From Machu Picchu by the Hiram Bingham Train to an Amazon River Cruise: The best of Peru in culture, food, scenery and unforgettable moments

Experience the very best of Peru on this carefully curated journey, from Machu Picchu aboard the iconic Hiram Bingham Train to an immersive Amazon River cruise. Explore Lima’s world-class cuisine, the Sacred Valley and Cusco’s rich Inca heritage, breathtaking Andean landscapes, and the heart of the Amazon rainforest. 

A seamless blend of culture, gastronomy, scenery, and unforgettable experiences designed for travelers seeking comfort, authenticity, and exceptional moments.

  • Day 1: Arrival to Lima and Free day

  • Day 2: Lima Highlights & Culinary Experience

  • Day 3: Sacred Valley Arrival & Exclusive Andean Experience

  • Day 4: Hiram Bingham Train & Machu Picchu

  • Day 5: Private Sacred Valley tour

  • Day 6: Private Cusco Classic City Tour

  • Day 7: Private Palcoyo Trek

  • Day 8: From Cusco to Iquitos and Free day

  • Day 9-13: Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – 5 Days 

    • Day 1: Iquitos → Amazon River

    • Day 2: River of Life → Flora, Fauna & Ancient Waters

    • Day 3: Amazon Lagoons & Pink Dolphin Encounters

    • Day 4: Myths, Rituals & Riverways

    • Day 5: A Farewell to the Amazon and Peru

Tour Itinerary
Day 01

Arrival to Lima and Free day


 

Upon your arrival at Lima Airport, a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel located in Miraflores/San Isidro/Barranco.

*An English-Spanish-speaking guide is included upon arrival in Lima.

Spend the night at Hotel B (Alcoba room).

Day 02

Lima Highlights & Culinary Experience


 

Urban Kitchen Experience

At the set time, be transferred to the installation of Urban Kitchen, this is a space where people come to learn how to easily cook in a social and friendly environment the different dishes of Peruvian and international cuisine. After cooking, they’ll sit at the table and eat what they’ve cooked. At that point, the experience of a class will mix with a restaurant experience.

We’ll make special emphasis on the history of Peruvian cuisine, especially the influence of other cuisines and how we got to be one of the most important in the world at this time. We’ll talk about historical, social and cultural issues that’ll make the experience not only focused on the kitchen, but also in Peruvian culture.

The package we offer consists of the following:

  • Welcome tourists in our local.
  • Cooking class in English or Spanish where they’ll learn how to cook:
  • Traditional cebiche.
  • Lomo saltado.
  • Peruvian fruit tasting
  • The aprons as a gift.
  • The recipes of the dishes, in English or Spanish.
  • Two drinks per person.
  • Culinary souvenir.

*Children over four years old can participate.

*This tour can start between 10 am and 6 pm.

Private Cultural Discovery Tour of Lima & Visit to the Larco Museum

After breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Lima, where you will explore the main highlights of the historic colonial center. Admire the magnificent architecture, learn about the city’s rich and complex history, and experience the unique atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed area.

The tour then continues through the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

You will then visit the renowned Larco Museum, one of the most important museums in the country. During a guided visit, you will discover more than 3,000 years of pre-Columbian art and history, displayed in beautifully designed, chronologically arranged galleries. Highlights include the exquisite gold and silver collections of ancient Peru, as well as the famous gallery of ancient erotic art. Overall, the museum houses more than 40,000 archaeological artifacts.

Tour duration: approx. 4.5 hours

Spend the night at Hotel B (Alcoba room).

Day 03

Sacred Valley Arrival & Exclusive Andean Experience


 

Flight & transfer to The Sacred Valley: Private tour & Hacienda

Early in the morning, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight to Cusco.

Upon arrival, continue your journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The average elevation here is 2,870 m.a.s.l. (9,416 ft), which is lower than Cusco (3,352 m.a.s.l. / 11,000 ft). The Sacred Valley is known for its stunning Andean landscapes, lush nature, picturesque villages, and remarkable archaeological sites dating back to the Inca civilization.

Your first stop will be at a Llama Sanctuary, where you can observe llamas and alpacas and enjoy a traditional weaving demonstration. Afterwards, make a brief stop at a strategic viewpoint to capture breathtaking photos of the Sacred Valley.

