Peru Highlands Explorer
Trip highlights
- Discover the fascinating neighbourhoods of Lima
- Explore the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu
- Board the stunning Belmond Andean Explorer train
- Visit the UNESCO-protected city of Arequipa
- Enjoy the scenery of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Hike the Colca Canyon in search of the Andean condor
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–3 Lima
- Days 3–5 Sacred Valley
- Days 5–6 Machu Picchu
- Days 6–8 Cusco
- Days 8–10 Belmond Andean Explorer
- Days 10–12 Colca Canyon
- Days 12–13 Arequipa
- Days 1–3 Lima
- Days 3–5 Sacred Valley
- Days 5–6 Machu Picchu
- Days 6–8 Cusco
- Days 8–10 Belmond Andean Explorer
- Days 10–12 Colca Canyon
- Days 12–13 Arequipa
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
See Lima in luxury
Your journey will begin with two nights in Peru’s capital, Lima. Here you’ll experience everything from the city’s mouthwatering food scene, to its unique character and history, intriguing museums and attractive downtown.
Your concierge can arrange any private tours you wish and you’ll have all of our recommendations at hand for the best things to see and do in the city to make the very most of your stay.
Where you could stay
Lima
Highlights
- 20 spacious, contemporary rooms adorned with art
- Large pieces of artwork can be found throughout the hotel
- Indulge in Peruvian delicacies and international fusion cuisine
- Gaze out across Barranco from the rooftop terrace
- A great central location for more artistic experiences
Overview
Combining intimate, modern hospitality with stylish, historical elegance, Hotel B offers a polished and decidedly local stay for your time in Lima. Located in the city’s bohemian district of Barranco and housed in a historical Belle Époque mansion – once the palatial, ocean-view residence of the Peruvian president Augusto Leguia – this Relais & Châteaux property captures Peru’s past in 21st-century luxury.
The 20 spacious and charming rooms are spread between the historic ‘casona’ and the adjoining modern extension. All feature large pieces of artwork in-fitting with the general arts theme of the hotel. There are more than 250 works of art dotted around the hotel, all Latin American but mainly Peruvian, including a throw on wall in the library that dates back to 500 BC.
The rooms, which range from the cosy ‘Alcoba’ size to the grand ‘Atelier’ rooms, all display chic furnishings and modern amenities, with contemporary style and smart design blended together in a very refreshing and unique way.
For dining, make your way to the 1920s-themed bar. With a focus on Peruvian delicacies, the menu promotes local and seasonal produce. Within the peaceful library you can also enjoy afternoon tea, or perhaps opt for a drink as the sun sets on the rooftop terrace.
With six galleries on the same street as the property, Hotel B is the ideal stay for those who love art, culture and history.
→ Find out moreLima
Overview
Located in the leafy and affluent district of Miraflores in Lima, the Atemporal is a stunning blend of the modern and the old school, with a touch of the ancient nearby with the pre-Inca Huaca Pucllana pyramid a stone’s throw away.
The elegant 1940s mansion has a unifying theme of a well-travelled, freelance photographer, with the sophisticated décor the work of an award-winning design team.
With just 9 rooms, your stay is an exclusive one. Rooms are modern and stylish, with Netflix among the up to date amenities on offer. Service at the Atemporal is of the highest quality, and the chauffeur with keys to a stylish Mini Clubman for transfers within 4km of the hotel. At an additional charge, guests can enjoy therapeutic massages, access to a gym, services of a personal trainer, stylist and shopping guides. Of course, there is constant room service on call as well as a minibar.
The establishment is near to many of the local attractions found in Peru’s bustling capital city. Slip out the doors to explore nearby exquisite malls, chic neighbourhoods and some of the city’s best restaurants.
→ Find out moreLima
Overview
Villa Barranco is located in a charming 1920’s house that has been carefully restored, fitting perfectly into the surrounding district of Barranco which is known for its arty feel, traditional architecture and laid-back bohemian vibe.
