Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Andean peaks, Amazonian rainforest, Patagonian glaciers, Incan ruins, white-sand beaches and vertiginous nightlife: the wonders of South America set the stage for incredible adventures.

Peru is a magical place which involves one of the richest bio-diversities on Earth & a melting pot of cultures. While Peru inevitably evokes the images of the world wonder Machu Picchu & the Inca Empire, the country is riddled with natural beauty of the great Andes & archaeological sites which are a legacy of even more ancient times when great civilizations bequeathed a legacy of their art, customs & rituals, their wisdom & skills.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant capital city Lima, dubbed as the City of Kings, shrouded in history (& sometimes fog), gloriously messy & full of aesthetic delights, its rich culture & stunning attractions.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? – Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in and provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Lima offers an extraordinary range of emotions, sensations, colors & flavors. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the modern city is a curious mix of the modern mega city with some 'islands of modernity', large but orderly slum areas & colonial architecture in the city center.

In Lima everything is in endless movement & even the past is constantly being rediscovered. It was the seat of the Spanish rule during 300 years & consequently, it has wonderful Churches, Cloisters & Monasteries that are worth a visit.

After Cairo, this sprawling metropolis is the 2^nd driest world capital, rising above a long coastline of crumbling cliffs. To enjoy it, climb on the wave of chaos that spans high-rise condos built alongside pre-Columbian temples & fast Pacific breakers rolling toward noisy traffic jams.

But Lima is also sophisticated, with a civilization that dates back millennia. Stately Museums display sublime pottery; Galleries debut edgy art; solemn religious processions recall the 18^th century & crowded nightclubs dispense tropical beats. Visitors can visit the city’s impressive Cathedral, fly over the ocean, enjoy a photogenic sunset

Lima is a place of converging trends, created by its people & their living culture, where you will find every corner of Peru represented. Hailed as the food capital of Latin America, no visitor can miss Lima’s culinary genius, part of a gastronomic revolution more than 400 years in the making. Best place to try the wonderful Peruvian cuisine at the seafood restaurants which have a huge variety of ingredients from coast, mountain & Amazon regions. The cold sea current in front of Peru's large coast makes the sea very rich in fish & seafood, which have a great taste due to the special plankton they eat.

Afternoon at 02:00 pm, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby & proceed for a 4 hour sightseeing tour.

The Tour-guide knows the heart of Peru as only locals do & is eager to show you what he loves about Lima, based on your travel interests. See classic historical sights, colonial & Inca influenced architecture, residential neighborhoods, beautiful Shrines & Churches & incredible panoramic seascapes.

You will see the major attractions that appeal to you, but also some off-beat & interesting places that will make your visit especially memorable.

Lima was the political, administrative, religious & economic capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru & the most important city of the Spanish dominions in South America. Head to the Lima Historical Center, known as the “Ciudad de los Reyes” (City of Kings) in the old side of the city, the seat of the Viceroyalty. The Centre bears witness to the architecture & urban development of a Spanish colonial town of great political, economic & cultural importance.

The evangelization process brought several religious orders by the end of the 16^th century. They gained great recognition which translated into the construction of many Churches & Convents of great sophistication. Also, hospitals, schools & universities including San Marcos was built in 1551. The city’s social & cultural life was organized within these places, thus giving the Historic Centre a Convent image which characterized the urban profile of the city until half of the 20^th century.

Stop at the small Parque del Amor (“Love Park”) in Miraflores, built in a peculiar Gaudi style, protected from the ocean breeze by a colorful wall of Mosaics. Dedicated to all lovers, a monstrously large statue "El Beso" (The Kiss) by sculptor Victor Delfín shows 2 lovers united in an intimate kiss. The Park offers a stunning view over the Bay of Lima & it is really romantic here at sunrise & sunset.

Next, proceed to the upscale residential district of San Isidro to see Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe & clay Pyramid, dating from around 500 CE, in a famous ceremonial center built by members of the Lima culture, a Pre-Incan indigenous coastal civilization that lasted in the region from around 100 CE to 650 CE, before the Spaniards arrived.

The Lima culture & their contemporaries were notable for their mastery of irrigation, creating sprawling networks to carry much-needed water from springs & rivers, which allowed them to develop settlements across considerable territory. Huaca Pucllana served partially as an administrative site for the surrounding irrigation zone & spaces were likely used for public meetings, storage & other production related undertakings focused along its eastern side. The other half was a ceremonial sector, containing the 22 meter high Pyramid used for religious rites.

Lima’s 140 square meter Plaza de Armas (or Plaza Mayor), was not only the heart of the 16^th century settlement established by Francisco Pizarro, conqueror of Peru, it was a the birthplace of Peru's capital & the center of the Spaniards’ continent-wide empire. Though not one original building remains, at the center of the plaza is an impressive bronze fountain erected (on what once was the grounds of the city's gallows) in 1650. The Plaza remains the city's main hub.

