2025 Peru Immersion

Welcome to Peru and Lima. Upon arrival, our team will be expecting you at Lima Airport holding a sign with your name on it. Once acquainted, we’ll drive you to your hotel in Miraflores or Barranco and, on arrival, we’ll assist you while checking in. During the drive, we can address any last-minute questions you may have. 

Depending on your arrival time, we'll offer suggestions for how to make the most of your first day in the city.

Note: You'll have your driver's name and phone number before your arrival to ensure easy communication

Today, delve into Lima's culinary scene with a walking food tour in the artistic and Bohemian district of Barranco. This half-day adventure offers a taste of many iconic Peruvian dishes and drinks.

Engage with local hosts and learn to prepare famous dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sour in one of the oldest taverns in the neighborhood. The tour is not just about tasting; it's a fun, learning journey through the historical and cultural stories behind each dish.

We'll experience various flavors, including a fruit tasting, chocolate sampling, empanadas de aji de gallina, specialty coffee, lomo saltado, anticuchos, and Inca Kola. As you explore Barranco, visit notable spots like Puente de los Suspiros, Bajada de Baños, and Jade Rivera Gallery. Indulge in Peruvian-flavored ice cream, and enjoy demonstrations on making pisco sour and ceviche.

The tour also introduces us to Causa and Andean punch, enhancing our understanding of Peru's diverse culinary heritage. After this enriching experience, we will return to our hotel in the early afternoon, leaving the remainder of the day free for relaxation or further exploration at our own pace.

This morning after breakfast, our Amazon adventure begins with a flight to Iquitos, where we'll be greeted upon arrival. From here, we'll be transferred to the port and embark on a speedboat journey up the Amazon River, taking in the scenery along the way. After a three-hour ride, we'll arrive at our accommodations, where we'll have time to settle in and get acquainted with the facilities.

Later in the day, we'll set off on the Leoncito Hike, a trek that offers a close-up look at the flora of the Muyuna area. Keep your eyes peeled for the ceiba trees and local wildlife, including pygmy marmosets, tamarin monkeys, and howler monkeys with their unmistakable roar.

To end the day, we'll embark on a nighttime boat trip in search of caimans and nocturnal birds and mammals, offering an opportunity to observe the Amazon's nightlife.

Today, we'll start our day with an early breakfast before embarking on a boat trip through the lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species, including parrots, jacanas, kingfishers, herons, panguana, partridges, pigeons, cormorants, and horned screamers. As we make our way to the Amazon River, which spans one to two kilometers in width, we'll have the opportunity to spot the pink and grey river dolphins that frequent these waters. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit, as you'll have the chance to take a refreshing swim in the Amazon River.

After lunch, we'll continue our adventure by traveling to two more lakes, Purura and Corrientes. Here, we can try our hand at fishing and reel in an array of fish, including the piranha! Despite their menacing reputation, piranhas make for an exhilarating and enjoyable fishing experience – just be mindful of their razor-sharp teeth.

After dinner, we'll embark on a thrilling night walk in search of colossal frogs, known to be the preferred prey of the anaconda. Additionally, keep an eye out for various species of tarantulas that call this region home.

The historical and cultural context of the area adds depth to the adventure, enhancing the overall experience. It's a day filled with excitement, natural wonders, and unforgettable encounters with the diverse wildlife that call the Amazon region home.

Today is your final day at Muyuna Lodge. After breakfast, we'll embark on a boat trip to Casha Lake. Once we arrive, we'll have the opportunity to explore the area on foot or in canoes, depending on the river's water level.

During our exploration, look out for the bird species and monkeys that call this area home. We may also encounter other residents of the jungle. After our adventure, we'll gather for lunch, and you'll have the chance to check off all the animals you've encountered on your Animal Checklist.

Our jungle adventure will come to an end at Casha Lake, and we'll make our way back to Iquitos on a three-hour boat journey. Once here, we’ll be transferred to the airport where we catch our flight back to Lima for the night.

This morning, we will fly from Lima to Cusco where we will be greeted at the airport.

Upon our arrival, we will be driven to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is the perfect place to begin our exploration of Cusco while we acclimatize to the altitude of the Andes. 

On our way to our hotel, as we cross the mountains, we'll enjoy some inspiring views of the valley from Taray viewpoint. We'll then stop shortly to explore the picturesque, yet fairly touristy, town of Pisac before heading off the beaten path towards Cuyo Chico for a unique experience.

We'll meet Vicente Rayo from Sonidos del Ande a unique project dedicated to reviving the use of prehispanic instruments and understanding their purposes. Here, we'll participate in a sound ceremony that, guided by Vicente and his instruments, will take us back to Inca times.