There are nine rooms and suites, a some of which on the ground floor enjoy a private garden space, while those on the second have terraces of balconies. The style is simple, comfortable, with wooden floors, Persian rugs and huge beds.
Enjoy views of the sea and surrounding neighbourhood from the rooftop terrace, with many cultural sites, bars and restaurants nearby.
→ Find out moreLima
Highlights
- Located just a short stroll from the ocean’s edge, providing easy access to Lima’s stunning coast
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic views
- Open pantry offering daily-baked treats
- Dedicated team on hand to share recommendations
- Honesty bar offering a curated selection of beverages
Overview
Located on a charming tree-lined street in one of Lima’s most vibrant districts, Fausto offers a serene haven within Miraflores. Housed in a meticulously preserved 1920’s neoclassical building, Fausto blends traditional architecture with locally curated design, art and décor, creating a unique fusion of heritage and modernity. Just a short stroll from the ocean’s edge, this boutique retreat invites you to immerse yourself in the rich history and dynamic culture that define Miraflores—a neighbourhood where tradition and contemporary life intersect.
Each of Fausto’s five rooms has been carefully revitalised to preserve its original character. The attention to detail extends to every corner, ensuring a stay that is as relaxing as it is indulgent. The dedicated team is always on hand, ready to share their favourite recommendations in Lima.
As you enter Fausto, the allure of its original structure captivates you, offering spaces that feel both intimate and expansive. Wander through the inviting patio, relax in the cosy living room or ascend to the rooftop terrace, where the charm of Fausto extends under the open sky. With its warm ambiance, the location is perfect for social gatherings or moments of solitude, accompanied by house-made beverages and snacks. At the heart of Fausto lies the ‘sala,’ a communal space designed for connection, where guests can gather to share stories and experiences. As you explore further, discover the thoughtfully placed amenity and snack stations, offering daily-baked sweets, savoury snacks and a variety of refreshing drinks. Fausto’s Honesty Bar, a self-service nook open at all times, invites you to enjoy a curated selection of wine, spirits and soft drinks.
→ Find out moreLima
Highlights
- 82 guestrooms
- Observatory Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa
- Rooftop pool
- Gym
- Concierge service
Overview
This luxury hotel in Lima is a great place to relax before or after your visit to Machu Picchu and other destinations in Peru.
The hotel is set on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and adjacent to one of the most exclusive residential areas and commercial districts of Lima. Miraflores Park prides itself in offering outstanding personalised service and a home away from home atmosphere.
With 82 rooms, the amenities include three massage rooms, a rooftop heated pool, state of the art gym and a special observatory restaurant with sea views while dining.
→ Find out more
Make it mine
Taste of Lima
Back in time
Market visit and lunch
Start with a visit to one of Lima’s most emblematic and picturesque markets, where you can see, taste and purchase the most popular ingredients used in Peruvian cuisine guided by a culinary expert. Sample chirimoya, pacay, mango, passion fruit, aguaymanto or aguaje and stop by the impressive seafood section. Then it’s on to lunch at La Picanteria, a restaurant owned by famous chef, Hector SolÃs.
Lima's historical centre
Drive to the historical centre of Lima and the Plaza Mayor, where the Government Palace, City Hall, the Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace are located. Move along to the San Francisco Monastery and step inside Casa Aliaga, one of America’s best-preserved colonial mansions. Located across from the Presidential Palace in colonial Lima, Casa Aliaga was built in 1535 by Don Jeronimo de Aliaga, a member of Pizarro’s conquering forces. Seventeen generations later, Casa Aliaga is still inhabited by the Aliaga family, whose heirlooms include beautiful original furniture.
Two nights in the heart of the Sacred Valley
Northwest of Cusco, the Sacred Valley is one of the most beautiful and historically important parts of Peru. The valley was one of the bases of Inca civilization, the river that winds its way through the valley floor believed to be aligned with the cosmos.
The valley is also home to many indigenous people living the same way they have been for centuries. During your two nights here you can visit local markets and get an insight into community life today.
