AmaWaterways is taking its approach to immersive travel to a new level with the launch of a new six-day Machu Picchu journey, bringing together one of the world’s most iconic destinations with extraordinary hotels, legendary rail travel, private touring and authentic cultural experiences. The experience will be offered as a post-cruise extension on the Magic of Colombia itinerary, with select 2027 sailings beginning in April. Starting in 2028, it will be available on every post-cruise sailing of the Magic of Colombia itinerary.
After disembarking in Cartagena, Colombia, guests will fly to Lima, Peru, with airfare between destinations included in the land experience. Upon arrival, guests will be accompanied to their hotel before discovering Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital. The journey then continues to Cusco and the Sacred Valley, culminating in a privately guided exploration of Machu Picchu.
“Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic places to visit on earth. It is so exciting to add this highly curated experience to our offerings and reflects how AmaWaterways is evolving its approach to luxury river cruising,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “We have always believed the best and most memorable experiences are those that connect our guests deeply to the places they visit. With our first ever Peruvian journey, we are bringing together exceptional hotels, food and service in an unforgettable location.”
From the Andes to Machu Picchu
The journey combines Peru’s coastal capital with the history and landscapes of the Andes. In Lima, guests can explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Miraflores and Barranco with a local guide before flying to Cusco, where historic architecture, Inca heritage and distinctive Peruvian cuisine set the scene for the days ahead.
At the heart of the experience is a journey to Machu Picchu aboard either the legendary Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, or first-class Inca Rail. Accompanied by a local guide, guests will discover the ancient Inca citadel, set against a dramatic backdrop of surrounding mountains.
Other highlights include the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo, the ancient Maras salt pans, Moray’s distinctive agricultural terraces, Cusco’s historic centre, the former Inca temple of Koricancha and the hilltop fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Along the way, guests can discover Peru through its cuisine, architecture, art and local traditions, with time to take in the Andean landscapes and explore Cusco’s historic streets at their own pace.
“We want to create even more opportunities like this for our guests, with experiences that are extraordinary from beginning to end,” said Powell. “Machu Picchu is an iconic destination, but there is also exciting opportunity in everything around it: the way you arrive, where you stay, what you discover, who you meet and ultimately how the experience makes you feel.”
AmaWaterways’ Managing Director AU/NZ Steve Richards added, “For Australians and New Zealanders, travelling to South America is a big adventure. As the only luxury river cruise line operating in Colombia, we’re already offering something quite unique, and now guests can extend their holiday and experience even more of this incredible part of the world. Combining the colour and culture of Colombia with the wonder of Machu Picchu makes for an extraordinary journey, and one that’s well worth travelling across the world for.”
A New Chapter for Experiential Travel
The Machu Picchu extension reflects AmaWaterways’ continued focus on immersive travel, giving guests new opportunities to explore destinations through curated experiences and a more flexible, semi-guided approach.
Guests can choose between two hotel experiences, each designed to complement the journey through Peru. The Boutique option features stays at The Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center, Tambo del Inka, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, and Palacio del Inka, A Luxury Collection Hotel. The Iconic option features Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel, in Lima and Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel, in Cusco.
Both options combine distinctive accommodations with memorable culinary experiences and opportunities to discover Peru’s history, culture and landscapes.
“Where AmaWaterways is heading is exciting. Our guests are curious travellers who want to get out and experience the world, not just see it from a distance. We’re embracing that spirit of adventure and taking what people love about travelling with AmaWaterways beyond the river. Adding experiences like Machu Picchu is a natural evolution for us, giving guests the opportunity to explore further, immerse themselves in different cultures and be a little more adventurous, while still enjoying the comfort, personal service and attention to detail we’re known for,” said Richards.
