Wildlife and Wonders of Peru: The Amazon to Machu Picchu | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Wildlife and Wonders of Peru: The Amazon to Machu Picchu

PRIVATE TOUR - 10 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 4761

Private Tour Highlights

  • Taking in 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture at the Museo Larco in Lima
  • Embracing your inner child at the beautiful Inkaterra Butterfly House in the Amazon
  • Setting foot in the magical Incan citadel, Machu Picchu; a once-in-a-lifetime experience
  • Getting up close to the fascinating variety of Amazonian wildlife, like the endangered River Otter, Toucans, Monkeys and Sloths
  • Interacting with and learning about the culture of the Ese Eja, an indigenous ethnic group in the Amazon
  • Shopping in San Pedro Market, a lively, local market where one where one can purchase local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to interact with the locals.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

The Urubamba River flows below the Mountain where Machu Picchu sits.  This River flows into the Amazon of Peru.  Yampu encourages all nature lovers to visit the Peruvian Amazon before pressing onto Machu Picchu.  The Amazon is a rough place for us westerners.  We have searched the entire Amazon and this lodge is our pick for most comfort.

This Yampu tour begins with a tour of Peru’s capital city Lima before traveling deep into the Amazon to the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica. The most luxurious and romantic lodge in the pristine Peruvian Amazon, the Reserva Amazonica is located in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, adjacent to the Tambopata National Park. You will enjoy three nights here.  We can arrange for more nights and deeper exploration into the Amazon if you like.

The Reserva Amazonica was built in 1975 by Peru’s eco-pioneers, José and Denise Koechlin. The lodging is surrounded by a 40-square-mile private ecological reserve with abundant wildlife, encompassing two-thirds of all the living animal and plant species in the world. Here the flora and fauna ranges from giant and colorful macaws, to owls and tamarind monkeys.

Once you emerge from your Amazonian Oasis, you will fly up to Cusco, a city that sits near 11,000 feet in the Andes.  We will spend some time acclimating and exploring the lovely Inca and Spanish city.  You will be in for many surprises and fall in love with this city.

Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. These new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins.  We recommend booking with plenty of notice. With plenty of notice Yampu can get other permits needed for special access.

Inclusions
Prices include round-trip airfare from Lima to Cusco; round-trip airfare from Lima to Puerto Maldonado; hotel accommodation including daily continental or buffet breakfast; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; guided tours in English including all entrance fees; meals where specified; and all meals and excursions at the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica.

Note:
*Cost includes Vistadome train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Vistadome is ideal for travelers who want a personalized immersion of Andean culture with traditional dances and music along the way. This train features panoramic windows, leather seats, new table design as well as heating and air conditioning.

*Deluxe service Hiram Bingham train features an observation wagon with a bar and two dining cars. In addition, this train includes a gourmet brunch on board, exclusive bus return to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu as well as a guided tour. Afternoon tea in the Sanctuary Lodge, pre-dinner cocktails and a 4-course, a la carte dinner is also included. The train does not operate on Sundays. Upgrades available from Vistadome to Hiram Bingham Deluxe; please ask your Yampu Tour Consultant for the cost of the upgrade.

*Due to weight and space restrictions on the boat (10 kilograms / 22 pounds per person), we recommend that you bring only necessary clothing and equipment to the lodge. Extra luggage may be stored at the Reserva Amazonica office in Puerto Maldonado.


*The program at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica is only a suggested itinerary. You may opt for any of the following tours:

Short 2 to 3 hour trips
Trail System
Walk along one of the trails that extend eight kilometers (six miles) in the Reserva Amazonica Natural Reserve discovering the incredible ecosystem of the Amazon rainforest. The trails offer an excellent introduction to the environment of the jungle as you walk past exotic rainforest flora and fauna.
Difficulty Level: I

Twilight River
On this guided afternoon boat ride you will witness the enchanting transformation as the rainforest transforms into a thriving nocturnal environment. As you explore, search for nightjars, owls, capybara and caiman, learning about their habits as you share their paradise. On a clear night, the stars of the southern hemisphere seem to stretch on forever against the deep black sky.
Difficulty Level: I

Rainforest by Night
After the sun goes down the rainforest becomes an entirely different realm. Take a two-hour interpreted walk into the Amazonian ecosystem, following the trails at Inkaterra’s ecological reserve. You will learn to interpret the jungle by night, listening to amazing nocturnal sounds as you become aware of the animal species that emerge after dark. Learn why, and how, some creatures come alive while the rest of the world sleeps.
Difficulty Level: I

