Touch down in Lima, a fascinating fusion of ancient heritage and modern vibrancy. This vast Pacific-facing capital is perched atop dramatic cliffs and offers a compelling introduction to Peru. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, giving you time to unwind after your international journey.

Depending on your arrival time, take a gentle stroll through the coastal district of Miraflores, where landscaped parks overlook the ocean and locals gather for sunsets along the Malecón. Alternatively, simply relax and settle in — tomorrow, your Peruvian adventure truly begins.

After breakfast, enjoy a full day to explore the rich layers of Lima’s history and culture. The UNESCO-listed Historic Centre invites you to wander cobbled streets lined with colonial architecture, grand cathedrals, and atmospheric plazas. You may wish to visit the ornate San Francisco Monastery, famed for its catacombs and Spanish baroque design.

In the afternoon, venture into the vibrant neighbourhoods of Barranco and Miraflores. These artistic enclaves brim with street art, boutiques, ocean views, and eclectic eateries. Lima is considered one of the world’s culinary capitals — why not treat yourself to a tasting menu at a celebrated local restaurant or sample freshly prepared ceviche from a coastal café?

If you prefer a more structured experience, you may join an optional guided city tour or cooking class (available at additional cost). However you choose to spend your time, Lima offers a spectacular gateway into Peru’s soul.

This morning, bid farewell to bustling Lima and embark on a scenic five-hour drive south to the sun-drenched desert city of Ica. As your comfortable coach winds its way along the Pan-American Highway, watch the landscape gradually transform — from coastal suburbs to vast, arid plains framed by golden sand dunes and the occasional vineyard.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Step into Ica’s charming historic centre and wander past colonial buildings like the elegant Plaza de Armas and the restored Sanctuary of the Lord of Luren. The Regional Museum of Ica is worth a visit for its captivating collection of pre-Columbian artefacts and mummies from the Paracas and Nazca civilisations.

Later in the afternoon, we recommend making the short journey to Huacachina — a breathtaking desert oasis straight out of a dream. This serene lagoon, fringed by palm trees and surrounded by towering dunes, is a photographer’s paradise. For those seeking adventure, optional activities such as sandboarding or dune buggy rides can be arranged (available at additional cost). Alternatively, sip a pisco cocktail as the sun dips below the desert horizon.

Leave Ica behind this morning as you journey deeper into Peru’s southern desert, heading towards the enigmatic city of Nazca. The scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive unfolds through barren yet beautiful landscapes, with endless stretches of golden sand, rugged mountain outcrops, and sun-bleached plains. As you near your destination, keep your eyes peeled — you may glimpse the Nazca Lines from roadside viewpoints, vast geoglyphs carved into the desert in the shape of monkeys, hummingbirds, and spiders, visible only from the skies.

Upon arrival, delve into the mystique of the Nazca culture, which thrived here for nearly a millennium from 100 BC. You’ll have the day to explore some of the area’s most compelling archaeological sites. Visit the impressive remains of Los Paredones, a ceremonial and administrative centre built by the Incas, and marvel at the ingenuity of the Cantalloc Aqueduct, a network of spiral wells that still channel water through the desert to this day.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by the Antonini Archaeological Museum, where open-air exhibits and original artefacts shed light on the lives, rituals, and craftsmanship of the Nazca people. For those looking for a bucket-list moment, we highly recommend an optional scenic flight over the Nazca Lines (available at additional cost) for a once-in-a-lifetime aerial view of these mysterious desert drawings.

Spend your final day in Nazca enjoying the peaceful desert surroundings at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, explore the local markets, or uncover more of the region’s ancient secrets, the day is yours to enjoy. We recommend visiting the hauntingly beautiful Chauchilla Cemetery, where mummified remains lie remarkably preserved in open tombs, or heading to the atmospheric Cahuachi Pyramids, a sprawling ceremonial centre that offers insight into the spiritual life of the ancient Nazca people.

