Peru in 15 Days

Your journey begins as you touch down in Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, nestled right in the heart of South America. After your flight, the adventure truly begins, with the promise of fascinating experiences, cultural treasures, and stunning landscapes ahead. Peru, nearly four times the size of Germany yet sparsely populated, presents you with the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments amidst the peaks of the Andes, colonial cities, and the mystical Machu Picchu.

Lunch is served during your flight, setting the scene for the cultural and culinary delights that await you. Once you've arrived in Lima, you’re welcomed by the bustling energy of the city. Your accommodation for the night is at the charming Casa Republica, a stylish boutique hotel nestled in the bohemian Barranco district. The hotel, set in a meticulously restored 1920s mansion, offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Explore the vibrant arts district, perhaps using one of the complimentary bicycles, or relax in the lush garden.

As the day winds down, the rooftop terrace of Casa Republica offers a perfect spot to reflect on the day's journey, with the hum of the city in the distance and the nearby Pacific coast offering a soothing backdrop. You're ready for the adventures of tomorrow.

In the morning, you depart from the bustling city of Lima, heading southward. As you journey along the iconic Panamericana, the landscape unfurls before you, transitioning between expansive sand dunes and rugged beauty, with intermittent breathtaking views of the ocean.

After about three and a half hours, you arrive in Paracas, a quaint coastal town renowned for its national park and diverse marine life. Upon arrival, take a moment to settle in and breathe deeply. Your comfortable hotel, featuring a pool and stunning ocean views, offers a perfect retreat for relaxation.

In the afternoon, you set out on a scenic drive through the Paracas National Reserve. The raw beauty of this coastal landscape is unparalleled in Peru: golden dunes, salt-crusted plains, and dramatic cliffs create a breathtaking scene.

A special highlight awaits you at Playa Roja—a beach with intensely red sand formed by volcanic rocks. In the sunlight, the beach glows in a deep, vibrant red, contrasting strikingly with the deep blue ocean—a memorable spectacle.

Not far from here, you visit the so-called "Catedral," a remarkable rock formation along the cliffs sculpted by wind and waves over millennia. The name originates from the resonant sound of waves that once echoed beneath a naturally arched passage—a unique acoustic feature that bestowed the structure with its evocative name.

As evening approaches, you return to the hotel with a wealth of new impressions, perhaps enjoying a sunset stroll along the promenade or a quiet moment by the pool as the sun slowly dips below the Pacific horizon.

Start your day in Paracas, the perfect gateway to the enchanting Ballestas Islands. Board a speedboat and set sail across the sea, where a breathtaking natural paradise awaits. With favorable weather, expect to see sea lions lounging on the rocks, pelicans gliding across the waters, and perhaps even the distinctive sight of a Galápagos penguin or a curious dolphin playing beside your boat.

Back on land, another highlight beckons: the elegant Viñas Queirolo, your home for the night. At this exquisite vineyard, delve into Peru’s rich pisco culture with a guided tasting tour. Sample various types of this national spirit and soak in the vineyard's serene atmosphere, surrounded by endless rows of grapevines.

Nearby lies the mysterious Huacachina Oasis, nestled among golden sand dunes. The lagoon, fringed by swaying palm trees, offers a striking contrast to bustling cities, almost like a magical escape. A climb to the top of one of the surrounding dunes reveals a panoramic view of the desert, with the sand glowing in the warm light as the sun begins its descent—creating memories that stay with you.

As the day winds down, unwind back at the vineyard, perhaps with a glass of local wine on the terrace, under the clear starry sky of Peru's coastal desert.

After a restful night and a hearty breakfast overlooking the vineyards, you prepare for your journey to Nazca.

From the viewing platform, you catch sight of two of the famous Nazca Lines, etched into the sand for thousands of years. German researcher Dr. Maria Reiche devoted her life to studying these geoglyphs. Was her theory that they might be a giant calendar closer to the truth than many believe? Many figures can only be fully appreciated from the air, so you'll embark on a scenic flight over these impressive Nazca Lines, stretching across square kilometers of landscape. Perhaps afterward, you'll have your own theory about the origins of the lines.

