Your Adventure Awaits
Signature Peru
A journey through Peru holds the memory of civilizations carved in stone and gold, often defined by the dramatic ascent from the desert’s coastal whispers to the jagged, ethereal heights of the Andes, where Machu Picchu emerges from the clouds like a waking dream. Beyond the ruins, the soul of the country thrives in the rhythmic pulse of local markets, the kaleidoscope of hand-dyed wools, and the profound, communal reverence for Pachamama. Whether you are navigating the serpentine veins of the Amazon or tasting the bold, avant-garde alchemy of Limeño cuisine, the essence of Peru is a constant, soulful invitation to witness how ancient starlight still illuminates the modern world.
History & Culture
Distant Frontiers
Rail Journeys
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When To Go?
Highlights
Accommodations
From restored colonial monasteries and casa houses to contemporary and avant-garde concepts, Peru has never had a lack of inspiring abodes - with plenty of back stories and often, set in dramatic landscapes and one thing you can be sure of. Aesthetics!
Experiences
An almost complete journey of how a redefined "quintessential" exploration of Peru should be. Spectacular colonial cities, an emphasis on gastronomy, the legacies of the Incas and some of the most inspiring landscapes of the country beyond Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrive Lima
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Arrive into Lima New Jorge Chávez International Airport today and a comfortable drive takes us to the Atemporal Casa en Lima. Tucked away in a 1940s mansion with green grounds and Tudor-style facades, enjoy an intimate stay as you rejuvenate from jetlag.
Remarks:
Enjoy an intimate "home-away-from-home" experience at Atemporal Casa en Lima. There are no restaurant in the "hotel" but an in-house concierge and cook who will lovingly prepare ala-carte breakfast, lunch or dinner on request.
DAY 2: Lima
Fresh from the prior night’s rest, we begin a city tour of Lima, one Peru's capital and a rich amalgam of contrasts and contradictions as well as a gastronomic center of the Americas. Begin from the historic Plaza de Armas, where its colonial beginnings can be traced back to the 16th Century. Witness the Lima Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, Casa del Oidor; and the Palacio del Gobierno, official residence of the president that was built on the spot where Jose San Martin declared the independence of Peru in 1821. Marvel at the Convento de San Francisco, famous for their catacombs containing the bones of about 10,000 people interred here when this was Lima’s first cemetery. Nearby, we take a walk on the pedestrian-only Jiron de la Union, a mix of old and new buildings lined with restaurants and shops with ornate architecture and an opportunity to experience Lima’s gastronomic scene.
Thereafter, we take a walk in the bohemian Barranco district, filled with colorful streets, charming plazas and architectural gems that speak to the neighborhood’s rich history. Enjoy time to unwind, browsing the shops and galleries at leisure and be sure to experience Barranco district's celebrated coffee scene.
This evening, we will be treated to a world-class gastronomic experience at Central - considered to be Latin America's finest and one of the best restaurants in the world. Led by acclaimed husband and wife Chefs Virgilio Martínez and Pía León, savor to a menu that guides you through a myriad of different Peruvian ecosystems, categorised by altitude – from below sea level in the Pacific Ocean to the high peaks of the Andes.
DAY 3: Lima / Cusco
This morning, we endeavor to a visit at the fabulous Huaca Pucllana, a remarkable pre-Hispanic adobe and clay pyramid that was once a ceremonial center, built by the Lima culture dating back to 400 A.D.
In the afternoon, we transfer to Lima New Jorge Chávez Airport for a comfortable domestic flight to Cusco. On arrival, we will be escorted to the exquisite Inkaterra La Casona, reconverted from a 16th Century colonial manor, one of the first Spanish buildings in the city. Carefully restored to retain its historical heritage and décor. With its suites set around a Spanish courtyard, replete with antiques and original architectural details, Inkaterra La Casona offers sober elegance without sacrificing authenticity. Enjoy a slow acclimatization to the altitude and dinner in its restaurant.
DAY 4: Cusco
At 3,399m above sea level, Cusco is one of the highest cities in the world. Taking things ever so slowly, we will begin to uncover one of the most beautiful cities in the Americas. Visit the monumental and mysterious Sacsayhuaman Fortress built by Emperor Pachacútec in the 15th Century that is opened for debate how the colossal stone blocks weighing up to 125 tons were transported, cut and assembled flawlessly without tools.
Thereafter, we will explore the heart of Cusco's historical center dominated by the Plaza de Armas main square surrounded by stunning colonial buildings such as the Cusco Cathedral. Later, we visit the unique Coricancha "Inca Temple of the Sun" where after the conquistadors' arrival, built the Church of Santo Domingo onto the foundations of the former Incan temple.
From here, we continue to the charming San Blas neighborhood, adorned with beautiful narrow streets, vibey white-washed buildings where you have time to wander and feel the energy of the beautiful district. As the day winds down, we stop at the 16th Century San Cristobal Church where you will salivate at the most incredible panoramic views of Cusco.
