Highlights
- Explore the delights of foodie Lima with an authentic cooking class and dinner in the private dining rooms of Maido restaurant
- Immerse yourself in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, staying overnight in one of our private luxury villas
- Journey to Machu Picchu aboard a private charter train, one of the most exclusive experiences in Peru: the Hiram Bingham Royal Charter
- Take in the charm of historic Cusco, visiting the famous San Pedro market with an expert guide
- Spend three days in a private suite aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer, South America’s only luxury sleeper train
- Discover the secrets of Lake Titicaca before arriving in Arequipa and unravelling the city’s fabulous foodie scene
Return to the golden age of travel with an 11-day private tour of Peru, crossing the country in true 1920s railway glamour. Designed especially for small groups of up to 10 people, this is the ultimate way to experience luxury travel to South America.
Begin in Lima, the foodie capital of the Southern Hemisphere, staying at the intimate and charming Atemporal, reserved in its entirety for your party alone. Whilst here, you’ll enjoy authentic cooking classes with leading chefs by day, and dinner in the private dining rooms of Maido by night – rated 7th on the World’s Best Restaurants List.
In the Sacred Valley of the Incas, spend a day immersed in the rural mountain community of Lamay, a traditional village high in the Andes, before boarding a luxury train journey to Machu Picchu. The Hiram Bingham Royal Charter is a private train charter, offering a private party of up to twelve guests a chance to glide through the Peruvian Andes, reaching Machu Picchu in stupendous luxury – an experience unlike any other.
After a two-days spent exploring Machu Picchu with a private guide, take in the historic charm of Cusco, before boarding South America’s only luxury sleeper train: the Belmond Andean Explorer. Following one of the highest railways in the world, the Belmond Andean Explorer travels through sweeping highland scenery from Cusco to Puno, by Lake Titicaca, and onto Arequipa. Away from the luxury of your private suite onboard, you’ll explore the islands of Lake Titicaca, take in the sunsets over La Raya point, and visit the ancient caves of Sumbay.
After three days aboard one of the best luxury trains in Peru, you’ll reach Arequipa for your final night on this private South American tour, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city and its unmissable foodie scene.
Peru is the only South American country where luxury train travel is possible, allowing travelers to soak up the unique beauty of its dramatic landscape at a sleeper train pace. As always, this luxury vacation to Peru is only a guide since we tailor each itinerary to your personal travel taste.
Daily Summary 11 Days / 10 Nights
- Day 1
LimaView on map
Arrival in Peru
Your Aracari representative will welcome you to Peru, should you wish - greeting you on the runway tarmac as you alight from your plane.
Presented with your welcome pack, containing a variety of gifts carefully selected from all over Peru, you’ll then be whisked off to Atemporal where we will assist with all check-in procedures.
Tucked away in a 1940s Peruvian mansion, Atemporal is one of the best luxury hotels in Lima for those visiting on a private tour of South America. Recently refurbished by the awarding-winning team behind some of the top hotels in Peru, the timeless aesthetic offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Lima’s Miraflores district, the perfect base from which to explore the wonders of Lima. With just 6 guest suites, Atemporal can be booked on an exclusive basis for your party, making it ideal for those traveling as a small group and seeking a private space in the bustling city.
Accommodation options0
- Day 2
LimaView on map
Discover the delights of Peruvian cuisine, with a relaxed guided market and authentic cooking class, before dinner in the private dining rooms of Maido, rated 7th on the World's Best Restaurants List.
For your first morning in Peru, you will be whisked away on our experience ‘Friendly foodies: the social chefs of Lima’ - ideal for small groups due to its relaxed nature, and because the cooking class takes place in a private kitchen.
Over the next 4-hours you’ll be led by one of our wonderful professional chefs, beginning with the many different stalls and vendors of one of Lima’s popular markets. Your chef guide will explain more about the exotic fruits, vegetables, seeds, and street foods that laden the tables, stopping to purchase traditional fruits, which will later become part of your dessert.
