Cultural tour: local guide
13 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
21 meals
included
Flights
available
35.0Kg CO2e
Embark on an unforgettable 14 day private guided adventure through Peru, where ancient civilisations, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture intertwine to create the journey of a lifetime. From your first moments in Lima, the coastal capital, you'll be immersed in a city alive with history, where colonial architecture, lively plazas and colourful neighbourhoods reveal centuries of heritage and the enduring rhythm of daily life.
Journey deep into the Amazon rainforest near Puerto Maldonado, a lush paradise of winding rivers, towering trees and remarkable wildlife, from playful monkeys to dazzling tropical birds and elusive river otters. Stay at the eco friendly Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge, where rustic bungalows blend seamlessly with the jungle. Explore the forest canopy on suspended walkways, glide along tranquil waterways in canoes and experience the magic of the rainforest by night on guided hikes.
Continue to the Andes Mountains, where the ancient city of Cusco unveils a captivating fusion of Incan ingenuity and Spanish colonial charm and in the Sacred Valley, discover traditional markets, centuries old terraces and the enduring spirit of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Then, ascend to the legendary Machu Picchu, where the lost citadel rises majestically above the misty peaks, a true wonder of the world. Nearby, the salt mines of Maras and the circular terraces of Moray showcase the region's innovative agricultural past.
Your adventure culminates on the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca in Puno, the world's highest navigable lake, where you meet the welcoming communities of Taquile and the floating islands of Uros, whose ancient customs and vibrant textiles preserve Peru's rich cultural legacy.
Throughout your journey, expert private guides bring Peru's history, landscapes and traditions to life, while seamless private transfers ensure a smooth, enriching experience from start to finish. From the depths of the rainforest to the heights of the Andes, this journey captures the very essence of Peru - a land of natural beauty, ingenuity and timeless wonder.
TERRAIN
Altitude: Some of the areas visited are at high altitude and some short walks (normally one to three hours) are planned.
Altitude - Cusco is at an altitude of 3,400m. Puno is at an altitude of 3,800m. Taking breaks and staying hydrated is vital when in this area.
Machu Picchu - The site has steep and irregular paths, with many steps, up and down, which can be slippery when wet. Machu Picchu sits at an altitude of 2,430m.
Today you arrive in Lima, where you will be warmly greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel (approximately 50 minutes). The remainder of the day is free to rest after your journey, acclimatise to your new surroundings, perhaps take a gentle stroll nearby or simply relax at the hotel, preparing for the adventures ahead.
You stay at Hotel El Tambo 2 Hotel.
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Hotel El Tambo 2 is a charming 3-star hotel in Lima’s Miraflores district, steps from Larcomar. The property blends comfort and convenience, offering modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to shops, restaurants and city attractions.
Begin your discovery of Peru in its vibrant capital, Lima - a city on the Pacific coast where colonial elegance blends seamlessly with modern energy. Your exploration starts at the historic Aliaga House, a beautifully preserved colonial mansion with more than five centuries of history, said to be the oldest residence in the Americas. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Plaza Mayor, the heart of Lima's historic centre, where you'll admire the grand Lima Cathedral. Conclude the day at the renowned Larco Museum: set within an 18th-century mansion in Pueblo Libre, it's home to an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian treasures, including intricate gold and silver artifacts and one of the world's most unique displays of ancient erotic art.
The rest of the day is at leisure for independent exploration.
Breakfast included.
You stay at Hotel El Tambo 2 Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTV
Hotel El Tambo 2 is a charming 3-star hotel in Lima’s Miraflores district, steps from Larcomar. The property blends comfort and convenience, offering modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to shops, restaurants and city attractions.
This morning, fly from Lima to Puerto Maldonado (approximately 1 hr 45 minutes), the gateway to Peru's southern Amazon. From the airport, transfer to the dock for a 25-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, leading deep into the rainforest. Arrive at the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion Lodge in time for lunch, then in the afternoon, explore jungle trails with a naturalist guide, discovering the Amazon's rich flora and animal life. After dinner, embark on an evening boat excursion to spot caimans and experience the magic of the river under a starlit sky.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
You stay at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge.
Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, near Tambopata National Reserve, is a rainforest eco-lodge on a former cacao and rubber plantation. Enjoy wildlife walks, birdwatching, canoe rides and spa treatments with natural Amazonian ingredients - an immersive Peruvian Amazon experience.