Surrounding the Plaza are a number of significant historic landmarks: to the east is the Palacio Arzobispal, built in 1924 in a colonial style & boasting some of the most exquisite Moorish-style balconies in the city. To the northeast is the block-long Palacio de Gobierno (the official residence of Peru's President). At noon, there is a traditional Changing of the Guards there.

There is the 17^th century Lima Cathedral which hosts the Tomb of Francisco Pizarro. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Church of Santo Domingo, a place which holds the remains of 2 of the major saints of the colony: Santa Rosa de Lima & San Martin de Porres.

The main Plaza is a great place to admire many of the colonial architectural gems whose grandeur is sure to capture your fascination.

Continuing your tour, you will pass by other colonial architectural jewels, such as Torre Tagle Palace, Osambela House, finishing with a short visit to Larco Herrera Archaeological (or Gold) Museum. Depending on the time, you may also visit the Museum of Religious Art.

Just a few minutes from the Plaza, is the historic Gran Hotel Bolivar, where many Hollywood stars, singers, politicians & famous authors have stayed. The list includes: former American President Nixon, Ernest Hemingway & Mick Jagger, among others.

The sightseeing concludes & return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Overnight.  

Morning, you will be met by a Journeys Rep / Driver & transferred to Terminal? – Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport for your flight to Cuzco.

Arrive in the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas, high-flying Andean city of Cuzco (also Cusco, or Qosq’o in Quechua), the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city & the gateway to Machu Picchu.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? – Cusco  Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in & relax .

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

UNESCO World Heritage listed Cusco witnessed the arrival of the Spanish & yet to this day it conserves an ancestral magic which captivates the thousands of visitors who each year form part of its living history. Acknowledged as the historic capital of Peru, it is renowned as the navel of the Earth.

Cosmopolitan Cuzco thrives with a measure of contradiction is the uneasy bearer of many grand titles. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire. Every corner offers a piece of history & every story is captivating, mystical & inviting and the stones remain alive because they have survived intact. Merely walking through the streets of the Inca capital, with names like “Ataud” (Coffin), Siete Culebras (7 Serpents) & “Arpías” (Harpies) where time seems to have stopped, one discerns the layers of history & get a glimpse of the richest heritage of any South American city.

Cuzco is a beautiful city with well preserved colonial architecture, evidence of a rich & complex history. Spanish colonial buildings erected directly atop Inca walls line the Square, while the modern tourist nightlife flourishes in their midst. Married to 21^st century hustle, Cuzco can be a bit disconcerting (note the McDonald's set in Inca stones).

Nowadays, Cuzco is known for its indigenous Quechua population - often seen on the streets in traditional clothing - & its substantial tourist-fueled night life.

While Cuzco has rapidly developed infrastructure to at least partly cope with the influx of tourism over the last few decades, its historical past retains a powerful grip on the present. Massive Inca-built walls line steep, narrow cobblestone streets & form the foundations of modern buildings. The Plazas are thronged with Quechua-speaking descendants of the Incas & ancient treasures are carefully guarded inside colonial Mansions & Churches.

Ornate Cathedrals squat over Inca temples, massage hawkers ply the narrow cobblestone passages, a rural Andean woman feeds bottled water to her pet llama while the finest Boutiques sell pricey alpaca knits.

The city is surrounded by a number of ruins, the most impressive being Sacsayhuaman, the site of the 1536 battle in which dozens of Pizarro's men charged uphill to battle the forces of the Inca.

Later in the afternoon at 02:00 pm, immerse yourself in the grand colonial majesty of Cusco on a  4 hour sightseeing tour. 

Wander winding Incan streets to discover the ancient Temple of the Sun, the sacred Convent of Santa Domingo and the colossal Cusco Cathedral. Gain insight into the fascinating history of the city with an interesting & informative Tour-guide as you explore one of Peru’s most treasured places on foot.

Begin the tour at the ambient Inglesia de San Cristobal built in the early years of the conquest by the Indian chief Christopher Paulla, lord of Qolqanpata, to show his devotion to Christianity. The Church was erected on the grounds of the first Inca Qollqanpata Palace, which belonged precisely to the first Inca “Manco Capac”, who according to the theory came from the highlands, along with his “Coya” (wife) known as “Mama Ocllo” with the mission to found the Empire of the Incas.

The location of this Palace was strategic, since it was in the mountains- which prevented possible floods, as Cusco was once a lake. It is said that the 11 niches that resemble windows were destined to bury the entire dynasty of the Inca, because they are positioned facing north in connection with the god “Inti” (Sun). Inside the Convent a “Ushnu” stands out, a sacred place for the Incas, where they performed “repayment ceremonies” to the land.

