15-DAY LIMA, AREQUIPA, PUNO AND CUSCO

You will meet your guide and transferred to the hotel after arrival. While Peru’s capital was officially established in 1535, founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, settlements had been scattered through the valley since before the Incas. Lima was built on top of the palaces and temples of the local chiefs, who had little choice but to move on. Lima was in its prime during the Spanish colonial days and much of the city’s attraction now lies in its well-preserved historical centre.

From: Jorge Chavez International Airport
To: Belmond Miraflores Park

Set in one of Lima’s most fashionable areas, Belmond Miraflores Park takes you straight to the heart of all that’s best about this great capital city.

This luxury hotel combines personalised service, exceptional dining and indulgent facilities to create the perfect base from which to explore. Colonial architecture, superb museums with Inca gold and Pre-Columbian antiquities, and glamorous shops, bars and restaurants are all just moments from the hotel.

Address: Belmond Miraflores Park, Malecón de la Reserva, Miraflores, Peru

One of the most popular places to stay and live and arguably one of the coolest neighbourhoods of Lima, Miraflores lies on the outskirts of the city and has a lot to offer both travellers and locals.

Along its boardwalk, you’ll find a couple of miles of spectacular, uninterrupted parks which boast unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. Whilst Lima is known as the gastronomical capital of South America, Miraflores is where the best known, most gourmet and most experimental restaurants lie.

The occupation of Miraflores dates back to the oldest occupation of the Peruvian Coast, the first settlers were fishermen. the area was later occupied by several ancient cultures and the most significant reminder of this is Huaca Pucllana, a pyramid and the only pre-Inca ruin remaining in Miraflores.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Miraflores, Peru

This morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Arequipa. Start your private afternoon tour at the Carmen Alto viewpoint. Here, you can see the Chili River which divides Arequipa with pre-Inca period terraces and the volcanoes Misti, Chachani & Pichu Picchu. Admire the fruit plantations, old fashion neighbourhoods, bas-relief engravings and baroque-style churches and monasteries.

From: Belmond Miraflores Park
To: Jorge Chavez International Airport

From: Jorge Chavez International Airport
To: Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport

+ not included in price

From: Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport
To: Hotel Cirqa

Originally founded in 1540, the year in which Arequipa was built, Hotel Cirqa’s latest big constructional changes date from 1883. The appreciation for its long-standing history combined with current contemporary nuances make for a small boutique hotel applauded for its astounding architectural interior.

Cirqa’s powerful walls, arches and columns, all made of volcanic sillar rock, were conserved as carefully as possible and form the timeless nucleus of the property on the first floor where carefully designed rooms, of which some have the original high-vaulted ceiling.

The rooftop is converted into an organic garden which serves as the base for a rural style picantería in the heart of the city. At the property, you’ll find 11 well- appointed rooms, a dining and seating area, a rooftop terrace, a patio with a heated plunge pool and a spa therapy room.

Address: Hotel Cirqa, Calle Sucre, Arequipa, Peru

You will start the tour around the city visiting Carmen Alto viewpoint, located on the right side of Chili river that divides Arequipa into two parts. From both sides of the river, it is possible to see the terraces from the pre-Inca period still in good condition. You can see a beautiful landscape dominated by the majesty of the volcanoes Misti, Chachani and Pichu Picchu.

Then, you will continue until Yanahuara district, a traditional neighbourhood with beautiful narrow and old fashion streets with Andalucian influence. Next, you’ll take a walk or ride to the Plaza de Armas (Main Square), considered one of the most beautiful and stunning squares of Peru.

You’ll visit the Saint Catalina Monastery, and on the way stop to see the Tristan Del Pozo Colonial House; this one was built in the southern Peruvian Baroque style.

The Saint Catalina Monastery is a small citadel in the city which has been closed to the public for centuries, but now it has been harmoniously restored to allow us a glimpse of how Arequipa looked in the 17th century. There are narrow streets, squares and gardens, and stunning, airtight cloisters in the middle of huge walls made out of ashlars. You will see rustic laundry, cells and all the other aspects of this little colonial citadel.

Address: Carmen Alto viewpoint, Ramon Castilla, Arequipa, Peru

Built into volcanic sillar rock, the historic centre of Arequipa is a physical representation of the melding of European and native architecture.

