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Message Peru Family Adventure – Optional Excursions

/ Lima Walking Food Tour of the Historic City Center Begin your morning with a drive to Lima's historic center, where you'll set off on foot to discover the city's rich history and food culture. Your guide will share stories about Lima's past as you make your way toward Parque La Muralla, located where the old city walls once stood. This park area offers a glimpse into Lima's colonial defenses that protected the city for centuries. At a small restaurant window in the park, you'll enjoy your first culinary experience focused on Peru's renowned seafood and Amazonian flavors. As you continue exploring Lima's center, your guide will point out notable architecture and explain the historical significance of buildings you pass. The walk leads to the main square, Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of Lima where the city was founded in 1535. Here, in a cozy restaurant tucked in a corner of the square, you'll dive into the world of pisco, Peru's national spirit. Your pisco experience comes paired with classic Peruvian street foods with roots that blend Spanish techniques with Andean ingredients. The tour continues through the main square, where your guide will explain the history of important buildings including the Government Palace and Cathedral. Your final stop takes you to a charming café on a side street that specializes in traditional Peruvian desserts. Here you'll sample classic sweets paired with local refreshments. After enjoying these sweet flavors and one last look at Lima's colonial architecture, your private transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel. Note: Please note that food stops and specific dishes may vary depending on seasonality and availability at restaurants, ensuring an authentic and fresh experience each time. Highlights: * Taste all sorts of Peruvian Classics as you explore Lima’s city centre Meals: Lunch Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 5 hours

Larco Museum & Historic Lima Lima and Peru’s story begins around the year 3000BC, long before Inca time. Today, in a short and entertaining manner, we will put everything into perspective, offering you a leisurely introduction to Peru and Peruvian Culture. As you travel to our first stop, Larco Herrera Manor, you will pass by a 2000-year-old adobe pyramid located in Lima's residential areas. Larco Herrera is a renovated mansion that now houses one of Peru's best museums. Inside, you will see a collection of Pre-Columbian art pieces, including metalwork, pottery, and textiles, providing insight into the complex societies of the Andean civilizations. After exploring the museum, you will go to the historic center of Lima. This part of the city has a mix of different architectural styles, reflecting Peru's rich history. Once there, you will enjoy a tasty lunch at Casa Tambo, an old colonial home that has been turned into a Peruvian restaurant. After lunch, you will continue your tour of Lima's center. You will walk along historic streets and visit the main square, experiencing the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your visit will also include a stop at Casa Aliaga, the oldest continuously inhabited private residence in the New World. This house has been owned by the same family since the time of Francisco Pizarro in the 16th century. Visiting Casa Aliaga will give you a unique glimpse into colonial life and the architectural history of Lima. Highlights: * Explore Larco Museum's extensive collection of Pre-Columbian art * Walk through Lima's historic streets and visit Casa Aliaga Meals: Lunch Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 6 hours

4x4 & Sandboarding in Chilca This afternoon, at 1pm, we'll depart from your hotel and head south on the Pan-American Highway for about 55 minutes, making our way towards the Valley of Chilca. As we drive, you'll have the opportunity to take in the desert landscape, with its intersecting valleys flowing from the Andes into the Pacific. Once we reach Chilca, we can make a stop to try some homemade bread before venturing off the main highway and into the desert dunes. With our fully equipped 4x4 vehicle, we'll navigate the desert dunes, experiencing the thrill of driving up and down some small dunes for about 30 minutes. Afterward, we'll find a spot to try our hand at sandboarding, an exhilarating activity that lets us test our skills on the sandy slopes. You'll have about 1 hour to enjoy sandboarding before we begin our journey back to Lima, aiming to arrive by 6pm. Throughout our excursion, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Peruvian coast and experience the thrill of sandboarding in the stunning desert environment. It's an opportunity to explore something a little different to the classic wonders of Peru and create unforgettable memories. Highlights * Off-road driving through desert dunes * Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the desert dunes for about an hour Meals: None Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 5 hours

/ Cusco & Sacred Valley Lunch at Piuray Lake, Andean Offering, Maras & Moray Welcome to Peru! Your trip starts with a flight to Cusco, where your guide will meet you at the airport. You'll then take a private car to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The valley is at a lower elevation than Cusco, about 9,415 feet above sea level, which will help you adjust to the high altitude. On the way, you'll stop at Piuray Lake for lunch. The lake is in a beautiful setting, surrounded by traditional Andean communities. During lunch, you'll take part in a short Andean ceremony called an “ofrenda” with a local shaman. In this ceremony, you'll give thanks to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and ask for her blessing. After lunch, if there's time and you feel up to it, you may visit two interesting Inca sites: Moray and Maras. Moray has circular terraces that were likely used by the Incas for agricultural experiments. Maras is an impressive complex of small white salt ponds on the side of a mountain, where people have been gathering and selling salt for hundreds of years. You'll then go to your hotel in the Sacred Valley. The first day is designed to be a mix of activities and rest to help you get used to the altitude. It's a great introduction to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Highlights: *Take part in an "ofrenda" ceremony with a shaman *See the ancient sites of Moray and Maras Meals: Lunch Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 7 hours Important notes to consider: - This day works great for their first day in the Andes, because Piuray is on route to Sol y Luna. Also, having the Andean Blessing in the beginning adds to the experience. Visiting Maras & Moray is optional, depends on how we are doing with time and energy, has no effect in pricing.

