Machu Picchu & Peru Travel

Osorno Volcano and Playa Larga

Your morning begins as you journey towards the skirts of the Osorno Volcano. As you trek through the canyon, take some time to notice the amazing rock formations formed carved out by the glacial waters, melting snow, and ancient lava rivers of Osorno. As we reach the pass between Osorno and Cerro La Picada, you’ll get to enjoy a well-deserved picnic at the edge of a beautiful waterfall. Then, begin the descent towards Playa Larga for a refreshing dip in the lake before returning to the hotel for an evening of relaxation.

Alerce Andino National Park, Millenial Alerce Tree

Venture into Alerce Andino National Park, where the trees radiate centuries’ worth of life. Hike the Chaica River Falls trail, which provides a steady even path alongside babbling crystal waters.

Arrive at the Chaica River Falls for a bit of rest while admiring the scenery. Just a short way ahead is the last part of the trail where the Millenial Alerce Tree stands. Take some time to stand in the presence of this historic giant, thought to be the world’s oldest tree.

Flight to Punta Arenas

Today, you’ll fly to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most famous natural preserves in the world. We’ll pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the airport for the short flight to Punta Arenas. Once you land, we’ll escort you directly to the Explora Lodge in Torres del Paine National Park.

After settling into your luxury accommodations, the Explora hosts will welcome you and help you plan the next few days of activities, choosing from over forty of their unique adventures including hiking, horseback riding, and more. If there’s an excursion you’re particularly excited about, you can reserve it ahead of time with us so we can confirm a spot for you in advance.

Traversing Explora’s all-inclusive options

Embark on your selected explorations for these two full and exciting days in Torres del Paine National Park. The explorations we recommend considering are as follows: the full-day trek to Base Torres, Glacier Grey Excursion, a half-day horseback ride to Laguna Linda, and a full-day hike to the Paine Horns.

Traversing Explora’s all-inclusive options

Spend another day exploring Torres del Paine National Park. If you didn’t get to complete any of our recommendations, we suggest choosing from the following: a full-day trek to Base Torres, the Glacier Grey excursion, a half-day horseback ride to Laguna Linda, and a full-day hike to the Paine Horns!

Flight to Santiago

Today, you will say goodbye to Torres del Paine as you head north. Depending on your departure time, you may be able to do a final half-day excursion, like Aonikenk or Chorrillo Pingo trekking. When it’s time for your flight, a shuttle will pick you up from the hotel and take you to Punta Arenas airport, where you’ll travel to Santiago for a brief one-night pit stop.

Tomorrow you’ll fly north to begin your journey to San Pedro de Atacama, the gateway to the Atacama Desert, Earth’s driest terrain with otherworldly scenery.

Flight Santiago to Calama / Transfer to Atacama

This morning you’ll take a short flight to Calama before being driven to the Explora Atacama Lodge in Ayllu de Larache.

When you make it to the lodge, your Explora hosts will meet you to plan the next few days of activities. If there’s an excursion you’re particularly excited about, you can reserve it ahead of time with us so we can confirm a spot for you in advance.

Explora’s all-inclusive Atacama Lodge

Embark on your selected explorations for these two full and exciting days in the great Atacama Desert!

Our personal favorite explorations we recommend include the following: A visit to The Puritama hot springs, Stargazing at the Explora Observatory, a full-day excursion to the Altiplanic Lagoons, The Wanaku Hike (for something quite active), Tatio Geyser Half Day, and/or Half Day Hike Moon Valley – Kamur.

Explora’s all-inclusive Atacama Lodge

Continue your explorations in the rugged and rousing Atacama Desert.

If you didn’t get an opportunity to experience one of our recommendations, try them out today: A visit to The Puritama hot springs, Stargazing at the Explora Observatory, a full-day excursion to the Altiplanic Lagoons, The Wanaku Hike (for something quite active), Tatio Geyser Half Day, and/or Half Day Hike Moon Valley – Kamur.

