This tour is escorted by local city guides in each location. The local guides will join you during included activities and local representatives will assist with transfer arrangements. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
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.
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
✓ Small, intimate group experience – no more than 20 people
✓ Escorted by a local, expert, English-speaking guide in each city
✓ Guaranteed departures
✓ Incredible sightseeing including quaint Cusco, the Inca treasures of the Sacred Valley, the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and a three-day exploration of the Peruvian Amazon
✓ All internal flights, coach, boat and rail transportation
✓ Hand-picked 4-star accommodation throughout, including 2 nights at an award-winning eco-lodge in the heart of the Amazon rainforest
✓ Ride the iconic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, on the foothills of Machu Picchu
✓ Breakfast daily, 3 lunches, 4 dinners including a welcome and farewell dinner with wine
✓ Explore Lima’s chic Miraflores on an escorted walking tour
✓ Beat the crowds, arrive early to Machu Picchu and be astounded by the grandeur of this bucket list archaeological site with a guided tour
✓ Option to add Galapagos Islands with our 18 Day Highlights of Peru & The Galapagos tour
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Lima! On arrival, make your own way to your hotel located in the chic neighbourhood of Miraflores.
Alternatively, you can pre book a private arrival transfer where a representative will meet you on arrival and transfer you to the hotel. Further details can be found under the ‘Extra Services’.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you meet your local tour leader and fellow travellers for a tour briefing about the upcoming activities. Following this join your local guide for a moring walking tour around Miraflores taking you through some of the most popular sights and experiences that this area has to offer. Start your tour at Parque Kennedy, a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Take a stroll around the park and see the famous cat sculptures that are located here, then continue Avenida Jose Larco, a bustling street that's lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Continue walking down Avenida Jose Larco to see many of the major landmarks in Miraflores, including Parque del Amor and the Miraflores Boardwalk. Arrive at Larco Mar, a modern mall built into the side of a cliff that offers stunning views of the ocean. You can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Following our tour, return to the hotel early this afternon or continue exploring this lively area on your own. Alternatively, you may like to join one of the optional afternoon tours offered below.
Tonight, enjoy an Inspiring Taste with a welcome dinner at one of Lima’s best Peruvian restaurants. Relax with a welcome Pisco Sour (Peru’s national drink) and then enjoy a culinary journey through Peru’s culture with a three course meal including a glass of wine.
Note: Above itinerary may vary depending on the day of the week or at the discretion of your local guide to ensure that you are seeing the best that this area has to offer.
This tour begins with a visit to the “Pucllana Pyramid” a magnificent ceremonial and archeological centre built in the 4th century A.D. and considered a “sacred village” by the Incas. The Viceroyalty of Peru was the most important of the Spanish Empire and Lima was its capital.
Next you’ll visit the colonial side of the city and see attractions such as the Cathedral, the Viceroyalty of Peru, Lima's Plaza Mayor (Main Square), Government Palace, City Hall, and other important monuments. Later, you’ll visit the Convent of San Francisco, a seventeenth-century architectural complex that includes a church, a convent and a square. The facade of the church, which has an image of the Immaculate Conception painted on it, was carved in stone and is characterised by its Corinthian columns. You will also see the catacombs, a dark chamber found under the church.
