Small group luxury tour of Peru (January 2025)

The majority of flights departing from the United States touch down in Lima after 8:00 PM. Upon your arrival at the airport, a dedicated representative will be there to greet you and provide a seamless transfer to the luxurious Iberostar 5-Star hotel. The ideal location of the hotel allows guests to easily explore the neighborhood's many exceptional restaurants or go on a stroll to Mercado de Surquillo, a bustling marketplace where even the city's most celebrated chefs source their fresh ingredients. Additionally, this vibrant area boasts the largest and most captivating arts and crafts market in all of South America, offering a unique shopping experience.

Following an early morning meal, we embark on a scenic drive through the arid expanse of Peru's Southern Coastal desert. During this journey, your expedition leader will provide a comprehensive overview of Peru's history, delving into the intricacies of the Pre-Inca cultures and preparing you for an immersive exploration of the Chincha-Paracas region.

After an engaging three-hour drive, we arrive in El Carmen, a vibrant town embodying the heart and soul of Peru's Afro-Peruvian community. This group has significantly shaped Peru's identity since their arrival during the colonial era, leaving an enduring legacy in music and cuisine. We will immerse ourselves in local life by visiting a traditional home, interacting with friendly residents in the town square, trying the unique flavors of Afro-Peruvian cuisine, and experiencing the infectious energy of their music and dance.

Later, we will enjoy a delightful lunch at the historic Hacienda San Jose, a magnificent estate dating back to the seventeenth century. Once a thriving center of colonial cotton production and unfortunately, the slave trade, this architectural gem stands as a testament to the era. Its exquisite gateways, grand chambers, and intricate underground passages offer a glimpse into the past.

Following lunch, we will embark on a guided exploration of Hacienda San Jose before continuing our journey for an hour to the picturesque Paracas Bay. Our accommodations for the evening will be the charming Hotel La Hacienda, where we will conclude the day with a delectable dinner accompanied by the refreshing taste of Pisco Sours.

The next day, we will embark on a brief 20-minute drive to the Pisco airport for an extraordinary aerial adventure: an overflight of the enigmatic Nasca Lines. These awe-inspiring geoglyphs, etched into the desert landscape, have captivated the world since their discovery in 1941 by historian Paul Kosok. Created over millennia by the Paracas and Nasca civilizations, these intricate designs, including colossal animals, geometric shapes, and human figures, remain a subject of fascination and speculation. Our 90-minute flight will offer breathtaking views of these iconic landmarks, culminating in a glimpse of the enigmatic "astronaut" figure.

After this unforgettable experience, we will journey to the Julio C Tello museum to delve deeper into the world of the Paracas people. Renowned for their advanced medical practices, unparalleled textile artistry, and sophisticated engineering, the Paracas laid the foundation for subsequent civilizations. The museum showcases their remarkable achievements in pottery, mummification, and water management.

Our afternoon continues at the historic Tacama vineyard and factory, the oldest in the Americas. Here, we will uncover the secrets of Pisco production in a stunning setting. A delightful lunch, accompanied by a captivating horse show and a sampling of Pisco and wine, will conclude our day.

Returning to the hotel, we will have the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate before enjoying a coastal evening.

Our day starts with a two-hour speedboat adventure to the Ballestas Islands, a pristine haven nestled within the Paracas National Reserve. This coastal sanctuary teems with an extraordinary diversity of avian life, including several endangered and threatened species. As we navigate the waters, we will keep a keen eye out for a captivating array of wildlife, such as Red-legged Cormorants, Guanay Cormorants, Peruvian Pelicans, Band-tailed Gulls, Inca Terns, Humboldt Penguins, Otters, and South American Sea Lions. Under the clear blue sky, this natural spectacle offers unparalleled photographic opportunities.

Returning to the mainland, we will make our way to Pachacamac, arriving in time for a leisurely lunch at Hacienda Los Ficus. Surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, we will savor the authentic flavors of Peru.

