The Natural World

PERU

The rich heritage of the Inca Empire and that of the following Spanish colonisers makes Peru a country of historical fascination, a fascination that is complemented in full by the incredible diversity of the vast Amazon rainforest and the spectacular mountain scenery of the Andes. Colourful markets and festivals retain the traditional way of life and the ancient tracks of the Incas, which criss-cross the Andes, are followed still by locals and foreign trekkers alike.

The Best of Peru Tour

Up to twenty-seven guaranteed departures throughout the year. The tour may be booked either in its entirety or in sections, offering you the flexibility to make a combination with areas perhaps not included, such as a visit to Manu Biosphere Reserve, or an expedition to the remote but impressive Chachapoyas site of Kuelap. Each tour group will take a maximum of twenty members and will be hosted by local English-speaking or multi-lingual guides. The accommodation is in carefully-selected hotels, generally equivalent to 4- or 5-star standard in many places. Individual itineraries, special-interest and private tours are also prepared upon request.

Itinerary

Day 1: Lima-Trujillo.
Day 2:Trujillo's colonial districts, pre-Columbian culture and ruined city of Chan Chan.
Day 3: Chichlayo and the Bruning Museum, pre-Inca pottery and textiles. Fly to Lima.
Day 4: Fly to Arequipa. City tour, including the Convent of Santa Catalina and the cloisters of La Compania.
Day 5: Drive to Colca Valley, via Aguada Blanca.
Day 6: 'Condor's Cross' observation point to view Andean condors over deepest canyon in the world.
Day 7: Fly to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest lake in the world.
Day 8: Boat ride on Lake Titicaca and the islands of the Uros. Visit the ancient burial towers of the Aymaras.
Day 9: By train to Cusco.
Day 10: Afternoon tour of city.
Day 11: Day of leisure.
Day 12: Drive to Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit unfinished Inca fortress and Pisac market.
Day 13: Train to Machu Picchu. Tour of citadel.
Day 14: Sunrise visit to citadel.
Day 15: Fly to Puerto Maldonaldo andAmazon rainforest.
Day 16: Explore and admire rich flora and fauna of jungle.
Day 17: return to Lima and by bus to Ica, the wine and pisco capital of Peru.
Day 18: Boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. Seabirds, sea lions and penguins. Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines.
Day 19: Return to Lima Airport.

Complete Tour Price

From £2,475.00 per person
12-day Tour Price (Day 4-17): From £1,395.00 per person including domestic flights, most meals, carefully-selected accommodation and guide.

PERU – ‘Peru on Sale’ Tour

The rich heritage of the Inca Empire and that of the following Spanish colonisers makes Peru a country of historical fascination, a fascination that is complemented in full by the incredible diversity of the vast Amazon rainforest and the spectacular mountain scenery of the Andes. Colourful markets and festivals retain the traditional way of life and the ancient tracks of the Incas, which criss-cross the Andes, are followed still by locals and foreign trekkers alike.

Peru on Sale Itinerary

The ‘Peru on Sale’ itinerary has guaranteed daily departures throughout the year with a minimum of two passengers, and offers an inexpensive way of seeing the very best of Peru over a one week period. The itinerary, which can be extended to quote as required, is as follows:-

Day 1: LIMA

Arrive in Lima and transfer to hotel Carmel Don Carlos. In the afternoon visit the Historical Centre including the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace. Drive through the vibrant districts of San Isidro and Miraflores overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Tour the Huaca Pucllana, a 2000 year old oracle pyramid.

Day 2: CUSCO

Transfer to Lima airport. Upon arrival in Cusco, transfer to Del Prado Inn hotel. Morning at leisure. In the afternoon explore this most magical city, capital of the Inca Empire (15th Century) on a tour including Plaza Regocijo, Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Santo Domingo monastery and the old town. Drive out of the city to visit the Inca sites of Tambomachay, Kenko, Puca-Pucara and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Includes breakfast.

Day 3: CUSCO/SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS

Drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, strolling through the Inca living town where time seems to have stopped 500 years ago. Shop in the lively and colourful Indian Pisac market where locals following ancient traditions, sell or exchange their products. Includes breakfast and lunch. Stay overnight at the Casona de Yucay Hotel.

Day 4 : SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS/MACHU PICCHU

Transfer to Ollanta train station for Orient Express train service to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Guided tour of the marvellous citadel, visiting the main plaza, the royal quarters, the Temple of Three Windows, the circular tower and the sacred Sundial and burial grounds. Includes breakfast and lunch. Overnight at the Hatuchay Tower hotel.

Day 5 : MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO

Early rise is recommended to admire Machu Picchu at sunrise, a truly mystical experience. For the hiking enthusiasts, going up the Huayna Picchu peak overlooking the site or trekking the original Inca Trail to the Intipunku or Sun Gate is suggested. Afternoon Orient Express train service to Cusco station and transfer back to Del Prado Inn for the next two nights.

Day 6 : CUSCO

Day at leisure. Enjoy Cusco’s colonial churches and mansions built over original Inca constructions, admire its beautiful plazas or just stroll its picturesque cobblestoned streets. Includes breakfast.

Day 7 : CUSCO/LIMA

Transfer to Cusco airport. Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel or assistance for international flight connection.

Prices

From £513 per person (based on at least two passengers travelling) for 6 nights twin/double share accommodation as above, including activities and meals as described and internal flights from Lima to Cusco.
International flight prices from £589 - please ask for details.