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Highlights of Peru
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Highlights of Peru
Operated by: Trafalgar
8 Days from $2,346 per person
Locations Visited
Lima, CUSCO, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, Cuzco ...more Lima, CUSCO, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, CuzcoBOOK & TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
BOOK & TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
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Make a new booking with us and enjoy total peace of mind and flexibility.
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Day 1
Arrive Lima (2 Nights)
Welcome to the Capital of the New World - the launch pad to our effortlessly delivered encounter with the iconic and unexpected highlights of Peru. On arrival in Lima, you'll be transferred to your hotel in the exclusive barrio of San Isidro where you'll enjoy a Welcome Reception this evening to meet your Travel Director and travel companions.
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Day 2
Lima Sightseeing
Connect with the colonial heritage of Francisco Pizzaro's "City of Kings", admiring the colonial splendour of Lima's UNESCO-listed Historic Centre. Stand in the birthplace of this ancient, yet modern city, surrounded by the Baroque façades of Cathedral of Lima and Palace of the Union. See the Church of San Francisco and discover its hidden catacombs. Celebrate Lima's status as the culinary capital of South America and 'Connect with Locals' when you meet Ignacio Barrios, who has worked alongside many of Peru's most award-winning chefs. We visit a local market where Ignacio will explain how Peruvian fruits, vegetables, seafood and meats are the basis of Peruvian cooking. Then, continue to Chef Ignacio's cooking school where we'll enjoy a demonstration on how to prepare some of Peru's most popular dishes and have an opportunity to sample some at a 'Be My Guest' lunch before spending the rest of the day at leisure.
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Day 3
Lima – Cusco – Sacred Valley
Board a morning flight to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. 'Visit the Pisac market displaying Quechua arts and crafts, then continue to a former 18th century colonial-style monastery in the Sacred Valley, our hotel for the night. 'Dive into Culture' and meet Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, a master Quechua weaver, and the first person from her village to attend university. She has been an ambassador for Andean traditions since she began learning ancient pre-Columbian weaving techniques as a young girl in the 1960s. 'Make a Difference' as your visit helps to preserve and promote traditional pre-Columbian weaving techniques in the 21st century.
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Day 4
Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu
The mystical empire of the Incas takes centre stage today. We visit the famous Sacred Valley stronghold of Ollantaytambo, before boarding the Vistadome train (light snack included) for our epic journey to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Delve into the mysteries of this once-great civilisation, admiring the 15th century stone ruins of temples, palaces and terraces perched high amidst the clouds. Join your 'Local Specialist' for an exploration of the iconic great Temple of the Sun, the House of the Priest, the Sacred Plaza and the Intihuatana, an intricately carved rock most likely used as a sundial centuries ago. We return to our hotel where we dine tonight.
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Day 5
Machu Picchu – Cusco (2 Nights)
The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu beckon again and we have an opportunity to re-connect with this ancient wonder. If you're feeling adventurous, hike up to the Gate of the Sun for stunning views over the fortress. We board a train to the Sacred Valley, then head to the colonial city of Cusco, stopping en route at a local chicheria. 'Dive into Culture' and enjoy the sweet flavours of chicha as you learn how this Peruvian corn beer is brewed by the local women.
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Day 6
Cusco Sightseeing
Embark on a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of Cusco this morning, admiring the 16th century Spanish colonial buildings that stand on the foundations of former Inca temples and palaces. See the baroque Cathedral on the Plaza de Armas and 17th century Church of Santo Domingo. Visit the ruins of the Sacsayhuaman fortress and see nearby warehouses where the Incas once stored their grain. The afternoon is free to explore on your terms. This evening, gather for a Regional Dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying Cusquenian dishes and ancestral dance performances.
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Day 7
Cusco – Lima
A leisurely start to our day sees us return to Lima this afternoon. Meet a Local Specialist at the Larco Museum, which houses the largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in the world. This evening we join our travel companions for a Farewell Dinner in the museum's garden restaurant.