Flight to Santiago

Today the Explora lodge will help you get to the airport on time to catch your flight to Santiago, the bustling capital of Chile. If you’re flying in the afternoon, feel free to wander the Explora Lodge trails or relax in any of the luxurious living spaces.

Between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this modern city offers all kinds of attractions for curious travelers. Santiago is known for the delicious Cabernet Sauvignon and the “Sanhattan” district, which is a stylish fusion between Manhattan and Santiago, a heaven on earth for devoted shoppers looking for the perfect souvenir.

Full day hike to Cajon del Maipo and El Morado

Today you’ll enjoy a private guided experience, starting with the trip to Lo Valdes, a small village located 93km away from Santiago in the mountain area called “Cajón del Maipo.” Here, you’ll be able to enjoy a gorgeous light hike to a hanging glacier inside the “El Morado” Natural Monument. The evening will be yours to enjoy at leisure, so savor every moment wandering Santiago.

Valparaiso / Matetic vineyard wine tasting

Today, relax with a day trip to Valparaíso, one of the most important port towns in the country. This picturesque city, hangs on the hills in a stunning way, with an official UNESCO World Heritage historic center.

Start the visiting the tour of the city by visiting Prat pier, a “Puerto” neighborhood that still maintains its heldfast traditions. Afterward, walk in the Alegre and Concepción hills and learn about the architectural and cultural influence of European immigration. Be sure to take note of the vibrant street art that decorates the buildings here.

Later head to the Matetic winery and vineyard located in Rosario valley. The conditions and characteristics of the soil here make it similar to Napa Valley, California. End your day with an indulgent wine tasting of 4 wines of the premium EQ line.

Return to the capital via Viña del Mar

Enjoy a peaceful morning in the seasonal city of Valparaíso before you start the drive back to Santiago.

Long the way, you will be able to stop in Viña del mar for some picturesque views as you stretch your legs and savor your last few hours in Chile. Upon your return to Santiago, you’ll have the afternoon and evening to do as you please.

Tour the capital before you bid farewell to Chile

After an easy morning and delicious lunch, you’ll begin a tour of the city of Santiago. Chile’s capital city is a sophisticated, sprawling metropolis wedged between the Andes and mountainous coastal range, home to roughly one-third of Chile’s population.

We will visit Constitution Square and the palace “La Moneda”, the government’s current headquarters. Explore the “Plaza de Armas,” the main square surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Royal High Court’s palace, the Main Post Office, and historic buildings of like the Central Market. Finally, we will head to San Cristobal hill to enjoy a fantastic panoramic view of the city and the Andes.

After one last meal, we’ll prepare for you for your departure. Going home is the worst part of any private Chile vacation, but at Kuoda, we’ll do our best to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. We’ll bring you to the airport for your return flight for the journey home. Buen Viaje!

Quito, Step by Step

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, thoughtfully prepared to make you feel at home. Today, we invite you to immerse yourself in the soul of Quito, a city brimming with history and wonders, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With your private guide, stroll at your own pace through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, one of the best-preserved in Latin America. Wander through Plaza de la Independencia, where the remains of Sucre, a key figure in the fight for independence, rest. Admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and Presidential Palace, then continue to Alameda Park, home to South America’s oldest astronomical observatory and a grand statue of Simón Bolívar, the liberator of Ecuador and other Latin American nations.

If time allows, immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the Avenida 24 de Mayo and Ipiales markets, vibrant with colors, aromas, and traditions. Your journey culminates at the Middle of the World Monument, a truly unique place where you can capture the unforgettable moment of standing between two hemispheres before returning to your hotel, filled with memories that will last a lifetime.

The Hidden Secrets of Otavalo Market: One of Latin America’s Finest Artisanal Markets

Savor a meticulously prepared breakfast before embarking on an exclusive excursion to Ecuador’s northern highlands, where two exceptional destinations await.

Your first stop is the renowned Otavalo Market, one of the most iconic in Latin America. Here, among vibrant textiles and colorful woven fabrics, you will meet master artisans who transform tradition into timeless works of art. Take the opportunity to engage with the local culture and enjoy an exquisite traditional meal in a cozy, family-run restaurant.