Ollantaytambo Village & Inca Site with local ceramics workshop Start your day by exploring the village of Ollantaytambo, home to the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site. This fortress showcases stunning Inca stonework and is only rivaled by Machu Picchu. The morning is the perfect time to visit, as it tends to be less crowded than in the afternoons. After lunch, we'll make our way to Chichubamba, a traditional farmer community that offers a unique perspective on the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, we'll have the opportunity to join the locals in two hands-on workshops, where we'll learn about local activities such as pottery and chicha production. Upon arrival, your hosts will lead you to their studio for a hands-on pottery class, where we'll discover the art of creating pottery adorned with authentic Andean motifs. Next, we'll visit a local Chicheria to learn about the traditional preparation of Chicha de Jora, a fermented drink dating back to Inca times. This immersive experience will provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions. After a memorable time in Chichubamba, we'll return to our hotel for the night, filled with newfound knowledge and appreciation for the rich heritage of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Highlights * Explore the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site with stunning Inca stonework * Join the locals in hands-on workshops to learn about pottery and traditional Chicha de Jora Meals: Lunch Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 7 hours Important notes to consider: - This day works August 12th or 14th. It is possible to change Ollantaytambo for Maras & Moray if they prefer and have not yet visited it.

Pisac & visit to Andean Community Today, you'll venture away from the tourist routes to explore the Sacred Valley from a different perspective. The first stop will be at the Andean community high in the mountains slopes above Pisac. This traditional village has kept its ancient traditions alive, farming methods, and weaving techniques. Your local hosts will be happy to share and teach you, first-hand, about their traditions. Amaru is a farming community that is slowly becoming known for its agricultural practices, particularly for their tubers. They can grow over hundreds of different types of potatoes in their fields. Take part in the sowing or harvesting, depending on the season. You'll also find various Andean superfoods, such as quinoa, kiwicha, and medicinal herbs. Afterward, join your hosts at the table and share a typical Andean meal. After leaving Amaru, we'll head to Pisac Archaeological site, one of the most amazing Inca sites in the area. If you fancy a walk, we can descend through Inca stone steps from the archaeological site to Pisac village, known for its colorful streets and charming atmosphere. Alternatively, we can opt for a return to our hotel via private transport. It's a day filled with unique cultural experiences and natural beauty, offering an authentic taste of life in the Andean highlands. Highlights * Explore Amaru village and learn about farming practices and daily way of life * Visit the fascinating Pisac Inca Site and Village Meals: Lunch Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 7 hours Important notes to consider: - This day works August 12th or 14th

Llama soft hike & Hummingbird Sanctuary Today, you'll have the opportunity to participate in the Llamapack Project, an initiative that celebrates the traditional usage of llamas in Incan herding communities. Your day will begin with a walk in the surroundings of Urubamba, where you'll be joined by members from the nearby llama herding communities. Together, you will prepare the llamas and go for a short walk to a grazing spot the llamas enjoy. Along the way, there will be much to learn about these beautiful animals. Once you reach the grazing spot, you'll have the chance to relax and enjoy some snacks while taking in the stunning panoramic views and breathing in the fresh mountain air. The snacks will be a traditional Huatia. This is a very local meal based on corn, tubers and other vegetables cooked on the ground using hot stones and mudbricks. This is supposed to be only a snack, but Huatia's tend to be abundant, and you may not want any lunch after it. Afterward, you'll make your way back to the starting point and say goodbye to our new-found friends. Then, continue to the nearby village of Urubamba village, the main town of the valley, where you can explore the plaza, market and maybe grab something to eat if you are still hungry. Finally, head to a nearby hummingbird sanctuary. Up in the hills of Yanahuara, close to a forest of Qeñua trees, locals have implemented beautiful gardens that attract many beautiful hummingbirds daily. Send some time exploring these gardens and learning about this fascinating birds. Highlights * Wander through the stunning surroundings of Urubamba with the llamas * Visit a hummingbird sanctuary Meals: Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: Important notes to consider: - This day works August 12th or 14th. This is a very fun day. Its possible to also add Ollantaytambo, or Maras & Moray to this day too

Local Cooking Class & Markets Spend a day with one of the most charming local chefs in Cusco, Seledonia Mesa! Start your day by visiting the San Pedro Market, where you'll explore the variety of local products available. From the Andean mountains to the nearby Amazon, you'll see and taste exotic fruits such as lucuma, chirimoya, and granadilla, while learning about the range of ingredients used in local Peruvian cuisine. After wandering through the market, we'll head to Seledonia's Kitchen, where you'll have the opportunity to test your culinary skills with the help of a local chef. Together, you can prepare classic Peruvian dishes or experiment with local ingredients to make something new. This cooking class is about having fun, learning about the local culture, and unleashing your creativity in the kitchen. Throughout the day, you'll gain insights into Cusco's cuisine and its cultural significance, as well as the opportunity to engage in an authentic and immersive experience. Whether you're a cooking enthusiast or simply curious about Peruvian cuisine, this hands-on activity promises to be a memorable and enriching part of your journey in Cusco. Highlights * Explore the variety of local products at the San Pedro Market * Test your culinary skills and creativity with a local chef Meals: Lunch Type of Service: Guide Duration: 4.5 hours Important notes to consider: - This is for Cusco City.

