Expedition in the Southern Circuit

Day 1

Welcome to Lima, City of Kings and the Larco Museum of Cultures
Arrival to the city of Lima, assistance, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 2

Lima, City of Kings and the Larco Museum of Cultures
An exclusive and intense tour of the Historical Center of Lima will take us to know and admire the architectonic relics that are part of the old Lima, which has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The Convent of Santo Domingo is the beginning of this magnificent experience. It was built during the foundation of Lima. The Universidad Mayor de San Marcos (University of San Marcos) was founded on this site, the oldest in America. Inside, the choir with the oldest stalls in the country; and the library, with 25,000 books, some printed in the XV century, has an invaluable historical value. The mortal remains of San Martín de Porres, San Juan Masías and Santa Rosa de Lima lie inside. Crossing the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace and the Municipality, going into the Cathedral, a jewel in the history of Lima, with artworks that will make us feel closer to colonial Lima. Leaving downtown Lima and heading to the Larco Museum, where we will get a clear vision of the cultures that inhabited ancient Peru. We shall admire the gold pieces, textiles and erotic ceramics that are part of the collection which will introduce us to the cosmovision of the ancient Peru. The warehouse of this museum will be open during our visit to appreciate the expressions of art that were reflected in their ceramics.
In the afternoon, we'll discover Barranco, Lima's bohemian district, on a private tour designed to immerse us in its vibrant art and cultural scene. We'll stroll through its colorful streets adorned with murals, visit its charming galleries, and admire its iconic colonial mansions. With our personal guide, we'll explore the famous Bridge of Sighs and learn about the district's rich history, which has inspired artists and poets. We'll see its cafes and restaurants overlooking the Pacific Ocean, all while enjoying an atmosphere brimming with creativity and charm. An intimate experience that connects art with Lima's history. Overnight in Lima.

Day 3

Arequipa, Ciudad Blanca
Transfer to the airport. Departure to Arequipa. Arrival, assistance and transfer to the hotel.
In the afternoon, the “White City” opens its doors to us in a tour that starts in the beautiful colonial neighborhood of San Lázaro, the place where Arequipa was founded; from here we will walk thru its colorful streets adorned with geraniums and later we will go to the observation point of Carmen Alto, to enjoy a beautiful view of agricultural terraces and from there we will be able to observe the three volcanos towering over the city: Misti, Chachani and Picchu -Picchu. We continue towards the colonial district of Yanahuara, famous for its church built in the Andalusian style and its observation point, erected with a beautiful architecture and surrounded with arches made of ashlar. Later, we visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, impressive religious monument that was closed for nearly 400 years; with narrow streets, squares and gardens that remind us of the old neighborhoods of Sevilla or Granada. Next, we head towards the Plaza de Armas, from there we will be able to watch the Cathedral and the arches surrounding the plaza, and finally visit the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús; established by the Jesuits in the XVII century, note its cloisters and the famous Dome of San Ignacio.

Day 4

The volcanos route, Pampa Cañahuas and Chivay
Outing in an adventure by land towards the spectacular Colca Valley. We take the route of the volcanos, going up by the side of the Chachani volcano, and having a formidable view of the Misti and the Picchu volcanos. Our path will go across the vicuna reserve of Pampa Cañahuas, high Andean habitat where the vicunas live and are protected. The highest point of our trajectory will reach 4,900 m.a.s.l. in the pass of Patapampa, from there we can appreciate the active volcano Sabancaya. Descent to the Colca Valley. Arrival and lodging. Lunch at the hotel. Free time to rest or to enjoy a bath in the thermal waters in the area.

Day 5

Colca Canyon, Observation point of the Cruz del Cóndor
At dawn, we head towards the observation point of the Cruz del Cóndor. We will be observing the imposing flight of the condors, huge Andean birds that are the symbol of the Andean countries. The view lets us appreciate the great dimension of the canyon, considered one of the world’s deepest canyons. We will visit the towns of Maca and Yanque that still preserve its colonial churches. Lunch in a restaurant in the area. In the afternoon, departure to Arequipa.