In the afternoon, continue to Cotacachi, Ecuador’s leather capital. This charming town is celebrated for its fine craftsmanship, where skilled artisans preserve ancient techniques of tanning and shaping leather into exquisite pieces. Witness firsthand the traditional techniques that bring the region’s most exclusive and elegant products to life, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Ecuadorian artistry.

Meeting the “Wise Ones of the Skies” & Exploring the Enchanting Town of San Antonio de Ibarra

Embark on an exclusive experience at the Espejo Condor Reserve, where you will have the rare opportunity to observe the majestic Andean condor, one of the world’s largest raptors and a species at risk of extinction.

If you wish, indulge in a round of golf at a scenic nine-hole course, or for a more immersive experience, take the reins of a horse and explore the breathtaking Andean landscapes at your own rhythm.

Your personalized journey continues to the picturesque town of San Antonio de Ibarra, internationally acclaimed for its exquisite wood and stone craftsmanship. Marvel at delicate hand-carved wooden chests adorned with intricate details, as well as life-size sculptures crafted with unparalleled skill. Witness master artisans in action, transforming raw materials into extraordinary works of art.

After a delightful lunch, return to Quito, enriched with memories of a day filled with culture and beauty.

A Day for You: Spa & Scenic Walks

Today, surrender to relaxation in the midst of breathtaking natural surroundings. We will take you to Papallacta, a destination famed for its thermal waters and spectacular Andean scenery. From the steamy pools, admire the towering mountains that seem to touch the sky, enjoying a moment of pure serenity and renewal.

After a delicious lunch, choose between continuing your spa treatments or venturing into the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve, a stunning ecosystem home to diverse flora and fauna. The landscapes here range from crystal-clear lagoons and winding rivers to pristine forests and towering volcanoes. Whether you seek relaxation or exploration, this experience promises to be truly unforgettable.

A Day to Indulge at Your Own Pace

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure, whether you choose to continue exploring the stunning natural surroundings of Papallacta or simply immerse yourself in pure relaxation with more spa treatments and revitalizing massages.

Let the thermal waters work their magic as you unwind amid breathtaking Andean landscapes, or take a gentle stroll through the misty high-altitude trails, where the air is crisp and wild orchids bloom in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, your private transfer will take you back to the enchanting city of Quito, where you will arrive feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, carrying with you the tranquility of this serene experience.

Between Volcanoes and Culture: A Journey Through Andean History and Tradition

Prepare for a day of discovery, where breathtaking volcanic landscapes, fascinating Inca remnants, and a vibrant artisanal market take center stage.

Your journey begins with a private vehicle transfer southward along the legendary Avenue of the Volcanoes. Towering peaks, some still active, rise majestically on both sides of the road, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring backdrop.

By midday, you’ll arrive at Hacienda La Ciénega, a historic estate dating back centuries, nestled near Cotopaxi Volcano. Take in the elegant colonial architecture and serene surroundings before enjoying a delightful lunch in a setting of pure tranquility.

In the afternoon, visit the Hacienda San Agustín de Callo, an exceptional archaeological site where remarkably well-preserved Inca stone structures remain intact. Built in the 15th century by Emperor Huayna Cápac, this site offers an extraordinary glimpse into the architectural mastery of the Incas.

Your day concludes with a visit to a lively Andean market, where the air is infused with the aroma of exotic spices, and stalls brim with handwoven ponchos, artisanal crafts, and fresh local produce.

Adventure in Cotopaxi: Nature, Wildlife, and Unforgettable Landscapes

This day is dedicated to exploring the magnificent Cotopaxi National Park at your own pace.

For those who love hiking, venture along picturesque trails that offer unparalleled views of Cotopaxi, Ecuador’s second-highest peak, renowned for its perfect conical shape. If you’re passionate about wildlife, keep an eye out for Andean foxes, white-tailed deer, and wild rabbits roaming freely through the park.

For a different perspective, take a scenic cycling route, meandering through lush Andean grasslands and past pristine mountain lakes. Alternatively, try your hand at fishing in the nearby rivers or experience the park on horseback, riding through the rugged yet beautiful terrain of this high-altitude wonderland.

