PERU ADVENTURE TOUR
Customizable Peru Itinerary
Contact us and start planning your Peru Tour now!
Explore the rich culture and vast natural beauty
Journey with us on this Peru Adventure Tour to a land shrouded in mystery and the birthplace of the New World’s most advanced society, the Incan Empire.
The jewel of South America, Peru will send your camera into overdrive with its jaw-dropping terrain, colourful markets, white-washed cities, forgotten temples entangled in jungle vines, and massive archaeological complexes.
The ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world…come find out why! Home to a unique and proud population that continues to maintain its rich culture and identity, you will be welcomed with open arms.
Channel your inner Indiana Jones and spirit of adventure as we discover the land of the Inca during this 12 day Peru Adventure Tour!
We are happy to customize this Peru cultural tour to better suit your travel needs. Just contact us to start planning your vacation to Peru now.
TAILOR-MADE PERU TOUR
STARTS AT
USD per Person
THIS IS A CUSTOMIZABLE ITINERARY FOR GROUPS OF ALL SIZES.
DATES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
Day 1: Arrival Day Lima
Welcome to Lima – the City of Kings and the bustling gateway to Peru! Lima is an ethnic melting pot, featuring pre-Hispanic, colonial and modern elements.
Lima was inhabited by pre-Columbian groups centuries before it was founded by Spanish Conqueror Francisco Pizarro in 1535 on the day of the Three Kings (Epiphany).
Limeños (Lima’s residents) are friendly, and the city is filled with excellent restaurants; seafood lovers, in particular, should be sure to try a ceviche, for which Lima is well known.
- As today is an arrival day, there are no prearranged activities.
- Meals: None
- Overnight: Miraflores Hotel
Day 2: Lima: Colonial Splendour
Today we will have a half-day guided sightseeing tour of the highlights of colonial Lima and the incredible Larco Herrera Museum. We will begin our tour with a visit to the heart of colonial Lima, the colourful Plaza de Armas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the plaza, we can admire the Government Palace and the Cathedral.
After time for photos of the beautiful colonial architecture, we will continue on to the Larco Museum which is located in a vice-royal mansion of the 18th century built over a 7th-century pre-Columbian pyramid in Pueblo Libre. The Larco Museum features the finest gold and silver collection from Ancient Peru, the famous erotic archaeological collection, worldwide icons of Pre-Columbian art, after being exhibited in the world’s leading museums.
Some suggestions for afternoon activities include:
- Huaca Pucllana – a restored adobe ceremonial centre from the Lima culture that dates back to AD 400
- LarcoMar & Sea Wall – Stroll for miles along the cliffs of the beautifully landscaped sea wall
- Paraglide – Soar above the cliffs of Miraflores while you tandem paraglide
- Enjoy some of Lima’s exceptional eateries, from humble to high-brow, all part of a gastronomic revolution moreMeals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3: Lima to Cusco and the Sacred Valley
Early morning we fly from Lima to Cusco – the heart of the Incan Empire. Cusco is a colonial as well as an archaeological gem and at an elevation of 3400m, Cusco will literally take your breath away. It is for this reason that after arriving in Cusco we continue to a more comfortable elevation of 2800m of the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Urubamba Valley). Chinchero, known as the birthplace of the rainbow, is famous for its traditionally dressed villagers, Incan terraces, and colourful Sunday indigenous market. We have time to explore and perhaps see women weaving their intricate textile designs in a cooperative.
On our way to the Sacred Valley, we will visit the archaeological complex of Moray which is an unusual Incan site consisting of several enormous terraced circular depressions, the largest of which is about 30 m deep. The purpose of these depressions is uncertain, but their depth and orientation with respect to wind and sun create a temperature difference of as much as 15 °C between the top and bottom. It is possible that Moray was an Inca agricultural experiment station where they studied climatic conditions on a wide variety of crops.
Weather permitting, we will also visit the spectacular site of Maras salt pans where the locals have been mining salt since pre-Incan times! We continue to our charming accommodation in the Sacred Valley.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Overnight: Yucay Hacienda-style Hotel
Day 4: Ollantaytambo & Pachamanca Lunch
Today we further explore the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas. We continue along the Urubamba river to the “Living City of the Incas” and archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo. Ollantaytambo is an impressive fortress that enjoys the rare honour of being the setting for one of the only defeats inflicted on the Spanish conquistadors by the Incas when Hernando Pizarro was forced to flee back to Cusco after failing to breach the citadel in 1536. From the village below, one gains a true appreciation of Inca urban planning dating back 500 years.
