Peru

Culture, Color, and Adventure

Peru brings together wild landscapes, deep history, and colorful culture in a way that few countries can. From the Pacific coast to the height of the Andes and the heart of the Amazon, the landscape and cultures are drastically variable and equally fascinating. One moment you’re walking the stone streets of Cusco, the next you’re sailing to floating islands on Lake Titicaca or spotting macaws in the rainforest canopy. Whether you’re climbing toward Machu Picchu at sunrise or savoring ceviche in a sleek Lima restaurant, you’re never far from something ancient and unforgettable. Peru is layered, vibrant, and always full of adventure.

Map of Peru Highlights

1. Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas

2. Cusco & The Sacred Valley

3. Inca Trail

4. Lima: City of Kings

5. Lake Titicaca

6. The Amazon Rainforest

7.Colca Canyon

1. Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas

Hidden for centuries in the cloud forest, Machu Picchu still feels mysterious. Perched at 8,000 feet, it’s one of the world’s best-preserved Incan sites. The views are stunning, the stonework is impressive, and exploring with a knowledgeable guide brings it to life.
2. Cusco & The Sacred Valley

Cusco is where it all begins with vivid markets, Incan ruins, cobblestone streets, and strong coffee to fuel your explorations. Just outside the city, the Sacred Valley opens up with terraced hillsides, Andean villages, and impressive Incan fortresses. For those with an inkling for an active adventure, biking, rafting, paddleboarding, climbing (and much more!) highlight the beautiful landscapes of this valley.
3. Inca Trail

This is the classic way to reach Machu Picchu. Over four days, the trail winds through cloud forests, mountain passes, and ancient ruins. It’s challenging, but arriving at the Sun Gate at sunrise makes it all worth it. Alternate routes, which are much less traveled, are possible for those who want an off-the-beaten path experience.
4. Lima: City of Kings

Lima is Peru’s coastal capital, where colonial architecture meets cutting-edge cuisine. Tour the historic center, visit world-class museums, then head to Barranco or Miraflores for ocean views and seafood with a view. It’s fast-paced but full of art, history, and culture.
5. Lake Titicaca

High in the Andes, this deep blue lake straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia, dotted with islands where traditional life still thrives. Visit the Uros people living on floating reed islands, or hike on Amantani and Taquile, where ancient customs remain part of daily life. Known as the birthplace of the Incas, this region offers history, beauty, and high-altitude tranquility.
6. The Amazon Rainforest

Peru’s slice of the Amazon is teeming with life with howler monkeys, giant river otters, pink dolphins, and more bird species than you’ll believe. Spend a few nights aboard a small river boat, with guided hikes and boat rides woven in, or stay at a remote jungle lodge for an immersive and unforgettable jungle experience.
7. Colca Canyon

Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon is all about scale with massive landscapes, thermal springs, and condors cruising the cliffs. Villages here are still deeply rooted in tradition, and hikes through the canyon offer both quiet beauty and cultural connection. Seeing a critically endangered Andean Condor soar above you is a sight not-to-be forgotten.

A Few of Our Favorite Experiences

Hike the Andes

Stretch your legs, open your lungs, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Ades.
Cruise the Amazon

Slow down and soak in the biodiversity from a luxury riverboat or stay ashore and explore the jungle on foot or by canoe.
Feast of Colors

Markets in Cusco, Pisac, and beyond are bursting with bright textiles, spices, and handmade goods.
Ride the Rails

Experience the luxurious Andean Explorer, a luxurious train experience through the high Andes, from Cusco to Arequipa.
Step into an Incan Empire

From Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo, Pisac to Sacsayhuaman, the archeological wonders built at the height of the Inca Empire are awe-inspiring.

“The itinerary was perfectly designed by EXPLORE (from start to end). Not one hiccup. I’ve been ruined for future trips.”
Kevin G.
“The trip was truly amazing. One of the many highlights was our visit to Machu Picchu. Dennis, our guide went way above and beyond by getting us on the train as a boulder had knocked an engine off the track early in the morning of our departure. Dennis not only had an excellent grasp of knowledge of each of our destinations but was very good at conveying that knowledge to us. He was also a good coach, gently pushing us through some of our more difficult climbs. I don't think we could have had a better guide. We also very much enjoyed our tours in Lima & Cusco. The tour of the center of Cusco, the market and the churches were very interesting and provided a lot of insight into the intersection of the Inca civilization and Spain's incursion into Peru. The Lima tour was equally as interesting and was a good contrast of an international city to the high Andes.”
Denny E.
“EXPLORE has arranged several trips for my husband and myself. They have been so helpful and flexible with the planning. Understanding when we have had to unexpectedly make travel changes. They have planned trips for us to Tanzania, Rwanda , the Amazon, Sacred Valley and Panama (to name a few!). Everything went so smoothly. All of the guides were knowledgeable and interesting. The accommodations were exceptional. You will be overwhelmed by anything they plan for you!”
Shari S.