Peru ~ 12 Days V1.

Depart on an early evening flight to Lima

Morning

Arrive early morning in Lima transfer to our hotel for a recharge, bag drop off and breakfast. After breakfast we will head out for a city tour, where we will discover Lima’s historical city center, visiting the Main Square, Government Palace, and the Basilica Cathedral.

Afternoon

After lunch we will continue exploring the city with a visit to the Huaca Pucllana Pyramid: We will tour and explore this ancient archaeological site nestled in the heart of the city before having some free time to explore as a group.

Evening

Tonight we will have a culinary dining  Experience where we will eat at a local  restaurant, sampling iconic Peruvian dishes like ceviche  and other tasty local food.

Morning / Afternoon

Early morning flight to Cusco. After our arrival we will check in to our hotel before heading out for a city tour.

Our city tour will include Plaza de Armas,  Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and other hidden little gems.

Evening

For the rest of the late afternoon and evening we wil hang out  acclimating to the altitude and enjoying free time to settle in.

Morning/Afternoon

This morning we will visit the Chinchero Ruins, an ancient Inca site known for its impressive stone terraces and ancient history. After exploring the ruins we will  immerse ourselves in an interactive weaving demonstration and workshop with local artisans, where we will witness the traditional techniques passed down through generations. This isn’t just a demonstration—it’s an intimate opportunity to connect with the Chinchero community. We will  hear personal stories, learn about their cultural heritage, and gain insight into how they sustain their way of life through craftsmanship. We partner directly with local families and artisans to ensure an authentic and respectful exchange, giving us a meaningful experience rooted in genuine connection.

Explore the **Moray agricultural terraces**, a striking Inca site where massive circular depressions are believed to have served as an ancient agricultural laboratory. These terraces, with their varying microclimates, allowed the Incas to experiment with crops at different altitudes, showcasing their advanced understanding of farming. Afterward, visit the nearby **Maras salt mines**, an intricate network of salt pans that have been used for salt extraction since pre-Inca times. The brilliant white salt ponds against the surrounding mountains create an unforgettable landscape.

Today lunch will be had with a local family, where we will dive into traditional Andean cuisine. This meal offers not just authentic flavors but also a personal connection to the community. We will enjoy regional dishes like pachamanca (meat and vegetables cooked underground), chuño (freeze-dried potatoes), and quinoa soup, all while hearing stories about Andean traditions, daily life, and the history of the region. This  experience will allows us to connect with the locals and their heritage.

Today we will start our day with a once-in-a-lifetime experience: we will watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As the first light of dawn breaks over the towering Andean peaks, the ancient citadel emerges from the mist, casting an ethereal glow over the ruins. This peaceful, early-morning moment allows you to experience the beauty and serenity of Machu Picchu before the crowds arrive, offering a sense of connection to the ancient Inca civilization that once thrived here.

After  we enjoy sunrise we will have additional time to explore the site at your own pace. We will wander through the stone terraces, temples, and plazas, visiting iconic spots like the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows. We wil take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, or hike to the Sun Gate for panoramic vistas.

In the afternoon, we will board the train back to Cusco, where we can reflect on the day’s adventure while traveling through the scenic landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Upon arriving in Cusco, we will unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Morning/Afternoon

Today we will start our day with the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by towering mountains and rich Inca history. We will explore the vibrant Pisac Market, where we can shop for handmade crafts, from colorful textiles to traditional jewelry, while supporting local artisans.

In the afternoon, we will participate in a community service project (details T.B.D)  Whether we are teaching English or working on local initiatives, this is a chance to connect with the local community and contribute to meaningful, sustainable efforts. This hands-on experience provides a deeper understanding of Andean life and leaves a lasting impact on both you and the community.

Morning/Afternoon/Evening

Continue working on community project, (details t.b.d). We will end the day with a memorable traditional dance performance, cultural exchange and final community dinner with our friends.

Morning

Free supervised group time in Cusco

Afternoon

Flight back to Lima, check in to hotel

Evening

Tonight we will be participating in a cooking class with a local chef

Morning

We will start this morning with a  walking tour of Barranco. We will explore everything from pre-Inca history to vibrant modern street art. Highlights will  include the Jade Rivera World (showcasing art with people and exotic birds), the picturesque Bajada de los Baños, El Gato Tulipan art gallery, the iconic Bridge of Sighs, Ermita Church, Chabuca Granda Square, Malecón de los Ingleses, Dédalo, and more.

Afternoon

After lunch in Barranco we will head to Playa El Silencio, for some fun in the sun.

Evening

Group dinner and rest

Morning/Afternoon

Mid-morning, we will embark on a culinary tour of Lima, where we will dive with our hungry belly’s into the city’s rich gastronomic scene. We’ll start by visiting some of Lima’s iconic markets, like the Surquillo Market, where we’ll sample fresh local produce, Andean superfoods, and artisanal cheeses. From there, we’ll head to the bustling Mercado de San Isidro, known for its colourful stalls of seafood, fruits, and spices.

Along the way, we’ll stop at local food vendors to try authentic street food favorites such as anticuchos (grilled skewers of beef heart) and picarones (sweet Peruvian doughnuts). We’ll also savor classic dishes like ceviche at a hidden seafood spot, and finish the tour with a taste of lucuma ice cream, made from the unique Peruvian fruit.

In the late afternoon we will have some supervised free time for souvernir shopping and exploration.

Return home