Peru: El Tarico de Los Incas

Explore and enjoy the ancient land of the Incas and its remarkable variety of archaeological wonders and diverse landscapes. Starting on the Peruvian coast we explore Lima, one of the colonial capitals of the Conquistadors, and learn more about the emerging Muslim community. We then take a trip into the Amazon jungle, marvelling at Allah’s creation. Finally, we hike along the last section of the fabled Inca Trail to the world famous 16th century citadel of Machu Picchu, the ancient “Lost City of the Incas”.

Like many ancient kingdoms around the world described in the Qur’an, Latin America experienced various dynasties reaching it zenith under the Incas. The Inca Empire was formed during the reign of Pachacútec Yupanqui, who conquered and united other Amerindian nations in the 15th century. In little more than 50 years, Inca influence was extended from what is now Colombia in the north to present-day Chile in the south, with the bustling city of Cusco as its capital. The united tribes of humble Andean farmers who called themselves the “Children of the Sun” shared knowledge of textiles, irrigation and building techniques to form an advanced and highly structured society until the arrival of the Conquistadors in 1532, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Rediscovered less than a century ago, it is believed by many that Machu Picchu was a royal retreat for Inca nobility in Cusco, a place of spiritual and ceremonial significance, or possibly the administrative centre for a well populated region. It would have been no more than a small town by Inca standards – home to less than 1,000 people at its peak. It is still a mystery as to why the Spanish never found this hidden jewel of the Andes. Some believe that it was abandoned and its memory lost even to the indigenous peoples of the region before the Conquistadors arrived. The entire masterpiece in the mountains was constructed, settled and abandoned in less than 100 years. We may never know why.

Muslims today account for about 0.1% of the population and there is growing awareness of Islam amongst the local population. Our main guides are local Peruvian Muslims with experience of managing tours in this region.

Join us, as we rediscover “El Tarico de Los Incas”.

Tour Package:

All local transport, accommodation, breakfast, guides and entrance fees to sites are included, as well as selected meals. English speaking guides will accompany the group during the trip. The different modes of transport include 3 domestic flights, taxis, mini-vans, river boats, buses and trains. International flights are not covered and would need to be arranged separately. However, we can provide guidance on the most appropriate routes to and from your country of departure.

The exact itinerary is subject to minor modifications depending on the size and composition of the group, as well as local circumstances at the time of the tour. Each day there will be a short briefing, important historical events and landmarks will be highlighted by our guides, while there will be spiritual reminders given from time to time.

Overland journeys may be tiring and sometimes uncomfortable due to changes in altitude, temperature and humidity, therefore a basic level of fitness is required to fully benefit from this trip. Days will begin relatively early at around 8.30 am but exact times will be provided by your guide.

Highlights:

  • Plaza de Armas
  • Central Mosque of Lima
  • Ruins of Huaca Pucllana
  • Amazon Jungle
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas
  • Inca Trail
  • Machu Picchu
  • Ruins of Sacsayhuamán

Main Locations:

  • Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Cusco.

Additional Locations for Extended Tours:

  • Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Arequipa.

Getting There:

Since international flights to and from Peru are not included in the package you are advised to book flights according to the dates advertised. The exact arrival and departure dates, along with preferred flight times will be discussed at the time of booking.

  • Arrival Destination: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
  • Arrival Date: Friday 19 April
  • Arrival Time: Any time before 11:00 (morning)
  • Departure Location: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM])
  • Departure Date 1: Saturday 27 April (9 day tour)
  • Departure Time 1: Any time after 6:00 pm
  • Departure Date 2: Wednesday 1 May (13 day tour)
  • Departure Time 2: Any time after 18:00 (evening)

Accommodation:

Good quality 3 or 4 star hotels in convenient locations will allow you to easily reach the most important attractions. Participants will normally spend 1-2 nights in each city or town. Breakfast is provided.

In the standard package there will be 2 beds in each room (twin rooms) or 1 double bed for couples. There may also be the option of 3 beds (triple room) for larger families subject to availability. Other features include en-suite bathroom with shower and toilet, air conditioning and wi-fi connection (except in the Amazon).

“One of the best tours of my life!” – Nasrin, UK, October 2014

“The itinerary was thorough and gave us a wonderful view of Peru, its main attractions, its communities and local food. The detailed itinerary, and the variety of the places we got to experience. My favourites were Machu Picchu (breathtaking – I couldn’t get enough of it); the Amazon Lodge stay (taking us back to nature); the floating islands at Lake Titicaca (stunning views and interesting communities). If anything we didn’t get enough time in Peru as I could have easily spent more time there. Having someone go with us from Islamic Travels is very helpful and reassuring. I often travel with tour groups like VJV who also send reps from London on the tour so it met the quality I would expect from major tour groups. I would highly recommend this trip to everyone who is interested in travel and exploring the world. Though I have already travelled well across many countries, there is no other place like Peru. Amazing country, made possible to experience through Islamic Travels vision and support. I really enjoyed the Amazon stay because it was different and well organised.” – Alima, UK, October 2014

“I enjoy travelling particularly to places of historical interest and natural beauty. I enjoy studying about ancient civilizations and challenging myself physically and mentally. Therefore, the prospect of visiting the Amazon and Inca sites was very appealing to me. I also like the prospect of an Islamic tour which allows me time to pray and eat halal food so I can enjoy the trip properly in accordance with my faith. Guides were very friendly, informative and safety conscious. Food was usually good. The itinerary was well planned. We were able to cover a lot in a relatively short space of time. The guides were very informative and open to answering questions. Our concerns about the Inca trail, malaria, altitude sickness were dealt with sensitively. The views of Machu Picchu at sunrise were truly breathtaking and well worth the journey. I particularly enjoyed the train ride and the horse riding which were a nice change to the long haul flights.” – Siddiq, UK, October 2014

“This was my first trip outside without my family and one of the best I have been on. Professionally organised from start to finish. Thank you for providing this opportunity. I will definitely recommend it to others.” – Sumaya, South Africa, November 2016

“Jazakallah khairan for organising the trip. It has been an amazing experience, with Machu Picchu, the Amazon and especially meeting the lovely Muslim community in Lima and Cusco, who were very hospitable.” – Shabela, UK, November 2016

“It was probably the best holiday I have ever had – I am hoping to go on one of your other adventures inshaAllah in the not too distant future.” – Madinah, UK, November 2016

“The overall trip was amazing alhamdulillah and well organised and thought out … The staff in the Amazon were particularly courteous, helpful and accommodating.  (Our guide) Giuliana in Lima was also exceptional. I liked that fact that so many places within Peru were incorporated in the tour. I particularly enjoyed canoeing through the Amazon and of course reaching Machu Picchu after climbing the mountain. Also meeting Peruvian Muslims. My only regret is not doing the full tour and seeing Puno, Colca Canyon and Arequipa!” – Sufia, UK, August 2018

“The professional tour guides were very knowledgeable.All of the guides and people we came in contact with were friendly, courteous and helpful.  Every event was on time and I always felt safe.” – Ann, USA,August 2018

Next tour dates

19 April – 1 May 2024

Price from

£1749

Enquire about this tour now