Where you could stay
Sacred Valley
Highlights
- 43 casitas
- Relais & Chateaux Restaurant
- Adjoining ranch and stables
- Birdwatching
- Cooking classes
- Andean weaving
- Pottery workshops
- Mountain bike tours and trekking
- Visits to sites around the Sacred Valley
- Kayaking
Overview
Set among beautiful gardens in the magnificent location of the Sacred Valley, Sol y Luna is a charming and comfortable hotel with wonderfully relaxing amenities. Your bungalow, or ‘casita’, is designed with Andean touches and stylish interiors and boasts gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape. Spend your days exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas where you can partake in exciting activities such as horse riding, bird watching and para-gliding.
Back at Sol y Luna the indulgent spa, sauna and pool is a peaceful place for you to unwind, while the dining consists of a number of Relais & Chateaux member restaurants: Killa Wasi, where Peruvian and European cuisine is served and Wayra, a separate restaurant set in the hotel’s Wayra ranch where Andean cuisine pays homage to the wealth of natural ingredients cultivated in the Sacred Valley since the time of the Incas. There is also a bar, Chicha Wasi, where you can enjoy authentic pisco sours.
The hotel is also recognised for its community initiatives, particularly in education. After 10 years of working with different schools and programs, Sol y Luna opened the Sol y Luna Intercultural School, providing educational services to a number of local students. The hotel recently started another initiative, Sol y Luna Home, which provides a safe home for children without a family or who are victims of violence.
→ Find out moreSacred Valley
Highlights
- 12 beautiful rooms and 24 standalone casitas
- Natural treatments using medicinal herbs at Mayu Spa
- Stunning views of green mountains and terraced fields
- Fresh produce from the hacienda's organic plantation
Overview
The Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba is a modern take on a traditional hacienda, wonderfully located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas between Cusco and Machu Picchu, its sizable estate backed by green mountains and overlooking terraced fields below.
The view is shared by all 12 rooms in the Casa Hacienda and 24 standalone casitas. Architecture and interiors are inspired on the area’s cultural history, with colonial furniture, authentic Inca masks and handcrafted woodwork giving a genuine sense of place.
Food at this luxury eco-lodge in the Sacred Valley is centred around an ‘earth to table’ concept, with produce from the hacienda’s organic plantation. Quinoa, Urubamba giant corn, medicinal herbs and a variety of potatoes are farmed with traditional hand tools and oxen, as done centuries ago, and guests are welcome to join in picking their own crops.
The most recent addition to the hacienda is the Mayu Spa, which means river in Quechua. It is nestled between the organic orchard and an peppertree forest and offers treatments using natural products derived from native medicinal herbs, making it an excellent destination for wellness retreats in the Sacred Valley.
→ Find out moreSacred Valley
Overview
Tucked away in one of the Sacred Valley’s most secluded haciendas, next to the tiny village of Urquillos and close to many of the area’s most important Inca settlements, explora Valle Sagrado is the wonderful hub from which to explore this incredible region of Peru.
Carefully built within an ancient corn plantation set on Inca terraces, 50 rooms – six of which are suites – drink in views of the surrounding fields and mountains. Each is modern in its simplicity and thoroughly comfortable.
There is an outdoor swimming pool, with hot tubs, massage room, steam rooms and saunas all set within a carefully preserved colonial building, Pumacahua House. A communal dining room, bar, library and living area sit at the heart of the property.
Guests stay here on a three night all inclusive basis, discovering the area with a selection of over 20 exploration activities. These include a range of hikes to colonial towns, snowcapped mountains, high altitude lagoons and Inca archaeological sites, half and full day mountain bike rides and tours to Cusco, Machu Picchu, or more off-the-beaten track locations.
→ Find out moreSacred Valley
Overview
This is without doubt one of the most comfortable and luxurious places to stay in the Sacred Valley. Set in a beautiful spot by the Urubamba river the hotel is close to the Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo. The construction and design of the 22 rooms is in keeping with the rustic surrounds of this historic location with extensive use of natural materials, yet never compromising on luxury.
