From ancient civilizations to breathtaking mountain landscapes, this journey invites you to slow down, reconnect, and immerse yourself in a world where history, culture, ancestral traditions, and nature flow together in harmony.

PERU welcomes you with a vibrant mosaic of experiences — mystical archaeological sites, living Andean traditions, world-renowned cuisine, and landscapes that awaken wonder with every sunrise 🏔️🌟

Experience the Sacred Festival of the Sun! 🌞🌞

Be part of INTI RAYMI, Peru’s most iconic spiritual and cultural celebration. Held in Cusco on June 24, this ancient festival honors Inti, the Inca Sun God, through ceremonial processions, radiant costumes, traditional music, and ritual offerings performed at Cusco’s most sacred historical sites. This is a rare and powerful moment when the spiritual heart of the Inca world comes alive — and you are invited to witness it.

Retreat-style Comfort & Immersion 🌿

Every element of this journey is thoughtfully curated to support connection, ease, and presence.
Enjoy a seamless blend of:

• privately guided experiences (local English-speaking guides and Russian-speaking tour leaders)

• premium boutique-style hotels along the way

• upgraded-category train tickets for your comfort

• Premium category seating for the Inti Raymi Festival (note: tickets sell out fast!)

• and meaningful encounters with local culture

A harmonious balance of comfort, depth, and inspiration — so you can experience Peru not just as a destination, but as a transformative journey! 🙏

Inti Raymi is one of Peru’s most spectacular and meaningful celebrations — a winter solstice festival that brings the spirit of the Inca Empire vividly to life.

Held every June 24 in Cusco, it honors Inti, the Sun God, through colorful processions, ritual performances, and traditional music.

Each ceremony reflects gratitude for past harvests, hope for future abundance, and deep respect for nature and ancestors.

Inti Raymi was banned in the 16th century and later revived in 1944 using historical accounts.

This festivity is celebrated in 3 different scenes: Qorikancha (Golden Temple),, Plaza de Armas (the Warrior Square), and the impressive archeological center Saqsaywaman

Watch the video about this amazing event: https://youtu.be/4OShU3lQaGs

During our time in the Sacred Valley, we will have a chance to immerse ourselves in some of the deep cultural or spiritual practices, guided by Andean masters and local artisans. Each experience opens a window into the living traditions of the indigenous Quechua world and the mystical heart of the Andes.

🌺 Despacho Ceremony to Pachamama — a heartfelt offering to Mother Earth, a ritual where a shaman builds a mandala of flowers, grains, sweets, and coca to offer gratitude or intentions, inviting new beginnings, travel protection, healing, and blessings

🔥 Fire ceremony - ancient Andean ritual of spiritual cleansing, used to release old energies and invite new beginnings

🧶 Textile/ Weaving craftsmen visit — learning ancestral techniques of natural dyes and the secret symbolism of weaving patterns. This is a sustainable and deeply cultural experience

🏺 Ceramic or Pottery Creation - hands-on experience, a traditional workshop in the Sacred Valley

🌟 Lima — The Culinary & Cultural Capital

Stroll through the historic center, enjoy panoramic walks along the Miraflores waterfront, and savor Lima’s world-renowned gastronomy with dishes crafted from the freshest seafood.

🌟 Cusco. Inti Raymi Festival

Wander through cobblestone streets, colonial plazas, and ancient temples in one of South America's most atmospheric cities. Travel back in time, watching one of the most iconic festivals in South America!

🌟 The Sacred Valley — History, Landscapes & Living Culture

Explore Inca history through the terraces of Ollantaytambo, the dazzling Maras salt ponds, and the enigmatic circular ruins of Moray — believed to be an ancient agricultural laboratory.

🦙 Alpaca Encounters

Soft, photogenic, and irresistibly charming — your perfect Peruvian selfie companions.

🥾 The Inca Trail ( Express-version, full-day moderate hike)

Hike the final stretch of the legendary trail and enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — a breathtaking arrival few travelers experience.

🌟 Machu Picchu

Uncover the mysteries of the Lost City for sweeping panoramic views of the ruins and surrounding valleys.

🚂 Scenic Machu Picchu Train Journey Through the Andes

Return from Machu Picchu aboard a panoramic train with live Andean music, traditional dance, snacks, and spectacular mountain scenery.

🌈 Rainbow Mountain (Mountain of 7 colors) - optional tour extension

Marvel at one of National Geographic’s “Top 100 Places to Visit” — a surreal landscape painted in seven natural colors.

