Discover the wonders of Peru including the legendary Machu Picchu

Itinerary

1. Day

   1

   Arrive in Lima

   Lima, Peru

   Today you'll arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, where a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and show you to the wonderful Country Club Lima Hotel, your home for the next two nights. This hotel, with its blend of architectural charm, history, and modern comfort, is the perfect base for exploring the city.

2. Day

   2

   Lima

   Lima, Peru

   Today you'll get to explore Lima. Known as the 'City of Kings,' Lima was founded in 1535 and is now a melting pot of cultures, flavours, and history. This buzzing metropolis has something for everyone, and today you'll get to discover it all.

   You'll enjoy a panoramic drive along the coastline of Lima in Miraflores and stroll around the Plaza San Martín and Plaza de Armas, the main square. Your guide will then take you to the San Francisco Monastery, where a maze of intriguing tunnels and catacombs await.

   Later on, you'll visit Casa Aliaga. Built in 1535, this colonial mansion is one of Lima's oldest buildings. Built for the Aliaga family, it has been passed down the family for 17 generations. You'll get to meet a family member who'll give you a fascinating tour and show you artefacts and art from centuries past, before you enjoy a delicious lunch at the mansion.

3. Day

   3

   Fly to Iquitos

   Iquitos, Peru

   This morning you'll be picked up at your hotel and taken to the airport for your flight to Iquitos. You'll be greeted on your arrival at Iquitos Airport by a representative who'll escort you to the Aria Amazon, your luxurious home for the next seven nights.

   Before heading to the ship, a local guide will take you on a captivating tour through the Belen market. This vibrant market is a unique place, and this tour gives you the chance to explore its lively atmosphere and meet some of the local traders. You'll also head to the Nanay Bridge for breathtaking views of the Nanay River, soaking in the natural beauty of the Amazon region.

   In the evening, look forward to a welcome reception dinner created by Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Famous for his innovative take on Amazonian cuisine, this dinner will be bursting in flavours from the Peruvian Amazon.

4. Day

   4

   The Ucayali and Yarapa River

   Ucayali River,

   Your day starts with a wildlife-spotting adventure along the Ucayali River. Parrots, egrets, hawks, and monkeys are some of the Amazonian wildlife who call this verdant river home.

   This afternoon, you'll have a choice of activities to pick from. Maybe you'll want to kayak, canoe, or swim through the black waters of Clavero Lake. Alternatively, take the unique opportunity to meet some of the native ribereños, which roughly translates to 'river people.' These Amazonian villagers live on the banks of the rivers will teach you about their culture.

   At dusk, head out on an excursion with an expert naturalist guide in search of the nocturnal Amazonian wildlife. While cruising the Yarapa River in search of these intriguing creatures, don't forget to turn your gaze upwards for a crystal-clear view of the constellations in the clear skies.

5. Day

   5

   Into the Amazon

   Puerto Prado, Peru

   Today you'll spend some more time exploring the vibrant wildlife and lush greenery thriving deep in the Amazon. Explore with the expert guidance of a naturalist guide, who'll teach you all about the forest's diverse and unique wildlife.

   There's also the chance to explore the Tahuayo River, a black water tributary of the Amazon River and learn about the river through the stories shared by your guide.

   After lunch onboard Aria Amazon, you'll venture out on a jungle walk through the forest to explore the Amazonian flora and the fauna of Puerto Prado.

6. Day

   6

   Nauta

   Nauta, Peru, Peru
7. Day

   7

   Marañón River and Yanayacu Pucate river

   Marañón River, Peru, Peru

   Today brings the chance to see more of the bustling Amazon river life as you sail along the Marañón River, searching for Taricaya turtles and other wildlife.

   One of the most important water sources in Peru, and a main Amazon tributary, the Marañón River is abundant in animal and plant life. Be on the lookout for one of the 64 rare bird species native to the area.

   You'll also explore the black waters of the Yanayacu Pucate River, where you'll want to keep an eye out for sloths, egrets, parrots, and the Taricaya turtles. Afterwards, visit an Amazon village to witness a demonstration of Aguaje palm harvesting.

   After lunch, embark on a top bucket-list adventure for your Amazonian trip, piranha fishing. Your guide will show you how to safely hunt for the notorious fish from the safety of our comfortable river skiffs.

   Once the sun sets, you'll set out once again with your naturalist guide in search of the exotic nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon.

8. Day

   8

   Samiria River

   Ucayali River,

   It's an early start today, but it won't be in vain. Look forward to a picnic lunch under the Amazonian shade, and enjoy eating your food to the sound of the vibrant jungle symphony of bird calls and monkey howls.

   You'll then get the chance to go fishing with an expert guide along the black waters of Samiria River and go on a jungle walk, canoe, kayak, or swim inside the lush Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.

   At sunset, you'll take a cruise along the Ucayali River enjoying unforgettable views as the sun goes down over this majestic river - keep your eyes peeled for fabulous pink river dolphins breaching the waters.

9. Day

   9

   Puerto Prado Forest

   Marañón River, Peru, Peru

   This morning you'll have another chance to explore the jungle by walking, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming, before a visit to Puerto Prado Forest.

   Today, you'll be exploring the rainforest by skiff as you cruise the Marañón River. If you're lucky, you may spot some of the pink river dolphins who call these waters home.

