12-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Peru
Peru is a land where ancient history and modern luxury converge seamlessly. This 12-day itinerary is designed for travelers who seek to immerse themselves in the heart of the Incan Empire without compromising on comfort. You will experience the coastal sophistication of Lima, the mystical energy of the Sacred Valley, and the breathtaking heights of the Andes, all while enjoying the finest accommodations and transport options available.
From the world-renowned gastronomic scene in Lima to private, expert-led tours of Machu Picchu, every detail of this route has been curated to provide an exclusive and stress-free experience. Travel by first-class rail, stay in converted monasteries, and dine at the world's top-ranked restaurants on this definitive Peruvian luxury escape.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Lima, Peru - Coastal Arrival
Arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport
Touch down in Lima and meet your private chauffeur for a comfortable transfer to the upscale district of Miraflores.
Check-in at Belmond Miraflores Park
Relax at one of Lima's most exclusive hotels, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and enjoy a signature Pisco Sour on the terrace.
Sunset Walk at El Malecón
Stroll along the cliffside boardwalk, visiting the Love Park (Parque del Amor) for stunning views of the coast.
Dinner at Central
Experience the flagship restaurant of Virgilio Martínez, consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, featuring an altitude-based tasting menu.
Day 2: Lima, Peru - Artistic & Historical Exploration
Larco Museum Private Tour
Explore an incredible collection of pre-Columbian art housed in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion surrounded by lush gardens.
Lunch at Museo Larco Café
Dine in the museum's garden restaurant, known for its traditional Peruvian flavors and elegant atmosphere.
Bohemian Barranco District
Walk through the colorful streets of Barranco, visiting art galleries and crossing the iconic Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros).
Dinner at Astrid & Gastón
Savor innovative Peruvian cuisine in a beautifully restored colonial palace in the heart of San Isidro.
Day 3: Sacred Valley, Peru - Into the Heart of the Andes
Flight to Cusco
Take a short domestic flight to the high-altitude city of Cusco, where your private guide will meet you for the drive to the lower altitude of the Sacred Valley.
Pisac Market & Ruins
Visit the vibrant artisan market in Pisac before heading up to the ancient hilltop ruins for a private guided walk.
Check-in at Belmond Rio Sagrado
Settle into your riverside villa in Urubamba, designed to resemble a rustic Andean village with modern luxury amenities.
Andean Spa Treatment
Unwind with a traditional cocoa leaf wrap or an Inca-inspired massage at the hotel's luxury spa.
Day 4: Sacred Valley, Peru - Ancient Traditions
Maras Salt Mines
Witness thousands of ancient salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Incan times, creating a stunning white patchwork on the hillside.
Moray Agricultural Terraces
Explore the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, which were likely used by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory.
Luxury Andean Picnic
Enjoy a private, gourmet picnic set against the backdrop of the Andes, featuring local cheeses, quinoa salads, and fine wines.
Paso Horse Demonstration
Watch a private demonstration of the elegant Peruvian Paso horse, known for its unique four-beat lateral gait.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes, Peru - The Road to Machu Picchu
Ollantaytambo Fortress
Tour the massive Incan fortress and the well-preserved living village of Ollantaytambo before heading to the station.
Belmond Hiram Bingham Train
Board the legendary 1920s-style Pullman carriages for a luxury rail journey to Machu Picchu, featuring a gourmet lunch and live music.
Check-in at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo
Relax in your luxury casita set within 12 acres of cloud forest gardens, home to over 200 bird species.
Dinner at the Tree House
Enjoy a fusion of Andean and international flavors in an intimate setting tucked away in the forest.
Day 6: Machu Picchu, Peru - The Lost City
Early Morning Citadel Tour
Beat the crowds with a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu. Your private historian will guide you through the temples, terraces, and residential quarters.
Huayna Picchu Hike
For the adventurous, climb the steep Huayna Picchu peak for a bird's-eye view of the entire archaeological site.
Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge
Dine at the only hotel located right at the gates of the citadel, offering unparalleled convenience and luxury.
Tea Time at Inkaterra
Return to the pueblo for a relaxing afternoon tea session featuring local herbs and organic treats.
Day 7: Cusco, Peru - Imperial Grandeur
Morning at Leisure
Enjoy the gardens of your hotel or visit the local orchid sanctuary before heading back to the rail station.
