Peru Panorama

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Fully Guided Coach Group 18-30's Scenic
Sold Out
 Trip Length
11 Days
 Trip Starts
Lima
 Trip Finishes
Cusco
11 Day Peru Panorama Itinerary (Contiki)
Countries Explored: Peru
Trip Operator
Trip Style
In-Depth Explorer
Accommodation
2.5 - 3.5 Star
Max. Group Size
30
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
PPTR

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Contiki's 11 Day Peru Panorama. Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on this 11 day adventure. Experience the Colca Canyon, see the King of the Andes at Condor Cross & get up close to the locals & their unique way of life on Lake Titicaca floating islands. Pump up the volume in Cusco where action & adventure await, then wrap up the experience at Machu Picchu - washed down, of course, with some Pisco Sours & good times in Peru’s culturally rich hotspots. You can choose to either trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, or take it easy & go by train.

Itinerary

Welcome to Lima, adventurers! Steeped in Spanish colonialism yet buzzing with modern metro vibes, Lima is sure to ignite your love for Peru. Spend your morning marvelling at lavishly decorated churches and an underground tunnel cemetery overflowing with bones or catacombs, then hit the Barranco district this afternoon to get a feel for its bohemian ambiance. A stroll over the Bridge of Sighs is also a must.

And of course no trip to Lima is complete without devouring at least one portion of ceviche – it's a pretty massive deal in the city. Round off the day watching the sun set over the Pacific, most likely with a pisco sour in hand… (D) Stay: Selina Miraflores (or similar)

The skies are calling this morning as we board our included flight bound for the ‘White City' of Arequipa, Peru's second largest city which lies in the shadow of three majestic volcanoes.

The town of Arequipa, or La Ciudad Blanca, is both culturally and aesthetically astounding. A city tour will gets us orientated, taking in highlights including the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Plaza de Armas, then this evening is all about something we reckon you're going to love…food. Rocoto Relleno (stuffed hot peppers) and Chupe de Camarones (crayfish chowder) are both on the menu, and after a busy day exploring this ancient city, we'll sure be deserving of a feast. (B) Stay: Selina Arequipa (or similar)

Are you ready for another nature masterclass? Waving farewell to Arequipa this morning, we'll pass through Salinas and Aguada Blanco national reserve en route to one of the world's deepest canyons.

After a journey of windswept landscapes, sandstone cliff & stops for hot coca tea, we will arrive at the highest point of our entire journey, which at 4910 metres/16,108ft above sea level is the same height as Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak. Those jaws will be on the floor as you catch a first glimpse of this epic natural masterpiece. Can you feel the tingles already? (B/L/D) Stay: Hotel la casa de Mamayacchi (or similar)

This morning promises to be pretty mega as we hop out of bed in search for the King of the Andes, otherwise known as the Andean Condor, which boasts a mega 3-metre wingspan. Fingers crossed luck is on our side – some days we may spot 10 condors, other days none – but that's the fun of Mother Nature. Either way, the majestic view of the Colca Canyon never ceases to impress, and we know you'll leave feeling like you've witnessed something truly special. Back on the road, we'll roll past quaint villages, stop for lunch in Chivay, then head on to the high plains of Peru.

Yet more natural beauty will be dished up this afternoon as we pull in to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Spend the evening settling in to our cosy hotel, or head into town for some dance floor action but a word of warning – Puno sits at an altitude of 3657 metres, so go easy on the piscos and the energetic dancefloor moves as the altitude could leave you feeling more breathless than normal. Tomorrow promises to be one to remember as we take to the lake for a taste of ancient Peruvian life… (B) Stay: Hotel Casona Plaza (or similar)

Ready to explore this area in all its multi-coloured glory? We thought so. Jumping in a triciclo (a three-wheeled bike taxi) we'll bump our way down to the port and get our first taste of life on the Lake (fun fact – Lake Titicaca is South America's largest freshwater lake).

Our boat ride will take us first to Taquile Island, which to this day remains one of the most culturally intact communities in the whole of Peru, and it's here you'll meet local weaving groups and stop for lunch. After exploring, we'll then jump back on the boat and make for the Uros Islands, or as they're more commonly called, the floating islands.

