Peru Highlights Vacation: In the Footsteps of the Incas | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Peru Highlights Vacation: In the Footsteps of the Incas

PRIVATE TOUR - 9 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 4781

Private Tour Highlights

  • Touring Lima’s UNESCO heritage-listed historical downtown.
  • Experiencing the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu with an overnight stay near the ‘Lost City of the Incas’.
  • Sampling regional delicacies and shopping for handicrafts at Cusco’s colorful San Pedro Market.
  • Enjoy a scenic ride to the island of Taquile, known for its pre-Inca and Inca ruins, and high-quality textiles, arguably the best in Peru.
  • Sailing along Lake Titicaca on an unforgettable boat trip, stopping at the floating islands of Uros.
  • Explore the Museo Larco followed by a complimentary cocktail and appetizers at the onsite Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

This popular Yampu Peru highlights vacation, takes you to the world of the Incas from the ancient structures of Cusco to Machu Picchu and magical Lake Titicaca.  According to legend the first Inca, known as Manco Capac, arose from the waters of Lake Titicaca under the orders of the Sun God, to start the Inca Empire in and around Cusco. At this mysterious lake, we will visit the floating islands of the Uros Indian tribes who remain today living in the same way their ancestors lived in Inca times, the Island of Taquile, and the amazing ruins of Sillustani, a pre-Incan burial ground.

In Lima, the capital of Peru, you will enjoy a city tour highlighting its colonial and modern buildings, as well as Lima’s history and cultural heritage. Later, you will also have the opportunity to visit the newly renovated Larco Herrera Museum, known for its invaluable collection of Peruvian history.

Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

Inclusions
Prices include round-trip airfare from Lima to Cusco; domestic flight from Cusco to Puno, domestic flight from Puno to Lima; hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast;train ride from Cusco to Machu Picchu; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; guided tours in English including all entrance fees; and meals where specified. The deluxe option in Lake Titicaca includes two nights all inclusive at Titilaka including round-trip transfers from the airport to Titilaka, your choice of excursions in and around Titicaca Lake with bilingual (Spanish and English) guide; and all meals.

Note:
*Cost includes Vistadome train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Vistadome is ideal for travelers who want a personalized immersion of Andean culture with traditional dances and music along the way. This train features panoramic windows, leather seats, new table design as well as heating and air conditioning.

*Deluxe service Hiram Bingham train features an observation wagon with a bar and two dining cars. In addition, this train includes a gourmet brunch on board, exclusive bus return to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu as well as a guided tour. Afternoon tea in the Sanctuary Lodge, pre-dinner cocktails and a 4-course, a la carte dinner is also included. The train does not operate on Sundays. Upgrades available from Vistadome to Hiram Bingham Deluxe; please ask your Yampu Tour Consultant for the cost of the upgrade.

*Andean Explorer Train from Cusco to Puno (Monday, Wednesday and Saturday only): This fantastic train ride takes a gentle climb to higher and cooler altitudes. The first half of the journey is dominated by the magnificent Andean mountains which tower over the deep valleys of the meandering Huatanay River. It then reaches the gentler, rolling Andean Plains, where vicuña and alpaca can be seen. The glass-walled observation car provides the perfect opportunity to view the beautiful scenery. The journey is broken by a scenic stop at La Raya, which is also the highest point on the route. Three-course lunch included. Restaurant and bar service is available at an additional cost. Train leaves Cusco at 8 am and arrives in Puno at 6:00 pm.
Exclusions

Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 4781

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Flight to Lima

Upon arrival, you will be met by a Yampu guide who will assist you with the check in at the airport hotel.

Upon arrival, you will be met by a Yampu guide who will assist you with the check in at the airport hotel.

Day
2

Flight to Cusco- Acclimation

At the appropriate time, you will walk back to the airport to check in for your flight to Cusco.

Upon arrival to Cusco, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Cusco is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins of the old Inca city became the foundation for the Spanish architecture you see today, and many of the stone walls that line the streets were built by the Incas.

This afternoon is at your leisure to acclimate. Cusco's elevation is approximately 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), so we highly recommend resting as soon as you arrive for a few hours and taking in some coca tea.

If you are feeling up to it later, Cusco is a great walking city with sidewalk cafes, street art and local shops to explore! We highly recommend the chocolate factory and shop.
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Cusco_Peru
Day
3

City Tour of Cusco

This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco where you will visit the Korikancha Temple, or Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During your tour today you have the option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market. The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University. San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where you will receive a briefing about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is a great opportunity to interact with the locals either selling or purchasing items from the market.