Then, enjoy a delicious lunch at a beautiful Hacienda (shared service) located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, surrounded by spectacular scenery and well-kept grounds. Continue to Pisac, one of the most important archaeological complexes in the region. Here, you'll explore ancient Inca burial sites, irrigation systems, and areas believed to have served as astronomical centers.

Finally, you will be transferred to your hotel.

*Lunch at the Hacienda is not available on Sundays (Open hours: 12:00 to 15:00 hrs.).

Spend the night at Tambo del Inka a Luxury Collection hotel.

Included: Breakfast

Day 04

Hiram Bingham Train & Machu Picchu


 

Have you ever dreamed of traveling through the Peruvian Andes on a train modeled on the Pullman cars of the 1920s? The Hiram Bingham train not only makes this possible, it turns a magical journey into an unforgettable experience, with personalized service that takes care of every last detail on your trip.

Travel on the exclusive and luxurious Hiram Bingham train and enjoy the elegant dining car, the bar car, and the observatory, where you can take in the unmatched scenery in the open air while sipping on a traditional Peruvian cocktail and listening to live local music.

Travel plan:

  • Transfer to the Belmond train station in the Sacred Valley.
Welcome Show with Traditional Regional Dances

Enjoy a welcome show with traditional dances of the region at Ollantaytambo Station. Immerse yourself in the rich local culture from the first moment, delighting in colourful and vibrant traditional dances while savouring a welcome cocktail.

Journey Commencement

Embark on your journey with the train departure, traversing unique and dazzling landscapes that will accompany you throughout the day.

Gourmet Lunch on Board

Delight in a gourmet lunch on board. Savour exquisite dishes prepared with the freshest and most representative ingredients of Peruvian cuisine in our luxurious Dining Car.

Signature Toast: Enjoy the finest Peruvian cocktails in the Bar Car, prepared by expert mixologists who blend tradition and creativity in every sip.

Panoramic Views

Relax in the Observation Car, enjoying the changing landscapes of the route from the comfort of this exclusive open-air balcony, designed to appreciate every detail of the surroundings.

Live Music Show: Immerse yourself in vibrant Peruvian music with a live show, enjoying a unique afternoon in the company of talented local artists.

Bus to Machu Picchu Citadel

Arrival at Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) and transfer by private bus to the Wonder of the World, appreciating the valleys, the river, and the endless greenery as the perfect prelude to the arrival at the Machu Picchu Citadel.

Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket

Upon arrival at the Machu Picchu citadel, you won’t have to worry about anything. Your entry ticket is included, and our team will guide you to present it at the park entrance, ensuring a hassle-free entry to your tour.

Bilingual Tour Guide (Spanish and English) 

Enjoy a professional and bilingual guided tour of 2 hours of Machu Picchu, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the secrets and history of this archaeological wonder in a personalised experience.

Cocktail in the Mountains at Sanctuary Lodge Hotel

Celebrate the adventure with a cocktail in the mountains at Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel. Toast in an exclusive and privileged setting, enjoying a unique moment at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Bus Down to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)

After exploring the wonder of Machu Picchu, take the comfortable and exclusive bus down to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). Relax and enjoy the journey as you descend through the impressive mountains.

VIP Waiting Room at Machu Picchu Station

After arriving at Machu Picchu Pueblo, you can enjoy the exclusive VIP waiting room at Machu Picchu Station for Hiram Bingham passengers. Here, you can rest in comfortable seats and receive personalised attention before boarding the train back to the Sacred Valley.

Journey Commencement: Embark on a night journey on the Hiram Bingham, prepare for a unique experience, enjoy the intimate and relaxed atmosphere of the train. Rest in our comfortable and sophisticated seats and let the gentle sway of the train carry you through the Andes.

Gourmet Dinner on Board

Enjoy an exquisite gourmet dinner on board the luxury train while heading towards Ollantaytambo. Our chefs will prepare a selection of Peruvian dishes accompanied by a first-class wine, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience.

Live Music Show

Experience the joy of live music during your journey on the Hiram Bingham. Our band will play traditional Peruvian melodies and other rhythms, creating a festive and memorable atmosphere.

