Path to Peru - From coast to Amazon & Andes

DAY 1: WELCOME TO LIMA + CITY TOUR (IN THE AFTERNOON)

When your international flight arrives in Lima, look for your Kantu Peru tours will be holding a sign with your name on it as the first step in your Peru Family Vacation! We know you’ll most likely be a little tired after your long flight, so we’ll save you the stress and bring you straight to your hotel where you can shake off that icky flight feeling with a shower and rest before starting your city tour.

Our Kantu Peru Tours representative will pick you up from your hotel to start this fantastic tour where we will visit the most modern districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. We will visit the Financial Center, the Golf, the Olivar Park, the Huaca Pucllana a pre-Inca pyramidal temple that still survives the urban expansion where our guide will explain the history of this majestic place and then we will go towards Parque del Amor located in Miraflores, from where we can appreciate the majestic Pacific Ocean.

To continue with this adventure, we will go to the Lima Historic Center, declared by UNESCO in 1991 Cultural Heritage of Humanity, due to its beautiful architecture. where the Spanish established in the 16th century, we will visit the Plaza San Martín, the balconies and old mansions, and the Plaza Mayor where we will appreciate the most important buildings such as the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, the Archbishop’s Palace, Municipal and the crypt of Francisco Pizarro – founder of the city of Lima. Later, ending the tour, return to your respective hotel in Lima.

Overnight in Lima (double occupancy)

DAY 2: FULL-DAY HUACACHINA AND PARACAS TOUR

In the early morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Lima between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. Get ready for an unforgettable day filled with excitement, adventure, and stunning natural beauty. Our first stop will be the Ballestas Islands, located in the Paracas Reserve, where we will embark on a 2-hour boat tour. As we sail around the islands, you’ll be amazed by the incredible wildlife, including a variety of birds like pelicans, sea lions, and the charming Humboldt penguins.

After our adventure on the water, we will head to the breathtaking Oasis of Huacachina. This natural lagoon, surrounded by vast white dunes stretching over 58,000 kilometers, is a true paradise. Here, you’ll have the chance to hop on dune buggies and experience an adrenaline-pumping ride across the dunes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sandboarding down these towering dunes, which can reach heights of up to 25 stories! It’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Our journey doesn’t end there. We will also visit a traditional vineyard and winery in the Ica Valley, where you’ll learn about the rich history of winemaking in Peru and have the opportunity to taste some of the country’s finest wines and pisco. As the day comes to a close, we’ll make our way back to Lima, with hearts full of excitement and minds filled with the incredible sights and experiences of the day.

Overnight in Lima (double occupancy)

DAY 3: FLY TO PUERTO MALDONADO (DOMESTIC FLIGHT MUST BE BEFORE 13:00 HOURS)

Depending on your flight departure time, we’ll arrange for your pickup from your hotel in Lima and transfer you to the airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival, a friendly representative will be waiting to escort you to the port, where you’ll embark on a scenic boat journey through the heart of the Amazon rainforest to reach your eco-lodge. As you leave the city behind, you’ll begin immersion into the incredible jungle landscapes while enjoying your first authentic Amazonian cuisine.

Your destination, Posada Amazonas Lodge, offers a spacious and comfortable retreat in the heart of the rainforest. Here, you can unwind in style with amenities including a bar, a massage center, and buffet dining. Nestled within this serene setting, you’ll find a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

This afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating hike to the 40-meter-high Canopy Tower. From this vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the dense rainforest, with the Tambopata River meandering through the lush greenery below. It’s a spectacular introduction to the diverse and vibrant ecosystem surrounding you.

Overnight in Puerto Maldonado (double occupancy)

DAY 4: EXPLORE JUNGLE – MACAW CLAY LICK

For an unforgettable tropical bird experience in the Amazon, visiting the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is essential. This remarkable site attracts a diverse array of bird species, thanks to the nutrient-rich clay found in the cliff soil. Large flocks of Red and Green Macaws, along with vibrant Mealy Parrots, gather here to consume the clay, which provides vital nutrients that are scarce in their diet. The sight of these majestic macaws, with their vivid plumage and raucous calls, is truly awe-inspiring.

