Peru - Uncover the secrets of Southern Peru with Tanit Trails

Hugging the Andes mountains, Southern Peru is home to some of Peru’s most distinctive and mystical landscapes and an extraordinary destination for clients craving authentic experiences and a more off-the-beaten-track trip to Peru. ​Tanit Trails​ is your go-to DMC to guide your curious clients beyond the classic big hitters to uncover adventure, nature and people in hidden places. ​

South Peru is a region where the echoes of ancient civilisations blend seamlessly with the vibrant pulse of modern life - an often other-worldly place that calls for slow, profound exploration.

Coastal deserts turn into a land of imposing snowcapped volcanoes. The incredible Colca Valley with its narrow gorges and a chance to see Condors, intricately terraced agricultural slopes that predate the Incas and the historic, colonial style ‘White City’ - Arequipa. Countless remote traditional villages still practise age-old customs and, of course, the allure of the sapphire expanse of Lake Titicaca. Culinary enthusiasts, history and archaeology buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers - A Southern Peru itinerary will tick all the boxes - all served up with a luxury touch, of course.

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Intrigued? We turned to our friends at the brilliant ​Tanit Trails​ DMC for some itinerary inspiration for those who want to “do” South Peru properly, a travel tapestry woven with iconic landmarks, off-the-beaten-track gems, boutique haciendas and even its own luxury train -​ the Andean Explorer by Belmond.​

They came back with the perfect Peruvian pick and mix for your guests - destinations and experiences that can either be bolted on to a first-time, slow travel exploration that does it all or form the basis for seasoned Peru enthusiasts to dive deeper.

And of course, when it comes to crafting that ideal itinerary, Tanit Trails are on hand to help you tailor an epic expedition that transcends all your guests’ expectations, from luxurious accommodations through to irresistible experiences.

A short introduction to South Peru - Mountains, Lakes, Deserts

Dominated by the mighty Andes, the South of Peru is marked by it’s huge coastal desert, towering peaks, verdant valleys and deep canyons, (famous for it’s Condors) . Think dramatic topography that provides a breathtaking stage for iconic sites such as the Nazca lines (mysterious geoglyphs etched into the arid desert), Lake Titicaca and the Ballestas Islands—an archipelago teeming with marine life., often referred to as the ‘Galapagos of Peru’

​Tanit Trails​ have spent years exploring the region, developing close relationships with local communities to provide positive impact experiences. With a passion for creating unique experiences for your clients, you can expect the South to offer incredible hikes to hidden ancient archaeological sites, kayaking and glamping adventures around Lake Titicaca, meeting locals and reaching hidden villages, unforgettable homestays in incredible properties - all designed to spirit travellers far away from the tourist crowds.

Nazca Lines and the Southern coast

From Lima, en route to the rugged coastline of Paracas, a stop off at one of the first entirely organic olive farms in Peru presents the opportunity for a tasty tasting, followed by a typical - and utterly delicious - local lunch.

Arriving at Paracas in time to see the sunset over the Pacific, a luxurious night at the sumptuous ​Hotel Paracas ​sees guests wake refreshed for a day of marine exploration.

It takes around 3 hours for a private yacht to reach the beautiful Ballestas Islands, otherwise known as Peru’s Galapagos - and believe us, this is time very well spent. This part of the ocean is a natural treasure trove of sea birds and sea lions, where guests might sneak a view of cheeky Humboldt Penguins resting on the edge of their island homes - the luckiest could even get to see the penguins race the boat!

Travellers can also visit the oldest Peruvian Pisco Bodega, discovering the origins and process of this smooth, brandy-like spirit that holds such a special place in the country’s culinary and cultural heritage. A full tasting session and lunch are followed by a riding showcase of the graceful, smooth-gaited Peruvian Paso Horses, whose four-beat, lateral footfall pattern sets the breed apart. Peruvian Paso Horses are often associated with traditional Peruvian culture, and their demonstrations contribute to the preservation and promotion of this unique equestrian heritage.

Close to Paracas, the dramatic scenery of the desert offers spectacular sunset views. Calling to the hearts of those craving a little action, a late afternoon adventure crosses the desert in 4x4 SVUs, each one driven by expert pilots who know these spectacular dunes intimately. The day ends with a deluxe dinner under the stars - the perfect climax to a fabulous day.