In the evening, your adventure continues as you board a luxury overnight bus to Arequipa. Recline in a first-class full-bed seat designed for comfort, and settle in for the scenic journey south. As you depart Nazca, the desert gives way to coastal plains and highland silhouettes, providing one final chance to witness Peru’s dramatic landscapes bathed in golden twilight.

Sleep soundly on board as the road winds towards the Andes, preparing you for the rich colonial charm and volcanic beauty that awaits in Arequipa.

Good morning and welcome to Arequipa, Peru’s dazzling white-stone city nestled in the shadows of three majestic volcanoes: El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. Known for its elegant colonial-era architecture and warm sunshine, this southern gem offers a rich blend of history, culture, and spectacular scenery. Upon arrival from your overnight journey, check in to your hotel and take the day to relax and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy a quiet coffee on a flower-filled plaza, or explore the charming side streets lined with sillar stone buildings glowing under the Andean sun.

On your second day, set off on a self-guided tour of Arequipa's treasures using a specially prepared brochure that includes a detailed walking map and local insights. Begin at the bustling San Camilo Market, where colourful stalls brim with exotic fruits, Peruvian spices, and artisanal treats. From there, stroll into the heart of the UNESCO-listed historic centre, where you’ll encounter the dazzling Plaza de Armas flanked by palm trees, fountains, and the awe-inspiring Basilica Cathedral.

As you meander along cobbled alleys and sunlit courtyards, be sure to visit the spectacular Santa Catalina Monastery—a miniature city within the city. This 16th-century cloistered convent spans 20,000 square metres and features vivid red walls, colonial frescoes, and peaceful cloisters. A visit here is like stepping back in time, offering one of the most atmospheric experiences in Arequipa.

Whether you choose to uncover the city’s spiritual side, admire the volcanic panoramas, or simply unwind with local delicacies in a shaded café, Arequipa’s charm will linger long after you leave.

This morning, leave Arequipa behind and embark on a breathtaking six-and-a-half-hour drive to Puno, nestled on the serene shores of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. As you ascend through the Andes, marvel at the changing landscapes—from deep valleys and alpine meadows to windswept plains dotted with llamas and traditional stone houses. Arrive in Puno, often dubbed Peru’s ‘folkloric capital’, where high-altitude charm meets deep-rooted Andean culture.

Spend your afternoon at leisure, settling into your hotel or exploring the city's inviting streets. Stroll through the historic centre, where colonial churches, like the striking Puno Cathedral, stand proudly on Plaza Mayor. Wander through Pino Park and soak in the atmosphere, perhaps stopping for a hot muña tea to help with the altitude. Get an early night—tomorrow, a truly unforgettable experience on the lake awaits.

After breakfast, set off on the extraordinary Lake Titicaca cultural tour—an immersive day exploring the lake’s indigenous communities and ancient traditions. Begin your journey with a fast-boat ride across the shimmering waters to Taquile Island, where you’ll walk a scenic pre-Incan path to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the lake’s endless expanse. Learn about UNESCO-recognised textile techniques in a local weaving house, where Taquileños proudly maintain their centuries-old customs.

Continue to the lakeside village of Llachón, where you’ll help prepare a traditional Pachamanca meal—cooked underground using hot stones, herbs, and local ingredients. After a delicious communal lunch, glide across the water once more to visit the authentic Uros Titino floating islands. Crafted entirely from layers of totora reeds, these remarkable islands are home to the last families still living in this ancestral way. Learn how the islands are built, maintained, and navigated, before returning to Puno as the sun sets behind the snow-dusted peaks of the Andes.

Today, embark on an unforgettable Cusco cultural journey, travelling from the high plains of Puno to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. This full-day overland adventure winds through the majestic Andes, offering dramatic scenery and a chance to uncover the historical treasures scattered along the route. Sit back and watch as golden pampas, craggy peaks, and picturesque villages unfold before your eyes.

Your first stop is the pre-Hispanic town of Pukara, once a thriving ceremonial centre. Here, you’ll explore the fascinating Lytic Museum, home to ancient monoliths and intricate artefacts that shed light on Peru’s early civilisations. Continue climbing to La Raya Pass, perched at a breathtaking 4,335 metres above sea level—pause here to take in sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks and rugged plateaus.