This afternoon learn about Peruvian food with a Lima food tour that will teach you to prepare traditional recipes handed down over generations. First, stop at a local market to discover a huge variety of fruits, vegetables, and fiery spices then you will be transferred to a residential neighbourhood free from tourist traps. Step into the house of a local family, where the owner will share family recipes and traditions. You’ll learn to prepare a classic ceviche, Peru’s national dish, made with fresh fish caught that day and a delicious mix of limes, onions, coriander, and a few other secret ingredients. Also learn to prepare a delicious causa limeña made with potatoes, chilies, and lime to accompany your ceviche. And to round it all out, you’ll enjoy a pisco sour, with a demonstration on how to make them using an original recipe. For Peruvians, sharing cuisine represents more than just eating — it represents knowledge, tradition, home life, and, of course, fun. After this amazing culinary experience, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to the Peruvian jungle town of Puerto Maldonado – gateway to the Amazon.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and taken to a nearby office where your luggage will be securely stored as you take your overnight bag for your journey into the Amazon jungle. We take a 45 minute road transfer and then board a motorboat for a 30 minute ride along the warm, calm waters of the Tambopata River. Enjoy a packed lunch as you admire the incredible sites and sounds of the jungle around you before we arrive at our ecolodge. Explorer’s Inn Tambopata Ecolodge is an award-winning eco-lodge located inside the Tambopata National Reserve, regarded by some scientists as the most biodiverse place on Earth. The lodge is 100% owned by the local community and was founded with the mission of promoting sustainability through ecotourism and conservation efforts. All staff are members of the community and all income generated goes directly to support this indigenous community in one of Peru’s most remote corners.
After an opportunity to relax and settle in, our naturalist guide will give an informative presentation about the distinct species of caiman that can be observed in the Tambopata National Reserve, in order to allow guests to learn more about this endangered species.
Following dinner at the lodge, we take a night cruise in search of caimans and other nocturnal reptiles and animals that inhabit the Tambopata River. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, learn of the conservation efforts used by the lodge to preserve this pristine ecosystem.
In order to have the best chance of observing endangered Giant River Otters, it is necessary to wake up very early to board the boat for a 20 minute ride to the Tres Chimbadas Lake. Along the way your naturalist guide will explain the principal ecosystems of the tropical forest, as well as the diverse species of fauna that we see on the way. While we keep an eye out for the River Otters, we will enjoy a snack and a short journey around the lake on small catamarans to best enjoy the variety of wildlife that can only be found in this ecosystem. Also we will do Piranha fishing, before we return to the lodge by boat to enjoy lunch. .
This afternoon, we will visit a local farm close to the lodge, which belongs to a member of the local community. This activity directly supports the economic development of the La Torre community and gives us the opportunity to see and try various natural products of the area.
We return to the lodge in time for dinner.
Wake early and take a 40 minute walk to visit the parrot claylick - an exposed area of clay with higher concentrations of salts and other important minerals where masses of parrot species converge to eat. We will then walk back to the lodge and along the way we may see other animals in their natural habitat.
After returning to the lodge for breakfast we will transfer by boat and road back to Puerto Maldonado for our included flight to the beautiful city of Cusco.
Welcome to Cusco! Upon your arrival, you will be met at the airport by your local guide and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of the city. After check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy this historical city on your own.
The city itself is the continent's oldest continuously inhabited city and was the home of the Inca Empire for two centuries before the Spanish built their first capital here. Today Cusco is a fascinating combination of both cultures. Inca-built walls line the central streets and many of the elegant colonial buildings are built on or around Inca foundations. This is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend and is a perfect base for explorations into the Inca world or to enjoy a range of outdoor activities and incredible cuisine.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before meeting your guide for a walking tur of Cusco. Visit some of the most characteristic places in the centre of Cusco, such as the Stone of Twelve Angles at the Inca Roca Palace. You’ll walk by the Qoricancha temple, considered the most sacred Inca building. According to archaeologists it housed over 1000 priests and attendants. It was built over an Inca palace dedicated to the worship of the Sun.
Then, you will visit the heart of the city, the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial arcades and four churches. Pass by the beautiful “Cathedral” of Cusco. This enormous Cathedral was built in the XVI. It contained nearly 400 colonial paintings, including many from the Cusco School, which was prominent in the 17th century. The cathedral is a fine example of colonial baroque art.
Finally, explore the San Pedro Market where you will find vegetables, meats, local cheeses (which you should certainly try), local chocolates, herbal medicines and many local handicrafts. It’s a great place to purchase some souvenirs.
In the late afternoon, enjoy an Inspiring Taste as you learn all about one of the most traditional drinks of South America, the Pisco Sour! We’ll visit a local venue to learn about the distillation process, before learning what it takes to blend the perfect Pisco Sour – and yes, you will get to savour the frothy result of your hard work.
