Peru Splendors with Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Peru Splendors with Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Peru Splendors with Arequipa & Colca Canyon
11 Days Starting and ending in Lima, Peru
Visiting: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, South America
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SOE3-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Peru on the "Peru Splendors with Arequipa & Colca Canyon" tour. Begin your journey in Lima, exploring its colonial architecture and vibrant local markets. Travel to the Sacred Valley, where you'll witness ancient Inca sites and traditional weaving techniques. Experience the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas," and enjoy a scenic train ride through the lush Urubamba Valley. In Cusco, delve into the city's Inca and Spanish history before heading to Arequipa, the "White City," and marvel at its unique volcanic rock architecture. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the stunning Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, and observe the majestic Andean condors in their natural habitat. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable Peruvian experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Lima,Peru
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Select Miraflores
Meals Included: Breakfast
Upon arrival, you will be met by your Globus representative.
Day 2: Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Select Miraflores
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
LIMA Legendary LimaThis afternoon, your Local Guide focuses on the city’s colonial heritage during a walking tour. Start at the Plaza de Armas to see the Government Palace and the cathedral. From here, stroll to the venerable San Francisco Monastery with its splendid 17th-century cloister murals. For a special treat, [LF] stop at a local food market to get a real taste of life for the local people. This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Lima’s Peruvian restaurants with your fellow travel companions. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Stop for a real taste of Peru at a local market. Sample some of the local fruits and vegetable that aren’t found in other parts of the world. You can also find spices, meats, seafood, and even a souvenir or two. And you’ll definitely want to take some photos of the beautiful, brightly hued displays.
Day 3: Lima,Cusco,Sacred Valley
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Posadas del Inca - Sacred Valley - Yucay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
LIMA–CUSCO–SACRED VALLEY Empire of the AndesFly to Cusco, the impressive Andean city that was once the capital of the Inca Empire. Head into the Sacred Valley of the Incas and visit the semi-circular Kenko Amphitheater with its stone altars and labyrinth of passages and see the ancient site of Puca Pucara. Also, in the Sacred Valley, experience an [LF] El Pago a la Tierra, or Mother Earth Ceremony, performed by a local shaman. Meet local families who preserve the ancient technique of Pre-Columbian weaving using South American camelid fleece. This is your chance to get up close to the various camelids, including alpaca, llama, guanaco, and vicuña, indigenous to the region. Continue to Pisaq, an old mountain village, where you will have free time to shop for local wares, such as alpaca sweaters and blankets, jewelry, or hand-painted ornamental dishes and vases at its famous market. Stay in the Sacred Valley tonight, with dinner at the hotel. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & TRADITION Feel the earth, smell the coca leaves, and taste the chicha today as you make payment to Mother Earth. Participate in an [LF] El Pago a la Tierra, an ancient ceremony led by a shaman thanking Mother Earth and asking for good health, wealth, and safe travels. These mystical ceremonies have been practiced in Peru since before the arrival of the Incas.
Day 4: Sacred Valley,Machu Picchu
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: El Mapi by Inkaterra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
SACRED VALLEY–MACHU PICCHU Mystery on the MountainThis morning, visit the Inca Fortress of Ollantaytambo, followed by [LF] a visit to a local home, meet some of the area’s families, and experience their way of life in the Sacred Valley. Then, board the Vistadome train for a scenic journey through the lush Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival, ascend the mountainside to legendary Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Your Local Guide will introduce this intact fortress with its temple remains, holy houses, and mile-long aqueduct, and will bring you closer to the mysteries still hidden in these amazing structures. Tonight, you may wish to try a Pisco Sour (a traditional Peruvian cocktail) or an Inka Kola, before the included dinner. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE TIMELESS TRADITIONS Today, you are invited into a local family’s home in the Sacred Valley. Learn about their traditions like weaving that has been passed down for centuries from ancestors. See how they cook, live, sleep, work, and maybe ask about the cuy (Guinea pigs) they keep in their house.