Butterfly House
Spend an hour at Inkaterra’s Butterfly House in Puerto Maldonado and come face-to-face with the colorful butterflies of Peru and Tambopata, a region that is home to more butterflies than any other place on earth. You will see many of them here, in a naturalized habitat full of flowers and tropical plants. Learn about the amazing adaptability of the butterfly, and simply enjoy the graceful beauty of these colorful insects. Located near the airport, the Butterfly House also includes a reception area as well as a café.
Difficulty Level: I

Native Farm
A 15-minute boat ride takes you to a nearby farm for a look at the complicated, yet interesting, techniques necessary for successfully farming in the rainforest habitat. Be prepared for an exotic taste surprise, as local vegetables and fruits will be sampled to complete the experience.
Difficulty Level: I

Half-day trips
Canopy and Anaconda Walk
A five-minute boat ride will take you to the Canopy Inkaterra Interpretation Center. After ascending the first tower, 30 meters above the forest floor, you will literally walk through the treetops for one and a half hours along suspension bridges that link eight observation platforms. Enjoy landscapes that would be unimaginable from below, while on the lookout for giant strangler fig trees, orchids, toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, monkeys or sloths. After your descent from the canopy, experience the Anaconda Walk for 30 minutes along the 200-meter wooden bridge over the Aguajales swamps. In this lush ecosystem, you will observe the various species of amphibians, serpents, birds, mammals and abundant flora and trees of this flooded marshland. The walk finishes by returning to the lodge.
Difficulty Level: II
Scheduled: Morning and afternoon

Lake Sandoval
A 30-minute boat ride will take you to the Tambopata National Reserve for a one-hour walk to Lake Sandoval. Upon arrival at the pristine lake, board a wooden canoe and glide across the beautiful, mirror-like oxbow lake that is home to the endangered giant river otter, as well as red howler monkeys, macaws, anacondas, point-tailed palm creepers and side-neck turtles. You will spend two hours on the lake so you can fully appreciate all that Sandoval has to offer.
Difficulty Level: II

Concepción
A 35-minute ride upriver will take you to Concepción, home to a remarkable Botanical Garden with more than 200 different species of rainforest plants. An in-depth explanation familiarizes you with the processing, uses and benefits of these traditional indigenous plants, including fascinating native medicinal uses. Next, enjoy a 30-minute canoe trip on a small lake and watch for wildlife including turtles, giant river otters, sun grebes, nightjars and herons. The activity ends at Concepción Educational Research Facility, where exhibits, designed by the National Geographic Society, tell the story of the remarkable Madre de Dios region.
Difficulty Level: II

Ese’ Eja Experience
Transfer along the river 20-minutes by boat you will visit a local Ese’ Eja family. Here enjoy an introduction to this indigenous community learning about their lifestyles and culture with simultaneous translation of the Inkaterra interpreter. Return to the lodge by boat.
Difficulty Level: I

Full-day Excursions:
Native Community
After traveling one-hour by boat, toward the Bolivian border, arrive at the Palma Real native village, home to some 70 Ese’ Eja families. A two-hour visit offers you insight into the traditions and culture of this indigenous ethnic group, whose simple dwellings inspired the design of the Reserva Amazonica Lodge. You will learn about their lifestyle and livelihood, hunting and farming techniques, and the challenges the Ese’Eja face in a changing world.
Difficulty Level: I

Gamitana Creek
A 35-minute motorboat ride from the lodge will take you to the magic world of Gamitana Creek. The sights, scents and sounds of the jungle will surround you as you enjoy a two-hour trek rambling through the rainforest along the banks of this winding, dark-water creek. Reaching the embarkation point of this creek, board a canoe and navigate your way back downstream, appreciating the rich plant and animal life along the way. You will return to Gamitana Farm in time for a well-earned picnic lunch, followed by a short guided tour to learn about the workings of this farm.
Difficulty Level: III

Tambopata
Following a short motorboat ride from the lodge, this activity begins with a walk to Lake Sandoval. Be on the lookout for hoatzin, herons and ospreys as you glide across this mirror-like oxbow lake in a wooden canoe. Your excursion continues with a hike through the reserve to Concepcion. The surrounding vegetation offers possible sightings of paiche and black caimans; red howler, brown capuchin and squirrel monkeys; and the extremely rare and critically endangered giant river otter. A picnic lunch at Concepción farm is followed by a guided visit to a garden containing more than 200 medicinal plants. Perhaps you would like to practice archery with native bows and arrows.
Difficulty Level: III
Exclusions

Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 4761

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Flight to Lima

Upon arrival to Lima, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Upon arrival to Lima, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Day
2

Private Half Day City Tour of Lima and Larco Museum Tour

This afternoon, enjoy a private city tour of Lima, one of the most important cities in South America since its founding in 1535. As you journey through the historic center of the city, admire the beauty of San Martin and its major squares, the Cathedral, and the Government Palace. Visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. This tour also includes a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Please note that the Cathedral is open Monday through Saturday.