In the morning, travel approximately 2 hours through the Sacred Valley on the outskirts of Cusco. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, this lush, fertile valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls.
Visit the Chichubamba community to gain a greater insight into the local lifestyle with a traditional Andean lunch and a visit to a local workshop. If our visit coincides with market day you can spend time browsing the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos and maybe practise some of the local language.
Later you will continue the tour visiting the town of Ollantaytambo which has been built over an ancient Inca town. This is a magnificent example of Inca urban planning and one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish. Ollantaytambo's archaeological site is located to the east of the Plaza de Armas. The upper terraces of this site offer great photo opportunities of the squared grid town below. Following the tour, we travel to Urubamba and check-in to our accommodation for the night. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Today you will be transferred to Ollantaytambo train station where you will board the tourist train towards Aguas Calientes, a little town close to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
The train ride to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful journeys you can experience in Peru. The journey, which takes approximately two, passes through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, then descends gradually along the edge of the Urubamba River, before finally reaching the cloud forest. The train reaches its last stop in Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes), on the foothills of Machu Picchu.
On arrival, check into your hotel where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Today is an early start. By 6.30am you will board a bus for the 20 minute ride to Machu Picchu - one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a jewel in South America’s crown.
At 2430 metres above sea level, Machu Picchu is in the middle of a tropical mountain forest, in an extraordinarily beautiful setting. It was probably the most amazing creation of the Inca Empire at the height of their reign. The stonework has to be seen up close to truly comprehend its intricate beauty. Giant walls, terraces and ramps seem as if they have been cut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments.
Upon arrival, we’ll enter the archaeological zone of Machu Picchu where your guide will show you the most important sectors of this great Inca City, such as the great Intiwatana (solar clock) and the Sun Temple, among others. Machu Picchu is divided into two sectors, the urban sector in the northern part and the agricultural sector on the south-east side.
After the tour, we’ll return to Machu Picchu Pueblo by bus before taking the tourist train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus ride to Cusco where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Today is free for you to recover from a busy day and to enjoy the stunning town of Cusco at our own pace.
If you are feeling active, perhaps consider taking an optional tour to the ever photogenic Palcoyo Mountain, commonly known as the Rainbow Mountain. Your local guide is at hand to assist you with suggested options today.
Tonight, come together to enjoy an Inspiring Taste as we bid farewell to Peru at a dinner located in one of Cusco’s traditional eateries in the heart of the majestic Inca city of Cusco. Toast the night with a welcome Pisco Sour followed by a 3-course dinner showcasing Peruvian flavours with a glass of wine accompanied by an artistic folkloric show.
Your tour concludes at the hotel after breakfast.
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”
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.
No strenuous or fast-paced walks are required to complete this itinerary. However, you must be able to walk for approximately 2 to 3 kilometres in (at times) hot and humid conditions, or muddy and slippery paths. You also need to be able to get on and off small boats in the Amazon Jungle – though assistance is always provided.
Travelling at altitude Cusco sits at 3,399 metres above sea level where it’s common for travellers to experience some adverse health effects due to altitude – regardless of age, gender and fitness. It's important that you discuss this itinerary and your travel plans with your doctor beforehand. Prescription medication to prevent altitude sickness is available. If left untreated, altitude sickness can lead to serious health complications or even be fatal. While on tour, safety is paramount and it’s important that you discuss any altitude sickness symptoms with your local guide, so that appropriate medical attention can be provided. Follow this link for more helpful information on altitude sickness.
Yellow fever According to the World Health Organisation, yellow fever is present in some destinations on this itinerary (Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro & the Amazon Jungle in Peru). The best prevention of mosquito bites is to simply wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) long-sleeved, breatheable garments and to use mosquito repellent.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver 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 $582.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended 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
2-20 people
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as 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.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Please note: Both optional tours operate at similar times, so only one may be chosen
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
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