If you prefer to stay grounded, explore the Nazca culture in another way. At the over 1000-year-old Chauchilla Cemetery, you'll gain fascinating insights into the burial rituals of the time, thanks to remarkably well-preserved mummies and grave goods.

Today's cultural and culinary highlight awaits: participate in a traditional Pachamanca—a festive earth oven meal dating back to the Incas. Meat, potatoes, corn, and aromatic herbs are cooked together over hot stones—a ceremony that not only delights the palate but also offers deep insights into the Andes' connection to Pachamama, Mother Earth.

Later in the evening, you bid farewell to Nazca. With new impressions and a pleasantly full stomach, you settle into the night bus. As the desert landscape passes by, you head south towards your next destination: Arequipa, the white city at the foot of the volcanoes. Another exciting chapter of your journey begins.

Arequipa greets you with its unique charm: the soft light caressing the walls of light volcanic stone, the silent watch of the surrounding volcanoes, and a hint of fresh baking in the clear air wafting through the streets.

After the night journey, you arrive in the white city early in the morning, welcomed with a delightful breakfast. You'll have time to unwind and rejuvenate as your room is already prepared for you, offering a perfect spot for relaxation or catching up on a few hours of sleep.

In the afternoon, we're off to explore once again, with a visit to the San Camilo Market, the bustling heart of the city. Here, Arequipa's vibrant life unfolds: stalls piled high with exotic fruits, the air rich with the scent of herbs and spices, and the resonant chatter and laughter filling the market hall. As you wander through the rows, you let yourself be carried along, perhaps discovering your new favorite fruit among the bounty. A sensual introduction to this exceptional city, which still holds many stories for you to uncover.

As the day begins in Arequipa, the soft morning light warmly illuminates the city’s white volcanic stone walls. The majestic volcanoes, Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, stand watch over the city, offering a breathtaking backdrop. The air is crisp, infused with the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread drifting through the narrow streets.

In the heart of the city, the bustling Plaza de Armas comes alive beneath the graceful palm trees. Locals sip coffee under the shade of colonial arcades while the impressive Arequipa Cathedral presides over the scene, a testament to the city’s historical grandeur. Yet, just a short walk away, the vibrant streets give way to a serene oasis.

Stepping into the Colourful Santa Catalina Monastery, time seems to slow down. The monastery's vivid ochre and indigo walls embrace visitors with their warmth, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. Once a home for nuns living in seclusion for nearly three centuries, this sacred space remains a peaceful refuge. Wandering through its labyrinth of intimate courtyards, chapels, and simple living quarters, each corner offers its unique charm. The simplicity of the architecture is profound, echoing stories of devotion and spiritual life behind the monastery’s sturdy walls. As you explore, you realize this is more than just a monastery; it is a miniature city within a city, a haven of contemplation that continues to captivate all who visit.

Returning to Arequipa’s lively streets, the day winds down with a view of the glowing Misti or perhaps a refreshing glass of local Pisco on a rooftop terrace, savoring the blend of vibrant and serene Arequipa.

After breakfast, you embark on your next adventure. Today, your destination is the world's second deepest canyon, the Colca Canyon, with over 3,000 meters of astounding depth. Standing on the surrounding rocks, the spatial distance seems to disappear.

Leaving Arequipa behind, you might make a special stop at the outskirts, visiting San Juan Apostol school, supported by Viventura. Immerse yourself briefly in the Peruvian children's school life and witness the significant difference a small donation can make in this region.

With a mixture of awe and excitement, you continue your journey towards your main destination, passing the majestic volcanoes Chachani and Misti. In the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, you might spot vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing and frolicking on the plains. At the highest point of your journey, at 4,910 meters above sea level, you take a breath of the thin mountain air. The stop at Patapampa Pass offers a physical and emotional highlight, with the view of the surrounding volcanoes rewarding your efforts.

