Southern Cross Peruvian tour

Southern Cross Peruvian tour
Join us on this escape to the magic of Peru in this small group (10 max) hosted tour.
Duration: 12 days / 11 Nights
Destinations: Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Titicaca Lake, Cusco & Machu Picchu
Departure: Saturday August 15, 2015
Price: US$4,490 (internal airfare included), single supplement $1,190
Included:
All transfers & excursions mentioned in the program hosted by Felipe Soto & local experts in each location.
All (11) breakfasts + 6 lunches + All (11) dinners
1 night in Lima – Hotel Crowne Plaza
1 night in Arequipa – Hotel Libertador
2 nighta in Colca Valley – Colca Lodge
2 nights in Puno – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
3 nights in Cusco – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
1 night in Sacred Valley – Hotel Pakaritampu
1 night in Machu Picchu Town – Hotel Inkaterra Machu Picchu
Train Andean Explorer Puno – Cusco
Train Vistadome Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley
Internal flights: Lima – Arequipa / Cusco Lima
All park entrance fees
Not Included: Travel Insurance, meals & activities not mentioned in the program & gratuities.
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Lima (Sat, Aug 15):
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a great metropolis with multiple layers, which has majestically preserved the
evidence of its glorious past despite the passage of time. It is an effervescent city in constant transformation,
where the different expressions of the country’s cultural diversity coexist perfectly.
Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, in colonial times it was considered the City of Kings, and UNESCO
recently designated it as a World Heritage Site.
Located on the Pacific Ocean, it is the country’s main port of entry and boasts a very significant travel, hotel
and restaurant industry.
This itinerary considers your arrival in the morning. In case you need an extra night prior to this tour please
contact us for assistance.
Arrival into Lima Aiport where our representative will be waiting with a sign with your name to transfer you to
our hotel. Free time until 2:00 pm when we will meet in the lobby of the hotel to begin a tour of the city's
main avenues, boulevards, and squares. The tour will begin with an exploration of Colonial Lima. First, we will
stop off at the Plaza de Armas (Main Square). We will get a chance to explore the square by foot and admire
the exteriors of the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), the Cathedral of Lima, and the Municipalidad
(City Hall), all examples of Lima's still-present colonial architectural opulence. Afterwards, we will visit La Casa
Aliaga, a colonial mansion that currently holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited
private residence in the Southern Hemisphere.
Finally, we will leave behind Lima's Historical Center and begin our journey through the streets of modern
Lima as we head toward the most traditional of the residential zones of the capital: San Isidro and Miraflores.
In San Isidro, we will pass through the heart of the city's financial district and then enjoy a panoramic view of
the Huaca Hullamarca Pyramid, an important pre-Inca and Incan ceremonial center and cemetery built out of
adobe mud bricks. Soon afterwards, we will travel to the district of Miraflores, a perfect spot to enjoy
wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean.
We will complete our tour of Lima with a visit to the Bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, a neighborhood
called home by countless artists, photographers, and authors. Walk along peculiar streets lined with
Republican houses, admire the splendid views, and visit the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), witness to
untold numbers of past and present romances, and source of inspiration for one of Peru's great composers,
Chabuca Granda. Return to the hotel for our welcome dinner.
Dinner – Hotel Crowne Plaza
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Day 2 Lima - Arequipa (Sun, Aug 16):
Located in Peru’s southern highlands, Arequipa is synonymous with greatness: exceptional architecture,
phenomenal cuisine, majestic volcanoes that guard the fertile valleys and countryside, as well as one of the
greatest attractions of southern Peru, the Colca Valley.
Founded by the Spaniards in 1540 on the banks of the Chili River, at the foot of the Misti volcano, Arequipa is
currently Peru’s second most urban and economically developed city.
