Imperial Peru, Italian-speaking guide
Imperial Peru, Italian-speaking guide
6 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Cusco, Peru
Visiting: Lima, Aguas Calientes, Cusco
Tour operator:
Tour code:
323743
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
10-99
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Peru with our "Imperial Peru" tour, guided by an Italian-speaking local expert. Begin your adventure in Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Explore the ancient Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo and the vibrant Sacred Valley. Discover Cusco, the former Inca capital, with its unique mix of pre-Columbian and Spanish architecture. The highlight of your trip will be the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, where you'll explore its intricate rooms, temples, and bridges. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, private transfers, and guided tours, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Jose Antonio or similar 4*
Upon landing at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, head to the Arrivals hall where a tour representative will be waiting to pick you up. You’ll then be accompanied to the transportation service that will transfer you to your hotel in Lima. The Peruvian capital is a modern metropolis brimming with history that is currently undergoing an exciting process of cultural and economic changes. After checking in, you can spend the rest of this first day at leisure, be that by putting up your feet after the flight and taking advantage of the services available at the hotel, or by heading out to the streets to start exploring these fascinating new surroundings at your own rhythm. Just make sure you get enough rest before the following day, when the real adventure begins.
Overnight in Lima
Day 2 : Lima - Cusco (90 Min By Flight)
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll be taken at about 8:30 to enjoy a four-hour guided tour of Lima. The main square is the symbolic place where the city is said to have been born in 1535. Lima is popularly known as the ‘City of Kings’ and it became the capital of the Republic of Peru in 1821, the year that marked the country's independence. Visit the Cathedral and the Casa Aliaga, an ancient viceroyalty house handed over by Francisco Pizarro to one of his captains (Jeronimo de Aliaga) after the city was founded. Continue then to the district of Pueblo Libre for an interesting tour through the Larco Museum, founded by Rafael Larco Hoyle in 1926 and located inside a mansion built on a pre-Columbian pyramid. In this famous museum, also known for having the most extensive collection of erotic ceramics in the world, you will have the opportunity to admire a complete pre-Hispanic collection of gold and silver artefacts. After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport to board a direct flight to Cusco (Lima-Cusco flight is not included; we recommend booking a flight that departs after 15:00). Upon landing in Cusco, transfer to your hotel to check in and spend the night.
Overnight in Cusco.
Day 3 : Cusco – Chinchero – Sacred Valley – Aguas Calientes (75 Km – 2 Hrs By Land / 2 Hrs By Train)
Location: Aguas Calientes
Accommodation Name: El Mapi or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before hopping onto a transfer at 7:00 to Chinchero, an originally Inca historical and artisan centre. Here are the archaeological remains and one of the first Catholic churches in the country, dating back to the 17th century. Chinchero, located at 3,762 metres above sea level, offers a privileged view of the Sacred Valley. Like most of the towns in the region, Chinchero also suffered the ‘extirpation of idolatries’, an action that replaced traditional deities with Catholic ones during colonial times. After a tour, continue to Maras and visit the Inca salt pans: about 3,000 ponds used by the Inca people for extracting salt that was then exchanged for other products of the empire. It’s a magical place full of extraordinary colour combinations as the sun plays on the salt and water. Later, go to Ollantaytambo for lunch at 13:00. Ollantaytambo is a typical, though still inhabited, example of Inca urban planning. Admire the imposing archaeological site that was a place of refreshment and lodging for groups undertaking long journeys. Lastly, hop onto a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will be met by a representative who will walk you to the hotel. After checking in you will receive all necessary information for the Machu Picchu visit the following day.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 4 : Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco (2 Hrs By Train / 75 Km – 2 Hrs By Land)
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Wake up early in the morning for breakfast and then, at about 6:00, join your guide on a journey to Machu Picchu. Your guide will accompany you to the bus, which will be shared with other tourists. Once you’ve made it to the world-renowned site after a short bus ride, join a 2.5-hour-long guided tour of the citadel. During the tour you will get to visit the main square, the royal apartments, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Solar Clock and the cemetery. At the end of the visit, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. In the afternoon, at about 14:30, hop onto a train back to Ollantaytambo Station, where a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to your chosen hotel in Cusco. You’ll be dropped off at about 18:00.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 5 : Cusco: City Tour
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today breakfast at the hotel is followed by a pick-up at 8:30 for a fascinating four-hour tour of the city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire back in the 15th century. During the tour you will be able to see many famous sites, including the Main Square, Regocijo Square, the Cathedral, the Monastery of Santo Domingo and the legendary Korikancha Temple. Afterwards, visit the archaeological sites of Kenko, Puca Pucara and the extraordinary fortress of Sacsayhuaman, which offers an extraordinary view of the city of Cusco. Once the tour is over, you will be dropped off at your hotel at 13:00. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to spend at your leisure. We recommend you wander through the streets of the bohemian neighbourhood of San Blas, which used to be inhabited by the Inca nobility. Its imposing stone buildings are just a few steps from the famous Main Square or Huacaypata. At about 19:00, enjoy dinner and a folklore show at a local restaurant before being returned to the hotel at 21:30.
