This 7 day “on-the-go” program features the highlights of Peru in an active itinerary which includes several walking tours as well as some early starts and long days.
DAY 1, Tuesday – Depart for Peru
Depart for Peru. Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Lima
DAY 2, Wednesday – Lima City Tour
This morning’s tour of Lima, with its 2000 years of history, begins at the colonial center of the city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its historic buildings surrounding the splendid Plaza Mayor. View the impressive Palace of the Archbishop with its fine carved balcony, the opulent Government Palace, official residence of the President, and the 16th century Cathedral of Lima whose first stone was laid by Pizarro. Continue to the 17th century Monasterio de San Francisco complex with its magnificent tiles, ornate carved ceilings, exceptional paintings and world-renowned library. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure or, join the optional not to be missed tour to the Larco Herrera Museum, considered the best museum in Lima, housed in a restored 18th century mansion. Here, admire the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian masterpieces and a stunning exhibition of gold and priceless jewels. This afternoon, join your Tour Manager for a briefing about the wonderful journey that awaits you. Tonight, perhaps attend the optional Peruvian dinner featuring delicious local specialties along with a delightful musical performance, or try one of Lima’s world-class restaurants known for its fusion cuisine
Optional: Half Day Larco Herrera Museum (PM)
Optional: Dinner & Show in Lima (PM)
Overnight: Lima
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 3, Thursday – Fly to Cuzco, Afternoon at Leisure
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cuzco is declared the Historical Capital by the Constitution of Peru and hosts nearly 1 million visitors every year. The balance of the day is at leisure to explore on your own or participate in the optional Highlights of Cuzco tour that visits the Colonial Cathedral, Temple of the Sun, and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman
Optional: Half Day Highlights of Cuzco (PM)
Overnight: Cuzco ▲
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Friday – Discover Machu Picchu
Early this morning, time permitting, meet children at a local school before transferring to the Sacred Valley’s Ollanta Station. Board the Inca Rail Executive Train for Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, arriving in the early afternoon. Also known as “The Lost City of the Incas”, Machu Picchu was built circa 1450 and abandoned only 100 years later. The purpose of this splendid city is still a mystery to modern historians. Enjoy exploring the ancient citadel and marveling at its corridors, ceremonial centers, and terraces. This evening, savor a Peruvian dinner at your hotel
Overnight: Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Saturday – Return to Cuzco
This morning, enjoy a little time at leisure before departing Aguas Calientes for your return to Cuzco. Upon arrival in Cuzco, transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure
Overnight: Cuzco
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Sunday – Fly to Lima, Farewell Dinner
This morning transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy your last evening in Peru and say goodbye to your Tour Manager and fellow travelers at the Farewell Dinner
Overnight: Lima
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7, Monday – Depart Peru
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight*
Meals: Breakfast
▲ Due to the high elevation, travel in the Peruvian highlands may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider.
* Note: Some flights depart shortly after midnight in the very early morning of Monday.!