The beautiful combination of colonial building masters and Indian masons is exemplified through the city walls, strong archways, vaults and courtyards, complemented perfectly by decorative Baroque features of the facades.

The stories of native communities from times past and the Spanish colonisation of this city are told through its walls, nestled at the foot of snow-covered volcanoes. The city can be characterised through the earthquakes that affected its infrastructure, in efforts to rebuild the city, new architectural styles were introduced over the years, adding everything from Neoclassicism to contemporary design to its streets.

Address: Arequipa, Peru

Built in 1579 and located in the historical centre of Arequipa, the Santa Catalina Monastery is a fascinating convent that is not to be missed. Commonly referred to as ‘a city within a city’, the Santa Catalina Monastery is a 20,000-square-metre complex guarded by high imposing walls.

From the 16th to 18th century, it served as a convent for nuns and still, today houses a small religious community. Built from volcanic sillar stone, the building which is made up of cloisters, living quarters, a plaza, gallery and a chapel has experienced significant deterioration over the years due to the porous quality of the stone used. Sitting on a volcanic area has also meant the monastery has fallen victim to several earthquakes over the last 70 years.

As you wander around the monastery, you’ll enter the Novice Cloister. This is where Novice nuns from various descent were required to devote four years of their life to work and prayer as well as a vow of silence. At the end of the four years, the nuns had a choice to take their vows or leave the service – the latter would obviously bring shame on their families.

The Novice Cloister leads on to the Orange Cloister where graduated nuns would live our their lives, followed by the living quarters, a mortuary and several other buildings.

Address: Santa Catalina 301, Arequipa, Peru

After breakfast, the rest of the day is at leisure. In the late afternoon transfer to the train station to board the luxurious Andean Explorer train. Travel from Arequipa to Cusco in unforgettable style, as you are whisked through Peru’s most spectacular destinations, including the spellbinding Lake Titicaca. Dine in one of the elegant dining cars. After dinner, head to the bar car and enjoy a cocktail while meeting fellow travellers.

From: Hotel Cirqa
To: PeruRail – Arequipa Station | Arequipa station

The Belmond Andean Explorer was the first luxury sleeper train in South America, and it has lived up to its pristine reputation. The sleek train has 16 carriages that make for a striking image set against the picturesque Andean plains.

Enjoy a diverse menu with seasonal dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. There is an opportunity to chat with fellow travellers in the lounge car while sipping a pisco sour and relaxing to the tune of sweet piano rhythms. Guests can retreat to the spa car for a soothing massage with traditional Andean ritual techniques. After enjoying the luxurious facilities, retire to the en-suite cabins for a great night’s sleep with a comfortable bed where all the designs have been planned. This train is the best way to see Peru.

Address: Raqchi Temple, Peru

Travel from Arequipa to Cusco in unforgettable style on the luxurious Belmond Andean Explorer train. Savour the unforgettable indulgence of the Andean Explorer train as you are whisked through Peru’s most spectacular destinations, including the spellbinding Lake Titicaca.

Board the train in the Baroque city of Arequipa. Take some time to get comfortable in your cabin and acclimatize to the indulgent atmosphere of the train as you begin your journey towards Puno.

Then take your seat in one of the elegant dining cars for your first dinner on board. Relax and savour refined Andean dishes served with contemporary flair. After dinner, why not head to the bar car and enjoy a cocktail as you get to know your fellow travellers?

Once to Puno, you will make stops to see Lake Titicaca and the Uros floating islands and Taquile Island on the lake. There will be another stop at the Raqch’i Temple before arriving in Cusco.

Address: Arequipa, Peru

Address: Yucay, Peru

Awake early to witness the sunrise across Lake Titicaca. This afternoon explore Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world and home to many diverse islands. Take a traditional boat to Uros, man-made islands artfully constructed from interwoven reeds. Continue the exploration to Taquile Island, notable for its stunning agricultural terraces and their handwoven fabrics. Enjoy lunch at Collata beach, followed by a local dance performance. Board the train and continue to Cusco.

Situated between Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America and also the highest navigable body of water in the world.

