This morning, you will embark on a guided city tour of Lima’s historic downtown, beginning with a visit to the Main Plaza and the surrounding monuments: the Cathedral, built in 1534 and an architectural masterpiece; the Presidential Palace, where the soldiers guarding the palace offer an excellent photo opportunity; the Archbishop’s Palace, City Hall, the Desamparados train station, and the Moorish-style houses and balconies along Lima’s old streets.

The historical centre of Lima, otherwise known as ‘The City of Kings’, dates back to 1535, when it was founded by Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro. Today the area is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, encompassing several notable monuments such as the Archbishop’s Palace, the Cathedral and La Merced Church.

Casa Aliaga House, is a beautiful colonial house built in 1535 for Jerónimo de Aliaga, one of Pizarro’s followers, and which has been occupied by 16 generations of his descendants.

A grand residence that has been home to the Aliaga family since their ancestors built it in 1535, Casa Aliaga is said to be the oldest colonial mansion in Peru, and possibly the whole of South America. Visiting hours are between 09h30 and 17h00 daily. Private tours are available by arrangement, and visitors who book ahead can even enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the exquisite 17th-century setting.

After this visit, you will continue to the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum (Museo Arqueologico Rafael Larco Herrera), founded in 1926, is the world's largest private collection of pre-Columbian art, with an astonishing array of gold, silver, semi-precious stones and textiles. The collection's predominant strength is in Mochica ceramics, from the north coast of Peru, of which the erotic ones are the most famous. Their notoriety ought not to obscure the fact that the museum presents a complete view of the cultural development of ancient Peru through a selection of its 45,000 pieces, housed in a colonial building of the 18th century.

The Larco Herrera Museum offers an introduction to pre-Incan cultures that emerged in Peru’s northern region. The museum contains a priceless collection of ancient pre-Columbian artifacts, including some of South America's finest pre-Inca erotic pottery.

Lunch is included at Cafe del Museo.

The gorgeous city of Arequipa is a perfect blend of ancient architectural treasures and modern buildings, blessed with an average of 300 days of sunny weather a year. It is also known as ‘The White City’ – a nickname that stems from its numerous white buildings, which form a striking contrast with the green surroundings. It is Peru’s most elegant city and the best place to visit if you’re a foodie on the hunt for fine dining opportunities, with an array of fabulous restaurants offering spicy local specialities such as rocoto relleno, chupe de Camarones and ocopa. This city has an illustrious history and its distinctive traditions make it a truly unique Peruvian destination.

Transfer to the airport. Flight to Arequipa

Upon your arrival to Arequipa transfer to your hotel and, at a scheduled time start your tour.

This morning or afternoon you will visit the Colonial District of Yanahuara, famous for its churches built in an Andalucian style and its Viewpoint. The Viewpoint of Carmen Alto with its beautiful landscape. Then proceed to Visit the Neighborhood of San Lázaro where Arequipa was founded, the Church of San Francisco with its beautiful plaza that dates back to the XVIII century, then continue to the Main Square, which has a beautiful architecture, surrounded by sillar arcs, the façade of the Cathedral, the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, founded in the XVII century by the Jesuits, renowned by its Cloisters. Then Santa Catalina Monastery will be visited, which is the most important and impressive religious monument in Perú, founded in 1579.

A Cathedral within a Museum. The dim light that enters through the stained glass and the cloistered windows maintain a mystic atmosphere in the Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa, which captures and invites to meditation an admiration. In the heart of Arequipa, in the Cathedral valuable pieces of art and culture shine for Peru, which reflects the beauty of its Catholic faith.

Since the foundation of Arequipa, on August 15th, 1540, the holiday of the Assumption of the Virgin, a cross marked the place where the Cathedral Basilica would be. Thus, the history of the Catholic Church has gone hand in hand with the history of the city. This is why the Museum of the Cathedral is the most important and traditional museum of Arequipa. In it, there are pieces that talk to the present about this history of over 400 years and of the growth of a city in the light of its faith.

Casa Andina Select Arequipa is the third hotel of the chain in the city. The hotel is located in front of the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) in the historic center of the city. With 58 rooms on a totally remodelled 5 story building, it features a modern and functional design, the hotel is a great choice for travellers that value efficiency and service.

