A 17 Night Journey Through Peru and the Amazon

One of South America's largest cities, Lima is a sizzling melting pot of cultures, its architecture spanning from pre-Columbian ruins to Spanish colonial palaces. With a vibrant nightlife scene, a vast array of historical landmarks and a centuries-old mouthwatering cuisine, Lima is certainly not to be missed.

Included in your itinerary is an immersive guided tour of Lima, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the ancient ceremonial centre of Huaca Pucllana, the Plaza de Armas of Lima and the grandiose Lima Cathedral that stands tall in the centre of the city. For those interested in the Lima's rich history, you'll also be able explore the Larco Herrera Museum, home to over 3000 years worth of history, from pre-Incan art to pre-Hispanic ceramics. 

The Amazon Rainforest should be on everybody's bucket list. Known as 'The Lungs of the Planet', the Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world and is home to 10 million species, with scientists estimating that there are still over 5 million new species yet to be discovered. Spanning across several South American countries including Brazil, Peru and Colombia, the Amazon Rainforest is a world unto itself.

During your stay in the Amazon, you'll have the chance to explore this vast biosphere with a variety of immersive excursions. All included in your itinerary, you'll be able to spot nocturnal creatures on a Twilight River Canoe Excursion, trek to the breathtaking Lake Sandoval through the Tambopata National Reserve and experience a native Amazonian farm, tasting some of the naturally grown products. For wildlife lovers, you'll have the chance to encounter a range of unique creatures, from the adorable squirrel monkeys to the lovable three-toed sloth.

Once the heart of the Incan Empire, Peru's Sacred Valley is one of the country's most visited regions, its sweeping mountain scenery and ancient ruins a gateway to another world. Home to Andean traditions and ancient temples, this remarkable landscape is simply unmissable on a holiday to Peru.

After a comfortable night in your hotel, you'll be met by your tour guide who will properly immerse you in the culture of the region. Starting in the village of Pisac, you'll visit a traditional artisan market before learning about the ruins of the world-famous Intihuatana. As well as this, during your time in the Sacred Valley you'll also visit the iconic terraces of Moray and the village of Ccorcco, whose traditional Andean weaving techniques are still used to this day. 

One of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, Machu Picchu is Peru's greatest treasure, this vast Incan 15th Century citadel like something from another world. Set up high in the Andean mountains, the scenery is simply breathtaking and is something that will definitely make your Peru holiday unforgettable!

After having some breakfast, you'll begin your hike to Machu Picchu, stopping to admire the many vibrant birds that are native to the region. As you climb higher, the scenery will transform around you and you'll soon feel like you're standing amongst the clouds with the rolling Andean mountains seeming to stretch forever towards the horizon. As you admire the iconic picture-perfect view, you'll soon descend into the ancient Incan ruins, learning about their rich history; you'll be able to explore sites such as the House of the Guardian, the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun and the Sacred Plaza! Afterwards, you'll enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, situated right beside the ruins!

Once the Imperial Capital of the Incas, Cusco is brimming with history, its historic streets speaking to the city's rich past. During your stay in the city, you'll embark on a culturally immersive Cusco City Tour, discovering sites such as the Santo Domingo Church, the Koricancha Temple, the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the Tambomachay Archeological Complex, also known as 'The Bath of the Incas'. 

As well as this, you'll also have the opportunity to embark on a journey to the mesmerising Rainbow Mountain, its vivid colours like something from another planet! As you admire the panoramic views across the Red Valley and Nevado Ausangate, you'll learn about the science behind the mountain's extraordinary colours before enjoying something to eat whilst on the mountain! 

With a reputation as being one of the deepest canyons in the world, the Colca Canyon is a mystical land of remote traditional villages, Incan agriculture terraces and the mighty Andean Condor.

On your Peru adventure, you'll head straight into this sublime wilderness, discovering the quaint Chivay Village, the pass of Tocra - a vast plain at 4,500 meters whose lakes are ideal for spotting migrant birds - and a series of mighty volcanoes such as Mismi, whose glacial stream has been confirmed as a distant source of the Amazon River. As you pass through the vast plains and valleys, make sure to look out for the region's native alpacas as they roam through this impressive environment. 

Known as Peru's 'White City', Arequipa is remarkably situated 2,380 metres above sea level, its distinct baroque buildings built using white volcanic stone. Peru's second largest city, Arequipa is cradled by 3 sublime volcanoes and is the gateway to the Andes. As well as this, the city has built up a gastronomical reputation, its culinary delights considered to be some of the best in Peru!

During your stay in Arequipa, you'll have a fascinating tour of the city, visiting sights such as the rich ochre-red convent of Santa Catalina and the 17th Century Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa. Afterwards, you'll be taken the long-established market of San Camilo to buy the ingredients for a cooking class with a local Peruvian family - you'll be able to impress your friends when you get home with your newfound Peruvian cooking skills!