One of Peru’s leading attractions, Lake Titicaca has a long history of ancient civilisations who have all left their mark on this area. These unique indigenous communities including PreInca Pukara, Tiwanaku and Collas, have all contributed to making this landscape one of the most unique in the world. Today, the lakes shores and surrounding regions are scattered with ruined cathedrals framed by the Andean plateau, rolling hills and imposing Andean peaks. The communities that inhabit this area are known for their tireless work of planting crops by hand, sporting sandals made from recycled truck tires and women who work in petticoats and bowler hats keeping tame llamas as pets.

Awake early for a spellbinding experience as you witness the sunrise across Lake Titicaca. Breakfast is served on board; the perfect set up for a day full of adventure. This afternoon explore Lake Titicaca.

Address: Lake Titicaca, Peru

Indigenous to Peru and Bolivia, Uru people live on around 120 floating islands, handmade using materials surrounding Lake Titicaca, where the islands are. The lake lies on the border of Peru and Bolivia. Forming three main groups; Uru-Chipaya, Uru-Murato, and Uru-Iruito, only the Uru-Iruito live on the Bolivian side of the border.

The Uru people descend from those who spoke Puquina language, although the languages have been lost for over 500 years, after years of trading and eventually intermarrying with the Aymara tribe.

The islands were originally built as a form of defence, with the original watchtower still remaining on the central island. Everything is made from strong totora reeds. In fact, every aspect of the Uru people’s lives involve the totora reeds, including as a staple part of their diet and medicine.

The islands are stabilised by roots that are formed by the reeds that grow on the surface of the water. The reeds provide a stable surface as they intertwine naturally, however they rot fast, so extra layers are added every three months to stop the island from sinking too much.

Take a traditional boat to one of the Uros floating islands constructed from interwoven reeds which are constantly being replenished. The people who live on the island use the same reed to create homes, ships and tools.

Address: Lake Titicaca, Peru

A tiny island on Lake Titicaca, Taquile is home to just 2,200 inhabitants, despite being a popular stop along the tourist trail.

Taquileños are famed for their textile, woven and dyed by women, and sewen by men, they are known for making the best handicrafts in the country.

As a society that focuses on community collectivism, the people of Taquile live life by the Inca motto, “do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy”, creating self- sufficiency for the island and its people through agriculture, fishing and tourism.

Enjoy lunch at Collata beach, followed by a performance from local dancers and a demonstration of artisans at work.

Address: Taquile Island, Peru

Wake to a delicious breakfast, accompanied by stunning views as the train sets off from Marangani. Along the way, disembark to visit Raqch’i. Once an important Inca settlement, today it boasts fascinating archaeological sites. After brunch, bid farewell to your crew as you arrive in Cusco. The Sacred Valley was undoubtedly a key area of settlement to the Incas; its combination of agreeable climate and fertile plains bestow an unusual abundance of food.

Primarily a toll point that expanded with the growth of the Incan Empire, the site is also known as the Temple of Viracocha, found just outside of the village of San Pedro de Cacha.

There is much speculation around the purpose of the structures, with many researchers believe that they functioned as a religious or administrative centre, however, its dedication to Viracocha, the “Earth Maker” is evident.

Address: Peru

From: Wanchaq
To: Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado

Built to resemble a rural Peruvian village, Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado is one of the most unique luxury hotels in Peru. A stay here lets you experience the majesty of life in the mountains.

Situated at a lower altitude than nearby Cusco, the hotel provides the perfect environment in which to acclimatize and is an ideal base to explore the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Savour sensational cuisine in the restaurant, enjoy a local Sacred Valley massage or spend a few soothing minutes feeding the hotel’s baby alpacas.

Address: Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado, Urubamba, Peru

First, visit the ancient salt ponds harvested since the Incan Empire. Continue to Moray, where huge circular agricultural terraces of cosmological significance were built by the Incas to plant various crops. An organic lunch will be served at the Wayra ranch, accompanied by Paso horse riding demonstrations and Marinera dancers. In the afternoon, travel along the Urubamba River to Ollantaytambo and visit the ruins of this once important Inca town.

Enjoy a private guided trip to Maras Salt Ponds, the circular terraces of Moray and the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. On the way see some of the most scenic spots in the Sacred Valley.

First, visit the ancient salt ponds near the village of Maras, where salty springs emerge from the hillside and the Incas built terraces to capture the flows and harvest salt.