One can appreciate golden works done by great masters. Both the front & the tabernacle are made of solid silver. There are pictures worthy of contemplation; paintings, made in the style of famous European masters (especially of Raphael named “The Divine”), whose distinctive piece is adorned in gold. There are also well-turned railings, golden altarpieces & altars of remarkable fine carving. The huge statue of the patron saint is paraded in a procession on the Holiday of Corpus Christi.

Absorb panoramic views before proceeding to colorful vibrant, not to be missed, San Pedro Market, by Peruvians for Peruvians even though a large percentage of the shops sell souvernirs to tourists. There are juice stands & many local eateries towards the back. Browse artisan treasures & vibrant stalls, perhaps purchasing a special souvenir to take home.

Next, venture to the sacred Sun Temple (El Korikancha or Qoricancha), the central site of worship for the Incas. Like so many other testimonies of fantastic Inca architecture, it was severely devastated by the Conquistadores, the Spanish conquerors, who built their Christian church, Santo Domingo, on top of the ruins. The fairly well preserved site contains both Catholic & Inca heritage with stunning views of the surrounding area. Looking at the outside from Avenida del Sol, there is a perfect view of the Church standing on the Temple & visitors can distinguish the differences between the Inca & the Spanish style of building.

Qoricancha also is the starting point of the yearly processions at Inti Raymi, (Sun Festival), in the rememberance of the Inca tradition of celebrating the winter solstice. This procession then moves all the way up to Saxayhuaman.  Legend has it that the Temple was covered in solid gold initially. Admire the architectural precision of the interior before touring the consecrated confines while listening to captivating commentary by the Tour-guide. 

See, too, the Artisan’s Quarters of San Blas, a picturesque area over which an impressive Church reigns supreme.

San Blas is undoubtedly one of the most important attractions within the city of Cusco. Its narrow cobbled streets, its colonial houses, its Church with its wooden pulpit, its workshops, its art galleries, its coffee shops, its restaurants, its people & its colors are a clear example of our miscegenation. Until the 90s, the main attraction of San Blas were its picturesque streets & artisan workshops. It was common for children from local schools, at least once a year, to visit the workshops of some illustrious artists of Mendivil, Aguayo, Merida & Olave families, as part of their school curriculum.

Walk around historical Plaza de Armas; the Square has Churches, Shops, Restaurants & Bars backing on to it & it is a great place to spend an afternoon except for the persistent hawkers selling cheap souvenirs.

Last point will be the pedestrian Hatun Rumiyoc (great rock) street to admire the Inca architecture found along almost the whole length near Plaza de Armas.

The Archbishop’s Palace there is now converted into an Art Museum with a fine collection of colonial art. The ancient Palace was built by Inka Roca, the of the Hanan Cusco dynasty. Its walls were made by fitting green diorite stones of different sizes & shapes, weaved so perfectly that not even a needle can be passed in between.

On the walls of the Palace of Inka Roca, are examples of the Inca, Colonial & Republican architecture and the 3 styles allow us to compare the abilities of the Inka Empire’s stone masons & their particular aesthetic. There are vendors - restaurants, handicraft stores from many different nationalities offering bracelets, necklaces, weavings, rings & other accessories, wood carvers, paintings, etc. lined up along the cobbled street.  Light, as it plays on these walls of perfectly carved stones, creates a different scene with every passing hour.

The sightseeing ends & you are transferred back to the hotel with your newfound cultural knowledge.

Balance of the evening free for independent exploration (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Overnight.   B  

Today, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & embark on a full day excursion to see the beautiful Río Urubamba Valley, popularly known as El Valle Sagrado (the Sacred Valley)..

Sacred Valley is a stunning stretch of landscape dotted with little villages & ruins that sit wedged between an expansive plain & jagged slopes under the tawny skirts of formidable foothills, northwest of Cusco reached via a narrow road of hairpin turns.

It was called the Sacred Valley because it contains some of the best land in the region & was not a part of the Empire but the property of the Emperor or Inca himself.

Stretching roughly 60 km, the Sacred Valley in Peru's Andean highlands, along with the nearby town of Cusco & the ancient city of Machu Picchu, formed the heart of the Inca Empire. Making the place so lush & arable is the valley’s river, the Rio Urubamba, considered one of the crucial pins of the universe by the Incas, who tied it to the behaviors of both the stars & the planets. Labeled “The Sacred River” & upstream as “The House of the Sun”, much of life revolved around it.

Known for its imposing Inca ruins, some of the most majestic on the continent, the area was once the Inca center of religious ceremonies, which included enormous Palaces, Estates & Temples, all lining the route between Cusco & the citadel of Machu Picchu. Established, according to legend, by Manco Capac - founder of the Incan civilization - when he was bidden by the gods to walk from Lake Titicaca to the spot where he could plunge his whole golden staff into the ground, fecund Urubamba fitted the bill perfectly.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, envelops a fertile agricultural landscape, punctuated by small Spanish colonial villages like Pisac & Ollantaytambo, of Quechua-speaking communities & dotted with the surviving remains of great Inca family estates.