Bar Car with the Best Peruvian Cocktails: Visit the Bar Car and savour the best Peruvian cocktails. From a classic Pisco Sour to innovative blends with local ingredients, our bartenders are ready to surprise you.

Upon your arrival to the train station, be transferred back to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Spend the night at Tambo del Inka a Luxury Collection hotel.

Included: dinner (no drinks), lunch (no drink), Breakfast

Day 05

Private Sacred Valley tour


 

Private Sacred Valley tour: Chinchero, Maras, Moray & Unu Restaurant

Today you will experience a guided excursion throughout the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

First, you will visit the ruins of the Andean village of Chinchero, located high up on the windswept plains of Anta (12,342.52 feet). You will find yourself surrounded by gorgeous views overlooking the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped peak of Salkantay dominating the western horizon. This excursion combines Incan ruins with a typical Andean village, a colonial church, some wonderful mountain views, and a colorful traditional market.

En route, you will visit Salineras, the ancient salt mines, nearby the town of Maras, and you will witness one of the best sites in the valley: the huge circular agricultural terraces at Moray, built by the Incas in natural sinkholes. They sit on a limestone plateau overlooking the Urubamba Valley.

Then continue to Unu, a remote restaurant that offers unique views of the snowcapped mountains of the Sacred Valley and enjoy a delicious lunch.

After the tour we will drop you at your hotel in Cusco, where you can spend a tranquil evening.

Spend the night at Aranwa Cusco hotel.

Included: lunch (no drink), dinner, lunch, breakfast buffet

Day 06

Private Cusco Classic City Tour


 

Private Cusco Classic City Tour

Today's tour will begin strolling through the Plaza de Armas, where you will be able to explore the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away, you will explore one of Cusco’s most impressive buildings, Qoricancha or The Temple of the Sun, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. 

From here, continue your tour visiting the Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, one of the most important military and ceremonial centers in Incan times, then we will visit three other important archeological sites: Qenko, Tambomachay, and Puka Pukara.

* The Qoricancha is closed to the public on Sundays mornings.

* Only the afternoon shift is available.

* The entrance to the Cathedral is forbidden in Corpus Christi, and on Thursday and Friday during the holy week celebration.

* Not available during the Inti Raymi (June 24th)

Free time in Cusco

Cusco is filled with activities and you can take your pick today based on your energy level and interests. There are churches, museums, and art galleries to visit, along with adventure activities like rafting and horseback riding. Wander around and enjoy mountain views, cafes, and appreciate the architecture that characterizes the historic centre of Cusco.

Spend the night at Aranwa Cusco hotel.

Included: breakfast buffet

Day 07

Private Palcoyo Trek


 

The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain is only about 20 km from his famous sister "Vinicunca". While Vinicunca attracts thousands of visitors, Its smaller sister Palcoyo (4,900m/~16,000ft) with still no over-tourism, and is still one real insider tip. This mini trek is perfect for travelers who want to view the Colorful Rainbow Mountains in a relatively shorter and more gentle trek and a great option for those traveling with kids.

We pick you up early in the morning from your hotel. (On route, we´ll make a stop for breakfast).

The drive will be along the "Red River", we`ll make a stop for some minutes so you appreciate the Red River and the awesome pictures!

In about 3.5 hours drive, arrive at the starting point of the short hike. From here, it is a hike of approximately 50 Minutes via a short, relatively flat path. We have the prospect of seeing llamas, sheep, vicuñas, and alpacas. The summit lies on about 5000 meters above sea level. Once there, have time to enjoy the panorama and take pictures.

At this point, it is time to hike downhill. Finally, embark on the 3.5-hour drive back to Cusco (On route, we´ll make a stop for lunch).

Upon arrival to Cusco, be dropped off at your Cusco hotel. The approximate arrival time is 17:00 hrs.

  • Maximum Altitude: 4971 m (16,309 ft)
  • Time in car: 3.5 hours each way
  • Distance Travelled: 7 km (4.3 miles)
  • Approximate Walking Time: 45 – 60 min
  • Difficulty: Easy – moderate

 

Tips and More Information

* Recommended months: April - October.

* Rainiest months: December - February: Possible erosions and landslides on the route.

* Pick up time from your hotel is subject to climate conditions.

*Red River, this natural event can be seen sometimes only during the rainy season – January to March. Due to red-mineral mudslides into the river. The red color is not warrantied.

