HEARTH OF THE ANDES
About this journey
From the breathtaking landscapes and living traditions of the Sacred Valley to the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, the colonial charm of Cusco, and the timeless culture preserved in its local markets, every day unfolds at a comfortable pace, allowing you to connect with the landscapes, the people, and the history that make this destination so extraordinary.
Designed exclusively for you, this private journey combines authentic experiences and exceptional hospitality
Itinerary
Welcome to Lima
Arrive in Lima, where you are welcomed and accompanied to your hotel in Peru's coastal capital. The rest of the day is yours to rest after your flight. If time allows, an optional half-day tour reveals the city's many layers, from the colonial heart of the historic centre to the seaside districts of Miraflores and Barranco.
Overnight in Lima
Into the Sacred Valley
Fly to Cusco, where your guide welcomes you before continuing by private transport into the Sacred Valley. Mountains, farmland and traditional villages unfold along the way. Depending on your arrival time, pause in Chinchero, a village of weavers high above the valley, where Andean traditions remain part of daily life. Settle into your hotel, your home for the next three nights, and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Andes and with time to adjust to the altitude.
Salt, Earth & Ancient Wisdom
Explore some of the Sacred Valley's most intriguing landscapes. With your guide, walk among the circular terraces of Moray, then continue to the salt pans of Maras, where thousands of shimmering pools cascade down the mountainside. For those who wish, lunch can become a highlight of its own at MIL, chef Virgilio Martínez's restaurant above the terraces of Moray, where Andean ingredients and ancestral knowledge inspire each course, from the creator of Central, named The World's Best Restaurant in 2023. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.
The lost city fo the Incas Machupicchu
Set out for Ollantaytambo and board your train to Machu Picchu Pueblo, following the Urubamba River as the landscape grows ever more lush. A short bus ride brings you to the citadel. With your guide, step into one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological sites, where terraces, temples and finely worked stone unfold against dramatic mountain scenery. After your visit, return by train to the valley.
From the Sacred valley to Cusco
Leave the Sacred Valley and head towards Cusco, pausing in Pisac along the way. Explore its impressive Inca terraces, then wander through the town's artisan market, where textiles, ceramics and silver jewellery fill the colourful stalls. Take time for a cup of Andean coffee before continuing to the former capital of the Inca Empire. Arrive in Cusco for lunch at a selected local restaurant, with the afternoon free to begin discovering the city at your own pace.
Cusco, history & everyday life
Discover the many layers of Cusco, where Inca foundations, colonial architecture and contemporary Andean life meet. Begin at Sacsayhuamán, the monumental Inca citadel watching over the city, then descend to Qorikancha, the former Temple of the Sun, whose finely cut stonework still supports the colonial convent above. Climb the cobbled lanes of San Blas, the artisan quarter, where whitewashed houses, small workshops and hidden courtyards reveal the city's creative spirit. Continue to San Pedro Market, where local vendors, fresh produce and everyday rituals offer a warm, genuine encounter with the people of Cusco.
One last morning in Cusco
Enjoy a free morning to explore Cusco at your own pace, wandering its historic lanes and browsing artisan shops for handwoven textiles, alpaca pieces and silver jewellery to take home. At the agreed time, transfer to the airport or continue to your next destination.
Included / not included
INCLUDED
- Handpicked stays in Lima, the Sacred Valley and Cusco, with daily breakfast.
- Private transport and transfers throughout, including airport and train station transfers.
- Local guides who bring each place to life on every guided visit.
- A stop in Chinchero on your way into the valley, according to your arrival time.
- Guided visits to the terraces of Moray and the salt pans of Maras.
- Scenic train journey along the Urubamba River, with a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
- Round-trip bus between Machu Picchu Pueblo and the citadel.
- Guided visit to the terraces and artisan market of Pisac, followed by lunch in Cusco.
- Guided visits to Cusco's landmarks, the San Blas quarter and San Pedro Market.
- Entrance fees to the places you visit.
- Dedicated support throughout your journey from the Nayra Travel team.
NOT INCLUDED
- International and domestic flights, unless otherwise specified in your proposal.
- Meals and beverages not featured in the itinerary, including lunch at MIL.
- Optional experiences and extensions, such as a Lima city tour.
- Late check-out and additional hotel services.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities.
- Travel insurance.
HAND PICKED HOTELS
Choose a stop on the journey to see the accommodation available. Warm hospitality, elegance and an unbeatable location; if you have a place in mind that you don’t see here, we’ll book it for you anywhere in Peru.
