Incredible 9 Day Peru Itinerary

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Welcome to the adventure that awaits you in the heart of South America. Our meticulously crafted 9 Day Peru Itinerary is more than just a travel plan; it’s a gateway to experiences that will resonate with you long after you’ve returned home. From the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu to the tranquil waters of the Amazon River, every day unfolds a new chapter in a story that you’ll be a part of.

As you embark on this journey with Karikuy Tours, you’re not just a traveler; you’re an explorer stepping into a world where history breathes in the stones of ancient civilizations and nature paints landscapes of awe-inspiring beauty. This is your invitation to immerse yourself in a land rich with culture, adventure, and the warmest of welcomes.

Touchdown in Lima: As your plane descends, catch your first glimpse of the sprawling coastal city of Lima. Here, ancient history and modern vibes blend seamlessly, setting the stage for your Peruvian adventure.

A Warm Peruvian Welcome: Our seasoned guides, known for their deep knowledge and passion for their homeland, will be at the Lima Airport to greet you. From the moment you step off the plane, you’re not just a visitor; you’re our honored guest.

First-Class Transfer: Experience the vibrant streets of Lima as we provide a smooth transfer to your hotel. As the city’s nightlife unfolds around you, it’s a hint of the adventures that lie ahead.

Rest & Recharge: We’ve chosen a hotel that promises not just comfort, but an immersive Peruvian experience. As you settle in, let the ambiance of Lima prepare you for the days to come.

A Night of Possibilities: The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. If you’re drawn to explore, our guides are ready with recommendations. From hidden eateries to local performances, Lima is a city that never sleeps.

Insider Tip: Throughout this itinerary, look out for our “Peru Insider Tips.” These are handpicked suggestions from our experts to ensure your journey is both memorable and authentic.

Welcome to the start of your adventure with Karikuy Tours, where we blend guided explorations with leisure time for your family to discover Peru’s wonders. As we embark on this journey, we’re here to ensure your itinerary meets your every expectation. Welcome aboard, and let’s begin!

Ensuring a Smooth Takeoff Your journey kicks off with a flight to Puerto Maldonado. Please note, it’s crucial to arrive at Lima Airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight to ensure a stress-free departure.

Touchdown in Puerto Maldonado Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by your professional guide, who will be your trusted companion throughout your stay. After a quick stop at our office for necessary permits and a chance to safeguard any excess luggage, you’ll have a moment to capture the scenic confluence of the Madre de Dios and Tambopata rivers.

Sailing the Madre de Dios River A traditional Amazonian boat will carry you to our lodge, gliding along the river for about 40 minutes, offering a first glimpse into the heart of the Amazon.

Welcome to Corto Maltes Amazonia Arriving at Corto Maltes Amazonia Lodge, you’ll be welcomed with a cocktail and shown to your bungalow. After settling in, you might indulge in the culinary delights of our French chef or enjoy the lodge’s amenities.

First Contact with the Jungle At 3:30 pm, you’ll set off on a trek to acquaint yourself with the jungle’s biodiversity. The trek concludes with a stop at a lookout to observe the vibrant birdlife at sunset.

Evening Activities Post-dinner, the Amazon night comes alive with a boat trip to spot the elusive white caiman. Later, you can unwind under the stars, socialize at the bar, or take a night swim in the pool, basking in the Southern Cross’s glow.

Prepare for a day of immersion in the Amazon’s wonders, where every moment promises to be a cherished memory.

A Morning Among the Parrots Rise before the sun at 5:30 am for a short trek leading to a vibrant display of nature’s palette: the parrot clay-lick. Witness the spectacle of various parrot species feasting on nutrient-rich clay, a vital part of their diet.

Breakfast in the Botanical Paradise After the early morning excursion, enjoy breakfast amidst Corto Maltes Amazonia’s lush gardens, home to a plethora of exotic plants and blossoms.

Journey to Monkey Island At 10:30 am, we set sail again on the Madre de Dios River, this time heading to “Monkey Island.” Here, you’ll observe a variety of playful primates in their natural habitat.

Trekking the Tambopata-Candamo Reserve Embark on a 5km trek through the dense tropical rainforest within the Tambopata-Candamo National Reserve. Keep an eye out for the forest’s diverse inhabitants, from towering trees and serpents to monkeys and, if fortune favors, the elusive jaguar.