Continue the excursion to Moray, where huge circular agricultural terraces were built by the Incas on limestone sinks served to plant various crops. It is said to have a cosmological significance, however, the Incas used the terraces as an agricultural laboratory to determine the optimum conditions for each species in varying altitudes.

Lunch will be served at a Wayra Restaurant, where Andean cuisine honours the wealth of natural organic ingredients first harvested in the bountiful Sacred Valley by the ancient Incas. Enjoy lunch in the fresh Andean air, accompanied by Peruvian Paso horse riding demonstrations and Marinera dancers.

In the afternoon, travel along the Urubamba River towards the town of Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, see the magnificent example of Incan urban planning. It’s one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish. Once there, visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo, an important Inca construction built during the Inca’s heydays. This is an extraordinary Inca place where besides the ruins you may also see an amazing rock formation representing the Inca god, Wiracocha.

Address: Ollantaytambo, Peru

It is believed there was already a small chapel in Andahuaylillas, built on an Inca temple, which was used as an Indian Reduction at the end of the XVI century, building of the temple as we know it began in 1610, through the initiative of the parish priest Juan Perez de Bocanegra.

In the interior are two beautifully painted organs that are considered the oldest in America. This majestic artistry is also reflected in the coffered ceiling of Mudejar influence, the mural paintings of Luis de Riaño; paintings of the Cusqueña School of Art, the polychromy of the ceilings and the triumphal arch that divides the presbytery and the main nave.

Its baptistery retains the baptismal formula in Latin, Spanish, Quechua, Aymara and Puquina. The paintings which adorn the walls are framed by enormous mouldings of cedar wood and gold leaf.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Andahuaylillas, Peru

A stay at GHL Lake Titicaca, on the private island of Esteves, offers you a privileged position from which to marvel at the richly-coloured dawn sky or relax at the end of the day with a glass of red wine as you watch the sunset over the lake.

The hotel is located at one extreme of Lake Titicaca, in the bay of Puno on a rocky hill surrounded by the extensive reed forest that dominates this side of the bay. The hotel has a private pier from where boats set sail to the islands of Uros, Taquile or Amantani.

Located 45 minutes from Manco Capac Juliaca International Airport, the hotel has 123 rooms. Guests can buy folk art from the gift shop, try their hand on the classic pool table in the bar, take pictures from the observation deck or be pampered in the Wellness & Relax area.

Los Uros restaurant offers international and Peruvian dishes, including a range of traditional Andean specialities, where regional products and ingredients are used. And for the perfect end to the day, Taquile Bar opens its doors and offers cocktails and macerated drinks like the coca sour.
Address: Hotel Libertador Lago Titicaca, Sesquicentenario, Puno, Peru

Located at the far end of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this precious gem of an archaeological site is known to few tourists. Located at 2,792 metres above sea level, Ollantaytambo is a great alternative to Machu Picchu and one of the most common starting points for the famous Inca Trail.

This ancient Inca fortress was built during the Inca Empire in the 15th century and served as the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti. During the Spanish conquest of Peru, Ollantaytambo was the famed stronghold for Manco Inca Yupanqui, leader of the Inca resistance, and is known as one of the few places that Spanish conquistadors lost a major battle.

The approach to Ollantaytambo is guarded by huge, steep terraces. These terraces played a part in the battle to overcome the Spanish conquistadors as they were showered with arrows from the heights above and were unable to climb the terraces. Ollantaytambo is the second most wellpreserved archaeological site in the whole of Peru.

One of the most beautiful towns in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and also the largest, Urubamba is an adventurers playground, surrounded by beautiful scenery made up of undulating foothills and snowy peaks.

Just an hour from Cusco, Urubamba lies within easy reaching distance of a number of significant ruins of the Inca Empire, including the much-revered Machu Picchu. The city itself is a great jumping-off point to explore the surrounding valleys scattered with ancient ruins, climb the towering peaks of the
Cordillera Vilcanota, go canoeing on the Urubamba River, mountain biking, horse riding and more.

Nearby, you’ll find the extraordinary salt flats of Salineras and the terracing of Moray.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Urubamba, Peru

The train ride to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful journeys that visitors can experience in our country.

After passing the Sacred Valley of the Incas the train starts to descend gradually along the edge of the Urubamba River, till finally reaching the cloud forest. The journey is enhanced by travelling on the exclusive and luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train, where you can enjoy the elegant dining car,
the bar car, and the observatory.