DAY 5: Cusco / Sacred Valley
A day of new impetus as we depart Cusco for the Sacred Valley of the Incas lined with agricultural lands, nostalgic towns and thought-provoking Incan archaeological sites against the backdrop of the Andes. On an hour's drive, we will first arrive into the UNESCO World Heritage salt mining town of Maras, dating back to pre-Incan times where we witness the intricate matrix of hexagonal ponds fed by nearby saltwater spring, which evaporates over time and eventually harvested for salt. The sheer size and magnitude of the salt mines are extraordinary where we find more than 6,000 salt ponds, each measuring one square meter and 30cm deep.
Nearby, we will stop to visit the archaeological Incan ruins of Moray, – home to three amphitheater-shaped terraces carved deep into the ground and were used by the Incans as agricultural laboratories more than 500 years ago. A stone's throw away allows us to indulge in the second chapter of culinary visionaries Virgilio Martinez and Pia Leon at MIL, a food laboratory and institute at 3,600m above sea level that unites gastronomy, territory and knowledge in a constant dialogue with the environment, the people who inhabit it and its history.
Finally, we end the day in the town of Urubamba arriving at the Belmond Rio Sagrado, nestled by the Urubamba River and the perfect oasis to appreciate the time-honored landscapes.
DAY 6: Sacred Valley
We have another day in the Sacred Valley and the day begins with a visit to the nearby Inca town of Ollantaytambo - one of the main gateways to Machu Picchu and the only remaining Inca town still inhabited. First, we will enjoy a visit to the Ollantaytambo Ruins, a spectacular fortress and temple as well as featuring 17 steep agricultural terraces. We will explore the complex in depth to learn about the significant battle that took place here pitting the Incans to a rare victory against the Spanish. Directly across, we will visit the Pinkuylluna ruins, situated on a sheer cliff accessed from Ollantaytambo town - believed to be granary storage facilities for the Incans.
Descending back into the heart of town, we will replenish our energy a unique Pachamanca lunch which translates to "earth oven", a traditional lunch prepared on hot rocks. You will have the chance to participate in the cooking process featuring potatoes, local vegetables and meat.
After lunch, enjoy time to wander through the town, dotted by charming cobblestone streets. Make a visit to the bustling Mercado Artisanal market when villagers from around the region congregate to sell or barter fruits, vegetables, grains and clothes. Thereafter, return back to Belmond Rio Sagrado for time to unwind and rejuvenate.
DAY 7: Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu
With bated breath, this morning right on the doorstep of Belmond Rio Sagrado, we embark onto the Belmond Hiram Bingham train, the legendary luxury train to Machu Picchu, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with breathtaking, open-air views. Take a seat and feast upon exquisite Peruvian cuisine, then venture to the vintage cocktail bar for a punchy Pisco sour and more selection of drinks and cocktails. On the estimated 3 hour journey, enjoy in comfort as you are entertained with live musical performance onboard or be mesmerized with the enchanting views of the Andean landscape in the observatory carriage with open-air balcony.
Arriving at Aguas Calientes Station in Machu Picchu in the afternoon, we will disembark and be escorted onto a bus transfer to the one-of-a-kind Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located next to Machu Picchu where you have the privilege to be the first to enter the ancient Inca citadel at dawn. Enjoy the rest of the day to rejuvenate, taking moments to pause and the realization, you are in a very special place.
DAY 8: Machu Picchu / Cusco
Finally, the moment we have been waiting for has arrived. Early this morning, you will finally enter the gates to uncover one of
the most spectacular sites in the world – Machu Picchu “Lost City of the Incas”. On an immersive guided tour to one of the world’s most incredible archaeological wonders, we discover the ancient citadel that was lost for centuries amongst the towering Andean peaks before the site was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer, Hiram Bingham.
Returning to Belmond Sanctuary Lodge for breakfast and take time to relax. In the late afternoon, you will return to Aguas Calientes Station as we reembark onto the Belmond Hiram Bingham train bound for Cusco. With lots of memories and reflections of the extraordinary ancient citadel, sit in comfort, enjoy the passing countryside and dinner onboard before we arrive into Cusco in the evening after 2100hrs. After disembarking, we will once again return to the Inkaterra La Casona where you will spend the next 2 nights.
DAY 9: Cusco
By now, you should be completely acclimatized to the altitude. Enjoy an entire day to wander around charming Cusco where every corner is postcard-worthy. Worth visiting at your own leisure is the bustling San Pedro Market, designed by the Paris Eiffel Tower's creator, Gustave Eiffel in 1925. The oldest market in Cusco, witness a variety of fresh food products from around the region. Next to Inkaterra La Casona is the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion, the museum invites guests to discover three thousand years of artistic expression in ancient Peru.