The climate of Urubamba is typical of the Valley & it was the most important area for maize production in the heartland of the Inca Empire. Access through the Valley to tropical areas facilitated the import of products such as coca leaf & chilly peppers to Cuzco.

Still resolutely traditional in its habits today, the Andean weavers continue to weave & locals wear customary dress, sell their wares at the markets in the little village of Chinchero, work the fields & speak the main language of the ancient Incan Empire - Quechuan - more popularly known as Runa Simi or “the people’s language”. Ask them what the recipes to the vivid dyes are or what the significance is of the symbolic patterns they have woven for centuries.

It is worth exploring this peaceful, fetching corner of the Andes with colonial towns & isolated weaving villages. Star attractions are the lofty Inca citadels of Pisac & Ollantaytambo which preside over its undulating twists & turns. But it is also packed with other Inca sites as well as hectic markets & fetching Andean villages.

Its myriad trekking routes are deservedly gaining in popularity. Adrenaline activities range from rafting.  It is also famous for some high-adrenaline activities, from rafting to trekking to rock climbing to drifting off in a hot-air balloon.

First stop will be Pisac, which is the most convenient starting point for a visit to the Sacred Valley. There are 2 distinct parts to Pisac (also spelled Pisaq) - the colonial village lying beside the river & the Inca fortress perched dramatically on a mountain spur above. It is also famous for its Mass (Sundays only) which is attended by the 'Mayors' of the neighboring villages, complete in typical traditional dress & carrying their traditional 'Varayoc' or staff of office. Guests also enjoy the colorful Indian Market (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday only), where they have a good opportunity to try their bargaining skills & interact with the local craftsmen to purchase their hand-made souvenirs.

After lunch in a local restaurant, you will drive to Ollantaytambo with its magnificent mountain stairway to see the remarkable Inca fortress. Among other things, you will be intrigued by 6 enormous pink stones, each weighing some 50 tons. These came from the other side of the river, but nobody knows how they were transported, since the Incas did not use the wheel. Ollantaytambo was one of the last Inca sites to fall to the Spanish & the narrow streets along with their channels have not varied from the time that Incas evoke their ancestral inheritance. Set on a plateau in the mountains, the Village is the venue for indigenous festivals such as Ollantay Raymi, a celebration of the Inca sun god.

Move to the Chinchero village, on a high plain with sweeping views of snow-laden peaks, believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow. This typical Andean village combines Inca ruins with a colonial church, some wonderful mountain views & a colorful Sunday market which is much less tourist-orientated than the market at Pisac.

Next, view the incredible terraced salt pans of Maras that date back millennia. A patchwork of pinks, tans & browns, bleached to an off-white in the sun, it is where the Incas diverted a salty spring into large, shallow ponds in order to evaporate the water, leaving heaps of that most yearned-for of condiments: salt. 3 miles to the west, in Moray, there are baffling circular terraces that resemble amphitheaters but appear to have been used for agricultural experiments. In Moray, guests may experience & witness Pachamama ceremony (or a “Payment to the Earth”), in which a local Shaman performs the centuries old ritual of honoring & revering the earth as a source of life.

The tour ends & you return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening free for independent exploration (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Overnight.  B L

Very early in the morning, meet the Tour-guide & embark on a full day - 14 hours- - excursion to the breathtaking Machu Picchu, the world-famous Incan ruins.

You will get on a bus to be transferred to Ollantaytambo Railway Station about 62 km away, where you will board the Peru Rail Vistadome Observatory Train.

Ollantaytambo is a village in the Sacred Valley of south Peru, set on the Urubamba River amid snow-capped mountains. It is known for the Ollantaytambo ruins, a massive Inca fortress with large stone terraces on a hillside. Worth seeing are a huge Sun Temple & the Princess Baths fountain. The village's old town is an Inca-era grid of cobblestoned streets & adobe buildings.

Travelling for 2 hours on the Vistadome is a unique experience as you enjoy the scenic views through big panoramic windows, passing through the magical landscape right along the Urubamba River through Urubamba Valley (Sacred Valley of the Incas) with dramatic canyon walls on either side. Few experiences are more rewarding than settling down into one of its panoramic viewing cars & peering out at everything from mountain passes to rainforest, deep ravines to Incan stonework. Almost every episode along the way is packed full of nature’s wonders, including wildlife such as condors, llamas, fluorescent frogs and much, much more.  Peru Rail, even showcases the authentic culture through a traditional Saqra dance & music presentation and a Fashion Show (on the return trip in the evening only) on board.

Arrive at the quaint little town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), the nearest Railhead & a gateway to the nearby Inca ruins. 