The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is considered one of the most stunning wildlife spectacles in the world, making it a must-see for travelers and families who cherish nature. The scene is a symphony of color and sound as macaws swoop down from the trees to feed on the clay, filling the humid jungle air with their screeches. The experience is as unique as it is enriching, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamic interactions of Amazonian wildlife.

This extraordinary visit is a highlight for all guests on Rainforest Expeditions, promising an immersive and fulfilling adventure in the heart of the Amazon. Witnessing the vibrant birdlife at the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick provides a deep connection to the rainforest and its inhabitants, ensuring a memorable addition to any Amazon journey.

Overnight in Puerto Maldonado (double occupancy)

DAY 5: RIVER CROSSING IN PUERTO MALDONADO- RETURN TO THE AIRPORT AND FLY TO CUSCO CITY

Our Amazon jungle adventure reaches its grand finale today as we embark on a picturesque return journey to Puerto Maldonado airport. As we glide through the vibrant, lush river vegetation, you’ll have the chance to witness the rainforest coming to life. With our expert naturalist guides by your side, you’ll spot a variety of Amazonian wildlife and immerse yourself in the enchanting morning symphony of the jungle.

Upon reaching Puerto Maldonado airport, you’ll board your flight to Cusco, where the next chapter of your Peruvian adventure awaits. This smooth transition ensures that you can reflect on your extraordinary rainforest experience while anticipating the wonders to come.

As you arrive in Cusco, a warm welcome from your Kantu Peru host awaits. They will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel, where you can relax and rejuvenate after your thrilling jungle escapade. Enjoy a well-deserved rest, preparing for the incredible experiences that lie ahead in this captivating city.

Overnight in Cusco City (double occupancy)

DAY 6: HALF-DAY CUSCO CITY TOUR (IN THE AFTERNOON)

In the afternoon, around 1:00 PM, you’ll begin a fascinating tour of the city of Cusco. Our guide and transport will pick you up from your hotel to start this immersion into Cusco’s Inca heritage. This tour will set the stage for the impressive Inca sites you will visit in the coming days.

The first stop will be the imposing Cusco Cathedral, a magnificent example of colonial architecture. Next, you will visit the Temple of the Sun, also known as Koricancha, famous for its incredible Inca stonework. Following this, you’ll explore the massive megalithic walls of Sacsayhuaman, a fortress that offers panoramic views of the city.

The tour also includes visits to the enigmatic Q’enqo, the Temple of the Puma, the fortress of Puca Pucara, and the Water Temple at Tambomachay. The tour will end around 6:00 PM, after which you’ll have free time to continue exploring Cusco on your own. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city, discover local shops, and savor its delicious cuisine.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 7: FULL-DAY SACRED VALLEY TOUR + AGUAS CALIENTES

At 7:30 AM, our tourist transport will pick you up from your hotel and take you through the majestic mountainous landscapes to Pisac. During the journey, we will make stops at panoramic viewpoints where you can capture stunning photos of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and marvel at its breathtaking views.

In Pisac, you’ll explore a fascinating archaeological site filled with terraces and temples that showcase the grandeur of the Inca civilization. You will also have time to wander through the vibrant artisan market, full of colorful local products. Afterwards, we’ll head to Urubamba, where a delicious lunch awaits you at a charming restaurant, offering a diverse buffet with unique flavors of the region.

In the afternoon, you’ll delve into the history and magic of the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, a place rich in culture and impressive Inca structures. Finally, we’ll take you to the Ollantaytambo train station for your train ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, preparing you for the next stage of your exciting journey.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)

DAY 8: TOUR IN MACHUPICCHU (THE LOST CITY OF THE INCAS)

Early in the morning, after breakfast and depending on your entry time to Machu Picchu, we will pick you up from your hotel and take you by bus to the majestic Inca city. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the Machu Picchu checkpoint. Once there, you will enjoy a guided tour of about two hours, during which you will explore the most important temples and sectors of this archaeological wonder. Please note that due to site restrictions, the tour is one-way, and returning to previously visited areas is not allowed.