This afternoon there will be time for lunch (lunch not included) before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsayhuaman Fortress. Later in the afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsayhuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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Cusco_Market_Fruit_Peru
Day
4

Cusco- Machu Picchu

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the train station.

The train will take you through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, you will board a bus to Machu Picchu and then have a private guided tour of the ruins. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, at the entrance of the ruins, before returning to your hotel at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the town of Aguas Calientes.
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Hiram_Bingham_Train_Peru
Day
5

Morning at Leisure at Machu Picchu Vistadome Train to Ollantaytambo

Enjoy today at your leisure. You may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, we will board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be met at the train station and transfer to your Cusco hotel.

Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. If you decide to return to Machu Picchu, new regulations require you to be accompanied by a guide at all times. Please contact your Yampu travel consultant if you think you would like to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).

Upon arrival to the train station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
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Machu_Picchu_Peru
Day
6

Cusco- Puno

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight from Cusco to Juliaca

Upon arrival, you will be greeted for airport reception and take a private transfer to your hotel in Puno. En route to the hotel, visit the necropolis of Sillustani (12,000 feet above sea level), the lagoon of Umayo and the fabulous "chullpas", cylinder-shaped tombs.

The elevation in Puno is approximately 3830 meters (12600 feet ), so we highly recommend resting as soon as you arrive for a few hours, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine or heavy meals. Please consult with your physician for additional details.
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Day
7

Semi-Private Full Day Group Tour of Taquile and Uros

This morning, transfer to the port to take a boat ride over beautiful Lake Titicaca. The first visit this morning will be to the famous floating islands of Uros, home of the Uros Tribe a civilization dating before the Incas. The islands are composed entirely of reed, including the houses and boats. Explore these fascinating islands and interact with the friendly locals and enjoy opportunity to purchase their handicrafts, ride in their boats, and see into their daily lives.

Leaving Uros, the scenic ride will continue to the island of Taquile. This island is known for its pre-Inca and Inca ruins, as well as its Inca terraces. The people of Taquile are popular for their high-quality textiles, arguably the best in Peru. The knitting on the island of Taquile is reserved exclusively for the males, while the women make the yarn and weave. Return to Puno and transfer to the hotel. Lunch (included) is served on the lake.

Note: One can also enjoy this tour on private basis, visiting Uros Island first and then Taquile Island, allowing a visit to the islands when they are less crowded. The private tour has an additional cost of $75 per person, based on two people traveling and $175 per person based on one person traveling.
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Yampu_boat_Peru
Day
8

Puno- Lima

This morning, be met at the hotel in Puno and transferred to the airport for a flight to Lima. Upon arrival to Lima, you will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel.

This afternoon, enjoy a private city tour of Lima, one of the most important cities in South America since its founding in 1535. As you journey through the historic center of the city, admire the beauty of San Martin and its major squares, the Cathedral, and the Government Palace. Visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. This tour also includes a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Please note that the Cathedral is open Monday through Saturday.

During your tour you will also visit the Museo Larco. Founded in 1926, the Museo Larco chronologically showcases the past 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture, including its pre-Colombian history. The museum is located in a beautiful 18th century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th century pre-Colombian tomb. After exploring the Museo Larco, enjoy complimentary cocktails and appetizers at the onsite Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens. ...read less

Museo_Larco_Lima_Peru
Day
9

Flight Home

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flight.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flight.

Cusco, Peru

Machupicchu, Cusco, Peru

Puno, Peru

Lima, Peru

Places You'll See

  • Peru_Cusco_city

    Cusco

    Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).

  • Machu Picchu

    Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

  • Lake-Titicaca-Peru

    Puno (Lake Titicaca)

    Situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca, is the picturesque city of Puno. Visit the llama farm where the locals get the fleece to make their signature textiles. Climb to the top of the hillside city for beautiful views of the lake, or head out on the water for a boat ride to see the famous floating islands.

  • Peru_Lima_city

    Lima

    Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.

Hotel Options

4 Star Properties

Cusco : El Mercado

Cusco : Palacio Manco Capac 

Machu Picchu : El MaPi

Machu Picchu : Casa del Sol

Puno (Lake Titicaca) : Sonesta Posada del Inka, Puno

Puno (Lake Titicaca) : Casa Andina Premium, Puno

Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima

Lima : Innside by Meliá Lima Miraflores

5 Star Properties

Cusco : Inkaterra La Casona

Cusco : Palacio del Inka by Libertador, Cusco

Machu Picchu : Sumaq Hotel

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Puno : GHL Lago Titicaca

Lima : Hilton Lima Miraflores

Lima : Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima

Luxury Properties

Cusco : Belmond Palacio Nazarenas

Cusco : Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (Mountain View With Terrace)

Puno : Titilaka (All Inclusive)

Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza (Ocean View)

Lima : JW Marriott, Lima

Testimonials

Buddy P.