Sandoval Lake – A Naturalist’s Dream Our trek culminates at the enchanting Sandoval Lake, a haven for wildlife. Here, you might spot hoatzins, kingfishers, cormorants, various monkey species, and even the majestic giant river otters. As the sun sets, a canoe ride on the lake offers a serene and unforgettable experience.

Evening of Relaxation After dusk, we retreat to the lodge where a sumptuous dinner awaits. Post-dinner, the night is yours to enjoy – whether that’s sipping cocktails at the bar, swinging in a hammock to the symphony of the jungle, or unwinding with a professional massage.

As the day’s adventures give way to the night’s tranquility, the comfort of your bungalow and the gentle sway of hammocks offer the perfect end to an action-packed day in the Amazon.

Morning Departure from Corto Maltes Begin your day with a final breakfast at Corto Maltes Amazonia, savoring the memories made in this unique corner of the Amazon. It’s time to bid farewell to the lodge’s serene setting and its warm staff.

Journey Back to Civilization Your guide will lead you back to Puerto Maldonado, ensuring you retrieve any belongings left at our office. Before leaving, seize the opportunity to visit the local market, a vibrant showcase of the region’s agricultural bounty, brimming with exotic Amazonian fruits.

Transfer to Cusco With your senses still tingling from the market’s sights and smells, our team will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport. As you board your flight to Cusco, we part ways with hopes that your journey through the Amazon was as enriching for you as it was our pleasure to guide you through this beautiful slice of Peru. Your guides will await you in Cusco to transfer you to your hotel where you have the evening free to acclimate.

Afternoon City Tour: A Journey Through Time As the afternoon unfolds, our guides will escort you on a journey through Cusco’s most iconic landmarks. The tour commences at 1:45 PM, starting with the Koricancha, or Temple of the Sun. Here, the fusion of Incan and Spanish architecture tells a story of conquest and resilience. Witness the stark contrast between the Incan temple’s earthquake-resistant walls and the Spanish church that has been rebuilt over them.

The Cathedral: A Colonial Treasure Next, you’ll visit the majestic Cathedral of Cusco, housing an impressive collection of over 300 colonial-era paintings and a wealth of gold and silver artifacts. Its intricate interior is a testament to the artistic legacy of the colonial period.

Sacsayhuaman and Beyond The tour then takes you beyond the city limits to the formidable fortress of Sacsayhuaman, perched high above Cusco. Capture breathtaking views of the city and valley below, and marvel at the colossal stones that form this ancient complex. The journey continues to the nearby ceremonial sites of Tambomachay, Qenq’o, and Puka Pukara, each with its own unique history and mystique.

Artisanal Finale Concluding the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local artisan’s shop. Here, you can admire and perhaps purchase authentic artwork, handcrafted sweaters, blankets, and souvenirs—a perfect memento of your Cusco experience.

8:30 AM – Departure from Your Hotel Your day of adventure begins with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel at 8:30 AM. Our tourist transportation will whisk you away to the scenic Cusipata camping ground, the starting point of your exhilarating journey.

Arrival at Cusipata Base Camp Upon arrival at Cusipata, you’ll find all the amenities needed for a day of adventure and relaxation. Store your belongings safely and prepare for the day ahead. Enjoy access to hot showers, toilets, a sauna, and a cozy dining area.

Rafting Gear Distribution and Safety Briefing Our professional river guides will equip you with top-notch rafting gear, including helmets, wetsuits, spray jackets, paddles, and self-bailing rafts. A comprehensive safety briefing will ensure you’re fully prepared for the thrilling experience on the river.

10-Minute Drive to Chuqui & Rafting Commencement A short 10-minute drive takes you to Chuqui, the launch point for your rafting adventure. Get ready to navigate the exhilarating class III & IV rapids of the Urubamba River, offering about two hours of heart-pounding excitement and fun.

Lunch and Relaxation at the Lodge After conquering the rapids, return to our lodge where a delicious hot lunch awaits. Unwind and rejuvenate with a relaxing sauna session, reflecting on the morning’s adventures.

Zipline Experience Over the Urubamba River The adventure continues with our thrilling Zipline experience. Glide over the Urubamba River on two 100-meter cables, offering a unique perspective and an adrenaline rush like no other.

18:00 PM – Return to Cusco As the day’s excitement winds down, we’ll journey back to Cusco, arriving around 18:00 PM. You’ll return with unforgettable memories of a day filled with adventure and the breathtaking beauty of the Andes.