🌟 Lake Titicaca , the cradle of Inca Civilization - optional tour extension

Visit the floating Uros islands, meet the Aymara people, and discover life on the world’s highest navigable lake.

June to October is the best time for travel and hiking activities to Peru

Layered clothing is your best friend. Temperatures can shift quickly: warm during the day and quite chilly in the evenings. Be sure to pack a light down jacket (700+ fill) to keep you comfortable and warm in any conditions.

• Lima: 15°C to 22°C (60°F–72°F) - overcast, humid, rain unlikely

• Cusco / Sacred Valley/ Inca Trail: 65–72°F during the day — dry, sunny, cold mornings and evenings

• Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu: 68–75°F during the day - warm and humid, chilly mornings and evenings

• Rainbow Mountain: 45–55°F during the day - windy, clear, and dry, cold mornings

• Puno (Lake Titicaca): 55–65°F during the day - clear and dry, with cold nights and mornings

Altitudes:

Lima - 0m / 0" (sea level)

Cusco – 3400m/ 11 152.’

Urubamba (Sacred Valley of Incas) – 3000m/ 9842’

Inca Trail &  Machu Picchu – 2430m/ 7972’ 

Aguas Calientes – 2040 m/ 6700’ 

Optional trip extensions:

Puno & Titicaca region - 3800m / 12500'

Rainbow Mountain - 4300-5020m /14000- 15000'

Suggestions for successful acclimatizing:

• There is no altitude in Lima, but upon arrival in Cusco during the first days, you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, insomnia — this is normal). These usually subside within 1–2 days.

• For better acclimatization, drink plenty of water and herbal teas during the first days, avoid alcohol, and keep physical activity light. If needed, you may take pain relief medication for headaches.

• Coca leaves are widely available in Peru — they can be chewed or brewed as tea. They have a mild stimulating effect and may help with altitude adaptation.

• High altitude travel is not recommended for people with cardiovascular conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnant women. Please consult with your therapist before visiting a high-altitude region.

• Lightweight, compact down jacket
• Windbreaker jacket (for wind and rain protection)
• Light fleece sweater
• Beanie and gloves (for chilly evenings and mornings, must have for Rainbow Mt hike)
• Sun hat or cap
• Trekking poles – bring your own or rent in Cusco (let us know in advance)
• A backpack (25–30L, for day-hiking), with room enough for snacks, water, and a change of clothes for a 1-night stay in Aguas Calientes (hotel)

Comfortable, wind-resistant hiking pants
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and protective lip balm
• Hiking boots – comfortable, preferably waterproof, and previously broken-in
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes (tennis shoes) for the city strolls and day-trips
• Swimsuit (in case of hotel pool in Lima or hot springs in Aguas Calientes)

• Plug adapter (220V) and a power bank

• Electricity: 220V / 60Hz. European-style outlets (Type C, round plugs) are commonly used — bring your own travel adapter.

• Electricity is available throughout the itinerary, but having a portable charger (power bank) is always useful

• Mobile coverage is available in towns and cities, but is very limited or non-existent in rural areas

• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and public areas

• If needed, a convenient alternative to local SIM cards is an eSIM. Popular providers in Latin America include Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi, Nomad, GigSky, and Truphone

• The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (1 USD ≈ 3.44 S/)

• U.S. dollars are accepted in tourist areas; however, for everyday expenses, it is recommended to have local currency (soles)

• The best place to exchange money is at city exchange offices (“casas de cambio”), widely available in Cusco’s historic center — they typically offer better rates than the airport. Exchange offices at the airport and banks usually offer less favorable rates

• ATMs are available in Lima & Cusco. They dispense both soles and U.S. dollars. Note: withdrawal fees may be charged by both local banks and your home bank

• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and galleries in cities. In rural areas, local markets, and small cafés/shops, cash is preferred. It’s advisable to carry a small amount of soles for daily expenses

Peru is considered one of the safest countries in South America. To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, please keep the following recommendations in mind:

• Make digital and printed copies of your passport and your insurance.