The town, in a deep gorge below the ruins in the Urubamba River Valley, is known for its Thermal Baths. A virtual island, it is cut off from all roads & enclosed by stone cliffs, towering cloud forest & 2 rushing rivers. Despite its gorgeous location, Aguas Calientes has the feel of a gold rush town, with a large itinerant population, slack services that count on one-time customers and an architectural tradition of rebar & unfinished cement.

The town center is full of eateries & shops, anchored by the central Mercado Artesanal, a craft market with merchants pushing the hard sell. Northwest, along the river, are Los Jardines de Mandor, a garden with orchids & birds & Butterfly House, a local conservation project.

You will board a small bus & drive 89 km to see the fabulous ruins of the “sacred city” & the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu.

Shrouded by mist & surrounded by lush vegetation & steep escarpments, the sprawling Inca Citadel lives up to every expectation.

In a spectacular location, it is the best-known archaeological site on the continent. Completed in approximately 1450 at the height of the Incan empire, Machu Picchu was abandoned less than 100 years later following the Spanish conquest of Peru. This awe-inspiring ancient city was never revealed to the conquering Spaniards & was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20^th century.

Today it is considered by many to be the new spiritual center of the world. Like the Mona Lisa or the Pyramids, it has been seared into our collective consciousness, though nothing can diminish the thrill of being here. The government has mandated an upper limit of 5940 people in the complex (including the Inca Trail) daily to control the damage.

The Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial & agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family & priests.

Stroll through town squares & main streets of these amazing ruins and climb delicately carved stone stairways.

Enjoy a picnic lunch & continue exploring the ruins on your own. There will be time to fully embrace this magnificent wonder of the world, letting this once in a lifetime experience set in.

Later In the afternoon, hop aboard the bus again to descend back to Aguas Calientes.

Spend time walking around to explore the village & interacting with the friendly locals & in the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo.

On arrival at the Station, you will be welcomed by a Journeys rep who will transfer you to the hotel in Cuzco.

Overnight.   B L D 

Early morning, you will be transferred to the Cusco Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport to board the short flight to Juliaca, enroute to Puno, a picturesque hillside city overlooking Lake Titicaca.

On arrival at Juliaca Manco Capac Airport, you will be welcomed by a Journeys Rep / Driver & transferred to Puno, passing through picturesque villages. 

But before leaving the city, you will have a brief orientation drive through Juliaca (which does not offer much to the tourists).

Juliaca is a city in the San Roman province of southern Peru. The region’s only commercial airport makes Juliaca, the largest city on the altiplano, an unavoidable transit hub & a jumping-off point for Lake Titicaca, the vast Andean lake marked by Inca ruins & floating villages. The city bustles with commerce (& contraband) due to its handy location near the Bolivian border.

In the central Plaza Bolognesi, vendors at the Galería Artesanal Las Calceteras market sell handicrafts & wool products. Churches include Templo de la Merced on the plaza & Iglesia Matriz de Santa Catalina to the northwest.

Drive on & arrive at your hotel in Puno.

Puno is a city in southern Peru on Lake Titicaca, one of South America's largest lakes & the world's highest navigable body of water. According to legend, everything began in Puno when Manco Capac & Mama Ocllo emerged from Lake Titicaca to found the Inca dynasty.

The town was founded in 1668, near the site of the now-defunct colonial silver mine of Laykakota. Few colonial buildings remain, but the streets are merrily claustrophobic & the markets filled with local women garbed in many-layered dresses & bowler hats.

As a trade (& contraband) hub between Peru, Bolivia & both coasts of South America, Puno is overwhelmingly commercial & forward-looking. Its urban center can feel contaminated & cold. With a regal Plaza, concrete block buildings & crumbling bricks that blend into the hills, the small port town of Puno has its share of both grit & cheer.

Smoke from unvented fires wafts through Puno’s streets, along with jangling waves of traffic, including Moto-taxis & Triciclos (3-wheeled cycles) that edge pedestrians to the narrow slivers of sidewalks.

It serves as the jumping-off point to make forays to the majestic Lake Titicaca’s various islands or to surrounding archaeological sites such as Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, Sicuani, La Raya & Pukara.

The city is also considered as the ‘Capital folklorica del Peru’ (folkloric capital of Peru) due to the wealth of its artistic & cultural expressions, featuring vibrant music & dance during its traditional festivals - its Virgen de la Candelaria parades are televised across the nation - & the associated drinking is the stuff of legend. Puno is famous for the hospitality of its people & the joyfulness of their festivities & rituals. People are upbeat, cheeky & ready to drop everything if there is a good time to be had.

But it may just capture your heart with its own rackety charm. In Puno, every breath of air you take will make you part of its history & the incredible natural landscapes. Good times aren’t restricted to religious festivals only, though. Some of Peru’s most convivial bars are found in Puno.

