Trekking to Machu Picchu in Peru is featured on many people's ultimate travel bucket list, and for good reason. The mist-shrouded Incan citadel feels like a world of its own, far from any modern-day civilisations or distractions. First discovered by the outside world in only 1911, the lost city dates back to the 1400s and, despite its vast size, was only actually inhabited by the Incans for around 100 years.
Stay amongst the Andes and the Amazon with our
luxury Machu Picchu holidays and enjoy this spectacular part of the world. Accommodation so close to this wonderful attraction means you can be among the first visitors of the day and see the citadel at its quietest and also enjoy the sunrise over the Andes as you do, one of the most beautiful sights on Earth.
One option is
Sanctuary Lodge,
the only hotel located adjacent to Machu Picchu, putting you only a short walk or bus journey away from the site. Whilst not exploring the citadel, Sanctuary Lodge enjoys stunning views over the cloud-capped mountains which can be enjoyed from your terrace. If you're looking for a unique wedding location, you can even tie the knot here - talk about spectacular!
Alternatively,
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
is perfect for nature lovers. Situated in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, the hotel is located within its own, private twelve acres, perfect for those who want to discover the local wildlife. The hotel features 83 whitewashed casitas, a gorgeous spa and a glass-walled restaurant with a view over the Vilcanota River. Oh, and it's only a short bus ride away from Machu Picchu!
The Rose Red City of Petra in Jordan is somewhere that's just as familiar to cinema lovers as it is to travellers due to its starring role in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Carved into a stone cliff face, here you can find fantastical tombs, theatres, temples, monasteries and the star of the show, Al-Khazneh, 'The Treasury'.
Thought to date back to as early as 5th century BC, Petra is an archaeological marvel due to how well preserved the city is. Described by UNESCO as "one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage", Petra is somewhere to unearth as you can only access it by hiking the Siq gorge.
On our Desert Empires: Jordan and Saudi Arabia Escorted Itinerary, you can enjoy the rich history and archaeological sites across both countries whilst you're accompanied by expert archaeologist Dr Iain Shearer Fras. Explore Amman, desert castles, the walled-city of Um ar-Rasas, the Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba, Ancient Midian, volcanoes, and much more.
The Taj Mahal in
India is, without a doubt, the world's biggest declaration of love. This iconic monument has become synonymous with the country, but did you know it was originally built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, after her passing?
The ivory-white marble architecture is utterly resplendent and exudes beauty. Many people can picture the exterior of the building; however, the inside is potentially even more breathtaking, with intricate tiling, inscriptions on the walls in Persian and carved, marble flowers.
For the ultimate, unforgettable experience,
The Oberoi Amarvilas offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Built in the style of the surrounding Moorish and Mughal architecture, this luxury hotel gives you an unparalleled and uninterrupted view of the Taj Mahal. From your room, you'll be able to watch as the sun rises behind the Taj Mahal which sits only six hundred metres away. If that isn't enough, the hotel has its own spa, lush gardens, stunning pool and butler service for the royal touch.
The Great Wall of China is certainly the biggest monument on this list, standing at over 13,000 miles in length and famously visible from space. If you've always wanted to visit, one of the best bases for seeing the wall is in
Beijing, the capital city of China. Staying in the city allows you to learn more about Chinese culture and really get under the skin of this unique and exciting location.
For something really unique that allows you to unlock more of China's great history,
China's Imperial Treasures and Natural Wonders Escorted Itinerary is unbeatable. Traverse a quiet section of the Great Wall in Jinshanling, go behind the scenes in Xi'an's Institute of Archaeology (home to the terracotta army), see pandas in Dujiangyan, learn tai chi atop the Yangtze River and more. In partnership with National Geographic Expeditions, you'll be accompanied by an expert guide the whole way and, on your travels, meet conservationists and archaeologists who can help you learn all there is to know about the history and natural landscape of China.
Standing proud on top of Corcovado Mountain overlooking energetic Rio De Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is another attraction you can see in style. The most modern wonder on the list, being completed in 1931, what Christ the Redeemer might lack in history it makes up for as a cultural icon. Not only is it a symbol of Christianity, but it's a cultural icon for Brazil and Rio and one of the first things that come to mind when people think of the destination.
Thanks to its proximity to the city, you can enjoy a
luxury holiday in Rio De Janeiro
and hike Corcovado Mountain to share the Redeemer's point of view during your trip. Wake up overlooking Copacabana Beach in the
Copacabana Palace. First opened in the 1920s, it's kept its charm to this day and is known for its black-tie Carnival parties. A testament to its glitz and glamour is its list of past guests, which includes no other than Marilyn Monroe herself!
If something a bit more chic is your speed, then
Hotel Fasano Rio De Janeiro is the place for you. Offering everything you want from a Brazilian hotel, enjoy the trendiest pool in Rio on its rooftop, access to Ipanema beach and a gourmet restaurant inspired by punk-era London - something you don't see every day in South America!
Once a battleground where gladiators came to fight in front of emperors, the Colosseum is past its violent days and is now one of the world's most iconic buildings, with its towering arches and crumbling exterior. Situated in the heart of Rome, a city where modern-day and ancient history live side-by-side in harmony, the Colosseum doesn't require a hike to reach or travelling to far out places, it's easy to see and experience for all travellers which is one reason why it's so popular an attraction.
Although, a
luxury holiday in Rome
has a lot more than the Colosseum on offer. A foodie's haven, enjoy the freshest of Italian cuisine whilst in the city in everything from pizzerias that will sell you a pie by the slice to Michelin-starred restaurants that are world-renowned. There is also an amazing number of historic sites on offer, really, the Colosseum doesn't even give you the tip of the iceberg as there are also locations like the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, St. Peter's Basilica, the Forum and much more.
Being able to enjoy the Wonders of the World allows you to fully unwind whilst taking in some of the world's most culturally and historically significant sites. And, whether you want to enjoy
a luxury Greece holiday to take in the Acropolis or go to
Cambodia to walk through Angkor Watt, we can help make your experience come to life, simply contact our travel experts and we'll craft your dream trip.