A spectacular road guides you down into the Colca Valley, where the town of Chivay sits at a more comfortable 3,650 meters above sea level.

In the hotel's natural hot springs, relax with a rejuvenating bath, sharing the moment with fellow travelers you've grown fond of.

School visit note: The school visit is only possible during class times and cannot always be guaranteed.

As dawn breaks over Chivay, you set off with anticipation to the Cruz del Condor. This early start increases your chances of witnessing the majestic Andean condor take to the skies. As you stand on the viewing platform at the edge of the Colca Canyon, you'll admire these magnificent birds with wingspans reaching up to 3 meters, soaring gracefully against the dramatic backdrop. The morning light casts a golden hue over the canyon, a sight unforgettable.

Continuing your journey, you'll stop at several lookout points to savor the landscape's beauty, capturing moments with your camera. In quaint Andean villages, you have the opportunity to sample seasonal fruits that reflect the region's rich bounty.

As the day progresses, the expansive landscapes unfold before you, the air turning crisp and invigorating. You pass herds of alpacas and vicuñas grazing across the highland plains, untouched by time.

Upon reaching the shores of the legendary Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, you arrive in the bustling city of Puno. Here, you transition from land to water, boarding a boat to explore the famed Floating Uros Islands.

Crafted meticulously from totora reeds, these islands present a unique way of life. Despite their traditional roots, you won't sacrifice comfort. You'll stay in a cozy room at Uros Lake House, with stunning views of the lake. As the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, the gentle lapping of water against the reeds serenades you. This enchanting destination leaves you filled with awe and a sense of discovery.

In the morning, you set out on a boat across the enchanting waters of Lake Titicaca. The air is crisp, and the light dances softly across the surface. For those interested, try your hand at fishing, accompanied only by the gentle lapping of the lake and a friendly smile from your hosts. Afterwards, it's time to breathe deeply. Relax on the Uros Islands, letting your gaze drift over the water or watching life unfold among the reeds, boats, and huts.

For lunch, enjoy a freshly prepared meal: fish with simple vegetables and corn. The flavors echo the lake, sun, and time itself. Your day is tranquil, marked by the rhythm of the Uros and the gentle sway of the water.

Later, delve into the world of totora reeds, omnipresent here. Learn how they are harvested, layered, and renewed—a technique passed down through generations. The floating islands themselves are crafted from totora, as are houses, roofs, boats, even tea is brewed from it. A versatile natural material that underpins everything here.

Dinner is also included, lovingly prepared by your hosts on the island. An evening full of good food, laughter, and stories, creating connections that linger.

In the morning, you board the sunlit Titicaca-Andean train for a remarkable journey through the Altiplano, crossing the Vilcanota Massif with its vividly striped rock formations. As the snow-capped peaks emerge on the horizon, the panorama invites both dream and awe.

Around noon, you reach the La Raya Pass at 4,323 meters, offering expansive views. The fresh Andean air fills your lungs, providing a sense of freedom and exhilaration.

Aboard, you indulge in a delicious three-course meal, enchanted by the scenery and a performance of traditional Andean dances. And what better accompaniment than a classic Pisco Sour?

By afternoon, you arrive at the legendary Incan capital of Cusco, nestled at 3,400 meters. After settling into your hotel, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming city center, letting the day's varied impressions linger during dinner at one of the many delightful local restaurants.

Cusco – the heart of the former Inca Empire – is brimming with secrets and archaeological treasures. On your guided tour, you sense how the past is still vibrant here. High above the city towers the impressive Ruins of Sacsayhuamán, where massive stone blocks fit seamlessly together—so precisely that not even a sheet of paper fits between them. How did the Incas achieve this? Your guide shares insights and stories that bring this ancient fortress to life.

But this is just the beginning of your journey into the world of the Incas. At the Ruins of Q'enco with their ceremonial altars, and the stone water channels of Tambomachay, once serving as Inca baths, you explore the spiritual and everyday significance of these sites.

Back in the city, you stroll to one of South America's most famous stones: the twelve-angled stone, expertly integrated into the wall of a former Inca palace—a perfect example of the sophistication of this high civilization's architecture.

