NINE-DAYEXPLORER
A thoughtfully planned journey through Peru's most iconic destinations, designed for travelers seeking genuine comfort, authentic culture, and seamless logistics.
5 Destinations
LimaArequipaSacred ValleyMachu PicchuCusco
Starting From
+$700 single occupancy
Interactive Journey Route
This route connects five primary destinations from coastal Lima through Arequipa, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Domestic flights, private ground transportation, and panoramic rail service connect the major stages of the journey.
Lima
Pacific Coast
Pacific coastal arrival, private airport greeting, and culinary exploration along the Miraflores cliffs.
Scheduled commercial flight ascending southeast over the coastal cordillera to Arequipa.
Elevation Progression & Pacing
The route progresses from sea-level Lima to intermediate-elevation Arequipa, followed by Cusco and the lower Sacred Valley, with thoughtful pacing considerations incorporated throughout the journey.
Expedition Sequence
7 Coordinated StagesComplete Transportation Sequence
Every leg between destinations is coordinated through scheduled domestic air, private vehicles, and panoramic rail.
Lima → Arequipa
Scheduled commercial flight south from coastal Lima to the White City.
Arequipa → Cusco
Scheduled domestic flight ascending over the Andes to the Inca Capital.
Cusco → Sacred Valley
Private ground transfer descending into the lower, oxygen-rich valley.
Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu
Observation-window rail voyage tracing the roaring Urubamba River gorge.
Machu Picchu → Cusco
Scenic return train followed by private transfer back to historic Cusco.
Cusco → Lima
Scheduled domestic flight connecting back to Lima for homeward flights.
Every transition in this 9-day route is managed with dedicated private vehicle transfers for airport arrivals, hotel departures, and valley exploration. Scheduled domestic flights and panoramic rail services operate with pre-reserved tickets and on-the-ground support from our Peru-based team.
Tour Overview
Spanning 9 days and 8 nights, this journey introduces travelers to five distinct regions: Lima, Arequipa, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Starting from $4,495 per person, the route takes you naturally from Pacific coastal waters to colonial volcanic stone, fertile Andean valleys, and the breathtaking heights of the Andes mountains.
“A complete journey across Peru: experience the beauty of coastal shores, historic colonial cities, fertile valleys, and majestic Andean peaks.”
Lima • Arequipa • Sacred Valley • Machu Picchu • CuscoCarefully paced route across five destinations
Per person based on double occupancy
Lima • Arequipa • Sacred Valley • Machu Picchu • Cusco
Connecting coastal, colonial-highland, valley & high-Andes terrain
Itinerary
Experience Peru through a thoughtfully paced journey with attentive personal care. Every transfer, altitude step, and privately guided excursion is carefully planned for your comfort and peace of mind.
Welcome to Peru
Private airport welcome, Miraflores transfer, relaxed arrival evening.
Complete Day-by-Day Overview
Click any day to view details above
Welcome to Peru
Private airport welcome, Miraflores transfer, relaxed arrival evening.
Culture & Cuisine
Discover Lima's history, culture and celebrated cuisine with a privately guided experience.
The White City
Fly to Arequipa, relaxed afternoon in Arequipa.
Culture & Flavor
Santa Catalina, sillar architecture, regional cuisine.
Into the Inca Heartland
Fly to Cusco, descend to Sacred Valley.
Moray, Maras & Ollantaytambo
Moray, Maras & Ollantaytambo.
The Lost City of the Incas
Panoramic train, guided visit, overnight in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Imperial Legacy
Return panoramic train, historic center, farewell dinner.
Until Next Time
Breakfast, private transfer to Cusco airport, domestic flight to Lima, and connection for onward international travel.
Ready to tailor this route to your schedule?
Small group and private custom itineraries designed with English-speaking guides and thoughtful travel support.
Accommodations
Our journeys feature carefully selected 4- and 5-star hotels. Properties are selected with consideration for comfort, location, traveler experience, and the operational requirements of the itinerary. Final accommodations are confirmed according to availability and the specific departure.
Lima
Arrival & Coastal Gateway
Carefully selected 4- or 5-star hotel in a premier coastal neighborhood, offering exceptional comfort, fine dining, and seamless airport connectivity.
Arequipa
White City Stay
Charming boutique hotel built with traditional sillar stone, providing tranquil courtyards, refined hospitality, and convenient walking access to historic squares.
Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley Retreat
Serene sub-Andean valley retreat with lush gardens, stunning mountain backdrops, and peaceful accommodations ideal for rest and relaxation between included experiences.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Pueblo Stay
Inviting cloud-forest riverside lodge situated within easy walking distance of the train station and the shuttle departure to the citadel.
Cusco
Historic Cusco Stay
Elegant heritage hotel near the historic city center, blending historic architecture with modern comforts, attentive hospitality, and dedicated guest services.
Our Selection Criteria
Comfort & Hospitality
Properties are selected with consideration for comfort, location, traveler experience, and the operational requirements of the itinerary. Final accommodations are confirmed according to availability and the specific departure.