Today we will enjoy a Pachamanca lunch! A Pachamanca is a traditional way of preparing food in the Andes. In the absence of a stove, an oven is built out of stones, the stones are heated with a wood fire and once brought to a very high temperature, the stones are placed carefully with the vegetables meat and seasoning. The food is then covered with grass and banana leaves before being covered by a mound of earth. After 45 minutes the meal is ready and we have the pleasure of digging our delicious potatoes, yams, corn, fava beans, lamb, alpaca and guinea pig straight from the earth.
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
- Overnight: Yucay Hacienda-style Hotel
Day 5: Machu Picchu
Today we travel by Train (Expedition) to Machu Picchu Village (Aguas Calientes) located at the base of magnificent Machu Picchu. From here we take a bus up the snaking road to the ‘Lost City of the Incas’. The archaeological site of Machu Picchu dates to the 15th century and first received international attention in 1911 when it was visited by the American historian Hiram Bingham.
Ever since Machu Picchu has received visitors from around the world being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and more recently voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. We have a two-hour guided tour of the most important structures at Machu Picchu before having free time for independent exploration of the site when the crowds have dispersed.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight: Aguas Calientes
Day 6: Machu Picchu to Cusco
This morning is free for you to explore as you wish. You may wish to return to Machu Picchu to further explore the Incan gem and perhaps climb Wayna Picchu, soak in the natural hot springs, shop, or visit the Machu Picchu Museum and botanical gardens. In the afternoon we travel by train then by bus to Cusco, the heart of the Incan Empire. Tonight we dine, Cusco-style!
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Overnight: Cusco
Day 7: Cusco and Surroundings
Cusco was the foremost city of the Inca Empire and is now the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas, as well as the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the most visited tourist attraction in Peru. Cusco (Qosqo in Quechua) was the capital of the mighty Inca Empire from the 13th century until 1532 when the Spanish conquistadors arrived. The Inca had incredible foresight in regards to city planning and Cusco beautifully exemplifies this. Cusco was planned as an effigy in the shape of a puma, the Inca god of lightning.
This morning we explore some of Cusco’s colonial highlights with a guided tour of the magnificent Cathedral with its beautiful cedar wood carvings such as the choir and the Pulpit, as well as the paintings of Cuzco School. We continue our tour to Koricancha Temple (Temple of the Sun) in Santo Domingo Church where Spanish and Inca stonework exists in the same complex. In the afternoon, the guide takes us to Sacsayhuaman Fortress, massive stone construction with great cosmic energy. Experts believe it was an astronomic observatory and an Incan oracle.
Here are a few suggestions for your free time:
- Explore the artistic neighbourhood of San Blas and shop for antiques
- Visit the gorgeous Pre-Colombian Museum, Museo Irq’i Yachay and/or the Popular Art Museum
- Learn how to make Peru’s signature cocktail – the Pisco Sour
- Cusco Planetarium is a nifty way to learn more about the Inca worldview
- Take a weaving or salsa class
- Pamper yourself at a spa
Tonight is free for you to enjoy the vibrant Cusco nightlife!
- Meals: Breakfast
- Overnight: Cusco Hotel
Day 8: Andean Explorer Train to Puno
Early this morning we board the Andean Explorer train from Cusco to Puno crossing the altiplano of Peru reaching a breathtaking altitude of 4321m (14 175 ft) at La Raya. This train ride has consistently been voted as one of the best journeys by train in the world. The ten-hour train journey snakes between mountains, highlands, and clouds, ending at the majestic Lake Titicaca.
Travelling across the sunburned altiplano by rail gives one a true appreciation of the vastness of the landscape as well as how isolated the communities of subsistence farmers and shepherds are that dwell here. Herds of llamas and alpacas as well as the more elusive vicuna are often seen along the way. We arrive in the early evening at the city of Puno which is at the heart of Peruvian folkloric tradition located at a breath-taking 3830m (12 562 ft).
- Overnight: Puno Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Lake Titicaca – Uros & Taquile Islands
Today we have a full-day excursion of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, 3810m (12 500ft) and one of the largest lakes in South America. It often seems more like an ocean than a lake as its intensely blue waters, as deep as 270m (886 ft), stretch endlessly in all directions. It is no coincidence that the Inca decided first to conquer this lake, nor that they formed a creation myth around it. The Inca contend that the sun sent his son, Manco Cápac, and the moon sent her daughter, Mamo Ocllo, to emerge from the waters of Lake Titicaca and found the Inca empire. Our boat excursion begins with a visit to the nearby Uros (floating) Islands. The totora reeds that grow in shallows of the lake are used for making everything from the islands themselves to the schools to the trinkets they sell visitors and the boats. The Uros people began their floating existence centuries ago in an effort to isolate themselves from their rivals, the Collas and the Incas.