Stepping off the boat you'll feel like you're walking on a water bed – unsurprising given the islands are made entirely from reeds. Here, we'll hang with locals, visit a fish farm and even explore the local museum (yes, on an island made from reeds). The island community survives by selling textiles and totora reed boats to tourists, so after stocking up on one-off souvenirs, tonight we are warmly welcomed by locals on a Home Stay at Llachon Village. (B/D) Stay: Lake Titicaca Homestay (or similar)

Heading out of Puno this morning we'll make our way to Pukara to visit a small museum offering up archaeological findings and Peru's iconic ceramic bulls. Hitting the road again we'll journey through the snow-capped surrounds of La Raya, stopping for lunch in the town of Sicuani. Eagle eyes, this is llama country, so have those cameras at the ready.

Ancient Incan culture suggest that the Raqchi ruins are sacred for their powerful healing waters. Your entry tickets on us, and our local guide will paint the full picture as we explore the ruins. The Temple of Wiracocha is the pride of the site, and we'll learn that the ruins were built as a village defence. History lesson complete we'll head on to Cusco, the next stop of our adventure.

Our final leg of the day lands us in Cusco, the hub of ancient Incan culture. This place is a feast for the senses and will call you out for an evening of exploration and maybe even some after dark antics, Cusco style. (B) Stay: Selina Saphi (or similar)

Heading out of Cusco and bound for the Sacred Valley on our private coach, this is where our journey into the ruins and mystique of this land truly begins. But first, llamas. An iconic symbol of Peru, we'll be stopping off at a llama farm to show some love to these furry favourites up close, and we're talking the whole humpback family – llamas, vicuna and alpacas. #llamaselfie achieved, we'll then stop off to witness the ancient Incan art of weaving in practise by a group of talented local artisans.

Throughout the journey, play close attention to your surrounds – there's the chance to spot the Incan farming technique of terracing and other local ways of life. Want to know what the Peruvians do for fun? You'll get the chance to play the traditional game of “Sapo”, and exactly what that entails we'll leave to the imagination… Our explorations of the Sacred Valley will begin with a guided tour of the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Our Local Guide will give you the d-l on both, visiting the circular terraced Pisac ruins first which date back to the 1400's.

Moving on to Ollantaytambo, base camp for those taking the trek tomorrow, we'll appease dry mouths with some homemade Chicha de Jora brew. This tiny town may be small in geographical terms, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in attitude, with artisan shops and cafes spilling out onto streets, and the roaring Urubamba river providing the perfect natural background noise.

For those embarking on the Inca trail tomorrow this is your final chance to stock up on last minute essentials (socks, socks and more socks). For all others, spend your time soaking in the vibes, hanging with other travellers and just getting a feel for this iconic little town. (B) Stay: Tunupa Lodge Ollantaytambo (or similar)

For those embarking on our epic 1 day trek, we'll catch the train to KM104 and the start of a day to remember. With just 3.5 hours on foot and 6-kilometres to cover, the enchanting site that awaits us will make it all worthwhile. Descending into the site we'll take in Huayna Picchu 'Little peak' – the iconic peak you'll have seen in every picture ever – marvelling at the incredible handiwork of the ancient Incas.

Satisfaction levels at an all-time high and with a big ol' smile on your tired face, we'll head back to Aguas Calientes and a squishy hotel bed you couldn't be more deserving of.    For those not embarking on the Inca Trail, the morning is yours to enjoy the surrounding lush mountains of Aguas Calientes.  

Can you feel the excitement mounting? Yep – those are pretty much the feels when Machu Picchu is quite literally on the horizon. This afternoon we'll hop on the train to Aguas Calientes, a cute town in its own right complete with roaring river, quaint bridges and local haunts, but most famously known as the gateway town to Machu Picchu. We'll meet up with those who opted for the one day trek, and basically spend the evening hyping each other up for what's to come tomorrow. (B) Stay: Inka Tower Machupicchu Hotel (or similar)

Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we've all been waiting for is finally here – it's Machu Picchu time! Built around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We'll be treated to a guided tour of the site taking in such wonders as the Temple of the Three Windows and Wayana Picchu (the peak you'll of seen in every Machu Picchu image ever), and of course you'll have some alone time to explore the area as only you can do. This is one big old tick off the life goals list, so enjoy every single second of it.

