Peru is no longer just a destination for backpackers; it has evolved into one of the world's premier luxury travel hubs. This 11-day route is designed for those who appreciate the finer things—from Michelin-starred dining in Lima to the opulent carriages of the Belmond Andean Explorer train. You will traverse the dramatic landscapes of the Sacred Valley and the Altiplano without sacrificing comfort, staying in converted colonial palaces and eco-luxury lodges.
This journey balances cultural immersion with exclusive access. You'll avoid the crowds with private sunrise tours of ancient ruins and end your days with curated tasting menus that showcase Peru's status as a global gastronomic powerhouse. Prepare for a seamless transition from the Pacific coast to the peaks of the Andes, all while enjoying the highest standards of Peruvian hospitality.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Lima, Peru - Arrival & Gastronomic Welcome
Arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport
Your private chauffeur will meet you at the terminal for a seamless transfer to your luxury hotel in Miraflores or San Isidro. Relax as you drive through the coastal capital of Lima.
Miraflores Boardwalk Stroll
Stretch your legs along the Malecón, a clifftop park offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visit the upscale Larcomar shopping center built into the side of a cliff.
Tasting Menu at Central
Experience the world-renowned cuisine of Virgilio Martínez at Central, often voted the best restaurant in the world. Each course represents a different elevation of Peru.
Nightcap at Ayahuasca Restobar
Sip a premium Pisco Sour in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion in the bohemian Barranco district.
Day 2: Lima, Peru - Art & History of the City of Kings
Private Tour of Larco Museum
Explore the finest collection of pre-Columbian gold and silver in a stunning 18th-century vice-royal mansion built over a 7th-century pyramid.
Lunch at Astrid y Gastón
Dine in the historic Casa Moreyra, where the pioneers of modern Peruvian cuisine serve innovative dishes in a grand setting.
Historic Center Exploration
Visit the Plaza de Armas, the Convent of Santo Domingo, and the Cathedral of Lima with an expert architectural historian.
Magic Water Circuit Private Show
Enjoy a VIP viewing of the world's largest fountain complex in a public park, featuring a laser and music show.
Day 3: Sacred Valley, Peru - Flight to the Highlands
Flight to Cusco
Take a morning domestic flight from Lima to Cusco. Your private guide will meet you at the airport and immediately drive you to the lower altitude of the Sacred Valley.
Awana Kancha Living Museum
Stop to see traditional Andean weaving techniques and meet South American camelids, including llamas, alpacas, and the rare vicuña.
Gourmet Picnic in the Valley
Enjoy a luxury catered picnic lunch by the Urubamba River, featuring local organic ingredients and fine wines.
Check-in at Tambo del Inka
Settle into one of the most prestigious hotels in the valley, featuring a private train station and a world-class spa for altitude acclimation.
Day 4: Sacred Valley, Peru - Ancient Salt & Circles
Maras Salt Mines
Witness thousands of ancient salt evaporation ponds that have been in use since Incan times, creating a surreal white landscape.
Moray Agricultural Terraces
Explore the circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an Incan agricultural laboratory where different microclimates were tested.
Lunch at MIL Centro
Experience the high-altitude laboratory of Virgilio Martínez overlooking the ruins of Moray for a unique sensory lunch.
Ollantaytambo Fortress
Walk through the last living Incan town and climb the massive stone terraces of the sun temple.
Day 5: Machu Picchu, Peru - The Hiram Bingham Experience
Belmond Hiram Bingham Train
Board the legendary luxury train for a scenic journey to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy a gourmet brunch and live music on board the 1920s-style carriages.
Afternoon Machu Picchu Tour
Arrive when the morning crowds are departing. Your private guide will reveal the secrets of the Citadel of the Sun.
Tea Time at Sanctuary Lodge
Relax at the only hotel located adjacent to the ruins, enjoying tea and snacks with a view of the mountains.
Dinner at Indio Feliz
Enjoy an eclectic and upscale fusion dinner in the heart of Aguas Calientes before retiring to your luxury lodge.
Day 6: Cusco, Peru - The Imperial City
Sunrise at Machu Picchu
Return to the ruins for a quiet sunrise experience. Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate for the iconic postcard view.