2 Nights

Casa Andina Premium Arequipa was built on what used to be the “Casa de la Moneda” (Mint House), a national historic landmark. Originally built in 1550, the house was remodelled in 1794, and after a long restoration process finally again in 2007 it became the marvellous hotel that we know today. This last remodelling process revealed gold leaf murals, reliefs, and a beautiful chapel that had been hidden for years. The strategic location, infrastructure and services that the hotel offers allow you to experience the history, culture and gastronomy of the “Ciudad Blanca” (White City) like no other place.

After breakfast we will embark on the sillar route.

On this tour you will discover the sillar. The sillar is white lava stone from the volcanoes whose special shine has given this city the name of ' White City'.

The Sillar Route is one of the greatest attractions of the region. The visit includes walks to the quarries of Añashuayco, Cortadores and Culebrillas, located on the outskirts of the city.

After the tour you will have lunch at a typical "picantería" in Arequipa.

Located in Arequipa, Peru, La Nueva Palomino is a restaurant that provides guests with an unbeatable dining experience. The menu features traditional Peruvian cuisine that has been carefully prepared using only the freshest ingredients. From classic dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado to unique creations like churrasco de Pollo and ají de Gallina. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, highlighting bottles from around the globe.

The town of Chivay is located in southern Peru. This popular destination is one of the most accessible within the worldrenowned trekking area of Canon del Colca (the Colca Canyon), and offers some excellent cultural sights and outdoor activities. Begin at the stone Inca Bridge, which spans the Colca Ravine, and then visit the attractive Temple Santiago Apostol de Coporaque, before relaxing in the cafe-lined Plaza de Armas de Chivay. Nature lovers will relish the Astronomical Observatory, with brilliant views of the Milky Way available in the pollution-free valley, as well as the Andean condor-spotting area of Cruz del Condor. Finally, Hot Springs La Calera offers rejuvenating waters and a range of spa treatments, and further expeditions into the Colca Canyon (such as Tuti, Sibay and Callalli) are easily arranged from Chivay.

This morning you will be met by your guide to continue by shared vehicle on a scenic drive to Colca, approximately five hours outside Arequipa. A winding road leaves the city and crosses the slopes of the snow-capped Misti, Chachani and Ampato volcanoes and finally arriving at one of the most beautiful places on earth: the Colca Canyon. Local geologists claim that Colca, with chasms that can measure up to 11,000 feet top to bottom, is the world’s deepest canyon. The valley has beautiful pre-Columbian terraces that are still farmed by native collaguas. The terraces might remind you of Asian terraced farming.

Explore the region and perhaps you will see Andean condors soaring in the valley as you gaze down to the river below from the various look-out points.

The spectacular Colca Valley is famous for its dramatic scenery – rolling mountain folds that plunge into the depths of the Colca Canyon, through which the Colca River runs for some 50 kilometres, passing ancient Spanish villages where women still dress in traditional Andean garb. The residents of this valley are the descendants of the Cabana- Quechua valley people and the Collagua, a pre-Inca highland tribe known for their impressive textile art and stone carvings. Highlights of the region include visits to the valley’s various colonial churches, horseback tours and condor spotting expeditions.

Casa Andina Classic Colca is located in the Colca Valley, 3 hours from the city of Arequipa. It is a rustic, relaxed and intimate hotel. There are 52 hotel rooms, raised by way of stone cottages with thatched roofs and tile floors. Some newly built, feature hardwood floors and tile roofs. Among the services on offer are: internet service center, WIFI network is available in public areas and massage service. Casa Andina Classic Colca has a planetarium. Daily presentations in English and Spanish will enable visitors to learn more about the stars and constellations, and take advantage of the spectacular view of Colca sky.1 Night

1 Night

Aranwa Pueblito Encantado del Colca is a pet-friendly hotel located in the district of Coporaque, on the banks of the Colca River. Accommodation consists of 41 rooms, each equipped with Wi-Fi access, a telephone, minibar, hairdryer and an in-room safe. The chalets are built to offer maximum relaxation and privacy. In addition, they have a bedroom and a living room, where guests can sit and enjoy the fantastic view of the Colca Valley. Guests can enjoy dining at the onsite restaurant, unwind with a refreshing drink at the bar or stay in and take advantage of the room service. Additional amenities include a business centre, library, board games room, onsite parking and an outdoor swimming pool. There is also a spa offering a range of massage and beauty treatments

