Sandra Frank
We undertook a nearly three-week individual trip through Peru with Setours and can only say: It was one of the most beautiful trips of our lives.
The planning in advance was excellent and went smoothly via email and phone with the office in Vienna. Special requests, such as the Andean Explorer, the Skylodge, or a cooking class in Arequipa, were also accommodated. The personal recommendations and experiences of the Setours staff were particularly valuable, enriching our trip in many ways.
For example, I had expressed the desire to undertake a llama hike in the Sacred Valley. Setours seamlessly integrated this individual component into our itinerary. In retrospect, it was a wonderful decision: Hiking with the llamas through the impressive Andean landscape, away from the large tourist crowds, was incredibly calming and offered a completely different access to the region. Such personal and authentic experiences made our trip so special.
Despite the many stations, transfers, flights, hotels, train rides, and excursions, each individual component functioned smoothly. We did not have to worry about anything and could simply enjoy the trip. We were particularly impressed by the enormous diversity of Peru. In just under three weeks, we experienced the coast, the desert, the Andes, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu, and even the Amazon. Each region had its own character and highlights.
Two experiences deserve special mention:
The Belmond Andean Explorer was one of the highlights of our entire trip. The combination of spectacular landscapes, excellent service, outstanding cuisine, and the carefully selected excursions makes this train journey truly unique. Yes, it is costly – but also an experience that we will remember for many years to come.
Equally unforgettable was the overnight stay in the Skylodge. Staying overnight in a glass capsule high above the Sacred Valley, experiencing the sunset and sunrise over the Andes, and mastering the access via the Via Ferrata as well as the return by zipline was one of the most extraordinary adventures we have ever experienced.
To be honest: I had great doubts beforehand about whether I would even be able to do it. Fear of heights and the question of whether my fitness would be sufficient occupied my mind for a long time. The joy and a bit of pride were all the greater when I actually reached the top. That is exactly why this experience is now one of my most beautiful travel memories.
The tour guides also played a significant role in making this trip so special. Andre Vega provided us with a perfect introduction to Peru in Lima and Paracas with his dynamic, professional, and friendly manner. In Arequipa, Miguel Torres impressed us with his extensive local knowledge and his warm, familial approach. However, we will particularly remember Yossimar Ugarte in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. With his authentic manner, immense knowledge, passion for Andean culture, and exceptional commitment, he truly brought this region to life for us. You could feel at all times how much he cares for his homeland, and that is what made our days together so special.
A big compliment to the entire team at Setours: All transfers, hotels, flights, train rides, and excursions were perfectly organized, the support was always professional and reliable, and at the same time, the trip never had the character of a standardized tour.
Anyone who wants to experience Peru intensively, comfortably, and yet individually is in the best hands with Setours. An absolute recommendation!
17 June 2026