Overnight in Cusco.
Day 6 : Departure Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
After finishing your last breakfast at the hotel, your representative will assist you with check out and accompany you on the short transfer from the hotel in Cusco to the airport. Although this is the last day of your journey through some of the most fascinating places Peru has to offer, we hope that your memories of this remarkable country, bursting with both culture and history, will last a lifetime.
Breakfast in the hotel
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with Italian-speaking local guide on shared basis on days 2, 3, 4, 5.
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Accommodation
5 nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels: Jose Antonio or similar in Lima, Sonesta Cusco or similar in Cusco, and El Mapi or similar in Aguas Calientes.
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Meals
5 breakfasts, 2 lunches on days 3 and 4, and 1 dinner on day 5.
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Transport
Private transfers between airport and hotel in Lima and Cusco, roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail), shared bus Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back, and private transfer from train station in Ollantaytambo to hotel in Cusco.
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Entrance Fees and Activities
All visits mentioned in the itinerary: guided tour in Lima (day 2), visit Chinchero (day 3), visit Ollantaytambo (day 3), guided tour Machu Picchu (day 4), and guided tour in Cusco (day 5).
What's Not Included
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Airport Fees
Airport fees are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as drinks, telephone, laundry, etc.
, are not included. -
Unspecified Items
Anything not expressly indicated in 'the price includes' is not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while for the high Andean area the use of warm clothing is recommended. It is not recommended that visitors wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay
Carry the same document that you presented to the agency, given that the train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu will be issued with the same information
In all train services to Machu Picchu, the passenger can carry only hand luggage (backpack, bag or briefcase) weighing no more than 5kg / 11lb on the train to / from Machu Picchu. You will find your luggage at the chosen hotel. Allowed size: 62 linear inches 157cm (height + length + width)
Please Note
Rates do not apply to Peruvians or residents with more than 60 days of stay. If passengers are Peruvians or exceed 60 days of stay, sale taxes (18%) will be collected by our local operator
We recommend to book the flight Lima – Cusco not prior 3 pm on day 2.
Please note that Check In in most hotels begins at 13:00 hrs. Clients will be subject to the availability of the room if they arrive before, waiting in the hotel lobby
If your trip includes the visit to high altitude cities such as Cusco and Puno located at more than 3400 meters (11 200 feet above sea level), do not forget to take precautions in order to avoid altitude sickness. Passengers who have heart problems or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before travelling
Upon arrival is recommended to rest for few hours, drink coca tea and eat lightly. As a reference Machu Picchu is located at 2400 meters (8 000 feet above sea level)
On Day 3: Luggage note: For the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, only hand luggage must be carried with the minimum necessary for the night (maximum 5 kg per person). The main baggage can be left on deposit in the hotel in Cusco.
On Day 3: Operative note: The guide will leave clients at the Ollantaytambo station and the train journey is scheduled unaccompanied. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, customers will be expected by a chosen hotel representative who will accompany them on foot to the accommodation. Once at the hotel, customers will be contacted personally or by telephone by the Italian speaking guide who will provide all the indications for the Machu Picchu visit the next day.
Important: During the rainy season (December-March) it will not be possible to carry out Maras's visit. Depending on the climatic situation, it will be replaced with a visit to the archaeological site of Moray or another excursion to be decided from time to time.
