Sacred Valley Secrets: Luxury Peru Tour with Andean Explorer

• Day 1-2: The Captivating Colonial Charm of Lima

Kick off your Peruvian odyssey in Lima, the nation's cosmopolitan capital brimming with colonial treasures. Immerse yourself in the historic grandeur of the Plaza de Armas, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with the iconic Cathedral and opulent palaces harking back to Spanish rule. Then delve into the nation's rich Pre-Colombian roots at the Larco Museum, which houses a staggering collection of Incan artifacts, textiles, and precious metals that offer a glimpse into this advanced ancient civilization.

• Day 3-4: The Enchanting Inca Capital of Cusco

Venture into the Andes to Cusco, the archaeological capital of the Americas and gateway to the Sacred Valley. Marvel at the astounding masonry of Sacsayhuaman fortress and Qoricancha, one of the Inca Empire's most revered temples. Wander through the vivid San Pedro Market teeming with vibrant handicrafts before exploring the Baroque splendor of the Cusco Cathedral and bohemian San Blas quarter.

• Day 5-6: The Mystical Citadel of Machu Picchu

All roads lead to the bucket list wonder of Machu Picchu, the supreme bucket-list prize. Board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to be transported in royal style to this ancient citadel, savoring gourmet cuisine and Peruvian wines along the breathtaking rail journey. Spend two days uncovering the enigmatic ruins of this Incan "lost city", a true marvel of ancient architecture and engineering nestled high in the Andes.

• Day 7: The Sacred Valley's Salt Ponds and Terraces

Delve deeper into the Sacred Valley, the lush heartland of the Inca Empire where ancient agricultural practices live on. Witness the visually-striking salt evaporation ponds of Maras, fed by a hypersaline spring that has produced salt using these indigenous methods for over 500 years. Then gaze upon the remarkable terraced circular depressions of Moray, an experimental agricultural lab where micro-climates were created to explore optimal growing environments.

• Day 8-9: Ollantaytambo and Cusco's Treasures

Explore the remarkably preserved Inca architecture and urban planning of Ollantaytambo, highlighted by the immense stone fortress towering over the community. Back in Cusco, revel in the indigenous culture at a traditional Paso horse show and textile demonstrations before having free time to uncover gems like the recently-returned Machu Picchu artifact collection at Casa Concha Museum.

• Day 10-12: The Splendor of Lake Titicaca

Board the glamorous Andean Explorer train for the scenic journey to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Cruise to the fascinating man-made Uros Islands, constructed entirely from buoyant totora reeds by the region's indigenous people. Admire the renowned textiles and traditions on the island of Taquile, with its UNESCO-listed gorgeous gabled edifices and ancient Quechua customs.

• Day 13: Colca Canyon's Majestic Condors

Witness one of nature's grandest spectacles at Colca Canyon, plunging to depths double that of the Grand Canyon. From the dramatic Cruz del Condor lookout, marvel as the majestic Andean condors take flight on the morning thermals for an awe-inspiring display of their impressive 10-foot wingspans soaring over the canyon's dizzying vistas.

• Day 14: Arequipa's Spanish Colonial Marvel

Arequipa's historic center dazzles as a wonderfully preserved Spanish colonial jewel. Admire the 16th century Santa Catalina Convent, a sprawling complex of sugary-hued buildings, chapels, and plazas reminiscent of a medieval town. Peep into the revered Cathedral on Plaza de Armas, and bask in epic views of the city's iconic snow-capped volcanoes lording over the urban cape.

With bucket list icons, indigenous cultural immersion, ancient wonders, and dramatic Andean scenery, this 17-day Peruvian odyssey packs in the very best of this alluring nation steeped in the mysteries of the Inca Empire. An unforgettable adventure awaits the intrepid traveler seeking to uncover the marvels of this South American gem.