Peru History & Culture, Private Tour
Peru History & Culture, Private Tour
6 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Cusco, Peru
Visiting: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu
Tour operator:
Tour code:
165763
Group Type:
Private
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
6-99
Tour operated in:
English , French , SpanishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Peru on this private tour, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Lima and Cusco. Begin your journey in Lima, where colonial architecture meets the Pacific Ocean, and enjoy a gastronomic experience and a visit to the renowned Larco Museum. Fly to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, and immerse yourself in its blend of pre-Columbian and Spanish influences. Visit the majestic Sacsayhuaman fortress and participate in traditional ceramic and gold leaf workshops. The highlight of your adventure is a trip to the iconic Machu Picchu, the 'lost city of the Incas,' nestled in the Andean mountains. Enjoy private transfers, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations throughout your stay.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: El Tambo II or similar 3*, José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*, Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*
Arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima. Upon arrival, a representative will be waiting to greet you at the airport and the transportation service will transfer you to your hotel at the scheduled time. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure in Lima, the capital of Peru and a city steeped in history. During Colonial times, the Historic Centre of Lima, known as the ‘Ciudad de los Reyes’ (City of Kings), was the political, administrative, religious and economic centre for the Spanish in Peru. The historical centre is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. Lima is now a modern metropolis and is currently undergoing an exciting process of cultural and economic change. Take the opportunity to rest and recover after the flight or head out into the city for your first glimpse of life in Peru´s sprawling capital city. Alternatively, you can book our optional Magic Water Circuit with Dinner and Folk Show:
Magic Water Circuit with Dinner and Folk Show (private basis):
A modern system of fountains certified as the largest in the world by the Guinness World Records. Built-in Exhibition Park, the Magical Water Circuit attracts crowds during summer and winter, being one of the new favorite attractions of Lima. See yourself and enjoy our water cruise that is followed by a unique gastronomical experience at a restaurant, accompanied by a delicious buffet dinner and amusing folk show.
Notes: Private service. Start time: 18:00 hours. Duration 4 hours. Includes Pick-up and Drop-off, Bilingual guide (Spanish and English), Admission to Magic Water Circuit, and Buffet Dinner with Folkloric show
Overnight in Lima
Day 2 : Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: El Tambo II or similar 3*, José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*, Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, after breakfast, walk along the boardwalk and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean from the only South American capital with direct access to the sea. End this morning stroll with a delightful gastronomic experience: learn to prepare delicious Peruvian dishes that you’ll then enjoy for lunch. Return to your hotel to rest before continuing to the Larco Museum, located in the traditional district of Pueblo Libre and housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion. Considered one of the 20 best museums in the world, it has amazing pre-Hispanic collections that you can discover in a fun way with ‘The trips of AiApaec’, an activity aimed at families that combines games and dynamics to teach children and adults about Peru's past. If you’re up for more, why not join our optional night tour in Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco Seefront & Pisco Museum:
Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco Seefront & Pisco Museum Night Tour (private basis):
Join our Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco Seefront & Pisco Museum Night Tour and explore the most attractive areas of the cities of San Isidro, Miraflores, and Barranco. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from the top of the cliffs and pass by the famous Love Park (panoramic drive in a case of high traffic). In Pisco Museum you will take a part in a demonstrative experience where you will learn about the history of this national drink and with the help of an experienced bartender, you prepare a cocktail yourself, all accompanied by beautiful tapas tasting.
Notes: Private service. Start time: 17:00 hours. Duration 3 hours. Pick-up and Drop-off, Bilingual guide (Spanish and English), Demonstrative cocktail experience at Pisco Museum, an appetizer
Overnight in Lima
Day 3 : Lima - Cusco (90 Min By Flight; Not Included)
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*, Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*, Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, then take a transfer to the airport to fly to Cusco (arriving no later than 10:30). You will be met by one of our representatives in Cusco who will transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon, once you are checked in, make the most of the rest of the day, which is free for you to enjoy Cusco at leisure. You can start exploring the city by wandering aimlessly through its fascinating streets, gazing at churches and trying local delicacies, and relaxing in one of its many squares, filled with vibrant Inca charm. Alternately, put your feet up at the hotel and enjoy a relaxing day before continuing your thrilling adventure the following day, or you can book our optional tour:
Half-Day South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas (private basis):
A unique tour that includes visits to the most important attractions between Cusco and Puno. Being the first to explore breath-taking archeological sites Tipón and its impressive rural colonial mansion where the Incas constructed an impressive irrigation system in harmony with nature that is still perceived by the surrounding population. In Pikillacta, the best-preserved pre-Inca cities we´ll follow the remains of the Wari culture, ancestor of the Incas, and in the beautiful Church of Andahuaylillas, also called "The Sistine Chapel of America” we´ll see the Wari´s marvelous original pipe organ. Take the most advantage of our tour and enjoy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Notes: Private service. Start time: 13:00 hours. Duration 4.5 hours. Includes Pick-up and Drop-off, Bilingual guide (Spanish and English), Admission to Andahuaylillas and BTC (Cusco tourist ticket).
