Peru’s Hidden Gems 12-Day Private Exploration
Price
Duration
Min Age
Tour Type
12-Day Exclusive Southern Peru Tour: Authentic & Sustainable Adventure
Embark on a bespoke 12-day journey through the heart of Southern Peru, crafted for those who seek unique, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences. This private tour promises safety, purpose, and a deep connection with local cultures and environments. Discover Peru’s enchanting allure on a 12-day private journey through its southern region. From Lima’s vibrant streets to the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca, embrace diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Marvel at the majestic condors in Colca Valley and explore Cusco’s rich Incan heritage. The Sacred Valley awaits with its lush scenery and age-old traditions. Culminate your adventure at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This meticulously crafted itinerary ensures a unique, authentic, and sustainable travel experience, deeply connecting you with Peru’s spirit. Embrace this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, designed for safety, purpose, and an unforgettable impact.
Highlights
- Lima’s Urban Elegance: Start your adventure in Lima, where the past and present merge. Wander through streets lined with colonial architecture, experience the bustling local markets, and savor Peru’s renowned culinary arts.
- Colca Valley’s Majestic Condors: Journey to the Colca Valley, famed for its deep canyons and the captivating flight of condors. Witness these magnificent birds soaring against breathtaking landscapes, a truly awe-inspiring sight.
- Tranquility of Lake Titicaca: Experience the serenity of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Immerse in the culture of its floating islands and understand the traditional lifestyles of its inhabitants.
- Cusco’s Incan Essence: In Cusco, the former heart of the Inca Empire, explore ancient ruins and observe the blend of Spanish colonial and Incan architectures. Roam its cobbled streets and delve into the city’s rich history.
- Sacred Valley’s Rich Traditions: Venture into the verdant Sacred Valley, known for its lush landscapes and enduring cultural traditions. Connect with local communities and learn about their sustainable practices.
- Machu Picchu’s Timeless Wonder: Conclude your expedition at the iconic Machu Picchu. Marvel at this Inca citadel, an enduring symbol of ingenuity and mystery, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andes.
Brief Itinerary:
Day 1 – Lima Arrival ExcellenceBegin your Peruvian adventure as you arrive in Lima. Immerse yourself in the city’s elegance, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Day 2 – Lima: Culinary and Historic Discovery:
Explore Lima’s rich history and indulge in its world-famous culinary scene. Discover the blend of traditional flavors and cultural heritage that define this vibrant city.
Day 3 – Arequipa Explorer: Colonial Charms and Spiritual Heritage:
Unveil the colonial beauty and spiritual depth of Arequipa. Marvel at its stunning architecture and delve into its historical significance.
Day 4 – Colca Valley Discovery:
Traverse the spectacular Andean landscapes of Colca Valley. Immerse in the natural beauty and rural charm of this breathtaking region.
Day 5 – Condor Sighting and Journey to Puno:
Experience the awe-inspiring sight of condors in their natural habitat. Continue your journey to Puno, a gateway to natural wonders.
Day 6 – Lake Titicaca’s Cultural Tapestry:
Discover the unique cultures of Lake Titicaca’s islands. Engage with local traditions and explore the serene beauty of the world’s highest navigable lake.
Day 7 – Elegance on Rails:
Embark on a luxurious train journey from Puno to Cusco. Revel in the scenic beauty and comfort of this elegant rail experience.
Day 8 – Discover Nature’s Masterpiece:
Trek to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, a spectacular natural wonder. Witness the stunning colors and geological formations of this unique site.
Day 9 – Sacred Valley Exploration:
Dive into the heart of the Andean village life and uncover the mysteries of Moray. Experience the vibrant culture and ancient history of the Sacred Valley.
Day 10 – Machu Picchu Odyssey:
Embark on an epic journey to the iconic Machu Picchu. Explore this ancient Inca citadel and marvel at its architectural and historical grandeur.
Day 11 – Memorable Cusco Journey:
Discover the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Wander through its historic streets, exploring the rich blend of Inca and Spanish influences.
Day 12 – Farewell to Cusco:
Conclude your extraordinary journey with a heartfelt farewell to Cusco. Reflect on your unforgettable adventure as you prepare for your departure.