The hotel has a good restaurant and a high quality 230 square metre spa in which to relax after a day exploring the area. There are also two very spacious and well-appointed villas suitable for families or groups of friends travelling together.
→ Find out moreExplore the valley
Fortress town
Outdoor dining
A private tour of the valley
Start at the Inca fortress town of Ollantaytambo, one of the most important if not visible vestiges of how the Incas inhabited and functioned in their cities. Enjoy a picnic lunch and a special ceremony of song and traditional offerings to Pachamama, Mother Earth. This ceremony evokes the spirit of healing, with pre-hispanic instruments and sacred medicines including palo santo, tayta sayri, mana coca, agua florida, condor’s feathers, grandfather puma, essences and incenses.
Picnic lunch in the Sacred Valley
Slow down for a while and enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch while admiring the stunning scenery of the Sacred Valley. It’s the perfect way to savour Peruvian flavours and really take in your surroundings.
All aboard to Machu Picchu
Luxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- Sit back and take in the views
- Toilet facilities
- Comfortable leather seats
- Snack service
Overview
The Vistadome train takes you to the magnificent ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in superb modern comfort.
As per its name, the train has wide glass windows built into the roof and sides of the carriages so you really do get to see the rich Peruvian countryside rushing by. Large leather seats, air conditioning, heating, and good service reflects all the contemporary efficiency and standards of Peru Rail too.
If you’re looking immerse in the surroundings this is a unique way to connect with the scenery en-route to Machu Picchu.
Traditional snack food is provided on board made using local ingredients for an experience of the Andean cuisine. On the return trip you can also watch live traditional dance performances, inspired from the ancient cultures of this region.
→ Find out moreLuxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- Dining and bar car
- Observation car
- Multiple carriages to relax
- Brunch and dinner served
- Relax and be transported
Overview
Named after the first American to discover the Incan hilltop citadel in 1911 and owned by Orient Express, the Hiram Bingham is a world-class luxury train. Travellers on the train are driven to Poroy station just outside Cusco to board the exclusive blue and gold painted carriages and for just over three hours you are resplendently transported to Aguacalientes, the town beneath the ruins.
Aboard, the 1920s Pullman carriages reflect the opulence of the locomotive era bedecked in polished brass, wood panels and rich, comfy seating. There is also a period observation car at the rear.
Brunch on the outward journey and dinner on your return are included. These are taken in the elegant dining car replete with white-linen tablecloths, clinking crystal, and you are looked after by the smartest team of waiters. Whilst feasting on fine Peruvian cuisine the steamy forest scenery unfolds right in front of you and there’s a great bar car that often has live music on the return leg, or you can just simply relax into a snug armchair in one of the carriages.
Escorted to the Lost City of the Incas there is a small-group guided tour included, but for those who would like a more exclusive visit we can easily arrange a private one for you.
→ Find out moreOvernight immersion at Machu Picchu
You can reach Machu Picchu by climbing up either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Both scenic sites offer incredible, sweeping views, but vary in route. Huanya Picchu is a steeper route for the confident hiker as you pass sheer drops and it takes around two hours. Machu Picchu Mountain is a rewarding three-hour ascending hike taking you away from the larger crowds to enjoy the vistas.
Your private guide will then take you on a comprehensive tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, bringing it to life by detailing the history, significance and myths as well as taking you to the hidden corners and best viewpoints.
Where you could stay
Machu Picchu
Highlights
- Restaurant, bar & cafe
- Visit the Machu Picchu Citadel
- Nature walks
- Tea plantation
- Bird watching
- Hiking
Overview
The hotel consists of several whitewashed cottages in an Andean village located in the heart of Aguas Calientes, part of the historical Machu Picchu attraction.
Tea time and evening nature shows are offered each day, and the hotel has a spa and yoga facility. The spacious rooms all have a fireplace and thick, handmade alpaca wool blankets cover each bed making it a perfect place for simple relaxing before and after your Machu Picchu excursion.
