Luxury Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley
Overview
The Route
Begin in the vibrant city of Lima, known for its rich history and world-class cuisine. Travel to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, and explore its captivating culture and architecture. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley and the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu. Conclude your adventure with a luxurious Amazon cruise, where you'll encounter exotic wildlife and lush landscapes. This exquisite tour offers an unparalleled blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and luxurious comfort.
Countries Visited
PeruPlaces Visited
Lima Sacred Valley Machu Picchu CuscoLuxury Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley
8 Days | 7 nightsDiscovering Ancient Wonders: A Journey through Luxury Peru
- Experience Peruvian cuisine at a Chef's Table Gain insight into the cultural significance of Peru and its global impact, and participate in a private street food tour guided by a local chef.
- Engage with the locals in the Sacred Valley of the Incas to learn about their traditional weaving and farming methods during a visit to their village, where you can take part in a Pachamama ceremony.
- Attend a private lecture on Machu Picchu by a distinguished historian in Incan history, followed by a guided tour of the ruins with a local specialist.
- Experience Peru's diverse musical heritage through an engaging private concert by a skilled Andean music specialist.
- Trek the final segment of the Inca Trail from KM 104 to Machu Picchu between April and December.
Itinerary
Lima
Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel situated in the upscale residential area of Miraflores. Established in 1535 by Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro, this city, known as the "City of Kings," combines colonial architecture, pre-Columbian locations, and contemporary amenities.
Accommodation:
Belmond Miraflores Park
Lima
Begin the day by visiting Huaca Pucllana, an archaeological site located in metropolitan Lima. Next, accompany a local chef to a food market and then have lunch at a local restaurant. Later, explore Barranco, a vibrant neighborhood known for its artistic community, and tour the Osma Museum. Explore more of Peru's cuisine through a Chef's Table experience where you may enjoy the delectable meals you have prepared for dinner.
Accommodation:
Belmond Miraflores Park
Sacred Valley
Travel to Cusco, situated at an altitude of 11,000 feet above sea level, where you will be greeted and taken to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. During the journey, stop by an animal sanctuary to engage with South American camelids like llamas and alpacas, and discover the valuable fibers produced from their coats. Next, go to Hacienda Sarapampa to enjoy lunch with the owner, who graciously recounts his family's farming history and gives you a tour of the farm. Proceed to your magnificent resort, meticulously constructed to blend in with the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Accommodation:
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
Sacred Valley
Explore a secluded village where inhabitants offer a firsthand demonstration of their traditions and skills, such as weaving and cooking, for a unique experience exclusive to Kimsa Brand. Engage in one of Peru's ancient and revered ceremonies by accompanying a local shaman in a traditional tribute to Mother Earth (Pachamama). Following the spiritual ceremony, go to the Kuychi Center to see the children at Niños del Arco Iris (Children of the Rainbow). The organization offers education, nutrition, medical treatment, and hope to youngsters in the Sacred Valley. Enjoy lunch on site before heading back to your accommodation. Prepare for your journey to Machu Picchu with a special lecture from a distinguished scholar and Inca expert. Relax for the remainder of the afternoon, admiring the majestic Andes and enjoying a refreshing Scenic Sundowner.
Accommodation:
Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba
Machu Picchu
Today, visit Ollantaytambo, a fortification with large stone terraces built on mountain slopes, known as the location of the Incas' significant triumph against the Spanish invaders. Ride like a local on the Inca Rail First-Class Train across the Andes to Machu Picchu, enjoying the stunning Peruvian scenery. Upon arrival in the early afternoon, tour the remains with your knowledgeable guide and envision life in this grand high-altitude castle as you walk around the ancient stone walls. Machu Picchu was constructed in the 15th century during the peak of the Inca Empire, situated above the Urubamba River. American historian Hiram Bingham made the "Lost City" known to the world in 1911, but locals had been aware of its location for a long time.
For an extra fee, you can choose to take a train ride with a unique experience. Disembark at KM 104 and join a guided hike that ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), offering a panoramic view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regardless, make sure to check in for your overnight stay at the sole hotel situated on the premises of 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 travelers. Visit the "Lost City of the Incas" and then take the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo. Proceed to Cusco and check in at your hotel, which was formerly a 16th-century monastery and is now a national monument. It provides a peaceful escape from the busy city of Cusco, located in the city plaza.
Accommodation:
Belmond Hotel Monasterio
Cusco
This morning, explore Cusco on a city tour visiting the Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and the Santo Domingo Temple. Learn from a knowledgeable local about how the historical conflicts between the Incas and the Spanish influenced the development of modern Peruvian culture. Afterward, see the well-maintained remains of Sacsayhuaman, showcasing the Incan's architectural expertise. This grand citadel, where the most significant fight between the Spanish and the Incas took place, is constructed from massive stones and provides a view of the red-tiled roofs of Cusco.
This afternoon, have the opportunity to relax or go shopping at your own pace. Attend a private Andean music session tonight by a local expert and discover the history of his handcrafted instruments. Appreciate the enduring nature of the Peruvian folk tunes he performs, as well as the distinct cultural identity conveyed via their captivating and immersive melodies. Later, have a goodbye supper at a sophisticated restaurant in Cusco, where the chef creates inventive dishes using local ingredients while staying faithful to Peru's culinary heritage.
Accommodation:
Belmond Hotel Monasterio
Cusco
Today, engage in one of these Design Your Day activities.
- Explore the San Blas Neighborhood, a distinctive and artistic community housing many craftsmen' workshops.
- Explore San Pedro Market and Inca Museum to sample local fruits and cheese, experience daily living, and delve into Peru's history.
- Embark on a guided photography tour with a professional photographer to enhance your skills and photograph Cusco from a local perspective, showcasing its charming small alleys and picturesque houses.
Subsequently, board your departing flight.