PERU MAGIC
Group departure dates and price to be confirmed.
Group Size small: 10/14 persons all ages.
Join and explore Peru with us, your group will be led by Stuart Wicks owner of Travel Peru with more than twenty years living there. Enjoy the adventure with us, plus a great social experience. On arrival to Lima, enjoy two nights and become familiar with your new surroundings before flying to Arequipa where we will begin our overland experience. Journey by private bus to the Colca Canyon, Puno, Cusco and Machu Picchu before finally returning from Cusco to Lima by plane. This program will give you time and space to enjoy this wonderful country and not to be constantly on the go. With this fourteen-day program come to know Peru, as we visit many places of interest and beauty. As your tour leader, I’ll be able to share what I know and love of Peru and this can engender a close group feeling/experience. Our group size will be kept to a maximum of 14 persons. We have chosen some nice Tourist Class properties with plenty of opportunity to sample the great cuisine. Please note some meals are included in the program.
There is always the option to extend your programme if you so wish, e.g. to visit the jungle, travel to the North of the country, or enjoy the beautiful beaches, just lets us know and we can advise you.
We look forward to seeing you!
All our groups are kept to a nice size which keeps that personalised feeling amongst everyone.
Lima-Arequipa-Colca Canyon-Puno-Cusco-Sacred Valley-Machu Picchu – Cusco-Lima.
14 Days/ 13 Nights
13 Nights: Hotels.
13 Breakfasts/ 06 Lunch’s/ 1 Dinner
Private Tours
Tour Leader
Day 01: (Fri): Arrive to Lima
Upon arrival to Lima Airport, we will be met and transferred to our hotel in the fashionable district of Miraflores by the sea. This district is very open and attractive with many restaurants, shops and good walks as well as easy access into the centre of the capital, Lima. Overnight.
Day 02: (Sat): Lima
It is always in my opinion worth a full day in Lima to know a little about this city, its historical centre and dine in one of the many exquisite restaurants in and around the area of Miraflores. Peru has such a high recognition in the world of international cuisine.
In the morning you can relax in your hotel or we can walk the Malecon for some great ocean views, feel the heat and the sea smells as we stroll along the promenade lined with beautiful parks and sculptures. Stop and enjoy a Peruvian coffee and soak up the hustle and bustle of this capital city, visit the artisan market and take a casual preview of the amazing quality of crafts that you will get to see throughout your trip.
In the afternoon our local guide will collect us from our hotel for the first of many experiences we will have together. Visit Lima’s historical centre, the main square or Plaza de Armas with its Cathedral which was first built in 1555 and in 1746 was destroyed by a massive earthquake. It was then rebuilt on the same site under the direction of a Jesuit priest called Juan Rehr, you will find both its facade and interior are austere with its remarkable wooden choir stalls, altars and the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, who conquered the Inca Empire of Peru; he died in 1541. Going around the corner we will discover the old Church of San Francisco with its Convent, Art Museum, Cloisters, Catacombs and a large square outside. Afterwards we will walk and enjoy the panoramic view of the large main square with the Government Palace, the Municipal Hall and the old Victorian Train Station “Desamparados”. Boarding our bus drive through the very old streets feeding of the main square with its spectacular and traditional old Mansions and overhanging Moorish styled balconies. Continue through the classic and modern Lima before finally arriving back to Miraflores where we started and its beautiful ocean views.
In the evening, we can walk in Miraflores and enjoy the night atmosphere of this popular district before returning to our hotel. At the end of your first full day you will begin to know more about the culture and life here in Peru. Overnight. (B)
Day 03: (Sun): Lima /Arequipa
In the morning transfer to Lima Airport, on arrival to this small delightful, beautiful city of Arequipa with its skyline dominated by Misti a very old and still active volcanic mountain, we will be met and taken to our hotel. In the afternoon meet our local guide for a tour of Arequipa’s highlights. The first stop the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesus which exemplifies the city’s distinctive architectural heritage. The church exterior is a masterpiece of Andean baroque details sculpted from white sillar stone, while the interior displays a collection of paintings and wood carvings from the Cusco School of Art. The highlight is San Ignacio Chapel, the former sacrist with a stunning dome and walls covered in multicoloured murals depicting rainforest flora and fauna — an artefact of the Jesuits’ missionary efforts in the Amazon. Your next stop is the Plaza de Armas where the elegant stone-sculpted facade of the Basilica Cathedral steals the spotlight. You’ll continue to Santa Catalina Monastery, where the Spanish colony’s wealthiest nuns once resided within a convent big enough to have its own streets and plazas. The final stop on this tour will be a mirador (lookout point), either Yanahuara or Carmen Alto, where you will be able to get pictures of Misti Volcano looming over the city.
