10-Day Exploring Southern Peru with Belmond, Hiram Bingham & Andean Explorer Trains

Embark on an exclusive and captivating exploration of Lima’s Historical Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in architectural treasures and cultural heritage. Our journey begins at the Convent of Santo Domingo, one of Lima’s oldest landmarks, built during the city’s foundation. This historical site also served as home to the Universidad Mayor de San Marcos, the oldest university in the Americas. Inside, we’ll admire the country’s oldest choir stalls and a library housing 25,000 invaluable books, some dating back to the 15th century. This is also the resting place of Lima’s revered saints, including San Martín de Porres, San Juan Masías, and Santa Rosa de Lima.

We will then cross the iconic Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the Government Palace, the Municipality, and the Cathedral of Lima. Inside the Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial architecture, you’ll find religious artworks and the crypt of conquistador Francisco Pizarro, a glimpse into the city’s layered history.

From here, we leave the colonial grandeur of downtown Lima behind and head to the renowned Larco Museum. Here, we’ll journey through Peru’s ancient cultures, marveling at gold artifacts, intricate textiles, and a fascinating collection of pre-Columbian erotic ceramics that reveal the rich cosmovision of ancient Peruvians. The museum’s unique warehouse offers an exclusive look at thousands of ceramic pieces, a rare glimpse into everyday life in ancient Peru. The afternoon will be free for you to enjoy at your leisure.

Transfer to the airport. Departure to Cusco. Upon arrival, assistance and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, ascent to the Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park, and start of the journey visiting the fortress of the same name, a beautiful place that radiates peace and tranquility, we will also admire the huge rocks of up to 4 meters high, that were used in its construction. Continue to Q'enqo, antique temple of the Cougar where we can appreciate an altar for sacrifices in the inner part of a huge rock and then to Tambomachay, sacred fountains of life and health. 

On the way, enjoy a panoramic view of Puca Pucará, a watchtower that guarded the entrance to the city. Later, tour of the Temple of the Sun Qorikancha, over which the Santo Domingo Convent was built, the legend says that this Temple was completely gold plated, which amazed the conquerors when they first arrived. To end our journey, become familiar with the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) and enter the Cathedral, which amasses invaluable colonial art works and paintings, as for example the Cross that arrived with the first conquerors.

On this day, we will journey deep into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, discovering some of its most remarkable and culturally significant sites. Our first stop is Chinchero, a village renowned for its timeless charm and vibrant textile traditions. Here, we’ll meet the master weavers and gain insights into the ancient Inca techniques of dyeing and spinning alpaca wool, a craft passed down through generations. We’ll also visit the village's historic Inca square, home to a beautifully preserved colonial church that reflects the fusion of Inca and Spanish influences.

Next, we continue to Moray, an awe-inspiring archaeological site featuring a series of concentric terraces. These terraces were ingeniously designed by the Incas as an agricultural laboratory to simulate different microclimates, helping to cultivate crops that would thrive in diverse environments. After marveling at Moray’s ingenuity, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch, savoring the region's traditional flavors.

In the afternoon, we visit the last living Inca village, Ollantaytambo. This village is steeped in history and still maintains its original Inca urban planning. As we explore its ancient ruins, we’ll stand before the majestic Temple of the Ten Windows, the Ñusta’s Baths, and the impressive Temple of the Sun. From the heights of Ollantaytambo, breathtaking views of the surrounding valley will provide the perfect close to this unforgettable day in the Sacred Valley. We will then settle into our accommodation in the area, reflecting on the day’s discoveries amidst the beauty of the Andes.

For those seeking adventure, we offer exciting treks and unforgettable excursions, whether on horseback, mountain bikes, or thrilling ATV rides—tailored to your preferences for an unforgettable experience!

Your day begins at the heart of the Sacred Valley, the station in Urubamba. Here, you’ll embark on a truly remarkable journey aboard the legendary Hiram Bingham luxury train, one of the most exclusive travel experiences in the world. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the elegance of its vintage, 1920s-inspired carriages. Plush interiors, gleaming wood panels, and large windows frame the surrounding Andean landscape. A sense of anticipation builds as you settle into the first-class atmosphere, where every detail has been carefully curated to evoke a sense of timeless travel.

The dining car is a highlight, designed to blend the sophistication of yesteryear with modern comfort. As the train chugs along, you’ll be served a series of finely crafted dishes—each plate a reflection of Peru’s rich culinary heritage. Imagine tasting a delicate ceviche of river trout or a velvety quinoa risotto, all while the scenic beauty outside seems to flow past like a vivid dream.