After a morning of adventure, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the hacienda before returning to Quito, carrying with you the serenity and grandeur of Cotopaxi’s landscapes.

Discovering Cuenca & Ingapirca: History, Architecture, and the Inca Legacy

Your IB host will pick you up early in the morning for a short flight to Cuenca, a city often considered Ecuador’s architectural jewel. Upon arrival, you will be captivated by Cuenca’s colonial charm, with its immaculate marble façades, whitewashed buildings, and towering church spires dominating the skyline.

In the afternoon, embark on a private guided tour to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s best-preserved Inca archaeological complex. This was once a key site within the empire, strategically positioned along the Inca Trail.

Admire the precision of the stone walls, explore the awe-inspiring Temple of the Sun, and uncover a fascinating collection of sculptures, tools, and artifacts at the nearby museum.

After a relaxed lunch with breathtaking views, return to Cuenca, where your handpicked luxury hotel awaits, offering a seamless blend of colonial elegance and modern comfort.

Colonial Elegance in Cuenca: A Journey Through History and Tradition

Your tenth day begins with an exclusive walking tour through the enchanting streets of Cuenca, where cobbled pathways, grand cathedrals, and 16th-century mansions transport you back in time.

Stroll through the vibrant Flower Market, where fresh blooms paint the plaza in brilliant hues, creating a picturesque and fragrant setting.

After the tour, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your own pace—whether you prefer exploring hidden corners of the city, visiting artisan workshops, or simply relaxing at your refined boutique hotel.

A Stress-Free Farewell: Departing Ecuador in Comfort

After days filled with exploration and unforgettable adventures, we understand the importance of a smooth and seamless departure.

Your morning begins with an early breakfast, allowing you time to soak in the last moments of Cuenca’s serene charm. Your personal IB representative will meet you at your hotel and escort you to the airport for your short flight back to Quito.

Upon arrival in Quito, you will be assisted with your international connection, ensuring a hassle-free transition as you begin your journey home.

As you depart, you take with you a heart full of memories—from the majestic volcanoes and colonial treasures to the artisanal markets and warm Ecuadorian hospitality.

We look forward to welcoming you again for another extraordinary experience in Ecuador!

Fly to Arequipa and relish a private tour of Peru’s second-largest city.

In the morning, you will be escorted to the airport for your flight to Arequipa. Often called “The White City,” Arequipa is famous for its dreamy colonial-era buildings, crafted from a pearly volcanic rock known as sillar. One of our hosts will help you travel to your hotel to settle in.

During the afternoon, venture out on a private city tour of Arequipa’s most intriguing sights. Capture enviable pictures of the beautiful colonial architecture, and learn about the mummy of Juanita, the preserved body of a young Inca girl found atop a glacier who was sacrificed in an ancient ritual. You will also explore a 16th-century convent before concluding your tour in the main square, Yanahuara, which boasts stunning panoramas of the city and the volcanic peak of El Misti.

Drive to the deepest Canyon in the world, spying some adorable new friends on the way!

Set off with your guide to the small town of Chivay. En route, you’ll stop at Pampa Cañahuas – a reserve inhabited by llamas and other South American camelids. Say hello before wandering to the volcano overlook, Patapampa, where you can gaze over the mighty line-up of snow-capped volcanic peaks.

After checking into your luxury hotel, it’s time to relax and enjoy the beautiful and serene surroundings. Travelers staying at Colca Lodge will be able to unwind in the restorative waters of the lodge’s natural spring pools.

Indulge in a day of wellness in Colca Canyon.

Every traveler deserves the luxury of leisure, and Colca Canyon is the best destination to take advantage of slow, relaxing experiences. Visit one of the many hot springs in the region, soaking in the banks of the River Colca. These warm pools are fed by natural springs that produce water at temperatures of up to 80ºC.  They are rich in minerals known to promote calmness and relaxation.

Explore the wild side of Colca Canyon; then take a private drive to Puno and Lake Titicaca.

