Taste of Peru & Chile

Itinerary

3 Nights – Lima
5 Nights – Cuzco (Machu Picchu)
6 Nights – Santiago, Valparaíso, Beaches & Vineyards

Great Optional Extension: Start in Buenos Aires or finish in Rio de Janeiro.

✈ UK – Lima (3 Nights): You’ll start your journey flying to Peru’s coastal capital city of Lima, where we’ll transfer you to your hotel. Lima is a melting pot of modern-day urbanisms, colonial-era mansions, vibrant markets and nightlife. Historic squares and cathedrals fill El Centro’s streets, where ceviche restaurants contribute to Lima’s status as “gastronomic capital of the Americas”. There’s romance and greenery at the Parque del Amor, ancient temple ruins at Huaca Huallamarca, bohemian flair in Mirador and plenty of cobbled charm in the Barranco beach district. Visit the Museo Larco, meander grand lawns at the Plaza Mayor and take in the city’s iconic canary yellow facades. Fresh markets, historic monasteries and an exciting Chinatown make Lima fascinating. You’ve got 3 whole nights to taste it.

✈ Lima – Cuzco (5 Nights): You’ll fly direct from Lima to Cuzco, the gateway to the mesmerising Inca trail that is one of the 7 New Wonders of the World. Spend the first few days here relaxing and exploring Cuzco, allowing your body to acclimatise to the 3,399-metre altitude, but there’s plenty to do while you adjust. Snug in the Andean mountain valley, Cuzco’s baroque squares and cobbles are filled with fresh markets, food vendors and bustling locals in indigenous garb. Two magnificent churches flank the main Plaza de Armas, while traditional cafes dot nearby thoroughfares. Whether you’re exploring the Inca site of Sacsayhuamán two miles north or just soaking in the Quechua culture, you’ll be surrounded by authenticity. Listen to the locals when they offer you that hot coca tea for altitude adjustment.

🚌 Incas Sacred Valley Day Trip: Once you’re a little more acclimatised you will do this amazing day trip to discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Explore some of the most well known sites associated with this mysterious civilisation and take in the stunning Andean landscapes that surround it.

🚂 Machu Picchu Day Trip: The highlight for many here is the 26-mile Machu Picchu trail, which we include as a day tour by rail , but we can also arrange for you to trek the trail. Beautifully preserved Inca culture here is showcased in sights such as the Temple of the Sun, Sun Gate and The Sacred Rock. Cascading terraces frame this 7 New Wonders of the World citadel, and brave travellers can hike up the demanding Huayna Picchu (where the photo ops are legendary).

✈ Cuzco – Santiago (2-3 Nights): Next you will fly to Chile’s capital, Santiago, although it’s up to you how you split your stay in Chile. We recommend staying 3 nights in Santiago first. Framed by the famous San Cristóbal and Santa Lucía hills, Santiago is known for its 22 funiculars and rewarding, high-perched views. Stroll the bohemian Barrio Bellavista neighbourhood and visit the Catedral Metropolitana shadowing the main Plaza de Armas square. Shopaholics and spice lovers are catered-to at endless malls and markets.

Santiago – Valparaíso / Viña del Mar (3-4 nights) – Optional wine tour: Next we’ll drive you to the coast for the perfect relaxing end to your South American adventure. You can either stay in Valparaíso or Viña del Mar, or even split your stay, however they are close and connected by a tram, so it’s easy to base yourself in one location and explore both destinations.

The UNESCO world heritage city of Valparaíso is known for its bohemian culture, brightly painted houses and beautiful coastal setting. You can explore the city’s famous street art and hill-set neighbourhoods of Cerro Alegre and Concepción, and enjoy its endless array of restaurants and bars.  The neighbouring beachside city of Viña del Mar boasts a long golden beach, lined with restaurants and larger hotels.

Vineyard Tours & Wine Tasting: Something that is also highly recommend is a visit to one of Chile’s famous wine regions for a day of wine tasting.  This can be done as a day trip from Santiago, however another great option that we can arrange is to explore the wine region between Santiago and the coast when we drive you to Valparaíso. On the way we’ll stop at 2 or 3 vineyards for you to tour the estates, taste their wines, and at one you’ll be able to enjoy lunch, before continuing your journey to the coast.

Valparaíso / Viña del Mar – UK: We’ll meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your direct flight back to the UK.