We continue our Lake Titicaca adventure to the tranquil island of Taquile. Taquileños run their society based on community collectivism and on the Inca moral codeama sua, ama llulla, ama qhilla, (Quechua for “do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy”). The people of Taquile Island’s unique culture, style of dress and lifestyle make for a memorable visit. The men of the community do all the incredible knitting, as this is strictly a male domain, while the women do the spinning.
We return to Puno late this afternoon.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Overnight: Puno Hotel
Day 10: Puno to Arequipa
Early this morning we begin our day with a visit to Sillustani, situated on a stark wind-swept peninsula on tiny Lake Umaya. The burial towers of the nobles of the Colla civilization are up to 12 metres high and are not known exactly when they were built. Known as chullpas, it is thought those whole families were buried in the towers.
Travelling across the altiplano with spectacular views of the Andes, we keep our eyes peeled for vicuñas (wild camelid) and pink flamingos around Lake Langunillas. Dubbed the ‘White City’ for its pearly white volcanic rock, Arequipa boasts over 80 volcanoes and possesses fine colonial-era Spanish architecture. The most famous of which is El Misti Volcano standing at 5822m.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 11: Arequipa
Constructed entirely of white sillar stone, the city gleams in the sun and is home to the most stunning Plaza de Armas in all of Peru. Today we have a guided sightseeing tour of the highlights of beautiful Arequipa and the 400-year-old Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a citadel that could have been lifted right out of southern Spain. This afternoon you will have free time to enjoy the cafes and plaza or visit Juanita, the mummy of a 13-year-old girl that captured worldwide attention in 1995, located in Museo Santuarios Andinos.
Tonight we dine together for our final supper.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 12: Arequipa to Lima
Today we catch our internal flights from Arequipa back to Lima where we will connect to our international flights.
- Meals: Breakfast
*Please note that most flights depart from Lima late in the evening. Please confirm your flight departs in the evening when booking this trip.
Tour Exclusions
IMPORTANT NOTES
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
Please take the time to read and understand the conditions of booking set out in our Booking Terms & Conditions prior to booking a trip with Finisterra Travel LTD. We strongly recommend that you also read the Country Information relating to your trip prior to booking, and ensure that you understand the itinerary and the active style of the trip you are undertaking.
AIR TRAVEL: Flights are not included in the tour price. DO NOT purchase any airline tickets until the trip is confirmed to take place. Pre and post-tours can be arranged through available at an additional charge.
PASSPORTS: Must be valid for at least 6 months upon return date to your home country. Proper documentation is the responsibility of each traveller.
VISAS: (responsibility of the traveller)
PROGRAM COSTS: Program costs are based on a minimum number of participants and are subject to change without notice. Single supplement will apply to single travelers (unless a participant opts in for room share and a roommate is found. This cannot be guaranteed).
Travel Insurance
Cancellation, Travel, Flight, and Health insurance are required and are the responsibility of the participant to research and secure the appropriate coverage. Click HERE for a Travel Insurance Quote or please email nicola@finisterra.ca for a quote.
Check with your local travel agent /insurance provider/health plan for advice about travelling overseas.
Waiver Form
All participants will be required to sign a Waiver Form prior to departure.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Even though we wish you a flawless trip, things can happen, especially nowadays. Make sure you are prepared with a Travel Insurance policy that is right for you. Finisterra recommends Manulife Insurance or John Hancock Please feel free to ask us about Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance, Cancel for Any Reason Policies, Travel Medical Insurance, or any other questions you may have.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CANADIANS
Travel with confidence knowing that you’re covered with Manulife Insurance.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AMERICANS – JOHN HANCOCK
Explore the world, stress-free, when you book travel insurance with John Hancock International.
WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
At Finisterra Travel we help you discover, push personal boundaries, and explore the unknown.
We are super passionate about sustainable, transformational, and adventure travel. Definitely not “armchair travellers”, we have firsthand experience of where you’ll be heading.No one wants to feel like a tourist which is why when we plan a custom travel experience for you, we strive to make your adventure as authentic as possible. We offer an array of Small Group Adventures & Custom Trips, and have something for every type of traveller.
Our unique itineraries are designed to best showcase some of our favourite destinations around Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, North America, and Europe. All itineraries are fully-customizable.Not your typical online travel agency, nor are we quite a tour operator, we are international travel designers with a flair for unique experiences. We’d love to hear from you!
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