The Ultimate Peruvian Odyssey: From the Deep Jungle to the Heart of the Inca Empire 18d/17n - Tour

The expedition begins with your arrival in Iquitos - the colourful gateway into the Peruvian Amazon. After being greeted at the airport and enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, you will be transported to the port to board the Aqua Nera. Once on board and settled into your spacious suite with expansive views, you will meet your specialist naturalist guide and the rest of the crew over a welcome cocktail as the vessel slips effortlessly into the magnificence of the jungle.

The first day begins with your navigation of the Ucayali River. Your expert guide will take you aboard a skiff along the black-water Yanayacu Yacapana River to observe tropical birds and sloths. The morning includes exciting piranha fishing using local methods. In the afternoon, we continue our exploration on the Yarapa River, including a night excursion in search of the fascinating wildlife that comes out after sunset, such as caimans, and tree frogs.

You will begin the day early, exploring the remote and peaceful Clavero Lake. Here you will have the opportunity to swim in the tranquil waters, or have the opportunity to visit a local community, where your guide will explain respectful and authentic social engagements, so that you will understand their way of life. In the afternoon, we continue our navigation on the Marañón River, which is a great chance for your guide to assist you in locating the diverse fauna that resides in the ecosystem, while also teaching you about the mighty Amazon tributary.

Today, we’ll have a cultural adventure. We will start by visiting the local market of Nauta, which is an authentic experience into the commercial and exotic elements of the Amazon. In the afternoon, we will meet with a group of local artisans to learn about the ancestral art of palm weaving. Later, guided by your specialist guide, you will take a skiff ride to the exact point where the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers becomes the magnificent Amazon.

The adventure continues into the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. In the morning, you will do some birdwatching at sunrise and visit an Amazonian community for an "Aguaje" palm harvesting experience. After lunch, you will have the option to swim in or kayak on the Yanayacu Pucate River, the best place to look for the famous pink river dolphins. Finally, you will end the day reflecting on Amazonian spirituality with some time spent with a local Chaman.

Today is a full day of exploration, working our way up the remote and pristine Samiria River, which is one of the most important tributaries in the reserve. Your certified naturalist guide will lead you on this topic and even provide a picnic lunch in the middle of the jungle! You'll also have the opportunity of fishing, swimming, kayaking, or nature walking to explore a whole route of immersion in the reserve so you can appreciate the biodiversity of the reserve at its purest and wildest state.

On your last full day in the jungle, you will have the opportunity of seeing the jungle with a new lens. You will head out on a jungle walk, learning about the medicinal plants and insects about your own wellbeing as your guide describes the different ecosystems in the rainforest. If you'd like, there is also an option for a bike ride along the riverbank if you prefer. In the afternoon, you will head out onto the black waters of the Nauta Caño River looking for even more wildlife before concluding your day and enjoying a farewell dinner.

In the morning, you will visit the exciting floating market of Belen, an exciting cultural experience. After breakfast, you will disembark, and on your way to the airport, you will visit the Manatee Rescue Center. You will then continue on your flight to Lima, where you will be welcomed and transferred to your luxury hotel for rest, starting the second part of the amazing expedition.

This is a day dedicated to discovery in the capital of Peru. With your private guide, you will enjoy a tour that highlights the contrasts of the refined nature of the historic center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the modern districts of Miraflores and Barranco. You will visit the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral, and the San Francisco Convent, exploring the marvels of Peru's history in this amazing city.

In the morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, for optimal acclimatization, you will be driven directly to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The lower altitude and gentle environment make it the perfect place to acclimatize properly. After checking into your luxury hotel, you will have the afternoon free to enjoy a restful afternoon.

Today, your private guide will take you on a journey through the Sacred Valley. Your first stop is the beautiful ruins of Pisaq with the spectacular agricultural terraces. After, you will then experience the excitement of the famous Pisaq craft market. The rest of the afternoon is for enjoying the tranquility of your hotel and surroundings in the valley.

You will continue your exploration of the valley. You will visit the mysterious circular terraces of Moray, a possible Incan agricultural research station, and the salt pans of Maras with thousands of salt pools still harvested today provisions from pre-Incans. Your day will finish with a visit to the striking Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo an ancient wonder of military engineering, before spending your final night in the valley.

After a contemplative morning, you'll be driven to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board a scenic train for the exciting train ride to Aguas Calientes, which is located at the foot of Machu Picchu. When you arrive, someone will be there to help you reach your hotel. The afternoon is free to contemplate the visit to the citadel and relax.

The most anticipated day is finally here. In the morning, you'll make the ascent to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. As you spend some time exploring this World Heritage Site with your specialist guide, you will be treated to its construction, history, and spiritual significance. In the afternoon, you will return via train, assisted by vehicle, to your hotel in Cusco.

Today, you will experience Cusco's history. Your guide will take you on a walking tour that includes the Plaza de Armas, the grand Cathedral, and the Qorikancha (the Temple of the Sun). The conclusion will be at the magnificent Inca military architecture fortress of Sacsayhuamán.

You have a free full day in the fascinating and historic city of Cusco. Spend your day enjoying time in your favorite spots, browsing new art galleries in San Blas, or simply sitting in a Plaza de Armas café, taking in the world around you.

The freedom of a flexible day arrives on your last full day in the Andes. You can have a restful day for last-minute opportunities, or your guide can propose a fun culinary option, such as a Peruvian cooking class or excursion to a lesser-known archaeological site in the immediate portion of the city, allowing for personalized interests and a memorable day.

At the appropriate time, a guide will meet you for your transportation to the Cusco airport for your return flight home, leaving the beauty and experiences of Peru in your heart to contemplate long after.