Beyond Machu Picchu: Peru for Curious Travellers

Most journeys through Peru revolve around its iconic landmarks. But beyond them lies a different side of the country — one that reveals itself only to those willing to slow down, walk a little further, or simply venture off the expected route. That's where our destination expertise makes all the difference. Our Peruvian Explorer itineraries take guests to archaeological sites reached only on foot, into communities where families continue to share traditions that have shaped life in the Andes for generations, and through vast mountain landscapes where luxury is found not in excess, but in space, solitude and a profound sense of place. These are the places that have stayed with us long after we've returned home. Not because they were the most famous, but because they revealed a richer, more nuanced side of Peru — one that rarely makes it into the guidebooks.

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Wiñaywana

Beginning at KM104, the one-day Inca Trail Express climbs steadily for hours through the lush cloud forest to Wiñaywayna — one of the most remarkable Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. Unlike Machu Picchu, only those arriving on foot can explore these beautifully preserved terraces, temples and ceremonial spaces, making it a privilege earned rather than simply visited.

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Patacancha Community

High above Ollantaytambo, the Andes shape everyday life much as they have for centuries. Here, Juan Yupanqui welcomes travellers into his family's world, sharing traditions that have been passed from one generation to the next. From an offering ceremony to Pachamama to learning about alpaca herding and the natural dyeing techniques behind Andean textiles, every encounter is rooted in lived heritage rather than performance.

These are not demonstrations created for visitors, but enduring practices that continue to define life in the highlands.

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Tinajani

Between Cusco and Puno lies a landscape that few travellers ever pause to explore. Hidden within the Andean highlands, Tinajani is a dramatic canyon of sculpted rock formations, ancient caves and vast open plains. Silence is as much a part of the experience as the scenery itself. On a private ranch, the six-tent property offers an intimate base from which to discover this lesser-known corner of Peru. Wander among one of the world's largest forests of towering Puya raimondii, explore caves steeped in local legend, and experience a region that remains wonderfully untouched by the usual tourist trail.

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Chachapoyas

The place to be is at Gocta Natura Reserve, where mornings begin with breakfast overlooking the Gocta Waterfall, birdsong and produce picked fresh from the organic garden. From here, journeys unfold into the heart of the Chachapoyas region. Visit the cliffside sarcophagi of Karajía, perched more than 20 metres above the valley floor, and Kuélap, one of Peru's most extraordinary archaeological sites from the Chachapoyas culture. For early risers, the rewards are unforgettable. Before dawn, the forest comes alive with the spectacular courtship display of more than twenty Andean cock-of-the-rock. This is possibly one of the best places in the country to view their national bird.

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Huayhuash Circuit

The 12-day Huayhuash Circuit winds through one of the most spectacular alpine landscapes in the Andes, where jagged summits rise above turquoise lakes and each day's walk reveals another breathtaking panorama. Far removed from the well-known Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek, the Cordillera Huayhuash offers experienced hikers a Peru of soaring peaks (some of the highest in the country), glacial lakes and high mountain passes that few travellers ever venture to. Our founder, Xin, reckons this is the best multi-day trek she has done in Peru!