Tour Highlights:

• River Rapids Class: III & IV
• Maximum Altitude: 1,811 masl / 5,941 ft
• Temperature Range: 10°C / 50°F to 18°C / 65°F

Embark on a Sacred Exploration Awake to the anticipation of an 8 AM start, where our friendly staff will greet you at your Cusco accommodation. Today, you’ll venture into the lush embrace of the Sacred Valley, a cradle of Incan heritage and natural beauty.

Pisac’s Colonial Charm and Incan Ingenuity Your first encounter will be with the charming town of Pisac, renowned for its bustling market on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Here, engage in the lively art of bartering for handcrafted treasures. Beyond the market, explore the sprawling Incan ruins that crown the town, a testament to ancient agricultural genius.

Lunch Amidst the Andean Splendor The journey continues to Urubamba, where a delightful lunch awaits, set against the backdrop of the valley’s enchanting scenery.

Ollantaytambo’s Living Inca Town The day’s adventure culminates in Ollantaytambo, a town that stands as a living museum, guarded by its colossal fortress. Here, history breathes through the stones that once witnessed a rare Incan triumph against Spanish forces.

Evening at Ollantaytambo As the tour concludes, we’ll escort you to your hotel in Ollantaytambo, leaving the evening at your leisure to soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this ancient Incan town.

A Morning Journey by Expedition Train Embrace the early morning as you board the Expedition Train, the gateway to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to the iconic Machu Picchu. Our guides will be ready to welcome you upon your arrival, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration.

Machu Picchu Unveiled As the morning sun lifts the mist, you’ll be guided to the majestic entrance of Machu Picchu. We suggest embarking on Circuit 1, offering comprehensive access to the ancient site’s most captivating vistas and structures. Witness the daybreak over the citadel, a moment that’s as ephemeral as it is enchanting.

Guided Tour of the Lost City Immerse yourself in the history and mystery of Machu Picchu with a two-hour guided tour. Let the tales of this architectural marvel transport you back to the time of the Incas.

Optional Hikes for the Adventurous For those who seek an elevated experience, the optional Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike presents a thrilling challenge with panoramic rewards. Schedule your ascent for the morning and reserve the afternoon for Circuit 1 to ensure a full day of discovery.

Leisurely Evening in Aguas Calientes As dusk falls, the quaint town of Aguas Calientes invites you to relax and reflect on the day’s wonders. Enjoy the local hospitality and prepare for the next day’s adventures at your own pace.

Smooth Transitions
Your final day in Cusco begins with a serene morning. As the city awakens, we’ll ensure a hassle-free transfer from your hotel to the airport, setting you on your way to Lima.

Lima’s Farewell
Once in Lima, you will be transferred to your hotel where you have the afternoon and evening free, we will schedule your return transfer to the airport to catch your flight home. Based on your timing and schedule you may have time for the Islas Palomino tour TBD.

Delight in Every Moment
This journey was crafted with you in mind, aiming to provide experiences that resonate and memories that last. We believe that by choosing this adventure, you’ve treated yourself to a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that only Peru can offer.

Share the Joy
If Peru has left an impression, consider telling your loved ones about your experiences. Sometimes, the simplest stories inspire the grandest adventures.

Your Next Step
Remember, the world is full of delightful destinations. If you’ve enjoyed your time with us, we look forward to welcoming you again. For those contemplating, trust in your wanderlust, and you’ll be thrilled by the experiences that await.

Package Includes: 

– All Transfers

– Lodging 

– 3 Domestic Flights (Lima – Puerto Maldonado – Cusco – Lima)

– Partial Meals (Breakfast at all Hotels, All Meals at Jungle Lodge, 1 Buffet Lunch on Sacred Valley Tour, Lunch on Full Day Rafting and Zip Lines Tour, 1 Lunch Lake Titicaca.)

– Transports

– Guided Tours in English w/ Admissions

– Machu Picchu Admissions and Trains.

Not Included: 

– International Airfare

– Huayna Picchu (optional at additional cost)

– Meals (unless specified)

– Gratuities

Prices are based on Double Occupancy

Current Exchange Rate S/. 3.80 = $1.00

**Airfare prices included in your itinerary are subject to availability and changes in fare by the airlines.

Please consider booking in a timely manner as to avoid any airfare price hikes by the airline.

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Karikuy 2023 PDF Guide

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