Inkaterra is a leader in ecotourism and sustainable development in Peru. They have a commitment to research, and sharing knowledge about biodiversity and culture with the world through authentic travel experiences. Because of this, they have been granted the First International Certificate in Sustainable Tourism given by Control Union Green Choice and the Sustainable Tourism Standard Conservation Award. They are also Rainforest Alliance verified and there is no single-use plastic at the property. It does not stop there, as of 2021 Inkaterra has been acknowledged by the United Nations as the World’s First Climate-Positive Hotel Brand
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- Recognised as the world’s first Climate Positive hotel brand by Green Initiative, endorsed by the United Nations, Inkaterra collaborated with AJE Group, Machu Picchu Town Hall, and the National Park Service to make Machu Picchu the first carbon-neutral international destination. This commitment aims to cut carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning with the United Nations Paris Agreement goals.
- Funded by tourism, the hotel actively restores a 4-hectare area damaged by livestock, nurturing native flora and encouraging the return of fauna. Partnering with Cornell University, the hotel monitors bird inventories, recording 294 species, including the Andean cock-of-the-rock, Andean motmot, Golden-headed quetzal, and 18 hummingbird species. Additionally, they’ve identified 372 orchid species, discovering 26 new orchid species previously unknown to science.
- Through their non-profit Inkaterra Association, the hotel conducts practical conservation workshops for school children. These engaging sessions, blending knowledge with fun through games, exhibitions, crafts, and experiments, serve as a crucial tool to raise environmental awareness among children. The aim is to foster their role as environmental ambassadors within their homes.
Machu Picchu
Overview
An excellent option in the Machu Picchu area, the Sumaq is located outside of the town of Aguas Calientes on a stretch of the Urubamba river.
60 rooms and suites are decorated to a clean modern finish with flourishes and details inspired by the Inca citadel, with views of the river and mountains.
One of the real highlights here is the restaurant, by our reckoning one of the best in the Machu Picchu area.
Aside from visiting the famous citadel above, you can partake in Peruvian cooking classes, witness traditional ceremonies and shamanic rituals, and head out on hikes through the lush valley in search of unique species of flora and fauna.
→ Find out moreMachu Picchu
Highlights
- 31 rooms
- Two restaurants & afternoon tea
- Massage
- Privately guided tours of Machu Picchu
Overview
The only accommodation located inside of Machu Picchu, The Sanctuary Lodge offers stunning views from many of the rooms and the hotel is within walking distance of the Incan ruins. The gorgeous garden is a wonderful place to have breakfast or a cocktail in the evening while relishing in the peace of the surroundings. Given the location, space is at an economy so the standard rooms are not overly spacious. However, this is a small price to pay for such a stunning location. All meals are included in the cost.
→ Find out moreTwo nights in Cusco
At the end of your visit to Machu Picchu you’ll once again board the train and head to Cusco. You’ll have two nights to enjoy this beautiful city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Capital of the Incan Empire from the early 14th century until its Spanish conquest, Cusco is an enthralling city where you can find Incan ruins next to (or underneath) Spanish colonial architecture.
Here you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Inca Empire and the country’s colonial past as you encounter splendid landmarks, atmospheric squares, intriguing archaeological sites and ancient ruins.
Where you could stay
Cusco
Highlights
- 55 oxygen-enriched suites with Cusquenian art and furniture
- Cloistered gardens with tranquil fountains and pretty patios
- A restaurant with a menu of signature dishes and Peruvian flavours
Overview
Palacio Nazarenas, a meticulously restored palace and convent, offers a harmonious blend of modern luxury and Cusco’s rich history. This exclusive boutique in Cusco is an urban sanctuary which features just 55 suites, each enriched with oxygen and equipped with a private bar stocked with fresh, locally sourced ingredients for crafting personalised drinks.
The charm of Palacio Nazarenas is revealed in its exquisite details. Once a nunnery, the property showcases floral accents and Cusquenian hand-crafted artistry throughout. The hotel also boasts an outdoor heated pool, nestled amidst cloistered gardens, Incan stone walls, tranquil fountains, and picturesque patios.
