Day 1: Lima
Arrival in Lima, reception and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2: Huanuco
After breakfast, transfer to the bus terminal for the journey
to Huanuco. Reception and transfer to your hotel.
Day 3: Kotosh
Free morning to explore Huanuco before a guided visit
to Kotosh, just 4 km from this picturesque highland town.
Nearly 5,000 years old, Kotosh is one of the earliest signs
of civilisation in the Americas. The site features a series
of pyramidal-shaped mounds including a chamber decorated with
a mud sculpture of two pairs of crossed arms, one of the oldest
examples of sculpture in the Andes. Due to the absence of
ruins of housing in the area, it is believed that Kotosh was
a sacred pilgrimage centre rather than an urban settlement.
Day 4: Huancayo
Bus journey south to the city of Huancayo, capital
of the Junin department.
Day 5: Huancayo
Free day to explore the city and its surroundings at your
own leisure.
Day 6: Mantaro Valley
Excursion to the Mantaro valley including a trip
to the Ocopa convent, which houses one of the largest libraries
of all Franciscan convents in Peru.
Day 7: Chanchamayo
Daily excursion to the Chanchamayo valley, the coffee
capital of Peru. Here the growers, using age old techniques
roast the fine arabica beans into what is widely regarded
as the best coffee in Peru.
Day 8: Huancavelica
Fabulous train journey south to Huancavelica on the
affectionately named "Macho train". Running alongside the
Mantaro river and through some stunning mountain scenery,
you will eventually arrive to Huancavelica, a very seldom
tourist frequented town. Transfer to your hotel.
Day 9: Huancavelica
A chance to enjoy Huancavelica and her surroundings
at your own pace. Perhaps a visit to the petrified forest
of Sachapite just outside of the town or just relax in the
termal baths near Lircay. The surrounding countryside is littered
with many ancient ruins awaiting discovery.
Day 10: Lake Choclococha
Spectacular trip to Lake Choclococha, a huge inland
sea across from where lies the remnants of an ancient village.
You will have an opportunity to see many species of bird including
Andean geese and hawk eagles as well as some vicuñas
that come down to drink by the lakeside.
Day 11: Lima
Long trip back to Lima through some unforgettable,
rarely-ventured Peruvian countryside. Transfer to your hotel.
Day 12: Lima
Leisurely day with plenty of opportunity for shopping before
your transfer to the airport and your return flight home.