Luxury Peru

After a comfortable flight, you’ll land in Lima this morning. You’ll be greeted by our wonderful representatives on the ground who will whisk you straight off to your luxury hotel in the city. On the way, your guide will share plenty of tips and local knowledge on where to go and how to get the best out of your time in the city. Settle in and adjust to Peruvian time before heading out to take in the sights of Peru’s coastal capital. Enjoy a sunset drink overlooking the Pacific from one of Lima’s chic rooftop bars before perhaps enjoying an unbeatable dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants.

Today, you'll enjoy a private tour of Lima with your brilliant local guide. Head off to explore the impressive colonial architecture of the cathedral and Aliaga’s House, before visiting the Larco Museum. The museum is nestled within a beautiful 18th-century mansion and is packed to the rafters with pre-Columbian treasures. We’ve left the rest of the afternoon clear for you to do whatever takes your fancy. Spend some time soaking up the luxury of your hotel or head out to sample another of the city’s restaurants. Lima is known for having some of the very best food in all of South America after all. 

You’ll head back to the airport today for a short flight to colonial Arequipa. Peru’s ‘White City’ is famed for its elegant historic white stone centre, all set against a dramatic volcano backdrop. You’ll be met at the airport with a smile and driven to your luxurious hotel right in the heart of the city. There are some wonderful, boutique hotels, just a stone's throw away from some brilliant restaurants and the famous Plaza de Armas, we'll be sure to find the stay that's perfect for you.

Today, you’ll join your private, local guide for a walking tour of Arequipa. The city is packed full of highlights, but one of our favourites is the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery, with its peaceful ambience and labyrinth of vibrant courtyards, it’s a little oasis in the heart of the historic centre. The afternoon is yours to further explore, perhaps treat yourself to a coffee or aperitif in one of the elegant balcony cafés overlooking the Plaza de Armas.

We’ve factored in a free day for you to take things a little slower and soak up the atmosphere of the White City today. This is a holiday after all! While away the hours with a spot of people watching in one of the balcony cafes overlooking the main square, sample the local cuisine at one of the many fine restaurants here, and perhaps even indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or two. At sunset, you’ll board the luxury Belmond Andean Explorer – one of the world’s most luxurious sleeper trains – to begin your unforgettable journey across the Altiplano to Puno

This morning’s wake-up on board the train is a special one. Set your alarm early enough to watch the sunrise over Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. After a lavish and delicious breakfast on board, you’ll disembark to explore the curious floating reed islands of Uros, the traditional weaving communities on Taquile, and enjoy lunch at a private lakeside spot. You’ll return to the train in time for an indulgent afternoon tea as you journey onward to La Raya, the highest point on the Puno to Cusco route at 4338 metres above sea level.

After one last luxury breakfast on board the train, you’ll enjoy a tour of the Inca archaeological site of Raqchi and the Temple of Wiracocha, dedicated to the creator god of Andean mythology. One final ride on the Belmond and you’ll arrive in Cusco, the proud former capital of the Inca Empire. You’ll be met off the train and transferred to your luxury hotel hidden away in the historic centre, packed full of pretty plazas, intriguing boutiques and top restaurants.

Today, you’ll meet your private local guide for a half-day walking tour of the impressive city of Cusco. There’s so much to see here, with highlights including the cathedral and Coricancha, the impressive Temple of the Sun, the most important temple in the Inca Empire. This afternoon, why not sample one of the city’s fine dining restaurants or choose to take it easy, experiencing the powers of traditional Incan healing rituals at your hotel spa.  

Cusco is yours to explore at your own pace today. Take a slow and leisurely stroll through its cobbled streets, visit artisan markets or explore one of the city’s boutique museums. We’re big foodies here at HA, so we’d always recommend factoring in a cooking class to your Peru holiday, and Cusco is the perfect place to do so. Chat to us if this is something you might like to include in your luxury Peru holiday.

This morning, you’ll board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train for a truly unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley to the world wonder of Machu Picchu. Settle into the plush, 1920s-style Pullman Carriages and sip on a crisp glass of champagne before tucking into a delicious gourmet meal inspired by Peru’s finest ingredients, all accompanied by live Andean music. At the end of the journey, you'll be met by your private, expert guide ready for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead you to the quieter viewpoints and make sure you have plenty of time to absorb the magic of this bucket-list worthy spot. This evening you’ll be staying at Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel found right at the entrance to Machu Picchu. 

This morning, you’ll be the first to enter the ancient Inca citadel at dawn, thanks to Sanctuary Lodge’s unparalleled location. Take your time and go at your own pace, soaking up all of the magic and the views. If you’re keen for a slice of real adventure, you might choose to lace up your hiking boots and climb Huayna Picchu, one of the mountains that forms the impressive backdrop to Machu Picchu. Your efforts will be rewarded with some unforgettable views and photographs from the top. This afternoon, it’s time to hop on the train back to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.  

For your last full day of your luxury Peru holiday, today you’ll head off on a tour around some of the most memorable destinations in the Sacred Valley. First up is the local market at Chinchero, one of the most colourful in the Andes – we find this market much more authentic than the better-known Pisac Market, and we love that. Next up, you’ll soak up more of Peru’s history at the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. You’ll experience the warmth of Andean hospitality everywhere you go, and toast your adventure over a delicious lunch in the valley before heading back to your boutique hotel for your last night in Peru.

Today, it’s time to head back to the airport in time for your flight back to the UK. We hope you’ll be flying home with a little bit of your heart left in this incredible country, and a desire to return.