OVERVIEW

ITINERARY

Day 01 ARRIVAL – LIMA

Welcome and reception at the International Airport "Jorge Chavez, transfer to hotel. Overnight in Lima.

Day 02 COLONIAL & MODERN CITY TOUR, TRUJILLO

In the morning we start the City tour by colonial & modern Lima, where we will visit the Main Square, Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Monastery and Church of San Francisco, famous for its catacombs; colonial houses, among others. Then visit the residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro. At the end, transfer to airport to take flight to the city of Trujillo. Reception and transfer to hotel. Overnight in Trujillo.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 03 PYRAMIDS OF THE SUN AND THE MOON AT THE MOCHE VALLEY & CHAN CHAN + HUANCHACO

This day we will visit the enormous adobe constructions built by the Mochica culture in the V century, called the Temples of the Sun and Moon, with countless tombs and polychrome murals in which their deity is often printed. It is believed that both were complementary, one administrative and the other religious. Afternoon visit the impressive archaeological complex of Chan Chan, located in the Moche valley 4.5 km northwest of the center of the city of Trujillo (10 min approx.) It was religious and administrative center of the Lordship Chimu and the largest mud city of pre-Hispanic America. Then we will visit Huanchaco beach , located 13 km from Trujillo. Old fishing cove where even until now fishermen maintain the habit of fishing on Caballitos de Tortora “Totora Horses” (the traditional reed rafts of the northern coast), boats of 3-4 meters long used by the Moche and Chimu in fishing trips. Overnight in Trujillo.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 04 EL BRUJO ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE & THE LADY OF CAO/ DEPARTURE TO CHICLAYO

We visit the archaeological site "El Brujo", located to 60 kilometers from Trujillo in the Chicama Valley province Ascope. This complex is characterized by a 30 meters high adobe pyramid ; on its walls the Moche’s molded a very rich iconography, the best-known example is the "Executioner." In the afternoon departure by bus to Chiclayo, the trip takes about 03 hrs . Welcome & transfer to hotel. Overnight in Chiclayo.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 05 CHICLAYO, HUACA RAJADA - TUCUME & ROYALS TOMBS - LIMA

We will go to 33 km east of Chiclayo and 2 km south of the town of Sipan, inside the town of Pomalca where is located Huaca Rajada. Here we observed the royal cemetery. Where the tomb of the Lord of Sipan was discovered intact in August 1987. This tomb belongs to an elite character of the Moche culture (200 to 700 d. C.). Near to this tomb is located the priest's tomb discovered in 1988. The Old Lord of Sipan’s tomb , discovered in 1989 , the tomb of the warrior chief , discovered in August 1996 , the tomb of the second war chief , discovered in 1998 . All them belonging to the Mochica nobility. Then visit Túcume , the largest concentration of adobe pyramids on the northern coast of Peru , where it is located the fertile and warm “Valle de la Leche” (milk valley ) in Túcume district . This spectacular complex dates back to the years 700-2000 d. C. Formed by 26 colossal pyramids in an area of 200 hectares, has raised platforms around a sacred mountain that inspires mystery, magic and power, then we will visit the famous Royal Tombs Museum . This museum will show an overview of the Mochica’s customs, the warrior everyday life that they had. Afternoon transfer to airport to board flight back to Lima. Welcome & transfer to hotel. Overnight in Lima.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 06 LIMA, AREQUIPA - CITY TOUR + SANTA CATALINA CONVENT

In the morning transfer to airport to board flight to Arequipa. Welcome & transfer to the hotel. In the Afternoon, start the Colonial City Tour by the "White City", where we will visit the Cathedral, the Convent of Santa Catalina, beautiful convent built in the sixteenth and seventeenth century, domes and cloisters of Jesuit Church of the Company of Jesus, colonial mansions, the Main Plaza, temple and plaza of San Francisco, Yanahuara viewpoint where we have a magnificent view of the volcanoes that surround the city. Return to Hotel. Overnight in Arequipa.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 07 CANYON COLCA TOUR – AREQUIPA