Prices for this trip
Hotel Category | Double or Triple room | Single room Additional cost |
---|---|---|
Superior Tourist | US$ 3441 | US$ 542 |
First Class | US$ 3810 | US$ 1013 |
* Minimum 2 passengers to confirm the booking; solo traveler is subject to an additional fee.
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
Includes and excludes
Included
- Comfortable Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay for 11 nights in Lima, Arequipa, Colca, Puno, Cusco and Aguas Calientes hotels, with breakfast included.
- No Hidden Costs: Your journey comes without surprise expenses—every admission fee for Lima, Arequipa, Colca Valley, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu is included.
- Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking local guides will lead your tours.
- Hassle-Free Transfers: We provide all necessary transfers, including airport, train station, bus station transfers, and hotel pickups and drop-offs.
- Efficient Train Travel: Journey smoothly with a train ticket for the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Cusco route (Vistadome train).
- Culinary Delights: Savor mouthwatering meals as per your itinerary, with special dietary options available upon request.
- Convenient Ground Transportation: Enjoy reliable ground transportation services for the duration of your adventure.
- Round-the-Clock Support: Our local staff is available 24/7 to provide you with any necessary assistance.
Not Included
- Flights: Both domestic and international flights are not covered. For flight arrangements, please consult a travel agency if needed.
- Visa and Insurance: Procedures related to visas, travel insurance, and any pre- or post-tour accommodation are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Any additional personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages and laundry are not covered.
- Gratuities: Gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff are not included in the price.
- Language Guidance: If you require guidance in a language other than English (e.g., German, French), please inquire with your travel agent.
- Additional Items: Costs related to items that are not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary description are not included.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are also not covered.
Trip code: ESPE12D02-PVT
Day 1: Lima Arrival Excellence: Journey Begins Here
- Welcome to Lima: Upon arrival in Lima, travelers are greeted with warm hospitality by the dedicated team at Sun Gate Tours. From the moment the plane lands, their enchanting journey unfolds seamlessly. Navigating a foreign airport becomes effortless, as the team takes care of every detail.
- Private Transportation: Step into the comfort of our private transport, meticulously designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible.
- With no fixed agenda upon arrival, guests can quickly check into their accommodations, taking this time to rejuvenate for the remarkable adventures.
- Stay the Night at the Lima Hotel
- Meals: None
Day 2: Lima: Culinary and Historic Discovery
- Morning Culinary Start: After breakfast, join us at 09:30 for a sensory journey at a local market. Dive into a world of vibrant textures, colors, and aromas, setting the stage for your Peruvian culinary exploration.
- Cooking Classes: Next, we’ll take you to our cooking studio for a hands-on experience. Learn about and prepare authentic Peruvian dishes, creating a personal culinary masterpiece. Dive into a unique cooking class that combines hands-on learning with a relaxed atmosphere. Our experienced chefs make it both educational and enjoyable, ensuring you learn while having fun.
- Culinary Journey: Master the art of Peruvian classics. Gain insights into the history behind each dish and pick up expert tips for crafting the perfect meal. Indulge in over 10 distinct flavors, including causa acevichada, lomo saltado, pisco sour, and a traditional dessert.
- Self-Made Lunch: Savor a self-prepared lunch, enjoying the fruits of your labor.
- Afternoon Historical Exploration: At 14:00, embark on a walking tour of Lima’s historical center. Discover palaces, the Saint Francisco Monastery, and Catacombs, revealing the city’s rich history. Architectural Wonders: Visit the main square, Archbishop’s Palace, Municipal Palace, and more. Experience the old-world charm of the “Cordano Bar,” historical mansions, and the iconic Rimac Bridge, framed by traditional wooden balconies.
- UNESCO Heritage Site: Explore the history and culture of this UNESCO-protected area, a testament to Lima’s historical significance. Tour Conclusion: The tour wraps up around 18:00.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Lima.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 3: Arequipa Explorer: Colonial Charms and Spiritual Heritage
- Morning Departure to Arequipa: After enjoying an early breakfast at your hotel, prepare for a 06:30 pickup. We’ll escort you to the airport for your flight to Arequipa, ensuring a smooth and timely departure.
