Travel advisors now have a new way to extend AmaWaterways’ Magic of Colombia river cruise into one of South America’s most storied destinations. The new 5-night land package in Peru is built around a full day at Machu Picchu and comes in two versions: one centred on the Sacred Valley, and one built around Belmond hotels and the Hiram Bingham train.
Beyond the Cruise, Into the Andes
The new package adds five nights in Peru after AmaWaterways’ 7-night Magic of Colombia river cruise and is available only with that cruise. Guests spend time in Lima, the Sacred Valley and Cusco, with a full day at Machu Picchu as the centrepiece. That day includes a roundtrip train ride through the valley, regionally inspired dining on board and a private, expert-led tour of the citadel.
Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel set among green peaks, about 2,430 metres above sea level. Many clients have it on their wish lists, but a visit takes careful planning. The trains, hotels and admission all have to line up. This package handles those pieces, so clients can focus on seeing history first-hand.
Two Versions, One Standard of Luxury
Both versions are luxury journeys that include a private, expert-led tour of Machu Picchu and time in Lima and Cusco. What changes is the feel of the experience. One is built around Peru’s Sacred Valley, its landscapes and its culture, while the other is defined by the Belmond experience from the first night to the last.
Boutique Machu Picchu centres on the Sacred Valley, where clients spend two nights. After exploring the fortress at Ollantaytambo, they board Inca Rail for Machu Picchu, with gourmet cuisine and live entertainment on the way. In Lima, they meet a cacao specialist at El Cacaotal atelier, tour bohemian Barranco and have lunch at La Perlita, a favourite among locals. This version also includes a visit to a textile centre in Chinchero, a gourmet picnic lunch and a local-led walking tour of Cusco, including Koricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun.
Iconic Machu Picchu elevates the experience by wrapping the whole journey in Belmond hospitality. Upon arrival in Lima, guests are welcomed to Miraflores Park, located on the cliffs of the Miraflores district overlooking the Pacific Ocean. From there, the journey continues to Cusco, where they spend three nights at the enchanting Monasterio, a 16th-century historic landmark, followed by a final night back in Lima. The ride to Machu Picchu aboard the Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, is sure to be a highlight for your clients. Guests board 1920s-style carriages, where they’ll be treated to brunch and live entertainment on the way up, and an elegant dinner with Peruvian wines on the return to Cusco.
Beyond Machu Picchu, the days include the Maras salt pans, harvested since pre-Columbian times, and Moray, where the Inca built concentric farming terraces. Guests also see Cusco’s highlights and Sacsayhuamán, a hilltop fortress known for its massive stonework. This version also includes signature dining experiences at Oqre, with contemporary Peruvian cuisine, and MAP Café, with a tasting menu and a pisco sour demonstration.
Find the Best Fit for Your Clients
Boutique suits clients who want more of the Sacred Valley, while Iconic suits clients who want to enjoy Belmond’s accommodations and service from arrival to departure. Both versions suit clients who enjoy history, a bit of adventure and good food and who want to see Machu Picchu without handling the logistics. Offer your clients a journey that begins on the Magdalena River in Colombia and climbs to an Inca citadel high in the Andes.
For more information and marketing resources for this new 5-night land package, visit your Travel Advisor Portal at advisors.amawaterways.ca.
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