Experience the flavors of the Andes at Mauka, the vibrant restaurant led by renowned chef PÃa León, celebrated as one of Peru’s brightest culinary talents. Her innovative approach highlights the local biodiversity of Cusco while honoring the cultural heritage of the Peruvian Andes. Mauka’s menu reintegrates ancestral crops, seeds and traditions into gourmet dining, offering a captivating journey through Peru’s historic ecosystems. In a relaxed yet refined setting, savor signature dishes crafted with care, creativity, and irresistible flavours.
The hotel is located within easy distance of city highlights like Plaza de Armas and Sacsayhuamán, and is ideally situated for exploring Cusco.Â
→ Find out moreCusco
Overview
Cusco’s most famous and prestigious hotel, Monasterio is a beautifully restored monastery in the heart of town just steps away from the main plaza, finest restaurants and best museums. Built around Incan foundations, adorned with antique Spanish design, the hotel is an important historical landmark and is protected by the National Institute of Culture.
The 126 unique rooms offer a great mix of elegance and comfort, ranging from cozy quarters to expansive suite. The hotel also goes the extra mile in terms of guests’ comfort with the provision of some oxygen enriched bedrooms to help acclimatize to the high altitude.
There are two restaurants – Illariy in the cloisters opening out over the leafy courtyard where you’ll find delicious breakfasts and light lunches, and El Tupay which serves fine international cuisine created from local ingredients, often accompanied by opera. The relaxed lobby bar is the place to sip pisco sours after a day exploring.
→ Find out moreCusco
Overview
This luxury boutique hotel is located right in the center of Cusco surrounded by cobblestone streets, museums and next door to Plaza Las Nazarenas. This really is the premier property in Cusco and a real delight to stay at.
La Casona is a beauitfully and carefully restored colonial manor house from the 16th century with modern luxuries. With only eleven suites surrounding a courtyard, the atmosphere is very private and charming.
Each room is furnished with period antiques and has a fireplace and heated floors. Other hotel amenities include a library, restaurant, lounge, spa, butler services and Peruvian cooking classes.
→ Find out moreCusco
Overview
Located half way between Sacsayhuaman and the cosmopolitan Plaza de Armas, the Palacio Manco Capac is an ancient republican country house reinvented as a charming boutique hotel. With an enviable location high on the slopes of San Cristobal Hill, the hotel was built on the ancient site of the palace of Manco Capac, founder of the Inca Empire. During your stay, you’ll enjoy commanding views as well as an intimate connection to the area’s majestic past.
The hotel has just five rooms, each with an elegant bathroom been made of the finest peruvian travertine. The intimate size of the hotel ensures that you’re guaranteed a cosy and welcoming atmosphere combined with personalised service and the utmost in attention to detail.
Traditional Peruvian food and elements from worldwide cuisines combine with organic, local produce to create a delicious menu to accompany your stay.
Situated in Quinta Qolqampata in the San Cristobal neighbourhood, just 20 minutes from Alejandro Velasco Astete airport, convenience is met with the calm surroundings of a beautiful eucalyptus forest. Punctuate your stay with bucolic walks around the property amidst Inca ruins. Horse riding, bike riding, yoga and a host of other activities can be organised to your liking.
→ Find out moreMake it mine
Culture and ruins
Raise a glass
Touring Cusco and nearby ruins
Starting in the Imperial City, a living example of the mixture of Andean and Spanish cultures, you’ll visit the Santo Domingo Convent, built over the Koricancha Palace. Later, you will stop at the Main Square and the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, is the largest and most impressive of four archaeological ruins on the outskirts of Cusco. Then it’s on to the archaeological sites of Qenko, Puca-Pucara and Tambomachay, located to the northeast of the city.
Pisco tasting
Learn all about Peru’s national spirit and gain an insight into its history, how it is made and how to appreciate it. Then put your newfound knowledge into practice tasting four varieties of pisco and learning how to make the perfect Pisco Sour.