Next, visit Raqchi, a striking Incan archaeological complex where towering stone and adobe walls hint at the grandeur of the Temple of Wiracocha. Wander among ancient granaries, ceremonial spaces, and colonnaded structures that whisper stories of a long-lost empire. Finally, discover the artistic splendour of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, a stunning 17th-century church known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of the Americas’ for its lavish murals, intricate woodwork, and golden altars.

Arrive in Cusco by early evening and settle into your hotel, ready to explore the cultural capital of the Andes in the days ahead. The energy of the Incan heartland awaits.

Today, embark on a thrilling Sacred Valley tour from Cusco, beginning with a scenic drive through the Andean highlands. Your first stop is Awanacancha, a vibrant cultural centre where you’ll meet llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, and observe the ancient techniques used to dye and weave colourful Andean textiles. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Peru’s rich artisan heritage.

Continue to the bustling hill town of Pisac, where the lively artisan market offers everything from handwoven fabrics to traditional ceramics and silver jewellery. Then ascend to the Pisac archaeological site, dramatically perched above the valley. Wander through terraced hillsides, burial grounds carved into the cliff, and the rustic remnants of the Qantusraqay district, believed to be the ancient farmers' quarters. The sweeping views over the valley below make this one of the Sacred Valley’s most photogenic spots.

In the afternoon, you’ll journey onward through verdant valleys and soaring peaks to your hotel, nestled amidst tranquil scenery—an ideal base for your continued explorations tomorrow.

Your Sacred Valley tour from Cusco continues today with a visit to Ollantaytambo, the best-preserved example of Inca town planning. With its cobblestone alleys, water canals, and towering terraces, this ancient town remains alive with history. Climb the stepped terraces of the fortress and take in the panoramic views of the valley below, then marvel at the precision-cut stones of the Temple of the Sun, built with boulders brought from across the Urubamba River—an astonishing feat of engineering that still baffles modern experts.

After this deeply enriching visit, you’ll have time to relax or explore the nearby village before settling in for the night in the Sacred Valley, surrounded by peaceful landscapes and Andean charm. This evening, prepare for your upcoming journey to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

Please note: You’ll need to bring a small backpack for your two-night Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu segment. Due to train luggage restrictions (maximum 8kg/17lb, 62 inches/157cm), your main suitcase will be securely stored in Cusco until your return.

Today marks the highlight of your Machu Picchu and Cusco tour. Begin with an early transfer to Ollantaytambo railway station, where you'll board the expedition train bound for the lush cloud forests surrounding Aguas Calientes. Sit back and take in breathtaking views as the train winds through the Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River into the misty mountains.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, receive a quick briefing before boarding a bus that zigzags its way up to the legendary Machu Picchu, perched dramatically at 2,430 metres above sea level. This awe-inspiring 15th-century citadel was hidden from the outside world until its rediscovery in 1911 and is now hailed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

On a guided tour equipped with headphones for crystal-clear narration, walk through the citadel’s highlights, including the sacred Inti Watana sundial and the striking Temple of the Three Windows. Listen to a specially crafted historical recreation of Machu Picchu’s past, accompanied by traditional Andean music for a fully immersive experience.

After your exploration, descend to Aguas Calientes for a relaxed break before boarding the train back to Cusco, where you’ll arrive in the evening. Transfer to your hotel and unwind after a truly unforgettable day.

Wake up in the heart of the Andes with a full day at leisure in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Wander through this highland gem’s enchanting cobbled streets, where colonial churches sit atop ancient Inca walls and lively plazas buzz with local culture. Soak up the vibrant energy of Plaza de Armas, visit the bustling San Pedro Market for handmade souvenirs, or sample the city’s modern gastronomy scene at one of its many stylish cafés and restaurants.

Alternatively, relax at your hotel or choose an optional excursion to explore further afield—perhaps to the awe-inspiring Inca site of Sacsayhuamán, with its massive stonework and panoramic hilltop location, or to the colourful bohemian neighbourhood of San Blas, renowned for its artisan studios, narrow alleys, and stunning views across the terracotta rooftops of Cusco.

