Peru & Bolivia Highlights

Welcome to Lima, the capital of Peru overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Upon your arrival, you will be met and at the airport and transferred to Casa Republica in the bohemian neighbourhood of Barranco where you will spend two nights.

Begin your adventure by visiting the magnificent Santo Domingo Convent, a place rich in history, once transited by all the major Saints of Lima. From there, cross Lima's Main Plaza, featuring the Government and Municipal Palaces and the impressive Lima Cathedral. Next, head to the renowned Larco Museum, boasting an impressive collection of ceramic pieces depicting various aspects of ancient Peruvian life. A tasting menu and demonstration class with ceviche tasting is a particular highlight of the day.

Depart Lima for your flight to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel Nunu Boutique Hotel in the enchanting Sacred Valley where you will be staying for two nights. On our way, stop at the majestic Inca site of Pisac, perched high above the village bearing the same name then continue to the traditional Pisac market, a delightful place to explore.

Today's adventure takes us to Chinchero, a charming and picturesque town in the Sacred Valley. The journey continues to Moray, an intriguing Inca archaeological site with colossal concentric terraces, resembling a grand amphitheatre. There is also a visit to Maras, renowned for its salt mines. Indulge in a delightful lunch at the 'speak easy' styled Iskay Private Home with spectcular valley views.

Leave by train to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World - Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. The train ride will take you to this incredible ancient site, where terraces, stairways, ceremonial precincts, and urban areas will transport you back in time. After Machu Picchu travel to Cusco and the charming Quinta San Blas hotel, overlooking a charming cobbled street.

Today visit Sacsayhuamán, an impressive ceremonial fortress surrounded by beautiful landscapes in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Then, explore the Inca shrine of Qenqo, an ancient temple associated with sacrifices. Next, visit the Puca Pucará watchtower and Tambomachay, an architectural marvel and a significant part of the Andean worldview.

During an exclusive city tour, explore the artistic district of San Blas—a fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish culture. Also visit notable places like Plazoleta Nazarenas, the Cathedral with its colonial treasures, and the Koricancha, known as the Golden Temple for its lavishness.

Visit the royal precincts and gardens of Tipon, a testament to the Incas' skillful water engineering. Witness fountains and canals that continue to carry water from underground channels. The area is still revered, and ancient water-related rituals are performed here. On to the archaeological site of Pikillacta, a pre-Inca citadel with a variety of architectural structures. Finally, visit Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes" due to its wall paintings and gold leaf decorations.

Take the scenic Andean Explorer daytime train across the vast altiplano to the lakeside town of Puno, the folkloric capital of Peru overlooking Lake Titicaca. Stay at the Casa Andina Premium hotel where you will spend the night with breathtaking lake views.

Journey by bus from your hotel to the picturesque village and harbour of Copacabana. There, visit the shrine and the Dark Indian Virgin, as well as the local market. Our hydrofoil cruise will then take us to Moon Island, to visit the Sun Virgins Temple, an important sacred place on Lake Titicaca. Continue to the Sun Island, explore the Inca "Grand Stairs" and the Sacred Fountain of eternal youth and happiness. Finally, cruise to Cocotoni Bay and take a short overland drive to Huatajata. From there, journey from Huatajata to your hotel Casa Grande in La Paz where you will spend three nights.

In the morning, visit the pre-Inca civilization of Tiwanaku, known as the cradle of the Inca Empire. Here, marvel at the remains of the Kalasasaya temple, monoliths, and the Sun Gate—magnificent stone structures with intricate reliefs and figures, showcasing their splendid grandeur.

In the afternoon, explore the indigenous, colonial, and modern areas of La Paz, including the Indian Market, Witches Market, and breathtaking panoramas framed by the majestic Illimani mountain. We'll also visit the Moon Valley, a lunar like landscape resembling the face of the Moon.

Today, transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Uyuni, the gateway to the spectacular Salar de Uyuni. Kick off a fabulous experience as you first view the spectacular Salar de Uyuni. Spanning an astonishing 12,000 square kilometres, the Salar de Uyuni creates a surreal landscape where the sky and land seemingly merge, playing with your sense of perspective and imagination. You will also visit Incahuasi Island, also known as Fish Island, which is covered in cacti.

Make sure you wake up early to catch the sunrise, a real treat in this region of Bolivia. The return flight to La Paz will have you in the city by lunchtime, where you have the afternoon to explore the city, dine in world class restaurants, sample Bolivian wine or get lost in the labyrinth of street which interweave in a chaotic fashion.

After breakfast, you have the morning to do any last-minute souvenir shopping in La Paz! As your extraordinary journey comes to an end, transfer to the international airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.

As you land back in the UK, reminisce about all the incredible experiences you've had across Peru and Bolivia and start planning your next amazing adventure.