Most of its inhabitants are of Andean origin & the city is the melting pot of the Aymara & Quechua culture with a unique mixture of modernity & Andean traditions. Women in traditional clothing live & work next to their modern versions. For a glimpse of its colonial & naval identity, you only have to peruse the spots of old architecture, the colorful traditional dress worn by many inhabitants & scores of young cadets in the streets.

There is not much to see here. One can visit the panoramic viewpoints of the Puma & the Condor statues. The Condor especially has a great view of the bay & the city. In recent years, a few smaller Museums have opened, like the Galindo Gallery with paintings in the Cusco School style, the Paleontological Museum, Totora Museum, Dreyer Museum close to the main Square & the Yavari Boat Museum. Then, there are several llama Farms in the city’s proximity where guests can learn about the history & agricultural llama use.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Overnight.  B 

Today, wake up early, meet the Tour-guide at dawn & embark on a half day excursion to visit the floating islands of the Uros in the Titicaca lake.

Proceed to Puno city dock & depart on a 30 minute sail in the motor boat, through thick reed beds, to reach the main Uros archipelago.

On arrival at one of the Islands, you are welcomed by the Island´s "President" who will offer a detailed explanation about the history, origin, how the islands are built & maintained.

You can "experience" the peoples’ houses (they may try to sell traditional handicrafts or souvenirs etc. Although, it is your discretion, we highly recommend that you purchase as you would be getting an original & unique item to take home & also helping the community). Explore your surroundings & take tons of photos. Learning about the history of the Uros people & present day living arrangements is a remarkable experience.

The floating Uros Islands occupy a small corner of the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca at a dizzying altitude of 3810 meters above sea level. The artificial Islands form an archipelago some 5 km from the port of Puno.

Descendants of one of the most fascinating indigenous ancient groups in the Americas with little known about their mysterious history, the unique indigenous Uru or Uros people are believed to be descended from the earliest inhabitants of Lake Titicaca, an estimated 3,700 years ago. Titicaca, which means puma stone, is according to legend the place from which emerged Viracocha, the Sun God, who in turn sent Manco Capac to found the prosperous Inca culture in Cuzco.

According to a 2011 census, Peru is home to approximately 2,000 Uros people & around 1,200 still live on the floating Islands of Lake Titicaca.

Over time, their integration with the mainland Aymara tribe, through trade & intermarriage, eventually led them to abandon their traditions & native Uru ‘Pukina’ language around 500 years ago. However, ‘some’ original & unique aspects of their original culture are still followed. They have preserved a floating lifestyle for hundreds of years.

Due to political uncertainty in the region & to protect themselves from invading groups, particularly with the arrival of the Incas, the Uros built a mobile floating city in order to evade their enemies - Tiahuanacos, Collas & Incas. If a threat emerged, they could simply move their islands elsewhere in the lake. While this worked for a while, unfortunately both the Incas & Spanish eventually discovered their islands & forced many Uros into slavery.

The Uros Islands are floating on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca, a few miles from Puno. The Islands used to be closer to the middle of the lake, but they moved or rebuilt closer to the shore following a devastating storm in 1986.

As they have for generations, the Uros subsist primarily by fishing, bird hunting & gathering bird eggs from the reed beds. They also make beautiful & colorful embroidery & totora crafts & unique vegan jewelry item that you would not find anywhere else, may be even in Puno.

These days, the Uros earn income through Tourism & this has brought a few modern conveniences to the archipelago, including improved sanitary facilities & solar panels which reduce the risk of fires from open flames. They have embraced modern technology, with most Islanders using cell phones & televisions powered by the solar panels.

The Islands are used as home & trade centers and they also have elaborately designed versions of traditional tightly bundled reed boats & crafts that are used as their means of transportation. Partially edible (tasting like non-sweet sugarcane), the reeds are also used to build other whimsical reed creations, such as Archways & even Swing sets.

Children are able to attend kindergarten & elementary school on Uros. However, older children continuing their education must head to the mainland. If you are lucky, you will catch a glimpse of a ‘school bus’…AKA a boat packed full of kids being dropped back at home. Adorable!

Islanders there continue to live in a relatively traditional fashion & some prefer not to be photographed. The residents of the Uros are known as the “water tribe”, because they must constantly replenish with new layers as the reeds rot from the bottom & the ground is always soft & springy, to create the conditions that ensure the islands stay afloat. The dense roots that the plants develop support the island. The roofs are waterproof & the houses are extremely humid because of the surrounding water. Between 5 & 7 families live on each Island. The small 1 room houses & some of the boats are made with totora, a plant that they also eat & use as medicine.

The most traditional Islands are located further from Puno through a maze of small channels, only accessible by private boat. Always a small tribe, the Uros began their unusual floating existence centuries ago in an effort to isolate themselves from the aggressive Collas & Incas.

