Off the Beaten Track In Northern Peru

Start your Peruvian adventure in Lima, the capital of Peru, which is full of both historic treasures and contemporary charms. Your hotel tonight will be the Second Home, an artistic boutique hotel that is also the workshop of artist Victor Delfin. After taking a look at the artworks at the hotel, continue the arty theme by exploring the many museums and galleries in trendy Barranco, before popping in to one of its restaurants or heading to the beach, before returning to relax by the pool and take in the ocean views.

A flight from Lima will bring you to Trujillo in the north-west of Peru, a colourful colonial city with pretty churches and streets – but the main draw here is the incredible Inca sites nearby. See Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian city in South America, which was home to around 60,000 people and had a vast wealth of gold, silver and ceramics. The grand plazas and walls of adobe friezes give an idea of its scale and grandeur. The Huaca del Sol (Temple of the Sun) is also nearby – it dates back 1,500 years and was built using millions of adobe bricks by the Moche civilisation, with colourful frescoes inside. Learn more about the Moche civilisation and their practices in the museum. After a day’s sightseeing, enjoy a comfortable room and delicious food at Casa Andina Private Collection, which is a showcase of both Incan culture and modern design.

Take a 4x4 journey to Cajamarca, an attractive colonial city whose former mansions now house stylish hotels and restaurants. Wander around the cathedral and the churches, and retreat to the traditional Laguna Seca hotel, which sits just outside the town in a countryside setting, with a farm and stables, surrounded by the Andes Mountains. The rooms have TVs, mini-bars and Wi-Fi, as well as bathrooms with thermal water, which you can also enjoy in the spa. Wake up to a delicious breakfast buffet before making your way to Chachapoyas.

It’s back in the 4x4 to make your way to Chachapoyas. The distinctive white buildings of the city are surrounded by high-altitude cloud forests, which are home to the impressive ancient ruins left behind by the Chachapoya (‘People of the Clouds’). Nestled amidst the forests are the archaeological site of Kuelap, the mausoleums of Revash and the Gocta Falls, which flow into the Cocahuayco River. Enjoy panoramic views of the waterfalls from your terrace at Gocta Lodge, your base for three nights, where you can also enjoy a dip in the pool and tuck into traditional Andean food.

Chiclayo is Peru’s fourth largest city, and has a fantastic food and cultural scene and a buzzing central marketplace selling everything from fresh fish to the intriguing elixirs of the local brujos (witch doctors). Around Chiclayo, the varied landscapes encompass both majestic mountains and sweeping beaches whose crashing waves are popular with surfers. Discover a multi-layered history of rich colonial societies and ancient civilisations, including the archaeological treasure that is the Moche mausoleum of Sipan. Spend two nights at Casa Andina Select Chiclayo, an ideal base just a few minutes from the downtown area. After exploring this fascinating area, unwind in the pool and relax on the terrace and in the gardens.

After a flight to Cusco via Lima, you’ll be transferred to the Sacred Valley and the Sol y Luna, a stylish Relais & Chateau hotel in the heart of the mountains. Stay in a traditional, cosy casita within 25 acres of exotic, colourful gardens, and take in the views over the Andes from the Jacuzzi on your terrace, and at night, the wood-burning fireplace in your room will keep you warm. Hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, horse riding, exploring Incan ruins and natural wonders, and cookery and craft demonstrations are all on offer here. Alternatively, chill out in style at Sol y Luna.

After taking in some of Peru’s lesser known attractions, it’s time to see one of its best-known – and one of the most famous landmarks in the world – the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Hop on the scenic Vistadome train – a great way to arrive, and check in to Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, a beautiful hotel not far away from the ruins. Enjoy a private tour of the ancient Inca citadel, and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation at your hotel, maybe lingering over a meal, overlooking the Vilcanota River, or strolling in the peaceful gardens, where you’ll find wild orchids and exotic birds.

Hop back on the Vistadome train to Cusco, where you can see more Incan wonders in the capital of the Incas, wander around the historic Plaza de Armas and spend a night at the lovely Aranwa, which is housed in a 16^th-century townhouse and has plenty of character, before catching your flight home the next day.