The Unmissable of Peru (10D/9N)

DAY 1: WELCOME TO LIMA & VISIT THE CITY OF KINGS AND QUEENS

• Pick up from the airport at the agreed time and transfer to the hotel Casa Andina Premium. (Recommended flight arrival time: 10 am.)
• 2:00 pm: We are going to pick you up from your hotel and with our expert local guide we’ll take you to a fascinating walking tour around our historical center. It’s different as classic and unique, we will show you Palaces and castles our city hides, we are also going to take you to the great Saint Francisco Monastery and the impressive underground Catacombs!
• For sure we won’t miss the opportunity to visit the most important square in the whole country; “The Main Square (Plaza de Armas)” where you will learn together about the history of such a historic square! Beside this, you will get the best angles to photograph (from the outside) the Archbishop’s Palace, the City Hall of Lima and the Cathedral. Other great places to visit are: “San Martin Square”, “De la Union Pathway”, the lovely surrounded wooden balconies of the palaces and mansions and the highest tower (40m) in Lima that belongs to Saint Dominick Convent.
• After the tour we will take you back to your hotel.

Overnight in Lima
Meals included: none

DAY 2: LAST LITTLE WILDLIFE REFUGE & LIMA’S HIGHLIGHTS

• 9:00 am: Pick up from your hotel and transfer to the Pantanos de Villa Wildlife Refuge.
• Located just at 40 minutes from the bustling city of Lima, lies a hidden natural paradise. Come with us and let´s escape from the big city! We will take you to discover the great variety of fauna and flora that this natural reserve treasures! During your tour, you will see impressive natural lakes and learn about native and migratory birds that have made from this nature reserve their cozy home.
• Besides, in this natural reserve exists a wide variety of reeds, marsh plants, fishes, reptiles, aquatic insects, etc. Great opportunity to learn about them!
• 1:00 pm: Lunch in local restaurant. The adventure continues in the afternoon.
• 2:00 pm: We are going to pick you up from your accommodation or meeting point and with our expert local guide we’ll take you to a fascinating tour. Our first visit will be to one of the highest points of the city, located in Chorrillos district to go towards the historical “Morro Solar” (300 masl), where an outstanding view will be waiting for us and we will be able to learn about the history of this spot and Peru in general.
• The next spot to visit is the bohemian and artistic district of Barranco which is the smallest district of Lima. We will visit the “plaza”, the romantic and mysthical “Puente de los suspiros”. In addition, we will take a look at the beautiful art murals on the very small and narrow street’s walls of this traditional neighborhood.
• After Barranco, our visit will take part in the colorful and famous district of Miraflores, where we will visit the romantic “Parque Del Amor” that has a very artsy sculpture made by a well-recognized local artist called Victor Delfín and it offers a panoramic view of the Peruvian sea. Then, we go towards “Parque Kennedy” for a walk throughout the park and to have a very nice conversation about the history of such a popular place and of course, watch and pet the cats living in this park and on the trees.
• Time for food! We go to a very traditional Local market in Surquillo district, where we will learn about many products we grow and harvest in our country and also learn about the Peruvian gastronomy, We will have a fruit tasting to enjoy the native and exotic products brought from different regions of Peru (Coast, Andes and Amazon) and then, have lunch at a very local restaurant where typical and native food is prepared and it is also very visited by locals.
• After the tour we will take you back to your hotel

  Overnight in Lima
  Meals included: lunch.

DAY 3: WELCOME TO TAMBOPATA (MADRE DE DIOS)

• Transfer from the Casa Andina Premium hotel to the airport. (Recommended flight departure time: 9:00 am, make sure to arrive before 12:30 hrs.)
• 12:00 pm Arrive in Puerto Maldonado, capital of Madre de Dios, and join a 1-hour bus and a 2.5 boat journey to the lodge. Your first taste of the Amazon culinary will be in the river while you leave the city to enjoy the amazing jungle landscapes.
• Cross the confluence with the Malinowski River, leaving behind the last traces of human habitation as you enter the 700,000-hectare uninhabited core of the Tambopata National Reserve. Along the way, keep an eye out for capybaras, caimans, geese, macaws, and other large species that become increasingly frequent as you venture deeper into the reserve.
  
• Arrive at Tambopata Research Center, a boutique eco-lodge set in the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve. Enjoy comfortable accommodations ranging from 21-square-meter rooms to spacious 83-square-meter suites, all featuring private bathrooms and open windows facing the forest.
  