The route follows the winding course of the Urubamba River, cutting deeper into the towering canyon. As the train glides forward, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic: steep cliffs covered in lush, verdant foliage, narrow valleys carved by ancient forces, and glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks. The sheer scale of nature surrounding you is awe-inspiring, yet the ride remains serene and intimate, a perfect contrast to the raw power of the landscape.

Finally, you’ll reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway village to Machu Picchu. From here, minibuses will take you on a winding ascent to the Sacred Citadel itself, climbing higher into the mist-shrouded mountains. As you approach, the ancient stones of Machu Picchu begin to appear, like something from a dream. Upon arrival, you’ll immediately feel the pulse of history and the deep spiritual energy that envelops this revered Inca site.

With an expert guide at your side, you’ll explore the intricacies of the Citadel. Walk along its carefully constructed terraces, touch the cool, time-worn stones, and marvel at the sophisticated engineering of this once-great city. You’ll stand before the Intihuatana, the mystical solar clock, still imbued with the reverence of centuries past. From the Temple of the Sun to the Room of the Three Windows, each space tells the story of an ancient civilization in perfect harmony with the natural world.

After this profound experience, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved break at the Sanctuary Lodge, sipping tea while overlooking the breathtaking landscape, letting the day's adventures sink in. But the journey doesn’t end here. As you descend back to Aguas Calientes, the Hiram Bingham train awaits to whisk you back to Cusco in style. Onboard, you’ll be treated to live entertainment and a sophisticated gourmet dinner, the perfect way to unwind after a day spent at one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

Arriving in Cusco, your day ends with a smooth transfer to your hotel, where the warmth of local hospitality and the memories of Machu Picchu will lull you into a peaceful night’s rest. Lodging in Cusco ensures your comfort after an extraordinary day.

Your first day aboard the Andean Explorer Train sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. From the moment you step on board, you are embraced by an atmosphere of luxury and comfort as the train glides through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. Departing from Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, you'll journey into the heart of Peru's highlands, surrounded by the rich history and vibrant culture of this remarkable country. 

Panoramic windows unveil stunning views of verdant valleys and towering mountains, making this first day an enchanting introduction to the wonders that lie ahead. As night falls, you'll rest comfortably on board in Puno, with a delightful lunch and dinner included to enhance the experience.

On the second day, the adventure unfolds with a journey toward the breathtaking Lake Titicaca, highlighted by a visit to the captivating island of Taquile. Upon arrival, visitors are warmly greeted by the island’s inhabitants, a proud Quechua-speaking community that has preserved its ancient traditions and way of life for centuries. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Taquile before returning to the train for the next leg of the journey to Lagunillas. 

As the train continues its route, passengers are treated to the awe-inspiring transition of landscapes—from towering mountains to peaceful valleys. With first-class services and panoramic windows showcasing the beauty of the Andes, the second day promises a wealth of discoveries and unforgettable moments. Enjoy another restful night aboard the train, stationed at a high Andean point under a starlit sky.

On the third day aboard the Andean Explorer Train, the journey reaches its peak as you traverse the high Andean páramos and the shimmering lagoons of the wildlife reserve near the majestic Colca River Valley. Passengers are treated to a unique cultural experience, with a visit to ancient rock art sites and an exploration of the pristine landscapes surrounding the reserve. 

This final leg of the trip beautifully blends the elegance of the train with an enriching immersion into Peru's natural and cultural treasures. The day concludes with unforgettable memories, and you'll spend the night in luxury at Belmond Casitas del Colca, nestled on the edge of the stunning Colca Canyon.

At dawn, we will journey to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where we’ll eagerly await the awe-inspiring sight of majestic condors in flight—these enormous Andean birds are emblematic of the Andean nations. From this vantage point, the sheer vastness of the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, unfolds before our eyes. 

We will also explore the traditional villages of Maca and Yanque, where colonial churches still stand as a testament to their rich history. Following this, we will depart by land for the city of Arequipa. Once there, we'll embark on a city tour, visiting the charming colonial district of Yanahuara, the Santa Catalina Monastery, and the historic Church of the Society of Jesus. Overnight stay in Arequipa completes this day filled with breathtaking natural beauty and cultural exploration.

Transfer to the aiport to take your flight to Lima