Private Tour Highlights
- Discovering Cusco, where colonial architecture collides with Incan structures.
- Sampling regional delicacies and shopping for handicrafts at the colorful San Pedro Market.
- Experiencing the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu with an overnight stay near the ‘Lost City of the Incas’.
- Touring Lima’s UNESCO heritage-listed historical downtown.
- Enjoy a scenic lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge at the entrance of the ruins,
- enjoy complimentary cocktails and appetizers at the Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful gardens of Museo Larco.
Tour Overview
This Highlights of Peru tour is the classic trip to explore Peru in one week. This trip has been carefully designed to help you acclimate to the high altitude of Cusco. Immediately upon arrival in Cusco you will rest, and the following day you will enjoy a fully private tour of the city. Apart from the main highlights of Cusco, you will visit Casa Concha museum or the lively San Pedro Market. The tour continues with a visit to the citadel of Machu Picchu and an overnight near the ruins. After returning to Cusco we will tour Lima, the capital of Peru, and 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
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.
Package Price: From £$ 3676
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
Home - Peru
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.
Lima - Cusco
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At the appropriate time, you will walk back to the airport to check-in for your flight to Cusco.
At the appropriate time, you will walk back to the airport to check in with your flight to Cusco.
Upon arrival to Cusco, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to acclimate.
The elevation in Cusco is approximately 3400 meters (11200 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.
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.
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Cusco
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This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco, where you will visit the Korikancha Temple, 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 an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals selling or purchasing items from the market.
This afternoon there will be time for lunch 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. This 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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Machu Picchu
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At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the train station.
The Vistadome 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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Day of Leisure
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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 the time of booking (subject to availability).
Upon arrival at the train station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
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Cusco - Lima
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At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima.
Upon arrival to Lima, you will be met at the airport and 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 San Martin's beauty 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 on-site Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful surrounding gardens.
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Flight Back Home
At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight home.
At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Lima, Peru
Cusco, Peru
Machu Picchu, Urubamba Province, Cusco, Peru
Places You'll See
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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).
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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.
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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.
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
Featured Accommodation
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is an intimate Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and 81 whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in the cloud forest. The hotel has acres of exquisite natural beauty, where 214 bird species – such as the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock – and the world’s largest native orchid collection have been registered. After exploring the Historic Sanctuary and in-house excursions, guests can enjoy the Unu Spa, which combines the classic nurturing with a mystical Andean approach. The first-class restaurant features stunning views of Vilcanota River, and shares the secrets of Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Machu Picchu , PERU
4 Star Properties
El Mercado
Cusco , PERU
The elegant and welcoming El Mercado is located three and a half blocks from the Plaza de Armas or main square of Cusco. Formerly part of the old farmer’s market, El Mercado has been designed to incorporate some of the elements of the market, both in its original decor, friendly casual atmosphere and innovative cuisine. The rooms are welcoming, with original decor and all amenities, including Wi-Fi, cable TV, and more. Marble bathrooms offer a separate rain shower. With only 32 rooms, El Mercado provides the best of colonial and contemporary architecture, all the latest comforts and truly exceptional service.
Palacio Manco Capac
Cusco , PERU
Palacio Manco Capac is a hotel built on an ancient republican house, built on the San Cristobal hill, where the foundation of Manco Capac’s original residence used to be. In the property, an authentic Inca wall from the building can be appreciated only a few meters from the hotel.
El MaPi
Machu Picchu , PERU
Step into the smart, contemporary and cozy confines of El MaPi, amidst the picturesque Machu Picchu Pueblo. Discover an efficient, lively and friendly atmosphere, welcoming guests expecting an unfussy, down-to-earth break. The flowing lobby creates a sense of vitality. Lofty ceilings, panoramic windows and an open cafe allow natural light to filter between tall eucalyptus dried branches, creating an ambiance of order and wellbeing. Relax in a pleasant and wholesome ambiance after an enlightening visit to Peru’s most famous destination: the Machu Picchu Archaeological site.
Casa del Sol
Machu Picchu , PERU
Casa del Sol Machu Picchu – Boutique Hotel, is a part of Peru’s largest “boutique collection”, which involves the most beautiful destinations of Peru. Located in the middle of beautiful, stunning, and majestic landscapes in which guests breathe an air of relaxation and tranquility. All guests will have contact with nature and culture. Guests can enjoy the relaxation sanctuary, for restorative treatments and ancestral therapies or feast on Peruvian high standard cuisine with a panoramic view to the Vilcanota River at the Manka Restaurant.
Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima
Doubletree El Pardo, Lima
Lima , PERU
Step into the contemporary, Peruvian, art-adorned lobby of El Pardo DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and enjoy a freshly baked DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookie on arrival, along with a warm welcome. Relax in comfortable guest rooms and inviting suites fully equipped with complimentary WiFi, work stations and 47-inch TVs. The fitness center features modern equipment to customize any exercise routine. Swim laps in the indoor pool and enjoy spectacular views of Lima from the sun deck. Whether in town for the Lima Film Festival, meetings at Lima corporations or simply looking for the comforts of home after trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the El Pardo DoubleTree in Miraflores is an ideal location.
Lima : Innside by Meliá Lima Miraflores
Innside by Meliá Lima Miraflores
Lima , PERU
INNSIDE Lima Miraflores is the perfect place to start exploring Peruvian culture and finding fun. With a strategic location for travellers who love exploring the city both on business and leisure trips.
The hotel provides urban-style rooms with everything required for comfort for people travelling alone, with a partner or with family.
The rooms provide high speed Wi-Fi, telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV and minibar.
INNSIDE Lima Miraflores offers a 24-hour fitness center, Wi-Fi, varied styles of international cuisine in the 352 Gastrobar and a Rooftop Bar next to the pool where guests can enjoy a variety of Peruvian tapas and cocktails.
The hotel also offers guests a space for social and corporate events, with excellent technology and equipment accompanied by personalised service.
5 Star Properties
Inkaterra La Casona
Cusco , PERU
Vibrant is the word which best describes Cusco, capital of the vast Inca Empire some six hundred years ago, now transformed as the most important colonial center in the Andes, an axis of exploration and favorite destination for today’s international traveler. Inkaterra La Casona Cusco, an exquisite 16th century colonial mansion, is an exquisite and exclusive manor, carefully restored to retain its historical heritage. Surrounding the main patio, its eleven suites are provided with chimneys, heated floors and extra-large bathtubs. Its halls are decorated with colonial furniture, Pre-Columbian textiles and original murals.
Cusco : Palacio del Inka by Libertador, Cusco
Palacio del Inka by Libertador, Cusco
Cusco , PERU
A storied mansion dating back nearly five centuries, Palacio del Inka stands in the historic center of Cusco. Just a five-minute walk from the main square and less than a mile from an array of museums, markets, and restaurants. Uniting the past and present, the Spa presents indigenous treatments and an indoor therapy pool. Meanwhile, Inti Raymi Restaurant offers authentic Peruvian dishes. The 203 exquisitely appointed guest rooms combine Peruvian art and handcrafted furnishings with contemporary amenities—from a signature Luxury Collection bed to state-of-the-art technology, including an LED TV, High Speed Internet Access, and an iPod docking station.
Sumaq Hotel
Machu Picchu , PERU
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel is a luxury property with rooms and shared areas, which has been recently refurbished inspired by the millenary Andean Culture. With a privileged location on the skirts on the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and near the shores of the Vilcanota River, Sumaq offers an impressive view of the mountains and most of the beautiful landscapes, excellent service, authentic Peruvian cuisine, and the mystic connection with local traditions. Sumaq’s mission is to protect the local environment and the indigenous culture. The sustainable practices – from staff and hotel operations to guest services – have been certified by the Rainforest Alliance.
Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo
Machu Picchu , PERU
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is an intimate Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and 81 whitewashed adobe casitas tucked away in the cloud forest. The hotel has acres of exquisite natural beauty, where 214 bird species – such as the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock – and the world’s largest native orchid collection have been registered. After exploring the Historic Sanctuary and in-house excursions, guests can enjoy the Unu Spa, which combines the classic nurturing with a mystical Andean approach. The first-class restaurant features stunning views of Vilcanota River, and shares the secrets of Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
Hilton Lima Miraflores
Lima , PERU
We’re in the heart of Miraflores, within five minutes of Larcomar, and 10 minutes from Surquillo markets. Kennedy Park is one kilometer away and we’re 15 minutes from Huaca Pucllana. Enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine in our restaurant. WiFi’s on us and we have a rooftop infinity pool, a fitness center, and an executive lounge with views of Lima.
Lima : Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima
Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima
Lima , PERU
Located in the charming district of San Isidro, where trendy boutiques and restaurants share space with ancient Inca ruins, Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima is your ticket to discover the true gem that is the capital of Peru. Enjoy Lima’s best rooftop bar and get ready to fall in love with Peruvian cuisine, its world renowned local produce and artful preparations at our top ranked restaurant Isidro. Experience personalized service along modern comforts in unique settings, whether you are in town for leisure or business.