- Warm Welcome in Arequipa: Upon landing in Arequipa, receive assistance at the airport and a comfortable transfer to your lodging. Take this time to settle in and soak up the initial impressions of this stunning city.
- Afternoon Walking Tour: At 15:00, join us for a guided walking tour through Arequipa’s most traditional and characteristic locales. Wander streets lined with colonial houses that echo the tales of poets and nobles.
- Historical and Cultural Insights: As we make our way to the main square, marvel at the Basilica Cathedral, a beacon of religious significance, and the Jesuits’ Church of the Company of Jesus, showcasing exquisite architecture.
- Visit to Santa Catalina Monastery: The highlight of our tour is the visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina. Dating back to 1579, this monument is a testament to Peru’s spiritual and architectural grandeur. Wander through its narrow streets and gardens, reminiscent of Sevilla and Granada, and immerse yourself in centuries of history.
- Tour Conclusion: Our enlightening journey through Arequipa’s rich heritage concludes around 18:00, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of the city’s cultural and spiritual depth.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Arequipa.
- Meals: Breakfast.
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Day 4: Colca Valley Discovery: A Journey Through Andean Landscapes
- Scenic Departure from Arequipa: After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we’ll pick you up at 08:30. Embark on an enthralling land journey toward the Colca Valley. As you travel, marvel at the panoramic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.
- Aguada Blanca National Reserve: Your first major stop is the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, situated in Pampa Cañahuas. Here, witnesses the elegance of wild vicuñas in their natural habitat, a proud national symbol of Peru.
- Continue through the unique landscapes of Vizcachani and the Pampas de Toccra. Ascend to the Mirador de Los Andes at Patapampa (4800m), offering a breathtaking vista of Arequipa’s surrounding volcanoes.
- Historical Terraces at the Mirador: Before entering the heart of the Colca Valley, pause at a Mirador to admire the extensive pre-Columbian terraces, meticulously farmed by the indigenous Collaguas.
- Lunch in Chivay: Arrive in the charming town of Chivay, where you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional delicacies.
- Post-lunch, we’ll transfer you to your hotel. With no activities planned for the afternoon, take this time to rest and recharge in the comfort of your hotel, nestled amidst the serene Andean landscape.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Colca Valley.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 5: Condor Sighting and Journey to Puno: A Day of Natural Wonders
- Early Morning Start: After an early hotel breakfast, we’ll pick you up at 06:00 for a transfer to the Cruz del Cóndor. Prepare to be amazed by panoramic views of the Colca Valley, the world’s second-deepest canyon.
- Condor Encounter: Experience the awe-inspiring sight of majestic condors soaring just meters away, against the backdrop of the vast canyon.
- Cultural Insights: Our journey continues to the town of Pinchollo and the Antahuilque Viewpoint, showcasing a remarkable terrace system built 1,500 years ago. We’ll then visit Choquetico with its Tumbas Colgantes (hanging tombs).
- Exploration of Maca and Yanque: Journey through the towns of Maca and Yanque. Here, we’ll discover the valley’s most beautiful church and enjoy a local lunch in the picturesque town square.
- Scenic Route to Puno: At 13:00, embark on a scenic drive to Puno. The route offers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of Peru, including the unique stone forest and the bird-rich Lagunillas lagoon.
- Arrival in Puno: After approximately six hours on the road, savor the moment of arrival in Puno at 19:00. We’ll transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on a day filled with natural and cultural wonders.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Puno.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 6: Lake Titicaca’s Cultural Tapestry: Uncover the Secrets of its Islands.
- Morning Departure to Lake Titicaca: After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, we’ll pick you up at 07:00 for a transfer to Puno’s port, where your aquatic adventure begins.
- Uros Floating Islands: First, we’ll visit the fascinating Uros Floating Islands. Meet the Uros people, known for their incredible reed islands and homes constructed on Lake Titicaca. Learn about their unique way of life and ingenious island-building techniques using cattails from the lake.
