Peru By Belmond Tour

Inca Ruins | Peru

Immerse yourself in the magic of Peru with luxury sites that combine the country’s rich history, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking natural wonders.
An unforgettable adventure awaits you!

Day 1 : Arrival In Lima

Arrival in Lima at the international airport, either afternoon or evening. Transfer to hotel, meeting with personnel, and accommodation (private service).

Overnight:   Belmond Miraflores Park

Meals: -/-/-

Day 2 : Lima

Breakfast in the hotel. In the morning: 4-hour city tour of Lima (including entrance fees to the Cathedral, San Francisco Convent, and their catacombs) (private service with an English-speaking guide).

The afternoon is free.

Overnight:   Belmond Miraflores Park

Meals: B/-/-

Lima

Photo: Media Production

Day 3 : Lima - Cusco - Sacred Valley

Breakfast in the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, depart to visit the Sacred Valley. Visit Awana Kancha, the Pisaq market, and lunch at Wayra Restaurant. The rest of the day can be spent at your leisure.

Overnight:   Belmond Rio Sagrado

Meals: B/L/-

Sacred Valley

Photo: SL_Photography

Day 4 : Sacred Valley

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the fortress of Ollantaytambo, the Inca salt mines of Maras, and the ancient agricultural laboratory of Moray. Lunch with a tasting menu at MIL Centro restaurant (private service, English-speaking guide).

Overnight:   Belmond Rio Sagrado

Meals: B/L/-

Ollantaytambo ruins

Photo: Andrey Khrobostov

Day 5 : Sacred Valley - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

Breakfast in the hotel. Transfer to Ollantaytambo Station for the Hiram-Bingham luxury train from Aguas Calientes. Your guide will not accompany you on the train journey. Transfer by shuttle bus to the hotel. Visit Machu Picchu. The rest of the day can be spent at leisure. Dinner at the hotel.

Overnight:   Belmond Sanctuary Lodge

Meals: B/L/D

Machu Picchu ruins in Peru

© Latin Trails

Day 6 : Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Cusco

Breakfast in the hotel. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a second trip to Machu Picchu. (Private services, English-speaking guides). After lunch, you will take a bus to Aguas Calientes and take the Hiram-Bingham luxury train from there to Ollantaytambo. (Your guide won’t be with you on the train). Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be transferred to the Sacred Valley for the main luggage. (Around 2-hour journey).

Overnight: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas or Belmond Monasterio

Meals: B/L/D

Machu Picchu ruins

Photo: Andrey Khrobostov

Day 7 : Cusco

Breakfast in the hotel. Morning walking tour of Cusco’s historic center, San Blas neighborhood, and San Pedro Market (entrance to the Cathedral, and Santo Domingo/Coricancha are included). Visit the nearby ruins (Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay) after a 7-course lunch at MAP Cafe.

Overnight: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas or Belmond Monasterio

Meals: B/L/-

Sacsayhuaman | Peru

Photo: Darko Mlinarevic

Day 8 : Cusco - Lima

Breakfast in the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Lima

Meals: B/-/-


Highlights

  • Lima Cathedral: An imposing colonial building that is the spiritual heart of the city.
  • Awana Kancha: A cultural centre where you can see llamas and alpacas and learn about Andean textiles.
  • Ollantaytambo Fortress: An impressive archaeological complex offering an incredible view of the valley.
  • Moray Agricultural Laboratory: An Inca archaeological site with circular terraces that functioned as an agricultural laboratory.
  • Machu Picchu Citadel: One of the new seven wonders of the world, a site of extraordinary beauty and mystery.
  • Historic centre of Cusco: Including the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral and the neighbourhood of San Blas.
  • Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay: Nearby archaeological sites that offer a deep insight into Inca life and religion.

Travel Tips

  • Altitude: Be aware that both Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu are at high altitudes. It is important to take time to acclimatize and drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness. Consider consulting a doctor before traveling if you have medical concerns.
  • Reservations: Some activities, such as the Hiram Bingham train, or guided tours of Machu Picchu, may require reservations, especially during high season. Be sure to book in advance to guarantee your place.
  • Luggage: For train travel to Machu Picchu, be aware of luggage restrictions, especially if you plan to bring additional luggage. Consider leaving your main luggage at your hotel in Cusco or Sacred Valley.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent: For outdoor excursions, such as visits to Machu Picchu and activities in the Sacred Valley, be sure to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect you from the sun and insects.
  • Flexibility: Although the itinerary is planned, changes may occur due to factors such as weather or travel conditions. Be flexible and open to adjustments to the plan to make the most of your travel experience.

