Honeymoon destinations can be tricky little fishes. Do you choose beaches, adventure, culture, or food? Relaxation or ultimate adventure? Luxury or rustic retreats? Well, you know what’s coming next: Peru! With a rich and exciting history to explore, picture-perfect beaches, mountains begging to be trekked, and a vibrant and delicious cuisine, it’s got something to satisfy everyone. Keep reading for some of our favourite honeymoon trips and (of course) the most romantic places to stay across the country in our ultimate Peru honeymoon guide.
Peru from top to tail
If you’d like to sample a little of everything, look no further: on our 18-night Ultimate Peru adventure, you don’t have to choose. You’ll begin in lively Lima, the perfect spot to shake off the jet lag and discover the local food scene, before heading down to the coastal town of Paracas for some R&R. Then, take to they sky and view the mystical Nazca Lines from the air before soaking up the culture of the Spanish-styled city of Arequipa – with its restaurants and beautiful architecture, this really is a place for romantics. Next up is Lake Titicaca, where kayaking and exploring the floating islands are the name of the game. Locals have lived here for millennia and a glimpse into their ancient lifestyle is fascinating. Afterwards, there’s more culture and history to discover in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, undoubtedly some of Peru’s highlights, before making your way through the Amazon, a place most can only dream of. Phew!
Top spots to stay
If romance is the order of the day, then you might enjoy these charming spots. In Lima, it’s got to be Hotel B with its laid-back, artistic nod to luxury and in Paracas, Hotel Paracas will woo you with its pools, restaurants, and private beach. In Arequipa, make your way to CIRQA, then delight in the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs after a day trekking the nearby canyon – a soak in one of the pools is imperative. At Lake Titicaca, Titilaka Hotel screams romantic getaway with its waterside setting and breathtaking views and if you’re looking to really up the honeymoon ante, Cusco’s regal Palacio Nazarenas will do the job nicely. In the Sacred Valley, El Albergue Ollantaytambo is charm personified, and in Machu Picchu, stop overnight at somewhere like Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel which will have you almost on the doorstep of this famous sight. Jungle lodges are where it’s at in the Amazon and we think you might just fall in love with Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion and its uber-chic rainforest decor.
Discover Peru’s Incan past
For many Machu Picchu is the highlight of a visit to Peru, but there’s a wealth of incredible history to explore around the country too. On this trip, you’ll begin with one night in the flamboyant city of Lima before starting your adventure into the past in the aptly-named Sacred Valley. Set in the Andean Highlands, the area is packed to the brim with Incan ruins, lush farmlands, centuries-old Spanish towns and incredible topography. Then, it’s time to don your hiking boots and head for the hills as you take on The Inca Trail or Qhapaq Ñan. This iconic three-day journey will lead you on the path of the Incas, finally culminating at the world-wonder, Machu Picchu. Taking the path that the ancients would have used will give you immense respect for the feat of engineering that led to this ancient mountainside citadel. Finally, spend a few nights in the high-altitude town of Cusco, perusing local markets for trinkets to take home, eating in some of the country’s best restaurants, and soaking up the energy of this Incan city.
Top spots to stay
Lima has a plethora of chic city spots to rest your head but if you want to recover from your flight in style, try Miraflores Park. Set in one of Lima’s most lusted-after postcodes and with top-notch dining and a spa, it’s an excellent first stop. In the Sacred Valley, we love the colourful escape of Sol y Luna, with its luscious setting and more than comfortable casitas. On the Inca Trail, you’ll be braving the elements as you camp out in the same spots that the ancient civilisations would have rested their heads, but there’s always the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo for somewhere to rest weary legs at the end. Round your trip off in Cusco’s ever-charming Inkaterra La Casona, not only an elegant stay but also a mere stone’s throw away from the famous Plaza de Armas.
Explore the Peruvian Andes
This Peruvian adventure takes in all of the country’s must-visit destinations – and does it all in 12 days! Like most trips, this one begins in the buzzy capital of Lima, where you’ll acclimatise to life in Peru in the vibrant markets and dining at some of the country’s finest restaurants. Once you’ve explored the city sights, head to the Sacred Valley for wanderings through Spanish towns and the chance to learn more about the ancient Incan civilization that made the area their home. Next, it’s time head to Machu Picchu. This ancient mountainside citadel has captivated visitors since it was discovered and it’s no less incredible to the modern eye than it was back then – prepare to be amazed. You’ll then have three days to explore one of our favourite destinations, picturesque Cusco. With its cobblestone streets, tiled roofs and perfect pisco sours, it’s hard not to fall in love with the city. Finally, you’ll make your way across to Lake Titicaca. This enormous body of water, with its collection of floating islands and rich history, will live up to every expectation you might have, and is the perfect place to wrap up your honeymoon.
Top spots to stay
Recuperate from your long-haul flight at the boutique Villa Barranco in Lima. Think four poster beds, enormous bathtubs and a peaceful garden to relax in. In the Sacred Valley, we love Explora Valle Sagrado for its plethora of adventurous activities and the outstanding knowledge of the local guides is next level. At Machu Picchu, you’ll be caught up in the history and culture surrounding you, but if you’re looking for somewhere cosy to return to at the end of the day, try El Mapi. In Cusco, El Mercado is the epitome of a stylish city stay, and when it comes to Lake Titicaca, nothing beats the Titilaka Hotel. An oasis of relaxation on the famous shores, honeymooners just wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!
