A word from Aracari founder, Marisol Mosquera…
“I’m passionate about travel but I really can’t stand crowds or tourist traps. I also love to travel with my son so incorporating educational opportunities and adventure is important to me.
With this luxury vacation to Peru, ‘Marisol’s Favorite’, I have created an itinerary that will take you to Peru’s top destinations, not as simply a visitor but as an insider. You’ll stay at the best hotels in Peru, places where I have stayed, and where I know there to be personality and charm.
As a lover of nature, I have made sure you’ll also be immersed in breathtaking Andean landscapes, following trails that aren’t overrun with tourists, but those that cross through traditional communities and pass ancient Inca ruins. And of course, since I myself am a foodie – and a Peruvian by birth – I have also included some of the best restaurants, not just in the country but the world, as well as unique gourmet experiences available exclusively to Aracari.
Think of it as my personal guide to the very best of my beloved Peru. Happy travels!”
Highlights
- Explore Lima’s rich history alongside dinner reservations at Osaka and Maido, plus other exclusive culinary experiences.
- Hike one of Peru’s most breathtaking routes, passing sacred mountains and mythical lakes.
- Visit the Inca sites of Maras and Moray, before enjoying a foodie afternoon at MIL – the restaurant of Virgilio Martinez.
- Complete the one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and explore the iconic ruins of one of the world's most important archaeological sites.
- Take in the charm of historic Cusco with a unique tour of the city’s artisan hubs.
Marisol’s Favorite:
A word from Aracari founder, Marisol Mosquera…
“I’m passionate about travel but I really can’t stand crowds or tourist traps. I also love to travel with my son so incorporating educational opportunities and adventure is important to me.
With this luxury vacation to Peru, ‘Marisol’s Favorite’, I have created an itinerary that will take you to Peru’s top destinations, not as simply a visitor but as an insider. You’ll stay at the best hotels in Peru, places where I have stayed, and where I know there to be personality and charm.
As a lover of nature, I have made sure you’ll also be immersed in breathtaking Andean landscapes, following trails that aren’t overrun with tourists, but those that cross through traditional communities and pass ancient Inca ruins. And of course, since I myself am a foodie – and a Peruvian by birth – I have also included some of the best restaurants, not just in the country but the world, as well as unique gourmet experiences available exclusively to Aracari.
Think of it as my personal guide to the very best of my beloved Peru. Happy travels!”
Daily Summary 10 Days / 9 Nights
- Day 1
LimaView on map
Arrival to Peru
Your Aracari representative will welcome you to Peru, should you wish - greeting you on the runway tarmac as you alight from your plane.
You’ll be presented with your welcome pack, before being whisked off to your hotel, where we will assist with all check-in procedures.
Accommodation options
- Day 2
LimaView on map
Explore the rich history of the coastal capital and enjoy lunch in the bohemian district of Barranco.
Today you will learn more about the complex history of Peru during our experience, How Peru Came To Be. This full-day adventure will see you delve deep into the history of the country and its capital, exploring everything from artifacts to architecture, to unearth the secrets of its fascinating past.
You’ll be collected from your hotel by your Aracari guide and driver, heading to your first stop, the charming Pedro de Osma Museum in the district of Barranco. Once the home of a Peruvian aristocrat and passionate collector of viceregal art, Pedro de Osma Museum is a beautiful early 20th-century mansion. Today, the house has been lovingly restored into a private museum, housing an invaluable collection of Peruvian art, spanning from the 5th to the 18th century.
This intimate, family-run museum is most famously known for its collection of viceregal art – with whole rooms dedicated to different features of the style, such as Madonna’s and archangels. However, the museum also has an incredibly rare and exclusive display of antiquities that remains relatively undiscovered by the public. This collection of fascinating artifacts contains pottery, metalwork, and textiles from multiple Peruvian cultures, dating from as far back as 500BC – such as the Quero ceramic vases of the Tiwanaku culture.
Once you have concluded your tour of the museum, you’ll head for an early lunch in Barranco and one of Marisol’s favorite dining destinations. At the intimate Isolina restaurant, you’ll enjoy an authentic Peruvian lunch in a relaxed atmosphere before moving on to the afternoon’s activity.
After lunch, you’ll travel 30 minutes by car into the center of Lima. Here you’ll begin to further unravel Peru’s multifaceted history and discover the complex past of the city with a visit to an ancient adobe pyramid right in the heart of Lima. Huaca Huallamarca, which dates to around 200 BC, served a variety of functions, including a religious temple and a cemetery, for the populations that inhabited the area.
You’ll then continue your journey to the colonial area of Lima featuring the Cathedral, the Convent of Santo Domingo, and the Main Square with its beautiful neo-colonial style buildings. You will also have a chance to visit Casa Aliaga, reportedly the oldest home on the continent and one that is still family-owned after 17 generations.