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Day 8
Depart Lima
Our discovery of an ancient civilisation has come to an end. We transfer to the airport for your onward flight or perhaps extend your stay at the Novotel Lima.
Price Includes
Dining Highlights
- 7 breakfasts
- 2 lunches
- 5 dinners
First class travel Highlights
- Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- A Trafalgar Bonus - All Intra-Air Flights: Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Lima, including porter service at all airports.
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- Handcrafted Highlights
- Optional Experiences and free time
- All porterage and local charges included
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of your guided holiday
- VIP entry to many sights
Sightseeing Highlights
- CITY TOUR in Lima, Cusco
- SCENIC DRIVE through the Sacred Valley, in Peru's Andean highlands
- ICONIC TRAIN journey aboard the Vistadome train
- VISIT the outdoor market at Pisac, the ruins at Ollantaytambo, two visits to the 15th century fortress of Machu Picchu, historic Sacsayhuaman, the Larco Museum in Lima
- CONNECT WITH LOCALS Visit a local market with Chef Ignacio and enjoy a special lunch at his cooking school. (Day 2)
- DIVE INTO CULTURE Meet a master Quechua weaver and ambassador for Andean traditions. Visit a local chicheria for some traditional chicha tasting. Visit a local chicheria for some traditional chicha tasting. (Days 3, 5)
- LOCAL SPECIALIST For included sightseeing in Lima, Machu Picchu, Cusco and at the Larco Museum. (Days 2, 4, 6, 7)
- MAKE A DIFFERENCE Support the quest to preserve and promote Andean weaving traditions and techniques. (Day 3)
Dates & Prices
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Online Booking Process
Financing from $/month
Extensions
GALAPAGOS CRUISE EAST
Please note: This extension cannot be booked online. For more information and to book, please call GET.
Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Darwin's Galapagos. Walk among giant tortoises and swim with turtles, sea lions and manta rays—discovering another world in ways you could never imagine.
This locally hosted post-itinerary cruise is only available in conjunction with Highlights of Peru, Land of the Incas, or South America Revealed.
Day 1: Lima - Quito (2 Nights)
Enjoy a warm welcome in Quito where you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel.
Hotel: Hilton Colon Quito
Day 2: Quito Sightseeing and Free Time
Visit the Equator and the historical center of Quito, the first place in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 3: Arrive Baltra Island - Board Expedition Vessel (3 Nights)
On arrival at Baltra Airport, transfer to the M/V Galapagos Legend. Sail to Bartolomé Island, hiking to its summit for soul-stirring views, then snorkel in the midst of Galapagos penguins.
M/V Galapagos Legend
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: South Plaza Islet - North Seymour Island
Our first destination today is South Plaza Island, home to the famed Galapagos sea lions. Next is North Seymour Island, where resident sea lions and marine iguanas sun themselves.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: San Cristobal Island
Journey to Pitt Point this morning, ascending to a high point on the steep volcanic tuff hill. See Cerro Brujo's coral sand beach, where we connect with the resident sea lions or snorkel in the shadow of Witch's Hill.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Depart San Cristobal Island
Enjoy a first-hand encounter with the giant tortoises of La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado, a tortoise reserve. Transfer to San Cristobal Airport for your flight to Quito.
Airport arrival time in Quito will be at 7 pm. Please be aware when booking your flights.
Meals: Breakfast
Pricing
Please call GET for the most up-to-date pricing.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this trip.
Price Includes: Galapagos National Park Fee, Galapagos Transit Control Card, and all taxes and gratuities to shipboard personnel and cruise guides.
GALAPAGOS CRUISE NORTH CENTRAL
Please note: This extension cannot be booked online. For more information and to book, please call GET.
Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Darwin's Galapagos. Walk among giant tortoises and swim with turtles, sea lions and manta rays—discovering another world in ways you could never imagine.
