You will fly to Lima and arrive in Peru's capital either the same day or early the following morning. If your flight lands today, your guide will give you a warm welcome, and you will spend the night in Lima. (Distance: approx. 20 km; Travel time: approx. 1 hour)

If your flight arrives in Lima this morning, you'll have plenty of time to join your tour group for today's program. The day begins with a scenic drive through Peru's vibrant capital, exploring the trendy Miraflores district, where your hotel is located. You'll pass by the district's main square and the Huaca Pucallana archaeological site, where you can take photos from the outside, before heading to downtown Lima and continuing your exploration of the historic center on foot. You'll take a guided tour of the famous San Francisco Monastery, visit the Plaza de Armas and Plaza San Martín, and pass by the impressive cathedral. Around 30% of Peru's population lives in this vibrant capital, a melting pot of diverse cultures. In Plaza San Martín, you'll have free time for lunch to grab a bite or pick up some snacks for the rest of your trip. How about some empanadas, for example? Next, you'll travel along the legendary Pan-American Highway to Paracas. Enjoy typical Peruvian snacks along the way, courtesy of your guide, and listen to some interesting anecdotes. Take a moment to admire the breathtaking scenery from the window, and before you know it, you'll arrive in Paracas. Tonight, you'll stay at a charming beachfront hotel. Settle in and enjoy the hotel's amenities. At sunset, you'll join the group and enjoy a traditional Pisco Sour or a refreshing drink on the beach. Savor the beverage and get ready for the adventures ahead. 1 night in Paracas. (B) (Distance: approx. 230 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)

In the morning, a boat trip awaits you to the Ballestas Islands, part of the Paracas National Reserve and renowned for their rich biodiversity. From the boat, you'll have the opportunity to spot pelicans, cormorants, and sea lions, among other wildlife. You might even encounter Humboldt penguins, which have chosen the islands as their home due to the cool ocean currents. You'll also be able to admire an exceptionally large drawing in the sand, the so-called Candelabra Drawing, whose origin and meaning scientists still don't fully understand. Afterward, you'll continue to Nazca. Along the way, you'll stop at the Huacachina Oasis, a lush green oasis surrounded by date palms and nestled among 100-meter-high sand dunes. Take out your camera and stroll through the oasis. In Ica, you'll learn more about the production of Peru's national drink at a pisco distillery and taste this liquor, made primarily from Muscat grapes, which you sampled the previous evening in the form of a Pisco Sour. Upon arrival in Nazca, you will have the opportunity to explore the famous and unique Nazca Lines from an aerial perspective in a small plane (optional, book on site, approx. 35 min., cost approx. €115, subject to weather conditions). Among the most well-known figures of the Nazca Lines are the hummingbird, the astronaut, and the monkey. If you wish, you can spend time at the small airport watching the planes take off and land, or relax at the hotel. Overnight in Nazca. (B) (Distance: approx. 220 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)

Prepare for a long day on the bus, but it's well worth it! The extensive and scenic route along the Pan-American Highway, which skirts the only coastal desert outside of Africa, includes frequent stops at breathtaking landscapes with spectacular views. You'll pass through olive groves in Yauca, traverse deserts and valleys, and travel along the dramatic coastline, enjoying beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean in the coastal towns of Chala and Camaná. Here, you'll also have the opportunity to stop for lunch at a local restaurant or grab a snack and stretch your legs. Prepare to enjoy engaging conversations with your guide and fellow travelers along the way. Listen attentively as your guide shares insights into the country and its people, plays music, and perhaps introduces you to a classic of Peruvian literature. Afterward, you can pick up a good book or listen to an interesting podcast, and the time on the Pan-American Highway will fly by. In the evening you will arrive in Arequipa, Peru's second-largest city, and check into your hotel in the city center. You will spend the next two nights here. (F) (Distance: approx. 600 km; Travel time: approx. 11-13 hours depending on traffic conditions)