At the Sun Temple Coricancha, the scene shifts. Once the holiest site of the Incas, it was destroyed by the Spanish conquerors to build the Church of Santo Domingo on its foundations. Cusco's history is one of contrasts—and you stand right in the middle of it.

As golden light bathes the Plaza de Armas in the evening, you feel the special magic of this city, an atmosphere between past and present that will linger with you.

As morning breaks, you depart the vibrant city of Cuzco and venture into the picturesque Sacred Valley. This enchanting region holds the keys to Peru's rich tapestry of Inca history. Your first stop is Chinchero, a quaint village perched at 3,800 meters altitude. Known for its colorful textile market, you can witness the intricate and time-honored art of weaving still practiced today. The ancient foundations here whisper tales of once being the summer retreat for Inca royalty.

Journeying onward, you arrive at the mesmerizing Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of glistening salt ponds spread like a white carpet over the mountainside. Here, you observe a tradition unchanged since the Inca era, as local families harvest "white gold" from these age-old terraced pools.

Next, you explore the intriguing Moray, with its concentric terraces descending into the earth. This place served as an agricultural laboratory for the Incas, showcasing their advanced understanding of climate and crop adaptation.

Arriving in Ollantaytambo, you walk through its meticulously planned streets, feeling the pulse of a living Inca town. The imposing fortress rests majestically above, offering insights into the strategic brilliance of Inca architecture during the battles against the conquistadors. Capture the undeniable charm as you meander through narrow alleyways and contemplate the scenes of everyday life that unfold before the backdrop of ancient marvels.

As the day draws to a close, you board the panoramically-visioned train towards Aguas Calientes. The landscape transforms from Andean peaks to the lush beginnings of the cloud forest, painting a rich canvas of nature's diversity and setting the stage for your upcoming Machu Picchu adventure.

In the early morning, embark on a journey to one of the world's greatest wonders: Machu Picchu. A short bus ride winds through switchback roads until the majestic ruins suddenly emerge before you. As the first rays of sunlight bathe the ancient Inca walls in a golden glow, you step into the site and immediately sense the place's magic. Your experienced guide leads you through the citadel, showcasing impressive temples, terraces, and palaces while sharing fascinating stories of the myths and mysteries of the Incas. The view of the surrounding mountains and the deep valley of the Urubamba River enhances the feeling of being in an extraordinary place. Take a moment every now and then to take in the unforgettable beauty of Machu Picchu. Later, return by bus along a winding road to Aguas Calientes.

For those eager to climb the nearby Huayna Picchu Mountain, you can opt for this moderate hike with approximately a 45-minute ascent. Speak to your travel advisor if you're interested.

In the afternoon, travel by train to Ollantaytambo, relaxing in your seat as the stunning landscape of the Sacred Valley unfolds outside your window.

In the evening, a special culinary experience awaits. Start with a Pisco Sour workshop, where you mix your own cocktail. Followed by a multi-course tasting menu that surprises with creative flavors and refined combinations. Even guinea pig is on the menu — but would you recognize it at first sight? A delectable conclusion to celebrate the farewell to this amazing country with your travel companions.

We strive to secure early morning entrance tickets for our groups and on the classic route through the citadel. Due to limited availability, especially during peak season, early booking is highly recommended.

As the day dawns in Cuzco, you savor your final breakfast amidst the charming ambiance of this rich cultural city. The buzz of the morning market fills the air, a gentle reminder of the vibrant life you’ve been a part of over the past days. After breakfast, you board a private bus to the airport, your mind filled with memories of Peru's captivating landscapes and vibrant traditions.

Aboard your flight, headed back to London, you have the perfect opportunity to reflect on your journey. The sound of the engines hums a soothing tune as you glance out the window, watching the vast, changing terrain below—a testament to the wonders you’ve witnessed in this magnificent part of the world.

With a heart full of stories and a spirit energized by new experiences, you look forward to returning home, dreaming already of your next adventure.