After your guided tour, you will take the bus back from Machu Picchu to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch at your own pace. This is an excellent opportunity to relax and explore this charming town at your leisure.

In the afternoon, depending on your train schedule, you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. There, our driver will be waiting with a sign bearing your name to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you can rest and reflect on the incredible experience you’ve had.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 9: HALF DAY MORAY AND THE SALT MINES OF MARAS

Start your morning at 8 am with a pickup from your hotel, setting off on an exciting journey through the stunning Andean mountains towards Moray, located in the Maras region. As we reach Moray, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the unique circular terraces, which the Incas used for agricultural experimentation. Learn about the historical significance and innovative agricultural techniques of this ancient civilization while capturing breathtaking photos of this fascinating archaeological site.

After exploring Moray, we will continue to the quaint town of Maras, renowned for its charming colonial architecture. Stroll through streets lined with Spanish-style buildings and intricate gates that reflect the rich cultural blend of the region. Our journey then takes us to the Salt Mines of Maras, a mesmerizing network of over 3,000 salt pools that local families have harvested for generations. Marvel at the stunning landscape of glistening salt terraces cascading down the hillside, and witness the traditional methods still used to extract salt from these ancient pools.

Concluding the day’s adventure, we’ll make our way back to Cusco, where you’ll have the evening to relax at your hotel and reflect on the day’s experiences. Enjoy a restful night as you prepare for the next chapter of your Peruvian journey.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 10: FULL-DAY RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TOUR

The tour begins at your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 AM. Depending on your hotel’s location, the pickup time may vary. Once the group is ready, the exciting adventure to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain will commence. You will travel by tourist transport for approximately 2 hours to reach the community of Cusipata, where you will enjoy a delicious breakfast before continuing the tour.

From Cusipata, the journey continues along a dirt road for about 45 more minutes. Along the way, you will see breathtaking landscapes, canyons, and glaciers, including the Ausangate Glacier, the largest in the Cusco region. The natural beauty of the route will leave you in awe as you approach the colorful Rainbow Mountain.

After exploring Rainbow Mountain, considered one of the best day trips from Cusco, the group will hike back to the parking area and then return to the community of Cusipata. There, you will enjoy a delicious lunch before heading back to the imperial city of Cusco. Finally, at the end of the tour, we will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you can rest and reflect on the amazing experience you’ve had.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 11: HALF-DAY SOUTH VALLE TOUR IN CUSCO

Begin your journey into the lesser-known but equally captivating South Valley of Cusco with our Half-Day South Valley Tour, starting at approximately 8:30 AM. Our comfortable transportation will pick you up from your hotel and head south of Cusco, where rich history and stunning landscapes await. After about an hour’s drive, we arrive at our first stop: Tipón, an impressive archaeological complex that features 12 beautifully constructed agricultural terraces. This site not only showcases the incredible engineering skills of the Incas but also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.

Next, we visit Pikillacta, a significant pre-Inca site belonging to the Wari culture. This expansive urban center, with its vast network of streets and buildings, provides a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated society that thrived here long before the rise of the Inca Empire. Walking through its ruins, you’ll be transported back in time, imagining the bustling life of this ancient city that once played a crucial role in regional trade and culture.

Our final destination is the charming colonial village of Andahuaylillas, home to the renowned 16th-century Church of San Pedro Apóstol, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Adorned with intricate murals, lavish altars, and stunning colonial architecture, this church is a true gem of baroque art in Peru. After exploring these remarkable sites, we will return to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at the city center around 2:30 PM, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day in this vibrant city.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 12: FULL-DAY HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR

The Humantay Lake tour begins early, with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 a.m., depending on your location. After gathering the group, we’ll set off on an exhilarating adventure towards the stunning Humantay Lake. Our journey starts with a scenic 2-hour drive in our comfortable tourist transport to the charming community of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel you for the day’s activities.