*The horses to ride/or to carry your personal belongings are not included.

Spend the night at Aranwa Cusco hotel.

Included: lunch, breakfast buffet

Day 08

From Cusco to Iquitos and Free day


 

From Cusco to Iquitos

At the indicated time, you will be taken to the airport and fly to Iquitos (via Lima). You will be met there and taken to your hotel in Iquitos (shared transfer in).

The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Spend the night at DoubleTree by Hilton Iquitos hotel.

Included: Breakfast

Day 09

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise - Iquitos → Amazon River


 

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – 5 Days (High Water Season: December–May) – Day 1: 

At DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Iquito, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch. On the road to the main dock to board the cruise ship we will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city of Iquitos. 

Our staff will show you to your suite, which will be equipped with comfortable beds, 100% Peruvian Pima cotton sheets, cotton bathrobes, air conditioning and a private bathroom with a shower and amenities. 

Before setting sail, our bartender will serve you a cocktail prepared with local fruit and pisco, the most popular liquor in Peru. You can sip it while enjoying 360° views from the observation deck or a panoramic view from the indoor or outdoor lounge.

After setting sail, our naturalist guides will offer an overview of the travel itinerary, including activities, routes, information about wildlife and vegetation, geographical and historical context, as well as other useful info. If you have any doubts or concerns, our guides are always available to answer your questions. We’ll then enjoy the welcome dinner. 

Start your journey by dining Peruvian cuisine with an Amazon flare. There are many options on our menu, including vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary needs. After dinner, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of the starry night sky while we start our journey to the to the depth of the Amazon rainforest.

*During the high-water season, you will board the cruise ship at the Iquitos port instead of Nauta. This allows the vessel to sail along the Amazon River.

Spend the night at Zafiro .

Included: dinner, lunch, Breakfast

Day 11

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – Amazon Lagoons & Pink Dolphin Encounters


 

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – 5 Days (High Water Season: December–May) – Day 3: Yanayacu of Pucate > Japanese Lagoon > Yanayaquillo > San Regis > Amazonian Natural Park

Breakfast and outing on skiff to different lakes and lagoons, until we reach the Japanese Lagoon. There, we'll enjoy a picnic and one of the best conserved and protected areas of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. It's also a popular spot to view pink river dolphins from the skiff. 

Before heading back to the Zafiro, we'll take a trip to the Yanaquillo. Once we're back on the cruise ship, we'll get ready to go kayaking and take a dip in the black waters.

Head back for lunch aboard the Zafiro. Before starting the afternoon activity, our guides will give a talk about the Amazon philosophy. Afterward, we'll take a walk through the rainforest over hanging bridges, where you can admire the riches of the rainforest from the treetops. 

Once we're back on the Zafiro, our bartender will give a demonstration of how to make Peruvian cocktails, and we'll then enjoy live music while we await the gala dinner with the captain.

Spend the night at Zafiro .

Included: dinner, lunch, Breakfast

Day 10

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – River of Life → Flora, Fauna & Ancient Waters


 

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – 5 Days (High Water Season: December–May) – Day 2: Amazon River > Kukama Reserve (Yanayacu of Yucapana) > Source of the Amazon - Marañón River > Casual > Nauta Creek

Before breakfast, we’ll go out for a boating expedition on the Amazon River to explore the local flora and fauna.

When you get back, enjoy our breakfast buffet, which offers a daily selection of traditional dishes, Peruvian specialties, freshly baked goods and a range of freshly squeezed juices. After breakfast, we'll head out to see the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, which give rise to the Amazon River. Here we'll observe pink and gray river dolphins.

We'll go back to the boat for lunch by midday and then have time to rest. Make sure you attend the talk about the source of the Amazon and the hydrography of the river so that you'll be up to speed for our walk to Puerto Prado, where we'll see the Victoria Amazonica, the largest water lily in the world. We'll then head back to the boat for dinner and live music.

After dinner, we'll enjoy a nighttime outing in search of caimans, tarantulas, frogs and other nocturnal species.

Spend the night at Zafiro .

Included: dinner, lunch, Breakfast

Day 12

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – Myths, Rituals & Riverways


 

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – 5 Days (High Water Season: December–May) – Day 4: Marañón River - San Regis – Shiriyacu Lake

Breakfast and visit to the community of San Regis, where we'll learn about the local people's way of life and traditions.