During your tour you will also visit the Museo Larco. Founded in 1926, the Museo Larco chronologically showcases the past 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture, including its pre-Colombian history. The museum is located in a beautiful 18th century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th century pre-Colombian tomb. After exploring the Museo Larco, enjoy complimentary cocktails and appetizers at the onsite Larco Cafe overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens.
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Lima_Peru
Day
3

Lima - Puerto Maldonado

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado.

Upon arrival to Puerto Maldonado, begin to experience the enchantment of the rainforest during the 45-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River. Upon arrival at the lodge, settle into the beautiful cabana and enjoy lunch in the dining room. Today, choose from the 14 different excursions available at the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica.

On the first day, Yampu recommends a guided trek along one of the trails that extend eight kilometers (six miles) in the Reserva Amazonica Natural Reserve to discover the incredible ecosystem of the Amazon rainforest. The trails offer an excellent introduction to the environment of the jungle while walking past exotic rainforest flora and fauna. Yampu recommends the Twilight River excursion for this evening. On this guided afternoon boat ride, witness the enchanting transformation as the rainforest transforms into a thriving nocturnal environment. Search for nightjars, owls, capybara and caiman, learning about their habits as while sharing their paradise. On a clear night, the stars of the southern hemisphere seem to stretch on forever against the deep black sky.

Enjoy cocktails before dinner, served in the main dining room from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. After dinner, one may retire early or join the lodge staff to talk about the experience of life in the rainforest. Listen to the intriguing sounds of the jungle at night.
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butterfly
Day
4

Sandoval Lake

Breakfast read more...

Breakfast begins at 5:30 a.m. for those who want to avoid the heat and enjoy nature at its fullest. A full buffet breakfast is served from 7 to 9:30 a.m. This morning a visit to Sandoval Lake is suggested. Take the 30-minute boat ride to the Tambopata National Reserve for a one-hour walk to Lake Sandoval. Upon arrival at the pristine lake, board a wooden canoe and glide across the beautiful, mirror-like oxbow lake that is home to the endangered giant river otter, as well as red howler monkeys, macaws, anacondas, point-tailed palm creepers and side-neck turtles. Spend two hours on the lake to fully appreciate all that Sandoval has to offer.

Return to the Inkaterra lodge for lunch before departing on the next adventure. Yampu Tours recommends the Canopy and Anaconda Walk. A five-minute boat ride takes one to the Canopy Inkaterra Interpretation Center. After ascending the first tower, 30 meters above the forest floor, literally walk through the treetops for one and a half hours along suspension bridges that link eight observation platforms. Enjoy landscapes that would be unimaginable from below, while on the lookout for giant strangler fig trees, orchids, toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, monkeys or sloths. After the descent from the canopy, experience the Anaconda Walk for 30 minutes along the 200-meter wooden bridge over the Aguajales swamps. In this lush ecosystem, observe the various species of amphibians, serpents, birds, mammals and abundant flora and trees of this flooded marshland. If one so wishes, one may extend their excursion and appreciate the sunset from one of the towers.

Once at the lodge, enjoy a cocktail in the main dining room or during the daily nature presentation in the Ecomedia Center. Dinner starts at 7:30 p.m. ...read less

Sandoval_Lake_Peru
Day
5

Ese Eja Community

After breakfast this morning, enjoy a possible excursion to the local Ese Eja community. After traveling one-hour by boat toward the Bolivian border, arrive at the Palma Real native village, home to some 70 Ese Eja families. A two-hour visit offers insight into the traditions and culture of this indigenous ethnic group, whose simple dwellings inspired the design of the Reserva Amazonica Lodge.

Learn about their lifestyle and livelihood, hunting and farming techniques, and the challenges the Ese Eja face in a changing world. Lunch is included during this excursion. This afternoon, return to the Reserva Amazonica Lodge for dinner and an evening at leisure. ...read less

Peruvian_flower
Day
6

Flight to Cusco

Enjoy a full breakfast before departure. A 45 minute return trip by boat on the Madre de Dios River takes guests to Puerto Maldonado, where they may visit the Butterfly House. Peru boasts the greatest variety of butterflies in the world, with 3,700 known species. Many of these can be seen at the Butterfly House, a showcase for the variety, beauty and adaptability of these fascinating insects. After, make your way to the airport to catch your flight to Cusco.

Upon arrival to Cusco, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
The elevation in Cusco is approximately 3400 meters (11200 feet), so we highly recommend resting as soon as you arrive for a few hours, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, or heavy meals. Please consult with your physician for additional details.
Cusco is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins of the old Inca city became the foundation for the Spanish architecture you see today, and many of the stone walls that line the streets were built by the Incas.
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Locals_Cusco_Peru
Day
7

Tour of Cusco

This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco where you will visit the Korikancha Temple, or Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During your tour today you have the option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market. The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University. San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where you will receive a briefing about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is a great opportunity to interact with the locals either selling or purchasing items from the market.

