Peru: Ancient Civilizations, Living Culture & Extraordinary Journeys

Peru is a destination where ancient history and vibrant contemporary culture come together against some of South America’s most extraordinary landscapes. From the magnificent legacy of the Inca Empire to the colonial elegance of Cusco and the timeless traditions of the Andes, Peru offers a journey filled with discovery.

The iconic Machu Picchu is only the beginning. Explore the Sacred Valley and its remarkable archaeological sites, discover the history and artistry of Cusco, meet local artisans and communities, and experience the extraordinary landscapes of the Andes. Considered by indigenous populations and new age thinkers alike as one of the most powerful energetic locations on the planet, it’s an incredible place to connect with Andean Tradition and also a unique setting for your pick of gourmet restaurants, outdoor thrills, and exceptional exchanges with real local people. The Cusco region is rightfully one of the world’s top tourist destinations, with endless nooks and crannies to be explored. In fact, most visitors are surprised at the number of “off the beaten track” excursions in such a relatively close area, with a remarkable abundance of sacred sites and impressive treks and adventures.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a trip back in time. Breathtaking wide-open spaces with mountain lakes, glaciers, and patchwork fields—many of which are still worked with bull and plow—bring both relief and awe. There are endless routes for hiking and exploring through the incredible scenery of this famous Valley. And moreover, the entire Valley is dotted with ancient ruins and sacred sites, many of them rarely visited.

For adventurous travelers, Peru can extend far beyond the traditional highlights, from the dramatic Colca Canyon to the mysterious Nazca Lines and the Amazon rainforest.

Cradled in lush vegetation and living humid air, binoculars ready for the next thrill, you float smoothly down the great jungle rivers, life source of the Peruvian Northern Amazon Basin and the pristine Pacaya-Samiria Reserve. Cruises offer naturalist guides, innovative Amazonian cuisine and even luxury, as you explore the seemingly endless maze of jungle waterways, including the Amazon River as well as the Ucayali, Marañon and Yanayacu-Pucate Rivers.

From the boat and during stops along the riverbanks, spot caimans, tropical songbirds, black collared hawks, sloths…and performance troops of monkeys! By day, go fishing for Amazonia’s notoriously ferocious piranhas. As the sun sets, set off for an evening’s wildlife excursion with extraordinary stargazing. Rise with the sun for early morning bird watching. On daytime jungle walks, get up close and personal with medicinal trees, insects, and poison dart frogs, and learn more about the different rainforest strata (layers). Swim, canoe or kayak in Yanayacu-Pucate River as you look for legendary pink river dolphins.

You can also visit local communities to get a taste for their way of life in the jungle. The reserve is home to an estimated 42,000 indigenous people within its distinct and dynamic ecological habitat, and park staff helps maintain a healthy natural balance, leading initiatives such as the integration of sustainable agriculture.

The gateway to the Peruvian Northern Amazon is the bustling city of Iquitos, a commercial port on the shores of the Amazon River, so immersed in the deep rainforest that it is only accessible by plane. Cruising through the Northern Amazon not only allows you to gain insight into the vast scope of this great jungle, it is an un-deniable and almost too-close-for-comfort immersion into nature at its most impressive and wildest.

Peru is also one of South America’s great culinary destinations. In Lima, internationally acclaimed restaurants showcase the country’s extraordinary ingredients and multicultural influences, while markets, cooking experiences and regional cuisine offer a more intimate connection to Peruvian culture.

Travel Peru Differently

At Sophia’s Travel, I create private, bespoke journeys that go beyond simply checking Machu Picchu off a list. I carefully combine exceptional guides, meaningful cultural experiences, distinctive hotels and thoughtful pacing to create a journey that feels personal and memorable.

With its heritage alive and well, the local culture is approachable and vibrant. From dining with the locals at a market stall, to joining a traditional celebration, to taking an excursion to a rural community, the Andean way is one of open arms, welcoming visitors to share in its tradition and festivities.

Stay in historic properties, elegant boutique hotels, luxury lodges and remarkable retreats, including properties where the setting itself becomes part of the experience.

Whether your interests lie in Inca history and archaeology, indigenous traditions, gastronomy, photography, adventure or simply discovering Peru’s extraordinary landscapes, your journey can be designed around you.

Discover Peru beyond Machu Picchu—through its history, people, flavors and spectacular landscapes.

Contact us  sophia@sophiastravel.com to book your Mexico Journey
Minimum 5 nights accommodations, transfers and experiences required to book. Thank you for understanding.