Reached via a short flight on a small aircraft, the world-famous Nazca Lines are best viewed from the skies. Accompanied by an expert guide, travellers fly first over valleys where the ancient Paracas and Nazca cultures developed before the incredible Nazca Lines hove into view. The subject of countless theories and hypotheses, guests will uncover more about this almost-unbelievable architectural feat at the planetarium, including how it is thought they relate to the ancients’ studies of astrology.

Arequipa and the Colca Valley

High in the Andes, it’s easy to see why the stunning colonial architecture of Arequipa earned this place the moniker “The White City”. Largely built using volcanic stone, this friendly city is framed by three snow-capped volcanoes - Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu - which provide a dramatic natural backdrop for the ornate churches, charming plazas and iconic Santa Catalina Monastery of this UNESCO-listed historic centre.

Arequipa is also a gateway to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world. With Andean condors soaring overhead on thermal updrafts, Colca is renowned for its vibrant flora and fauna - a truly stunning landscape where terraced fields, traditional villages and pre-Inca agricultural terraces cascade down the steep walls. ​Tanit Trails​ are masters of timing a visit here just right, so your guests have the very best chance to see these birds in flight.

Not forgetting these most friendly and fascinating of communities. For a chance to meet one of the indigenous cultures that call this remote region home, hiking to Yanque village takes guests to a House-Museum that once belonged to the last chief of the Yanque people, where they can hear the tale of these captivating people told by the chief’s own grandson.

For luxury accommodation in Arequipa we love ​Cirqa​, a Relais Chateaux property. You can also stay out in the beautiful scenary ofo Colca at lodges such as the long standing classic ​Colca Lodge​ or the Belmon owned, ​Las Casitas​.

Tanit Trails can escort your guests on a horseback ride to villages like Coporaque village. The owner of the horses and guide is quite a character. He will delight your clients with stories about how he would go for days and days in the mountains with his father to catch wild horses and cattle and how he would ride with his grandfather to the coast to trade them. These were the days when access to the Colca region was much more difficult and complicated than today.

Clearly, this is one of the best places on Earth to hike and mountain bike, with endless trails and lots of opportunities to spot different birds as you travel. One of Tanit Trails’ favourites is a morning trek to Mamacocha Lake that takes an ancient Inca trail past traditional farming terraces that sit on the canyon’s dramatic cliffs. Another favourite hike or bike ride is to a fabulous lookout for a sunset view across the valley. The routes take you up the mountain following narrow "shepherd" paths, past local agriculture and herds of Llamas.

Looking for a luxury feature to weave into your client's Southern Peru itinerary? Take the Belmond Train to Arequipa via Lake Titicaca - a 2 night journey steeped equally in natural beauty and luxury. ONe of the highest train journeys in the world!

The journey can be made in either direction, but ​Tanit Trails​ recommends boarding the famous Belmond Andean Explorer at Cusco, heading towards Lake Titicaca and ending in Arequipa in stunning style. Sumptuously appointed and with fine, seasonal dining, a lounge bar and even a spa on board, this luxury sleeper is a fabulous way to explore the world’s highest rail route, taking in the rugged rural beauty of the mountains with guided stop-offs at the best spots along the way. The highest point of the first day is La Raya pass, where guests can disembark to meet local women and buy their beautiful crafts. Back on board, the train passes through the Puno region with its altiplano views and free-roaming Alpacas, Vicuña and Llamas.

At dawn the following morning, a short walk yields magical sunrise views over Lake Titicaca before heading to the unique Islas Uros, home to a fascinating pre-Incan community who have lived for generations on their man-made islands floating on buoyant reeds. At Taquile Island, a stunning hike ends with a lunch with local people and a chance to soak weary feet in the waters of the Lake before boarding the train for a final night of luxury before the final leg to Arequipa.

Alternatively, for adventurous souls who prefer to skip the crowds, Tanit Trails can organise a private day trip on the lake with kayaking and a chance to explore Titicaca’s more remote spots - ​get in touch​ for more information.

There are many ways to explore Southern Peru, either as an add-on to a visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu or as a second visit to Peru. Whatever your guest's travel goals, ​Tanit Trails​ can bring their unrivalled experience to bear to craft the ideal itinerary, completely personalised to meet the needs of every traveller.

Get in touch today for an introduction to Nicolas Ramirez and his team at ​Tanit Trails ​in Peru.