Journey on the Belmond Andean Explorer to Lake Titicaca
Boarding the Belmond Andean Explorer in Cusco, you’ll start to unwind in your luxurious cabin as the train begins its journey southeast towards Puno. On the way you’ll disembark to visit Raqch’i, once an important control point for the Incas and today a fascinating archaeological site, as well as enjoy the first of many splendid meals in the dining car.
On your second day, you’ll awake early to catch the breathtaking sunrise across Lake Titicaca. Tours will allow you to explore the eclectic beauty and rich diversity of life on the lake, the largest in South America. Highlights include a traditional boat ride out to the Uros Islands, man-made lands carefully created from woven reeds that are constantly being replenished.
Journeying onwards to reach Arequipa, excursions take you to the spellbinding, rugged scenery of Lake Lagunillas and the Sumbay Caves, home to cave paintings are estimated to be almost 8,000 years old.
Accommodation on board
Luxury train journeys in Peru
Highlights
- En-suite cabins for up to 48 guests
- Two dining cars
- Lounge car
- Observation car
Overview
Belmond’s Andean Explorer travels between Cusco, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa along one of the world’s highest train routes in unmatched style and comfort.
En-suite cabins accommodate up to 48 passengers, with double, twin and bunk bed configurations. Interiors are inspired by Peru’s traditional hand-woven fabrics and the soft tones of alpaca wool.
The lounge car features a baby grand piano and is the perfect place for guests to come together and enjoy a drink from the bar. There are two dining cars serving contemporary cuisine using seasonal, local produce from the Peruvian Andes, and masterminded by the team at the Belmond Hotel Monasterio in Cusco. There is also an observation car from which to enjoy the breathtaking scenery while sipping on a Pisco sour.
→ Find out moreA private scenic transfer to the Colca Canyon
Your journey to the Colca Canyon takes you on a splendid drive as you enter the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, an extensive plain where you can spot herds of alpacas, llamas and possibly wild vicuñas. Continue through the fascinating volcanic landscape to the village of Chivay for lunch before arriving at the Colca Valley and your hotel.
Two nights in the Colca Canyon
Blending a dramatic geography of volcanoes and canyons with sleepy Andean valleys, Incan ruins and centuries-old colonial villages, the Colca Canyon is one of Peru’s most beautiful and traditional locations. Packed with opportunities for adventure activities, from white-water rafting, hiking and spotting the soaring Andean condor, as well as chances to relax in hot springs and take life at a slower pace.
You will have the chance to explore the towns of Yanque and Maca to see their colonial churches and learn about unique local crafts.
Where you could stay
Colca Canyon
Highlights
- Three distinct tent types offer alternative ways to experience the valley
- Get back to nature with the guidance of hand-selected artisans, naturalists, and local experts
- Savour family-style Andean meals that utilise the freshest local produce
- Soak in the thermal baths of Uyo Uyo
- Admire the landscape of volcanoes and grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see
Overview
Nestled deep within the Colca Valley, PUQIO is set in a landscape where volcanoes, expansive grasslands, and undiscovered pathways await daily exploration. Each room is inspired by the original canvas tents of first Andean explorers, whilst earthen adobe rooms blend harmoniously into the surrounding high desert landscape. Outdoor showers and cold plunges will rejuvenate your tired muscles, whilst writing desks provide an outlet for when creativity strikes.
Indulge in the essence of Andean flavours and traditions with a clay oven and open flame meals as you enjoy family-style meals crafted using traditional methods and the freshest local produce. Here, corn is harvested by local hands and freshly baked bread is kneaded with a knowing touch.
During your stay you can also enjoy the soothing water of your own private hot tub and take part in guided excursions that are bookended by personal reflection. These experiences include high altitude trekking, delving into ancient plant wisdom with a natural herbalist, soaking in the thermal baths of Uyo Uyo, and visiting some of the best textile weavers in the Andes.Â
→ Find out moreColca Canyon
Overview
Belmond Las Casitas is an exquisite luxury accommodation which provides guests with their own private ‘casita’. The location is perfect, set in the wonderfully idyllic Colca Valley. Each casita has heated floors, a private terrace, and heated plunge pool from which you can enjoy the sunset. The bathrooms have marble floors, indoor and outdoor showers and a glass rooftop over the bathtub to gaze at the stars at night. The theme of each casita is being a part of nature and truly relaxing.
