Peru Trips Archaeological

Assistance on your arrival in Lima and transfer to your selected hotel (Not included). Free time to rest and prepare for starting your trip around this unusual city and magical country. 

Meals Included: None 

Day 2:Pachacamác and Sightseeing Tour  

After breakfast, we take a 45-minute drive to the ancient pre-Columbian Pachacamác Pilgrimage Centre overlooking the fertile Valley of Lurin and the Pacific Ocean. Built around 700 AD, as a temple for worshipping the Sun God, the complex is mostly constructed from mud bricks or adobe. The Temple housed an oracle and is considered as one of the main ceremonial centres of pre-Hispanic Peru. Pilgrims flocked here from far and wide to worship Pachacamác, believed to be the Creator of the World and all of its creatures. The best preserved area is the Inca-built section (1440-1533). The archaeological site includes palaces, plazas and temples, that have been recently restored, and an on-site Museum housing interesting pre-Hispanic relics. Return to your hotel. After lunch (Not included), guided sightseeing tour to the most attractive and important sites in Lima, the "City of Kings". The tour includes Lima's Historical Centre, passing by Plaza San Martin, The Main Plaza, the Government Palace, the City Hall, the Cathedral and its Religious Art Museum, the Church of Santo Domingo, with the tombs of Santa Rosa and San Martin de Porras, and Lima's Colonial Balconies. 

We will visit the Convent and Church of San Francisco, the greatest monumental complex of Colonial Art in America and Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The tour includes a visit to the Basilica of 21 altars, Convent of Cloisters, Capitulary and Clementine Rooms, Chorus and Library of the Monks, a Museum showing 11 paintings of the Rubens School, the Sacristy with paintings of Surbaran and Ribera, its great patio decorated with Seville tiles of XVIth Century, Moorish arches and underground Catacombs.And finally we will go to the residential Districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, passing by the Huaca Pucllana, a Ceremonial and Administrative Centre of the Lima Culture built in the II Century A.C. that the Incas considered as "Ñaupallaqta" or Sacred Town. We will also visit El Olivar Park with olive trees brought from Spain in the XVth Century, the Central Park of Miraflores and Larcomar, a symbol of modern Lima and a tourist and entertainment centre as well as a privileged site to enjoy an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. Late afternoon transfer to the selected hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Early morning, transfer to Lima Airport to board your flight to Chiclayo (Not included). Meet upon arrival and transfer to your hotel.

Begin with an excursion to the impressive Necropolis of Huaca Rajada, a Mochica Funeral Centre where a great number of tombs have been discovered and where the tombs of the Old Lord of Sipan (3rd Century) and the Lord of Sipan (5th Century), famous for its objects in gold and semi-precious stones, were unearthed in the decade of 1980's by Peruvian archaeologists led by Dr. Walter Alva. In the afternoon, we will visit to the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum, where we will be able to appreciate a Lord of Sipan Tomb replica; additionally we will be able to see several ceramic pieces. Nowadays, this Museum is one of the best and most modern in South America. 

Meals Included: Breakfast 

After breakfast, we will leave for a visit to the Sicán Museum, which is located 36 km. Northeast and 20 minutes from Chiclayo where we will be able to appreciate different treasures from the Sicán Culture, which have been thoroughly studied by the famous archaeologist Dr. Isumi Shimada. The exhibit shows a recreation of the tomb, but it goes further than that and, at the same time, it shows an interpretation of society at that time, its artefacts, the daily life of its people and their ways of thinking. We will continue our excursion towards the Historical and Cultural Sanctuary of the Pómac Forest, located in the Village of Batangrande, District of Pitipo in the Province of Ferreñafe, where we will find a Pyramid Complex of 20 adobe Pyramids in an area covering 46 square kilometres, the most important of which are: Huaca de Oro, El Santillo de la Cruz, Horno de los Ingenieros, Las Abejas, etc. It is believed to have been the cradle of development of the Sican Culture. After lunch, we will visit the Archaeological Complex of Túcume, which on its 220 hectares holds up to 26 adobe Pyramids, and where we will find a Pyramid structure known as Huaca Larga, which length of 700 m, width of 280 m and height of 30 m makes it the largest of its kind in South America. After this we will pay a visit to the Brûning Museum, which contains valuable archaeological collections of the pre-Hispanic Cultures of Moche, Lambayeque or Sicán, Chimú and Inca. There is also an important Gold Collection with more than 500 gold pieces from Peru's ancient Cultures. Back to your hotel. 

