Luxury Peru: Machu Picchu & the Amazon 2024-2025
Overview
The Route
Begin your journey exploring the ancient Incan marvel of Machu Picchu, where breathtaking landscapes and rich history await. Stay in exquisite accommodations that offer unparalleled comfort and personalized service. Then, venture into the heart of the Amazon rainforest on a luxurious cruise, encountering exotic wildlife and lush, vibrant ecosystems. This unique tour seamlessly combines the thrill of exploration with the indulgence of luxury, offering an unforgettable Peruvian adventure.
Countries Visited
PeruPlaces Visited
Lima Sacred Valley Machu Picchu Cusco Northern Peru Amazon CruisesLuxury Peru: Machu Picchu & the Amazon 2024-2025
11 Days | 10 nightsExperience luxury and adventure in Peru's Machu Picchu & the Amazon
- Embark on a three-night trip onboard the luxurious 'Aria Amazon' to discover the untouched Amazon Rainforest.
- Enjoy daily excursions in the Pacaya-Samira National Reserve, known for its exceptional biodiversity in the Amazon Basin.
- Participate in a guided nature hike in the Sacred Valley, escorted by llamas, and enjoy a tour that includes a sumptuous picnic.
- For a more dynamic experience, you might choose to hike the final segment of the Inca Trail from KM 104 to Machu Picchu.
- Explore Lima, a culinary hub of South America, on a gourmet cuisine tour by bike.
- Witness genuine manifestations of Amazonian culture, like a shamanic ritual
Itinerary
Lima
Upon arrival in Lima, you will be greeted and taken to your accommodation.
Accommodation:
Belmond Miraflores Park
Lima
This morning, embark on a culinary cycling expedition to explore the city's street food offerings. During the journey, make a visit to the Choco Museum to hear a short talk on the significance of coffee and chocolate manufacturing in Amazonian societies. Travel to La Mar, then visit a small food market, then dine at a local restaurant for authentic Peruvian cuisine. When you come back to Miraflores, stop for a drink on the way. Retreat to the hotel to rejuvenate and relax. Today, take a colonial city tour of Lima, starting in the historical center and visiting Casa de Aliaga and Santo Domingo Convent. Tonight, savor a welcome dinner at a high-quality neighborhood restaurant.
Accommodation:
Belmond Miraflores Park
Lima - Sacred Valley
Arrive in Cusco, have lunch at a local restaurant, and then attend a briefing on the history and features of the Inca Trail to prepare for your journey. Travel to the Sacred Valley and visit a facility dedicated to the care of South American camelids like llamas, guanacos, and alpacas.
You can choose to feed them during your visit. Upon arrival at your accommodation, take advantage of the afternoon to relax and adjust to your new surroundings. Have dinner at the restaurant in your hotel tonight.
Accommodation:
Tambo del Inka
Sacred Valley
Start engaging with villagers in Sacred Valley today, then embark on a leisurely llama-guided trek down a track with a view of a lake. Pause for a delightful picnic lunch, followed by a leisurely afternoon culminating in a Scenic Sundowner with a view of a river. Attend supper at your hotel tonight.
Accommodation:
Tambo del Inka
Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu
Discover the Incas' most significant triumph over the invading Spanish at Ollantaytambo, a fortress comprised of enormous stone terraces that encircle the mountain slopes. Experience travelling on the Inca Rail First-Class Train over the Andes to Machu Picchu, enjoying the stunning Peruvian landscape. In the early afternoon, visit the remains with your knowledgeable guide. Imagine life in this grand castle, situated almost 8,000 feet above sea level, as you stroll among the ancient stone walls.
Alternatively, you have the option to trek the Inca Trail for an extra fee. Begin your journey early by taking a Vistadome Train with several windows for a magnificent ride. Disembark at KM 104 and join a guide for a walk that ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), offering a panoramic view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regardless, make sure you arrive for your overnight stay at the sole hotel situated on-site at magnificent Machu Picchu.
Accommodation:
Sanctuary Lodge
Machu Picchu - Cusco
Begin your day early to explore Machu Picchu in the morning mist before the crowds gather, a spiritual highlight for many. Machu Picchu was constructed in the 15th century during the peak of the Inca Empire, with a view of the Urubamba River. American historian Hiram Bingham made the existence of the "Lost City" known to the world in 1911, but locals had been aware of its location for a long time.
The original purpose of the structure is uncertain because the Incas did not leave any written documents. After thoroughly exploring the citadel, return to your accommodation for lunch. Next, take the Vistadome Train back to Ollantaytambo, and proceed to Cusco to either relax or explore alone.
Accommodation:
Belmond Hotel Monasterio
Cusco
- Customise your experience in Cusco by participating in one of these Design Your Day activities.
- Discover the main attractions of Cusco and tour the impressive Sacsayhuaman, constructed from massive stones.
- Accompany a photographer in Cusco to take genuine photographs of the city's remarkable architecture.
- Explore Oropesa to enjoy freshly baked bread at an artisan bakery and visit the Main Plaza of Cusco.
Following lunch at a nearby restaurant, go back to your hotel to enjoy a free afternoon. Join us for supper tonight at the innovative MAP Café restaurant.
Accommodation:
Belmond Hotel Monasterio
Cusco - Iquitos
Today, go to Iquitos through Lima by air. Upon arrival, travel by land through the Peruvian countryside to reach the secluded community of Nauta, located on the banks of the Marañón River, one of the Amazon's primary tributaries. Commence your three-night river-cruise journey on the sophisticated 'Aria Amazon,' a contemporary river cruiser. Get comfortable in your large suite before meeting the experienced naturalist guides who will join you for the adventure. Join us for a meal showcasing cutting-edge Amazonian cuisine crafted by consulting chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, the proprietor of one of Lima's most highly regarded eateries.
Amazon River
Start your day by taking an early morning trip on the Ucayali River in a cosy skiff to spot animals such as parrots, egrets, and monkeys. Following breakfast, opt to engage in canoeing, kayaking, or swimming in the dark waters of Clavero Lake, or explore an Amazonian community where you can contact with indigenous Riberenos.
During twilight, venture along the Yarapa River to discover unique nighttime animals. This evening, come to the deck to stargaze under the stunning Amazon night sky. Your naturalist guide is available to assist you in identifying different constellations.
Accommodation:
Aria Amazon
Amazon River
Embark in skiffs for a wildlife expedition along the Amazon River, followed by an exploration of the Tahuayo River, a black water tributary of the Amazon. Rejoin the barman and chef for a Chef’s Table Experience on board. Create a cocktail that complements the lunch food you are preparing.
Participate in a debate about the plants and animals in your environment, then embark on an exciting jungle trek through the dense Amazon rainforest. When you return in the evening, enjoy the jungle sounds and excellent stargazing while travelling on local boats along the "enchanted river." Later, convene with the crew members of your ship to hear stories about life in the Amazon, then enjoy a goodbye meal on board.
Accommodation:
Aria Amazon
Iquitos
When you come back to Nauta, make sure to explore the local attractions, particularly its vibrant markets showcasing the freshly collected products from the nearby forest. Say goodbye to your crew and leave the 'Aria Amazon'.
Explore the Amazon Forever Manatee Rescue Centre to see endangered manatees up close, as well as paiche fish and learn about conservation efforts to safeguard these important Amazon species. Next, proceed to the airport for your outbound flight.