Set on the shores of glistening Lake Titicaca, on the Altiplano of Peru, this large city is dubbed the ‘folklore capital' of the country, well known for its traditional music and dance. It is also famous for its incredible collection of floating islands - man-made islands created from reeds, which exhibit the unique survivalist culture that has been alive here since pre-Incan times. Other highlights include visits to the atmospheric, historical Church of San Pedro, the gorgeous Sistine Chapel of the Americas, and a stroll along the boardwalk on the shoreline of Lake Titicaca. Active types should take on the challenge to climb up the 700 steps to the Kuntur Wasi viewpoint, which is presided over by a massive metal condor sculpture, for the reward of breathtaking vistas across the city and Lake Titicaca beyond

Early this morning departs for the Condor Cross, a location at which you will have an opportunity to observe these magnificent birds as they glide over the canyon and around mountain peaks.

Then, you will be driven to Puno with visit Sillustani on route.

The spectacular Colca Valley is famous for its dramatic scenery – rolling mountain folds that plunge into the depths of the Colca Canyon, through which the Colca River runs for some 50 kilometres, passing ancient Spanish villages where women still dress in traditional Andean garb. The residents of this valley are the descendants of the Cabana- Quechua valley people and the Collagua, a pre-Inca highland tribe known for their impressive textile art and stone carvings. Highlights of the region include visits to the valley’s various colonial churches, horseback tours and condor spotting expeditions.

This pre-Incan burial ground on the shores of Lake Umayo offers a fascinating glimpse into a riveting period of history. The site is peppered with ruins of chullpas – cylindrical funeral towers that were built as sepulchres where members of the nobility were buried, along with their possessions.

Casa Andina Premium Puno is located on the shores of Lake Titicaca in Peru. Accommodation consists of a variety of guest rooms, each equipped with internet access, a bathroom with a tub, hairdryer, a safety deposit box and a private balcony. Guests can enjoy a variety of traditional Peruvian cuisines at the on-site restaurant. Other amenities offered include a lobby bar and internet access.

2 Nights

Located on a private island, the island Esteves, GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca offers travellers sunrises and unforgettable sunsets from anywhere in the hotel, with majestic views of Lake Titicaca. From the private pier to ancestral islands to share traditions, customs, and craftsmanship with the inhabitants of the world's highest navigable lake.

The hotel is 45 minutes from Manco Capac airport and has 123 rooms. During a stay, guests can make use of the business centre, relax in the wellness and relaxation area, buy souvenirs, take pictures from the gazebo or play billiards in the games room. The restaurant offers international dishes Uros merged with the main ingredients of the region; always with a wonderful view of the lake. In the evening, enjoy a "sour coke" in Taquile bar.

Once called the ‘Navel of the World’ by the Incas, Cuzco remains a city that blends colonial Spanish charm with older, more austere remains of pre-Columbian glory – one can still see the foundations of Inca structures on many of its city streets today. Cuzco’s most important landmarks include sites from both Inca and colonial times, such as the Korikancha (the ancient Temple of the Sun), the Inca street of Loreto with its 12-cornered stones, the cathedral, the Museum of Colonial Art, the archaeological park of Saqsaywaman (the fortress-temple), the nearby funerary shrines of Kenqo, and the water-worship site of Tambomachay.

Breakfast at the hotel.

After breakfast transferred to the bus station to take your bus to Cusco. We depart to Cusco by bus. On the route we will enjoy the natural scenary and will visit the Pucara pyramids, La Raya, the Raqchi Temple and the colonial town of Andahuaylillas. Upon your arrival transfer to the hotel.

Sonesta Hotel Cusco is located just an 8-minute drive away from the Velasco Astete Airport, and a few blocks from the Main Square. The hotel offers guests quick access to the train station and major tourist attractions such as the Koricancha Palace and Sacsayhuaman. Accommodation is provided in Standard Single Rooms, Standard Matrimonial Rooms, Standard Twin Rooms, Executive Twin Rooms, and Executive Matrimonial Rooms. Facilities and services available to guests staying at the hotel include airport pick-up, free Wi-Fi, the on-site Mamaji restaurant, room service, event rooms, and laundry facilities.

