Peru Discovery: Desert, Coast and Ancient Sites | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Peru Discovery: Desert, Coast and Ancient Sites

PRIVATE TOUR - 15 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 9001

Private Tour Highlights

  • Marveling at the imposing desert scenery of the Colca Canyon and the circling condors overhead; one of the great icons of Peruvian indigenous culture.
  • Setting foot in the magical Incan citadel, Machu Picchu; a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  • Taking a light aircraft over the Nazca Lines, a head-scratching astronomical calendar that predates the Incas.
  • Heading out in a traditionally crafted canoe to the floating island of Uros on mythical Lake Titicaca, home to the ancient Uros tribe.
  • Witnessing the fascinating wildlife that inhabits the Ballesta Isles, including Sea Lions, Penguins and more than 60 species of Sea Birds.
  • Visit San Pedro Market, a lively, local market where one can purchase local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to interact with the locals.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

This two week Peru tour includes the country’s most popular destinations, exploring desert, coast and ancient sites.  These destinations include Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon and the Nazca Lines. Your tour begins in Lima with a city tour of Peru’s capital.  Lima recently is famous for being number one in the world culinary destination. Then continue in altitude to the lovely historic Cusco.   Descend for breathtaking Machu Picchu and spend time in this magical place.  Next you will be flying to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Your tour continues onward to Arequipa and the Colca Canyon before making a final stop in Nazca and Paracas before returning to Lima.

Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. They did this out of respect for UNESCO recommendations and this sacred site.  Currently only 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.

We can customize this trip to fit your individual travel dates and any specific requests. Your travel consultant will prepare a customized itinerary for you.

Inclusions
Prices include one-way airfare from Lima to Arequipa; one-way airfare from Lake Titicaca to Cusco; one-way airfare from Cusco to Lima; round-trip bus transportation from Lima to Nazca; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; hotel accommodation including continental breakfast; locally guided tours in English including all entrance fees; flight over Nazca Lines; cruise to Ballesta Isles; and meals where specified.

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): Fantastic train ride that 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 at 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 £$ 9001

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 to Lima, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Upon arrival to Lima, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

plane-home-flight
Day
2

Private Half Day City and Larco Museum Tour

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

Day
3

Lima - Arequipa

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

Upon arrival in Arequipa, be greeted for airport assistance and transferred to the hotel.

After settling in, you will be transferred from your hotel to the Carmen Alto Viewpoint. Here you will start the tour, from where you will have a panoramic view of the city. Continue to the exclusive and traditional neighborhood of Yanahuara, surrounded by archaeological remains and where one of the flagship churches of the cusquena mestizo art, built in 1750, is located. From there, you will be transferred to the center of the city to visit the Main Square (undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country) the Compania de Jesus Church (1590), the Cathedral (built in the seventeenth century and rebuilt after several earthquakes) and the Santa Catalina Monastery, built in 1579, which is an authentic cloister.
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Arequipa - Santa Catalina Convent_Peru
Day
4

Arequipa to Colca Canyon Tour

We will leave Arequipa via Yura, a district characterized by its rugged scenery, hills and cliffs. Then, enter Pampa Canahuas Reserve, an extensive plain where vicunas, Andean camelids, the Peruvian national symbol, can be seen. Continue to Vizcachani, Pampas de Toccra, up to the crater of the volcano Chucura and on to Mirador de los Andes at Patapampa (4800 m.a.s.l. feet) where the volcanoes surrounding Arequipa can be seen. Lunch will be served in the town of Chivay, then transfer to your hotel to rest. In the evening, enjoy the thermal springs near your hotel (on your own). ...read less

Colca_Canyon_Peru
Day
5

Colca Canyon Tour

Morning, read more...

Morning, visit Cruz del Condor to see the Colca Valley (one of the deepest canyons in the world), followed by an breathtaking sight: the great and majestic condor flying only a few feet away. On the way back to Chivay, we will go through the villages of Pinchollo, Maca, Achoma, Yanque and the vantage points at Antahuilque and Choquetico. After lunch, we will visit the village of Coporaque and the Colcas at Chininia, pre-Inca constructions. From here, we will head to the vantage point at Ocolle and the amphitheater, followed by a short walk to the little-explored ruins at Uyo-Uyo. Return to Chivay in the afternoon. ...read less

Yanque_Peru
Day
6

Colca Canyon - Puno (Lake Titicaca)

Private transfer to Puno passing by Patahuasi. After a brief stop at Lagunillas or Cabanillas to enjoy our boxed lunch, continue the magical tour of the Andean plateau, stone forests, sky-blue lakes populated by white flamingoes flying over 4,000 meters (13,200 feet) above sea level. We will arrive at Puno late afternoon and transfer to your hotel.