Following breakfast at your luxury hotel, head for Condor’s Cross to peer down into the seemingly endless depths of Colca Canyon. This giant Andean fissure is one of the world’s deepest canyons, plummeting deep toward the Earth’s core. While here, see if you can spot some majestic Andean condors. This bird is frequently spotted soaring above the canyon’s abyss. After your morning in the wild, we’ll visit some of the settlements in and around Colca Valley to learn about local customs.

During the afternoon, you will enjoy views of the picturesque countryside during the five-hour journey to Puno. This private car ride is an excellent time to sit back and relax. When you arrive in Puno, your Kuoda host will check you into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Explore a private tour learning about life on Lake Titicaca.

Today, you’ll enjoy a guided private tour – which can be customized to suit those on family tours to Peru – around Lake Titicaca. Travel by boat to the floating islands of Uros, home to an ancient community whose lineage stretches back to pre-Inca times. Learn how the Uros people have managed to preserve their unique way of life through innovative and artistic daily routines that help sustain this one-of-a-kind community.

Next, sail out to Taquile Island, whose residents are honored by UNESCO for their artisanal weaving skills. Eat a lunch prepared by the hospitable islanders, before returning to your hotel in Puno.

Take the scenic route from Puno to Cusco for some unique sightseeing.

After breakfast, settle in on a guided private transfer and tour that will take you from Puno to Cusco. Along the way, you will stop at several intriguing destinations that make the drive even more exciting. The first stop comes at the Pre-Inca Pukara archaeological site. Next up: La Raya, which is at around 14,220 feet, will be the literal high point of your travels. A stunning panoramic sight full of glorious glacier-capped peaks looms in the background. In the foreground, local craftsmen sell their wares in roadside stalls.

After a peaceful lunch en route, you’ll stretch your legs once more at Raqchi. The Inca ruins here stand apart from all the rest. This town once provided rest along the Inca trail and possesses unusual stone-and-mud-brick walls, designed to ward off invaders from the south.

The penultimate destination on your guided bus tour will be the church of Andahuaylillas. Whitewashed on the outside, this church’s seemingly humble exterior veils the extravagance that lies inside. The interior’s lavish frescoes, dazzling gold leaf, and eye-popping wood sculpture have earned it the title of the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.”

Upon arrival in Cusco, we will bring you straight to your hotel where you can rest and relax after your long journey.

Uncover the secrets of Cusco past and present.

After breakfast your private guide will proceed to illuminate Cusco’s rich tapestry woven by its inviting cobblestone streets, charming neighborhoods, and astounding landmarks.

You’ll begin with vehicle, chauffered to the Sacsayhuaman Incan ruins above the city, then you’ll set off on foot to experience the lay of the land just outside of Cusco’s city center with a light hike to the Inkilltambo archaeological site and Temple of the Moon.

On this hike of just a couple hours, you will walk through lush and fragrant eucalyptus forests, until reaching the Inkilltambo ruins with views of the Ausangate mountain in the distance.

Then, you will continue on this original Inca pathway to Temple of the Moon and enjoy a delicious outdoor lunch of local flavors in this beautiful setting before making your way back into the city through the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, known for its whitewashed adobe buildings and quaint blue balconies, home to generations of renowned Cusco artisans.

From there you’ll stop in at the colonial Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, then down to the Santo Domingo monastery, perched atop the most sacred of Incan sites, the Qoricancha temple of the sun. Once bathed in 24-karat gold long-since pilfered by Spanish conquistadors, this temple is now an astounding blend of Incan stonemasonry and colonial architecture.

Make sure to pause along the way to marvel at the incomparable Incan foundations supporting each building in the area, especially the 12-angled stone nestled in a wall that has withstood the test of time (as well as a couple of earth-shattering earthquakes!).

Before leaving you at your hotel, your guide will provide suggestions for fantastic dining in the city.

Exploring the Agricultural Diversity of the Sacred Valley

Today you will weave through the Sacred Valley’s most fertile agricultural lands and experience an unforgettable blend of the past, present, and future. We will take you to visit our friends in a small village and glimpse the promising future that awaits the rural Sacred Valley.