1 Night

Casa Andina Premium Cusco is a beautiful 17th-century mansion located just 5 minutes from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco and a few steps from the city's main tourist attractions. Accommodation consists of 93 spacious guest rooms and suites, each equipped with air conditioning, a television, minibar and an in-room safe. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, unwinding with a refreshing drink at the bar, or staying in and taking advantage of the room service. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi access and a 24-hour reception. Massage services are also available.

Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning visit on route to Sacred Valley Awanacancha, which is a weaving center with the goal to keep alive the traditional textile arts. Here you can see four members of the cameloid family - llama, alpacas, vicunas and guanacos; learn about the harvesting of the different wools and the natural dying techniques and have a chance to see native weavers from different areas showing their different weaving styles and dresses.

This morning visit the local village of Pisac, famous for its colorful market which attracts tourists from all over the world to try their hand at bartering for local sweaters, ponchos, wall hangings, jewellery and goods.

Pisac is a picturesque Andean Village, typical except for the huge, spreading pisonary tree that dominates the central square. Most people visit Pisac to see the market on Sunday, and despite its popularity, the market retains much of its local charm; villagers from miles around gather to barter and sell their produce.

In the tourist section of the market, a wide variety of handicrafts can be purchased, such as the local ceramics including a huge and varied collection of hand-painted multi-coloured beads. There are smaller markets in Pisac on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

After visiting the village, you will have the opportunity to do a short hike to the ruins above the town. Here, you will see some fantastic Inca remains, including ritual baths fed by aqueducts and one of the largest known Inca cemeteries. The precision with which the relatively small stones in this site must have been cut is astonishing: in fact, it has been said that in some respects the stonemasonry here is even more awesome than that of the more famous ruins in Machu Picchu.

Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, a one-hour drive from the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. The Posada is a former 18th century colonial-style monastery and is surrounded by lush gardens. The hotel has 87 guest rooms each containing a television, individual climate control, direct-dial telephone for domestic and international calls, and a safe. Several services and facilities offered at Sonesta Posadas del Inca Yucay include room service, laundry service, internet access and assistance with tours and travelling. For dining and entertainment, the hotel restaurant, Inkafé Plaza, serves a variety of traditional Novoandean dishes and international cuisine. Also found on the hotel grounds are souvenir shops and Andean markets.

2 Nights

Located in the Sacred Valley of Cusco, Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado Hotel and Villas is ideally situated for easy access to the valley's attractions and incomparable Inca ruins, including the world-famous Machu Picchu. Accommodation consists of spacious rooms, suites and villas, each equipped with tea and coffee-making facilities, a television, a minibar, a desk and an in-room safe. Guests can enjoy dining at the onsite restaurant, unwind with a refreshing drink at the bar, or stay in and take advantage of the room service. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi access, luggage storage, onsite parking and an event room. There is also a Jacuzzi and a spa offering a range of massage treatments.

Morning departure from your hotel with a scenic drive to the agricultural terrace of Moray. You will explore the experimental Inca terraces.

You will be driven to the salt panes of Maras. The town of Maras is best known for its salt mines, which have been exploited since Inca times; this arrangement of terraces filled with hot spring waters contain an astonishing percentage of salt. It is a thing of great beauty and an unforgettable experience to see the sun reflected on the hundreds of white salt pools.

The town of Maras is best known for its salt mines, which have been exploited since Inca times; this arrangement of terraces filled with hot spring waters contain an astonishing percentage of salt. It is a thing of great beauty and an unforgettable experience to see the sun reflected on the hundreds of white salt pools.

Lunch at Wayra restaurant. The Wayra restaurant offers the unique opportunity to see a Paso Horse demonstration. These Peruvian horses, with their elegance and noble spirit, symbolize a centuries-old tradition of cultural fusion and folklore that defines and enriches Peru.

In the afternoon, visit to the massive fortress of Ollantaytambo, a formidable stone structure that climbs massive terraces to the top of a peak, was the valley’s main defense against the Antis and was the site of the Incas’ greatest victory against the Spanish during the wars of conquest.

Within the quaint streets of present-day Ollantaytambo is an Inca fortress that was built to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it from possible invasion from the jungle tribes.

Later the Citadel of Ollantaytambo, was the scene of the Inca resistance against the troops of Hernando Pizarro. This gigantic agricultural, administrative, religious and social complex is located 97 km from Cusco and includes a temple, platforms and an urban area.

We can distinguish two areas: one called "Araqama Ayllu", an area linked to ritual and sacred activities, and the second "Qosqo Ayllu", dedicated to housing. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center, which probably also fulfilled military functions, as indicated by its walls and towers. There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts.

