Best of Peru

Board your overnight flight from the UK to Lima Airport LIM.

Your adventure begins in Lima, where a private transfer will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Miraflores. The rest of the day is yours to relax, recover from your journey, and explore your surroundings at leisure.

ACCOMMODATION: 4*  Aloft Lima Miraflores, Lima or similar

This morning, set off on a private guided tour of Peru’s vibrant capital, Lima.

Begin in the charming district of Pueblo Libre, where you'll visit the renowned Larco Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion built atop a pre-Columbian pyramid, the museum showcases an exceptional collection of ancient gold and silver artefacts, as well as a unique gallery of pre-Columbian erotic art.
Next, explore Casa Aliaga, one of the oldest colonial homes in the Americas, gifted to Jerónimo de Aliaga by conquistador Francisco Pizarro. Still owned by the Aliaga family, the home offers a fascinating window into Lima’s colonial past.
Continue with a scenic drive to Lima’s historic Main Square, where you’ll admire grand colonial architecture, including the striking Lima Cathedral, which dates back to the 16th century.
End the morning with a gentle stroll through the UNESCO-listed historic centre, where colonial balconies, stone-paved streets, and ornate churches tell the story of a city shaped by centuries of culture and conquest.

In the afternoon, take a short flight to Arequipa, known as La Ciudad Blanca (The White City) for its elegant colonial buildings made of white volcanic stone. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel - such as the stylish Palla Boutique Hotel, or another property of a similar standard - where a beautiful rooftop terrace offers the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city’s striking skyline. Take it easy as you adjust to the altitude, and enjoy your first views of the stunning snow capped volcanoes that frame the city - a picturesque welcome to southern Peru.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Palla Boutique Hotel, Arequipa or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast

Start your day with panoramic views of Arequipa from the Mirador de Carmen Alto, overlooking the Chilli River. Then stroll through the peaceful, cobbled streets of Yanahuara, a traditional neighbourhood known for its colonial charm and beautiful baroque church dating to 1750.

With your private guide, head into the city’s historic centre to explore the impressive Plaza de Armas - one of the most beautiful squares in Peru. Admire the intricate façade of the Jesuit Church of La Compañía and see the exterior of the imposing Arequipa Cathedral.

Then, step into the serene world of the Santa Catalina Monastery, a colourful walled complex that has housed Dominican nuns since the 16th century - offering a captivating glimpse into cloistered colonial life

ACCOMMODATION: 4*  Palla Boutique Hotel, Arequipa or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast.

Today, join a small-group experience (maximum 15 guests). You’ll be picked up from your accommodation around 7:30 am to begin the journey to one of the deepest canyons in the world - Colca Canyon.

Travel through the breathtaking Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you may spot wild vicuñas, and continue across the highland wetlands of Tocra, a gathering place for flamingos and other migratory birds.

Stop in the village of Chivay for lunch, then continue to the peaceful village of Yanque, your overnight stop. In the afternoon, you may choose to take a short guided hike to explore the Uyo Uyo ruins and ancient pre-Inca terraces, or simply unwind with a soak in the nearby hot springs (optional, at an additional cost).

Tonight, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel such as the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, with its open-air thermal baths, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon.

ACCOMMODATION: 4*  Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, Yanque or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast.

Rise early and head with your group to the famed Cruz del Condor viewpoint. With luck, you’ll witness majestic Andean condors, their 3-metre wingspans soaring silently over the canyon’s dramatic cliffs.

Return to Chivay for lunch, passing through traditional villages like Maca, and enjoy scenic stops at viewpoints such as Choquetico and Antahuilque.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Known as Peru’s folkloric capital, the route to Puno offers beautiful views of volcanoes and crosses through more of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve.

Check in to your hotel, a carefully selected property such as GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca, where sweeping views of Lake Titicaca set the scene for a relaxing evening.

ACCOMMODATION: 4*  GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca, Puno or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast

You’ll be picked up this morning for a full-day private excursion on the world’s highest navigable lake - Lake Titicaca. 

With your English-speaking guide, visit the remarkable floating islands of Uros, made entirely from totora reeds. Meet local families whose unique way of life dates back to pre-Inca times. Then, continue to Taquile Island, renowned for its cultural heritage and strong Aymara traditions.

Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the community, followed by a visit to the local textile cooperative, where you’ll see ancestral weaving techniques in action. Here, both men and women play a role - men traditionally knit, while women weave. The textiles are rich in cultural meaning, with designs reflecting social status, marital status, and community identity. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase authentic, high-quality pieces directly from the artisans, ensuring your contribution supports the community.

After a culturally enriching day, return to Puno in the late afternoon.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca, Puno or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, lunch

This morning, transfer to the bus station for your 6:50 am departure to Cusco aboard the comfortable Inka Express tourist coach, shared with fellow travellers and accompanied by a guide.

Your first stop is the Pukara Lithic Museum, showcasing monoliths and sculptures from the ancient Pucara Culture. Then cross the La Raya Pass at 4,325 metres - the highest point of your journey - with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the vast altiplano.