Traveling to a private, purpose-built kitchen in the heart of Miraflores, you’ll start your cooking class with a cocktail in hand. The menu will consist of a variety of seasonal, traditional Peruvian dishes with plenty of options to choose from. Whichever dishes you choose to prepare, each will comprise of the freshest ingredients, all sourced locally, and you’ll be taught to prepare the plates just as a Peruvian would!
Sitting down to your lunch in this relaxed setting, your chef guide will tell you more about the social and cultural aspects of Peru's rich culinary history – and you can ask any questions that may have piqued your interest over the last few hours.
In the afternoon visit downtown Lima, perfect for those seeking cultural travel to South America. Begin to unravel Lima’s rich history accompanied by our specialist guide, a professor of history, architecture, or art – dependent on your own interests.
You’ll visit an ancient adobe pyramid right in the middle of the city, dating back to around 200 BC. Before exploring the colonial area of Lima, including the Cathedral, Convent of Santo Domingo, the Main Square, and Casa Aliaga, reportedly the oldest home on the Continent - and still family-owned after 17 generations. Once you’ve finished exploring the rich history found in this part of Lima, your Aracari guide and driver will take you via private transfer back to your hotel, taking around 45 minutes.
Here you’ll have the option to relax and unwind, before being collected for your evening meal reservations at Maido. Rated 7th in the World's Best Restaurants List, Maido is a dining destination not to be missed, offering a fusion of Latin American and Eastern cuisines and an exceptional 12-course ‘Nikkei Experience’ tasting menu. For your visit, Aracari can secure one of Maido’s private dining rooms, perfect for small parties.
After you’ve eaten, you’ll be taken back to your hotel for a restful night ready for the next day of adventure.
Accommodation options- Day 3
Lima – Cusco – Sacred ValleyView on map
Fly to the historic city of Cusco in the Sacred Valley and visit ancient Pisac, exploring the sights and smells of the famous market in the mountains.
Today you’ll fly to Cusco, assisted by our representatives in Lima who will take care of all check-in procedures for your domestic flight. Upon arrival in the mountainous region of Cusco, you will be met by another member of our team and be driven to the Sacred Valley. On route, you will stop at Awanacancha camelid ranch, a traditional Peruvian farm where you will be invited to meet the herds of native llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos.
Once back on the road, you will continue onto the famous Pisac market and ruins. As you meander through the sights and smells of the market stalls, you’ll be able to purchase fresh produce and street food, as well as traditional handmade art and crafts. The Inca masonry at Pisac is also wonderfully preserved, and you’ll learn about its history as you take in views of the incredible mountain terraces below.
Luxury travel in South America wouldn’t be complete without a stay in one of our private villas in Cusco. Tucked away in lush green gardens, or neighboring quaint Andean towns – our collection includes some of the best luxury villas in Cusco, perfect for small groups on private tours to South America.
Featuring large living rooms and roaring fires, these private villas offer a wonderfully authentic way to experience this part of Peru. With wholesome meals prepared each evening using local ingredients and a 24-hour English-speaking concierge, we ensure our guests have everything they need for a retreat to remember.
Accommodation options
- Day 4
Sacred ValleyView on map
Spend an unforgettable in the rural mountain community of Lamay, high in the Sacred Valley, opting for a day of wild adventure or immersive culture.
Today you’ll journey via private transfer to the sleepy Andean village of Lamay (2914m / 9560ft). Once you arrive in the village, you’ll be taken to La Base Lamay, the perfect spot to enjoy an early morning coffee, with a neighboring store to browse and purchase local art and craft.
Depending on your interests, there are several options from which you can choose for today’s activities. You may opt for the Lamay Community Day, for instance, an authentic insight into what life is like for these Peruvians. Participate in farming labor alongside the locals, farming a variety of plants and native crops (such as corn, potatoes, tarwi, and quinoas).