Day 5: Machu Picchu,Cusco
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Hotel Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
MACHU PICCHU–CUSCO Here Comes the SunA morning at leisure in Machu Picchu allows you to wake up early to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu with your second included entrance to the ruins. After lunch at a local restaurant, return to the Sacred Valley by train and continue to Cusco. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORY & MYSTERY Staying overnight in Machu Picchu allows you to get up early and experience the ruins at their most pristine before the crowds arrive. Watch as the mist slowly burns off and the sun rays illuminate the ruins. While you are there, you may even want to try and get a selfie with one of the local llamas or alpacas!
Day 6: Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Hotel Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
CUSCO Sun Worship & Spanish Conquests On your guided sightseeing tour of Cusco today, learn more about the Inca and Spanish influence. Begin at the heart of Cusco in the Plaza de Armas (main square), with a visit to the imposing Cathedral, where construction began in 1550 and was finally completed 100 years later. Join a traditional [LF] Pasacalle through the streets of Cusco before continuing to Koricancha and the Santo Domingo Monastery and see how the two sites have become one. The Temple of the Sun at Koricancha was once the most important Inca site, dedicated to the worship of the Sun. The walls, altars, and decorations were all said to be covered in gold—until the Spaniards looted the temple and then built the contrasting Baroque Santo Domingo Monastery on top of the temple’s foundations. Also visit the Temple of Sacsayhuaman, perched on a hillside overlooking Cusco. It remains unfathomable how and when this fortress of gigantic stones—with some blocks weighing more than 350 tons—was built. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE CULTURE & TRADITION A special treat is in store for you when you are greeted by a group of Andean musicians dressed in vibrant Inca textiles. They will escort you on a Pasacalle (Andean Parade) through Cusco while playing traditional music and performing ancient dances—an experience you won’t soon forget!
Day 7: Cusco,Arequipa
Location: Arequipa
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
Meals Included: Breakfast
CUSCO–AREQUIPA Lava Love in PeruFly to Arequipa, known as the “White City,” as its buildings are made of sillar, a white volcanic rock found throughout the area. Upon arrival, a guided city tour of Arequipa shows off the Plaza de Armas, the cathedral, and the Jesuit Church, considered the best example of the mestizo baroque style. (B)Please note: the Tour Director does not accompany guests on extensions. Guided service is as outlined in the day by day itinerary.TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS Surrounded by three volcanos, Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city behind Lima. The city is built from volcanic material and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage city. Beyond the architecture, Arequipa is known for its authentic cuisine. Visit a local picanteria in the city and taste some of Peru’s best food.
Day 8: Arequipa,Colca Canyon
Location: Colca Canyon
Accommodation Name: Colca Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
AREQUIPA–COLCA CANYON Terrace Views Take a guided drive across Pampa Cañahuas within Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the habitat of vicuñas and a variety of birds. Admire beautiful Pre-Columbian terraces still being cultivated by native Collaguas. After lunch, arrive in Colca Canyon, an impressive geological formation carved out by the river. More than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is one of the deepest in the world. Observe the spectacular terracing, considered among the most extensive in southern Peru. These terraces, which allow cultivation and meticulously controlled irrigation of the steep slopes of the canyon, were built by natives between the 9th and 14th centuries. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Colca Lodge is nestled on the banks of the Colca River, surrounded by hundreds of pre-Inca platforms. Each room features stunning views of the Colca valley, gardens, and an occasional llama or alpaca. The hotel also is lucky enough to boast its own natural thermal pools - a perfect way to relax at the end of the day.
Day 9: Colca Canyon
Location: Colca Canyon
Accommodation Name: Colca Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
COLCA CANYON On Condors’ Wings This morning, enjoy a guided visit to the observation point of Condors’ Cross, for the chance to see Andean condors soaring in this native habitat. From here, also see the impressive Colca Canyon panorama. Next, visit the town of Yanque before returning to your hotel. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTWONDERS OF NATURE The Colca Canyon is home to the largest flying bird in the world, the condor. With wingspans of up to 11 feet, these massive vultures glide on the thermal updrafts along the canyon walls above the stunning landscapes of Arequipa. Don’t miss the chance to come eye to eye with these magnificent aerialists.