• Carry only a small amount of cash for the day; keep valuables in your hotel safe

• Do not leave personal belongings unattended

• Avoid walking in poorly lit areas of Lima after dark. Use a cab (widely available, with meters) or Uber

• Drink only bottled water. Tap water is safe for brushing your teeth

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and peel them when possible

• Dine at recommended restaurants. Street food should only be tried in trusted places recommended by your guides. Avoid freshly squeezed juices and drinks sold in street markets. In reputable restaurants, juices are safe and encouraged

• Pack your personal travel medical kit — including any prescription medications, as well as remedies for headaches, motion sickness, digestive issues, and basic first aid (e.g., band-aids)

1. Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Peru

2. A visa-free entrance to Peru is granted for American citizens (up to 90 days of stay)

3. Travel Insurance is a MUST-HAVE for this trip for the entire duration of your trip

Don’t forget to arrange travel medical insurance before departure to stay covered for any medical issues or any accidents during your trip.

Keep a copy of your policy and the insurance company’s contact details with you.

You may purchase insurance coverage from Generali Travel Insurance Company https://www.generalitravelinsurance.com/ or from any other insurance provider of your choice.

If you cancel your trip due to your own personal or medical reasons, the following cancellation terms will be applied:

- Registration deposit is non-refundable after the trip is confirmed and the booking process has started

- Cancellation 90 to 45 days before departure - up to 50% of the trip cost is non-refundable

- Cancellation 44  to 0 calendar days before departure – up to 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable

Safarika Travel Inc. has successfully undergone a compliance review with the California Business & Professions Code conducted by the State of California in 2024

Safarika Travel Inc. is registered with the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund (TCRF) 

That means, that under specific circumstances, California residents may recover funds up to USD 5000 paid for travel services if not provided by a registered travel seller.

California Seller of Travel Registration: 2112795-40 

Travel Consumer Restitution Fund (TCRF) registration ID #709454 

Late-night arrival in Lima (9:25 PM & 10:10 PM).

Lima - the gateway to Peru and the start of our journey. That first “we’re finally here” moment ✈️

We all gather as a ONE group at the airport and meet with our Team Leader holding a name-board "Safarika Adventure Club".

Drive by private van to our hotel in Miraflores - a vibrant coastal neighborhood just steps from the ocean!

Check in at Hotel Jose Antonio Deluxe, and take a good rest.

Tomorrow, the adventure begins! 🤩

Altitude of Lima - sea level, 0m/feet

Meals: not included

A perfect introduction to Lima — where ancient civilizations, colonial splendor, and modern life come together in one unforgettable experience.

Your journey begins in Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where grand colonial architecture surrounds the elegant Main Square. Here you’ll see the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace — timeless icons of the City of Kings.

Continue to the San Francisco Monastery, famous for its atmospheric catacombs. These underground chambers, once Lima’s early cemetery, reveal a fascinating glimpse into colonial life and ancient burial traditions.

Next, explore the extraordinary Gold Museum, home to one of Peru’s most impressive private collections of pre-Columbian treasures. Gold masks, ceremonial objects, textiles, and rare artifacts illuminate thousands of years of Andean artistry.

Miraflores, Lima’s modern, seaside district. Enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from the clifftop parks and feel the city's vibrant, contemporary energy.

Lima is a gastronomic paradise where you can savor world-renowned cuisine! You will have a chance to explore the Miraflores neighborhood for top-notch seafood. And you won't miss the chance to pair exquisite dishes with amazing ocean views over the Pacific, creating a dining experience that's as unforgettable as the flavors. 

Overnight in Hotel Jose Antonio Deluxe, Lima

Meals included:

Breakfast (at hotel in Lima)

After breakfast in the hotel, check out and transfer to the airport.

Take a flight to Cusco (1:25 & 1:45 PM).

Arrive in Cusco. A 15-minute ride takes you to the Old Town Cusco. After check-in at the hotel, enjoy free time in the city. Don't forget to drink plenty of water and coca tea to help you acclimate to the altitude. Overnight in a hotel located within walking distance from the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco.

No activities planned. Free time for rest and acclimatizing.

Overnight Tambo del Arriero Hotel Boutique, Cusco.

The altitude of Cusco: 11200" /3400m

Meals included:

Breakfast (at the hotel in Lima)

After a slow breakfast in the hotel, start exploring Cusco and nearby attractions:

Walk in Old Town with a local guide, visit Cusco Cathedral, Qorikancha temple, Saksayuaman fortress, and other Inca sites.

Enjoy panoramic city views from iconic viewpoints.

Free time after lunch to explore on your own.

If you wish, experience a chocolate-making workshop in one of the galleries in town (optional, not included).