This locally hosted post-itinerary cruise is only available in conjunction with Highlights of Peru, Land of the Incas, or South America Revealed.
Day 1: Lima - Quito (2 Nights)
Enjoy a warm welcome in Quito where you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel.
Hotel: Hilton Colon Quito
Day 2: Quito Sightseeing and Free Time
Visit the historical center of Quito, the first place in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stand on the Equator.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 3: Arrive Baltra Island - Board Expedition Vessel (3 Nights)
On arrival at Baltra Island Airport, transfer to the M/V Galapagos Legend, which will ferry you to the Highlands Tortoise Reserve on Santa Cruz Island where you'll see the world's largest tortoises.
M/V Galapagos Legend
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: El Barranco - Prince Philip's Steps
Visit Genovese Island today, climbing up the rocky Prince Philip Steps in search of wildlife, walk to the expansive lava field, then continue to Darwin Bay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Santa Cruz Island - Santa Fe Island
The marine iguanas of Santa Cruz view our arrival with indifference as we walk from the small lava dock. See the shallow lake where flamingos come to feed, then continue inland in search of land iguanas. Arriving on Santa Fe Island later, enjoy a snorkel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Depart Santa Cruz Island
Our final stop is Bachas Beach, a great place to swim, walk along the shore or visit the lagoon. Transfer to Baltra Airport for our return flight to Quito.
Airport arrival time in Quito will be at 4 pm. Please be aware when booking your flights.
Meal: Breakfast
Pricing
Please call GET for the most up-to-date pricing.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this trip.
Price Includes: Galapagos National Park Fee, Galapagos Transit Control Card, and all taxes and gratuities to shipboard personnel and cruise guides.
EASTER ISLAND
Please note: This extension cannot be booked online. For more information and to book, please call GET.
Surrender to the magnetic allure of the imposing Moai statues that stand watch over Easter Island and are a testament to the mysterious Rapa Nui people, who called this remote, tempestuous Pacific island home.
This locally hosted post-itinerary extension is available in conjunction with Highlights of Peru, In the Footsteps of the Incas, Land of the Incas, South America Revealed, and Wonders of Patagonia.
Day 1: Arrive Easter Island (2 Nights)
Connect with the legend and lore of one of the world's most remote and remarkable islands, delving into the ancient culture of the Rapa Nui who once prospered on this land. Our first stop on this mystical adventure is Ahu Akivi, where we'll enjoy a private guided excursion to view its seven Moai statues, facing the ocean. Learn about their astronomically precise location and how they were placed there to use their mana to protect the inhabitants of the nearby village. Continue to ancient Ahu Hanga Poukura to see the tumbled Moai statues that stand as a testament to ancient battles. Then, visit the Puna Pau quarry with its red scoria stone.
Hotel: Taha Tai
Day 2: Easter Island Sightseeing
Embark on a privately guided excursion to the southern coast and witness the perfectly preserved ceremonial Ahu Vaihu in the bay of Hanga Te'e. Set out with your boxed picnic lunch and proceed to Rano Raraku, a quarry of almost 900 stone statues—397 of them still located at the slopes of the Rano Kau volcano. Visit Ahu Tongariki, the largest ahu on the island, then continue to the eastern coast and visit Ahu Te Pito Kura with its Paro Maoi, the largest maoi statue ever erected. Afterward, visit scenic Anakena beach, where the king first set foot on the island.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Easter Island Sightseeing - Depart Easter Island
Journey to the UNESCO-listed Rapa Nui National Park, joining a private excursion up the extinct Rano Kau volcano. Admire magnificent views of the island from its slopes, then drive to the ceremonial village of Orongo, where you'll see spectacular petroglyphs revealing the local culture. Later, we'll catch a glimpse of the three islets of Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kao Kao on the opposite coast. Then it's on to Ahu Vinapu for further evidence of the pre-Incan architectural influence in present-day Easter Island. Our final stop is at the Ana Kai Tangata to view the ornate cave paintings from its mouth. Return to your hotel before being transferred to the airport this afternoon.