Of course, should you wish to visit a particular site such as La Casona de San Marcos; the Convent of San Francisco and its catacombs; Huaca Pucllana; or the Museo de la Inquisition – this can be arranged for you. It’s also possible to organize private cocktails at Casa Aliaga too if you’re interested in an afternoon tipple.
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 Osaka. One of Lima’s most sought-after restaurants, Osaka is a pioneer of Nikkei cuisine, which combines Japanese and Peruvian flavors and cooking techniques. Your Aracari guide will be able to recommend the best dishes to introduce you to this style of gastronomy, providing you with a full foodie experience in Peru.
After you’ve eaten, you’ll be taken back to Hotel B for a restful night ready for the next day of adventure.
Accommodation options0- Day 3
Lima - Sacred ValleyView on map
Visit the rural Andean communities high in the mountainous region of Lamay in the Sacred Valley.
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.
Your private transfer will take around 2 hours to a lovely spot in the sleepy village of Lamay (2914m / 9560ft). Once you arrive in the village, you’ll be taken to La Base Lamaythe perfect spot to enjoy an early morning coffee, with a neighboring store to browse and purchase local art and craft.
From here, you will journey by vehicle into the mountains, where you’ll receive a warm welcome from the local community. The first activity of the day will see you participate in farming labor alongside the locals. Depending on the season and the agricultural calendar, you will farm a variety of plants and native crops (such as corn, potatoes, tarwi, and quinoas).
If you’re interested, there will be an opportunity to learn more about gastronomy in the Andes. Your hosts will share their traditional recipes, and you’ll be invited to participate in the preparation of a nutritious and 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.
At the end of the experience, your Aracari guide, and driver will take you to the Sol y Luna Hotel and Spa, where you can spend the evening relaxing, taking in your blissful soundings deep in the Sacred Valley.
Accommodation options
- Day 4
Sacred ValleyView on map
Enjoy a day of wilderness adventure with our experience, ‘Sacred Mountains and Mythical Lakes: A High-Altitude Andean Adventure’.
Today you will meet your hiking guide (and your accompanying llama guides!) in the mountainous village of 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.
You’ll find a gradual uphill trail before reaching the Puna meadows and wetlands of the Community of Poques. 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. Now you will stop to enjoy your delicious Aracari box lunch – beautifully prepared using local, organic ingredients – taking your time to savor the taste and the view!
After lunch, 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 hotel, where you can enjoy the evening reflecting on an incredible day in the mountains.
Accommodation options- Day 5
Sacred ValleyView on map
Explore Pre-Columbian Maras and Moray and discover the ancient practice of Andean weaving, followed by a gourmet foodie experience.
This morning, you’ll head for a guided visit of the breathtaking Maras salt pans, which have been in use since Pre-Incan times. As well as stopping at the enigmatic Inca terraces of Moray. Likely used for agricultural experimentation, Moray consists of several enormous circular terraces, which are truly a sight to behold.
Next, visit the traditional weaving town of Chinchero and the Center for Traditional Textiles. Founded by longtime friend of Aracari, Nilda Callanaupa, the center is a pioneering force doing a wonderful job in preserving ancient Andean textiles techniques and ensuring this legacy can be appreciated by younger generations.
During the visit, you’ll enjoy a full demonstration of the craft, and even try your hand at the technique. The weavers will tell you about the different types of fiber used including llama, alpaca, and sheep, after which you’ll be taken to Nilda’s showroom and shop, where you’ll be able to purchase exquisite, authentic textiles.
For lunch, you’ll head to MIL – the Sacred Valley restaurant of Virgilio Martinez, the mastermind behind Lima’s world-renowned restaurant Central. With its simple and clean architecture, the restaurant is built right above the circular Inca terraces of Moray.
During your visit, Aracari guests can opt for the one-of-a-kind tasting menu. Each of the 8 courses within this exquisite menu reflects the 8 different ecosystems found at the restaurant’s high altitude of 3,600 m / 11,800 ft. Virgilio Martinez has been experimenting with cooking at this altitude for many years and has worked extremely closely with three nearby indigenous communities, exploring their techniques for farming, growing, and cooking in this remote region. You’ll be invited to see the on-site food labs and hear how Virgilio has made close connections with the locals, investing in an irrigation system that cleans the water to feed the crops the communities grow. In return, the communities provide crops for the restaurant.
After lunch, your Aracari guide and driver will take you via private transfer back to Sol y Luna. Once back at the hotel, you’ll be treated to a hot stone massage at the luxury onsite spa – the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.
Accommodation options- Day 6
Inca Trail - Machu PicchuView on map
Alight a Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes, before hiking the one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a wonder of the ancient world.
Today you’ll board a Vistadome train headed for Machu Picchu, featuring spectacular panoramic windows offering impressive views of the surrounding valley. Alternatively, you can upgrade to the Hiram Bingham luxury train to Machu Picchu – and of course, we can also arrange private charter train services. The journey takes approximately 1.5hrs to Aguas Calientes, where you will then begin the one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu accompanied by a specialist Aracari guide.