Sip on a traditional Peruvian cocktail while taking in the unmatched scenery and listening to live local music. Once onboard, the maître will invite you to a gourmet lunch accompanied by beverages (non-premium) and an excellent wine selection.

Address: Sacred Valley, Peru

Mesmerizing mountain views, sumptuous Peruvian cuisine, sprawling gardens: this heavenly hideaway is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Once you’re feeling refreshed, head out on the adventure of a lifetime. Take a Machu Picchu tour, sign up for an Andean ritual experience, re-energize with yoga and meditation or go on one of the many hikes that are available and begin at the
lodge.

Address: Carretera Hiram Bingham KM 7.5, Aguas Calientes, Peru

Covering an area of 37,302 hectares, the National Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu is a truly spectacular sight which leaves visitors with their mouths agape. The mist, high altitude, sprawling city and lush vegetation all add to this remarkable sight.

In addition to being one of the most recognisable and highlysought after landmarks to visit in Peru, Machu Picchu is one of the most important monuments of the Inca Empire. Estimated to have been built around 1450 BC, its construction would have demanded a number of specialists in architecture, engineering and astronomy, and of course a heroic number of workers.

During the 16th century, Machu Picchu was abandoned; however, it was maintained and inhabited by local farmers so didn’t ever fall into complete disarray. Luckily the sight was never revealed to Spanish colonists and remained almost entirely forgotten about until the early 20th century.

Designated as a UNESCO’s World Heritage List, this aweinspiring Inca city is on the bucket list of almost every traveller and is one of the most important Inca legacies left for us to marvel at.

Included: Entrance Ticket Machu Picchu

Address: Machu Picchu, Peru

From: Machu Picchu
To: Aguas Calientes

From: Aguas Calientes
To: Poroy

“Hiram Bingham” Luxury Train. Onboard, enjoy a gourmet dinner accompanied with beverages (non-premium) and an excellent wine selection.

One of the most unique hotels in Cusco, at Belmond Hotel Monasterio you can experience the thrill of staying in a protected national monument. Here, you can discover two inspired restaurants and 122 boutique rooms and suites, all clustered around a tranquil central courtyard.

Belmond Hotel Monasterio is the ideal hotel from which to discover the delights of the city, its doors open to a vibrant scene of old and modern architecture, markets, galleries and cafes serving exciting Andean cuisine.

Uncover the secrets of South American cuisine and delight in the menu’s internationally inspired twists. Home to some of the best restaurants in Cusco, at Belmond Hotel Monasterio artisanal local produce takes centre stage. Candlelit arches, shady cloisters and spirited live music help set the scene for
unforgettable dining.

Address: Belmond Hotel Monasterio, Plazoleta Nazarenas, Cusco, Peru

From: Poroy
To: Belmond Hotel Monasterio

With an English speaking guide.

Today visit the City’s highlights located in and around Cusco. Start by visiting the huge Inca Ceremonial Centre of Sacsayhuaman. This enormous structure overlooks the city of Cusco. Its constructions are amazing, with huge rocks perfectly fitted. It is said that it took over 10,000 workers 50
years to build it. The origin of the temple of Sacsayhuaman is still unknown today. The archaeologist attributed its construction to the period of the Inca Pachacutec.

Continue visiting another important Inca site known as “Qenqo”. This is a place with subterranean passages and carved stone channels in a zigzag pattern. In its inner part, there is a carved stone table where it is said the Incas mummified their dead.

Afterwards make a short visit to the archaeological Inca sites of “Tambomachay” a temple dedicated to the God of Water and “Puca Pucará”. Return to Cusco to visit one of the most sacred Inca buildings, “The Temple of Qoricancha”. Qoricancha was the most important temple of the Inca Empire. According to archaeologists it housed over 1000 priests and attendants.

Then head to the heart of the city, “the Plaza de Armas”, surrounded by colonial arcades and four churches. Finally, visit the Museum of Pisco to learn more about the traditional drink of Peru. Get an up-close and personalised introduction to its history, diffusion, the process and how to best appreciate
Peru’s national drink. End this experience tasting a Pisco Sour.

