Colors of Peru: An 8-Day Exploration of Vibrant Landscapes and Ancient Culture

Upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, you'll be greeted by the hum of Peru's capital. Settle in to your conveniently located airport hotel. If time permits and you're feeling energized, venture out to nearby attractions by taxi. Choose from options like the Larco Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including exquisite gold and silver treasures, and a famous collection of erotic pottery.

Alternatively, venture to the nearby port city of Callao to explore the imposing Fortaleza Real Felipe, a massive 18th-century Spanish fortress built to defend the coast from pirates and enemy attacks. Explore its ramparts, dungeons and towers, and imagine the battles that once raged within its walls.

A morning flight (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes) will transport you to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. From Cusco's airport, depart on a picturesque drive to the quaint village of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes).

An array of transfer options are available, including taxis, private car services and "collectivos" (shared vans), providing adaptability and ease to suit your budget. Settle into your quaint Ollantaytambo hotel and enjoy a hearty dinner, relishing the local flavors and anticipating the adventures ahead in this historic Incan town.

Delve into the profound history and dynamic culture of Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town. Begin your day by the awe-inspiring Ollantaytambo Sanctuary, a testament to Inca architectural prowess. Marvel at its detailed stonework, remarkable agricultural terraces and the ingenious engineering of its water channels. Meander through the town's charming cobblestone streets, lined with traditional adobe houses and busy artisan workshops.

Discover the local market, a sensory delight where you can find unique souvenirs, intricately woven textiles and fresh, local produce. For lunch, consider a Pachamanca experience, a traditional Andean meal cooked underground. In the afternoon, for a unique cultural encounter, visit a local farm and interact with adorable guinea pigs, learning about their traditional role in Peruvian cuisine and culture. As the day wanes, hike to the Pinkuylluna archaeological site, perched on a hilltop. Witness a captivating sunset over the valley, capturing the otherworldly beauty of the Sacred Valley bathed in golden hues.

Today, you will encounter the fabled lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Check out of your Ollantaytambo hotel and board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes), the gateway to Machu Picchu. The PeruRail Vistadome or Inca Rail's The Voyager offer panoramic views. You have the option of storing your luggage with the rail company or at your Ollantaytambo hotel, allowing you to explore the citadel unencumbered. The train ride itself is a highlight, winding through lush valleys, alongside the rushing Urubamba River, and offering glimpses of Inca terraces and archaeological sites.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will ascend to Machu Picchu by bus (approximately 25 minutes). Dedicate the rest of the day wandering this UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its fascinating ruins, marveling at the intricate architecture, the stunning views of the surrounding cloud forest and the air of mystery surrounding its abandonment. Wander through the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb and the Intihuatana stone, feeling the powerful energy of this ancient Incan citadel.

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner in Aguas Calientes at Full House Peruvian Cuisine, known for its flavorful food and panoramic views overlooking the Urubamba River. Afterward you can peruse the markets, before heading to the train station and returning to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, transfer back to Cusco, using the same options as Day 2.

Experience a thrilling ATV adventure to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a geological wonder displaying vibrant, multi-colored slopes. Your day will commence with an early morning transfer to Uchullujillo, the starting point for your ATV tour. From there, embark on an ATV ride to a point a few miles from Rainbow Mountain. From here you'll have the option to hike the remainder of the way or choose a more comfortable alternative of riding a horse.

Due to the challenging altitude (over 17,000 feet), this is highly recommended. Upon reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain, absorb the stunning panorama of its colorful stripes, a result of mineral deposits and geological formations over millennia. Capture striking photographs and appreciate the distinctive beauty of this natural wonder. After returning to where you parked the ATVs, you will ride back to Uchullujillo and you'll be transferred back to your hotel in Cusco for a well-deserved rest.

Spend the day exploring Cusco's historic heart. Begin in the Plaza de Armas, the city's dynamic core, surrounded by grand colonial architecture and teeming with life. Visit the Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial art housing a vast collection of religious paintings and artifacts.

Visit Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), a fascinating fusion of Inca and Spanish architecture, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Discover the commanding Sacsayhuamán fortress, marveling at its massive, precisely cut stone walls and its strategic location overlooking the city. Indulge your sweet tooth at the ChocoMuseo, where you can learn about the history of cacao and participate in a hands-on workshop to craft your own delicious chocolate creations.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely pace after several days of activity, take this day to rest. Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, or simply wander through the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops and charming cafes.

Head out on a day trip down the coast, stopping first at the Paracas National Reserve, a unique coastal ecosystem where the vast desert converges with the Pacific Ocean. This protected area is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and striking landscapes. Explore the rugged coastline, where the Paracas Peninsula juts out into the ocean, creating sheltered bays and coves teeming with marine life. You can take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the "Poor Man's Galapagos," to observe colonies of Humboldt penguins, sea lions and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.

En route from Paracas to Huacachina, consider a detour to Pisco Nieto, a renowned winery nestled in the Ica Valley. Embark on a guided tour of the vineyards, delving into the traditional winemaking process. Afterward, indulge in a delectable lunch perfectly paired with a selection of Pisco Nieto's finest wines. This presents a wonderful opportunity to savor some of the region's celebrated vintages and relish a leisurely afternoon amidst the picturesque Peruvian landscape.

Continue to the Huacachina oasis, a picturesque lagoon fringed by towering sand dunes. This enchanting town offers a unique desert experience. Experience the thrill of a dune buggy ride across the undulating sand dunes, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush. Try your hand at sandboarding, gliding down the dunes on a board or simply unwind by the oasis and soak in the serene desert ambiance. As the sun dips below the horizon, watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors over the dunes before returning to Lima in the evening.

Savor your last day in Peru by enjoying the vibrant Miraflores district. Begin with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café. Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture at the Mercado Indio, a bustling market brimming with handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and traditional Peruvian products – perfect for last-minute gifts. Explore Kennedy Park, the heart of Miraflores.

Enjoy lunch at a Miraflores restaurant, choosing from a diverse range of culinary options. In the afternoon, stroll along the Malecón, Miraflores' stunning clifftop promenade, taking in the breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Visit the Parque del Amor (Love Park), with its colorful mosaics and romantic ambiance. As evening descends, indulge in a final, delicious Peruvian dinner at one of Miraflores' many acclaimed restaurants.