- Journey to Taquile Island: After spending an hour with the Uros community, we’ll continue to Taquile Island. Here, you’ll notice the distinct use of the Quechua language, a legacy of the island’s Inca past. Taquile, known for its stunning textiles and traditional lifestyles, offers a glimpse into a culture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
- Island Tour and Lunch: Upon arrival at Taquile, we’ll provide a brief introduction followed by a guided tour, culminating in a traditional lunch. The island’s architecture, still influenced by the Incas, provides a fascinating backdrop to your visit.
- Return to Puno: In the afternoon, we’ll board the boat back to Puno, allowing you to reflect on the day’s experiences as you cruise back across the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca.
- Once we arrive at Puno’s port, we’ll ensure a smooth transfer back to your hotel. The tour concludes around 17:30, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of the cultural and natural wonders of Lake Titicaca.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Puno.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 7: Elegance on Rails: A Luxurious Train Journey from Cusco to Puno
- Early Start for a Scenic Train Ride: After a nourishing breakfast at your hotel, prepare for a 06:30 pickup and transfer to the train station. Get ready to embark on a remarkable journey that traverses the breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s altiplano region.
- Spectacular Andean Scenery: Board the PeruRail Titicaca train, an epitome of luxury and elegance. This ten-and-a-half-hour journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the serene beauty of the Andes. Watch as tranquil waters and soaring peaks unfold before your eyes, creating a constantly changing tapestry of nature’s splendor.
- Unforgettable Rail Experience: This exclusive train journey connects the mystical city of Cusco with the enchanting shores of Lake Titicaca in Puno. Revel in a full day of crossing the Peruvian highlands, combining the cultural richness of the Inca’s Imperial City with the serene magnificence of Lake Titicaca.
- Gourmet Dining Onboard: Enhance your journey with a sumptuous three-course gourmet lunch. Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Peruvian cuisine, prepared using the finest regional ingredients. This culinary delight complements the visual feast of the journey, making for an unforgettable experience.
- Train Schedule: Puno (07:30) – Cusco (17:50)
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
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Day 8: Discover Nature’s Masterpiece: Trek to Rainbow Mountain
- A Day of Natural Marvels: Kickstart your day with a satisfying hotel breakfast, followed by a 07:00 pickup from your hotel. We’re embarking on a 3-hour journey to the trailhead, passing by the charming Cusipata along the way. As you gaze out of the window, be prepared to be enchanted by alpaca and llama herds and catch a glimpse of the majestic Ausangate Mountain. It’s a perfect opportunity to snap some incredible photos and immerse yourself in the region’s rural beauty.
- The Ascent Begins: The day’s highlight awaits the hike to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain at an impressive elevation of 5,030 meters (16,498 feet). In just 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself standing before the iconic red hill, where your eyes will feast upon the vividly colored rock formations that earned this natural wonder its name. Turquoise, orange, brown, and red sedimentary rock strata paint a mesmerizing landscape before you.
- Panoramic Moments: We’ll take a well-deserved break at the peak and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views. Typically, this pause lasts for 45 minutes, providing the perfect opportunity to reflect on the awe-inspiring beauty of Rainbow Mountain.
- After basking in the beauty of the Andean vistas, it’s time to begin our descent. As we make our way back to the trailhead, you’ll have the chance to enjoy lunch before we commence our return journey to Cusco.
- Our 3-hour drive will take us back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Anticipate an approximate arrival time of 18:30, marking the end of a remarkable day filled with natural wonders.
- The estimated walking distance for the day is approximately 6 km (3.73 miles), with a walking time of 2 to 3 hours.
- Stay the Night at the Cusco Hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 9: Sacred Valley: Discover the Vibrant Andean Village and Enigmatic Moray
- Start the Adventure: At 09:00, embark on a journey from your hotel to the captivating Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop is the charming town of Chinchero, a historic Incan outpost with a traditional church dating back to the late 1400s.
- Andean Hospitality: Visit an authentic Andean Quechua village just 15 minutes from Chinchero. Experience a warm welcome with traditional Andean music and a sip of muña tea. Join the locals in their daily activities and savor a delectable meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Discover the region’s agricultural treasures and ancient tools still in use.