Address: Cusco, Cusco, Peru

Situated on the outskirts of Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is an archaeological marvel which has baffled geologists and historians for many years. Covering an area of 12 square miles, Sacsayhuaman is architectural work of art of huge megalithic walls made of stones that each weigh anything from 99 to 138 tonnes.

Recent studies have dated the stones at 3,000 years old and some even older. At an altitude of 3,700 metres above the sea level, the stones are arranged in three-tiered walls and are the biggest stones ever seen in Incan construction. No mortar was used during the process of building the complex and each stone of varying sizes and shapes is perfectly and tightly fitted together.

It is estimated that over 20,000 workers wre involved in the construction of the site; although, some theorists have suggested it was the work of aliens and others have suggested it was the work of ancient giants. All we know for sure is, the precision construction on display is one of the most impressive displays of Incan ingenuity ever seen.

The Sacsayhuaman site along with the city of Cusco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage List in 1983.

Address: Sacsayhuaman, Peru

Found in the Sacred Valley of Peru, Qenko is one of the largest holy sites in the Cusco region which are locally referred to as Huacas; an object which is highly revered, typically rock formations, it was taught through Incan beliefs that a physical presence is in such formations.

It was here that rituals and ceremonies took place; after several excavations, evidence of mummification and sacrifice have been found.

Address: Cusco, Peru

Directly translating from Quechua to mean ‘red fortress’, Puca Pucara is the Spanish version of the name Puka Pukara; the rocks of the fortress have a reddish colour at dusk.

The towering walls, terraces and staircases form a defence line for Cusco and indeed, the Inca Empire, just 4 miles from the city, providing the perfect watchtower to protect the area.

While not much is known about the site, archaeologists have come to the conclusion that the fortress was built during the reign of the 9th Sapa Inca. The overall aesthetic of the fortress gives the impression that it was rushed, suggesting that it was built at a time when there was an urgent need for a fortress overlooking Cusco. However, this is just one theory for its purpose.

Address: Peru

Thought to be built during the Incan Empire, the word comes is a Quechuan word that could be associated with a bar or pub but with a twist. With evidence of manmade waterfalls, canals and waterways that navigate there way between terraces.

The function of the area is uncertain, it could have served as an elitist resort or military outpost guarding Cusco.

Address: Cusco, Peru

A religious centre of Cusco for Inca people, Qorikancha was the site of homage to the Sun God, Inti. Today, the original site takes up half of what is now the Church of Santa Domingo.

It is with thanks to Inca Garcilaso, son of a Spanish conquistador and an Inca noblewoman, that there can be some understanding of what the temple looked like during the Inca period. His description details embalmed bodies of children of the Sun, tables of gold and walls covered in gold plates, the largest and thickest gold plate represents the Sun, covering the temple. The western end is where a drum overlooking Avenida Sol currently is, its eastern end reached the end of the churchyard.

Within the complex, there were 5 other temples, five fountains and two gardens, all of which were used for religious or ritualistic purposes. The remains of the gardens are clear, and as you walk around the grounds, you’ll see fragments of what was once here.

Address: Santo Domingo s/n, Cusco 08000, Peru

Serving as Cusco’s main square, Plaza De Armas sits in the heart of the capital city fringed with colonial arcades, wide stone pathways and well-kept colourful gardens. Although in ancient times, the square was much large, it is still as important today as it was then.

Plaza De Armas is home to the imposing and iconic Cusco Cathedral at the northern end as well as the impressively ornate Church of La Compañía de Jesús on the southern end. The pedestrian alley of Loreto is a particular highlight due to its perfectly-preserved carved stone Inca walls.

Framed by Spanish colonial buildings, the square is the location for many big events in Cusco including Inti Raymi – the Inca Festival of the Sun – and the religious festival of Corpus Christi. The flags of Peru and Tahuantinsuyo fly here daily.

Worth a visit both day and night, Plaza De Armas has a different feeling for both. Surrounded by a wide variety of restaurants and eateries as well as lively bars and pavement cafes, this square is the hub of activity in Cusco.

Address: PLAZA MAYOR CENTRO DE, Cusco 08000, Peru

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. But after such hard work, he was thirsty.

And thus could think of nothing better than to create the grape and, from its fruit, make a fine spirit. He called it Pisco. And he saw that it was good, so it became the elixir of other Gods. Later, he continued to entertain himself creating the animals, plants and the rest of the world.

