Hike Peru
Luxury Peru Vacations
The striking visual of Machu Picchu’s vertical green hills lined with Incan ruins may be the defining image of Peru. Yet beyond the famed peaks of the new Wonder of the World lies a country with so much more. Food enthusiasts will delight at the culinary scene of bustling Lima while adventurists will be drawn to the grueling hikes of Salktanay and Ausangante or the vertical sand skiing at Huacachina. Nature lovers will flock to the Peruvian Amazon River and Rainforest, or the captivating sceneries of Puno and Lake Titicaca. Peru is a destination for thrill seekers, history buffs and foodies, and just quite possibly everyone else too.
Machu Picchu & Delfin Amazon River Cruise
Featured Peru Itinerary
Highlights of Peru
Lima and Paracas
Lima's culinary culture is singular, earning the “City of the Kings” a reputation as one of the world’s most-desired foodie destinations. The oceanfront district of Miraflores offers an abundance of inviting eateries, from cozy cafés serving daily seafood catches to upscale venues drawing on influences from across the globe. From street vendors to fine-dining establishments you’ll encounter ceviche, fresh fish cured in a spicy mix of lime juice, red onion and cilantro.
Several hours’ drive from the capital city is the coastal city of Paracas, known for its towering sand dunes and remarkable wildlife. Here you’ll embark to the Ballestas Islands and witness marine species like Humboldt penguins, Guanay cormorants, and sea lions. Paracas also serves as the perfect base for a quick flight above the legendary Nazca Lines.
Incan Treasures: Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
The area surrounding the Incan capital city of Cusco is at the heart of any journey to Peru. Abound in ruins from Cusco’s historic center to the Sacred Valley (most notably Ollantaytambo) to Machu Picchu, the region is unmatched in historical richness. Indigenous culture is an integral part of the experience throughout the Sacred Valley as local communities warmly share their traditions. For those more active, Sacred Valley and beyond offers endless ways in which to explore the breathtaking landscapes, from mountain biking to stand up paddle. The region’s hiking is some of the best in South America, from off the beaten path Machu Picchu treks to world-class summits like Ausangante.
Peruvian Amazon
Peru is home to both the Amazon River and Amazon Rainforest, a distinct characteristic that provides for exceptional opportunities to explore this unique ecosystem. From the northern city of Iquitos travelers board luxury river cruises that go deep into the heart of the Amazon River, blending both natural and cultural activities. Further south near Puerto Maldonado, the Amazon Rainforest sits along the Madre de Dios River. Here you’ll find exceptional eco lodges deep in the heart of the jungle with adventures abound.
Amazon
Southern Peru’s Colors and Landscapes: Arequipa, Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca
Home to the Andean condor and boasting canyons nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Arequipa region is unmissable for those interested in culture and landscape. The city of Arequipa is best known for its white-washed colonial architecture and acts as the perfect entry point to Colca Canyon, home to hot springs, Incan ruins and a wide array of additional outdoor activities.
Heading east is Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest body of water and thought to be the birthplace of Incan civilization. Like Arequipa, Lake Titicaca offers the ideal blend of natural splendor and rich culture. Visit the lake’s floating islands where you’ll discover the region’s indigenous past or experience the more adventurous activities Titicaca has to offer like cycling or rafting through reeds.
Travel Guide
Similar to Ecuador, Peru is a country that can be explored nearly completely within two weeks and as such is a wonderful standalone destination. However, for those with more time or interested in only one or two regions of Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos do serve as the perfect complement due to their proximity. Lima also offers direct flights to Iguassu Falls, allowing for an easy transition to Brazil or Argentina. Thanks to new nonstop service between Cusco and Santiago, Chile is another fantastic option. For those in the Lake Titicaca region, it is easy to cross into Bolivia and make your way to Uyuni and the salt flats. All US carriers offer direct flights to Lima.
All Peru Itineraries
12 days / 11 nights
The ultimate lodge-to-lodge trek and cultural experience to Machu Picchu on the challenging Salkantay trek through the Peruvian Andes, followed by an enriching wildlife experience in the Peruvian Amazon.