The rest of the day is free for strolling the streets and shopping.

Overnight in Cusco, Tambo del Arriero Hotel Boutique

Experience the power of Inti Raymi, Cusco’s most important festival, with an itinerary designed to guide you through the main stages of this ancient Inca celebration.

8:00 AM to 4 PM:

Qoricancha – Opening Ceremony

Hotel pickup and transfer to Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, to witness the Inca’s ceremonial greeting to Inti, accompanied by his royal entourage.

Main Square – Second Staging

Walk to Cusco’s Main Square for the “Meeting of Times,” where the Inca and the Coya arrive on ceremonial litters surrounded by music, dance, and representatives of the four suyos.

Sacsayhuamán – Main Ceremony

Transfer to Sacsayhuamán for the grand finale. From your reserved seat (green sector), enjoy the three-hour central ceremony featuring dances, chants, and offerings honoring the Sun God.

4:00 p.m.| Return to Hotel

After the ceremony, transfer back to your hotel — a memorable end to a day filled with Inca history, culture, and tradition.

Evening is free for leisure.

Overnight in Tambo del Arriero Hotel Boutique, Cusco.

After breakfast at the hotel, we check out from Cusco and drive into the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas (~1hr).

Our first stop is Chinchero village, where we visit a local weaving community. You’ll see traditional weaving techniques and meet the famous fluffy alpacas 🦙. Here, there will also be the opportunity to dress up like locals and take amazing pictures wearing ponchos and traditional Peruvian sombreros.

We continue to Ollantaytambo for a guided visit to its impressive Inca ruins.

Ollantaytambo is known for its well-preserved Inca ruins, including a massive fortress and temple complex set amid stunning Andean mountain peaks.

Ollantaytambo was an important administrative and religious center during the time of the Inca Empire. The ruins found there are believed to have been both a fortress and a ceremonial site.

In the afternoon, check in at Willka Tikka retreat and enjoy some free time to rest and explore the hotel's amenities and gardens.

Vegetarian dinner is served at 6:30 PM, followed by a special evening: a Despacho ceremony and fire circle with a local shaman (7:30–9:30 PM).

Overnight in retreat.

Sacred Valley of Incas altitude

Meals included:

Breakfast (at the hotel in Cusco)

Lunch -buffet (Urubamba).

Dinner (vegetarian at retreat)

Yoga class is available for early birds between 7-8 AM (local teacher, mats provided).

8-9 AM - Breakfast at retreat.

After a slow breakfast in retreat, we explore Maras and Moray, the two remarkable archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. 

Maras is known for its salt mines, where salt is harvested from terraced pools. The panoramic view of Maras is unique and impressive. 

Moray features concentric agricultural terraces that allowed the Incas to experiment with different crops and microclimates. Both sites showcase the ingenuity of the Inca civilization and its deep connection with the land. Visiting Maras and Moray provides a unique glimpse into ancient Inca practices and their remarkable achievements.

After having lunch, we’ll head to the ceramic workshop, where you can create your own small pottery piece — a simple, personal souvenir to take home.

Return to the retreat around 5 PM.

Take some rest before dinner at the retreat.

IMPORTANT:

This evening, you need to pack your backpack for the following hiking day & overnight in the Aguas Calientes hotel. Note: your main suitcase will be transferred back to the Cusco hotel tomorrow. Please, also make sure you have your water bottle filled up for the first few hours of the day-hike.

Overnight in Willka Tikka retreat, Sacred Valley.

Meals included:

Breakfast in hotel (Cusco)

Lunch buffet (Sacred Valley)

Dinner at retreat

6:00 AM - Check out & pick up from hotel.

7:45 AM - Expedition category train to trailhead, km 104 (45min ride). 

The hike starts at a relatively low elevation of 2,270 m /7448 ft, the starting point.

After approximately 3 hours of hiking, we’ll reach the most beautiful Incan site on the Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna (translated as Forever Young from Kechua) at 2,650 m/8,694 ft.

Amazing opportunity to see the elaborate water fountains, temples, and agricultural terraces, and learn about the history of the Incas. 

A packed lunch and water to refill your reservoirs will be offered enroute.

From Wiñay Wayna, we’ll walk to the Inti Punku - The Sun Gate of Machu Picchu!

This is where we’ll see the picturesque landscape of the famous Machu Picchu. After taking in the once-in-a-lifetime photos of the Machu Picchu views, we will begin to descend to the town of Aguas Calientes.