Return Train to Cusco
Board the Vistadome train for the return leg, featuring panoramic windows and a fashion show of Andean textiles.
Check-in at Monasterio
Stay at the Belmond Hotel Monasterio, a former Jesuit monastery and a protected national monument.
Dinner at Cicciolina
Dine at this sophisticated attic restaurant known for its Mediterranean-Andean fusion and vibrant atmosphere.
Day 7: Cusco, Peru - Sacsayhuamán & San Blas
Sacsayhuamán Fortress
Visit the massive megalithic walls of Sacsayhuamán, where some stones weigh over 120 tons, offering a panoramic view of Cusco.
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
Explore the most important temple in the Incan Empire, whose walls were once covered in solid gold sheets.
San Blas Artisan District
Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of the artisan quarter, visiting high-end galleries and traditional workshops.
Pisco Tasting Experience
Join a private masterclass to learn the history and varieties of Peru’s national spirit.
Day 8: Altiplano, Peru - Belmond Andean Explorer
Departure for Puno
Board South America’s first luxury sleeper train. This overnight journey takes you across the high Andean plains in unparalleled style.
Gourmet Lunch on board
Savor refined Andean cuisine as the train climbs to La Raya, the highest point of the route (4,313m).
Tea Time and Cocktails
Relax in the Observation Car as the sun sets over the Altiplano landscape.
Dinner in the Dining Car
A multi-course formal dinner featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from the very regions you are traversing.
Day 9: Puno, Peru - Lake Titicaca Wonders
Arrival in Puno
Waking up on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Private Yacht to Uros Islands
Board a private vessel to visit the famous floating reed islands, where you'll meet the local families who maintain them.
Taquile Island Lunch
Enjoy a traditional lunch on Taquile Island, famous for its unique social structure and UNESCO-recognized weaving traditions.
Check-in at Titilaka Lodge
Stay at this exclusive all-inclusive boutique lodge located on a private peninsula with stunning lake views.
Day 10: Lima, Peru - Final Coastal Indulgence
Flight to Lima
Transfer to Juliaca airport for your flight back to the capital for your final night.
Lunch at Maido
Indulge in the Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) tasting menu at Maido, a consistent top-ten world ranking restaurant.
Art Shopping in Barranco
Visit Dédalo Arte y Artesanía for high-end Peruvian crafts and contemporary art to take home.
Farewell Dinner at Rafael
Celebrate your final evening at Rafael, located in a beautiful townhouse and serving sophisticated Peruvian-Italian fusion.
Day 11: Lima, Peru - Departure
Leisurely Breakfast
Enjoy a slow breakfast overlooking the Pacific Ocean before your final hours in the city.
Visit MATE Museum
Explore the Mario Testino Museum in Barranco, showcasing the work of the world-famous Peruvian fashion photographer.
Private Transfer to Airport
Your driver will escort you back to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your international departure.
Departure
Board your flight home, carrying memories of the spectacular Peruvian Andes.
Best Time to Visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru, especially for a luxury route through the Andes, is during the dry season from May to September. During these months, the skies are clear and blue, which is perfect for visiting Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. While this is the peak tourist season, a luxury itinerary utilizing private tours and high-end trains helps you bypass the crowds. The shoulder months of April and October are also excellent, offering slightly warmer temperatures and fewer travelers.
Currency & Money
The official currency of Peru is the Sol (PEN). While high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops in Lima and Cusco accept all major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard being most common), it is essential to carry some cash for tips and small purchases in traditional markets. Tipping is customary in Peru; a 10% tip is standard in restaurants, and small gratuities for private guides and drivers are highly appreciated for exceptional service.
Getting Around Peru
For a luxury traveler, the best way to navigate Peru's vast geography is through a combination of domestic flights and high-end rail. LATAM Airlines offers frequent and reliable connections between Lima, Cusco, and Juliaca. For intercity travel in the Andes, the Belmond Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer trains offer a world-class experience that turns transit into a highlight of the trip. Within cities, private chauffeur services are recommended over public transport or standard taxis for safety and convenience.