Luxury Properties
Cusco : Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
Cusco , PERU
Set in a tranquil plaza behind Cusco’s main square, this former palace and convent emerged from years of restoration to become one of the city’s most exclusive hotels, Palacio Nazarenas. Step past walls of Inca stones and into a cloistered courtyard with an ancient fountain at its heart. Then be surprised as contemporary Cusco comes to the fore: a fabulous spa, the city’s first outdoor pool and stylish restaurants serving cutting-edge local cuisine. This intimate urban retreat has just 55 suites, each enriched with oxygen and with its own private bar where guests can create drinks accented with fresh ingredients grown at and around the hotel.
Cusco : Belmond Hotel Monasterio
Belmond Hotel Monasterio
Cusco , PERU
Right beside the lively Cusco Central Square is Belmond Hotel Monasterio, a former monastery and national monument dating from 1592. One of the most unique hotels in Cusco, this delightful retreat combines centuries-old charm with luxury hotel service. Discover inspired restaurants and 125 boutique rooms and suites with original design elements and free Wi-Fi, all clustered around a tranquil central courtyard. The ideal hotel from which to discover the delights of Cusco, its doors open to a vibrant scene of old and modern architecture, markets, galleries and restaurants serving ‘new Andean’ cuisine.
Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)
Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)
Machu Picchu , PERU
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located adjacent to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. It offers its guests exceptionally easy access from early morning to late afternoon, when most of the day visitors and buses have left. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and are all equipped with Satellite TV, Wireless Internet, minibar, and private bathroom. Experience the dedicated relaxation area, the perfect place for yoga and meditation. Sit out on a terrace and savor Peruvian cuisine based on produce grown on the Lodge’s own plot. This delightful hideaway is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the shadow of the Lost City.
Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (Mountain View With Terrace)
Sanctuary Lodge (Mountain View With Terrace)
Machu Picchu , PERU
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge is the only hotel located adjacent to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. It offers its guests exceptionally easy access from early morning to late afternoon, when most of the day visitors and buses have left. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and are all equipped with Satellite TV, Wireless Internet, minibar, and private bathroom. Experience the dedicated relaxation area, the perfect place for yoga and meditation. Sit out on a terrace and savor Peruvian cuisine based on produce grown on the Lodge’s own plot. This delightful hideaway is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the shadow of the Lost City.
Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza (Ocean View)
Miraflores Park Plaza (Ocean View)
Lima , PERU
Set in one of Lima’s most fashionable areas, the Belmond Miraflores Park takes guests straight to the heart of all that’s best about this great capital city. Renowned for its beautiful garden location beside the Pacific Ocean, it has breathtaking views out to sea. This luxurious hotel combines personalized service, exceptional dining and indulgent facilities to create the perfect base from which to explore. Colonial architecture, superb museums with Inca gold and Pre-Columbian antiquities, and glamorous shops, bars and restaurants are all just moments from the hotel. The Ocean View suites offer breathtaking ocean vistas as well as separate sitting and work areas.
JW Marriott, Lima
Lima , PERU
Be treated to a memorable hotel experience in Peru at the JW Marriott Hotel Lima. Offering guests superior service, luxury accommodations, and an unbeatable location, this resort caters to the discerning and adventuresome traveler. Located in Lima’s distinctive Miraflores district, be near top fine dining, notable historic sites, and picturesque public spaces. The stylish guest rooms and suites feature spectacular ocean views and include amenities like marble bathrooms and designer bedding. Savor fine Peruvian dining at one of the two acclaimed restaurants, book a spa treatment at the Health Club, or break a sweat in the state-of-the-art fitness center.
Testimonials
Adina & Doron
Traveled February, 2016
A fantastic trip – could not have happened without your hard work
As this trip comes to an end Adina and I wanted to take this opportunity to personally thank you for all your hard work. Your planning and organization were superb.Most hotels were above our expectations with the last hotel in Cuzco being the crown jewel. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly.
To conclude it was a fantastic trip and could not have happened without your hard work.
Traveled To
Susan R.
Traveled December, 2015 - February, 2016
A remarkable and wonderful trip
This has been a remarkable and wonderful trip for us that will live in our memories forever. Please know that we appreciate all of your help. It has been a great two months.
Traveled To
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.
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