Only Breakfast included.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

After breakfast, transfer to Trujillo in private car (2 hours 30 minutes approx.) en route we will visit the Archaeological Complex of El Brujo (the Shaman) containing three large buildings constructed in different eras: Huaca Prieta, the oldest construction on the Peruvian Coast; Huaca El Brujo, a Pyramid from the Mochica Culture and Huaca Cao Viejo, with an old Christian Church. Actually, scientific works are being done on its magnificent and recently discovered remains. Arrival and transfer to your hotel.We will visit the largest adobe Archaeological Complex of pre-Hispanic America, Chan Chan, ancient Capital of the Chimu Empire (13th Century), visiting the Templo del Arco Iris (Rainbow), the Site Museum and the Tshudi Palace. We will proceed to Huanchaco Beach, well frequented by beach-goers and surfers, where you will have the opportunity to appreciate the local fishermen surfing the waves in their traditional "Caballitos de Totora", Totora reed boats used for fishing since pre Inca times by Northern Peruvians. 

Meals Included: Breakfast 

After breakfast, we will make an excursion 15 minutes South of Trujillo to visit the enormous adobe constructions built by the Mochica Culture in the 5th Century, called Temple of the Sun, considered the largest adobe Pyramid in Peru, and the Temple of the Moon, housing an extensive burial ground and some fine polychrome murals in which their deity is often depicted. Is believed that both were complementary, one Administrative and the other Religious. Transfer to the Airport and assistance on your departure to Lima. Upon arrival, meet and transfer to your hotel (Not included). 

Meals Included: Breakfast

Early in the morning, leave Lima to the Paracas Peninsula, where we can find the most important Wildlife Sanctuary on the Peruvian Coast. Boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, where we can observe Sea lions, Boobies, Pelicans, Penguins and other Sea birds. On the way back, from the boat, we can also see the "Candelabro"(Candelabrum), a giant figure etched in the sand on the side of a hill in the style of the Nazca Lines.In the afternoon continue  to the City of Nazca for overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

After an early breakfast, transfer to Nazca Airport for a 45-minute flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines. These enormous lineal drawings of animals, birds and geometric figures remain etched in the desert and they can only be appreciated from the air.

At noon, travel to the City of Arequipa (About 8 hours) along the Desert and Coastal valleys.Arrival at the White City of Arequipa. It receives this name due to its white rock buildings, a white rock that flows out of the Misti Volcano. Upon your arrival in Arequipa, meet and transfer to the selected hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Morning sightseeing tour of Arequipa, including the Main Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Peru, and the Cathedral, a prime example of XIXth Century Peruvian architecture, housing beautiful treasures in gold and silver. We also visit the La Compañia Church, an ancient Jesuit temple, maybe the most important one in Arequipa due to its history and tradition, with a beautiful façade with carved columns, laurel crowns, flowers, birds, etc. A more careful look at the façade, however, reveals the limits of European influence, as the angels have Indian faces; and indeed one face is even crowned with feathers. Then, we will visit the Santa Catalina Convent, a "Small Town" built in the XVIIth Century and opened to the public in 1970, after 400 years as a Cloister. Perfectly preserved for four Centuries, you go back in time as you enter the Cloister and see the numerous, spacious patios and gardens, the kitchen and slave quarters and stone washtubs of this Convent. About 20 nuns, of what were once 500, still live in a section of the Convent. Transfer to your selected hotel and free time for lunch. We recommend the Sol de Mayo Restaurant. In the afternoon, tour of Arequipa's beautiful countryside, including the Mill of Sabandia, a still functioning flourmill built in 1621 powered by a nearby waterfall, and the Founder's Mansion, a fully restored XVIth Century Hacienda that belonged to the City's founder. Then it was sold to the Jesuits, who used it as a Retreat Centre, and finally passed on to the Goyeneche family. You will also visit its beautiful fully restored Church. Evening free. We suggest to dinner at the hotel and have an early night as the next day you will have an early-rising to begin your trip towards the Colca Canyon. 

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Early in the morning, depart on a wonderful four hours bus trip to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world (3400 mts.). On the trip we drive across Pampa Cañahuas in the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, inhabited by herds of Vicuñas and Alpacas (South American cameloids). We also see beautiful pre-Columbian terraces, still being cultivated by the native Collaguas. Box lunch. On your arrival at Colca Valley, transfer to the selected lodge.In the afternoon, we recommend you to rest and get used to the altitude. If you are in good shape, you will have free time to stroll around the lodge surroundings or you could take a repairing bath at the hot springs nearby the lodge. Dinner and overnight at selected lodge at the Colca Valley.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner 

We leave early in the morning to the "Condor's Cross", where the biggest bird in the world can be usually seen flying. On the way back we visit the Colonial Towns and Churches of Yanque, Coporaque, Achoma and Maca. Good opportunity to appreciate the life of these people that has changed little since Inca times.Lunch at a local restaurant.Late afternoon return to the  hotel in Arequipa.Evening free. We recommend to have dinner at the Sambambaia's or La Truffa restaurants. 

Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch 

Early morning transfer to Arequipa Airport to board your flight to Juliaca. Arrival and transfer to your hotel. On the way, we will visit the famous Chullpas of Sillustani: Stone cylinder Burial Chambers used by the Aymaras to bury their important leaders. Lake Umayo, located in front of the Chullpas, adds further beauty to the place. Here you also have the opportunity to observe several local typical birds.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Early in the morning, we will have an unforgettable motorboat excursion on the waters of Lake Titicaca to the unique "Floating Islands" of the Uros. These ancient inhabitants of the lake, known as the Water Tribe, have built their own "Islands" by periodically adding new layers of a type of reed called "Totora" (Scirpus Totora), vegetable fibre of the Papyrus family. Their homes and boats are also made from this material. We continue our motorboat trip to Taquile island, inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives who have developed, down through generations, an efficient and unique social system, as well as fine hand weaving techniques. It is necessary to go up a stairway of more than 567 steps - steps of stone that wind their way among green platforms - to arrive at the Town of Taquile where we will have a break to eat. After lunch in a local Taquile Inn, we have a walk through the various hills and archaeological sites of this 6 km long Island. In the afternoon, return to Puno for overnight at your hotel. Evening free. 

Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch 

Breakfast. Early departure by bus to the City of Cusco. We travel along the High Plateau of Collao, stopping at the Town of Ayaviri, an important livestock and textile centre, to visit the impressive Temple of Kalasaya, ruins from the ancient Pucara Culture. On the way, we stop in Raqchi, where we can see a spectacular Inca Sanctuary built by the Inca Pachacutec, and dedicated to the great Inca God of Wiracocha. It has a great central wall with a stone base of fine Inca architecture. Other walls are made of giant adobe bricks. The structure also has two circular lateral columns. Around the Temple are several buildings once used for housing and storage. About 70 km further on, we pass through the La Raya Ranch where we can see troops of vicuñas and llamas. During the trip, we pass by the lovely Wacarpay Lake, offering spectacular views of the mountains reflected in its calm waters. We proceed to the beautiful Town of Andahuaylillas, and visit the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas, better known as the Sistine Chapel of the Americas, due to its decorated polychrome ceiling. Buffet lunch in a quiet countryside restaurant, where we can enjoy the delightful culinary art of the Region.

Upon arrival in Cusco, meet and transfer to your hotel. Dinner on your own. 

Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch 

Breakfast. Morning at leisure. Lunch on your own.In the afternoon, we will have a guided sightseeing tour of Cusco visiting the Main Square, the Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun or Korikancha. Then, we drive out of the City to visit the Inca sites of Kenko, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara and the impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, strategically built on a hill overlooking Cusco and famous for its enormous carved stones, some of them standing over 9m / 30ft high and weighing over 350 tons. Return to Cusco (Plaza Regocijo).

Meals Included: Breakfast  

Early morning excursion to the Urubamba Valley, the Sacred Valley of the Incas. 

Visit to the picturesque indian Pisac Market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, the shopping paradise of the Andes where barter is still practiced.Enjoy the unique atmosphere during a typical lunch.In the afternoon, passing through the Towns of Calca and Urubamba, we visit the Inca Fortress and Citadel of Ollantaytambo, built to guard the entrance to this part of the Valley, and protect it from possible invasion from the tribes in the Lower jungle. You can walk through the quaint streets of the nearby Town, and get a good idea of what this strategic Mlitary, Religious, and Agricultural Centre was like during the era of the Inca Empire. Late afternoon return to Cusco for overnight (Plaza Regocijo). Evening free. We suggest strolling around the Main Square and enjoy the night atmosphere trying a delicious Pisco Sour in some of the many pubs around the Square.

Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch 

The day starts with an early morning rise to transfer to Cusco Train Station for a three hour train journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, also known as "The Lost City of the Incas". Arrive at Aguas Calientes Station followed by a 30-minute bus drive, climbing 6km of winding road, to the incredible site of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we'll participate in a guided tour of the Citadel, visiting the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial, the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial grounds. After the tour you will have free time to stroll around the Archaeological Site on your own.

Evening free. Overnight at your  hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Excellent opportunity to wake up early and enjoy a beautiful sunrise as well as stroll around the Town of Aguas Calientes and visit its Hot Springs Thermal waters. Then, you will have time to perform some of the following activities: (Not included in the overall price): 

In the afternoon, back to Cusco by train, and transfer to your  hotel for overnight. 

Evening free. We recommend to diner at the hotel and have an early night. 

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Breakfast. Transfer to Cusco Airport to take your flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima. At the appropriate time, transfer to the Airport to board your International homebound flight (Not included).

Meals Included: Breakfast