From Mollepata, we continue our trek to Humantay Lake, a 1.5-hour hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes. As you reach the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the lake, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views that make the effort worthwhile. After taking in the natural beauty, we’ll head back to the van and drive to the restaurant where you’ll have a delicious buffet lunch, perfect for replenishing your energy after the hike.

As the day winds down, we’ll return you to Cusco, with our van dropping you off at your hotel between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Reflect on your awe-inspiring adventure to Humantay Lake as you enjoy a well-deserved rest, having experienced one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the Andes.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 13: FREE DAY TO EXPLORE CUSCO ON YOUR OWN

Today is your day to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cusco at your own pace. With no pre-arranged tours, you have the freedom to explore and discover the hidden gems of this historic city. Here are some recommendations to help you make the most of your day:

Visit San Pedro Market: Start your day at this bustling market, where you can experience local life, shop for unique souvenirs, and try traditional Peruvian snacks.

Walk Down Siete Borreguitos Street: Enjoy a stroll along this charming, lesser-known street lined with quaint houses and artisan shops.

Go Shopping: Explore the many boutiques in the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan shops and unique products like alpaca wool and silver jewelry.

Take Photos at Plaza de Armas: Visit Cusco’s main square to capture photos of the stunning colonial architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Enjoy a Pisco Sour: End your day with a refreshing Pisco Sour at a local bar or cafe around the Plaza de Armas.

Overnight in Cusco (double occupancy)

DAY 14: FULL DAY TO THE SUN’S ROUTE FROM CUSCO TO PUNO BY BUS

The incredible Sun Route tour begins around 6:00 AM. At the agreed time, we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the bus station. Our first stop will be the Chapel of Andahuaylillas, a 17th-century church known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” due to the beauty of its murals.

Next, we will head to Raqchi, famous for the Temple of the god Viracocha, the supreme deity of the Incas. Here, you will admire the largest colcas (storehouses) and magnificent stone and adobe constructions.

After exploring Raqchi, we will enjoy an included buffet at the La Pascana tourist restaurant. We will continue with a visit to La Raya to take spectacular photos and, finally, visit the Pukara museum, where you can appreciate ceramics and sculptures of zoomorphic figures. At the end of the tour, we will arrive at the Private Bus Terminal on Avenida Costanera 430. Upon arrival in Puno, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Overnight in Puno (double occupancy)

DAY 15: LAKE TITICACA – THE FLOATING ISLAND – FIRST PART

The Uros, Amantani, and Taquile Islands are wonderful places located on the highest navigable lake in the world, where you will have a truly unique experience.

We will pick you up from your hotel around 7:30 AM and take you to the port of Puno to board the boats that will lead us on this fascinating adventure. First, we will visit the floating islands of Uros, where our guide will explain the living culture of this place, and you will have free time to explore at your own pace.

Next, we will head to Amantani Island, with a journey of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. There, you will be welcomed by the local residents, and together with the host families, we will take a 25-minute walk to their homes. You will enjoy a typical lunch of trout and, after a well-deserved rest, we will hike to the top of the island to visit the Inca ceremonial temples of Pachamama and Pachatata. In the evening, you will enjoy dinner with the local people and participate in an Andean show organized by the families, where you can dance and wear traditional clothing.

Overnight with a local family in Puno (double occupancy).

DAY 16: TAQUILE ISLAND – PUNO PORT – SECOND PART

We will start the day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast, prepared with fresh products grown by the island’s inhabitants. After enjoying this traditional meal, we will head to the port of Amantani to board a boat that will take us to the picturesque island of Taquile.

On Taquile, a charming walk to the main square awaits, where you can marvel at the impressive views of the island and immerse yourself in its fascinating customs and unique textiles. You will have free time to explore at your own pace, enjoy the scenery, and savor lunch at a local restaurant that offers authentic regional cuisine.

After a day full of discoveries, we will descend to the port of Taquile to take the boat back to Puno. Upon arrival at the port of Puno, our transportation will be ready to take you back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the unforgettable experience you had on the islands of Lake Titicaca.