After breakfast, journey to Sandoval Lake in the Tambopata National Reserve. A short boat ride and jungle walk will bring you to this pristine lake, home to giant river otters, black caimans, monkeys, macaws and countless bird species. Glide by canoe across its calm waters, surrounded by towering palms and rainforest. In the afternoon, explore the Amazon from two perspectives: walk the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway, suspended 30m above the forest, for stunning views and wildlife encounters, then follow the Anaconda Trail through swampland and jungle. As evening falls, there's the option of a moonlit jungle excursion or a relaxing treatment at the Nua Spa (payable locally).
Breakfast and dinner included.
You stay at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica Lodge.
Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, near Tambopata National Reserve, is a rainforest eco-lodge on a former cacao and rubber plantation. Enjoy wildlife walks, birdwatching, canoe rides and spa treatments with natural Amazonian ingredients - an immersive Peruvian Amazon experience.
Wake up to the tranquil sounds of the Amazon on your final morning in the jungle. After breakfast, you'll take a 25-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, offering a last glimpse of the rainforest's beauty and wildlife. From here, transfer to Puerto Maldonado Airport for your flight to Cusco (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, with the rest of the day free to relax or begin exploring the city at your own pace.
Breakfast included.
You stay at Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTV
Safe
Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi is a cosy hotel housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century colonial residence, steps from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Guests enjoy spacious wood-accented rooms, peaceful courtyards, complimentary WiFi and welcoming service - an ideal blend of history, comfort, and convenience in the heart of the city.
Meet your guide to explore the fascinating city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander cobbled streets lined with Inca stone walls, colonial churches and lively plazas that showcase the city's unique blend of history and culture. Begin at the Santo Domingo Convent, built atop the sacred Inca temple of Coricancha, before visiting the magnificent Cathedral Basilica, renowned for its golden altar pieces and Cusco School art. In the hills above the city, discover the impressive Sacsayhuaman Fortress, the ceremonial site of Qenqo and the military complex of Puca Pucara. Conclude at Tambomachay, the 'Inca Spa,' with its ingenious water features, before returning to your hotel.
Breakfast included.
You stay at Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVSafe
Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi is a cosy hotel housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century colonial residence, steps from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Guests enjoy spacious wood-accented rooms, peaceful courtyards, complimentary WiFi and welcoming service - an ideal blend of history, comfort, and convenience in the heart of the city.
Today's journey begins in Pisac, a charming town at the entrance to the Sacred Valley. Explore the impressive Inca ruins, with their hillside terraces and temples offering sweeping views of the valley, before browsing in the vibrant artisan market, where locals sell handwoven textiles, ceramics, jewellery and traditional crafts. After lunch, continue to Ollantaytambo, known as the 'Living Inca Town.' Its remarkable fortress and terraces, dramatically set against the mountains, were once a strategic stronghold during the Spanish conquest. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets that still follow original Inca urban planning, providing a rare glimpse of daily life preserved for centuries.
Breakfast included.
You stay at Ava Valle Sagrado Spot Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTV
AVA Valle Sagrado Spot is a serene retreat in Peru’s Sacred Valley, offering cosy rooms with mountain or garden views. Guests enjoy a restaurant, spa services, free Wi-Fi and easy access to local attractions - perfect for relaxation and exploring the stunning Andean landscapes.
A true bucket-list experience awaits today with a visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Perched high in the Andes, this 15th-century Incan citadel - often called the Lost City of the Incas - offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history amid breathtaking mountain vistas. Begin with a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, a charming town nestled in the cloud forest. From here, a short bus ride takes you to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Explore its terraced fields, sacred temples and ingenious stonework while taking in sweeping views of the Urubamba River below. After this unforgettable guided tour, return by bus and train before transferring back to your hotel.
Breakfast and lunch included.
You stay at Ava Valle Sagrado Spot Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTV
AVA Valle Sagrado Spot is a serene retreat in Peru’s Sacred Valley, offering cosy rooms with mountain or garden views. Guests enjoy a restaurant, spa services, free Wi-Fi and easy access to local attractions - perfect for relaxation and exploring the stunning Andean landscapes.