Luxury Return Train to Cusco
Enjoy tea and cocktails as you wind through the Urubamba valley back toward the historic capital of the Inca Empire.
San Blas Neighborhood
Explore the artisan quarter of San Blas, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed walls, and blue doors.
Dinner at Cicciolina
A local favorite, this upscale tapas bar and restaurant offers sophisticated Andean-Mediterranean fusion in a warm, colonial setting.
Day 8: Cusco, Peru - Capital of the Sun
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Visit the most important temple in the Incan Empire, which once had walls covered in solid gold and now serves as the foundation for a Dominican convent.
Sacsayhuamán Fortress
Marvel at the massive stones of this military complex, some weighing over 100 tons, expertly fitted together without mortar.
Lunch at Map Café
Located in the courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, this glass-walled restaurant offers a refined dining experience.
Check-in at Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel
Stay in a stunning 16th-century monastery where oxygen-enriched rooms help you adjust to the high altitude in total luxury.
Day 9: Arequipa, Peru - The White City
Fly to Arequipa
A short morning flight takes you to the southern city of Arequipa, famous for its buildings made of white volcanic sillar stone.
Santa Catalina Monastery
Walk through this "city within a city," a beautifully preserved 16th-century convent with vibrant blue and red walls.
Traditional Picantería Lunch
Sample authentic Arequipeñan cuisine like Rocoto Relleno (stuffed peppers) at a high-end local eatery.
Plaza de Armas
Relax in the main square, admiring the twin-towered cathedral and the surrounding colonial arches.
Day 10: Colca Canyon, Peru - Volcanic Vistas
Drive to Colca Valley
Depart Arequipa for a private scenic drive through the Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve, spotting vicuñas and flamingos along the way.
Lunch in Chivay
Enjoy a buffet of local Andean specialties before continuing deep into the canyon.
Check-in at Belmond Las Casitas
Retreat to your private casita featuring a personal plunge pool and outdoor shower overlooking the canyon walls.
Stargazing in the Canyon
With virtually no light pollution, the Andean sky offers an incredible display of the Southern Cross and the Milky Way.
Day 11: Colca Canyon, Peru - Flight of the Condors
Condor's Cross (Cruz del Condor)
Experience the majestic Andean condors soaring on thermal currents above the world's deepest canyon.
Village Tours (Yanque & Maca)
Visit the colonial churches and local markets of the canyon villages, learning about Collagua and Cabana cultures.
Luxury Spa & Hot Springs
Soak in the natural thermal baths of the region, known for their healing mineral properties.
Return Drive to Arequipa
Enjoy a comfortable private transfer back to the city for your final night in the White City.
Day 12: Arequipa, Peru - Final Farewells
San Lazaro District
Take a morning walk through Arequipa's oldest neighborhood, characterized by its narrow alleys and volcanic stone homes.
Farewell Lunch at Chicha
Dine at Gastón Acurio's Arequipa outpost, celebrating the rich regional culinary heritage of southern Peru.
Flight to Lima
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the capital to catch your international connection.
Evening Departure
Head to the airport lounge to relax before your flight home, reflecting on your luxury Andean odyssey.
Best Time to Visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This period offers the clearest skies and most stable weather for visiting Machu Picchu and the Andes. June, July, and August are the peak months with the best visibility, though they are also the busiest. If you prefer fewer crowds while still enjoying good weather, the shoulder months of April and October are excellent choices. The coastal region, including Lima, is best visited during the Peruvian summer from December to March when it is sunny and warm.
Currency & Money
The official currency of Peru is the Sol (PEN). While luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and large shops in cities like Lima and Cusco accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are most common), it is essential to carry some cash in Soles for smaller purchases and markets. Tipping is customary in Peru; in high-end restaurants, a 10% tip is standard, often added as a service charge, but an additional 5% for exceptional service is appreciated. For private guides and drivers, a tip of $10-$20 USD per day is a generous gesture.
Getting Around Peru
For a luxury itinerary, the best way to travel between major cities is via domestic flights; LATAM and Sky Airline offer frequent and reliable services. For the journey from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, the Belmond Hiram Bingham or Inca Rail's First Class service provides an opulent and scenic experience. Within cities, private chauffeured transfers are the safest and most comfortable option, easily arranged through your hotels. For regional exploration, such as the drive to Colca Canyon, hiring a private driver and guide ensures flexibility and comfort on the Andean roads.