During the trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, there is no presence of the guide on board, on day 4
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW ENTRANCE REGULATIONS TO MACHU PICCHU
The current restrictions on visits to Machu Picchu allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide during the first entry. If the visitor tours an alternate route (Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu) the passenger will have 3 hours to for this purpose, additional to the 4 hours in the citadel. If the passenger wishes to enter the citadel again during the afternoon shift or the next day, he must acquire previously an additional ticket to enter in the new shift. There is no ticket sale in the archaeological zone.
It is forbidden the follow objects: professional cameras that require lights and tripods, or with telephoto lenses with a weigh higher than 2 kilos (in order to use them, special authorization is needed, as well as the payment of an additional fee), drones, selfie sticks, sprays, high heels, walking sticks without rubber tip, banners and posters, sharp objects and backpacks bigger than 40cm x 35 cm x 20 cm.
NEW PLASTIC REGULATION:
After the prohibition of the access of single use plastic items to 76 natural areas including Machu Picchu, it is important to use reusable bottles.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1; Lima
- Superior Hotel Category = Jose Antonio or similar 4*
Day 2; Cusco
- Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Day 3; Aguas Calientes
- Superior Hotel Category = El Mapi or similar 4*
Day 4,5; Cusco
- Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Mode of Transport
Experience seamless travel with private transfers between airports and hotels in Lima and Cusco, roundtrip train service to Machu Picchu, and shared bus transfers from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back.
Accommodation
Enjoy 5 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels, including Jose Antonio in Lima, Sonesta Cusco in Cusco, and El Mapi in Aguas Calientes, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your stay.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1; Lima
- Superior Hotel Category = Jose Antonio or similar 4*
Day 2; Cusco
- Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Day 3; Aguas Calientes
- Superior Hotel Category = El Mapi or similar 4*
Day 4,5; Cusco
- Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Cusco or similar 4*
Check out our Q&As
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What type of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an Italian-speaking local guide on a shared basis on days 2, 3, 4, and 5.
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What kind of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes 5 nights' accommodation. On Day 1, you will stay in a superior hotel category such as Jose Antonio or similar 4* in Lima. On Day 2, you will stay at Sonesta Cusco or similar 4* in Cusco. On Day 3, you will stay at El Mapi or similar 4* in Aguas Calientes. On Days 4 and 5, you will return to Sonesta Cusco or similar 4* in Cusco.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches on days 3 and 4, and 1 dinner on day 5.
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What transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes private transfers between the airport and hotel in Lima and Cusco, roundtrip train to Machu Picchu in Expedition Service (PeruRail) or Voyager (IncaRail), shared bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back, and private transfer from the train station in Ollantaytambo to the hotel in Cusco.
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What activities and entrance fees are included in the tour?
All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included, such as a guided tour in Lima (day 2), visit to Chinchero (day 3), visit to Ollantaytambo (day 3), guided tour of Machu Picchu (day 4), and a guided tour in Cusco (day 5).
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What should I pack for the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while warm clothing is recommended for the high Andean area. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful. It is not recommended to wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings.
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Are there any specific requirements for visiting Machu Picchu?
Yes, you should carry the same document that you presented to the agency, as train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu will be issued with the same information. Only hand luggage (backpack, bag, or briefcase) weighing no more than 5kg / 11lb is allowed on the train to/from Machu Picchu. The allowed size is 62 linear inches (157cm) in height, length, and width.
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What are the new entrance regulations to Machu Picchu?
The current restrictions allow a maximum stay of 4 hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide during the first entry. If you tour an alternate route (Mountain Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu), you will have 3 additional hours. If you wish to enter the citadel again during the afternoon shift or the next day, you must acquire an additional ticket in advance. There is no ticket sale in the archaeological zone.
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What items are prohibited at Machu Picchu?
Prohibited items include professional cameras that require lights and tripods, or with telephoto lenses weighing more than 2 kilos (special authorization and an additional fee are required), drones, selfie sticks, sprays, high heels, walking sticks without rubber tips, banners and posters, sharp objects, and backpacks bigger than 40cm x 35cm x 20cm.
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What should I know about the plastic regulation at Machu Picchu?
After the prohibition of single-use plastic items in 76 natural areas including Machu Picchu, it is important to use reusable bottles.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
Reviews of this operator
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Monday - Saturday
Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Lima Tours requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 89 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of lima tours charges.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.