This morning, your guide will take you to explore the fascinating sites of Maras and Moray. In Maras, discover the spectacular salt terraces, or Salineras de Maras, a dazzling patchwork of glistening white pools carved into the mountainside and used since Incan times. Still harvested by local families today, the salt pans offer a unique window into centuries-old traditions and stunning views of the Andean peaks. Continue to Moray, where concentric circular terraces descend into the earth like a giant amphitheatre. Believed to have been an Incan agricultural laboratory, Moray showcases remarkable ingenuity in using varied microclimates for crop experimentation. Together, these sites blend cultural heritage with breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast included.
You stay at Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVSafe
Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi is a cosy hotel housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century colonial residence, steps from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Guests enjoy spacious wood-accented rooms, peaceful courtyards, complimentary WiFi and welcoming service - an ideal blend of history, comfort, and convenience in the heart of the city.
After several days of Amazon adventures and Inca explorations, enjoy a well-deserved day to relax and reflect in Cusco. Having already experienced the city tour, you can revisit favourite spots or explore at your own pace. Stroll through the vibrant San Pedro Market, wander the charming streets of San Blas, Cusco's bohemian neighbourhood filled with art, cafes and local shops, or take a short walk up to the Mirador de San Blas for panoramic views over the city. Whether you choose to relax, shop or soak in the atmosphere, the day is yours to enjoy exactly as you wish.
Breakfast included.
You stay at Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVSafe
Tierra Viva Cusco Saphi is a cosy hotel housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century colonial residence, steps from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. Guests enjoy spacious wood-accented rooms, peaceful courtyards, complimentary WiFi and welcoming service - an ideal blend of history, comfort, and convenience in the heart of the city.
Today is a full day of travel by road from Cusco to Puno (approximately 7 hours), with fascinating cultural stops along the way. Your first visit is to Andahuaylillas, a charming town home to the San Pedro Church - often called the Sistine Chapel of the Andes - famed for its decorative wall paintings and baroque beauty. Continue to Raqchi, where the monumental Temple of Wiracocha showcases the scale and sophistication of Incan architecture and spirituality. Finally, explore Pukara, an ancient pre-Inca site dating back over 2,000 years, known for its fortress ruins, burial towers, and striking stone sculptures. Each stop reveals a different layer of Peru's cultural heritage. Overnight in Puno.
Breakfast and lunch included.
You stay at Tierra Viva Puno Plaza Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTV
MinibarSafe
Tierra Viva Puno Plaza is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Puno, steps from the Plaza de Armas. It offers comfortable, modern rooms, complimentary breakfast and attentive service—an ideal base for exploring Lake Titicaca and the city’s cultural attractions.
Today you will explore the wonders of Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake and experience the unique cultures of its island communities. Begin with a visit to the Uros Floating Islands, man-made from layers of totora reeds. Here, the Uros people have lived for centuries, maintaining floating homes, schools and boats while preserving their remarkable way of life. The shimmering blue waters and reed islands create a truly photogenic setting. Continue to Taquile Island, famous for its UNESCO-recognised textiles and handwoven clothing, crafted using centuries-old techniques. As you wander its scenic trails, enjoy sweeping views across the lake and surrounding Andes, while gaining insight into the traditions of this vibrant indigenous community.
Breakfast and lunch included.
You stay at Tierra Viva Puno Plaza Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTVMinibarSafe
Tierra Viva Puno Plaza is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Puno, steps from the Plaza de Armas. It offers comfortable, modern rooms, complimentary breakfast and attentive service—an ideal base for exploring Lake Titicaca and the city’s cultural attractions.
We take you to Juliaca Airport (approximately 1hour 10 minutes) for your flight back to Lima (approximately 1hour 40 minutes). On arrival at your hotel, you have the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Lima's historic streets, browse local markets for unique souvenirs, or relax at your hotel.
You stay at Hotel El Tambo 2 Hotel.
HairdryerWiFiTV
Hotel El Tambo 2 is a charming 3-star hotel in Lima’s Miraflores district, steps from Larcomar. The property blends comfort and convenience, offering modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to shops, restaurants and city attractions.
We take you back to Lima Airport for your flight home.
Breakfast included.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from £405.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into your destination. Transfers from the airport are included in the basic Tour Only price above.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices fluctuate significantly and can change rapidly. At Headwater, we offer competitively priced flights with built-in flight protection for your peace of mind. For more details, please click here.
Cultural tour: local guide
13 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
21 meals
included
Flights
available
35.0Kg CO2e