• Your stay includes three daily meals, tea, coffee, guided excursions and activities, refreshments upon arrival, and transfers to and from the airport. Guides are provided in small private groups with a 6:1 ratio to ensure personalized experiences.
  
• Before dinner, attend a night lecture where scientists provide insights into the ongoing projects of the Wired Amazon Program and discuss the conservation challenges they face.
• After dinner, take the opportunity to embark on a night hike, exploring the jungle under the cover of darkness. Although many mammals are active but elusive, the varied shapes and sounds of frogs are easier to observe and equally captivating.
  

Overnight in Madre de Dios
Meals included: Lunch and dinner.

DAY 4: MACAW CLAY LICK AND CANOPY TOWER

• Start your morning with a visit to the Macaw Clay Lick, one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the Amazon. Dozens of large macaws and hundreds of parrots gather on the riverbank in a raucous and colorful display. From a discreet viewing spot 50 meters from the cliff, watch as Green-winged, Scarlet, and Blue-and-gold Macaws, along with several species of smaller parrots, descend to ingest clay—a behavior that has been extensively documented and celebrated in nature publications.

Overnight in Madre de Dios
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 5 BAMBOO TRAIL AND 8 PRIMATE PROJECT

• Spend the morning exploring the Creek Trail, a distinctive terra firme forest that’s best experienced from November through March during the rainy season when the creeks are full of water. This half-day hike provides insight into the unique ecology of these creek-crossed forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and the intricate network of waterways that support the rainforest’s biodiversity.
• In the afternoon, participate in the 8 Primate Project, a hike through a five-kilometer trail in a prototypical rainforest filled with immense trees, creeks, and ponds. This trail provides excellent opportunities to observe various primate species, such as Squirrel Monkeys, Brown Capuchin Monkeys, and Spider Monkeys, as well as peccaries. The Tambopata Research Center’s strategic location within this habitat makes it an ideal spot for primate watching.

Overnight in Madre de Dios
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 6: CREEK TRAIL RAINFOREST MASTER HIKE

• Spend the morning exploring the Creek Trail, a distinctive terra firme forest that’s best experienced from November through March during the rainy season when the creeks are full of water. This half-day hike provides insight into the unique ecology of these creek-crossed forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and the intricate network of waterways that support the rainforest’s biodiversity.

  In the afternoon, embark on the Rainforest Master Hike, a longer trek that delves deeper into the forest’s incredible biodiversity. Led by knowledgeable guides, this hike reveals the hidden gems of the rainforest, including elusive canopy birds, various monkey species, and remarkable plant life, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the Amazon’s complex ecosystem.
  
  After dinner, join the Discovering New Species activity. Accompany researchers at a night light trap to explore the forest and potentially identify new species. This hands-on citizen science activity allows you to contribute directly to ongoing biodiversity research and gain a deeper appreciation of the rainforest’s vast and complex ecosystem.

Overnight in Madre de Dios
Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 7: RELAXATION, WILDLIFE ON THE RIVERBANKS AND DEPARTURE

• Enjoy a leisurely morning with breakfast and a relaxing time in the lodge’s hammocks, soaking up the last moments of tranquility in the Amazon. This is also your final chance to observe wildlife along the riverbanks as you make your way back to Puerto Maldonado. Often, animals come out as if to bid you farewell, offering a fitting end to your Amazon adventure.
  
  Your journey concludes as you depart via boat and bus for your flight. Carry with you the unforgettable memories of your exploration through the heart of the Amazon and the knowledge that your visit has directly supported the Wired Amazon program and conservation efforts in the Tambopata National Reserve.
  • The boat departs from the lodge at around 7:00 am.
  • you will be back in the city around 10:00 hrs.
  • We will leave you in the airport in Madre de Dios. If you have a later flight: You can wait at our office until the departure. Note only breakfast is included on this day.
  • Take your flight to Cusco.

  Suggested flight schedule — Madre de Dios depart (1:40pm) – Cusco arrival (2:25pm)

  Arrival in Cusco 

  • Cusco Airport Transfer: At your arrival in Cusco, we will assist you at the airport and transport to your hotel.
  • The rest of the day is free to rest in order to avoid ill effects due to the high altitude.