Evening free. Enjoy dinner (Not included) at one of Arequipa’s many fine restaurants; recommended dishes include rocoto relleno and chupe de camarones, two Arequipenian specialities. Visit the Plaza de Armas for evening photos of the Cathedral. Then back to your hotel for some rest before an early morning departure to the Colca Canyon. Overnight. (B)
Day 04: (Mon): Arequipa / Colca Canyon
In the morning we will board our bus for our exciting journey to one of the deepest Canyons in the world – “The Colca Canyon.”
Keep your eyes open and your camera ready because the drive is among the most spectacular in the Andes. From the White City of Arequipa, we will gradually ascend to the highland plains and enter the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, which includes the volcanoes Misti and Chachani within its borders as well as free-roaming herds of Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas, and Guanacos. You will reach Patapampa Pass at 15,300 feet (4,820 meters) above sea level before beginning the descent into the Colca Canyon with breathtaking views of agricultural terraces along the way. On arrival to the small town of Chivay we will stop for lunch, then drive to La Calera where you can soak in the natural hot springs or simply enjoy the beautiful terraced landscape that surrounds you.
In the afternoon we will drive a short distance to our hotel and enjoy a relaxing night under the starlit Andean sky. Overnight (B, L)
Day 05: (Tue): Colca Canyon
Early in the morning we will make a departure to the “Condor’s Cross” from where the great Andean bird, the Condor may be spotted flying in circles above still farmed green pre-Hispanic terraces. Enjoy the impressive panorama of the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the World (3,180 m). On the way visit the Mirador of Wayrapunko, Antahuilque, Choquetico, where you will find the famous Hanging Tombs. At the Town of Yanque, visit the beautiful church and its characteristic cobbled stone streets among other attractions, after lunch and return to Chivay via the town of Maca. In the afternoon for those who wish we can explore more of the valley. Overnight. (B, L)
Day 06: (Wed): Colca Canyon / Puno
In the morning depart to Puno passing by Lagunilla where you will see the typical flora of the area, wild birds, sheep, vicuña and llama, with the ever-impressive Andean Mountain Range, Box Lunch provided. By early afternoon arrive to Puno and our hotel. Rest of the day free to explore the local town of Puno. Overnight. (B, BL)
Day 07: (Thu): Puno
In the morning we will begin our full day visit to the floating island, known as “Uros” which is on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable Lake in the world and located 4 km / 2.5 miles from Puno. The original inhabitants of these floating islands are said to descend from one of the most ancient peoples of the America’s and still to this day practice their ancient traditions. Their dwellings made of totora reeds are built on the surface of Lake Titicaca. Afterwards you will make your way by boat to the unique Island of Taquile where time appears to have stopped. The Mediterranean atmosphere of this place is striking, with its steps of stone and its houses centred around the square. Its indigenous community that lives here, has around 350 families that are descendants of the Incas and are well known for their textile activities, such as their beautifully woven chumpis (belts), chullos (caps), and ojotas (sandals). According to the custom, officials are distinguished by black or brown caps. Taquile also offers a magnificent lake landscape from where the impressive snowfalls of the Cordillera Real (Real mountain chain) can be seen. Lunch and in the afternoon return by boat to Puno and your hotel, overnight. (B, L)
Day 08: (Frd): Puno / Cusco
In the morning board our bus for the full day journey to Cusco with our local guide. We will make a stop for lunch and along the way visit the different sites such as Pucara, with its small museum of assorted monoliths, ceramics and sculptures from the ancient Pucará culture, La Raya the highest crossing point at 4,335 m. Visit the ancient temple of Raqchi built by the Inca Emperador Pachacútec with its high walls once a part of a large hall. Nearby are six squares, each of which has several stone buildings that were likely used to house soldiers. The site also has around 200 round stone houses that may have been used to hold supplies of potatoes, corn, and quinoa and finally Andahuaylillas well known for its beautiful baroque church called the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Arriving to Cusco, evening free to relax and enjoy this once capital of the Inca Empire with all its beauty, charm and mysticism. Overnight. (B, L)
Day 09: (Sat): Cusco
This morning you will have time to explore Cusco on your own. Visit the Pre-Columbian Art Museum (MAP) or Casa Concha (Machu Picchu Museum). You can also explore the vendor stalls at San Pedro Market or browse artisan workshops and art galleries in the San Blas neighbourhood.