Today's tour is dedicated entirely to the city of Arequipa. Arequipa is also known as the "White City" because of the light-colored volcanic rock from which many of its buildings were constructed. On a city tour, you will explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. You will begin in the main square, one of the most beautiful in Peru, with its 19th-century cathedral that houses magnificent gold and silver treasures. On a side street near the Plaza de Armas, you will visit the former Jesuit church of La Compañía, whose magnificent facades and intricately carved columns with spiral motifs make it one of the most beautiful churches in the country. A stroll through the grand 17th-century Monastery of Santa Catalina will allow you to learn about its more than 400 years of history; it has been open to visitors since 1970. Mid-morning, you'll visit the traditional San Camilo market, where you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about Peruvian medicinal plants, and discover regional products. Have you heard of tumbo, lúcuma, or granadilla? Your guide will buy a selection of local fruits for you, and you can sample them at your leisure. After that, the rest of the day is yours! Stroll through the city and explore freely, or join your guide at the "Andean Sanctuaries" museum, where you can admire the famous ice mummy Juanita (optional). (F)

In the morning, you leave the city and take one last look at Arequipa from the Yanahuara viewpoint. Goodbye Arequipa, and off to the pampas! You continue your journey towards the Colca Valley. The varied route takes you through the vast high-altitude plains of Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Park, home to numerous alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. You can observe these adorable animals from the road during a brief photo stop. The highest viewpoint on today's route, the Mirador de los Andes, sits at an altitude of approximately 4,900 meters and promises breathtaking views of the Colca Valley and the Andes Mountains. It's a good idea to take it easy today, as the altitude of your destination should not be underestimated. In the Andes, coca leaves have been traditionally used in various ways to counteract and alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. A classic option is tea made with coca leaves, and your tour guide will also be happy to offer you coca candies and chocolate to try. The main attraction of the valley is the Colca Canyon, which, at approximately 4,100 meters deep, is one of the deepest canyons in the world. Upon arrival in the Colca Valley (3,600 meters), you will have the opportunity to enjoy a light lunch in Chivay, the valley's capital, before checking into your hotel. To end the day, we will take you to the nearby hot springs. Enjoy the thermal waters and acclimatize to the altitude before spending a relaxing afternoon at your hotel. Overnight in the Colca Valley. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 250 km; travel time: approx. 5 hours)

Getting up early today is well worth it! Around 5:00 a.m., you can have breakfast at your hotel and then head to the canyon, specifically to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, which you'll reach after about an hour's drive. At this popular spot, the magic of Peru becomes palpable. You'll enjoy magnificent views of the spectacular canyon and the terraced fields clinging to the steep slopes. And to top it all off, with a bit of luck, you might spot the majestic Andean condors, the largest flying birds in the world, as they soar majestically through the canyon, propelled by thermal currents. A natural spectacle that can only be witnessed in a few places on Earth. Combined with a short stroll around the expansive viewpoint, you'll be able to soak up the magic and special atmosphere of this unique place. On the return journey, you'll pass through several traditional villages in the valley, where life and customs have barely changed since Inca times. Depending on the schedule, you'll stop in Chivay for lunch or bring your own. Afterward, you'll continue your journey to Lake Titicaca. You'll stop at a local restaurant to prepare for the altitude with a cup of Inca mint tea, known locally as Muña tea. With a bit of luck, you might even spot Andean flamingos along the way. You'll arrive in the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, and check into your lakeside hotel. Two nights at Lake Titicaca. (Breakfast/Lunch)

After breakfast, you'll embark on a boat trip across the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca. Your first stop, after a journey of approximately 20 minutes, will be at the floating totora reed islands of the traditional Uros people. Both the islands and the structures built upon them are made from totora reeds that grow directly on the lake's shore. Your guide will be happy to explain how they are crafted. After a brief stop at one of the Uros Islands, you will continue your boat trip across the lake and arrive at the Capachica Peninsula after approximately 1.5 hours. In Llachón, a member of the community will accompany you on a tour of the village, where you will learn more about the traditional way of life of the locals. For lunch, you will be hosted by a local family who will offer you traditional delicacies. You will be able to sample a typical regional soup and grilled trout with tasty side dishes. The family will also demonstrate local crafts such as soap making and weaving. Afterward, you will walk back to the boat and arrive in Puno after a boat trip of approximately 2 hours. Relax at your hotel for the rest of the day. If you are looking for a restaurant for dinner, your guide will be happy to provide recommendations. (B/L)