A stroll through Arequipa’s historic center reconnects you with the past of one of the most beautiful cities of
the colonial period. The imposing buildings made of ashlar, a white volcanic rock, demonstrate the
architectural blending of native art and motifs with European canons. One of the most representative samples
of this is the Convent of Santa Catalina. Built as a cloister in 1579, in its beginnings it housed a small number of
nuns. After 400 years of seclusion, it was open to the public in 1970.
After breakfast we will take our transfer to the airport in Lima for our 9:50 am flight to Arequipa. Transfer to
our hotel to check in and free time for snack or lunch (not included).
Fiercely guarded by three volcanoes—the Misti, the Chachani, and the Pichu Pichu—the magnificent Ciudad
Blanca (White City) awaits you with its extraordinary architecture and surreal landscapes. Discover one of
Peru's most beautiful colonial cities.
We will begin your tour with a visit to the Convento de Santa Catalina (Convent of St. Catherine). Founded in
1579 as a cloister, in its early days the convent was home to a small group of clergy who came from the local
elite. We will walk through its beautiful buildings as our guide takes us on a journey back in time through one
of the largest holdings of colonial art in the Americas.
The tour of the city will continue as we visit the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of
Jesus). With its imposing size and fascinating appearance, this magnificent church will take your breath away.
Be sure to pay special attention to the Baroque façade and the amazing sacristy, meticulously decorated with
vividly-colored murals. After finishing our tour of the church, we will move on to the Mirador del Carmen (a
natural lookout point), ten minutes from the city center. From there we will be able to enjoy a spectacular
view of the Chili River Valley and of the majestic Misti volcano. Next, we will stop off in the upscale
neighborhood of Yanahuara and get a chance to walk along its wide cobblestone avenues and see its old
ashlar stone mansions, which still preserve their traditional gardens. We will also be able to admire a beautiful
church constructed in 1750 and a quaint plaza with a gorgeous ashlar stone lookout balcony.
We will have the rest of the day free until time to meet for dinner.
Note: Pack a small bag for the next two nights.
Breakfast & Dinner – Hotel Libertador Arequipa
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Note: The town lies at an average of 7,900 feet (2,400 m), and visitors often experience mild altitude sickness such as
dizziness, lethargy and headaches. The local climate is extremely dry and mild, with daytime temperatures between 18–
25 °C (64–77 °F) in the winter (June to August). Nighttime temperatures routinely drop below 0 °C (32 °F) and can reach
as low as −10 °C (14 °F) in the winter.
At higher altitudes, the pressure of the air around you (barometric pressure) decreases so there is less oxygen in
surrounding air. People can live comfortably at moderately high altitudes, but the body must make some adjustments,
and this takes time. If you ascend to altitudes above 8,000 feet, you will be in danger of developing uncomfortable or
dangerous symptoms from the change in altitude.
You can treat mild altitude sickness with rest and pain relievers. The drug acetazolamide can speed recovery. This drug
balances your body chemistry and stimulates breathing.
If you have symptoms of altitude sickness, avoid alcohol, sleeping pills and narcotic pain medications. All of these can
slow your breathing, which is extremely dangerous in low-oxygen conditions.
You can treat high-altitude cerebral edema with supplemental oxygen and the drug dexamethasone, which decreases
brain swelling.
Information provided by Harvard Health Publications
Full report http://www.drugs.com/health-guide/altitude-sickness.html
If you suffer high blood pressure and/ or heart problems please check with your doctor before booking this tour.
Day 3 Arequipa – Colca Canyon (Mon, Aug 17)
Early in the morning, we will depart Arequipa to embark on a journey across a land of snow-covered
volcanoes, inhospitable pampas, and incredibly beautiful quaint villages, arriving finally in the Colca Valley.
The first stop will be in the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, whose rugged plains are home to vast herds of
Guanaco, Alpaca, and Vicuña. We will continue the journey as we ride along the edge of the crater of the
Chucura Volcano, until we reach the Mirador de los Andes (Lookout Point of the Andes) in Patapampa. This
lookout point, at 16,100 ft (4,900 m) above sea level, will offer spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of
the various volcanoes surrounding Arequipa, including the Hualca Calca, the Sabancaya, and the Ampato.