Day 6

From Arequipa to the Inca town of Chinchero, the Moray Terraces, and the Maras salt mines
Transition from the city of Arequipa to the serene Sacred Valley is a crucial step for acclimatization as you ascend to higher altitudes. The town of Urubamba sits at an altitude of 2,871 meters (9,419 feet). This day is dedicated to helping your body adjust as you explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich Inca heritage of the Sacred Valley. The tranquil environment of the valley, surrounded by majestic mountains and ancient ruins, provides the perfect setting for relaxation and cultural immersion.
This day we shall visit the most outstanding places in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We will depart towards the Village of Chinchero, the most typical and colorful of the Sacred Valley. This village is famous for its weaving women. Short stop in a textiles center to appreciate the old Inca techniques for the dyeing and spinning using alpaca wool. After visiting the Inca plaza with its beautiful colonial church, we will continue towards Moray, a beautiful Inca archaeological site made up of concentric agricultural terraces that served as a lab to recreate microclimates. Lunch. Later visit to the last living village of the Incas, Ollantaytambo. Also, a visit to the Temple of the ten windows, the bath of the princess, and the Sun Temple. The postcard pictures that we will take from the heights of Ollantaytambo will close this magical day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Lodging in the area.

Day 7

Sacred Valley / Machu Picchu, the Lost City / Sacred Valley
The much-awaited day to visit one of the 7 Wonders of the World. Boarding at the Ollantaytambo station. Departure in the selected train. Arrival at the Machu Picchu station. Assistance, from our staff to board the bus that will ascend up a winding road, with a spectacular view of the Urubamba river which forms a deep canyon. The Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, will greet us with its incredible terraces, staircases, ceremonial sites and urban areas. Energy exudes from the whole place. Lunch. At the coordinated time, return by train and transfer to the hotel in the Sacred Valley. Lodging.

Day 8

Ollantaytambo: the last living Inca village
Ollantaytambo, known as the last living Inca town, is an extraordinary site where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Located in the Sacred Valley, it boasts impressive Inca ruins and a well-preserved layout. The town is divided into two traditional neighborhoods: Qosqo Ayllu, the cultural heart, where the original Inca streets and structures remain intact, and Araqawa Ayllu, known for its agricultural importance. Both areas offer a glimpse into the daily life of the Incas, with vibrant local communities that still practice ancestral customs. Ollantaytambo is a living museum showcasing the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.
At the designated time, we will return to Cusco where we will enjoy lunch at the Morena Restaurant.
In the afternoon,, we will climb up the Archaeological Park of Sacsayhuaman, and start our excursion visiting the fortress with the same name, a beautiful place that radiates peace and quiet, where we will be able to admire the huge rocks measuring up to 4 meters high that were used in its construction. We will then head for Q'enqo, and ancient temple of the Puma, where we will be able to appreciate an altar for sacrifices in the inner part of a huge rock, and then Tambomachay, sacred fountains of life and health. On the way we will have a panoramic view from Puca Pucara, a watchtower that controlled the entrance to the city. After that we will visit the Temple of the Sun “The Korikancha”, on top of which the Saint Dominique Convent was built. A legend tells that his temple was entirely lined in gold sheets that marveled the Conquistadors upon their arrival. Finally, we will go to the Main Square and will visit the Cathedral that reassures invaluable colonial paintings and other works of art such as the Cross that arrived with the first conquerors.

Day 9

Route to the Andean Altiplano
Transfer to the train station to board the Peru Rail Titicaca train to Cusco. This train crosses the Andean highlands and is the second highest in the world, reaching its highest point at 4,319 meters above sea level in La Raya. Here, we will stop to purchase local handicrafts and admire the snow-capped peaks of the Chimboya mountain range. This range marks the point where the waters that flow into Lake Titicaca and the Vilcanota River divide. The latter flows into the Ucayali River and then into the Amazon. From the train, you will have a unique view of the high Andean landscapes and small villages. Enjoy the panoramic carriage and traditional dances. Lunch will be served on board. Arrival in Puno and transfer to the hotel.

Day 10

Puno
Breakfast. Activities and meals included in Titilaka. Accommodation at the Titilaka Hotel.

Day 11

Puno/ Lima
Transfer to Juliaca airport for our flight to Lima. Arrival in Lima and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Lima.

Day 12

Lima
Transfer to the airport to take your flight to Lima and connect with your international flight to your home.