Overnight in Cusco
Day 4 : Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*, Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*, Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Let your imagination soar in two magnificent workshops offered by Art Trail, an artistic and cultural development project that aims to rescue local Cusco traditions and give them a new life through art. The first workshop, Cusco Colonial Glazed Ceramics, will teach you how to make a traditional Cusco figure, a Pucara horse or bull, which will be glazed and dried for you to take away. The second workshop, Colonial Gold Leaf, gives you the opportunity to decorate your work with gold leaf, using a traditional technique recovered by Art Trail and applied to contemporary crafts. Both workshops are taught by renowned Cusco artists, and after the sessions your two personalised works will be delivered to your hotel the following day, so you can take a unique piece of Peruvian art back home. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the former capital of the Inca Empire. The tour begins at the Santo Domingo Convent, a building constructed on the site of Coricancha, one of the most important Incan complexes dedicated to sun worship. According to historic records, the original temple walls depicted scenes of nature and were covered in gold leaf. After Coricancha, visit the imposing cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, then head to the Cusco hills, where you’ll find the fortress of Sacsayhuaman and panoramic views of Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 5 : Cusco - Machu Picchu - Cusco (150 Km - 4 Hrs By Land / 3Hr By Train)
Location: Machu Picchu
Accommodation Name: San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*, Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*, Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel then transfer to the Ollanta station to begin your trip to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the approximately two-hour train ride through spectacular Andean landscapes to Aguas Calientes, also known as ‘Machu Picchu Pueblo’, the last stop from where you’ll take a bus to the most important archaeological site in Peru. Machu Picchu, which means ‘Old Mountain’, is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and one of the seven new wonders of the world. It is believed it was built for the Inca emperor Pachacútec around 1450 as a holiday residence. The citadel was abandoned just over 100 years later – probably as a result of the Spanish Conquest – although historians have never uncovered why it was abandoned, or how it escaped the destruction that other Inca settlements faced. Instead, the jungle slowly engulfed its stone construction, covering it in a thick vegetation that kept it hidden and protected until the ‘lost city of the Incas’ was brought to international attention in 1911. At the end of the tour, take a bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll be taken to Aguas Calientes station, from where you’ll board the train back to Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 6 : Depart Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
After finishing your breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to the airport, where you’ll catch a flight to Lima. Although this is the last day of your journey, we hope that your memories of this remarkable region, bursting with both culture and history, will last a lifetime.
Breakfast included.
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with English, Spanish or French speaking local guide on a private basis.
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Accommodation
5 nights of accommodation in selected hotel categories.
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Meals
5 breakfasts and 2 lunches on days 2 and 5.
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Transport
Private transfers from and to the airport, shared transfers from and to the train stations, roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail), and bus Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes.
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Entrance Fees and Activities
All the activities mentioned in the programme: Gastronomic experience and The trips of Aiapaec at Larco Museum on day 2 (Lima); Workshop of ceramic glazed in Cusco, Coricancha, Cathedral and Sacsayhuamán on day 4, Machu Picchu on day 5. Boleto Turístico de Cusco (BTC ticket) included.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses, drinks and meals not explicitly mentioned in the programme.
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Tips
Tips for driver and guide.
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International Flights
International flights to Peru.
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Domestic Flights
Domestic flights (it is advised to book the first flights in the morning).
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Airport Taxes
Domestic and foreign airport taxes.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while for the high Andean area the use of warm clothing is recommended. It is not recommended that visitors wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
Day 1: Optional extra Magic Water Circuit with Dinner and Folkloric Show does not operate on Mondays.
Rates do not apply to Peruvians or residents with more than 60 days of stay. If passengers are Peruvians or exceed 60 days of stay, sale taxes (18%) will be collected by our local operator
Domestic flight from Lima to Cusco must arrive not later than 10:30hrs. Noon arrivals are too late.