Transportation
Transportation included in your journey
Lima – Arequipa
Arequipa – Cusco
Cusco – Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu
Return: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Cusco – Lima
Meals & Experiences
Meals & Experiences
Daily breakfast is provided throughout the tour, along with select meals and guided cultural experiences specifically identified in the confirmed itinerary.
Daily Breakfasts
Full breakfast served every morning at your accommodations throughout the itinerary.
Culinary Experiences
A farewell dinner and select meals specifically identified in the itinerary, spotlighting authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Cultural Activities
Guided local heritage visits and cultural experiences specifically included in the itinerary.
Dietary Requirements & Activity Adjustments
Please advise us of dietary preferences or restrictions before departure. We will communicate requests to applicable hotels and restaurants, although specific accommodations cannot always be guaranteed.
What's Included
The following services, accommodations, transfers, and guided experiences are included in your 9-Day Explorer package. Services included in the confirmed itinerary are coordinated as part of your 9-Day Explorer journey.
Accommodations
4- & 5-Star Selection
Selected 4- & 5-Star Accommodations
Carefully selected 4- and 5-star accommodations throughout the itinerary.
Boutique & Historic Stays
Handpicked boutique hotels offering guest comfort, authentic character, and prime locations.
Transportation & Flights
Air, Rail & Private Road
Domestic Flights & Air Travel
All domestic flights required by the confirmed 9-Day Explorer itinerary are included: Lima–Arequipa, Arequipa–Cusco, and Cusco–Lima.
Private Ground Transportation
Private ground transportation and airport transfers.
Scenic Train to Machu Picchu
Scenic panoramic rail transportation to and from Aguas Calientes for the Machu Picchu journey.
Activities & Permits
Included Admissions & Experiences
Machu Picchu Entry
Machu Picchu entry, subject to availability and applicable visitor capacity controls.
Sacred Valley & Archaeological Passes
Entrance tickets and permits required for included scheduled activities in the Sacred Valley.
Guides & Operational Support
Local Guides & Travel Support
Privately Guided Machu Picchu
Dedicated, privately guided Machu Picchu experience tailored to your party's pace and interests.
Professional Local Guides
Qualified English-speaking local guides for guided experiences included in the itinerary.
Beyond Peru Travel Coordination
End-to-end trip coordination, route oversight, and ongoing traveler support.
Meals & Dining
Curated Dining
Daily Breakfast
Full breakfast provided daily at each hotel throughout your 9-day journey.
Featured Itinerary Meals
Select meals and culinary experiences specifically identified in the confirmed itinerary.
All items listed above are standard inclusions in your 9-Day Explorer booking. Confirmed tour inclusions are clearly outlined before departure, while personal expenses and optional services remain separate.
What's Not Included
The following items, services, and personal expenses are not included in the standard 9-Day Explorer tour price.
Standard Package Exclusions
The tour price excludes international airfare to and from Peru, comprehensive travel insurance, meals not specifically identified as included in the itinerary, personal expenses, optional activities or upgrades not in the itinerary, and gratuities.
Optional Upgrades & Add-Ons
Premium hotel upgrades and private transport services can be arranged as custom enhancements and are billed separately from the base tour package.
Personal Expenses & Gratuities
Discretionary personal expenses including souvenirs, laundry, alcoholic beverages, unlisted snacks, and gratuities for guides and drivers are handled directly by each traveler.
Travel Documents & Requirements
Travelers are responsible for ensuring they meet the passport, visa, health, and entry requirements applicable to their nationality and travel dates. Requirements can change, so travelers should verify current requirements before departure.
Questions about inclusions or custom logistical requests for this 9-Day Explorer tour?
Altitude & Acclimatization
The 9-Day Explorer traverses Peru’s varied topography—from the Pacific coast at sea level up to the Andean heights of Cusco. Because this itinerary transitions across multiple elevation thresholds, it is designed with thoughtful pacing considerations across changing elevations.
Lima
Arrival at coastal elevation with time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.
Arequipa
Gradual elevation gain surrounded by volcanic peaks, allowing time to adjust.
Cusco & Sacred Valley
Highest elevation point on the route, featuring built-in pacing and rest intervals.
Machu Picchu
Descent into the subtropical citadel offering easier breathing conditions.
Traveler Guidance
Remember to stay well hydrated, pace yourself during walks and daytime excursions, and take advantage of built-in rest periods. Because elevation affects each traveler differently, we encourage you to consult a qualified healthcare professional before departure regarding any individual medical concerns or personal health questions.
Activity Level & Traveler Preparation
Essential activity guidelines, packing recommendations, and wellness advisories to help you prepare thoroughly and travel with confidence on your 9-Day Explorer.
Physical Activity Level
Daily itineraries include walking through colonial historic centers, navigating uneven archaeological ruins, and climbing ancient stone stairways at elevation. All walking segments are conducted at an unhurried, manageable pace with regular pauses.