There’s also an opportunity to learn more about gastronomy in the Andes during this private tour of the Sacred Valley. Your hosts will share their traditional recipes, and you’ll be invited to participate in the preparation of a nutritious local lunch. Alternatively, if you’re more interested in learning about traditional textiles, after enjoying your delicious lunch prepared by your hosts, the local women will demonstrate the process of crafting their textile art.
If adventure travel in South America is more your thing, you could instead choose a day in the wild on one of the most beautiful hikes in Peru. Meet your hiking guide (and your accompanying llama guides!) in Lamay, together you’ll head to Sapacto, a community in the heights of the Andes, where your day’s hike will begin at an altitude of 4,100 m / 13,451 ft.
In this unique and important environment, you’ll spot other herds of alpacas, llamas, and sheep, as well as the local people who farm the animals. Continuing the trail, you’ll head towards the lloque pass, 4410 m / 14468 ft above sea level, where you will leave the Valley of Lamay and enter the community of Paru Paru in the district of Pisac. From here you will begin your descent, arriving at several picturesque lakes.
After lunch, a beautifully prepared picnic using local, organic ingredients – you will return to the trail and take in the amazing views of the Apus, the sacred Andean mountains, arriving next at the first of the three mythical lakes: Kinsacocha. You’ll bear witness to a unique ecosystem, with many different species of birds like Huayatas (Andean geese), lake gulls, ducks, hummingbirds, hawks, and even eagles.
The final kilometers are along the shores of the mystical lake of Kinsacocha, within the community of Paru Paru at an altitude of 4,200 m / 13,779 ft. The experience culminates in a visit to the traditional textile interpretation center. Here you’ll be able to purchase authentic Andean art and craft, and in turn, directly support local artisans.
Your Aracari guide and driver will then return you to your private villa, where you can enjoy the evening reflecting on an incredible day in the mountains.
Accommodation options- Day 5
Sacred Valley – Machu PicchuView on map
Glide through the Sacred Valley aboard the glamour of the Hiram Bingham Royal Charter – the ultimate luxury train journey to Machu Picchu, and spend the afternoon absorbed in the sublime beauty of the ancient ruins.
The Hiram Bingham Royal Charter is a train ride through Peru quite unlike any other. Ideal for those traveling to Peru as a group of friends, this premium service offers a private party of up to twelve guests a chance to glide through the Peruvian Andes in sumptuous 1920s glamour.
The carriage can be anchored to the regular Hiram Bingham train schedule or can be arranged as a separate service whereby the private suite is attached to its own locomotive and adjoining kitchen carriage. For either option, you’ll first be welcomed with a Pachamama ceremony and traditional Andean dance performance on the platform, before heading on board for your journey towards the cloud forest and a private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Featuring its own bar, the Hiram Bingham Royal Charter is attended to by a dedicated butler who will serve unlimited drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) throughout the journey. For lunch, a gourmet menu showcasing native Andean ingredients will be served in a fine-dining setting, as the carriage passes through some of the most spectacular landscapes in all of Peru. And once your party reaches the final stop, a luxury private transfer waiting will be waiting to take you from the station and up to the ancient ruins.
You’ll then spend the afternoon exploring the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the world's most important archaeological sites. Set among mist-shrouded mountains, this man-made marvel has become a symbol of the ingenuity and prosperity of one of the most expansive empires in Latin American history: the Incas. Your private Machu Picchu guide will explain the history and purpose of this awe-inspiring site.
Accommodation options
- Day 6
Machu Picchu – CuscoView on map
Catch the sunrise on a private guided tour of Machu Picchu, with the option to hike to Huayna Picchu.
Return to Machu Picchu with your guide early in the morning, hiking to Huayna Picchu. Offering spectacular panoramic views, Huayna Picchu rises 260 meters (850 ft) higher than Machu Picchu. The Incas built a trail up the side of the mountain, and on its top, temples and terraces.
Afterward, take your private transfer back to the town of Aguas Calientes to catch your return journey aboard the Hiram Bingham Royal Charter to Ollantaytambo for your private transfer to Cusco. Here, you’ll check into the blissful Palacio Nazarenas Belmond hotel in Cusco for an evening of restful relaxation.