Please note that Check In in most hotels begins at 13:00 hrs. Clients will be subject to the availability of the room if they arrive before, waiting in the hotel lobby
If your trip includes the visit to high altitude cities such as Cusco and Puno located at more than 3400 meters (11 200 feet above sea level), do not forget to take precautions in order to avoid altitude sickness. Passengers who have heart problems or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before travelling
Upon arrival is recommended to rest for few hours, drink coca tea and eat lightly. As a reference Machu Picchu is located at 2400 meters (8 000 feet above sea level)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW ENTRANCE REGULATIONS TO MACHU PICCHU
The current restrictions on visits to Machu Picchu allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide during the first entry. If the visitor tours an alternate route (Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu) the passenger will have 3 hours to for this purpose, additional to the 4 hours in the citadel. If the passenger wishes to enter the citadel again during the afternoon shift or the next day, he must acquire previously an additional ticket to enter in the new shift. There is no ticket sale in the archaeological zone.
It is forbidden the follow objects: professional cameras that require lights and tripods, or with telephoto lenses with a weigh higher than 2 kilos (in order to use them, special authorization is needed, as well as the payment of an additional fee), drones, selfie sticks, sprays, high heels, walking sticks without rubber tip, banners and posters, sharp objects and backpacks bigger than 40cm x 35 cm x 20 cm.
INSTRUCTIONS
Carry the same document that you presented to the agency, given that the train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu will be issued with the same information
In all train services to Machu Picchu, the passenger can carry only hand luggage (backpack, bag or briefcase) weighing no more than 5kg / 11lb on the train to / from Machu Picchu. You will find your luggage at the chosen hotel. Allowed size: 62 linear inches 157cm (height + length + width)
NEW PLASTIC REGULATION:
After the prohibition of the access of single use plastic items to 76 natural areas including Machu Picchu, it is important to use reusable bottles.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2; Lima:
- Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*
Day 3- 5; Cusco
- Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-night in Lima:
- Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*
Post-night in Cusco:
- Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Mode of Transport
Private transfers from and to the airport, shared transfers from and to the train stations, roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail), and bus transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
Enjoy 5 nights of accommodation with options ranging from 3-star to 5-star hotels. In Lima, choose between El Tambo II, José Antonio Deluxe, or Hyatt Centric San Isidro. In Cusco, options include San Agustin Internacional, Hilton Garden Inn, or Aranwa Cusco Boutique.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2; Lima:
- Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*
Day 3- 5; Cusco
- Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
OPTIONAL EXTRA:
Pre-night in Lima:
- Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*
Post-night in Cusco:
- Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*
Check out our Q&As
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What languages are available for the tour guide?
The tour guide is available in English, Spanish, or French on a private basis.
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What kind of accommodation options are available during the tour?
Accommodation options include Standard, Superior, and Deluxe hotel categories. In Lima, you can stay at El Tambo II (3*), José Antonio Deluxe (4*), or Hyatt Centric San Isidro (5*). In Cusco, options include San Agustin Internacional (3*), Hilton Garden Inn (4*), or Aranwa Cusco Boutique (5*).
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 5 breakfasts and 2 lunches on days 2 and 5.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes private transfers from and to the airport, shared transfers from and to the train stations, roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail), and bus transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
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What activities are included in the tour?
Included activities are a gastronomic experience and 'The trips of Aiapaec' at Larco Museum on day 2 in Lima, a workshop of ceramic glazing in Cusco, visits to Coricancha, the Cathedral, and Sacsayhuamán on day 4, and a visit to Machu Picchu on day 5. The Boleto Turístico de Cusco (BTC ticket) is also included.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities include the Magic Water Circuit with Dinner and Folk Show in Lima on day 1, a night tour in Miraflores, San Isidro, Barranco Seefront & Pisco Museum on day 2, and a Half-Day South Valley Tour: Tipón, Pikillaqta, and Andahuaylillas on day 3.
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What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for coastal areas, while warm clothing is recommended for high Andean areas. It is not recommended to wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful.
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What are the new entrance regulations to Machu Picchu?
The current restrictions allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide during the first entry. If you tour an alternate route like Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu, you will have 3 additional hours. If you wish to enter the citadel again, you must acquire an additional ticket in advance. Certain items like professional cameras, drones, selfie sticks, sprays, high heels, walking sticks without rubber tips, banners, posters, sharp objects, and large backpacks are prohibited.
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What should I do to avoid altitude sickness in high-altitude cities like Cusco and Puno?
It is recommended to rest for a few hours upon arrival, drink coca tea, and eat lightly. Passengers with heart problems or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before traveling.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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Low Deposit
Lima Tours requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 89 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of lima tours charges.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.