After lunch we will meet our guide for an afternoon tour of Cusco’s must-see sights. You will start on the Plaza de Armas, where your guide will begin to tell you about the history of South America’s oldest continuously inhabited city. You will enter into the Cusco Cathedral formerly the site of a temple to the Inca creator deity Viracocha and today a treasure trove for religious art produced by native artisans in the years after the Spanish Conquest. Next continue to Santo Domingo Monastery which was also constructed on the site of an Inca temple, Coricancha or the Temple of the Sun. The building of the church atop the ruins ironically preserved parts of the Inca structures which were revealed intact after a devastating earthquake in 1950, that crumbled the Spanish construction. Finally visit the Inca ruins outside of Cusco, beginning at the fortress of Sacsayhuaman (site of an important battle between Inca and Spanish troops), and wrapping up the day with stops at Q’enko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
At the end of the tour you will be returned to your hotel. Enjoy Cusco by night. Overnight. (B)
Day 10: (Sun): Cusco / Sacred Valley
In the morning we will journey to the Sacred Valley, as we drive, we can observe the roofs of the many Andean houses with their small figures of bulls which are thought to bring wealth to each family who has them; they are usually given as wedding gifts. Visit the archaeological complex of Pisac, during the course of our hike around this area, appreciate the magnificent Andean Terraces which were built to expand the agriculture lands. After enjoy the artisan market of Pisac a colourful local event that over the centuries has attracted local traders and remote communities from all over the valley, dressed in their traditional and colourful costumes. Enjoy the opportunity to interact with the local people and appreciate their craftsmanship, handicrafts as well as local fruit and vegetable stalls.
Buffet lunch and after we will make our way to the historical town of Ollantaytambo, with its distinct Inca urban planning, visit the religious, astronomical and military complex and observe how the ancient Peruvians moved boulders of nearly 60 metric tons from one mountain to another and across the river and valley. Finally, we will return to our hotel in the Sacred Valley. Overnight. (B, L)
Day 11: (Mon): Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu
After breakfast, we will be transferred to the local station to board the train (Tourist Class) to Machu Picchu, a great World Heritage Site. This archaeological site was hidden for centuries until it came to light during the early 1900’s by the famous discoverer Hiram Bingham. It is impossible to describe in words how you will feel when faced with the citadel, a huge complex located between the mountains and the jungle and a wonderful challenge to your imagination. Upon arrival to the small village of Aguas Calientes which lies beneath the ruins of Machu Picchu, we will make our way from the station to our hotel. In the afternoon enjoy a wander through the streets or we can hike and follow the trails out of the village. You will notice the abundance of tropical vegetation, change of climate and an altitude lower than the Sacred Valley. Overnight. (B, D)
Day 12: (Tue): Machu Picchu / Cusco
Early morning rise and take the shuttle bus uphill to Machu Picchu (approximately 20 minutes). On arrival depending on the weather, enjoy sun rise and after we will begin our tour of the Citadel where you will appreciate the history of this enigmatic and impressive place. It was built on a very special spot covered in vegetation between two mountains: the Machu Picchu (old mountain) and Huayna Picchu (young mountain), at the foot of which meanders the Urubamba or Vilcanota River (lower Jungle featuring abundant flora and fauna). In the afternoon return to Aguas Calientes and board the train to Cusco. Upon arrival, reception and transfer to your hotel. Overnight. (B)
Please note: The two small mountains on the actual site of the Sanctuary can be climbed, Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu. If you wish to do this after the tour there is an entrance ticket which needs to be purchased, which can be included for an additional cost. Both are great hikes and will give you great views at the summit.
Day 13: (Wed): Cusco
Free day to enjoy to explore this magical and beautiful city of the Incas. Overnight. (B)
Day 14: (Thu): Cusco / Lima
In the morning at a co-ordinated hour transfer to board our flight back to Lima. Connect to your international flight. (B)
Please note if you prefer to overnight in Lima on Day 14, this can be arranged with transfer next day to connect with your international flight.
End.
Program Cost:
Price is given in US$ with the most accurate rate of exchange to sterling at time of publishing. This could vary slightly on booking we will advice accordingly.
Group Size: Small Groups of 10 to 14 Persons max.
Price per person in Double Room (Sterling): £
Price per person in Double Room (USD): US$
Single Supplement (Sterling): £
Single Supplement (USD): US$
National Flights:
Lima / Arequipa
Cusco / Lima
Cost per person (Sterling): £
Cost per person (USD): US$
What does your program include:
All Hotels plus breakfast with some meals as stated in program (L = Lunch, BL = Box Lunch and D = Dinner). Your tour leader Stuart Wicks will be with you for the full 14 days and will be on hand during your free periods to help, advice and accompany those who wish to discover more. Your tours are in private and includes all transfers and entrances.
What is not Included:
Local and International Flights. Personal expenses, any extras purchased and tips. Unless specified drinks are not included with Lunch and Dinner provided in program.
To join fixed departure:
We will require your full name and passport details, along with a 10% deposit non-refundable.
Full Payment 60 Days prior to departure.
