A land of contrasts, flavours and history set in a magnificent environment, there is a truly magical quality to Peru. Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of Cusco, marvelling at the landscapes of the Sacred Valley and getting swept away by the Nikkei-fueled bustle of Lima. Choose one of our guided tours to discover this richly nuanced country! This way, you can enjoy each experience thoroughly, delve into the traditions, all without worrying about practical matters.
Along with my colleague Marie-Christine, I was lucky enough to test our Magical Peru tour, accompanied by passionate guides. Join us for a taste of the Magical Peru!
Our guided Peru tour: Magical Peru highlights
Please note that itineraries and visits may vary according to several factors, such as seasonality.
- 9 nights, 7 days
- Round-trip Economy Class flight
- Transportation by bus and train
- 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches included
- Private guide along the way
- Bilingual English-French
- Departures from Montreal and Toronto
- 12 years old and over
- Themes: culture, architecture and nature
- Moderate pace, not recommended for people with restricted mobility
Lima, City of Kings
The journey begins in the vibrant capital. In Lima, echoes of the past are interwoven with a renowned culinary scene and a myriad of enriching experiences. The hip Miraflores district is particularly charming, with its many parks and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Particularly from rooftop pools!
In the Plaza de Armas and the Convent of Santo Domingo, colonial architecture takes us to the days when Lima was a key player in the Spanish Empire. On the other hand, the archaeological site of Huaca Pucllana transports us over 1300 years back in time to the pre-Inca era.
Our heart goes out to the Larco Museum, a fairly overlooked gem. It houses the world’s largest private collection of ancient Peruvian relics. Surrounded by magnificent bougainvillea gardens, over 45,000 works and objects shed light on five millennia of Peruvian history.
Last but not least, we seize the opportunity of being in the gastronomic capital of South America to discover some of its finest establishments. The mere memory of their ceviches, seafood and pisco sours makes our mouth water!
The Sacred Valley’s secrets
The adventure continues in the lush setting of the Sacred Valley. We pass through the picturesque town of Chinchero, which surrounds a 15th century Inca archaeological centre. A local family introduces us to ancestral weaving techniques, an art that has coloured Andean life for generations.
At the Racchi viewpoint, a roadside stop offers a breathtaking panorama of the mountainsides. For dinner, the traditional flavours of a local restaurant delight us with an authentic taste of Peru.
We also discover Ollantaytambo, said to be the only living Inca city. A unique testimony to the urban planning of this civilisation, its stone-paved streets and rural charm are a treat for the eyes and soul.
Machu Picchu, the treasure of the Andes
Machu Picchu stands out as the pinnacle of the Magical Peru Tour. At the end of the ascent, the ancient Inca city appears shrouded in mist, casting a mystical aura. Perched between mountain ridges, the mythical site was built to reflect the laws of nature. To this day it blends harmoniously into the spectacular landscape. There is no better place to learn about the beliefs and customs of the Incas, while experiencing their deep connection with their environment.
A masterpiece that defies time and erosion, it certainly deserves its place among the 7 Wonders of the Modern World.
Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Peru’s imperial city is an immersion in history and culture. Nestled in the Andes, it is a masterful contrast of natural beauty and human experience. We are enchanted from the moment we set foot in its narrow, bucolic streets lined with stone buildings.
At the San Pedro market, colorful fruits mingle with the aroma of local spices, multicolored corn and endless varieties of potatoes. This is where everyday life in Cusco unfolds, with stalls full of traditional products.
We explore the fascinating temple of Coricancha: initially an Inca palace dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, it was looted, profaned and converted into a monastery when the Spaniards arrived. Its finely carved stone walls demonstrate the amazing precision of Inca architecture. The glorious rose gardens are home to sacred Inca animals embedded in the grass.
Meanwhile, the monumental fortress of Sacsayhuaman is a tribute to the genius of Inca military architecture. The huge blocks of stone, perfectly fitted together without mortar, defy modern explanation. From its heights, the panorama of Cusco is breathtaking. Finally, we visit the archaeological site of Q’enqo, famous for its secret chambers where important ceremonies were held.