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DAY 10: Cusco - Embarkation Andean Explorer / Puno
After breakfast, we walk over to the Belmond Hotel Monasterio for a briefing and thereafter, a transfer to Cusco Wanchaq Station where we embark onto the Belmond Andean Explorer. Take some time to be orientated and acclimatize to the indulgent atmosphere of the train as we begin our journey towards Puno.
We will alight after lunch to visit the Raqch'i Archaeological site. With its high walls, it is one of Peru's most impressive surviving Inca structures.
This evening after an exceptional dinner on board, head to the bar car and enjoy a cocktail with your fellow travel mates. We soon arrival into Puno where we dock for the evening onboard.
Remarks:
The Belmond Andean Explorer departs every Thursday
DAY 11: Excursion to Lake Titicaca / Saracocha
After breakfast, we alight from the train for an excursion to explore Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Our agenda today will be to visit the floating islands of Uros - home to the Uros indigenous people, believed to be one of the first ethnic groups to populate the Andean region. The Uros live on man-made floating islands constructed out of reeds from the local totora plant. We will also visit the stunning Taquile Island where we will have lunch and learn about the once-isolated island from the rest of the world and the Taquilenos' immense dedication to the art of weavings.
By the late afternoon, we return back to the Belmond Andean Explorer where we continue our train journey to Saracocha.
DAY 12: Arrive Arequipa
Our train journey continues and soon after breakfast, we will alight for a stop at the fascinating Sumbay Caves boasting cave paintings dating back to at least 6,000 years ago. Bid farewell to some of your travel mates as they will depart the train to continue their journey to the Colca Canyon.
After lunch onboard and more inspiring countryside scenery, we will arrive into the White City of Arequipa dominated by 2 volcanoes, El Misti at 5,820m and Chachani at 6,070m. After disembarking, we transfer to CIRQA. Located in the historic centre of Arequipa, in a UNESCO protected site, this former monastery dates back to the year 1540 when the city was founded. Reviving the soul of a forgone Parador & inspired by the dedicated way monks would receive travellers, CIRQA pays homage to its heritage by carrying on warm Arequipenean traditions. In appreciation for its history, today the Parador combines its original sillar stone architecture with contemporary nuances to welcome guests. You have the rest of the day to unwind and settle into your stunning surroundings.
DAY 13: Arequipa
A day of spectacular proportions as we begin to marvel at the sheer beauty of Arequipa, the whitewashed city of Peru where buildings are hewn from a volcanic stone called "sillar". First, we begin our tour at San Camilo, the city's main square where locals gather and shops for fresh produce. Thereafter, continue to the awe-inspiring 16th Century La Compania Church, famous for its Baroque architecture and colorful Cupola of Saint Ignacio. Next, continue on to view other architectural marvels in the city, like El Tambo La Cabezona, a historic residence dating to the 17th century. We will also make a stop at the Yanahuara Arches from where you will capture the emblematic images of the city.
Finally, we will wander through the mazey alleys of the enchanting Santa Catalina Convent, dubbed a "city within a city" adorned with signature red volcanic stone walls. Behind the painted courtyards, narrow streets and cloisters, it is still home to a small community of Dominican nuns today. Later, you have time at leisure to continue strolling through the impeccably picturesque city.
DAY 14: Arequipa / Lima
Enjoy a leisurely morning and thereafter, we will drive out of the city to the Añashuayco Quarry to admire the enormous 98-foot cliffs and extensive sculpture collection sculpted from the sillar white volcanic stone. One of the most picturesque sculptures inside the quarry is a Peruvian homage to Petra's Treasury in Jordan. Witness skilled stonemasons chipping away and chiseling their next masterpiece as you marvel in awe.
Not far away, we will transfer to Arequipa's Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport for our domestic flight return to Lima where you may connect onto your international flight home or continue your onwards journey in Peru and beyond.
Featured Hotels
Belmond Rio Sagrado
Set along the Urubamba River in Peru’s Sacred Valley, Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado brings the feel of a traditional Andean village. The rooms, suites and villas feature local designs, offering incredible river and mountain views. The restaurant focuses on fresh Peruvian dishes, many ingredients grown right on-site. Guests can visit the spa among the gardens or spend time exploring the valley and its surroundings – there’s even a chance to meet some friendly alpacas.
Privileges
Complimentary Breakfast
Priority Room Upgrade at check in*
$100 hotel credit on rooms and junior suites
$220 hotel credit on suites
Early check in/late check out subject to availability*
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge
Nestled in the shadows of the Lost City, this stylish retreat is the only hotel located at the entrance to Machu Picchu. Savour sunrise breakfasts overlooking the archaeological site, then be one of the first to visit the Inca Citadel on a guided tour. The views are truly sensational. When it's time to unwind, swing by Tampu Bar for a refreshing Pisco Sour, explore the picture-perfect gardens, look to the future with a coca leaf reading, or treat yourself to an Inca massage at the spa.