This afternoon there will be time for lunch (lunch not included) before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsayhuaman Fortress. Later in the afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsayhuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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inca_walls_cusco_peru
Day
8

Machu Picchu With Private Guided Tour

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to the train station.

The train will take you through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, you will board a bus to Machu Picchu and then have a private guided tour of the ruins. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, at the entrance of the ruins, before returning to your hotel at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the town of Aguas Calientes.
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Machu_Picchu_Peru
Day
9

Morning at Leisure at Machu Picchu Vistadome Train to Ollantaytambo

Enjoy today at your leisure. You may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, we will board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, you will be met at the train station and transfer to your Cusco hotel.

Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. If you decide to return to Machu Picchu, new regulations require you to be accompanied by a guide at all times. Please contact your Yampu travel consultant if you think you would like to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).
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Machu_Picchu_hike_ Aguas_Calientes
Day
10

Flight Home

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flights home.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to the airport for your flights home.

Lima, Peru

Cusco, Peru

Machupicchu, Cusco, Peru

Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata, Madre de Dios, Peru

Places You'll See

  • Peru_Lima_city

    Lima

    Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.

  • Peru_Cusco_city

    Cusco

    Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).

  • Machu Picchu

    Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

  • Puerto-Maldonado

    Puerto Maldonado

    Puerto Maldonado is often a starting point for jungle trips, but the city itself has some exciting attractions of its own. Enjoy some ice cream while taking beautiful pictures in Plaza de Armas, the main square. Visit the Rescue Snake House to see several species of rescued reptiles. Or take a trip to the markets for souvenirs.

Hotel Options

Featured Accommodation

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica

An eco-luxury lodge in front of Madre de Dios River, Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica has 35 wooden cabanas inspired in the Ese’Eja culture. 540 bird species have been inventoried on hotel grounds, deep in the rainforest. The property offers a varied selection of a-la-carte excursions, including a visit to the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway, a bridge system at 30 meters above the ground, allowing adventurers to enjoy a privileged view of the Amazon. Guests can also relax at ENA Spa and enjoy treatments using natural botanical ingredients.

Puerto Maldonado ,

4 Star Properties

Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima

Lima : Innside by Meliá Lima Miraflores

Cusco : El Mercado

Cusco : Palacio Manco Capac 

Machu Picchu : El MaPi

Machu Picchu : Casa del Sol

5 Star Properties

Lima : Hilton Lima Miraflores

Lima : Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima

Cusco : Inkaterra La Casona

Cusco : Palacio del Inka by Libertador, Cusco

Machu Picchu : Sumaq Hotel

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Luxury Properties

Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza (Ocean View)

Lima : JW Marriott, Lima

Cusco : Belmond Palacio Nazarenas

Cusco : Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (Mountain View With Terrace)

Testimonials

Debra

Traveled November, 2008

I had a great time and would definitely recommend this trip

The Inca Trail and Amazon were awesome! The Inca trail was definitely the highlight. In terms of feedback, overall, the way the schedule worked out, a little too much time in Lima (the shopping tour with Kuzi was great-felt like I was hanging out with one of my girlfriends). I was also done with the hike, Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu by lunch, so I had plenty of time to explore Agua Calientes that same day. I had a great time and would definitely recommend this trip. Thx!

Traveled To

Emily P.

Traveled October, 2014

Everything was incredible!

Everything was incredible! What an amazing experience we had with Yampu. I cannot thank you enough! I’ve already passed your name along to two people. Everything was easy, smooth but went by too quickly. Also, I wanted to make note that we had a guide who was excellent. He was very kind and accommodating and knew A LOT about the wineries. Please continue to refer him and let your partner in BA know how much we enjoyed him. Thank you for everything and I will gladly book through you again!

Traveled To

Tom

Traveled November, 2015

It was the trip of a lifetime literally and for many reasons

The Amazon portion of my trip was fabulous.The jungle is magical and waking up and spending every day and going to sleep every night to the cacophony of sounds from the boiling over of life the jungle and the rivers offer is amazing. As to the Sacred Valley portion, the guides were all very good, interesting, knowledgeable, and definitely had personality. Not having to stand in line for or worry about entrance tickets was great. Having our baggage dealt with so efficiently and securely was a real, real luxury that we really appreciated. If I were asked by ANYONE how our Yampu experience was I would say unequivocally that you did a fabulous, flawless really, job. Thank you. It was the trip of a lifetime literally and for many reasons, and I couldn’t be more pleased overall how it played out, and I will always remember it fondly, and your contributions with gratitude and admiration.

Traveled To

Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

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