The town of Ollantaytambo is called a "Living Inca Town", because its people maintain ancient customs and traditions.

Perched high up in the Andes, Machu Picchu Pueblo is a riverside town known for its proximity to the famous Machu Picchu ruins. This cloud-forest town is encircled by towering forested cliffs and boasts an endless array of hotels, restaurants, markets and labyrinthine streets. Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes, serves as an excellent base to explore the renowned ancient archaeological site of Machu Picchu. Visitors can enjoy various other activities, including having a relaxing massage after a long day of exploring, taking a stroll through lush rainforest to the Mandor Waterfalls, embarking on an adventurous hike up the Putucusi Mountain or soaking in the relaxing thermal baths with the Andes as your backdrop. Don’t miss the Machu Picchu Museum and Botanical Gardens, displaying the area’s history and diversity of indigenous flora.

Transfer to the train station to take the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes. Arrival and transfer to bus station.

PeruRail Vistadome offers a unique and different way to travel to Machu Picchu. Each train carriage features panoramic windows, enabling visitors to feel part of their surroundings. Also, on the return trip, visitors can enjoy fashion shows in their carriage featuring authentic baby alpaca wool collection with the exclusive trends in alpaca apparel.

Visit to Machu Picchu, the impressive Inca citadel located 113 Km. from Cusco at 2400 meters above sea level. This complex has several stone constructions that leave the tourist breathless because of the amazing design. Accompanied by your guide, explore the city's ruins, and feel its pulse as you visualize the lives of the priests, craftsmen, and servants who inhabited this seemingly uninhabitable citadel. Excavations at the site have revealed skeletons, artifacts and woolen clothing, but no gold. The same precision of assembled stones exists here as in other Incan sites. Overlooking the raging Urubamba River and discovered in a hidden tangle of vines and trees atop the mountain, the city of Machu Picchu will forever hold the secret of its destruction - the Incas left no written record.

Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge restaurant.

In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes.

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant.

Step into the smart, contemporary and cozy confines of El MaPi, amidst the hustle and bustle of Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes), where you can admire and interact with the quaint folksy town and glimpse a peculiar perspective. Discover an efficient, lively and people-friendly atmosphere; you are welcomed along with other global guests expecting an unfussy, down-to-earth break. Relax in a pleasant and wholesome ambience after your enlightening visit to Peru’s most distinguished destination, the Machu Picchu Archaeological site. El MaPi offers cozy and serene accommodation in Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes), incorporating stylish, casual design with the essential comforts. With simple, functional concept in mind, our rooms have eco-friendly amenities, creating a healthier, restorative environment for you during your stay in Machu Picchu.

1 Night

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is ideally located in Aguas Calientes, providing easy access to the majestic Machu Picchu ruins. Surrounded by lush gardens and designed to harmonize with nature, it offers a serene retreat. Enjoy guided nature walks, an Andean Spa, and a unique butterfly house that enhances your experience in this stunning region.

This morning, you will have a second visit to the Machu Picchu complex (No guide included).

Lunch on your account.

Return to Aguas Calientes for your Vistadome train to return to Cusco.

Sonesta Hotel Cusco is located just an 8-minute drive away from the Velasco Astete Airport, and a few blocks from the Main Square. The hotel offers guests quick access to the train station and major tourist attractions such as the Koricancha Palace and Sacsayhuaman. Accommodation is provided in Standard Single Rooms, Standard Matrimonial Rooms, Standard Twin Rooms, Executive Twin Rooms, and Executive Matrimonial Rooms. Facilities and services available to guests staying at the hotel include airport pick-up, free Wi-Fi, the on-site Mamaji restaurant, room service, event rooms, and laundry facilities.

3 Nights

Casa Andina Premium Cusco is a beautiful 17th-century mansion located just 5 minutes from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco and a few steps from the city's main tourist attractions. Accommodation consists of 93 spacious guest rooms and suites, each equipped with air conditioning, a television, minibar and an in-room safe. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, unwinding with a refreshing drink at the bar, or staying in and taking advantage of the room service. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi access and a 24-hour reception. Massage services are also available

This morning, you will embark on a guided city tour of Cusco, visit the most important places of the Archaeological Capital of America which was the capital of the Inca's Empire. Observe the mixture of the 3 cultures: the native quechuas Indians, the Spanish conquerors and the actual people. We include the visit of the Main Square, the Cathedral, the church of 'La Compañía', the attractive neighbourhood of San Blas and the Santo Domingo Church former Koricancha Temple.