Next, we will head to the town of Chivay (close to where the Colca Valley begins) for a closer inspection of the
impressive system of platforms and terraces built by the ancient Collagua and Cabana inhabitants.
After lunch, we will make our way to the hotel.
Rest of the afternoon free to take advantage of the hotel's amenities, enjoy the tranquility of your
surroundings, or simply rest and recover for the next day, as you see fit.
Enjoy an excellent night's rest at your hotel in the Colca Valley.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Colca Lodge
Day 4 Colca (Tue, Aug 18):
Free day to enjoy this marvellous place on earth and the amenities that our lodge provide such the natural
thermal bath - The hot baths at Colca Lodge are located down by the river among natural surroundings with
very little evidence of human intervention. The three pools are built of stone, exploiting the rock formations of
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the riverbed, and are fed by a spring which surfaces at a temperature of 80 degrees Celsius. Each pool has a
different temperature, between 36 and 39 degrees Celsius. A fourth pool containing cold water is a bracing
alternative for more daring individuals.
Breakfast & Dinner – Colca Lodge
Day 5 Colca - Puno (Wed, Aug 19):
Early in the morning, we will travel to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor (Condor Cross Lookout). With its
incredibly vast and breath-taking expanses, it is considered to be the best spot in the world to see the majestic
Andean Condor in flight. Be on the lookout for the sudden appearance of this emblematic bird on the verge of
extinction. With a little luck, you will enjoy a truly awe-inspiring experience as you watch this awesome bird
soar, almost magically, ever higher into the infinite blue sky. From this vantage point, you will be able to look
out across one of the world's deepest canyons (13,650 feet [4,160 m] deep at the northern end and 11,800
feet [3,600 m] deep on its southern end).
Once we arrive to the village of Chivay we will have time for lunch before boarding our bus to Puno, the bus
ride it will take about 6 hours.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
Day 6 Puno (Thu, Aug 20):
Located on the Altiplano, in the Andes of
Southern Peru, Puno is home to the highest lake
in the world, Lake Titicaca (4,000 meters [13,123
feet] above sea level), and to endless
archaeological testimonies and ancient cultures
which have remained alive despite the passage of
time and the encroachment of modernity.
Lake Titicaca is and has been a source of life for
its inhabitants, and has made its mark on their
destiny. Centuries ago, it was home to the
Tiahuanaco culture (100 to 700 B.C.), one of the
most influential pre-Incan cultures that dominated almost all of what is now Peru. To walk along the shores of
Lake Titicaca, or to sail its waters, is to reconnect with an unchanged past, influenced by the countless legends
that spring forth from its waters and to which the origins of the Inca Empire are attributed.
Puno is a region full of contrasts, where ancient history and traditions blend in with the rugged mountain
geography. Some prominent attractions in the area are the Chullpas de Sillustani (Sillustani funerary towers),
the pink city of Lampa, and the colonial temples of Juli and Pomata. The lake's beautiful islands, among them
Los Uros, Taquile, and Amantaní, are home to native communities that welcome those travelers who wish to
spend time with them and learn about their ancestral customs.
Today we will enjoy an extraordinary journey across the world's highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. Travel to
legendary places where time seems to have stood still. Our first stop will be the Uros floating islands. These
are a peculiar grouping of around 40 small islands made totally of totora, a natural reed that grows around the
lake. The cheerful inhabitants will invite you to get to know their traditional lifestyle and customs.