Surrounded by towering mountains and hugging the shore of the breathtakingly blue Lake Piuray, agriculture dominates life in this close-knit place. The women of the village are weaving masters that use Incan techniques, materials, and patterns, and have formed a weaving association providing community development through sales and teachings.

Next, you’ll embark on a unique culinary adventure with Manuel Choqque, a visionary farmer who has revolutionized the cultivation of Andean potatoes. On his farm, you will not only see potatoes in surprising colors and shapes, but you will learn about their ancestral value and how Manuel has reinvented these tubers to turn them into superfoods of the future. From potato tastings to innovative liquors, this experience is a feast of Andean flavors and knowledge that will make you see the potato like never before. Come and discover the taste of innovation in the Andes!

At the end of your delicious farm-to-table lunch, we will bring you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley for an afternoon at leisure.

Relax with a morning train through the cloud forest on your way to visit Machu Picchu!

This is the moment all Peruvian explorers wait for. Board the train in Ollantaytambo to begin your Machu Picchu journey. Watch the cloud jungle pass by through the large glass windows, and see if you can spot some alpacas grazing in the valley! When you arrive in Aguas Calientes, enjoy an early lunch before ascending to the lost Incan citadel.

After a bus ride to the gates of South America’s most notable wonder, you will finally emerge at the top of the world – Machu Picchu. The incredible Inca stone citadel will reveal itself to you as you enter the main gates, a city intertwined with the clouds. Your expert guide will give you a private tour of the ancient city.

Upon conclusion of your tour, return for an evening in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy an excellent dinner on-site at your hotel and fall into bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of the cloud forest around you.

Embark on an exclusive trek up the highly coveted Huayna Picchu!

Today you have the option to hike two different trails – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it’s completely up to you! This will be the culmination of your Machu Picchu luxury tour, so enjoy it however you want. Adventurous travelers who desire something off-the-beaten path should hike the steep slope of Huayna Picchu, offering unrivaled views of Machu Picchu. Please note that only a limited amount of hikers are allowed to climb Huayna Picchu each day and tickets will need to be purchased in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance.

In the afternoon, reconvene in Aguas Calientes and board the return train to Ollantaytambo. Your Kuoda host will meet you at the station and bring you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley for a well-earned evening of rest.

Learn to make Chicha before Exploring Maras and Moray on Horseback

Today we enjoy a special day, visiting several treasures of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, off-the beaten path, and away from the crowds.

Surrounded by colourful mountains, hummingbirds, and horses, you will learn and participate hands on how to make chicha de jora, the traditional drink of the Incas – a type of delicious and refreshing corn beer. You will also experience the ritual ceremonies that take place when drinking chicha.

You will then enjoy a lunch of tasty and colorful Peruvian flavors, descending from diverse cultures.

This afternoon, you will enjoy a day of easy horseback riding along the footsteps of the Incas atop the famous Peruvian Paso horses. We will spend approximately 3 ½ hours riding through the mountains, visiting the Maras salt mines, the quaint, colonial village of Maras, and the archeological site of Moray, an agricultural experimentation and development center of the Incas.

From here we begin our return to the ranch, descending through large expanses of farmland, with spectacular views of the mountains and fields. This part of the ride is a beautiful mix of peaceful landscapes and adventurous riding, perfect for all experience levels.

Upon completion of your tour, your private transport will bring you to your hotel in Cusco.

Tour the bohemian streets of Barranco and bid farewell to Peru

Going home is the worst part of any private Peru vacation, but at Kuoda, we’ll do our best to make it as smooth and hassle-free as possible. First, we’ll take you to Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima. In Lima, a Kuoda host will meet you and take you to the seaside bohemian district of Barranco. See the streets of Barranco come alive as you visit a number of local art galleries and shops that support local artisans.

Finally, enjoy a first-class gourmet meal featuring world-renowned Peruvian flavors in a restaurant of your choice before returning to the airport for your journey home! Buen Viaje!