- Weaving Wonders: Witness the artistry of skilled weavers employing age-old techniques. A weaving demonstration showcases the transformation of alpaca and sheep wool into intricate fabrics. Explore the vibrant world of natural dyes and appreciate the time and effort invested in each tapestry, from spinning to weaving.
- Local Food Festival: Immerse yourself in a culinary tradition dating back to the Incas. Learn to cook Pachamanca, the legendary dish of the Incas, in a hand-built stone oven under the expert guidance of the locals. Savor native flavors with fresh ingredients from the area: pork, chicken, lamb, guinea pig, and a selection of Andean tubers. This is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of history, culture, and community.
- Moray’s Agricultural Marvel: Continue your adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Moray archaeological site. Encounter vast circular and semicircular agricultural terraces that served as experimental fields for the Incas to nurture over 3,000 plant varieties, including potatoes and corn.
- Conclude the Tour: Head to the Ollantaytambo railway station to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome followed by a seamless transfer to your hotel.
- Vistadome train: Ollantaytambo (19:04) – Aguas Calientes (20:45)
- Stay the Night at Aguas Calientes Hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 10: Machu Picchu Odyssey – A Journey to the Heart of the Inca Empire
- Experience the magic and majesty of Machu Picchu with this exclusive, private tour, designed to provide a deep and immersive connection to the heart of the Inca Empire.
- Fuel Up for Adventure: Start your day with a hearty hotel breakfast as you prepare for an unforgettable journey to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu archaeological site. At 08:00, board a bus that will whisk you away to this mountaintop fortress, standing proudly at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) above sea level. Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World since 2007, awaits your exploration.
- Guided Exploration: Around 09:30, join your expert guide for a captivating tour through the astounding ruins and ancient streets of Machu Picchu. Wander through town squares, climb intricately carved stone stairways, and feel the spiritual essence of this remarkable place, regarded as the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom. The guided tour will immerse you in Machu Picchu’s history and magic, lasting approximately two and a half hours.
- Return to Aguas Calientes: After your enriching tour, board a bus between 12:30 and 13:30 for a scenic journey back to Aguas Calientes.
- Delightful Lunch: From 13:30 to 15:00, savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, enjoying flavors that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage.
- Return to Cusco: Finally, board the train to return to Cusco, reflecting on the wonders you’ve encountered during your unforgettable Machu Picchu adventure.
- Vistadome train: Aguas Calientes (15:20) – Cusco (19:05)
- Stay the Night at the Cusco Hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 11: Embark on a Memorable Cusco Journey: Explore the Ancient Inca Capital
- Free Time to Explore: The day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
- Vibrant Market Discovery: At 14:00, we’ll pick you up for an exciting walking tour starting at the lively San Pedro market. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Cusqueños beyond the picture-perfect main square. Your expert guide will narrate the market’s history as you wander through narrow aisles brimming with colorful fabrics, delectable meals, fresh fruit juices, aromatic bread, and intriguing shaman stalls.
- Golden Legacy: The Adventure continues as we visit Qorikancha, where Santo Domingo’s convent sits atop an ancient, once fully gold-plated temple. Discover the mysteries that left early invaders in awe of its grandeur.
- Unearth Inca Majesty: Prepare for a voyage to Sacsayhuaman. This awe-inspiring Inca architectural masterpiece boasts breathtaking megalithic ruins perched majestically atop a hill overlooking Cusco.
- Cusco Unveiled: As you reach the hill’s summit, be prepared for awe-inspiring panoramic views of Cusco. This city harmoniously bridges the ancient and the contemporary.
- The tour will end around 17:30.
- Stay the Night at the Cusco Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast.
Day 12: Farewell to Cusco: Your Departure Day Adventure
- Seamless Departure: Make the most of your final day with a leisurely morning after a hearty breakfast. Then, we’ll ensure a smooth, stress-free transfer to the airport for your journey back home, with a convenient layover in Lima.
- Effortless Departure: Say farewell to Cusco in style and comfort as we handle all the details for your transfer.
- Lima Layover: While heading home, take advantage of a brief stop in Lima, a city known for its rich culture and culinary delights.
- Leave Cusco with cherished memories, and trust us to make your departure a breeze.
- Meals: Breakfast.