This one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu allows you to arrive at the world-famous ruins by foot and avoid the usual crowds that arrive by train and bus. Most of the trek is uphill with a fair number of precipices and covers approximately 12km (7.5mi), which is about five hours of hiking. On the way, you will visit Wiñay Wayna, a remarkable Inca site that is only approachable on foot.
Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you will enter the ruins with time to take in the fantastic views. 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.
Tonight, you’ll stay in the nearby Inkaterra Machu Picchu, ready for an early morning start.
Accommodation options
- Day 7
Machu Picchu - CuscoView on map
Take in the sublime beauty of Machu Picchu and hike Huayna Picchu
Return to Machu Picchu with your guide early in the morning, hiking to the 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 the bus back to the town of Aguas Calientes to catch the Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo for your private transfer to Cusco, taking approximately 2 hours. Or, upgrade to the luxurious Hiram Bingham train for your ride to the ancient city. Then check in to the blissful Palacio Nazarenas Belmond hotel in Cusco for an evening of restful relaxation.
Accommodation options
- Day 8
CuscoView on map
Explore ancient and artistic Cusco.
You’ll start your exploration of Cusco on foot, beginning at the Plaza de Armas, the Main Square. One of the most historic plazas on the continent, you’ll find exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture and ornamentation imposed by Spanish colonists to exert religious and political influence. The Inca relics remain in the city too, your expert guide will point out the original Incan solid stonework that lines the cobbled streets.
Next, visit Koricancha, the most fascinating ‘Sun Temple in the Inca Empire, along with the breathtaking Cathedral, a repository for Cusco’s colonial art, as well as many other important archaeological relics and artifacts. You will also stop by the colorful San Pedro market and pass through the charming neighborhood of San Blas.
In the afternoon, you’ll meet with our ‘friend in the city’ who will take you through some of Cusco’s most charming creative spaces and local food spots during our experience ‘Creative Footsteps and Nibbles’. Cusco’s rich history has inspired countless local visionaries to launch some of the best shops, galleries, and ateliers in Peru. On this 4-hour guided walking tour, you’ll experience the unique energy of these destinations up close, while stopping to sample local delicacies.
Return to Palacio Nazarenas Belmond hotel and let your Aracari representative take care of your dinner reservations for your final evening in Cusco.
Accommodation options- Day 9
CuscoView on map
Explore the ancient citadel of Sacsayhuaman before heading back to Lima for the gastronomic delights of Maido restaurant.
This morning you’ll visit Sacsayhuaman with your Aracari guide. Sacsayhuaman is an Inca citadel atop a hill, on the outskirts of the city. Not only are the imposing terraces of masterful stonework a sight to behold, but the vistas overlooking the sienna rooftops of Cusco provide a whole new perspective to the city you just traversed.
In the afternoon, your Aracari guide and driver will take you via private transfer to Cusco airport where you will catch your domestic flight to Lima. Once settled into your suite at Hotel B, you will enjoy dinner 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.
Head back to Hotel B for a restful evening ahead of your final day on your luxury vacation to Peru.
Accommodation options- Day 10
LimaView on map
Discover the delights of Peruvian cuisine with a relaxed guided market visit followed by an authentic cooking class.
For your final day in Peru, you will be whisked away on our experience ‘Friendly foodies: the social chefs of Lima’. 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 food that laden the tables. Sharing insider knowledge on the different elements of Peruvian cuisine and the essential ingredients that make up the nation’s signature dishes, your guide will stop to purchase some 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. 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!
After the experience, you’ll be gifted your very own recipe book – the perfect reading for your international flight home. Your Aracari guide and driver will now transfer you back to Lima airport, assisting with everything you need for a smooth onwards journey home.
Aracari specializes in tailormade travel. Here are just some of our further trip suggestions. Contact us for more bespoke ideas to inspire your travels.
Featured Destinations
Journey pricing as of 2024
Basic Pricing - US$8,300 per person
This is a sample journey and can be tailored to your interests and travel style.
- Based on two people travelling together in double or twin occupancy
- Price is per person for this 10-day itinerary
- Based on Hotel Selection 1: Hotel B, Sol y Luna (Deluxe), Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, Belmond Palacio Nazarenas Hotel
- Discounted children's rates on request
What's Included?
This journey is based on two people travelling together in double or twin occupancy, excluding flights (international and domestic).
- 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
- 9 nights in a hand-picked and personally tested selection of Peru’s finest hotels
What's not Included?
- Domestic flights (quoted separately).
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Tips.
- Travel Insurance.
- International Flights and airport taxes.
- Neither personal expenses nor any other service not specified in the itinerary.
Marisol’s FavoritePeru Insider - Day 2