After this fantastic experience, we will have the option to explore Pisac Village and even its famous Inca site. This is a magnificent example of Inca engineering with terraces, temples other stone chambers hanging on the mountain ridges.  When finished, we will continue the journey making a final stop for a nice countryside lunch at an old hacienda. After lunch, we continue to our hotel.

Today we will start our day by visiting Ollantaytambo, a village that has retained its original Inca character. We will explore the Ollantaytambo archaeological site, known for its impressive Inca stonework, and enjoy the peaceful morning before the crowds arrive in the afternoon. 

For lunch, we will taste an Andean Pachamanca. This is a special local dish using preheated stones and leaves to prepare ingredients underground, resulting in a flavorful dish of tubers, beef or lamb, and aromatic Andean herbs. 

After enjoying the Pachamanca, we will participate in making our own Elixir Andino (Andean Elixir). Using the finest Peruvian sugarcane distillate, we'll gather herbs from the on-site garden and select botanicals to create our personalized elixirs. We'll bottle our creations in a 375ml bottle, add a custom label, cork it, and seal it - a souvenir to take home and enjoy after 6 months. 

After this activity, we can choose between a short hike to the Pinkulluna viewpoint for breathtaking views or continue exploring the village's narrow alleyways and hidden spots, immersing ourselves in the local way of life. 

Are you ready for a challenge? Join us as we trek the short Inca trail to Machu Picchu, a beautiful yet moderately challenging 7-mile hike that takes you through a cloud forest that leads to the Sun Gate—the original gateway into Machu Picchu. 

We will rise and shine for an early start, as we will catch one of the first morning trains from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, where the short Inca trail begins. The exact start time will depend on the available train choices.

Upon disembarking the train, we and our guide will check in at the national park office and then cross the Urubamba River to begin the adventure. Depending on our hiking speed and interest, there are two Inca sites we can visit on our way to Machu Picchu: Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna. However, the main highlight of today is the trail itself (and the views), so there is no need to rush to try and see everything.

This trail is mostly uphill, and the first segment can take up to 4 hours. At Wiñaywayna, we can have a well-deserved rest with a little time to explore one of the most beautiful places on the Inca trail, which includes an impressive cascade that falls just next to the site.

To reach the Sun Gate from here, we must hike another 2.5 miles (4 km) through the forest. This segment is a little flatter but still has some ups and downs. The last 300 feet (100 m) includes a rather steep stone Inca stairway before being rewarded with the first glimpses of Machu Picchu from “Inti Punku”, which is the original name of the Sun Gate. The sights of the famous Inca citadel from here are breathtaking.

After another pause to enjoy the views, we will begin the final 1.2-mile (2 km) section of the hike. This is an easy downhill walk that should only take about 35 minutes. You’ll eventually reach Machu Picchu and enjoy some of the most classic views from “The Guardian's Hut”. From here, we will head to our local accommodations where we will meet up with the train travelers and get some much needed rest in order to visit the main site in the morning.

Maximum Altitude: 2732 m / 8964 ft
Minimum Altitude: 2088 m / 6850 ft
Distance Travelled: 10.79 km / 6.67 ml (to Inti Punku)
Approximate Walking Time: 7 hours

Please note: This challenging trek is OPTIONAL. If you do not wish to join, you will continue on the train and go directly to our accommodations for the night. You’ll have the rest of the afternoon to relax and explore Aguas Celientes on your own.

Early this morning, we will have a guided visit of Machu Picchu before the crowds arrive. After our visit, we'll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco. Once we arrive, we'll check in to our hotel and have the rest of the day to explore this city.

In Cusco, we can soak in the history and culture that this city has to offer. We'll have the opportunity to stroll through the streets, visit local markets, and admire the architecture that reflects both Incan and Spanish influences. Throughout the day, we'll have the chance to discover the history of Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, and learn about its significance in shaping the culture and traditions of Peru. This immersive experience will provide insight into the local way of life and the enduring legacy of the ancient Inca civilization.

In the evening, we can savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine at a local restaurant or simply sit back and take in the lively atmosphere of the city. With its blend of historical charm and modern energy, Cusco offers a captivating experience that is not to be missed.

Our day in Cusco kicks off with a culinary journey led by Seledonia or her son, both esteemed local chefs known for their charisma and expertise. Seledonia, in particular, has an inspiring story. Starting her career in Cusco's local markets, she worked her way up with dedication and now owns a beautiful restaurant in the city where our cooking class takes place. 

We'll begin the morning at San Pedro Market, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere and diverse produce. Then, we will visit Cascaparo Market, a favorite of Seledonia's, to delve deeper into the local food scene. These markets provide a sensory introduction to the ingredients fundamental to Peruvian cooking. The culinary adventure continues at Seledonia's restaurant. Here, in a hands-on cooking class, we'll learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes, experiencing the flavors and techniques that make this cuisine unique. Enjoy the dishes we've created for lunch, celebrating the rich tastes of Peru.

