Peru - Off the beaten track

Arrival in Lima, reception and transfer to your hotel.

After breakfast, transfer to the bus terminal for the journey to Huanuco. Reception and transfer to your hotel.

Meals: B

Free morning to explore Huanuco before a guided visit to Kotosh, just 4 km from this picturesque highland town. Nearly 5,000 years old, Kotosh is one of the earliest signs of civilisation in the Americas. The site features a series of pyramidal-shaped mounds including a chamber decorated with a mud sculpture of two pairs of crossed arms, one of the oldest examples of sculpture in the Andes. Due to the absence of ruins of housing in the area, it is believed that Kotosh was a sacred pilgrimage centre rather than an urban settlement.

Bus journey south to the city of Huancayo, capital of the Junin department.

Free day to explore the city and its surroundings at your own leisure.

Excursion to the Mantaro valley including a trip to the Ocopa convent, which houses one of the largest libraries of all Franciscan convents in Peru.

Daily excursion to the Chanchamayo valley, the coffee capital of Peru. Here the growers, using age old techniques roast the fine arabica beans into what is widely regarded as the best coffee in Peru.

Fabulous train journey south to Huancavelica on the affectionately named "Macho train". Running alongside the Mantaro river and through some stunning mountain scenery, you will eventually arrive to Huancavelica, a very seldom tourist frequented town. Transfer to your hotel.

A chance to enjoy Huancavelica and her surroundings at your own pace. Perhaps a visit to the petrified forest of Sachapite just outside of the town or just relax in the termal baths near Lircay. The surrounding countryside is littered with many ancient ruins awaiting discovery.

Spectacular trip to Lake Choclococha, a huge inland sea across from where lies the remnants of an ancient village. You will have an opportunity to see many species of bird including Andean geese and hawk eagles as well as some vicuñas that come down to drink by the lakeside.

Long trip back to Lima through some unforgettable, rarely-ventured Peruvian countryside. Transfer to your hotel.

Leisurely day with plenty of opportunity for shopping before your transfer to the airport and your return flight home.