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the enchanting Andean highlands. You’ll be transferred from your hotel to Cusco Airport to catch your onward flight, with unforgettable memories of your Machu Picchu and Cusco tour still fresh in your heart and camera roll.

Your Tambopata jungle tour begins as you board a short domestic flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, the vibrant frontier town and gateway to Peru’s Amazon Basin. After a warm welcome and a brief stop in town, you’ll head to the riverbank and board a motorised canoe, gliding along the Madre de Dios River deep into the rainforest. Arrive at your jungle lodge — a rustic yet comfortable eco-haven nestled in lush surroundings — where you’ll check in and enjoy a delicious Amazonian lunch crafted from local, organic ingredients.

Later this afternoon, stretch your legs on a guided nature walk through the lodge’s private trail network, where expert guides will introduce you to the delicate ecosystems of the primary and secondary rainforest. As the golden light fades, return to the canoe for a spellbinding twilight river cruise — keep your eyes peeled for caimans, nightjars, capybaras, and the forest’s magical transformation after dark.

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast before setting off on an epic hike into Tambopata National Reserve, one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Your destination: Lake Sandoval, a tranquil oxbow lake embraced by towering palms and teeming with wildlife. Glide silently through the glassy waters by dugout canoe, watching for giant river otters, red howler monkeys, and the bizarre, prehistoric-looking hoatzins.

Return to the lodge for a well-earned lunch before launching into an unforgettable afternoon at the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway. Climb to the treetops via 30-metre-high towers and traverse seven hanging bridges suspended above the jungle canopy. From this rare vantage point, keep an eye out for toucans, squirrel monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws soaring across the horizon.

As night descends, join your guide for a thrilling nocturnal jungle walk, where torchlight reveals a secret world of elusive creatures — from frogs and insects to night monkeys and tarantulas — that only emerge after sunset.

Your final day in the jungle dives into the age-old relationship between humans and nature. Begin with a fascinating visit to a traditional Amazonian farm, where you’ll see time-honoured cultivation techniques in action and sample fresh tropical fruits straight from the source. Continue to a lush botanical garden, where your guide will unveil the secrets of the rainforest’s natural pharmacy — an astonishing variety of plants used for centuries by indigenous communities for their healing and medicinal properties.

After a relaxed lunch back at the lodge, journey to a nearby cocha — a still oxbow lake brimming with life. Here, try your hand at catch-and-release fishing using local techniques, or simply bask in the tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by bird calls and jungle reflections. On your return, stop at the ghostly remains of the legendary Fitzcarraldo steamship, its rusting hull now entwined by vines — a poignant relic immortalised in Werner Herzog’s film of the same name.

As the sun begins to fade, take a final walk to a nearby clay lick (collpa), a mineral-rich site where parrots and parakeets gather in dazzling numbers. Their vibrant plumage and cacophony of calls provide a magical finale to your Tambopata rainforest adventure — a journey that has opened the door to one of Earth’s most extraordinary ecosystems.

This morning, bid farewell to the enchanting Amazon rainforest as your boat gently glides back along the Madre de Dios River to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival, collect your stored luggage and transfer to the airport for your flight back to Lima, where your unforgettable Peru adventure first began.

Once in Lima, a Lumle Holidays representative will meet you for your transfer to a comfortable hotel in the capital. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore more of the city’s highlights — take in the colourful murals and bohemian spirit of Barranco, wander through the UNESCO-listed historic centre, or simply enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean from Miraflores’ scenic cliffside promenade.

As evening falls, consider capping off your journey with a farewell dinner at one of Lima’s acclaimed restaurants, where Peruvian gastronomy takes centre stage. Sip a final Pisco Sour as you reflect on the wonders you’ve encountered — from Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines to the jungles of Tambopata and the shores of Lake Titicaca.

The following morning, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight home. Return with a heart full of unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of awe at the cultural and natural richness of Peru.