After a filling breakfast, departure from Arequipa (2325 m.s.l.) towards our wonderful trip to the Colca Valley (estimated pick up time :08.00 hrs). In This scenery drive ,we will take the highway to Yura, first passing through Pampa de Arrieros and Pampa Canahuas where we will see vicuñas (smaller cousins of the llama), alpacas, viscachas (small rodents that resemble rabbits) , llamas ( South American camelids ) and migratory birds along the way. We will continue to Vizcachani where we have a panoramic view of the white Mountains; then we arrive to Pampas de Tocra , here can be seen the variety of birds like black ibis, andean duck, "guayatas", "the pajaro bobo", Andean gulls, etc. Bordering the crater, we reach Patapampa Pass ( 4,900 m.s.l.) the highest point in our journey, also known as the Volcano viewpoint of the Andes. From here we’ll see a chain of volcanoes that include Hualcahualca, Sabancalla, and Ampato, the famous volcano where the Inca mummy Juanita (viewable in Arequipa) was sacrificed over 500 years ago.
From Patapampa Pass we will descend to the town of Chivay (3646 m.s.l.), the capital of the Colca Canyon región, where beautiful pre -Columbian terraces are still cultivated by native Indian Collaguas. Arrival to Chivay at about 13:30 hrs. Time for enjoy a energetic and delicious lunch, then Transfer to hotel in Chivay. In the Afternoon you have the option to visit the Calera Hot Springs for about 2 hours. The thermal bath’s medicinal waters reach temperatures of around 40ºC (104ºF) and are wonderful for helping sooth physical ailments. (Optional for passengers staying in Chivay Only – entrance fee: s/.15.00 ($ 6.00) per person, bring your swimsuit).
In the evening you will have dinner in Chivay with entertainment provided by a traditional folk group in a local restaurant (not included – optional). Overnight Chivay.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 08 CÓNDOR CROSS– DEPARTURE TO PUNO

Very early departure to the Condor cross Viewpoint (about a 2 hour drive) considered the best viewpoint to truly appreciate the vast expanse of Colca Canyon and also the prime location for condor viewing.
Afterwards we will head back, on the way you will admire the hanging tombs of Choquetico and Litomaquetas, the Mirador of Terrazas and finally the towns of Pinchollo, Maca y Yanque with their churches and typical squares. Arrival to Chivay, change of vehicules and continue our journey to the city of Puno. On route we will visit PATAHUASI from where we will observe rock formations caused by the erosion of time, then pass by the village of Imata, where we find the stone forest Pillones which is observed from this
Village. Along this paved road we will drive through small towns, as well as a beautiful lagoon called Lagunillas, where trout farms can be seen and also Andean flamingos along with many other Andean birds feeding on the shores. We will continue the journey directly to Puno, arriving in the city at about 18:30 hrs. Welcome & transfer to hotel. Overnight in Puno.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 09 TITICACA LAKE –UROS & TAQUILE ISLANDS – PUNO

Breakfast. At the appropriate time transfer to the port to take the boat that will lead us to the artificial Island of the Uros, island located in the Titicaca Lake, the highest navigable Lake of the world. Uros Island is constructed of "Totora" a local aquatic plant, also is used by the settlers to construct their houses and to elaborate their handcrafted works. Lunch. Then we will visit Taquile's Natural Island, Andean community that preserves its form of ancient life, customs and its typical clothes. Return to the city. Overnight in Puno.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 TOURIST BUS PUNO – CUSCO

After breakfast we will initiate our trip towards the city of Cusco in tourist Bus, we will stop at the village of Pukara, this is the most important and ancient ceremonial site of the Altiplano, Tiahuanaco, Characterized by a series of raised platforms, the ruins also reveal some litho-sculptures and tombstones, all proof of a pre-Inca civilization, possibly one at the origin of the Andean culture of the Altiplano. Pukara is famous for its pre-Inca ruins, local pottery, and it’s small but fascinating museum. Following with our trip we will visit the village of The Raya that is the limit between Cusco and Puno there we can appreciate beautiful landscapes, llamas and vicuñas. Lunch in Sicuani. Then we will move to Raqchi where we will be visit the Temple of the God Wiracocha. And finally we will appreciate Andahuaylillas's city, Referred to as the Andean Sistine Chapel because of its magnificent frescoes, we can visit the famous church of the same name considered as the Chapel, we will appreciate in its interior one of the most beautiful samples of the Colonial art with its golden, wall altars, pictures and polychrome roofs. Arrival at Cusco at 5:00 pm approximately. Reception and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Cusco.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11 CUSCO: CITY TOUR + 04 RUINS

Morning at leisure. This is a good time to explore some of Cusco’s less-visited attractions including the San Pedro Market, the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, or one of many museums, such as the Museum of Pre-Colombian Art, Casa Concha, or the Choco Museum, where you can make your own chocolate from scratch. In the Afternoon we will enjoy a visit around the city and surrounding archeological sites, the visit includes the Main Square, the cathedral, Koricancha Temple, which was a military and religious center of Incas Empire dedicated to its principal god, the sun. The nearby archaeological remains of Tambomachay, Inca Baths, Puca Pucara, center of military control; Kenko Amphitheatre, evidence of mystic character from that time, and the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Return to hotel. Overnight in Cusco.
Meals included: Breakfast.