We will continue our voyage across the placid waters of the lake until we come to the picturesque island of
Taquile, a peaceful place where old Quechua traditions live in perfect balance with modernity. Discover a
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landscape distinct from the other islands thanks to the Incan terraces filled with local flowers and crops. The
rich colors of the clothing worn by the local inhabitants will amaze you; admire their beautiful hand-made
fabrics. Most importantly, enjoy the unbelievable hospitality of the islanders, known as Taquileños, who will
make your visit to the island a memorable one. Before making our way back to Puno, we will have lunch at a
local home. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
Day 07 Puno - Cusco (Fri, Aug 21)
Riding the Andean Explorer is a unique experience, a journey between mountains and clouds, and between
mountains and highlands. The ride is a ten-hour train journey, which ends at the majestic Cusco and in whose
path, the traveller will see the changing landscapes among mountains, rolling plains, and the various weather
of the area.
The Andean Explorer involves you in an exquisite area decorated with the subtle, delicate style of the great
Pullman trains of the twenties. It includes dining cars and a carbar outdoor observatory. The Andean Explorer is one the most
luxurious and different ways to travel between Lake Titicaca and
Cusco.
Mentioned among The Best Journeys by Train of the World and
one of the best two in South America (Society of International
Railway Travelers).
Greeting at the train station & transfer to our hotel in Cusco,
arriving around 6:30 pm.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner– Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
Day 08 Cusco (Sat, Aug 22)
Nestled in the Andes, Cusco is one of the most fascinating places in the Americas, which never fails to surprise
visitors with its mystery-filled history. With its excellent hotels and restaurants, this city is full of amazing
places to see.
A product of the fusion of Inca and Hispanic culture, Cusco has been declared a World Heritage Site. We can
feel the magic of the impressive legacy of Inca culture, as we walk through its streets and its fascinating stone
passages, as we visit its colonial mansions built over the remains of Inca structures, and as we explore its
imposing fortresses and majestic citadels.
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An extraordinary city, with more than its fair share of places brimming with mysticism and grandeur, such as
the Koricancha or Templo del Sol, which is said to have featured entire walls covered in gold, or the Twelve
Angle Stone, or the fortress of Sacsahuaman, which all showcase Inca ingenuity used to build structures with
enormous carved rocks joined together with the utmost precision; or the Cathedral, the La Merced church,
and the famous San Blas pulpit, legacies of colonial religious art and architecture. The surrounding area also
features Inca remains such as Tipon, Pikillacta (south of the city), Tambomachay, Quenqo and Puca Pucara.
Cusco is also the gateway to the Sacred Valley, which was the Inca’s favorite spot. It is a vast area with
picturesque towns and dream landscapes, featuring the Urubamba or Vilcanota River flowing through from
the town of Pisac to Ollantaytambo. It is a fertile valley with a maze of platforms devoted to agriculture, and
which is still in use today, for the cultivation of products such as potatoes and large-grain corn, the main
source of sustenance for the Andean population and the only one of its kind. The Sacred Valley also features
the Moray complex, an ingenious system of circular platforms used as an agricultural laboratory for the
climate adaptation of species from other ecological areas. The Valley now has an exceptional travel
infrastructure that attracts visitors from all over the world, and in addition to the archaeological attractions, it
is also possible to go canoeing, mountain biking, hiking, among other adventure sports.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a place where you can enjoy the landscape, learn about the customs of the
indigenous people, and have the experience of a lifetime.
History-filled alleys, churches, walls and archaeological treasures await you in the magnificent Incan capital.
We will begin our tour as you enjoy the best view of the city of Cusco from atop Cerro Pukamoqo (Red Peak), a
natural scenic overlook from which the outstretched arms of Cristo Blanco, a massive white statue of Christ,
embrace the city in a benevolent gesture. We will then visit the nearby Fortaleza de Sacsayhuamán (Fortress
of Sacsayhuamán), a colossal structure of enormous stones, carved and fitted together with incredible
precision. As we return to the lower part of the city, we will stop off at the Mercado de San Pedro (Market of
St. Peter), which being the city’s main street market, will give you an opportunity to get to know the products
of Cusco, overwhelming you with the sights, aromas, tastes, and colors of the region.