Traveled September, 2014

All and all it was wonderful and would recommend you

The trip was great and all of the Yampu people met us on time and were there for every aspect of the trip. No flight delays at all and the airport transfers were really easy. Peru was wonderful and we have a few hundred pictures. Weather was great and it only rained for about an hour the entire time. Of course that one hour was when we were hiking on the Inca trail but then it turned sunny. We loved our guide in Cusco and on the Inca trail. He was great and would suggest you reserve him as often as you can. According to him, we have the record of doing the 6-7 hour Inca trail one day hike in 4 hours and 10 minutes. In hindsight he said we could have probably done the entire 3 day hike in one day. So in the future if you have anyone wanting to really push it and get up really early, they can probably hike more of the trail. It was really fun. Our guide in Puna was nice and full of history as the one in Cusco. Our guide in Lima was knowledgeable about the history of Peru. The river cruise (Aria) was nice and there were only 16 people on board so everyone became friends. The general feedback of the group was that there was a bit too much down time. The group was fairly active and on the younger side so wanted more activities. We saw quite a few animals but it being the dry season and hit or miss with animals, we knew it would be a crap shoot. The guides on the ship were excellent and the food was very good (not amazing but above average). But we averaged 4-5 hours a day on the skiffs so I would let people know that there is a lot of time spent sitting and looking and looking. I am glad we did it and the visit to the jungle village was quite interesting. Who knew you could have 4 kids by the age of 17? All in all we loved Peru and it was a very different trip for us. The altitude did affect Pam way more than me especially at the Lake. All and all it was wonderful and would recommend you. Thanks for putting this together for us.

Traveled To

Dennis, Laurel, Mike and Linda

Traveled May, 2015

Peru was fascinating, and the people very friendly

We enjoyed this trip very much, Peru was fascinating, and the people very friendly. The itinerary was well-paced, full of interesting places and historical sites. Obviously we were on the go a great deal, yet there was also time to ourselves to explore and try out some restaurants. From the big city of Lima, to colonial Cusco, the beautiful Sacred Valley, spectacular Machu Picchu, to Lake Titicaca, we certainly covered a lot of ground. Some of the highlights: The hors d’oeuvres at Museo Larco, seaside Miraflores, the central square in Cusco, the Sunday market in Chinchero, the Moray salt fields, visiting the Andean family in Misminay, beautiful Sol y Luna hotel, the funky town of Aguas Calientes, of course Machu Picchu, and for Laurel and me, the floating islands of the Uros and Taquille Island on Lake Titicaca. Overall, we were very pleased with how Yampu handled this trip. Representatives were always waiting for us when we arrived somewhere. All our tour guides were very knowledgeable and personable, making our tours very enjoyable. We were happy with our hotels, and of course Sol y Luna was just exceptional and Palacio Manco Capac was a beautiful boutique hotel with nice views of Cusco.

Traveled To

Ralph

Traveled February, 2015

Going with my son was pretty special because we enjoyed so much together and wanted to see all we could.

A father son trip to Peru. On Cusco: It was fascinating to see the spinning, coloring and weaving process which is a lot more than a person realizes. I bought a baby Alpaca sweater which means it was made from the first shearing which is the softest Alpaca wool and it was extremely reasonable and definitely the real deal. On Machu Picchu: we were shocked of how big this place was It’s truly a mystical place and we had beautiful weather in this rainy season. On the hike to Montana WaynaPicchu: We started climbing at 7:00. The fog was so thick we didn’t know if it would clear. We wandered through several of the lower dwellings overlooking the river and the valley. . . we could imagine what it would have been like to wake up looking out those windows. It’s no wonder this is one of the new 7 wonders of the world.We felt special knowing that only 200 people a day get to see this view and we had perfect weather. We had to crawl through a tunnel and up a wood ladder and then we were on the very top of the mountain scattered with big boulders. It’s a sight we will never forget. After enjoying the view of a lifetime we headed down and it was quite a feat to come down the steep stairways without tripping. That climb will always be one of the highlights for us to remember. Going with my son was pretty special because we enjoyed so much together and wanted to see all we could. I believe we will be going back to Peru in the future.

Traveled To

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