After seeing the sights of the ancient city, your visit will take you to the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a true testimonial to Incan architectural skills. Compiled of massive stones (one weighs 125 tons!) you are challenged to try to slip a piece of paper through the cracks in between these blocks, cut and fitted together with incredible precision without a single drop of mortar to hold them in place. This ancient fortress (where the greatest battle between the Spanish and Incas took place) overlooks the red-tiled roofs of Cusco and the breathtaking countryside surrounding the city.

Afternoon at your leisure.

Today, we will travel south of Cusco to Piquillacta. This town, one of the most important civil monuments left by the Incas, is thought to have been a repository for agricultural products or else used for defensive purposes.

Pikillacta is a popular tourist attraction in Peru. The archaeological site features remain of the Wari culture dating back to 500 or 900 years AD. The site is approximately two kilometres in length and features a citadel surrounded by embankments and walls up to seven meters.

From there continue south to Andahuaylillas. Here you find the 'Sixtine Chapel of Peru', a church that is home to golden altars, paintings and many colored ceilings. The chapel is simple and unassuming on the outside, but on the inside you’ll find masterpiece after masterpiece.

Enjoy box lunch in the small town, before visiting the nearby ruins of Tipon.

Visit the nearby ruins of Tipon. These well-preserved remains include significant steps and aqueducts, and there is a pleasant walk through the ruins. From here you will return by road to Cusco and your hotel.

Tipón is an Inca site about 20 km east of Cuzco. These Inca ruins may have been a park for the upper class or an agricultural centrum. Even today, water rushes through the channels and the wide terraces are in perfect condition. Many of the surrounding ruins have been excavated and there are many more visible below the soil.

Either way, it was was a very important place and a major shrine where water was worshipped, the same way as every element was taken care of and worshipped by the Incas. Even though all the mysteries of this calm place have not been solved, the sound of water will give you the sensation of being close to the gods. Tipón is considered one of the 16 most important archaeological tours for tourists who visit the area and there is a variety of tour operators offering various packages including this site in the area.

Farewell dinner at MAP Café restaurant.

MAP Café should feature on the itinerary of any serious foodie. The cuisine here tastes as good as it looks – and the presentation at this restaurant is its point of pride. Located inside the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, the glass-walled eatery looks over a quaint courtyard. Top tip: don’t miss out on sampling the delectable desserts at this fabulous eatery!

Peru is most famous for the sacred archaeological site of Machu Picchu – visited each year by scores of intrepid hikers who brave the Inca Trail’s arduous slopes to explore the age-old ruins. The country’s attractions extend far beyond the mystical allure of this legendary location and include palm-fringed beaches, quaint Andean villages and archaeological treasures that predate Machu Picchu by hundreds of years – all imbued with the nation’s rich melange of indigenous and colonial cultures. Equally enticing are the exotic reaches of Peru’s Amazon rainforest; Lima’s superb eateries, exquisite architecture and effervescent nightlife; the glittering, mountain-ringed waters of Lake Titicaca; and the vibrant city of Cusco, referred to by the Incas as ‘the centre of the world’.

Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Peruvian Sol 
Symbol: S/ 
ISO code: PEN 
Subunit: céntimo 
Banknotes: S/10, S/20, S/50, S/100, S/200 
Coins: céntimo, S/1, S/2, S/5 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: LATAM Airlines, Avianca 
International Airports: Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima) 
Domestic Airports: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (Cusco), Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (Arequipa), Capitán FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport (Trujillo) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Limited 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Limited 

Health and Medical Information

Q'inti meets or exceeds the travel industry’s latest global health and safety protocols.

Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and flavourful, featuring influences from indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian cuisines. Highlights include ceviche (marinated raw fish), lomosaltado (stir-fried beef), and causa (layered potato dish). Notable local drinks include Pisco Sour (cocktail), chicha morada (purple corn drink), and Inca Kola. 
Tipping: 10% 

Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: Varies by region 
Average lows: Varies by region 

 Winter: 

Average highs: Varies by region 
Average lows: Varies by region 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the ancient ruins. 

Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 

Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 220V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.