Exclusive experiences: 8 unmissable luxury trips in Peru

Peru is an accessible tourist destination. Its official currency is the ‘Peruvian nuevo sol’. 3.7 soles are approximately equivalent to 1 US dollar. This makes many tourist destinations considered affordable by travelers from various parts of the world. However, like many popular destinations, in Peru it is also possible to enjoy high-level experiences. These journeys visit emblematic places such as Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Paracas, the Amazon, and, of course, Machu Picchu.

Luxury Train Journey Hiram Bingham to Machu Picchu

The Hiram Bingham train connecting Cusco with Machu Picchu is one of the most exclusive journeys on the planet. It owes its name to the American explorer who revealed the existence of the ‘Lost City of the Incas’ to the world in 1911. The route covers approximately 85 kilometers (about 53 miles) in 4 hours from Poroy station to Aguas Calientes. Tickets can be purchased online or in person in Cusco.

This train offers: welcome cocktail, musical performance at the station, gourmet lunch (outbound) or signature dinner (return), open bar, observatory car, entrance to Machu Picchu, private bus, exclusive guide in the Inca citadel, live band on board, and elegantly decorated carriages. The journey is operated by Peru Rail and is available year-round.

Luxury Train Journey Andean Explorer: Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa

The Andean Explorer train provides a sophisticated experience along one of the highest railway routes in the world, starting in Cusco, passing through Puno, and ending in Arequipa. The three-day journey (Thursday to Saturday) includes visits to the Sumbay caves, Lake Titicaca (Uros and Taquile islands), and, optionally, the Colca Canyon.

It features 16 carriages with refined Andean aesthetics. During the journey, premium services are enjoyed such as: open bar with exclusive drinks, signature cuisine, piano bar lounge, tea time, cocktails and snacks, as well as suite-type cabins with comfortable beds, wardrobes, private bathroom, hot shower, electrical outlets, and more.

Luxury Cruise on Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is one of the most impressive natural destinations in Peru. It is the highest navigable lake in the world, located at an altitude of 3,812 meters (approx. 12,507 feet). To explore places like the Uros islands, Taquile, or even reach La Paz in Bolivia, there are standard boats, but also sophisticated cruises.

Premium cruises start in Puno (Peru) and end in La Paz (Bolivia). They include visits to the city of Puno, the Island of the Sun, Copacabana, Huatajata, among others. The vessels have elegant carpeting, panoramic windows, a minibar, snacks, lunch on board, transfers, entrance fees, and specialized guiding.

Luxury Yacht Excursions in Paracas

The Ballestas Islands, located in Paracas, are one of the most visited coastal areas in Peru. They are situated in the Ica region, south of the country. They are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity. Although most visitors opt for conventional boats, the journey can also be enjoyed on comfortable private yachts.

Yacht trips to the Ballestas Islands have an approximate duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The departure point is the pier of the Paracas Luxury Collection Resort hotel. The yacht offers a reserved journey, without crowds, for a maximum of 12 people. Fauna such as sea lions and seabirds are observed. Explanations are provided in Spanish and English.

Aria Cruise on the Amazon River

The Amazon is the most voluminous river in the world. Along its course in the Peruvian jungle, lush landscapes and extraordinary flora and fauna can be seen, including species like the pink dolphin, the black caiman, jaguars, piranhas, and various primates. Although there are tourist boats, there are also luxury cruises like the Aria.

The Aria is an exclusive cruise ship that features 16 spacious suites. Each measures 22 m² (approx. 237 sq ft) and offers panoramic windows, hot water showers, climate control system, soft lighting, King-size beds, among other amenities. The route includes the Pacaya Samiria Reserve, Ucayali, Marañón, Amazon rivers, and more. There are 3 to 7-day all-inclusive departures.

Delfin Cruise on the Amazon River

The Delfin I, II, and III cruises are high-end vessels that navigate the Amazon in Loreto. Delfin III, the largest, has 22 suites and capacity for 44 people. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, artisanal decoration, spacious beds, private bathroom with hot water, and carefully selected details.

These ships feature common areas such as an elegant lounge, sundeck, pool, stylishly decorated dining room, gym, spa, and boutique. During the journey, sites such as the Amazon National Park, the city of Iquitos, the Marañón River, and Amazonian communities are visited, while admiring the landscapes of the vast river.

Private Yacht to Palomino Islands in Lima

The Palomino Islands are part of Lima’s natural gems. They are located off the coast of the Callao port, about 14 kilometers (approx. 8.7 miles) of navigation away. They are known for their marine life, especially sea lions and Humboldt penguins. A highlight activity is swimming alongside the sea lions in the open sea, an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Although many take collective boats, there is the option to book a private yacht with a capacity for up to 12 people. The route includes the islands of Frontón, Cavinzas, Camotal, and Lorenzo. The duration is 4 hours and starts at 9:30 a.m. The service has all the amenities on board and offers an exclusive experience.

Private Flight Over the Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are one of the country’s most surprising archaeological attractions. They can only be appreciated from the air, through small plane flights departing from Nazca or Pisco. Although most opt for shared flights, there is the possibility of a private luxury overflight.

The private tour can begin in Lima with an air transfer of approximately 4 hours. The flight over the lines lasts 30 minutes and departs from Nazca or Pisco airports. It includes a stop in Paracas and a multilingual guide. The small plane is equipped with all safety elements for a safe and personalized experience.