After lunch, we embark on a short four-mile journey to the ancient ruins of Pachacamac, a revered site of both Pre-Inca and Inca civilizations. This sprawling adobe citadel served as a powerful oracle center for the Pre-Inca people and later flourished as a major commercial and administrative hub under Inca rule. We will explore the impressive remains of this sacred city and delve into its history through a visit to the state-of-the-art site museum. Our final leg of the journey brings us back to Lima after approximately one hour of travel.

The next day, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of a local market, renowned for its abundant and diverse offerings. While not situated directly on the coast, the market provides a captivating showcase of local treasures.

Our culinary journey continues at the enchanting Ayahuasca Resto Bar, housed within a meticulously restored late 19th-century mansion. This award-winning establishment offers an unparalleled opportunity to savor the rich tapestry of Peruvian cuisine.

Following this gastronomic experience, you will have the freedom to explore the city. Whether you are drawn to the vibrant Handicraft Market, the charming streets of Miraflores, or the luxurious LarcoMar shopping mall with its breathtaking coastal vistas and exclusive boutiques specializing in Alpaca and Vicuna textiles, the city's dynamic energy awaits.

Our final evening in Lima will be an unforgettable experience at Huaca Pucllana. As we dine amidst the captivating ambiance of this illuminated pre-Inca temple, we bid farewell to the enchanting "City of Kings."

Our journey commences with a morning flight from Lima to Chiclayo, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, culminating in the imposing Huascaran peak. Upon arrival, we will check into the luxurious Casa Andina Select hotel and have lunch.

In the afternoon, we explore the Tucume complex, an extraordinary ensemble of 26 pyramids nestled within the ecologically fragile Equatorial Dry Forest. This pre-Inca marvel offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of Northern Peru. We will wander through the ancient structures, gaining insights into the lives of these early civilizations, and visit the informative site museum.

Our day finishes with a visit to the charming Horcones Hotel and Restaurant, where we will witness the art of Pachamanca cooking. This ancient culinary tradition, involving the cooking of food in an underground earthen oven, promises a truly unforgettable experience. Amidst stunning photographic opportunities, we will eat the fruits of this culinary endeavor.

The next day, we start with an early morning drive to the Pomac Forest, a pristine haven renowned for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities and remarkably preserved patches of Equatorial Dry Forest. Amidst this natural treasure trove, we will encounter the remnants of the Sican civilization, whose pyramid-dotted landscape bears witness to a rich historical legacy. Discovered in 1978 by Japanese archaeologist Izumi Shimada, Pomac unveiled its extraordinary secrets in 1992 with the unearthed tomb of a Sican elite, yielding an astonishing hoard of gold and precious artifacts now housed in the National Sican Museum.

Upon arrival, we will go on a birdwatching expedition in search of elusive endemics such as the endangered Peruvian Platcutter, Long-tailed Mockingbird, Fasciated Wren, and the delicate Amazilia Hummingbird. Followed with a local life experience, engaging with the community and exploring the artistry of local crafts. A panoramic viewpoint will offer breathtaking vistas of the ancient pyramids, providing great opportunities for photography.

Returning to Chiclayo, we will visit the acclaimed Fiesta Restaurant, celebrated as one of Latin America's finest dining establishments. Renowned for its exceptional ceviche, this gastronomic experience is not to be missed.

The in afternoon  we will visit the extraordinary Lord of Sipan Museum, a testament to the unparalleled archaeological riches of the region. This world-class museum showcases the breathtaking artifacts unearthed from the tomb of the Lord of Sipan, a discovery often compared to the legendary treasures of Tutankhamun.

Our day concludes with a vibrant celebration of Northern Peruvian culture at a traditional restaurant. Immersed in the infectious rhythms and energetic dances of a "Pena Nortena," we will savor the authentic spirit of the region.

After breakfast, we embark on a two-hour drive to the renowned Chaparri Reserve, a community-led conservation initiative in Peru. En route, we will make a stop at Tinajones reservoir, a haven for birdwatchers seeking to spot Great Grebe, Black-faced Ibis, Chilean Flamingo, and various wading birds.