Just a few blocks away, you will discover one of the most impressive buildings of Incan Cusco: the Korikancha
(the Golden Temple) - a temple dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, whose interior walls were said to
have been covered in gold. We will complete the day with a stroll through the Cusco Plaza de Armas (Main
Square), where we will visit the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the
Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Rest of day free.
On our way to Machu Picchu we are only allowed to bring one backpack (or similar) + 1 carry on per person on
the train, please pack wisely for the next two nights, don’t forget your passport, money, camera, charger,
sunglass, mosquito repellent, water bottle and clothes for three days. Rest of the luggage will be stored at the
hotel. Breakfast & Dinner – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
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Day 09 Cusco – Sacred Valley (Sun, Aug 23)
We will begin our journey toward the Valle Sagrado (Sacred Valley) until we reach the must-see stop of
Awanakancha. Here, we will learn about the various types of camelids (Llamas, Alpaca, Vicuña, and Guanacos)
that live in the Andes region. Additionally, the local villagers will teach us about the ancestral methods and
techniques used to produce their textile art.
A few miles farther along, we will reach Pisac, a beautiful place where Incan and Colonial influences have
reached a perfect balance and created the unique way of life of the local inhabitants. We will get a chance to
explore this quaint town, famous for its artisan markets where you can find extraordinarily fine jewelry and
ceramic and textile craftwork. We will have lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we will visit one of the last remaining Incan towns, Ollantaytambo, which was once fiercely
guarded by a massive fortress. Discover the large archeological complex of what used to serve as a wayside
inn for royal delegations on long journeys. Surviving structures here include multiple walls and towers that
were used to protect the citadel from possible invasions.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Hotel Pakaritampu
Day 10 Machu Picchu (Mon, Aug 24):
After breakfast we will board the Vistadome Sacred Valley train. Renovated carriages have beautiful
panoramic windows to make the most of the spectacular scenery and allow for fantastic photo opportunities.
Delicious snacks as well as hot and cold refreshments are served on the way. Arriving to Machu Picchu train
station at 09:24 am, we will take the short ride bus to the entrance to the fabulous mountaintop ruins of
Machu Picchu.
Completed in approximately 1450 at the height of the Incan empire, Machu Picchu was abandoned less than
100 years later following the Spanish conquest of Peru. Today it is considered by many to be the new spiritual
center of the world.
Our expert guide will walk with us through the main streets of these amazing ruins. Stroll through town
squares and climb delicately carved stone stairways. There will be time to be alone and fully embrace this
magnificent wonder of the world, letting this once in a lifetime experience set in. Hiking the ruins is sure to
work up an appetite so there will be a buffet lunch waiting for us at the Del Sanctuary Lodge.
Rest of afternoon free to walk around the Sanctuary, bus back to Machu Picchu town for our dinner & lodging.
Last bus to Machu Picchu town is at 5:00 pm.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner – Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel
Day 11 Cusco (Tue, Aug 25)
Free morning to explore the town or re-enter the sanctuary (park fee not included). Around 3:00 pm we will
meet at the hotel to walk back to the train station & board our train back to Ollantaytambo station where we
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will combine with our private van back to Cusco, transfer to hotel and enjoy our farewell dinner.
Breakfast & Dinner - Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection
Day 12 Cusco - Lima (Wed, Aug 26)
Breakfast & free time until your flight back to Lima. You will be able to choose your flight from 7:00 am until
6:00 pm in order to combine with your international flight. Please allow at least 3 hours between internal
flight & your international connection.
Check out is at 10:00 am, late check out available at extra cost.
Breakfast
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Hotels used in the program:
Lima – Crowne Plaza Lima 5*
The Crowne Plaza hotel boasts an unbeatable location in Miraflores a touristic and
commercial district of Lima city.