Enjoy a buffet lunch in Sicuani, accompanied by live Andean music, before continuing to the Raqchi Archaeological Complex, where you’ll see the impressive Temple of Viracocha. The final stop is Andahuaylillas, home to the beautifully decorated Church of San Pedro, often called the Sistine Chapel of the Americas.

ACCOMMODATION: 4*  Sonesta Hotel Cusco, Cusco or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, lunch 

Today, you’ll explore the Sacred Valley through a meaningful, hands-on cultural experience with a local Andean community.

After your early pickup, drive to a village near Chinchero, where you’ll be warmly welcomed with traditional music and dance. Guided by community members, take part in ancestral farming techniques - planting, harvesting, and learning about staple crops like potatoes and quinoa.

You’ll also feed the animals, meet the locals, and try your hand at milking a cow - a fun and authentic glimpse into rural Andean life.

Next, enjoy a textile demonstration, where skilled artisans show how they spin, dye, and weave wool using age-old methods. A delicious organic lunch follows, freshly prepared from local produce.

In the afternoon, transfer to Ollantaytambo, board the train to Aguas Calientes, and check in to your hotel for the night.

ACCOMMODATION: 4*  El Tierra Viva, Aguas Calientes or similar

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch 

The highlight of your journey - Machu Picchu!

This morning, board the early bus to the citadel to enjoy the atmosphere before the main crowds arrive. Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is a masterpiece of Inca engineering, with its temples, terraces, and breathtaking views. Your English-speaking guide will lead a two-hour tour of the site.

Afterward, enjoy free time to explore independently or take an optional hike (must be booked in advance) to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate for even more spectacular views.

In the afternoon, return to Cusco via train and private transfer.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Sonesta Hotel Cusco, Cusco or similar.

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast

After breakfast, set out on a private guided tour that blends Cusco’s vibrant city life with its ancient Inca heritage. Begin at San Pedro Market, the city’s bustling cultural and culinary hub, where stalls brim with colourful produce, aromatic spices, and traditional crafts.

From here, follow the recently restored Inca Ritual Trail from the sacred Qorikancha Temple to Ñustapakana in the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park. As you walk this historic route, enjoy sweeping city views and gain insight into the spiritual traditions that once shaped Inca life.

Next, explore the monumental Sacsayhuamán fortress, famed for its colossal stone walls and commanding views over Cusco. A short drive then brings you to the Wayllarcocha Community, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Andean lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Afterwards, visit the Manos de la Comunidad Textile Centre, where skilled artisans demonstrate centuriesold weaving techniques and the use of natural dyes. You’ll also meet the friendly alpacas and llamas whose wool plays a vital role in this cultural craft.

Round off your day with panoramic vistas from the Cristo Blanco and San Cristóbal viewpoints before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Sonesta Hotel Cusco, Cusco or similar.

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch.

Your incredible Peruvian journey concludes today. Enjoy a relaxed morning in Cusco before your afternoon flight to Lima.

Tonight, you’ll stay at a comfortable hotel inside Lima Airport, just steps from international departures - perfect for a smooth and stress-free onward journey.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport, Lima or similar.

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast.

Make your way to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.

MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast.

Your overnight flight arrives back in the UK for you to make your journey home.

UK passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Peru for a stay up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
When you arrive in Lima, authorities will register your entry digitally through a Tarjeta Andina de Migración (TAM) - a virtual immigration control document.
Passports must be valid for 6 months from arrival. Please refer to the FCDO website for more information.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Peru. However, we recommend consulting your GP or a travel health clinic before you travel to ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date and to receive
any personalised health advice.

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation, especially considering the modest wages many workers receive. A small gesture can go a long way, so setting aside a little extra for porters, guides, and drivers is always appreciated. Leaving some spare change at restaurants is also a kind way to recognise good service.

The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). We recommend exchanging some currency before leaving the UK for convenience. However, cash machines are readily available in all major cities, allowing you to withdraw money in the local currency if needed.

UK travellers are usually exempt from Peru’s 18% hotel tax (VAT)—just remember to show your passport and TAM (immigration card) when you check in. Some destinations, however, may charge a small local city tax that can’t be paid in advance. For example, in Arequipa, there’s a local tax of PEN 77 (around USD $20), payable directly to the hotel on arrival.

For your overnight stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), we recommend packing a small day bag with your essentials—such as a change of clothes, toiletries, any medication, and personal items. Your main luggage will remain securely stored at your hotel in Cusco and will be ready for you when you return. This is simply due to limited luggage space on the train and ease of travel.

Peru has strict customs rules - on arrival, you're allowed to bring in one laptop and two mobile phones tax-free. When departing, avoid buying or carrying items made from wild animal parts (e.g. condor feathers, turtle shells, or preserved insects), as these are illegal to export and may lead to prosecution. Likewise, removing archaeological artefacts without authorisation is against the law. Many of these items are sold in tourist markets, but it’s safest to choose souvenirs made from sustainable materials.

Yes, especially in Cusco, Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca. Symptoms vary, but staying hydrated, eating light meals, and taking it slow for the first day or two can help. Some travellers bring motion sickness tablets or conasult their GP for altitude medication before departure.

Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water, including for brushing teeth

The checked luggage allowance for the internal flights is 23kg. Final flight times will be confirmed at the point travel documents are issued.