Upon arriving at Chaparri, we will check in, have lunch, and meet the dedicated local rangers who steward this remarkable reserve. Chaparri stands as a testament to the power of community conservation, encompassing an expansive 38,412 hectares of diverse ecosystems, ranging from semi-desert to lowland forests. This rich tapestry of habitats supports an extraordinary array of wildlife, including 21 mammal species and an astonishing 126 bird species, with a remarkable 46 of these being endemic to the region. Notably, Chaparri is home to the elusive White-winged Guan, once believed extinct but now thriving within its borders.

The reserve also serves as a sanctuary for rescued wildlife, most notably the Spectacled Bear Rescue Center, Peru's first dedicated facility for this iconic species. Visitors have the unique opportunity to observe rescued bears in spacious, semi-natural enclosures, and witness the inspiring journey of rehabilitation and potential release into the wild.

In the afternoon, we go on a hike along the Huachuma trail, immersing ourselves in the diverse flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. This trail offers an excellent chance to encounter endemic bird species, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, as well as the possibility of a memorable encounter with the Spectacled Bear.

After dinner, we will go on a night birding adventure along the main track, seeking out elusive nocturnal creatures such as the Scrub Nightjar, Pacific Pygmy-Owl, and West Peruvian Screech-Owl, while exploring the fascinating world of endemic insects.

Our day begins with a serene observation of hummingbirds as they bathe in the nearby stream. After breakfast, we will venture into the surrounding area on a wildlife-focused hike, returning to the lodge for lunch. 

In the afternoon, we will commence our journey back to Chiclayo, making stops along the way to enjoy birdwatching and capture breathtaking panoramic vistas.

Today, we embark on a southward journey towards Trujillo. Our lunch stop will be in the picturesque coastal town of Pacasmayo, known as one of the world's premier surfing destinations. Continuing our journey through the arid desert landscape and fertile valleys, we will arrive at Cao, the site of a groundbreaking archaeological discovery. Here, we will explore the ancient ruins and visit the world-class museum dedicated to the Lady of Cao, the first female ruler ever identified in the region. Her remarkable tomb, unearthed in 2006, revolutionized our understanding of the Moche civilization. Our final destination for the day is the historic city of Trujillo, a colonial gem and the gateway to Pizarro's conquest. We will check into the luxurious Double Tree by Hilton hotel and enjoy dinner.

Next day, we will visit Chan Chan, the awe-inspiring mud citadel often referred to as the "Machu Picchu of the North." This sprawling metropolis, once the heart of the Chimu Kingdom, covered an expansive area and was home to over 100,000 inhabitants who resisted Inca domination. We will delve into the intricate network of houses, warehouses, streets, walls, and pyramidal temples, adorned with exquisite motifs of geometric patterns, stylized animals, and mythical creatures. Our visit will conclude at the remarkable Palace Nik-An and the Huaca Arcoiris.

Continuing our journey, we will arrive at Huanchaco beach, where a culinary adventure awaits. At a renowned beachfront restaurant, we will participate in a hands-on cooking class, mastering the art of preparing ceviche and the iconic Pisco Sour while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.

After a delicious lunch, we will venture onto the beach to meet the local fishermen and their distinctive Caballitos de Totora, reed boats with a 4,000-year-old history. Considered the precursor to modern surfing, these vessels offer a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of riding the waves.

Returning to the hotel to freshen up, we will go on a photographic exploration of Trujillo's captivating colonial center, enhanced by a special surprise. Our evening culminates in a sophisticated dinner at the exclusive Club Central, a century-old gathering place for Trujillo's elite, housed within the magnificent Iturregui Palace.

Our day begins with an exploration of the awe-inspiring Temples of the Sun and the Moon, remnants of the ancient Mochica capital. Before delving into these sacred sites, we will visit the Moche Huacas museum, housed in a building that mirrors the architectural brilliance of the Mochica people.

Our next stop, the Huaca de la Luna, or Pyramid of the Moon, is a breathtaking testament to human ingenuity. Its vast expanse of polychrome murals, covering an astonishing 12,000 square meters, showcases the unparalleled mastery of Moche construction techniques. This architectural marvel stands as a unique and irreplaceable example of human creativity, reflecting the intricate interplay between religion and political power within the Moche society.

Following this extraordinary experience, we will have lunch featuring contemporary Peruvian cuisine before embarking on our return flight to Lima, marking the conclusion of our unforgettable journey.