   You'll also get a chance to see the giant water lilies that grow here. These lily pads are known to grow up to 10 ft in diameter and have been recorded being able to hold hundreds of pounds without sinking under the water.

   Today you'll also have the opportunity to visit an indigenous village to learn about local life in the Amazon.

10. Day

    10

    Nauta

    Nauta, Peru, Peru

    Take a morning walk through the town of Nauta before disembarking the Aria Amazon. Your guide will take you on a few final excursions as you make your way to Iquitos airport for your flight to Cusco. Once you've landed in Cusco, you'll transfer to the Tambo del Inka hotel in the Sacred Valley.

    Founded in 1930, Nauta is a central gathering place for Amazonian villagers to buy and trade their local harvests, and your guide will show you around the town and give you an insight into the daily life of the local people.

    There's also the chance to visit a manatee rescue centre today. Manatees in the Amazon face multiple threats, from habitat destruction to hunting. The Amazon Rescue Center takes in orphaned baby manatees, rehabilitates them, and releases them back into the wild. During this visit, you'll have a chance to see these majestic creatures up close.

11. Day

    11

    Urubamba

    Urubamba, Peru

    You'll have a day at leisure today, so you can make the most out of your stay at the wonderful Tambo del Inka.

    Perhaps you'll treat yourself to a relaxing service at their Kallpa Spa, considered one of the best in the country, take a dip in the heated pool, or savour delicious Andean cuisine in the excellent restaurant.

    Situated in the heart of the Sacred Valley, the Tambo del Inka is also the perfect location from which to head out on your own to explore the incredible nature, cities, and historical sites available nearby.

    If you want a dose of culture, there's an optional excursion to The Art Gallery, a creative space owned by famous Peruvian artist Pablo Seminario. Here, you can join a workshop on painting, during which you'll make your own tile that will be dried and burned in the oven for you, and later delivered to your hotel in Cusco to take home as a souvenir.**

12. Day

    12

    Aguas Calientes

    Aguas Calientes, Peru

    Today you will explore the heartland of the Inka Empire, known as the Sacred Valley. Your guide will take you to Moray and Ollantaytambo, two important historic sites.

    A pre-Inkan site, Moray is considered to be a significant Inka agricultural research centre. Your guide will give you a tour of the round, agricultural terraces. Afterward, you will meet with local women who will show you traditional Peruvian weaving techniques.

    Ollantaytambo is an impressive fortress that overlooks one of the oldest villages in Cusco. After your tour of the fortress, you will walk to the 'last living Inka village of Peru,' which sits under Ollantaytambo and see the fascinating way of life in the Sacred Valley during a visit to a village home.

    Afterward, enjoy a picnic as you enjoy the sounds of traditional local Inkan instruments and have a go at making your own panpipe.

    The day ends with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the small villages nestled at the bottom of Machu Picchu.

13. Day

    13

    Machu Picchu

    Machu Picchu, Peru

    Today is a real bucketlist travel day, as you make your way to the iconic Machu Picchu.

    A breathtaking historical sight, Machu Picchu is one of the 'must-see' archeological sites in the world. This remarkable Inkan Empire site was never found by the Spaniards and was rediscovered in the 20th century. Today, archeologists continue to excavate Machu Picchu , and many mysterious still surround this historic citadel.

    Your day starts early with a shuttle bus up to the ancient citadel. Your guide will share stories about the Inka civilization, the site's discovery, and all the theories surrounding this spectacular piece of history. Enjoy lunch at the famous Sanctuary Lodge before heading back down to Aguas Calientes.

    Following your busy day at Machu Picchu, you'll take a train to Ollantaytambo and then a coach to the Palacio del Inka hotel in Cusco.

14. Day

    14

    Cusco

    Cusco, Peru

    Located high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was the heartland of the Inkan Empire. A blend of ancient Andean cultures with Spanish colonial influence, Cusco is not to be missed.

    Today, you will explore all the wonders of this city on an immersive tour, as you marvel at its cobblestone streets, colourful textiles and wonderful art galleries.

    Start your morning off at Sacsayhuamán, the Inkan ceremonial fortress dedicated to the sun. Indulge your senses at the San Pedro market as you wander through the colourful stands overflowing with fruits, vegetables, spices, and local products.

    Your tour continues after lunch with visits to the renaissance-style Cathedral and Koricancha, the temple dedicated to the sun 'Inti.'

    Your day ends with a memorable dining experience inside the San Francisco Monastery of Cusco before you return to the Palacio del Inka hotel for a restful night's sleep.

15. Day

    15

    Fly to Lima

    Lima, Peru

    You'll fly back to Lima today where you'll have some time to wander around the vibrant San Blas neighbourhood, which is bursting with beautiful handicrafts and antique stores

    You'll visit the Hilario Mendivil Museum, showcasing the work of Mendivil, an artist famous for statues of saints with notoriously long necks, and wander down small alleys with your guide before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

    Later on, you'll head to the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel, where you'll stay overnight before your flight home in the morning.

16. Day

    16

    Departure

    Lima, Peru

    Your once-in-a-lifetime Peruvian adventure comes to an end this morning. Your guide will walk you from the Wyndham Costa del Sol Lima Airport hotel to the Lima International Airport check-in for your flight back to the UK.