Back on the train we'll de-brief on our once-in-a-lifetime experience as we head back to Cusco. Last time round was all about getting acquainted with the city, so now you've got you're bearings you can really get lost amongst the market stalls and cobbled streets, maybe even going truly local by trying out a serving of cuy. (B) Stay: Selina Saphi (or similar)

The last few days have been pretty full on, so today is all about seeking out some much needed r'n'r. Grab a lie in at the hotel then sip fresh mountain coffee in the Plaza de Armas, or maybe take a stroll around town to pick up an alpaca sweater or ten (they are super snuggly). Can't shake that taste for adventure? We hear you. (B)

Having bonded deeply over the moving spiritual quest time to say our goodbyes. We'll share one last breakfast together before going our separate ways and continuing on to our next adventure - armed with incredible memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Lima: Get to know this magnificent clifftop city. It's steeped in history and pretty architecture. But we're all about the epic food.
  • Lima: Sit tight as you swoop into Peru's second biggest city. The views of volcanic peaks are rivalled only by the incredible food.
  • Arequipa: Get to know the ‘white city' better. Explore the highlights like Plaza de Armas and take some pics of the incredible backdrop of volcanoes
  • Colca Canyon: It's a real ‘pinch yourself' moment as you ramble around the Andean plateaus, discovering lakes, meadows, llamas and flamingos as you go.
  • Colca Canyon: See these iconic volcanos IRL. Pics or it didn't happen!
  • Colca Canyon: Brave the lookout point at 3287m. Take in the unrivalled views and spot some Andean Condor birds.
  • Colca Canyon: Experience life in this traditional Peruvian village in the Colca Canyon. It's an epic 3277 m above sea level!
  • Puno: If you've secretly always wanted to hop on one of these, here's your chance.
  • Puno: Jump on a boat to hop around the reed islands in the world's highest navigable lake (3657m). And stop off to meet the locals.
  • Puno: A humbling opportunity to get to know the local people on these reed islands in Lake Titicaca.
  • Puno: Immerse yourself in culture but getting to know the locals,
  • Puno: Stop off at two traditional Peruvian towns. Step up your cultural knowledge at Pukara's museum. Then take in the scenic views of Sicuani.
  • : See the sights and learn the backstory of why the Incas built this temple for the deity Wiracocha
  • : Unleash your spiritual side, as you explore the ancient Inca ruins and become blessed by the sacred water.
  • Sacred Valley: See this former heartland of the Incan Empire and hike around the Pisac ruins.
  • Cusco: These fluffy camelids are so much more than just the stars of comical memes. Get to know them better at this specialist farm.
  • Sacred Valley: The sleepy town will give you a taste of local life in the Sacred Valley. Don't forget to pick up some mementos at the market
  • Cusco: AKA ‘corn beer'. This ceremonial bevvy was the drink of choice for Incan nobility.
  • Machu Picchu: Feel the goosebumps of excitement as you glide into Aguas Calientes and get ready to start this life-changing experience.
  • Machu Picchu: It's the moment you've been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals

  • 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners

  • 8 nights in Hotels, 1 night in Hostel, 1 night in Special Stay

  • Expert Trip Manager & Driver Team + Local Guides

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Play Youtube Video

Brochure

Worldwide

Contiki Worldwide (2023-24)

Ready for a global adventure with the best people you’ve never met? You’re in the right brochure. Safari. Sunbathing. Great cities or even greater landscapes. Whatever your vibe. Whatever your continent. Contiki have got you covered.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Contiki. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Contiki. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar Tours

12 Day Hola Colombia (Contiki)

12 Days Bogota Cartagena

Operated By: Contiki

From 4,362
Save 748
12 Day Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper (Contiki)

12 Days Quito Quito

Operated By: Contiki

From 5,983
Save 642
14 Day Peru Uncovered with Inca Trail Trek (Contiki)

14 Days Lima Lima

Operated By: Contiki

From 6,120
Save 1,145