Private transfer to Puno passing by Patahuasi. After a brief stop at Lagunillas or Cabanillas to enjoy our boxed lunch, continue the magical tour of the Andean plateau, stone forests, sky-blue lakes populated by white flamingoes flying over 4,000 meters (13,200 feet) above sea level. We will arrive at Puno late afternoon and transfer to your hotel.

Titilaka_sunset_Peru
Day
7

Semi-Private Full Day Tour of Taquile and Uros Including Lunch

Upon your arrival at Puno's lake port, a vessel will take you to the floating islands of the Uros. Uros are an ancestral society that inhabits a series of artificial islands built with totora, a reed that grows in the lake. The islands are built by weaving this reed in the places where they grow the thickest and form a natural layer. They build their totora houses over it and cook in the open air to prevent possible fires. After a one and a half-hour tour, you will continue your trip to the Taquile Island.

Unlike other islands, inhabited by Aymara-speaking people in the lake, its residents speak Quechua. It was part of the Inca Empire and it is possible to note vestiges of said culture in their buildings. Upon your arrival, you will receive a brief explanation on the island and will attend a cultural activity. You will return to Puno after lunch. ...read less

Yampu_boat_Peru
Day
8

Flight to Cusco

This morning, be met at the hotel in Puno and transferred to the airport for a flight to to Cusco.

Upon arrival to Cusco, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
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.

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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Day
9

Private Half Day Cusco City Walking Tour

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. ...read less

Cusco_Sacsahuaman_Fortress_Peru
Day
10

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
11

Day at Leisure Machu Picchu

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).
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Machu_Picchu_Peru
Day
12

Cusco - Lima - Paracas

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 and transferred to the bus station for a group bus trip to Paracas. Upon arrival you will be met at the bus station to transfer to your hotel for an evening at leisure in Paracas to enjoy the hotel's facilities.

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 and transferred to the bus station for a group bus trip to Paracas. Upon arrival you will be met at the bus station to transfer to your hotel for an evening at leisure in Paracas to enjoy the hotel's facilities.

Paracas_Peru
Day
13

Ballestas Islands - Flight over the Nazca Lines

This morning, you will be met at your hotel by a Yampu representative for a private transfer to the pier and cruise to the Ballesta Isles.

Head to the pier of your hotel to board the launch for the Ballestas Islands. 45 minutes of the coast of Paracas, the Ballestas Islands attract an impressive quantity of marine animals: chiefly seabirds and penguins, as well as large populations of seals, which swim and jump close to the boat.

Then, transfer to the airport in Pisco where we will board a Grand Caravan airplane, seating 12 passengers for a group flight over the Nazca Lines.

Face one of the world's greatest mysteries while flying over the Nazca Lines. The town, settled besides a small river crossing the desolate plain of San Jose, passed unnoticed until commercial airlines began crossing the desert during the late 1920's. Scientist's attention was immediately drawn to Nazca but the mystery remains unsolved.

What exact purpose did they meet? We don't quite know. The truth is they depict coastal, highland and jungle fauna (whale, hummingbird, monkey, spider) as well as geometric figures (lines, trapeze, triangle). Thereafter, weather and air-traffic controllers permitting, fly above the figured-scrapped hills of Palpa. The Palpa Lines are believed to predate those of Nazca, picturing animals and human figures and a prominent deity. The Nazca culture flourished between 50 B.C. and 600 A.D, studies suggesting their society suffered an environmental collapse derived from huarango deforestation.
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Nazca_Lines_Peru
Day
14

Private Half Day Tour of Paracas National Reserve

In the morning, enjoy a private tour while visiting part of the 355,000 ha of the Paracas Natural Reserve. Travel across what seems like desert wasteland but what really is home to a huge variety of marine birds (locally known as aves guaneras for their production of guano - droppings used as fertilizer) and other wildlife, the entire time taking in the unique beauty of their natural habitat.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the bus station for an afternoon group bus trip to Lima with regular seats.

Upon arrival in Lima, you will be greeted for assistance and a private transfer to the airport to connect with your international flight home.
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Humboldt_Penguins

Lima, Peru

Cusco, Peru

Machu Picchu, Urubamba Province, Cusco, Peru

Lake Titicaca

Nazca Lines, Nazca, Peru

Places You'll See

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Colca-Canyon

    Colca Canyon

    More than twice as deep as America’s Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest in the world. It is home to the Andean Condor, a near threatened species of bird. Get a glimpse of many other species of creatures as you enjoy the La Calera natural hot springs. Visit some of the many archeological sites such as the caves of Mollepunko, or attend the Wititi festival.

  • Arequipa_Peru

    Arequipa

    With a blend of European and native characteristics, and historical heritage, Arequipa has earned the title of an UNESCO World Heritage Site. With many of its buildings being built out of sillar, a white stone, it was given the nickname the “White City.” Learn about the history and culture by visiting any of the numerous museums and monuments.