To make an island, the Uros create a sturdy but light base tying together many layers of endemic buoyant Totora reeds that grow abundantly in the shallows of the lake. The roots (or reeds) float to the surface of the lake during the rainy season between November & March. Uros men are in charge of collecting the best roots for their Islands. If the roots have too much soil, they will sink.

Above the totora root base, many layers of totora reeds are bundled & stacked. They anchor the Islands in one place with rope & Eucalyptus stakes driven into the bottom of the lake. The Islands are anchored with ropes, stakes & stones that sink to a depth of about 3 meters. Each Island can be maintained for up to 30 years, adding new layers of reeds once a week during the rainy season & once a month during the dry season.

Created entirely with layers of the totora reeds, these islands are world famous for their peaceful beauty & the living tradition of the agrarian cultures dating back to pre-Columbian times.

After spending a couple of hours, move to the bigger Island of Taquile where you will enjoy a typical lunch with fresh fish (trout).

Post lunch, continue to Taquile Island famous for its craft production, particularly for its beautiful Textiles.

The Island of Taquile, is a place with a typical rustic experience & colorful landscaping and where they still maintain its customs, ritual, religious & folkloric traditions. The Island is narrow at about 1 km wide & 6 to 7 km long. The visit could be exhausting because of the altitude (13,000 ft above sea level). On Taquile, there are numerous pre-Inca & Inca ruins as well as Inca terracing. It’s 2 essential characteristics are its geography, offering a spectacular view from its hills & its standing as a first-rate textile center. Taquilenos live on their Textile activities. This can easily be seen in the men walking about in rubber sandals ('ojotas' in quechua), wearing black pants, white flannel shirts & beautiful, finely woven chumpis (belts), covering their heads with finely knitted warm 'chullos' (caps with ear flaps). There is also a permanent Craft Fair on the Plaza that sells exceptional wool goods which are of very fine quality and somewhat expensive.

Return to the Puno by late afternoon.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for independent discoveries (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Overnight.   B L 

Morning, Check-out from the hotel & proceed with the Tour-guide for a visit to the Sillustani Chullpas.

Sitting on rolling hills on the Lake Umayo peninsula, the funerary towers, in the pre- Incan burial ground of Sillustani stand out for miles against the desolate altiplano landscape. The scenery is desert but impressive, in a beautiful setting. The Tombs, which are built above ground in tower-like structures called Chullpas, are the vestiges of the ancient Colla people who once dominated the Lake Titicaca area, were a warlike, Aymara-speaking tribe, who who were conquered by the Incas in the 15^th century. They buried their nobility in these towers, scattered widely around the hilltops of the region.

Most of the Towers date from the period of Inca occupation at that time & the engineering involved in their construction is more complex than anything the Incas built. The tallest reaches a height of 12m & the cylindrical structures housed the remains of complete family groups, although they were probably limited to nobility, along with plenty of food & belongings for their journey into the next world. Their only opening was a small hole facing east, just large enough for a person to crawl through, which would be sealed immediately after a burial. Nowadays, nothing remains of the Burials, but the Chullpas are well preserved.

The walls of the Towers are made from massive coursed blocks reminiscent of Inca stonework, but are considered to be even more complicated. Carved but unplaced blocks & a ramp used to raise them are among the site’s points of interest, and you can also see the makeshift quarry. A few of the blocks are decorated, including a well-known carving of a lizard on one of the Chullpas closest to the parking lot.  Many of the Tombs have been dynamited by grave robbers, while others were left unfinished.

Sillustani is partially encircled by the sparkling Lago Umayo (3890 metre), which is home to a wide variety of plants & Andean water birds, plus a small island with vicunas (threatened, wild relatives of llamas) & it can be denoted as is one of the best sites in the area for birders.

The Tour ends & in time, you will be transferred to Juliaca Manco Capac Airport, for the flight to Arequipa. 

Arrive in Arequipa, the 2^nd largest city in Peru & one of the country’s hidden gem.

On exiting in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? -  Arequipa Rodríguez Ballon International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Journeys Rep who will ensure your comfort, transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Arequipa is the colonial-era capital of Peru’s Arequipa Region. Guarded by not one but 3 dramatic volcanoes, the city enjoys a resplendent, if seismically precarious setting - earthquakes regularly wrack this region, the last big one causing significant damage in 2001.

This irresistibly sexy city known as the Ciudad Blanca (White City) is surrounded by some of the wildest terrain in Peru. This is a land of active, snowy volcanoes, high-altitude deserts, thermal hot springs, salt lakes &, last but not least, the world’s deepest canyons.

Fortunately, the city’s architecture, a formidable ensemble of baroque buildings grafted out of the local white volcanic sillar rock, has so far withstood most of what mother earth has thrown at it. In 2000, the city’s central core earned a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage listing.

