Uncovering Peru

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Amazon Basin and Lima

Most travelers associate Peru with the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, but as the third largest country in South America, its offerings are as diverse as the country is vast. Highlights include unforgettable natural beauty and a population that is kind, welcoming and culturally rich.

For first-time visitors to Peru, the southern part...

of the country is a good place in which to start your honeymoon or other special trip. After arriving on your overnight flight to Lima, take a morning flight to Cusco. Here you will spend a couple nights acclimating to the altitude (11,000 feet / 3350 m) and exploring this charming and colorful mountain town. Your first full day, we'll arrange an indigenous guide to help you unlock Cusco's colonial history, as well as take you to some of the ruins outside the town, so the pre-Columbian era can come to life for you as well.

While no doubt you are eager to reach Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is a worthwhile experience en route to the ancient citadel. Your first experiences in the Valley will be cultural – you'll visit weavers who make exquisite handicrafts and local shops making chicha, a popular local beverage made from fermented corn. Have lunch in the town of Pisac, known for its colorful local markets and Incan ruins. You'll do this en route to the charming Sol y Luna, a collection of rondavel rooms and suites that exude charm and attention to detail. The setting is so stunning that you'll surely want to venture outdoors; during your full day in the Valley we'll arrange your choice of mountain biking, hiking, riding or whitewater rafting, or possibly a visit to the hillside saltpans – all options are worthwhile!

Photographers and others alike get ready, as you are now...

en route to Aguas Calientes by Vistadome train, where you'll spend two days at one of the most important archeological destinations in the world, "The Lost City of the Incas", Machu Picchu. Your base will be the outstanding Machu Picchu Pueblo Lodge, slightly outside the village. On your arrival afternoon relax in their spa and take it easy; the next day will be a busy one! After a gorgeous dinner and a good night's sleep, it's up early to visit the Incan citadel where you'll be paired with a fantastic local guide to make the ruins and their history come alive – envision where the ruling elite lived in comfort, where the merchants traded and how the everyday citizen when about their days. If you are inclined, the trek up Huyna Picchu, the mountain behind the Citadel, is amazing. It is strenuous and requires advance permits, but for those who make the ascent, the view back to the ruins it is worth every ounce of effort.

Peru is an incredibly diverse country, and after...

Machu Picchu, you'll be treated to a well-kept secret. With a train back to Cusco and onward flights to Lima and Iquitos, you'll embark the Delfin I, a newly-refurbished luxury riverboat with just four ensuite cabins, each with its own terrace; yours will even have a plunge pool! The comfort and the indigenous beauty of the vessel are not the only aspect you'll enjoy – each day you'll have up to 3 excursions on the river and its banks (any of them optional if you'd rather relax), in search of three-toed sloths, caiman, and pink dolphins, among others. Your guides have grown up in this area, and you'll have opportunities to visit a local village with them to meet the people, their families, and catch a glimpse of their existence in the jungle.

Your journey's last stop is Lima, a city...

rich in history and now ever richer in cuisine. After a lovely night's sleep at the Miraflores Park Hotel, where your suite will overlook the Pacific Ocean, you'll be treated to a day exploring Lima's recent food Renaissance. Your guide will start by taking you to a typical market to learn about local fish, vegetables and fruit, tasting along the way. Next you'll have a hands-on lesson in how to make "ceviche" at one of Lima's best seafood restaurants. Don't forget the beverages – it's on to a local tavern to try your skill at making the national drink, the Pisco Sour. Finally, you'll have a late lunch, sampling more traditional dishes and desserts. If you can manage dinner, we'll make sure you have a reservation at one of the up and coming hot spots featuring Peruvian fusion cuisine.

Your final day a private driver is at your disposal to explore Lima to your hearts' content, whether that's shopping at original boutiques, visiting the exotic Gold Museum, or a dining on a great steak prior to your evening flight home. At today's conclusion, you'll look back over your travels and somehow feel you're returning as slightly different people, having left some of your old selves in Peru, yet returning with fresh perspectives on life from this amazing country.

Who will enjoy this trip:

Those who enjoy interacting with local people and local culture. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Foodies will love the up and coming foodie scene. People who are looking for a jungle or mountain experience. Those with Machu Picchu on their bucket list. History buffs with a penchant for ancient societies. Those seeking good value for money in their South American travels.

Who should avoid this trip:

People who require absolute luxury the entire trip. Those who suffer badly from altitude sickness. Peru is a touring destination, so if you prefer to simply relax, Brazil could be a better solution.