Packing Guidance
Bring comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or trail runners with solid grip, breathable layered clothing for fluctuating Andean temperatures, a warm fleece or down jacket, and sun protection including a wide-brim hat, UV sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Fitness Recommendations
No rigid physical standards or athletic training regimens are required for this journey. A standard level of reasonable mobility—feeling comfortable walking several miles intermittently throughout the day and managing steps—is all you need.
Health Precautions
Stay well-hydrated, pace yourself intentionally, and allow additional time for rest and physical activity at higher elevations. We encourage all travelers with preexisting medical conditions or specific questions to consult a healthcare professional before departure.
Preparation Notice
Please review our packing list and preparation guidelines well before departure. If you have questions regarding mobility, terrain, or packing choices, our team is available to assist.
Private & Small-Group Travel
Reserve the 9-Day Explorer according to your travel style. Join a scheduled small group departure, or secure a private departure customized to your companions and schedule.
9-Day Explorer: Small-Group Departures
Small-group departure dates available upon inquiry
Join a shared tour with an intimate group size. Enjoy coordinated logistics from Lima into the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco, with high guide-to-guest ratios and thoughtfully coordinated pacing.
Pacing & Dynamics: Thoughtfully paced itinerary with gradual altitude transitions and rest opportunities.
Format Inclusions on this Route
- Scheduled departures with small-group travel dynamics
- Full 9-day itinerary with all scheduled entrance permits & rail tickets
- Dedicated local support throughout your journey
- Direct group camaraderie with fellow travelers
- Group Capacity
- Small-group intimate party
- Departure Dates
- Departure dates available upon inquiry.
- Tour Guide
- Qualified English-speaking local guides for guided experiences included in the itinerary.
- Ground Transport
- Private group ground transportation
Direct local coordination across Lima, Sacred Valley & Cusco.
9-Day Explorer Format Comparison
| Specification | Small-Group | Private Departure |
|---|---|---|
| Party Size | Intimate small-group party | Exclusive to your party only |
| Departure Timing | Departure dates available upon inquiry. | Your choice of start date |
| Transportation | Shared group transportation | Private vehicle & driver |
| Pacing & Stops | Set itinerary timing & excursions | Flexible start times & personalized tempo |
| Route Customization | Structured 9-day route plan | Fully adaptable with optional extensions |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are clear, direct answers to common questions about what is included, altitude considerations, accommodations, and daily logistics on this 9-Day Explorer journey.
What is included in the 9-Day Explorer?
Your journey includes carefully selected 4- and 5-star accommodations, private ground transportation, scenic tourist train tickets, Machu Picchu entry, subject to availability and applicable visitor capacity controls, qualified English-speaking local guides for guided experiences included in the itinerary, and daily breakfast.
How should I prepare for altitude?
Our itinerary uses a thoughtfully paced elevation progression, traveling down to the lower Sacred Valley early on to allow time to adjust before Cusco. We recommend drinking plenty of water, resting upon arrival, and consulting your healthcare professional about high-altitude travel before departure.
Is this tour available as a private departure?
Yes, absolutely. In addition to our small-group departures, we can arrange this entire 9-day itinerary as a completely private journey tailored to your preferred travel dates, pace, and personal schedule.
What accommodations are used?
We stay in carefully selected 4- and 5-star hotels chosen for comfort, service quality, and prime locations. Final properties are confirmed based on availability and your specific travel dates.
Are domestic flights included?
Yes. Domestic flights required by the confirmed 9-Day Explorer itinerary are included.
What should I pack?
We recommend sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or light trail shoes, breathable layered clothing for shifting daytime and evening temperatures, light rain protection, and reliable sun protection including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat.
Have more questions about this 9-Day Explorer?
We are always happy to help tailor your trip or answer specific questions. Contact our Peru-based team to discuss your questions and begin planning your personalized journey.
Pricing & Booking
Secure your departure dates for a thoughtfully paced small-group or private journey, designed with dedicated local support across Peru.
Pricing is based on double occupancy.
Private room arrangement throughout Peru
25% Deposit
Due at booking to begin securing the travel arrangements required for your selected departure.
Remaining Balance
Remaining balance due 90 days before departure.
Minimum Group Size: Scheduled departures require a minimum of 4 paying travelers. Departure status is determined 90 days before departure. Private and custom journeys may have different requirements. See Booking Terms.
Book Now — 25% DepositPay in FullFinal balances are due 90 days before departure. Travelers who pay a deposit will receive a secure payment link for their remaining balance.
What's included in your journey
Private transportation and coordinated transfers from initial airport pickup to final departure, structured for peace of mind.
- Qualified English-speaking local guides for guided experiences included in the itinerary.
- Curated hotels and airport transfers in Peru
- Full logistics for Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley
- Dedicated support from our Peru-based team throughout your journey.
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Personally overseen with a safety-focused approach in Peru
For rebooking and cancellation terms, please review our Terms & Conditions and Refund & Cancellation Policy.
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