Peru (Amazon River & Colca Canyon) with Luxury & Style (10 Days): Sample Itinerary Outline
ID #: DT-P-10-9-13-10-BESI
Day 1: Lima, PERU
This evening, arrive in Lima, where you are met and transferred to
your luxury hotel. Founded in 1535 by Spanish conquistador Francisco
Pizarro, the “City of Kings” is an intriguing mélange of elegant
colonial structures, pre-Columbian sites, and modern conveniences.
This evening, you overnight in one of the city’s loveliest
neighborhoods.
►Some suggested Lima hotels (in alphabetical order): Country Club Lima Hotel (V) Miraflores Park Hotel (V) Titilaka (V)
►Together, we will find the best choice for you!
Days 2-5: Lima / Iquitos / Amazon, PERU
Fly to Iquitos this afternoon. Enjoy a scenic drive through the lush
Peruvian countryside to the village of Nauta, your jumping-off point
for your Amazon River voyage. Board MV ‘Aqua,’ the most luxurious
cruiser to explore the Amazon River. After a safety drill and
briefing, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow adventurers. Over
the next five days, sail several tributaries of the Amazon
(including the Pacaya and Ucayali Rivers) and the mighty river
itself, and explore a world rarely seen by the ordinary traveller.
The largest river by volume in the world, the Amazon remains
singularly untamed: no bridge has ever been built to span it, and
the Amazon Rainforest accounts for more than a third of the world’s
entire biodiversity. Sights and specific routes depend on whether
you visit during high-water or low-water season, but expect plenty
of wildlife sightings from ‘Aqua’s’ skiffs and informative guided
walks and excursions on land. Spot a myriad of rare fauna — such as
three- toed sloth, iguana, monkey and macaw — as well as a variety
of flora, including fruit trees and medicinal plants. During stops
in native villages such as Hatum Posa, meet native Amazonians
carving a living from fishing or subsistence farming, and learn how
they cultivate wild plants to earn farm income. Take a pole and bait
to some of the world’s most fish-rich rivers and catch some of the
3,000-plus species of fish, including tropical species and piranha.
Throughout your journey, enjoy gourmet meals designed by acclaimed
Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. On your last evening, enjoy a
special farewell dinner on board and toast your jungle adventure
with the other passengers and crew. MV 'Aqua'
Day 6: Amazon / Iquitos / Lima, PERU
Disembark in Iquitos and enjoy a city tour and a visit to the
Manatee Rescue Center. Fly to Lima this evening and overnight in the
capital. The remainder of your evening is at leisure.
►For Lima hotel suggestions, see above.
Day 7: Lima / Arequipa / Colca Valley, PERU
This morning, board a flight to Arequipa, often referred to as “The
White City” after the pearly volcanic rock used to build many of its
colonial Spanish churches and homes. Upon your arrival, you are met
and transferred to the Colca Valley. The valley is located about a
five-hour drive from Arequipa, and the journey by private vehicle
reveals southern Peru’s striking panoramas of imposing mountains
standing guard over verdant valleys. Local geologists claim that
Colca is the world’s deepest canyon, with chasms that measure up to
11,000 feet from top to bottom. In the valley, spot ancestral
farming terraces, still cultivated by the native Collaguas.
►Suggested hotel: Las Casitas del Colca (V)
Day 8: Colca Valley, PERU
Early this morning, meet your guide and depart for the Condor Cross
in Colca Canyon. At the Condor Cross, witness these rare,
magnificent birds — some with wingspans of over 10 feet — as they
take flight by plunging from the canyon walls to hang-glide in
circular formation through the air. Marvel at the canyon’s depth and
beauty. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the many
activities offered by your luxury lodge, which include fishing,
horseback riding, cycling and scenic walks around the spectacular
Colca Valley during the day, and stargazing at night. You may also
choose to learn how to cook Peruvian fare using regional ingredients
such as quinoa, or to visit the on-site vegetable garden, which
provides seasonal produce for the lodge’s restaurant.
►Suggested hotel: Las Casitas del Colca (V)
Day 9: Colca Valley / Arequipa / Lima, PERU
This morning, take a last opportunity to experience the unique
activities offered by your luxury lodge or contemplate the
breathtaking Colca Valley surroundings. In the afternoon, transfer
back to Arequipa airport for your return domestic flight to Lima.
When you arrive in Lima airport this evening, a representative meets
and assists you with your overnight international departure flight.