Affordable Peru

Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport, meet our representative after luggage claim and customs. They will be holding a sign with your name and will drive you to your hotel in Lima.

Today, tour the “City of the Kings.” Begin at the Huaca Pucllana archaeological center, then continue to the historic center to see Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and Casa Aliaga, the oldest colonial mansion in the Americas. Visit the San Francisco Monastery before heading to Barranco, Lima’s bohemian district filled with art galleries, colorful murals, and a lively atmosphere. Return to your hotel. (B)

Depart Lima on a flight to Cuzco, set in the Andes at 11,000 feet above sea level. Upon arrival, meet your private guide and driver for the journey to Urubamba in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, at 8,000–9,000 feet. En route, stop in Chinchero to visit its colonial church, decorated with vivid Cusco School frescoes that blend biblical scenes with Andean symbols in rich colors. Enjoy a weaving demonstration and, if it is Sunday, explore the lively local market. Continue to your hotel in the Sacred Valley. (b,l)

Visit the Ollantaytambo Fortress, known as the last stronghold of the Incas during their resistance against the Spaniards, which fell in 1537. The site stands as a testament to their agriculture, urban ingenuity, knowledge of astronomy, and masterful stone masonry. Enjoy a boxed lunch before ascending into the High Andes to visit the village of Willoq, where traditions and customs of the Inca descendants are still preserved. Return to your hotel in time for dinner.

Board the train at the Ollantaytambo station to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. As the train follows the Urubamba River, admire the breathtaking scenery of steep mountains, lush valleys, and cloud forest unfolding outside your window. Ascend the mountain by shuttle for a privately guided tour of the marvelous citadel, visiting the main plaza, the royal quarters, the Temple of Three Windows, the circular tower, the sacred Sun Dial, and the burial grounds. Then descend the mountain to check into your hotel and enjoy dinner. (b,d)

The morning will be spent at your leisure in the town of Aguas Calientes. If you wish, an optional supplement can be added to watch the sunrise at Machu Picchu and/or climb the famous Huayna Picchu Peak. In the afternoon, return to the train station for your ride back to the Sacred Valley, where you will switch to a vehicle for the final segment of the trip to your hotel in Cuzco. (b)

Today, explore Cuzco, the Royal City and former heart of the Inca Empire, once considered the navel of the world (Qosqo in Quechua). Stroll through the artisan quarter of San Blas, known for its workshops and galleries, visit the Plaza de Armas, wander the narrow streets of the old town, and experience the vibrant San Pedro market with its colorful stalls of local produce and crafts. Continue to the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuamán, a monumental fortress showcasing the Incas’ masterful stonework. Enjoy free leisure time in the afternoon. (b)

Enjoy a morning at leisure in Cuzco to explore its many treasures on your own. Visit art galleries and artists’ workshops, shop for colorful handcrafts, or stop at a local restaurant. Take time to explore museums, the impressive Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas, and Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima and onward. (b)