Accommodation options
- Day 7
CuscoView on map
Take in the charm of historic Cusco with two exclusive experiences, learning how to photograph the city’s most famous landmarks and exploring the sprawling stalls of San Pedro market, before enjoying dinner at Cicciolina, seated at the chef’s table.
Today you’ll explore the city of Cusco, the former capital of the ancient Inca empire. Yet these are ordinary private Cusco tours. Instead, you’ll begin the morning with Peruvian professional photographer Adriana Peralta. Starting in the city’s main square, the Plaza de Armas, you’ll learn how to capture the beauty of Cusco in a single image as Adriana leads you through the ancient, cobbled streets during this unforgettable experience.
Ana will tell you how the contrasting light – unique to this city – creates breathtaking photographs even on a smartphone. You’ll be taught how to manipulate the tools on your device – camera or phone – to use light, shadow, composition, and perspective to take professional-style photographs, and create the perfect keepsake of your time in this special city.
For the afternoon’s activities, during day seven of your private tour of South America, you’ll explore the sprawling stalls of San Pedro Market. Accompanied by an expert guide you’ll visit the market like a local, seeking out vendors famed for stalls stacked high with unique produce, as well as learning the history and cultural traditions behind this important market.
Weaving through the stands, your expert guide will lead you to some of their favorites – local vendors they know by name, who have for generations held stalls at San Pedro market. You’ll have the chance to sample their delicious delicacies, a real taste of food in South America, as well as the chance to purchase authentic textiles and souvenirs.
For this evening’s dinner, you’ll dine at the chef’s table at the atmospheric Cicciolina. A Cusco institution for almost 20 years, this tapas restaurant and wine bar can be found in a magical setting overlooking the terracotta tiles of the city. Expect a menu of European dishes made with local Andean ingredients, making for delicious fusion and a wonderful way to spend a night of your luxury Peru vacation.
Accommodation options- Day 8
Cusco - Lake TiticacaView on map
Step aboard the continent’s only luxury sleeper train and glide through the magnificent landscape – the ultimate way to experience luxury travel in South America.
Today you’ll head to Cusco train station to board the Belmond Andean Explorer luxury sleeper train.
As South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer follows one of the highest train routes in the world, taking you through sweeping highland scenery from Cusco to Puno, by Lake Titicaca, and onto Arequipa.
The experience onboard is exceptional, with gourmet fine dining, a spa carriage, and an open-air observation deck where you can take in the view at a sleeper train pace. Inside your private suite, you’ll find linen-covered walls, hand-woven textiles, soft alpaca bedding, timber finishes, and bathrooms tiled in local stones.
On your first day abroad this luxury train in Peru visit the Inca ruins of Raqchi, before taking in the sunset over La Raya, the highest point of the journey, where you will make a brief stop to admire the view and visit a small artisanal market. Arrive at Lake Titicaca at night and stay overnight on the train.
- Day 9
Lake TiticacaView on map
Marvel at the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca, and explore the fascinating Islands of Taquile and Uros before enjoying a private gourmet picnic and traditional dance performance.
On this morning of your private tour of South America, you’ll enjoy breakfast on board the Belmond Andean Explorer, as you take in the sunrise over Lake Titicaca. You and your group will then head out to cruise to Taquile Island, as well as the famous Uros Islands, made from totora reeds that float on the tranquil waters of the lake.
A gourmet lunch will be waiting for you at a private location on Collata Beach, and here locals will perform a typical dance and a presentation of artisanal works. In the afternoon, you will return to the dock in Puno for teatime before boarding the most luxurious train in South America and departing for Arequipa. During your final evening aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer, an exquisite dinner will be served showcasing food in South America, before stopping in the town of Saracocha for the night.
Stay overnight on the Belmond Andean Explorer.