Payment method via bank transfer (Bank details are provided on each invoice). We also accept credit card payment processed via PayPal (Please add 2% to cover commission charge from card companies) – VISA, MasterCard, AMEX or PayPal. PayPal might require you to set up an account to process payment.
Cancellation:
Unless otherwise specified your holiday can be cancelled up to 60 days prior to arrival, except for the following:
Local Flight and train bookings. Any refund on these two items will be advised accordingly as these items have specific cancelation terms.
Please note if minimum number are not reached for group departure all monies will be refunded including deposit.
Cancellation Policy:
Deposit non refundable
From 59 until 31 days prior departure maximum 50% cancellation fee
From 30 until 20 days prior departure maximum 80% cancellation fee
From 19 until 0 days prior departure there will be 100% cancellation fee
Travel Insurance.
You must have adequate insurance provision to cover the cost of assistance, including emergency repatriation, in the event of illness or other problems occurring during your holiday.
Travel Peru liability will be limited to the reimbursement of services supplied for failure of services contracted by us. Travel Peru cannot be held liable for any injury, loss, accident, delay or irregularity occasioned by air-carriers or third-party suppliers and by natural phenomena, sickness, war, quarantine, strike, or any other kind of force major or by attendance to Federal Police, customs and Health Authorities regulations.
Important Remarks.
Rates for hotel services are based on bookings made by non-resident foreign visitors.
Hotel categories are all based on Peruvian standards.
In case of very early departures we cannot guarantee a full breakfast, this will depend on the hotel.
At all hotels Check-in Time is usually after midday and Check-out before 11:00h. An Early-Check-in (ECI) or Late-Check-out (LCO) must be requested and can be provided upon surcharge subject to availability.
Programs are expected to be carried out as described, however Travel Peru reserves the right to change or adjust itineraries for the safety of our passengers.
Travel Peru is not responsible for visa and vaccination regulations.
Machu Picchu.
For the train ride to/from Machu Picchu /Aguas Calientes only one 5kg piece of hand luggage is allowed. In Cusco any extra luggage you may have can be stored at your hotel and collected on your return.
For the visit of Machu Picchu, we recommend good shoes, the trail is without handrail and could be slippery. Walking sticks need to have a rubbery end in order to be permitted inside the Sanctuary. Bags/Backpacks bigger than 40x35x20 as well as umbrellas, selfie sticks, comestibles and plastics like bags, straws and Styrofoam are not permitted inside the Sanctuary.
On arrival to Aguas Calientes, group will overnight and the next day we will visit Machu Picchu. Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu is for the second day only and only one entry into the Sanctuary is allowed, you cannot come out and then go back in.
When to Travel.
From March right the way to November is a good period to visit Peru. March, April and May tend to be quieter in terms of visitors, then June through to September is the high season tailing off in October and November.
General Information.
All general information can be found on our web site; travelperu.co.uk. If you have any further questions in terms of what to bring in terms of clothing, the weather, or currency needed, send us an email or we can organise a phone call and talk to you personally.
In terms of health it is important to be aware that during this program we will arrive to fairly high altitude, Cusco for example is at about 3,500 meters. If you enjoy reasonable health you will not suffer, many people live at this altitude, but if you have any doubt you must consult your doctor.
Hotels selected for this program or similar. (Hotels 3-4 *)
Lima : Hotel Jose Antonio :
Located in the popular tourist district of Miraflores, it is in my opinion the best area to stay when in Lima. The hotel is quite close to the ocean and is well located giving good access to this area and all that is on offer. Check the hotel web site below.
Arequipa: Hotel San Agustin Posada del Monasterio
Located in the historical area of Arequipa, with good access to the main square and all its charm. Check the hotel web site below.
Colca Canyon: Hotel Casa Andina
This is a well-located property in the village of Chivay. Check the hotel web site below.
Puno: Hotel Posada del Inca
I personally think it is nice when in Puno to stay by the lake and enjoy that tranquility and peace. To visit the town of Puno is only a short taxi ride. Check the hotel web site below.
Sacred Valley: Hotel San Agustin Monasterio la Recoleta
This is a charming, atmospheric hotel. The Sacred Valley is a nature experience and after a full day tour of the Valley, this is a nice environment to rest and be ready for the next day. Check the hotel web site below.
Machu Picchu: Hotel El Mapi:
This property is located in the centre of the small village of Aguas Calientes. It’s a peaceful and comfortable place to enjoy our evening and overnight, prior to visiting Machu Picchu in the morning. Check the hotel web site below.
Cusco: Hotel Casa Andina Koricancha
Cusco is an experience on its own, a mystical and magical place. Our hotel is well located in the historical part of Cusco, which is important when staying here, so that you can soak up all the atmosphere and charm. Check the hotel web site below.