Suggested flight schedule: Madre de Dios depart (08:40am) – Cusco arrival (10:00am)

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO 

• Cusco Airport Transfer: At your arrival in Cusco, we will assist you at the airport and transport to your hotel.
• The rest of the day is free to rest in order to avoid ill effects due to the high altitude.

Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 8: Tour to the Sacred Valley (Pisac & Ollantaytambo) with conection to Aguas Calientes

Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 9:00 am. We embark on a journey to the Inca’s Sacred Valley, beginning in Pisac, 31 km from Cusco. The old Incan archaeological site is on the summit of a mountain. There have the chance to witness the impressive stonemasonry skill of our ancient ancestors. 

Overnight at the Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Meals Included: Lunch.
Vistadome train — Ollantaytambo (19:04) – Aguas Calientes (20:45)
We attempt to book tickets on this train. However, we may need to book an alternative service if the timetable changes or the trains are unavailable.

DAY 9: VISIT MACHU PICCHU

• 8:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up Begin your thrilling day at Machu Picchu, you’ll take a bus to the breathtaking Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,430m/7,972ft). This awe-inspiring mountaintop fortress, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, promises an unforgettable experience.
• Around 9:00 AM Your expert guide will lead you through the remarkable ruins on a 2.5-hour guided tour, uncovering the secrets of this ancient Inca city. As you wander through the town squares, marvel at the intricate stonework and climb the beautifully carved stairways that connect the terraces. Known as the world’s spiritual center, Machu Picchu offers a deep connection to the mystical energy of the Inca civilization.
• After soaking in the extraordinary beauty and history of the site, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes and enjoy some time relaxing. From 1:00 to 2:00 PM, savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day’s adventure. Then you will have time to explore the city by your own before your train departures.
• 4:43 PM – Train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco – The train will depart from Aguas Calientes, the station located near Machu Picchu. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. It offers spectacular views of the Andean landscape. During the trip, you’ll enjoy a comfortable experience with spacious seats and quality service.
• 8:23 PM – Arrival at Cusco – You will arrive at the Poroy train station, near Cusco, around 8:23 PM. From there, our professional driver will take you to your accommodation in the city, which will take around 20-30 minutes. Depending on traffic and weather conditions, you may arrive at your hotel slightly later than the estimated time.

Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco by your own.
Meals Included: Lunch.
Train Schedule – Aguas Calientes (4:43pm) – Cusco (8:23 pm).

We will always aim to book tickets on this train. However, we may need to book an alternative service if the timetable changes or the trains are unavailable.

DAY 10: COLORFUL CUSCO WALKING TOUR – FLIGHT TO LIMA

• Hotel breakfast; hotel pickup at 09:00 am. The walking tour starts in the colorful San Pedro market; there is probably no better place to witness Cusquean life. Enjoy a first-hand look at how residents live day-to-day outside the postcard perfection of Cusco’s main square. The guide explains this market’s history as its wanders through the narrow aisles laden with colorful fabrics, meals, fruit juice, bread, and shaman stalls.
• After, we visit Cusco’s main square. This busy and vibrant space marks the city’s colonial center, featuring wide stone pathways and well-kept colorful gardens.
• Afterward, we will go to Qorikancha, where Santo Domingo’s convent sits atop the ancient temple. For some unknown reason, numerous invaders were awed by the splendor of this temple when they first arrived because, according to tradition, it was fully gold-plated.
• The tour ends around 13:00.
• At 15:00, transfer from the hotel to the Cusco airport.
• This is the end of our service but if you would like to stay 1 or more days in Lima please let us know to send you the extra fee.

Meals Included: None
Suggested flight schedule: Cusco (5:30 pm) – Lima (6:50 pm)
This is the end of our service but if you would like to stay 1 or more days in Lima please let us know to send you the extra fee.

*END OF OUR SERVICES*

• From 2 people up: 3410 USD each

• All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
• Guided in Spanish and English
• Meals mentioned in the itinerary
• Complete feeding in Tambopata Research
• All river transportation in Tambopata
• All entrance fees to the mentioned places
• Lodging in hotels as well
• 24/7 advice

• International or domestic flights
• Tips
• Meals not described
• Visa or Passport procederes
• Additional nights during the trip due to flight cancellations
• Alcoholic beverages or bottled water, snacks,
• Insurance of any kind
• Laundry
• Guided in another language not described
• Souvenirs

• On Summer season; Sunblock, comfortable walking shoes and clothes, a hat, sunglasses, and water.
• On winter season; all named items plus wind jacket. and spare battery for your camera.