We'll also learn about their ancestral traditions from the community's shaman. With our guides as interpreters, we'll be able to ask questions about spiritual connections and curing the soul. We'll then continue the ceremony by planting a tree as a positive contribution to the environment. 

There, we'll also see a market set up by women from the community to sell their handmade crafts. Head back for lunch aboard the Zafiro. After resting, the guides will tell us about the myths and legends of the Amazon.

In the afternoon, we'll head out on a skiff to the Shiriyacu stream. There, we'll find a good spot to do some piranha fishing using local techniques and equipment. Back on the boat, we'll enjoy the stunning colors of the sunset. Return to the Zafiro, live music and dinner

Spend the night at Zafiro .

Included: dinner, lunch, Breakfast

Day 13

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise –  A Farewell to the Amazon and Peru


 

Zafiro Iquitos Luxury Cruise – 5 Days (High Water Season: December–May) – Day 5: Marañón River – Nauta – Disembark In Nauta – Iquitos Airport

Before breakfast, we'll visit Nauta, the second most important city in the region. Upon arriving, we'll take a motorcycle taxi to the local market where we'll see what business in the city is like firsthand. After, we'll head back to Zafiro cruise for breakfast.

After breakfast we will proceed to disembark. On the way to the airport, we will visit the Manatee Rescue Center (Amazon Forever Organization) where biologists and volunteers care for manatees, an endangered species that authorities have rescued. 

We will learn how manatees are treated and prepared for their return to their natural habitat. Likewise, we will be able to see other animals that have also been rescued. We will invite you to make a donation to this dedicated organization and study center. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to the airport.

OPTIONAL

Depending on flight availability, your Iquitos–Lima flight is may depart at approximately 14:00 hrs and arrive in Lima at around 16:00 hrs. 

Should you wish to make the most of your time in Lima, we can arrange private transportation at an additional cost to a restaurant of your choice in Miraflores or Barranco for dinner, followed by a timely transfer back to Lima International Airport for your international departure.

NOTES

• The proposed itineraries and programs may vary depending on the weather, the river´s water level, the migratory cycles of the animals and time changes in recommended flights.

• Local communities´ visits: the visits will depend on the availability of its inhabitants. We try to avoid the negative effects of the activity on the identity of cultures and protect the environment.

• Excursions: before each outing, we offer waterproof rubber boots for your comfort and convenience; and after each departure, they will be returned to the staff for cleaning. We also offer waterproof rain ponchos.

• Kayaks: ask your naturalist guide about kayak rides, which will depend on the weather conditions on the days of your trip. You are welcome to sign up for kayak tours at your own risk. These rides take place in calm waters where you can paddle in a relaxed way. Our kayaks are ideal for two passengers.

• Fishing: Our fishing policy is based on catch and release.

• Sodas, natural juices, coffee, tea, water, local beer, house wines and pisco cocktails are included at lunch and dinner. Premium bar with additional cost. • Welcome drink: Pisco Sour.

• Tipping etiquette. On board Zafiro cruise, we recommend a tip amount of USD 25 to USD 30 per passenger per night for the crew (which will be divided among all crew members) and a tip amount of USD 7 to USD 10 per passenger per night for the guides.

Included: Breakfast

Price

All our tours are based on private luxury service and can be fully customized to satisfy your personal needs and preferences. Please do not hesitate to contact us at sales@andeantravelexperience.com and receive full assistance planning your customized private tour in Peru.

Our prices often vary based on the requirements of your trip, and will depend on number of travelers, length of time, type of accommodation, etc.

 

What Included?

  • Domestic Flights
  • Accommodation for 12 nights (subject to availability).
  • Meals as detailed in the program.
  • Private transfers in all destinations.
  • All mentioned tours as detailed in shared/private service with an English-speaking guide.
  • All entrance fees in the mentioned tours.
  • Machu Picchu Exploration
  • 24-hour support from our local team.

What is not Included?

  • PrintoutRate
  • International Flights.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Tips.
  • The meals that are not mentioned in the trip plan.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Travel insurance and repatriation insurance.
  • Optional excursions, activities, and optional tours.

 

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