One of the most unique elements of this accommodation is its huge vegetable gardens, farm, and greenhouses where guests have the option to pick each ingredient for their meal that evening. Otherwise, the restaurant serves gourmet cuisine throughout the day.
→ Find out moreCruz del Condor
Head to the Cruz del Condor to view the incredible Colca Canyon itself. This is the most popular point for viewing the canyon – it’s around 1200m (3937 feet) deep here – and you can almost guarantee seeing several huge condors circling up from the depths against the breathtaking scenery. A short walk will show you pre-Inca terraces where people still grow Andean products such as corn, quinoa and kiwicha.
Overnight in the 'White City' of Arequipa
Overlooked by the Andes mountains, UNESCO-protected Arequipa is known as the ‘White City’ (thanks to its buildings being constructed from white volcanic ‘sillar’ rock). Spend your time here soaking up the splendour and enjoying the views and likely sublime weather.
Accommodation in Arequipa
Arequipa
Overview
Dating back to 1540, this cream-hued boutique accommodation, built partly from volcanic rock, features carefully preserved arches and columns. Circling courtyards, dotted with greenery and including expansive windows, the structure is designed to merge the inside world with the outside environment.
The 11 light-flooded rooms, with high-vaulted ceilings, look out across two patios and are individually decorated. Light tones and simple, soft furnishings add warmth to the stone-lined spaces and place emphasis on the original architecture. Complimentary snacks and beverages are sure to enhance your stay, along with modern amenities, such as a Smart HDTV, with Netflix and a wireless speaker.
Guests can dabble in the in-room dining option, or take to the on-site restaurant, with a salon and sprawling terrace, to sample Arequipenean gastronomy, focused around fresh ingredients. On the rooftop, another eatery, positioned next to an organic garden, can be found, allowing you to indulge in an array of regional dishes, paired with dreamy vistas of the city and nearby volcanoes.
A heated plunge pool set on one of the patios and a therapy spa room call for idyllic moments of relaxation. For those who want to explore Arequipa and its natural surroundings, a variety of excursions can be arranged.
→ Find out moreArequipa
Overview
This hotel, located in the White City Arequipa, is a national historic monument. Formerly a mint house, it is now one of the best hotels in the city and one of the best in Peru.
The luxurious and spacious colonial suites have been beautifully converted and it’s very evident that you are staying in part of Peru’s rich history. We recommend these above the more modern rooms at the rear of the property.
There are two beautiful courtyards, restaurant, bar and very accommodating staff.
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Out and about
Local cuisine
Exploring Arequipa
You’ll learn more about Arequipa’s monuments, cultural buildings and day-to-day life on a comprehensive tour led by an expert local guide, starting in the UNESCO-listed historic centre. Highlights include Plaza de Armas and its splendid Cathedral and the Santa Catalina Monastery, built in 1579 and enlarged in the 17th century to house approximately 450 people at its height. You’ll also see the Momia Juanita (Juanita Mummy), discovered in September 1995 by the anthropologist John Reinhard in the heights of Ampato Volcano and believed to have been an offering to the Apus over 500 years ago.
Picanterias of Arequipa
In the morning, you will visit three of the most authentic picanterÃas in Arequipa. In each picanteria, you will have the opportunity to try a typical, regional dish such as stuffed Ricoto chili or fried cuy (guinea pig) as well as a refreshing glass of chicha de jora.
Arequipeñan picanterÃas, originally chicherÃas, date back to the 16th century when they were small stores that sold corn and chicha on the outskirts of the city. As time passed, these tiendas started to prepare and sell various tasty traditional dishes, giving these places a positive social reputation.
The trip was an amazing experience. The hotels, guides, excursions, transportation and restaurants were perfectly curated and arranged. Jacada handled every detail so that we could fully enjoy the trip and not worry about any of the logistics.