One of Its main attractions is the fact that it has probably the nicest weather of Peru with an average of 300 sunny days a year. The city keeps its ancient architectural treasures, but also shows a modern side with many luxurious hotels and casinos. No other place in southern Peru delivers the best of both urban & outdoor life - you can slalom down a sandy volcanic summit & still be back in your colonial Mansion guesthouse in time for a dinner of spicy arequipeno food & all-night dancing in a sizzling-hot nightclub.

Pretty cityscapes aside, Arequipa has played a fundamental role in Peru’s gastronomic renaissance & dining - in communal Picantería eateries (spicy food places) or tastebud-provoking fusion restaurants. Known for its stews & casseroles cooked over fire, Arequipenos are proud of their cuisine & also like it hot. Classic spicy dishes such as rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy red peppers), chupe de camarones (prawn chowder) & ocopa (boiled potato in a creamy, spicy sauce) all hail from here.

The regional culture of Arequipa distinguishes itself from the rest of Peru in many ways. The city is described as a cultural oasis & Arequipenos will proudly promote their city & region, often antagonizing Limenans.

And, Arequipenos are a proud people fond of intellectual debate, especially about their fervent political beliefs, which historically found voice through regular demonstrations in the Plaza de Armas, a stately main Square is flanked on its north by the 17^th century gigantic neoclassical Basilica Cathedral, which houses a Museum displaying religious objects & artwork and other baroque buildings showcasing a blend of European & native building techniques.  The headstrong city has produced one of Latin America’s most influential novelists, Mario Vargas Llosa.

Balance of the day is at leisure to explore on your own (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Overnight.   B

Morning, you will Check- out from the hotel before meeting the Tour-guide at 08.00 for am for a 4 hour sightseeing of this colonial White City.

The historical Old City center of Arequipa stands out with its white volcanic rock & blend of European & native building techniques around Plaza de Armas. More than 500 grand colonial-era houses takes visitors back to another time, to the earliest beginnings of the fusion between European & Andean traditions, as expressed in Arequipa’s vaulted roofs & arches of white stone, made from the local volcanic rock.

The area also offers a thousand culinary adventures in its famous traditional restaurants, or “Picanterías”, where stone mortars & clay pots are used to prepare the finest stuffed peppers, shrimp chowder or the unforgettable chili pepper sauce & potato dish known as “ocopa”.

Start at the St Lazarus quarter, where Arequipa was founded. Walk along the picturesque streets lined with flowers & hear about the history of the city from the Tour-guide. Make your way to the Carmen Alto viewpoint, where you will have a fabulous view of the outlying farmland & 3 volcanoes that surround the city: Misti, Cachani & Pichu Pichu.

After snapping some photos, continue your city sightseeing tour in another colonial district -Yanahuara - famous for its Andalusia-style church & buildings. The area is also known for El Mirador de Yanahuara, a popular viewpoint where you will get a great view of the city surrounded by volcanoes.

Next, visit Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a beautiful religious site, home to the nuns of the Dominican Second Order & wander down the hidden passageways which are only now open to the public after more than 400 years of cloistered religious life. The narrow alleyways, a peaceful plaza & gardens are reminiscent of ancient Seville or Granada; enjoy the serene atmosphere as you stroll through them.

Lastly, head to Arequipa’s main Square - Plaza de Armas - to see the majestic Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, with the ethereal El Misti rising behind it & which has a history dating back to the 1500s, although the physical structure has been rebuilt many times due to earthquakes & fires. It is one of the few Cathedrals in the world that have the right to hang the Vatican flag & it is a definite must see. This neo-renaissance building stands out for its size as it takes up an entire side of the city square. It also houses a Museum displaying religious objects & art.

You will then visit the Iglesia de los Jesuita (Church of the Society of Jesus), founded in the 17^th century by Jesuits & known for its Cloisters & St Ignacio Dome. Marvel at the icy Inca Mummies in the Museo Santury.

In time, you will be transferred to Arequipa Rodríguez Ballon International Airport for your flight to Lima.

On arrival at Lima - Jorge Chavez International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Journeys Rep who will ensure your comfort, transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

Balance of the day is at leisure to explore on your own (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Overnight.   B

Alas, like all good things, the wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to enchanting Peru & Peruvians & go home.

Check-out of the hotel by 11:00 am (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow usage of the facilities & to leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

Mountains & beaches to deserts & rain forests and the only capital in South America that faces the sea. Incas ruled here for over 300 years until the Spanish conquered them in 1572 & were one of the largest Empires in the world. Add to this the human-made treasures, buzzing indigenous markets, picturesque colonial towns & vibrant cityscapes. One visit to Lima filled with colonial-era riches, can never be enough. This is just the beginning & in South America there really is no end.  We are sure you will be back in Peru to discover some more.

“Travel is like knowledge. The more you see the more you know you have not seen” - Mark Hertsgaard

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal? -  Lima - Jorge Chavez International Airport for the flight back home.  B

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