Day 12 SACRED VALLEY TOUR – DEPARTURE TO AGUAS CALIENTES

Breakfast. We will begin to the excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, here we will see the typical inca terraces and main villages like Pisac and its colorful Indian market: on the way we pass through the little towns such as Calca, Yucay, Urubamba. Then we will make a stop to have a delicious Buffet Lunch in the valley. In the afternoon, visit Ollantaytambo, an enormous Inca complex of administrative, agricultural and religious functions. Here big walls of rocks can be observed, Temples and palaces; a convenient time transfer to the train station to continue trip to Aguas Calientes, the trip takes about 2 hours. Welcome & transfer to hotel. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 13 MACHUPICCHU

Very early (05.00 hrs) you can ascend to Machu Picchu to enjoy the beautiful sunrise or if you wish and you are in good physical condition, you can climb to Huayna Picchu "Young Mountain" from where you have a spectacular view of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. At 11:00 hrs meet with your guide to take the guided tour of Machu Picchu. This citadel remained unknown for centuries until by accident in 1911 was discovered by Hiram Bingham. This Inka Center is the greatest wonders of the world. The guided archaeological site of Machu Picchu tour includes the visit through the urban area which houses the major architectural elements of the Inca city, also we will explore other important areas of this impressive citadel such as the Sun Temple, Intiwatana, group of sacred rock, temple of the three windows, the mausoleum, etc. Buffet Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge (the only hotel in the citadel) to have more time after lunch and enjoy the ruins of Machu Picchu at its fullness. By the afternoon shuttle bus down to town. Train back to Cusco. Transfer to hotel. Overnight in Cusco.
*** The program is considered entry to the citadel of Machu Picchu, if you want to climb Huayna Picchu must consider an additional $ 12.00 per person to issue a compound ticket Machupicchu + Huaynapicchu (first schedule: 07:00 – 08:00 hrs.) ***
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 14 CUSCO - LIMA

Transfer to the airport to return to Lima. Welcome & transfer to hotel. Overnight in Lima.
Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 15 LIMA - COUNTRY OF ORIGIN

Breakfast. At the appropriate time transfer to the airport to take your flight back towards your country of origin.
Meals included: Breakfast.

PRICES

PRICE PER PERSON IN AMERICAN DOLLAR

INCLUDES

In Lima:

• Transfer In, Out
• 03 Overnights in Lima + Breakfast.
• Colonial & Modern City tour

In Trujillo:

• Transfer In, Out
• Visit to archaeological site "El Brujo"
• Visit to Temples of the sun and the moon & Chan Chan + Huanchaco
• Bus ticket Trujillo/Chiclayo
• 02 Overnights in Trujillo + Breakfast.

In Chiclayo:

• Transfer In, Out
• Huaca Rajada, Tucume & Royal tombs
• 01 Overnight in Chiclayo + Breakfast.

In Arequipa:

• Transfer In, Out
• 01 Overnight in  Arequipa +
• 01 Overnight in Chivay + Breakfast
• Tour to Colca Canon 2 Days, 1 Night +02 lunches
• City Tour in Arequipa + Santa Catalina Convent
• Tourist  bus  Colca, Puno

In Puno:

• Transfer In, Out
• Touristic Bus  Cusco, Puno + Lunch
• 02 Overnights in Puno + Breakfast.
• Uros & Taquile Island tour+ Lunch

In Cusco:

• Transfer In, Out
• City tour & Ruins 
• Sacred Valley Tours + Lunch Buffet in Posada Inca Yucay
• 03 Overnights in Cusco +
• 01 Overnight in aguas calientes + Breakfast.
• Machupicchu tour in Vistadome train (SUPERIOR SERVICE) for First class and luxury categories and Expeditions  train (TURISTIC SERVICE) for Superior and Standard categories
• Lunch Buffet in Sanctuary Lodge
  • Meals According to itinerary
  • Tickets & Professional Guide
  • Shared Services (Group)
  • Personalized service.

OPTIONALS

The program does not include: (price per person)

• Admission fee to the Calera Thermal Baths in Arequipa: $ 6.00(Passengers staying at the Hotel Colca Lodge 5 * or Hotel Refugio and 4 *, do not go to La Calera because these hotels have their own thermal baths)
• Tips & extras not mentioned in the program
• AIR TICKETS TOTAL PER PERSON(TO BE ADDED TO TOUR PACKAGE): $ 390.00 VÍA TACA & STAR
  • Lima, Arequipa
  • Cusco, Lima
  • Lima/ Trujillo
  • Chiclayo, Lima

*** Airfares are subject to airline’s availability ***

NOTES

TYPES OF TRAIN TO MACHU PICCHU:

Expeditions

It is a service created just for those adventurous travelers seeking comfort and safety. The carriage feature additional space for backpacks and equipment typically require travelers for your walks. For this period 2014 these carriages also have panoramic windows.

Vistadome

These spectacular carriages have beautiful panoramic windows offering unsurpassed scenic views and a number of photo opportunities. Completely surrounded by glass, passengers feel they are part of the impressive landscape of Peru. Vistadome also offer to passengers more comfort with leather seats and extensive leg room. ADDITIONAL TO TRAVEL WITH THIS TRAIN: $ 25.00 PER PERSON

***Hotels are regulated by the International Arrival Time criteria (check in) from 13h00 and departure (check out) until 10h00. This time varies depending on the city to visit***