Early in the morning, you'll leave Lake Titicaca behind and drive through traditional Andean villages, passing the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota Range, towards the Urubamba Valley. Today's long journey includes several interesting stops. If you get hungry, you can stop for a bite at the local restaurant "El Cordero Macho" and try the typical dish "Cancacho," pork or lamb roasted over wood and hot bricks, accompanied by various side dishes. After another leg of the journey, you'll stop in Raqchi to explore the Inca ruins of the same name (3,500 m). You'll also visit the magnificent 17th-century colonial church in Andahuaylillas, which, with its splendid interior and remarkable frescoes by local artists, is often called the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes." There will also be time to chat with your guide and fellow travelers, and you can continue reading your travel books and listening to your podcasts. In the evening, you will arrive in the sacred Urubamba Valley, where you will spend the next two nights. (F/S) (Distance traveled: approx. 450 km; travel time: approx. 10 hours)

The Sacred Valley of the Incas owes its name to the Spanish, who admired the high productivity the Incas achieved in the region thanks to their skillful terrace farming. With its fertile soil, relatively sheltered location, and constant supply of mountain water, the Sacred Valley was ideal as an agricultural production center for the Incas. At a typical Urubamba market, you can interact with the locals and stroll leisurely among the stalls, admiring the local produce. Your guide will arrange to buy the ingredients for a small picnic, but we'll talk about that later. At the agricultural terraces of Moray, which once served as a research center for the Incas, you'll learn more about local terrace farming. Next, you'll visit the Maras salt mines, where the famous Maras salt is still extracted using traditional methods. Afterward, you'll hike down to the valley from the salt mines (approximately 30 to 45 minutes). Along the way, your guide will choose a suitable spot in nature for your picnic, where you can enjoy the food you've brought from the market. You'll be able to sample typical regional bread, cheese, and ham, as well as roasted corn, nuts, and other local snacks. On your way back to the hotel, you'll also stop at a local family's home and have the opportunity to taste the traditional corn beer "Chicha de Jora". (F/P) (Distance: approx. 120 km; Travel time: approx. 2 hours)

Continue your journey and make your first stop at the Chinchero market. Still looking for souvenirs for your loved ones? Then this is the place! The journey then continues to the town of Ollantaytambo, which has preserved much of its tradition and where little has changed since Inca times. After a stroll through its winding streets and a visit to the fortress that once defended the Sacred Valley, you will have free time in the town to have a light lunch or buy snacks for the train journey. Next, you'll board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, now officially known as Machu Picchu Village. The journey will take you through beautiful landscapes, past small streams and towering cliffs. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel at the foot of Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes is quite small, so you can stroll around the town in the evening and have dinner at a restaurant before turning in early, presumably to be well-rested for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day. Overnight in Aguas Calientes. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 50 km; travel time: approx. 1.5 hours; train journey: approx. 1.5 hours)