In the afternoon, transition to a guided tour of Cusco's historical landmarks. We’ll start with a visit to the majestic Sacsayhuaman fortress, offering breathtaking views of the city. After this, we will continue with a walking tour to absorb the rich history of iconic sites such as the Main Square and Koricancha (the Temple of the Sun).

Our journey includes a special visit to the San Francisco Church, a lesser-known site with intriguing catacombs and rooftop views over Cusco. This part of the tour offers a unique perspective on the city's colonial heritage.

This morning, we will take a day trip to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, a beautiful, hidden spot in the Vilcanota Mountain Range. It's a quieter option compared to the popular Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, offering a calmer experience with less people and an easier walk. The only catch is it's a bit further, requiring about 30 minutes more driving time.

Our adventure begins with a 3.5-hour drive from Cusco early in the morning. Starting early is key to enjoying the best weather up in the mountains. Don't forget to pack a breakfast box to keep your energy up.

When we arrive at the start of the trail, we'll take a short, easy 1.5 kilometer hike up to the stunning Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, which is 4,700 meters (15,500 feet!) above sea level. While the more well-known Vinicunca can get crowded with over 500 visitors, Palccoyo usually has around 50 visitors a day, giving us a chance to enjoy its beauty in peace. If we are up for a bit more adventure, there's a quick side path to a small stone forest. This spot offers even more incredible views of Palccoyo and the area around it.

After taking in the sights of Palccoyo, we'll head back to our transport. On the way back, we'll stop for a picnic lunch in a peaceful spot, rounding off the day nicely arriving back to Cusco in the afternoon.

Note: If you do not wish to join us on this adventure, you’ll have the day free in Cusco to explore some more on your own.

This morning, we'll be traversing the Andean high plains by private vehicle from Cusco to Puno, taking in views of Andean towns and snow-capped mountains along the way. Our knowledgeable guide will point out herds of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, adding local flavor to the journey.

Our first stop will be Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of America. We can admire the impressive Andean baroque art in the church, regardless of one's religious beliefs. Our next is a stop at Racchi, a friendly Andean community located next to the remains of a sacred Inca Temple. The temple here is thought to have been dedicated to the important deity Wiracocha. Afterward, we'll enjoy lunch at a simple but nice local restaurant along the route.

Our last stop before reaching Puno will be Pucara village, known for its handcrafts like the famous Toritos de Pucara decorations seen on Cusco rooftops. We anticipate arriving in Puno around 5:30pm. We'll be greeted and taken to our hotel on the shores of Lake Titicaca. With personalized attention and unique stops, we will immerse ourselves in the culture and scenery of the Andean highlands on this private journey.

Today's adventure begins with a visit to the Chimu community on the islands of Lake Titicaca, where we will have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the ancestral culture and traditions of the region. As we arrive at the local small pier, weather permitting, we can navigate the lake in a traditional reed kayak, experiencing the unique craftsmanship of the community firsthand.

Upon reaching the Chimu Islands, we will be welcomed by our hosts, who will share their knowledge and demonstrate the art of building reed islands. Engage in a hands-on workshop to create our own artisanal pieces, followed by a totora reed raft ride on the tranquil waters of the lake.

Our journey continues with a boat ride to the Luquina Peninsula, where a delicious lunch awaits. Afterward, we will embark on a hike along the shores of Lake Titicaca, offering views of Taquile and Amantani islands, as well as the possibility of glimpsing the Bolivian side of the lake if it's a clear day. We will follow a pre-Hispanic trail, uncovering hidden beaches and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Finally, we will return to our hotel, enriched by a day of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Lake Titicaca.

After breakfast, we will have a final visit to the intriguing site called Sillustani, This place is something entirely different from the rest of sites that the area has to offer. Located at the shores of Lake Umayo, this archaeological site is an area full of energy and mystery. Here you will see a peculiar burial sites made up of cylindrical, tower-like, tombs called Chullpas. 

Most of them were built by the Pukaras, a prehispanic civilization related to the Tiwanakus. This explains why the site is so different from others in Cusco or elsewhere in Peru. The Pukaras were eventually conquered by the Incas in the 15th century, though, and you can also see some Inca influenced buildings too. 

After our tour of Sillustani, we will continue our journey to the airport and catch our flight to Lima. From here, you can connect with your international flight home, leaving with fond memories of our Peruvian adventure!

Note: We will let you know what time this flight will arrive to Lima as soon as possible so that you can plan your international departure flight from Lima.