Overnight in Puno (double occupancy)

DAY 17: TRAVEL FROM PUNO TO COLCA – JOURNEY TO COLCA

Start your day early with a pickup between 6:00 a.m. and 6:15 a.m. by Kantu Peru Tours from your hotel in Puno. We will depart at 6:30 a.m. for a scenic journey to Chivay, a charming town nestled in the Colca Valley. The six-hour trip offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to explore three unique locations along the way. Our first stop is at Lagunillas, a beautiful lake where you can observe vibrant flamingos, Andean gulls, and mallards, offering a perfect opportunity for bird-watching and photography.

Continuing our journey, we reach Pampa Cañahuas, a vast expanse known for its striking rock formations and diverse wildlife. Here, you can see camelids such as vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing in their natural habitat. The final stop before reaching Chivay is at the Patapampa viewpoint, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,950 meters above sea level. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Misti, Chachani, and Ampato volcanoes, providing a stunning backdrop to your journey.

Upon arrival in Chivay around 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. After settling in, yvou have the option to unwind at the La Calera hot springs, known for their relaxing and medicinal thermal waters, which range from 35º to 38º Celsius. This is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of travel, soaking in the natural warmth and taking in the serene surroundings of the Colca Valley.

Overnight in Chivay (double occupancy)

DAY 18: CHIVAY – CRUZ DEL CONDOR – RETURN TO AREQUIPA

At 6:30 a.m., our representative will pick you up from your hotel to start the journey to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. This strategic observation point offers breathtaking views of the Colca Canyon and is the perfect spot to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to capture stunning photos of these magnificent birds soaring above the canyon. Afterward, we will board our tourist transport and make stops in the charming towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, where you can admire beautiful colonial churches and immerse yourself in the local culture.

We will also visit the viewpoints of Chocotico and Antahuilque, where you’ll gain insights into the valley’s impressive agricultural terraces and see the ancient pre-Inca tombs embedded in the cliffs. These stops provide a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and the ingenuity of its early inhabitants. The landscapes and cultural experiences make this day a memorable highlight of your journey.

After a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, we will begin our scenic journey back to the city of Arequipa. As we drive, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Andean landscape, a perfect end to a day of exploration. We expect to arrive in Arequipa around 6:00 p.m., giving you the evening to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

Overnight in Arequipa (double occupancy)

DAY 19: AREQUIPA PEDESTRIAN CITY TOUR + SANTA CATALINA CONVENT

Our representative will pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time to start your comprehensive pedestrian city tour of Arequipa. We will first visit the Church of the Company, renowned for its ornate baroque architecture. From there, we’ll proceed to the Plaza de Armas, the Main Square, where you can admire the Cathedral of Arequipa. This iconic church, built entirely from ashlar (volcanic stone), features stunning architecture that provides excellent photo opportunities.

Continuing our tour, we’ll visit the Archbishopric of Arequipa, an important historical building, before heading to the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco. Located in the historic center, this site is distinguished by its ashlar walls and single nave, reflecting a mestizo style that blends indigenous and colonial influences. This visit offers a glimpse into the city’s rich religious and architectural history.

Our tour will culminate with a visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a significant and expansive convent that provides insights into the religious life and cultural heritage of the region. After exploring this fascinating site, we will drop you back at your hotel, concluding an enriching and memorable day in Arequipa.

Overnight in Arequipa (double occupancy)

DAY 20: FLY FROM AREQUIPA TO LIMA – GOOD BYE PERU!

To ensure a seamless transition from your adventure, we will coordinate your airport pickup based on your flight details. Please provide us with your flight information so we can arrange the most convenient pickup time for you. This way, you can relax and enjoy the final moments of your journey without any stress.

Our dedicated team will monitor your flight schedule and ensure that our transport arrives punctually at your hotel. This personalized service is designed to make your departure as smooth and effortless as your arrival.

Rest assured that all the details will be handled with care, allowing you to focus on reflecting on your incredible experiences and looking forward to your next destination. If you have any special requests or additional needs, feel free to let us know so we can make your departure as comfortable as possible.

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