Note: Airport arrival is at 12 noon. Please be aware when booking your flights.
Meals: Breakfast
Pricing
Please call GET for the most up-to-date pricing.
Please Note: Due to flight schedule, an additional complimentary overnight in Santiago for this post extension is required and is included in your trip. The hotel in Santiago will be the Holiday Inn Santiago Airport.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this extension.
PERUVIAN AMAZON
Please note: This extension cannot be booked online. For more information and to book, please call GET.
Delve into the expanses of the Amazon, gliding through rainforests in search of mythical tribes and meet a myriad of enchanting creatures. This trip shares a glimpse into million-year-old jungle worlds of biodiversity.
This locally hosted pre-itinerary extension is only available in conjunction with Highlights of Peru, In the Footsteps of the Incas, Land of the Incas, and Icons of South America.
Day 1: Arrive Lima
On arrival in Lima, you'll be escorted to your airport hotel and enjoy the day exploring the sights of this colonial capital on your terms.
Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport
Day 2: Lima - Puerto Maldonado - Corto Maltes Amazonia (3 Nights)
This morning, we fly to Puerto Maldonado (internal flight included) and embark on a journey on the Madre de Rios River to our jungle lodge. Join an expert guide for insights into the forest, then keep a keen eye out for shy caiman during a pre-dinner boat expedition.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Corto Maltes Amazonia
Day 3: Amazon Exploration
A short boat ride takes us into the Tambopata Candamo National Reserve where we'll hike through the thick jungle. Arrive at Sandoval Lake, where you may spot a wide variety of birds, monkeys, giant river otters, black caimans, and the elusive anaconda.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Amazon Exploration
Immerse yourself in local culture with members of the Machiguenga tribe and visit a local farm.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Corto Maltes Amazonia - Puerto Maldonado - Lima
This morning, embark on an excursion to a popular feeding area for multi-colored parrots. After breakfast, your Amazon experience comes to an end as we head back to Puerto Maldonado for our flight to Lima (internal flight included) where we'll join our guided vacation on Day 1.
Meals: Breakfast
Pricing
Please call GET for the most up-to-date pricing.
Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this extension.
Optional Add-Ons
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Lima
La Dama Juana Restaurant And Folklore Show
La Dama Juana Restaurant combines typical Peruvian food with traditional folkloric dancing. The food is served buffet-style in clay pots. As you dine, watch the energetic dancers perform colonial and Inca ceremonial dances. The costumes are colorful and the music is lively. Gratuity included. Total duration is approximately 3 hours.
Adult Price: $65
Magic Circuit Of The Water
The Magic Circuit of the Water is the world's largest fountain complex of beautiful interactive fountains featuring swaying water, colored lights and lasers dancing with the music. The Magic Fountain forces water to a height of more than 250 feet. This optional experience is available Wednesday to Sunday. Total duration is approximately 2.5 hours.
Adult Price: $27
Cusco
Moray And Moras
Visit Moray, the Inca agricultural greenhouse or laboratory that consists of four platforms that seem to disappear into a crater. At a depth of 500 feet, the overlapping concentric circular stone rings widen as they rise. It was an experimental location the Incas used to study the adaptation of plants with agriculture. Next is the village of Maras, renowned for its ancient salt mines and wells. The salt has been used for economic purposes since the time of the Inca. You will meet the villagers who explain ancient salt mining techniques and have a chance to participate. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. Gratuity included. (Minimum 5 Guests)
Adult Price: $86
Visit and Workshop at Choco Museum
Visit the Choco Museum where you will learn the Peruvian chocolate making process from the cacao bean to the chocolate bar. You will participate in making the chocolate and experience the true feeling of a chocolate maker. Space is limited. Total duration approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Gratuity included. (Minimum 4 Guests)
Adult Price: $45
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