Walking distance of the day:  15 km / 9 mi

Elevation gain: 600m/ 1900ft up and drop

Elevation of the trailhead (start): 2000m / 6500ft

The highest point of the trail: 2650m / 8694 ft

Elevation of Aguas Calientes (finish): 2040m / 6700ft

Stay at the Taypikala Hotel Boutique

Aguas Calientes elevation - 2040m/ 6700 ft

Early breakfast at the hotel. Check out.

**Leave your backpacks at the hotel storage room for later pick up (backpacks bigger than 25L are not allowed to Machu Picchu).

7:30 AM - pick up from the hotel, take a shuttle to the archeological site entrance (25-min ride).

9:00 AM - a guided tour around the archaeological site awaits.

12:00 PM - Return with the shuttle to Aguas Calientes. After lunch, proceed to the railway station

3: 42PM - Board an afternoon train back to Cusco, where you will be met on arrival (~7 PM) by our representatives and returned to your hotel in Cusco.

Pick up your main luggage and check in.

Machu Picchu altitude: 2400 m/7900 ft

Cusco altitude:11200" /3400m

Meals included:

Breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes

Lunch in Aguas Calientes

As the official part of our itinerary comes to an end today, say goodbye to Peru, a land of mountains, mysteries, and unforgettable celebrations, and take your flight back to Lima at your preferred time.

Transfers from the hotel to the airport of Cusco will be managed on a private basis upon request.

But! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can extend your stay for a few extra days — hike the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (allow 1 full day & 1 extra night in Cusco) or enjoy a cultural journey to Lake Titicaca (allow 3 full days & 2 extra nights in Puno).

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Optional extension: Rainbow Mountain Day-hike from Cusco:

Early pick-up from the hotel (~4:30 AM)

Take a 3-hour drive to the trailhead, where you start the gradual uphill hike to the colorful Vinicunca Mountain (aka Rainbow Mountain). 

Don't forget warm clothes; the mornings are cold, and it can be windy on a trek.

Spectacular views of the Ausangate mountain massif and Cordillera Vilcanota will impress you on the way.  After being well-acclimatized in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, this trek hopefully won't be too difficult for you; however, altitude sickness symptoms may still be felt. The route is a gradual incline, not steep. But if you feel like renting a horse, that's possible to do from locals (paid directly in soles).

Back in Cusco around ~4 PM (TBC).

Overnight in Tambo del Arriero Hotel Boutique, Cusco.

Total walking distance: 8 km  / 5 miles

Trailhead altitude (starting point): 4326m/14189"

Rainbow Mt altitude (highest point): 5020m/16466'

Meals included:

Breakfast at the hotel or a packed breakfast (for Rainbow Mt. hikers)

Lunch on the trail (only for Rainbow Mt hikers)

Jun 30 : Cusco → Puno

Breakfast & check out from the hotel in Cusco.

Pick up from the hotel by your driver (private vehicle)

Begin your scenic journey to Puno, gateway to Lake Titicaca. The 6–7 hour drive includes stunning Andean views and stops — high plains, snowcapped peaks, traditional villages, La Raya Pass (4,335 m), llama and alpaca pastures, and the tranquil Vilcanota River.

Overnight in a hotel by the lake in Puno

Jul 1 – Lake Titicaca: Uros & Taquile Islands

Pick up from the hotel after breakfast.

Early departure by boat to the floating Uros Islands for an introduction to their unique culture. Continue to Taquile Island, famous for its master weavers. Visit the main square, meet a local family, and enjoy a traditional home-cooked lunch. Return to Puno in the late afternoon. Overnight in the hotel.

Jul 2 – Sillustani → Juliaca → Lima → Home

Breakfast and free time till check out.

Pick up by private vehicle and drive to Juliaca Airport, stopping at Sillustani Chullpas (time permitting), an ancient pre-Inca and Inca burial site overlooking Lake Umayo.

Fly to Lima in the afternoon, and connect to your flight back home on arrival.

2 nights stay in Sonesta Posada del Inka, Lake Titicaca

Puno altitude: 3800 m / 12500 "

Meals included:

1 Breakfast (hotel in Cusco), 2 breakfasts (hotel in Puno)

2 Lunches

With full hearts and vivid memories, we say goodbye to Peru — its ancient spirit, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes. May its magic stay with you long after you leave.