Day 10: Colca Canyon,Arequipa,Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Casa Andina Select Miraflores
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
COLCA CANYON–AREQUIPA–LIMA Homeward Bound Return to Arequipa and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Lima. Free time this evening. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTLOCAL TASTES Enjoy a last chance to enjoy the fantastic food of Peru with a last night in Lima. Toast the trip with a Pisco Sour, sip a spoonful of ceviche, or catch the fish of the day with a dish of fresh seafood.
Day 11: Lima
Location: Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at various hotels including Casa Andina Select Miraflores in Lima, Sonesta Posadas del Inca in Sacred Valley, El Mapi by Inkaterra in Machu Picchu, Sonesta Hotel Cusco in Cusco, Casa Andina Premium Arequipa in Arequipa, and Colca Lodge in Colca Canyon.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided sightseeing tours in Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Arequipa, and Colca Canyon.
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Local Experiences
Special local experiences such as a visit to a local food market in Lima, El Pago a la Tierra ceremony in Sacred Valley, and a Pisco Sour demonstration in Machu Picchu.
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Transportation
Transportation including flights from Lima to Cusco, Cusco to Arequipa, and Arequipa to Lima, as well as the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to various sites including Machu Picchu, San Francisco Monastery, and the Temple of Sacsayhuaman.
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Small Group Discoveries
Small-Group Discoveries limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Luggage Restrictions
Due to luggage restrictions on the train to Machu Picchu, only an overnight bag weighing no more than 11 pounds is allowed.
Main luggage will be stored at the Cusco hotel.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
Notes
Maximum enjoyment of this vacation requires walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge. Maximum elevation on this tour is approx.16,000 ft. People should be in relatively good shape to visit Arequipa and Colca Canyon due to high altitudes. Arequipa is approx. 7,808 feet and the road to Colca Valley has mountain passes which are approx. 16,000 ft. In Colca, where guests will overnight, the altitude is approx. 11,800 ft.
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all South America tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
City of Cusco|Historic Center of Lima|Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu|Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at Casa Andina Select Miraflores in Lima, Sonesta Posadas del Inca in Sacred Valley, El Mapi by Inkaterra in Machu Picchu, Sonesta Hotel Cusco in Cusco, Casa Andina Premium Arequipa in Arequipa, and Colca Lodge in Colca Canyon.
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with flights between major cities, scenic train rides through the Urubamba Valley, and comfortable coach transfers to various destinations including Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Colca Canyon.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of physical condition should participants be in for this tour?
Participants should be in relatively good shape to visit Arequipa and Colca Canyon due to high altitudes. The tour involves walking on cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and climbing stairs. Elevations exceeding 10,000 feet can make even modest exertion a challenge, with the maximum elevation on this tour being 16,000 feet.
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Are there any luggage restrictions for the overnight stay in Machu Picchu?
Yes, for the overnight stay in Machu Picchu, you will only be allowed to bring an overnight bag weighing no more than 11 pounds due to luggage restrictions on the train. Your main luggage will be stored at the Cusco hotel where you will return for an overnight the following night.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all South America tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. This ensures extra space between you and other travelers while still getting up close and personal to the experiences.
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What are some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites included in this tour?
The tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the City of Cusco, the Historic Center of Lima, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, and the Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes breakfast daily, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners.
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What can I expect during the visit to Colca Canyon?
During the visit to Colca Canyon, you will drive across Pampa Cañahuas within Aguada Blanca National Reserve, admire Pre-Columbian terraces, and visit the observation point of Condors’ Cross to see Andean condors soaring. You will also visit the town of Yanque and observe the impressive Colca Canyon panorama.
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What activities are planned for the day in Cusco?
In Cusco, you will have a guided sightseeing tour that includes visits to the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Koricancha, and the Santo Domingo Monastery. You will also join a traditional Pasacalle through the streets of Cusco and visit the Temple of Sacsayhuaman.
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What special experiences are included in the Sacred Valley?
In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the semi-circular Kenko Amphitheater, see the ancient site of Puca Pucara, experience an El Pago a la Tierra ceremony performed by a local shaman, and visit Awanakancha to meet local families who preserve ancient weaving techniques. You will also have free time to shop at the famous market in Pisac.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.