The highlight of your trip to Peru awaits: Machu Picchu! Even in the early morning hours, you'll enjoy the mystical atmosphere of the lost city of the Incas, still shrouded in mist. During a guided tour, you'll explore, among other sites, the main plaza, the round tower, the sacred sundial, the royal chambers, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the cemetery*. On this day, we also offer you the option of climbing Huayna Picchu. This is the most famous mountain in the complex (the summit of the citadel). Access is limited to 150 tickets per day, and access times are also regulated. The ascent of Huayna Picchu involves climbing steep stairs and steps of varying heights (approximately 1,600 steps to the top!) and is demanding, especially in adverse weather conditions. Therefore, it is essential to be in good physical condition and not suffer from vertigo. If you wish to undertake this undoubtedly worthwhile climb, which rewards you at the end with an unforgettable view of the entire citadel and the surrounding mountains, please book your ticket in advance through SKR (optional, €90 per person, limited availability, book upon check-in; please note that Huayna Picchu is open year-round, but spontaneous closures may occur due to weather conditions). After visiting Machu Picchu, especially for those who didn't choose to climb Huayna Picchu and have more time, you can return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can explore the area. If you prefer some peace and quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, you can also walk back (distance: approx. 7-8 km; time: approx. 90 minutes). Once the group is complete, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo. There, your bus will be waiting to take you to Cusco. You will spend two nights in Cusco. (F) (Train journey: approx. 1.5 hours; distance: approx. 120 km; travel time: approx. 4 hours) Please note that, due to legal regulations, entry time to Machu Picchu is limited to 2.5 hours. Visitors are distributed along different routes, each with its own unique charm. This allows for better coordination of visitor flow and the protection of the ruins.

Cusco (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Andean city of 350,000 inhabitants and the ancient heart of the Inca Empire, awaits you! Enjoy a wealth of pre-Columbian and colonial remains, as well as a charming old town. On this walking tour, you'll begin your stroll in the Plaza de Armas, the main square, with its cathedral, one of the largest churches in South America. A true gem on the outside, its interior is even more magnificent. The silver high altar and the splendidly carved choir stalls create a truly breathtaking sight. Your walk will then take you to the charming artists' quarter of San Blas, which offers a beautiful view of Cusco. You'll also visit the Temple of the Sun and have the opportunity to interact with locals as you wander through the bustling San Pedro Market. In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to explore Cusco, one of Peru's most beautiful cities, on your own. You can buy some last-minute souvenirs or simply sit in the Plaza de Armas to observe the vibrant activity and soak up the city's unique atmosphere. In the evening, you'll gather at a traditional restaurant for a farewell dinner and reminisce about the many memorable moments of your trip. (B/L/D)

After saying goodbye to your guide, you will fly to Puerto Maldonado. Traveling through the dense rainforest, you will first arrive at the indigenous community of Infierno, where you will be provided with a packed lunch. Afterward, you will continue by boat deeper into the Amazon rainforest. After a journey of approximately 45 minutes, you will arrive at your accommodation: the Posada Amazonas Lodge, located about 40 meters above the river and accessible only by stairs. You will settle into your bungalows and receive a fascinating introduction to local ecotourism projects. Three nights' accommodation. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

The next two days will be dedicated to the impressive flora and fauna of the rainforest. After a leisurely breakfast, you will travel to Lake Tres Chimbadas. There you may observe caimans, hoatzins, and, with a bit of luck, even giant otters in their natural habitat. After a hearty lunch at your accommodation, you'll have the opportunity to learn fascinating facts about the region's medicinal plants. At Centro Nape, a local organization, you can observe how these medicines are prepared. The best part of the day comes at nightfall! On a night hike, you'll hear the calls of birds, frogs, and monkeys. Get closer to nature than ever before (easy, approx. 1.5 hours, optional). (F/M/A)

Clay deposits are known to attract flocks of parrots at certain times of the year. This morning you will visit the "Parrot Clay Deposit" and see how the birds ingest minerals from the clay that forms there, which they need to detoxify the pollutants they have ingested through their food. Later, you'll enjoy a boat ride upriver, followed by an easy hike (approximately 1.5 km, lasting about 45 minutes). During the hike, you'll see, among other things, the largest tree in the area: the giant ceiba. Your guide will be happy to tell you about the history of the rainforest and the ethnic groups that live there. In the afternoon, a visit will be made to a farm in the municipality of Infierno, where they will learn about the importance of the region's diverse plant species. A farewell dinner will provide an opportunity to reflect on the enriching experiences of the past few days. (D/A/C)

Today you leave the jungle! After breakfast, you'll be taken to Puerto Maldonado airport and from there you'll fly back to Europe via Lima. (F)

You will land back in Europe in the morning.