Essential Peru: Culture, Landscapes & Ancient Wonders

Transfer Lima Hotel / Lima Airport

At the specified time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Lima Airport for your flight to Arequipa, continuing your journey through Peru’s most remarkable destinations.

Transfer Arequipa Airport / Arequipa Hotel

Upon arrival in Arequipa, you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in before discovering the charm of the city known as the White City.

Half-Day City Tour Arequipa & Santa Catalina Convent

Explore the historic heart of Arequipa and discover the unique blend of colonial architecture and Andean traditions that define this beautiful city.

Begin at the impressive Plaza de Armas, one of Peru’s most elegant main squares, where you can admire its colonial buildings and the famous bronze fountain featuring Tuturutú, a 16th-century soldier whose figure has become part of Arequipa’s identity.

Continue to the fascinating Santa Catalina Convent, a true city within the city. Wander through its colourful courtyards, narrow streets, and beautifully preserved colonial spaces while learning about the stories and secrets hidden behind its walls.

After this introduction to Arequipa’s history and heritage, you will be transferred back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Journey to Chivay

Today, leave Arequipa behind and travel towards one of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders: the Colca Canyon. The journey itself is an unforgettable experience, crossing high-altitude landscapes filled with volcanoes, wildlife, and breathtaking Andean scenery.

Your first stop will be at the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems and the chance to spot native wildlife. Continue ascending through the Andes until reaching around 4,000 metres above sea level, where you can admire views of the impressive Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes, as well as the unique formations of the Stone Forest.

The route continues through Pampa de Toccra, a highland landscape where alpacas graze freely and different bird species can be observed, including the elegant Andean flamingo. Later, reach the Patapampa viewpoint, located at approximately 4,910 metres above sea level, the highest point along the Colca route. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the famous “Circle of Fire”, formed by the region’s chain of volcanoes.

After taking in the incredible scenery, descend towards Chivay, a charming town near the Colca Canyon. Here, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local flavours before settling into your surroundings and continuing your Andean adventure.

Full-Day Uros Islands & Taquile by Speedboat

Today, discover the living traditions of Lake Titicaca, exploring two of its most fascinating islands by speedboat. After pickup from your hotel, begin your journey across the world’s highest navigable lake and immerse yourself in the unique cultures that have flourished here for centuries.

Your first stop is Taquile Island, renowned for its ancestral customs, traditional textiles, and strong community identity. Recognised by UNESCO for its textile art, the island offers an authentic glimpse into Andean life. Visit the Huayllano community, where you can learn more about local agricultural practices, craftsmanship, and the traditions that continue to shape daily life on the island.

Enjoy a local lunch while taking in the spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains before continuing to the remarkable Uros Islands. These unique floating islands, built entirely from totora reeds, are home to communities that have preserved their traditional way of life for generations.

Meet the local inhabitants, discover how these artificial islands are created and maintained, and learn about their fascinating connection with Lake Titicaca. After this cultural encounter, return by speedboat to Puno and your hotel.

Touristic Bus Journey Puno / Cusco

Today, continue your journey through the Andes aboard a scenic tourist bus from Puno to Cusco. Rather than just a transfer, this route becomes an opportunity to discover the landscapes, archaeology, and traditions of southern Peru along the way.

The first stop is Pucará, a charming town known for its ancient culture and distinctive artistic traditions. Visit its museum and archaeological site to discover the fascinating legacy of the Pucará civilisation through its stone sculptures, ceramics, and recovered archaeological pieces.

Continue towards La Raya, the highest point of the route at approximately 4,335 metres above sea level. Here, take a moment to admire the impressive Andean scenery, including views of the snow-capped Chimboya peak and the surrounding mountain range.

After enjoying a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Raqchi, home to the impressive Temple of Wiracocha. This remarkable archaeological complex is known for its monumental adobe and stone structures, some reaching over 14 metres in height.

The final stop before reaching Cusco is Andahuaylillas, where you will visit the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” thanks to its extraordinary baroque decoration, intricate murals, and valuable works of art.

Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be transferred from the bus station to your hotel and can begin exploring the former capital of the Inca Empire at your own pace.

Pre-Columbian Art & Cuisine – Cusco

Discover the many layers of Cusco, a city where Inca heritage and colonial influences coexist at every corner. Your exploration begins at the lively San Pedro Market, where you can experience the colours, aromas, and flavours of everyday Cusco while discovering local products and traditions.

Continue to Koricancha, the legendary Temple of the Sun and one of the most important religious sites of the Inca Empire. Once richly decorated with gold, this ancient palace later became the foundation for the Santo Domingo church, creating one of the clearest examples of the cultural fusion that defines Cusco.

The journey continues uphill to Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress known for its enormous stone blocks and remarkable construction techniques. Then, visit Q’enqo, an archaeological site believed to have been used for important ceremonial rituals during Inca times.

The tour concludes at the Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s historic main square, where you will visit the Cathedral and admire one of the city’s most significant colonial landmarks. After this introduction to Cusco’s history and heritage, you will return to your hotel.

Half-Day Pre-Columbian Art Immersion at MAP by Night

As night falls, continue your cultural exploration at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (MAP), located inside the beautifully restored Casa Cabrera, a historic colonial mansion in the heart of Cusco.

The museum houses a remarkable collection of around 400 ancient pieces, some dating back more than 3,000 years, representing the artistic achievements of Peru’s pre-Inca and Inca civilisations. Accompanied by your guide, explore the museum’s ten themed rooms and discover how ancient Peruvians expressed their beliefs, creativity, and daily life through different materials, techniques, and artistic styles.

The experience continues with dinner at MAP Café, where contemporary Peruvian cuisine meets an elegant setting surrounded by history. Enjoy a memorable evening combining art, gastronomy, and the rich cultural heritage of Cusco.

At the end of the experience, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Full-Day Paracas & Ica Adventure with UTV Ride

Today, leave Lima behind and discover the incredible contrasts of Peru’s southern coast, where the Pacific Ocean, desert landscapes, and traditional flavours come together in one unforgettable experience.

Depart early towards Paracas, a coastal destination known for its rich biodiversity and dramatic scenery. Along the way, enjoy a short stop in Pucusana to stretch your legs and have breakfast at your own expense before continuing south.

In Paracas, board a speedboat towards the Ballestas Islands, often known as the “mini Galápagos of Peru.” During the navigation, admire the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph carved into the desert cliffs and observe the diverse marine life that inhabits this protected area, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and numerous seabirds.

Continue to Ica, a region famous for its sunny climate, vineyards, and pisco production. Visit a local winery to learn about Peru’s traditional spirits through a guided tasting of wine and pisco, followed by lunch featuring regional flavours.

The afternoon brings a change of scenery at the spectacular Huacachina Oasis, a small lagoon surrounded by immense golden dunes. Here, enjoy an exciting UTV ride across the desert and experience the thrill of sandboarding down the dunes, creating unforgettable memories in one of Peru’s most unique landscapes.

At the end of the adventure, return to Lima after a day filled with wildlife, gastronomy, and desert experiences.