Accomodation

  • 2 nights at Belmond Miraflores Park (city view junior suite), Lima
  • 2 nights at Belmond Rio Sagrado (deluxe terrace), Sacred Valley
  • 1 night at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (standard), Machu Picchu
  • 2 nights at Belmond Palacio Nazarenas (junior suite) or Belmond Monasterio (superior), Cusco

Weather Preparedness

  • Lima has a coastal desert climate, generally temperate. From May to September, it can be quite cloudy and humid. We recommend wearing light but layered clothing, a light jacket for cool nights, and sunscreen, as UV rays can be strong even when it is cloudy.
  • Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, the climate in this region is more variable due to the altitude. May to September is the dry season, with sunny days and cool nights. During the day, it is between 15°C and 20°C, and at night it can drop to 0°C or below. We recommend dressing in layers, wearing warm clothes for the evenings, a good coat, hat and gloves. During the day, wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Don’t forget good sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
  • Aguas Calientes, the climate is more tropical and humid compared to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. It is advisable to bring light and breathable clothes for the day, a mackintosh or poncho due to possible rain, and comfortable and waterproof footwear. Do not forget sunscreen and insect repellent.

Fitness Requirements

  • The days in Lima mainly involve city sightseeing activities, such as walking around the city and visiting historical sites. A high level of physical activity is not required.
  • Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu require a moderate to high level of physical activity. Visits to the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Maras, Moray, and the Inca ruins near Cusco, such as Sacsayhuaman, require moderate walking. In addition, Machu Picchu involves stairs and uneven terrain. Visitors should be prepared to walk for several hours and climb stairs. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking. Take breaks as needed and do not rush.
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Moderate/Medium
Age
All Ages

Included

  • Expert personnel will assist with all transfers at arrival and departure from each location.
  • All excursions are listed in the itinerary with an English-speaking guide.
  • Entrance fees to all sites listed.
  • Hiram Bingham train from/to Machu Picchu
  • Transport in comfortable tourist vehicles
  • Breakfast is included in the suggested hotels.
  • The meals as shown.

Not Included

  • Early check-in / late check-out.
  • Flights within the country (approx. USD 220 per person, per flight)
  • Drinks during meals.
  • Meals that are not explicitly stated
  • Extras in the bar, laundry, phone, etc.
  • Guides, restaurants, hotels, and airports: Tips to help you.
  • Personal Insurance

Frecuently Asked Questions

How much luggage can I bring on the train?

The train ticket, allows the transport clients and their hand luggage (01 bag or backpack) with a weight of no more than 05kg/11lb and with a maximum size of 62 linear inches/157 cm (length + height + width), with the cars intended for this purpose. His main luggage will remain in Cusco.

What is the best time of year to make this trip?

The best time to make this trip is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During this time, you can expect clear skies, sunny days, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, the temperatures are milder, particularly in the highland areas like Cusco and Machu Picchu, making hiking and sightseeing more comfortable. However, it’s worth noting that the dry season also coincides with the peak tourist season, especially from June to August. Therefore, you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and tours during these months. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don’t mind the possibility of some rain, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April or October.

What should I pack for this trip?

For this trip, it is advisable to bring comfortable and versatile clothing that can adapt to different weather conditions and activities. Since we will be visiting different regions with varying climates, it is important to be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. Have short and long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts. Lightweight and comfortable trousers for the day. Warm clothing, such as a jumper or waterproof jacket for the rainy season, and comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, preferably with non-slip soles for uneven terrain along with a hat or cap for protection from the sun, sunglasses, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against UV rays, especially at high altitudes. Small backpack to carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and other hiking essentials along with a reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated at all times.

Additional Information
  • Documentation: Citizens of most countries can enter Peru as tourists without a visa for a specified period. However, it is important to check specific visa and passport requirements for your country of origin before traveling.
  • Currency: The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN). It is advisable to carry a combination of cash in soles and US dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist establishments, but you may find places that only accept cash, especially in rural areas.
  • Language: The official language of Peru is Spanish. However, English speakers are common in tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
  • Health and safety: It is recommended to consult a doctor before traveling to Peru for information on recommended vaccinations and preventive health measures. In terms of safety, it is important to take normal precautions as in any other tourist destination, such as taking care of your belongings and avoiding dangerous areas, especially at night.
  • Electricity: In Peru, the voltage is 220 volts and the plugs are type A, B, and C. If your electrical devices use a different voltage or have a different plug, you may need a plug adapter and/or a voltage converter.
  • Tipping: In Peru, it is common to tip in restaurants and for services such as tours and transportation. The tip amount is usually 10-15% of the total bill or a rounded amount depending on the service received.