- Day 10
Lake Titicaca - ArequipaView on map
Visit the ancient caves of Sumbay, before continuing your train journey through the Colca Valley to Arequipa and exploring the city’s foodie scene.
After a delicious breakfast onboard one of the most luxurious trains in Peru, you’ll visit the Sumbay Caves, located on the Misti volcano. The Rock Art here is thought to date back up to 8,000 years.
Continuing your private tour of South America, you’ll head back on onto the Belmond Andean Explorer, journeying through the magnificent landscape to reach the city of Arequipa. Should you wish, it’s possible to alight the train early, to visit the Colca Canyon – one of the highlights of Southern Peru – and witness the soaring Andean condors and take a dip in the hot thermal springs.
Otherwise, you’ll continue to Arequipa where you’ll be met by your private guide. Nestled at the foot of El Misti volcano, Arequipa (2,335 m / 7,660 ft), or ‘The White City’ is famous for being Peru’s second-largest city, and for its construction using chalk-white volcanic stone known as sillar.
Arequipa is a fabulous foodie destination, and home to some of the country’s best restaurants and regional delicacies. The city itself is something of an anomaly, being halfway between the coast and the heights of the Andes. Typical dishes from the Arequipa region include ají de lacayote (made using a local variety of squash) and adobo arequipeño (a juicy dish of pork, rocoto, chicha de jora and red onions). Many of these dishes can be found in one of the city’s picanterias, which are always busy with locals and serve enormous portions!
Tonight, we’ll guide you through the city’s famous foodie scene, making all the necessary reservations for a magical final night in Peru. Before leaving you to settle into Circa, a beautiful boutique hotel that captures the city’s unique history and architectural style.
Accommodation options
- Day 11
Arequipa - LimaView on map
The final day of your luxury private tour of Peru will take in the charming colonial architecture and landmark sites of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage city.
Visit the Santa Teresa Convent, a former religious center that has been converted into a Colonial Art Museum, where you can optionally be guided by the city’s most renowned Viceregal Art expert and an Aracari specialist. Aracari’s subject specialists aren’t simply private South American tour guides, but rather leading researchers and professors, hugely influential people in their field of work.
You’ll also visit the Santa Catalina monastery, the pride of Arequipa. This expansive 29,426 square-meter convent was founded in 1580 and is a masterpiece of Colonial architectural design. Afterward, you will be taken to the Santuarios Andinos Museum, where the body of Juanita, a frozen girl, is on display. Uncovered atop Ampato Mountain in 1995, Juanita was a teenage girl sacrificed to the Inca gods in the 1400s and is eerily well-preserved.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll be met at your hotel by our Aracari representative and transferred to Arequipa airport for your domestic flight to Lima International Airport. We will assist you with everything you need for your international departure.
Aracari specializes in tailormade travel. Here are just some of our further trip suggestions. Contact us for more bespoke ideas to inspire your travels.
Some optional activities
- Extend your stay and visit the breathtaking Colca Canyon
Featured Destinations
Journey pricing as of 2024
Basic Pricing - US$11,400 per person
- Pricing based on 10 people travelling together
- Price per person for the full 11-day itinerary
- Based on a selection of hotels: Atemporal, Casa Tere Private Villa, Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Belmond Andean Explorer, Cirqa Hotel
What's Included?
- Includes all specified services in the journey description
- All transfers and entrance fees
- A welcome pack on arrival including: a pre-loaded cell phone to contact your travel consultant at any time, a printed booklet packed with insider tips alongside your detailed journey and up-to-date recommendations on dining and shopping
- Hand-selected English-speaking guides
- Specialist guides (where noted)
- 24-hour support from our locally based team
- 10 nights in a hand-picked selection of Peru’s finest accommodations - all personally tried and tested
What's not Included?
- Domestic flights (quoted separately).
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Tips.
- Travel Insurance.
- International Flights and airport taxes.
- Neither personal expenses or any other service not specified in the itinerary.
The Golden Age of Travel: Luxury Peru by RailVisit Peru's top destinations by train - Day 2
