Peru with Machu Picchu a Women-Only Tour
Peru with Machu Picchu a Women-Only Tour
Peru with Machu Picchu a Women-Only Tour
10 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Cusco, Peru
Visiting: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Tour operator:
Tour code:
XZPERN26
Specialist Group:
Women Only
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable women-only journey through Peru, exploring the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of this vibrant country. Begin in Lima, where you'll delve into the city's colonial past and visit the renowned Museo Larco. Travel to the Sacred Valley, discovering ancient Incan sites and traditional Quechua weaving techniques. Experience the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu with guided tours and leisure time to explore at your own pace. In Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, enjoy a mix of cultural activities, including visits to local markets, art galleries, and a planetarium. Conclude your adventure with a memorable celebration dinner, toasting to new friendships and incredible experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: MGallery Manto, Lima
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive in Lima for the first day of your journey. Dubbed “City of the Kings,” the historic center of Lima was founded by Spanish conqueror Francisco Pizarro in January 1535 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After you’re met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, unwind before celebrating your first night with your Travel Director and fellow travelers this evening over dinner and drinks.
Day 2: Explore Lima Relaxed Start
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: MGallery Manto, Lima
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore the coastal, colorful capital of Peru with your Local Expert and fellow female travelers. Delve into its colonial past and see key attractions, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall. Visit Casa Aliaga, an impressive mansion that has been home to the Aliaga family for generations, for a tour with Wilma Ehni de Aliaga. Art lovers will enjoy experience at the Museo Larco where an archaeologist will share her knowledge of the museum as you indulge in lunch against a backdrop of an 18th-century garden. After lunch, meet a Local Expert who will show you Museo Larco, highlighting women’s impact and the museum’s private collection. End your day by delving into Peruvian culture and ancient history.
Day 3: Lima To Sacred Valley
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation Name: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, Urubamba
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, catch your flight to the ancient capital of Cusco. Begin your tour of the Sacred Valley while taking in impressive views on your scenic drive along the way. Indulge your curiosity learning how its lower elevation and fertile land for growing crops, including corn, potatoes and quinoa, made it a revered location for the Incas. After a few stunning photo stops, enjoy lunch at Altar Inca, perched above a valley surrounded by some of the most impressive views of the region. Enjoy a leisurely trip to your hotel for the next couple of nights, the luxurious Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel, where the evening is yours to do as you please. We recommend that you rest to adjust to the altitude comfortably.
Day 4: Explore Sacred Valley Relaxed Start
Location: Sacred Valley
Accommodation Name: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, Urubamba
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
With curiosity and confidence, visit the Maras salt pans where the Incas harvested their salt. Learn how today the salt from Maras is exported to the entire world. Then move on to an Incan laboratory in Moray, an archaeological site close to Cusco, to find out more about the ideal altitude to grow crops in the Sacred Valley. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience visiting a local traditional Quechua weaver in the Sacred Valley to learn about the importance these textiles have in shaping personal and regional identities. Afterward, make your way to Laguna Piuray where you’ll enjoy a Pachamanca, a traditional Peruvian feast, for your lunch. In the evening, transfer to Hacienda Huayoccari to discover this gem of the Sacred Valley while exploring its grounds and small museum. Conclude the day by sitting down to a Farm-to-Table Peruvian dinner.
Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: Sumaq Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a grand adventure beginning with an IncaRail train ride. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the scenic journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo, the gateway village to Machu Picchu. On the way, visit the Ollantaytambo ruins – a town and archaeological site that was both a fortress and a temple – followed by a stop at a local house in the village’s cobblestoned old town and a visit with a local family. In the afternoon, visit Machu Picchu where you’ll meet your Local Experts for a guided visit in small groups with like-minded travelers. Explore the iconic ruins as you learn about their historical and archaeological significance as well as the importance of their location. Set high in the Andes Mountains, the ruins offer spectacular scenery and history dating back to the 15th century. End your day with a relaxing dinner and drinks at your hotel.
Day 6: Machu Picchu At Leisure
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: Sumaq Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your in-depth journey of Peru continues as you take in the breathtaking landscapes discovering Machu Picchu on your own. Spend the morning exploring at your own pace, with your Travel Director on-hand to answer any queries you may have. The afternoon is yours at leisure. Relax back at your hotel or perhaps explore the town of Aguas Calientes. Named for the hot springs north of the town, Aguas Calientes is also home to a handicraft market and the Allcamayo waterfall surrounded by exotic trees, butterflies and orchids. Spend the evening as you please before sitting down to dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day 7: On To Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: JW Marriott El Convento, Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
More sights and insights await returning by train to Ollantaytambo where you will transfer to the ancient city of Cusco. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco showcases a mix of Spanish colonial architecture, ancient remains and a lively cosmopolitan scene. Join a walking tour with a Local Expert to see its cathedral and the Qorikancha temple, the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Enhance your day by visiting the hand-picked Mantay store, one of four stores in Cusco that support the Mantay project of underaged, often abused, mothers and their young children by providing a home and education. With an evening free to explore, consider asking your Travel Director for recommendations to discover more about this ancient city.