The Crowne Plaza Lima is a 5 star hotel with 96 rooms spread over 15 floors, totally
renovated in 2014. The hotel features seven exquisite meeting rooms, excellent catering an
the lates audio/visual equipment.
http://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/hotels/us/es/lima/lmami/hoteldetail
Arequipa – Hotel Libertador Arequipa 5* http://www.libertador.com.pe/en/libertador/arequipa/general-information/
The Hotel Libertador Arequipa, offers a distinguished and warm service, to
tourists traveling the Arequipa-Cuzco circuit, as well as to business travelers. In
events, it has the capacity to serve up to 1000 persons, whether in its salons or
in its gardens, which may be specially decorated and equipped for conferences
and congresses.
Its facilities and location make it an ideal starting point for exploring the Colca
Canyon, which is one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Colca – Colca Lodge 3* www.colca-lodge.com
The Colca Valley is where the river meets the sky, the sun joins the moon and the mind and body are
connected; there is history, and the friendly people retain their traditions, their
legends and their spirit.
At an altitude of 3250 meters above sea level and two-and-a-half hours travel from
the city of Arequipa, our hotel nestles on the banks of the Colca River. It is
surrounded by hundreds of pre-Inca agricultural terraces, which have been declared
a Peruvian cultural heritage, and is blessed with relaxing hot spring waters rich in
lithium. This is a place with ancient energy, synchronized with nature and the
starting point for exploring the valley and visiting the Colca Canyon, one of the
world’s deepest ravines. At Colca Lodge you will feel another dimension to relaxation at our hot springs Ecospa where we offer you a steam room, Jacuzzis, and massage sessions with local therapists. The spa was
conceived as eco-friendly, and makes use of geothermal energy without interfering with or polluting the
natural environment. You will also feel the healing power of our open-air hot pools, each one with a different
temperature. Taking a bath in the light from the stars is simply a magical experience. In addition to the sense
of tranquility and harmony provided by the relaxing effect of the lithium, the landscape and the never-ending
murmuring of the river complete an unforgettable experience. We are waiting for you in the place where time
stands still and lets you feel everything.
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Puno – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection 4* www.casa-andina.com/private-collection-puno/
Casa Andina Private Collection Puno is nestled on the shores of the Titicaca Lake. The
hotel enjoys a spectacular location, with stunning views of the highest navigable lake
of the world. The hotel was built with local rustic materials, such as stone, wood, and
tiles, and has stone fireplaces heating the lobby and the restaurant. Our restaurant is
surrounded by glass walls that face the lake. The beautiful sunny terrace invites
guests to contemplate the endless Titicaca. Most of the hotel's 46 rooms have
panoramic views.
Cusco – Hotel Casa Andina Private Collection 4* http://www.casa-andina.com/private-collection-cusco/?lang=en
Our Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco is located in a beautiful eighteenth century
house, recently remodeled, with 5 stately colonial courtyards, only 4 blocks away
from Cusco's Main Square.
The hotel distinguishes itself because of its big inner courtyards and wooden
balconies. The main courtyard has a stone fountain and it is one of the most
emblematic stone fountains of Cusco's colonial times. There's a cozy stone chimney which is always crackling - in the living room. This romantic atmosphere invites
guests to dine by candle light in salons decorated with paintings from the Cusco
School. The suites are extraordinary and some rooms still have the original structure display of old frescoes
that were discovered while the hotel was being remodeled.
Ollantaytambo – Pakaritampu Hotel 3* www.pakaritampu.com
The name "Pakaritampu" derives from the Quechua
words "pakari" which means "dawn" and "tampu"
which means "home". Pakaritampu Hotel is located
in the Sacred Valley in the village of Ollantaytambo,
2 minutes from the train station with direct
connection to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu – Inkaterra Machu Picchu Hotel 3* - www.inkaterra.com/inkaterra/inkaterra-machu-picchu-pueblo-hotel/
An intimate 85-cottage luxury hotel in a sprawling
Andean style village within the secluded 12 acres of
exquisite beauty, where guests follow stone pathways
to their rooms, located in comfortable one- or twostory whitewashed casitas.
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