When it is proclaimed in Peru that God is Peruvian, it’s no joke, actually, it is a popular saying which people take very seriously. And when it is claimed that Pisco is Peruvian, it’s viewed as an undeniable and irrefutable fact, based upon historical evidence.

Museo del Pisco is not your average museum, it’s a bar, run by three Pisqueros; people who are passionate and knowledgable about Peru’s national drink, pisco and excited to share this knowledge with you. There is no better way to do this than to have a drink at the bar.

Address: Santa Catalina Ancha 398, Cusco 08002, Peru

In the heart of the Peruvian city of Cusco, San Blas is a vibrant and atmospheric neighbourhood where each street is packed with incredible history and people eager to explore it.

Following the Spanish Conquest, San Blas became a colonial parish full of colonial architecture, an area which is very different from the rest of Cusco. Now known as the artisan’s quarter, San Blas is home to cute cafes, restaurants and bars where live music pours out of in the evening.

You can wander this artistic neighbourhood and soak up the atmosphere created by the local artists and craftsmen. If you have time, make sure you walk up to San Blas using the ancient Incan road where you’ll also be able to see the 12-angled stone, one of the greatest landmarks of Cusco set in one of the best surviving walls in Cusco.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Cuesta de San Blas, Cusco, Peru

The beating pulse of Cusco, visiting a market is the way to the soul of any city and its people.

Bursting with vibrant colours, mouthwatering smells and surprising sights, the market reveals true Peruvian culture that you can eat your way around, with dozens of small stalls sells tasty snacks.

The market is not for the squeamish, here, everyone knows exactly what their meal looks like before it comes to their plate, with meats, freshly cut before your very eyes. Alongside the fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, you’ll find your token Peruvian souvenirs too.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Cusco 08000, Peru

Not far from Cusco’s famed Plaza de Armas, Museo Inka is a museum entirely devoted to the history of the Incas. Inside, you’ll find fine collections of metalwork, goldwork, jewellery, pottery, textiles, mummies and models. The museum is also home to the world’s largest collection of ceremonial Inca
wooden drinking vessels, known as queros.

Resting on Inca foundations itself, the museum is housed in a beautifully restored building which is known as the Admiral’s House, named after its first owner, is complete with ornate ceilings. Badly damaged by the 1650 and 1950 earthquakes, the building has been fully restored to its former glory and sits amongst Cusco’s finest colonial houses.

A majority of the artefacts within the museum were found in Inca sites around Cusco but some also originate from regions far away. Make sure to catch the huge staircase which is guarded by mythical creature-like sculptures.

+ optional (not included in price)

Address: Ataud 154, Cusco 08002, Peru

Address: Ataud 154, Cusco 08002, Peru

From: Belmond Hotel Monasterio
To: Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport

From: Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport
To: Jorge Chavez International Airport

+ not included in price

From: Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport
To: Jorge Chavez International Airport

+ not included in price

From: Jorge Chavez International Airport
To: Belmond Miraflores Park

Set in one of Lima’s most fashionable areas, Belmond Miraflores Park takes you straight to the heart of all that’s best about this great capital city.

This luxury hotel combines personalised service, exceptional dining and indulgent facilities to create the perfect base from which to explore. Colonial architecture, superb museums with Inca gold and Pre-Columbian antiquities, and glamorous shops, bars and restaurants are all just moments from the
hotel.

Address: Belmond Miraflores Park, Malecón de la Reserva, Miraflores, Peru

Enjoy a pleasant way of exploring the gastronomy capital of Latin America with a culinary tour.

This experience includes small stops to appreciate Lima in a different way. Start with a visit to a traditional roastery to learn about organic Peruvian coffee. These coffees, due to their flavour characteristics as well as the special climate and soil conditions in which they grow, differ from the conventional coffee market.

Continue to a local market to appreciate the exotic Peruvian fruits and try the famous Lucuma in a milkshake at a secret garden café. And, do not miss the chance to taste fruits and local products along the way.

Continue to one of Lima’s top seafood restaurants to learn how to create the Peruvian classics of ceviche and pisco sour with the head chef. These recipes will be amazing souvenirs to bring back home!

Address: Lima, Peru

From: Belmond Miraflores Park
To: Jorge Chavez International Airport