Day 8: Exploring Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: JW Marriott El Convento, Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Peru’s Incan history and archaeology will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. Start your day with a walking tour of Sacsayhuaman, a citadel built during the reign of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the ninth Sapa Inca of the Kingdom of Cusco. Deepen your discoveries with Insight Choice. Opt to join a Local Expert on a guided hike of the Inca ruins at Puca Pucara. Alternatively, explore the artisan bohemian neighborhood of San Blas and visit the prestigious art galleries. After lunch at Pachapapa, visit San Blas Church and the surrounding streets before making your way to San Pedro Market to delight your senses with an array of local produce. At the city’s planetarium, discover the insights of astronomy, cosmology and its influence on Andean culture on a private, after-hours tour. Conclude a memorable day delighting your taste buds as you try local delicacies paired with hot wine.
Day 9: Leisure Time In Cusco Relaxed Start
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: JW Marriott El Convento, Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
No visit to Peru is complete without sampling local chocolate. Join an optional visit to the ChocoMuseo where you’ll learn more about the chocolate-making process and the cacao bean, the seed of the cacao tree used to make chocolate. Or, perhaps relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel. Set in a beautiful 16th-century building, make the most of this boutique hotel’s signature spa and Andean-inspired healing treatments, massages, facials and custom spa packages. In the evening, join your fellow female travelers for a memorable dinner at the Inka Grill restaurant where you will toast to your adventures and lifelong friendships formed.
Day 10: Depart Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
It is time to say goodbye as your trip through Peru with like-minded women comes to an end. Conclude your journey taking a private transfer to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport.
What's Included
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Meals
5 dinners with wine, 9 breakfasts, and 4 lunches are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours of key attractions including the Cathedral of Lima, Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, City Hall, and more.
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Local Expert Guides
Local experts will guide you through various sites including Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Sacred Valley.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Baggage Handling
Baggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.
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Travel Director
A highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless.
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Airport Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times for arrival and departure flights as per the itinerary.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided for visits to famous highlights.
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Internal Flights
Prices include economy air and air-related charges for flights between Lima and Cusco.
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Enhanced Hygiene Protocols
Enhanced hygiene protocols are in place, including freely available hand sanitizer.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a visit to the ChocoMuseo are 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 is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Additional Airport Transfers
Transfers for flights outside the scheduled times or additional nights' accommodation are not included.
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Medical Expenses
Medical expenses and consultations with a doctor are not included.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy seamless transportation with included economy flights between Lima and Cusco, scenic drives through the Sacred Valley, and a memorable IncaRail train ride to Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious accommodations including the MGallery Manto in Lima, Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness in Urubamba, Sumaq Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes, and JW Marriott El Convento in Cusco.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I expect in Cusco?
In Cusco, you can join a guided hike of the Inca ruins in Puca Pucara, explore the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas and visit prestigious art galleries, visit Cusco's planetarium to learn about how the Incas interpreted the stars, and enjoy a slow-cooked Cusquenian lunch at Pacha Papa. Additionally, you can visit the cathedral and the Qorikancha temple, and explore the San Pedro Market.
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What unique experiences are included in the Sacred Valley?
In the Sacred Valley, you will visit the Maras Salt Mine to learn about ancient salt harvesting techniques, explore the Moray Incan laboratory to understand how the Incas determined the ideal altitude to grow crops, and visit a local traditional Quechua weaver for a private textile presentation. You will also enjoy a traditional Peruvian feast called Pachamanca at Laguna Piuray and have a Farm-to-Table Peruvian dinner at Hacienda Huayoccari.
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What can I expect during the visit to Machu Picchu?
During the visit to Machu Picchu, you will take a 360° IncaRail train ride through the Andes Mountains, visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, and have a guided visit of Machu Picchu with a Local Expert. You will learn about the historical and archaeological significance of the ruins and enjoy the spectacular scenery. You also have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a different circuit or spend a day at leisure in Aguas Calientes.
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Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several special dining experiences such as a traditional Peruvian feast called Pachamanca at Laguna Piuray, a Farm-to-Table Peruvian dinner at Hacienda Huayoccari, a slow-cooked Cusquenian lunch at Pacha Papa, and a memorable Celebration Dinner at Inka Grill in Cusco. Additionally, you will have lunch at Museo Larco's 18th-century garden setting and a dinner that captures typical flavors of the Peruvian capital in Lima.
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What kind of support is provided during the tour?
The tour provides a highly-skilled Travel Director who will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organizer, and friend overseas. Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any commentary. Hotel and restaurant tips are included, and all taxes and porterage charges at hotels are covered. Additionally, enhanced hygiene protocols are in place, and hand sanitizer is freely available on board.
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What are the accommodation options during the tour?
The tour includes stays at luxurious accommodations such as MGallery Manto in Lima, Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness in Urubamba, Sumaq Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes, and JW Marriott El Convento in Cusco. These hotels offer a range of amenities and are selected to enhance your comfort and experience during the tour.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there is free time during the tour. For example, on Day 3, the evening is yours to do as you please at the Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel. On Day 6, you have the afternoon at leisure to explore Aguas Calientes or relax at your hotel. On Day 9, you have the option to visit the ChocoMuseo or enjoy the facilities at your hotel in Cusco.
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in Lima?
In Lima, you will explore the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and City Hall. You will visit Casa Aliaga for a tour with Wilma Ehni de Aliaga and experience Museo Larco with an archaeologist who will share insights into the museum's history and the role of women in ancient Peru. Additionally, you will delve into Peruvian culture and ancient history with a Local Expert.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 insight vacations 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.
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Terms and Conditions