JUNE 25 - 29, 2018
AREQUIPA · lake titicaca · CUSCO
4 nights | From $3999
Based on popular demand we created a Peru post trip extension to Lake Titicaca, one of the most culturally and architecturally stunning areas of Peru that does not disappoint.
We fly to Arequipa where we will visit this beautiful white city with views of the majestic volcano, and take a scenic drive to visit the Sumbay Caves before we arrive in Lake Titicaca, where we take a motor boat trip to some of the more unique islands of Lake Titicaca, starting with the utterly fascinating Uros Islands.
Embark on the ultimate travel adventure. Explore the Peruvian Andes and experience one of the world’s highest train routes aboard South America’s first luxury sleeper train. Discover the Spirit of the Andes as you journey aboard this luxury train from Puno to Cusco. Let yourself be enchanted by some of South America’s most beautiful scenery as you travel along one of the highest train routes in the world.
Sister to the celebrated Belmond Hiram Bingham train, your time aboard promises to be every bit as inspiring as your off-board moments of discovery. Inviting, indulgent accommodation and refined Andean cuisine ensure an unforgettable journey. Observation, Lounge and Spa Cars are are the perfect places to unwind, designed to offer modern comfort with traditional flourishes.
Package Highlights:
• Gourmet meals featuring refined Andean flavors, served with sophisticated flare.
• Fresh, locally sourced ingredients at every meal.
• Tour Raqch'i, an Inca archaeological site.
• Witness an unforgettable sunset over La Raya Mountain range.
• Take a traditional boat ride out to the Uros Islands, stunning man-made lands carefully created from woven reeds that are constantly being replenished.
• Full Day Tour of Lake Titicaca, and its floating inhabited islands.
• Lunch on Taquile Island, which is inhabited by Quechua speaking natives who have developed both an efficient and original social system and a fine hand weaving technique over several generations.
• Admire the eclectic beauty and rich diversity of life on Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America and home to many islands.
• Enjoy a private lunch on Collata Beach, Taquile island, with demonstrations from traditional dancers and artisanal workers.
• Go on an early-morning excursion to the spellbinding, rugged scenery of Lake Lagunillas.
• Visit Sumbay Caves, home to fascinating cave paintings estimated to be almost 8,000 years old.
Space is limited. Call us today to book this tour: 773.772.9666.
Gay Friendly, Luxury Accommodations
Belmond Andean Explorer
Experience true relaxation as you step into your own personal sanctuary. Belmond Andean Explorer offers four types of cabins, each with its own inviting en-suite bathroom and shower. Interiors seamlessly blend modern sophistication with traditional Andean accents. Designs draw inspiration from Peru’s hand-woven fabrics, with textures chosen to match the soft feel of Alpaca wool.
Casa Andina Private Collection, Arequipa
Casa Andina Private Collection Arequipa is raised on the old “Casa de la Moneda” (old Mint), a national historic landmark built in 1794, what makes our hotel more a living museum than a hotel. Its strategic location only a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa makes it the ideal choice for business and leisure travelers.
TitiLaka Lodge
Built atop a private peninsula jutting into the waters of Lake Titicaca-Peru, Titilaka is an 18 room all-inclusive luxury experience lodge and a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux fellowship. At the meeting place of millenary history, ancient and living cultures, and natural beauty, Titilaka is an unforgettable portal to the past.
Andean Explorer - Spirit of the Andes Itinerary
Day 1 ~ Cusco to ArequipaMorning flight from Cusco to Arequipa, Peru. Nicknamed the 'White City' for its enchanting white-stone buildings, Arequipa is one of the most important settlements in Peru. Visitors here will discover a delightful mix of indigenous and colonial Spanish Baroque architecture, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the buzzing markets, the enchanting Catholic churches, or simply soak up the ambiance.
After a morning tour of the city we break for a delicious typical lunch in an enchanting setting, and continue exploring this gorgeous city in the afternoon with time for sightseeing and shopping.
This evening you will be invited for a welcome cocktail reception at Arequipa Station. Thereafter, we depart Arequipa station and settle in for a gourmet dinner. Step aboard and take the opportunity to unwind in your plush cabin. Soon you are invited to one of the two sophisticated restaurant cars for dinner. A fine dining experience of refined Andean cuisine awaits.
Discover the Spirit of the Andes as you journey aboard this luxury train from Arequipa, Puno, and Lake Titicaca to Cusco. Let yourself be enchanted by some of South America’s most beautiful scenery as you travel along one of the highest train routes in the world.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Andean Explorer Luxury Sleeper Train
Day 2 ~ Lake Titicaca ExtensionThis morning experience the magical sunrise over Lake Titicaca. After an early breakfast onboard we our Lake Titicaca. Enjoy a complete day of sailing in Titicaca Lake, the highest navigable lake in the world. Depart early in the morning for the floating islands of Uros, where the inhabitants still live as they did centuries ago, on floating islands they make with the totora reeds that grow on the lake.
Continue sailing towards Taquile Island for a 30 minute hike towards its small town inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives who have, over the generations, developed both an efficient and original social system as well as a refined handweaving technique.
Enjoy a private lunch on Collata Beach, Taquile island, with demonstrations from traditional dancers and artisanal workers.
After lunch, we will explore the island and you can appreciate the magnificent views of Lake Titicaca, then returning to the boat to arrive back in the afternoon just in time for High Tea at the Lake Titicaca Station.
Once onboard, soak up the scenery from the Observation Car, or perhaps get to know your fellow travelers over cocktails in the Lounge Car. As evening descends return to the restaurant car for a sensational dinner as the train continues on its journey into the Cusco region during pre-dinner cocktails and live music.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, High Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Andean Explorer Luxury Sleeper Train
Day 3 ~ Lake Titicaca ExcursionAwake to sunrise over Marangani and enjoy an early delicious breakfast, the ideal way to prepare for the day ahead. On the way we will pass La Raya Mountain Range. An impressive stretch that marks the divide between Cusco and Puno, La Raya is a photographer's dream. The range features a number of impressive snow-dusted peaks, while llamas and alpacas casually graze at the lower levels.
Soon we arrive at Raqchi, and tour this impressive but less visited Inca settlement which boasts the impressive and monumental Temple of Wiracocha, a diety of the Incas.
We return to the Andean Explorer to enjoy another gourmet meal with brunch beautifully presented. Savor the panoramic views as the train journeys into Cusco, a colorful city that was once the capital of the Inca empire.
All too soon the journey comes to an end. Bid farewell to your crew and disembark for your onward travel arrangements.
Meals Provided: Breakfast and Brunch
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