima’s history: cosmopolitan, historic, unique. Each of the hotel’s corners and corridors hides a legend, a story, a mystery. It is a storied icon that keeps transforming itself, preserving in its corners legends, visits of celebrities and countless social gatherings lived in one of the most exclusive areas of the capital.
Sacred Valley - Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. Discover a luxurious experience like no other at Tambo del Inka a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa Valle Sagrado. Our upscale hotel in Urubamba Peru is nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and provides you with a gateway to the vast cultural richness of this region.
Cusco - Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel. 16th-century former monastery and a retreat where opulent design and spiritual energy beckons you in. A sense of peace prevails in our Cusco haven, where soft-toned woodwind instruments soothe and serenade while you explore the hotel’s gilded corridors, resplendent with historic artwork.
Amazon Cruise - Zafiro. Enjoy a magnificent experience aboard a Zafiro luxury cruise. The large panoramic-view window suites are ideal for you to admire the Jungle's beauty while the open areas invite you to breathe nature and relax, creating a more than perfect adventure.
Exclusive or unique culinary experiences designed to inspire your senses.
Enjoy an included selection of experiences designed to give you a richer travel experience.
Zafiro presents a unique opportunity to explore the Amazon in unparalleled comfort and style, a level of luxury seldom found in such remote destinations. The elegant design seamlessly combines modern amenities with traditional elements. Zafiro features an elegant dining room, relaxing lounge & bar offering panoramic viewing, spa, gym and outdoor jacuzzi.
All spacious suites have floor to ceiling panoramic windows, air conditioning, double beds convertible to king-size beds with 100% peruvian pima cotton bed sheets, private modern bathroom with shower, hot water 24 hours a day, desk, closet, hair dryer, safe and mini fridge.
Secure your trip with a ₹3,999.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
Tipping inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry. Your tour includes tips for your drivers, local guides and porterage. Tips are also included for the crew and naturalist guides on the Amazon cruise.
You may consider tipping your tour leader(s) for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is ₹222,921.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
Minimum of 2 and maximum 12 people
Note: Zafiro accommodates a maximum of 40 guests onboard
Adults Only
Adults Only - Travel with like-minded adults on all our Platinum Vacations tours. Note: Days 1-7 are guaranteed to be Adults Only. The Zafiro Amazon cruise does allow for children 7 years upwards but primarily caters to adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
Were you looking for another departure date?
23 Feb 2023
This winter solstice festival is a cultural highlight in Peru The history of Inti Raymi An important part of Peru’s cultural heritage, Inti Raymi is celebrated throughout the former Incan Empire on 24 June. Originally a nine-day tribute to Inti, the Incan sun god, and Pachamama, the mother earth goddess, it dates bac...
23 Feb 2023
From kitschy alpaca pens to hand-woven hats, souvenirs are serious business in Peru As the former capital of the Inca empire and a stronghold of Andean tradition, Peru is widely considered one of the world’s most culturally-rich nations. Visit the Sacred Valley to watch locals weave with technicolour thread or shop f...
21 Feb 2023
Food, sights and ancient attractions await in this magnificent South American nation Peru is fast becoming one of South America’s hottest destinations. Adventurers and culture vultures are well catered for, thanks to the country’s astonishing array of attractions and rich Quechua history, while foodies will relish it...