  • Nazca-Lines

    Nazca

    The town of Nazca is enjoyable both by land and by air. Take a trip to the Museo Arqueologico Antonini, to learn about the many local archeological sites. Or visit the Cemetery of Chauchilla to see ancient mummies in their original graves. Take a small plane over the town to see its star attractions, the Nazca Lines, massive geometric shapes carved into the desert ground.

Hotel Options

Machu-Picchu-Inkaterra-Peru

Featured Accommodation

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo (Suite Room)

Best nature retreat when visiting the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas Stay at Inkaterra luxury Machu Picchu Hotel, your ultimate cloud forest vacation paradise, an intimate 85-casitas luxury hotel in sprawling Andean style village within the secluded12 acres of exquisite beauty. Follow stone pathways along the terraced hills, melding with the sacred energy of the mountains. Indulge in Inkaterra’s spa services which use sublime natural essences. A first-class restaurant boasts stunning views of the rushing Vilcanota River.

On the hotel grounds, soak in nature trails winding past waterfalls and gardens; your trained Explorer Guide will explain the fascinating cloud forest ecosystem. Discover a working tea plantation, and the world’s largest private collection of indigenous orchids, open to the public.

Optional activities at the lodge include (extra fees may apply): Travel at twilight to an ancient petroglyph and absorb the timeless spirit of Machu Picchu. Or search for the Andean Cock of the Rock at the river observatory. Nature activities abound, but ideal itineraries include an Andean eucalyptus sauna, followed by massage or a star-lit plunge pool dip. Advance reservations recommended.

Machu Picchu ,

4 Star Properties

Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima

Lima : Innside by Meliá Lima Miraflores

Arequipa : Hotel Katari

Arequipa : El Cabildo

Colca Canyon : Aranwa Pueblito Encantado del Colca

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

Puno (Lake Titicaca) : Casa Andina Premium, Puno

Cusco : El Mercado

Cusco : Palacio Manco Capac 

Machu Picchu : El MaPi

Machu Picchu : Casa del Sol

Paracas : Aranwa Paracas Resort & Spa

Paracas : La Hacienda Bahia Paracas (Suite)

5 Star Properties

Lima : Hilton Lima Miraflores

Lima : Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima

Arequipa : Casa Andina Premium (standard), Arequipa

Colca Canyon : Colca Lodge

Puno : GHL Lago Titicaca

Cusco : Inkaterra La Casona

Cusco : Palacio del Inka by Libertador, Cusco

Machu Picchu : Sumaq Hotel

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Paracas : Doubletree Guest Suites by Hilton Paracas

Luxury Properties

Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza (Ocean View)

Lima : JW Marriott, Lima

Arequipa : Costa Del Sol Arequipa

Arequipa : CIRQA – Relais & Châteaux, Arequipa

Colca Canyon : Belmond Casitas del Colca

Puno : Titilaka (All Inclusive)

Cusco : Belmond Palacio Nazarenas

Cusco : Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (Mountain View With Terrace)

Paracas : Paracas Luxury Collection Libertador

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

Tina R.

Traveled September, 2014

Had the Most unbelievable time.

Had the Most unbelievable time. The trek was just awesome. Really hard in parts, but mostly just breathtaking. My worst nightmare was realized when I was introduced to the group of trekkers- 4, 20 something marathon runners. There was only 5 of us in the trek so there was nowhere to hide. Having said that, I didn’t hold them up too much. We were always first into camp, and Hector our guide did have to slow us down at times to let the porters set up tents etc. Everything was just great the food, knowledge of our guide, and we had 11 porters for the 5 of us. So thank you for your expertise in organizing this for me. The rest of south-america was equally as amazing, and will be going back next year with the Family, so will be in contact. Thanks to my Transfer guide who was just amazing, and helped me re-book the flights and get me to Cusco on time. All the transfers were just perfect, and so relieving to have things work smoothly, when you don’t speak the language. Thanks again for all your help. Everything worked like clock work.

Traveled To

Yolande

Traveled November, 2015

Machu Picchu is just an amazing structure

Our holiday has started off really nicely so far – lovely hotels, good guides and well organized – thanks to you and your team! Machu Picchu is just an amazing structure, and we were pleased that the kids managed to walk the entire lower trail without too much fussing! The guide was thankfully patient, and I think that the attraction of the lamas at the end helped them to incentivise them to get to that point. Boy, the 28 hour journey home was arduous! It’s so wonderful to be home, though. Thank you soooo much again for making the trip so fantastic and memorable. We’d definitely recommend you to our friends who wish to make the sojourn. A few have already expressed their interest.

Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

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