Rainbow Mountain Exploration Embark on a journey to one of Peru's stunning Rainbow Mountains, with two options to choose from: Vinicunca or Palccoyo. Both experiences start early in the morning with a departure from Cusco and end in the late afternoon. Option 1 - Vinicunca: A 3-hour drive brings you to the trailhead of the more popular Rainbow Mountain. The challenging 5 km trek (2.5 km uphill, 2.5 km downhill) leads to an elevation of 5,200 m (17,060 ft). Though demanding due to altitude, the summit rewards with breathtaking views. Option 2 - Palccoyo: A longer 4-hour drive leads to this lesser-known gem. The hike is considerably easier, spanning just 1.5 km to reach an altitude of 4,700 m (15,420 ft). Palccoyo offers a more serene experience with only about 150 daily visitors. An optional side trail leads to a small stone forest, providing additional panoramic views of the colorful mountains and surrounding landscapes. Both options include lunch during the return journey. You'll arrive back in Cusco in the late afternoon. Note: Please decide which Rainbow Mountain you prefer to visit at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance so we can properly organize your chosen experience. Highlights: * Choose between popular Vinicunca or serene Palccoyo * Experience surreal, multicolored mountain landscapes at high altitudes Meals: Box Lunch Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 12 to 13 hours Important notes to consider: - This is for Cusco City.

In-Depth Andean Shaman Experience Embark on a unique half-day journey to experience the authentic Andean culture and traditions. This special experience features three shamanic ceremonies performed by shamans from the Q'ero Nation, known for their expertise in various healing practices. You'll participate in a Flower Cleansing Ceremony, a traditional practice believed to cleanse the spirit and provide healing. Next, the Coca Leaf Reading Ceremony offers insights and guidance, a revered Andean tradition that has been passed down for generations. Lastly, an Offering to Pachamama, or Mother Earth, helps connect you with the natural world in a profound and spiritual way. This experience not only allows you to witness these powerful ceremonies but also to gain a deeper understanding and connection with Andean spirituality and customs. Highlights * Participate three original Andean ceremonies Meals: None Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 4 hours Important notes to consider: - This is a more in-depth hiking experience.

White-water Rafting Embark on a rafting adventure on the Urubamba River, with different options available depending on your accommodation location. The Urubamba River flows through the heart of the Andes, offering various segments suitable for rafting throughout the year. If you're staying in Cusco city, the recommended option is to drive through the mountains to Chuquicachuana in what we usually call the Sacsayhuaman Valley. Here, you'll gear up for a full-day expedition and conquer class III and IV rapids as you navigate an 11 km stretch of the river through a canyon. This more challenging route provides an adrenaline-filled experience for those seeking adventure. For travelers staying in the Sacred Valley, there are other segments of the Urubamba River much closer to your accommodation where a half-day rafting activity can be done. The category of rapids within the Sacred Valley is lower, closer to class II and III rapids, making it a more leisurely ride compared to the Chuquicachuana section. All rafting activities are seasonal in nature. During the rainy period, which usually runs from roughly December to March, the difficulty of the rapids can increase. However, throughout the year, they remain fairly manageable for participants with basic swimming ability, and no previous rafting experience is necessary. After your time on the river, you'll enjoy a riverside lunch before returning to your accommodation. Remember to pack a bathing suit, a small towel, and a pair of sandals or tennis shoes for the excursion. Highlights * Navigate class III-IV rapids at Chuquicachuana or class II-III in Sacred Valley * Enjoy a riverside lunch after your river adventure Meals: None in Sacred Valley Version / Lunch in Chuquicachuana Version Type of Service: Private Transport & Guide Duration: 4 hours (Sacred Valley) / 6 hours (Chuquicachuana)

/ Pricing Lima Walking Food Tour of the Historic City Center £ 350 total per group Larco Museum & Historic Lima £ 430 total per group 4x4 & Sandboarding in Chilca £ 850 total per group Cusco Lunch at Piuray Lake, Andean Offering, Maras & Moray (Aug 11th) £ 430 total per group *This pricing is because we already have guide and transport for this day (Aug 11th) Piuray Lake, Andean Offering, Maras & Moray (other days) £ 800 total per group *This pricing is because we already have guide and transport for this day (Aug 11th) Ollantaytambo Village & Inca Site with local ceramics workshop £ 800 total per group Pisac & visit to Andean Community £ 700 total per group Llama soft hike & Hummingbird Sanctuary £ 980 total per group Local Cooking Class & Markets £ 600 total per group Rainbow Mountain Exploration £ 980 total per group In-Depth Andean Shaman Experience £ 1150 total per group White-water Rafting £ 980 total per group