The Art & Biodiversity of Colombia
A Creative Adventure for Artists, Nature Lovers & Photographers
August 20-29, 2027
Pricing: $6,499 double occupancy
Are you are a person who loves nature, travel, other cultures and cares about the environment? Do you want to connect with nature and learn about ancient cultures? Come with me for a journey of a lifetime to nurture and develop your personal soul in the many faceted country of Peru.
Discover Peru
Get ready to experience where ancient traditions and living arts meet the soul. This journey invites you to slow down, connect deeply, and let the country’s history, culture, and mystery awaken your senses. From the emerald canopy of the Amazon to the timeless stones of Machu Picchu, you’ll find inspiration at every turn—perfect for artists, photographers, and seekers of wonder. Come ready for adventure, reflection, and a true bucket-list experience.
Starting in Lima, the vibrant, historic capital and largest city of Peru awaits you. Lima was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. Wake to your first Peruvian morning with a hearty hotel breakfast and a warm ocean breeze. Meet your guide in the hotel conference room for a lively orientation that blends practical tips with vivid stories of the cultures ahead.
Your adventure begins at the Larco Museum, home to one of the world’s most celebrated collections of pre-Columbian art. Take a guided tour through centuries of history and learn about the intricate gold and silver adornments, ceremonial pottery, and exquisitely detailed textiles from the Inca, Moche, Chimú, Nazca, and other fascinating civilizations.
Savor a lunch of classic Peruvian flavors at a favorite local spot, then head to the ChocoMuseo to trace cacao’s journey from ancient ritual to modern treat. Are you ready for some CHOCOLATE?? Then roll up your sleeves for a hands-on workshop: crack cacao pods, grind the beans, and craft your own silky chocolate to take home.
As evening falls, enjoy a dinner overlooking the glowing Huaca Pucllana ruins, where adobe pyramids light the night—an unforgettable prologue to the Andes and Amazon.
Into the Heart of the Amazon
After breakfast, board a mid-morning flight to Iquitos, the vibrant gateway to the Peruvian rainforest—and the world’s largest city reachable only by air or river. The moment you step off the plane, warm jungle air and the call of distant birds signal that you’ve entered a different world.
From the airport, embark on a 25-mile voyage down the legendary Amazon River. Watch the city fade as dense emerald forest closes in. Pink river dolphins may surface beside the boat, while kingfishers flash electric blue across the current.
Your destination is Ceiba Tops Lodge, a comfortable rainforest retreat where wide verandas open to sweeping river views and the night hums with the sounds of frogs and cicadas. Here, the Amazon’s sights, scents, and rhythms become part of your daily life—a perfect beginning to your jungle immersion.
Encounter with the Yagua
Travel upriver for an enchanting visit with the Yagua, one of the Amazon’s oldest Indigenous communities. Meet elders who share stories of their traditions and how European contact reshaped their way of life.
Browse hand-crafted jewelry and woven goods, then watch a blowgun demonstration, a skill still used for hunting in the rainforest. Feeling adventurous? Step up for a round of target practice and try the blowgun yourself—a rare chance to experience living Amazonian heritage.
Butterflies & Monkey Island
Next stop is the Ahuanari Butterfly Experience. Are you ready to walk through lush gardens alive with color? Learn about Peru’s dazzling butterfly species and the vital role they play in rainforest conservation. Don’t forget to take your camera and maybe a sketchbook if you are inspired to make field notes and quick sketches.
The day isn’t over yet! Continue by boat to La Isla de los Monos—Monkey Island, a celebrated sanctuary and rescue center. Here, dedicated caretakers rehabilitate monkeys injured or rescued from illegal trafficking, releasing those able to survive in the wild. Others live freely on the island, offering visitors a rare, cage-free encounter with playful capuchins, howlers, and more.
Canopy Walkway & Ethnobotanical Garden
Rise early for a boat transfer from Ceiba Tops across the narrow motorcar crossing that links the Amazon and Napo Rivers, continuing by river to ExplorNapo Lodge for breakfast.
Set out on a guided hike to the famed Canopy Walkway, a network of tree-top bridges stretching more than a third of a mile and soaring over 115 feet above the forest floor. No climbing skills are needed—just steady steps and a love of breathtaking views—as you observe wildlife and the layered rainforest canopy from an unforgettable vantage point.
After lunch, visit the “ReNuPeRu” Ethnobotanical Garden, where over 240 medicinal plants are cultivated. A local shaman shares how Amazonian healers use these plants for natural remedies and spiritual well-being.
Return to Ceiba Tops by late afternoon to relax in a hammock or photograph the fading jungle light—perhaps catching a glimpse of the elusive Amazon tapir.
Note: This is a long, humid day with uneven trails and tropical heat; good hydration and sun protection are essential.
Why Join Us
Travel with a Like-Minded Small Group
Share the journey with fellow explorers who value nature, culture, and creativity. Forge friendships as you experience Peru’s extraordinary landscapes and traditions together.
Capture Inspiration Through the Lens
Photography takes center stage—whether you’re a seasoned shooter or simply love snapping vivid memories. From Amazon wildlife to Machu Picchu’s sunrise, every moment is a frame-worthy subject.
Connect with Peru’s Living Heritage
Feel the power of sacred sites and ancient artistry. Guided visits reveal stories of the Inca and earlier civilizations, deepening your understanding of this land’s enduring spirit.
Wildlife & Wonders Up Close
Venture off the beaten path to observe birds, insects, mammals, and rare plants in their natural habitats, guided by experts who help you spot details others might miss.
Bring Home a Well of Inspiration
Return with breathtaking images, rich memories, and a renewed creative spark—fuel for your next project, whether it’s photography, painting, writing, or simply living more artfully.
Venue
During our stay in Peru we will be traveling to 3 very different parts of the country, Lima on the coast, the Amazon and Cusco near Machu Picchu. Lima is where you will fly into and immediately go to the Casa Andina Select Miraflores. This hotel is in the heart of Lima where we will start our adventure. Our next journey takes us the Amazon! Here we will stay at Ceiba Tops in Iquitos. We will embark on a 25-mile journey down the Amazon River to Ceiba Tops, where rooms with air conditioning and private bathrooms provide the comforts of home in the rainforest. The hotel is an ecolodge with a laid back vibe full of surrounding nature. Next a quick hop, skip, and jump via air to Ollantaytambo to the heart of Sacred Valley. After a day trip to Machu Picchu we head by bus to Cusco. Imagine being surrounded by the majestic Peruvian Andes and beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, at Wyndham Costa del Sol, Cusco. I bet you can’t wait to experience this!
Cuisine
Avocados, Limes, Oranges…. OH MY! There is nothing like wiping your mouth and licking your sticky fingers after biting into organic tropical fruits and veggies. Picked fresh daily for you… each area of Peru has many different specialty dishes for your try and delight in! Assorted fishes, meats and vegan meals are prepared daily to keep you full of energy.
Are you Drooling Yet?
Bid farewell to the rainforest and board a morning flight with two short connections that carry you from the Amazon lowlands into the soaring Andes. By afternoon you’ll arrive in the Sacred Valley, where terraced mountains and rushing rivers set a dramatic stage. Visit the Sulca Textiles Museum, home to exquisite fabrics woven with ancestral techniques that span pre-Columbian, Inca, Viceregal, and contemporary traditions. Learn the craft of the backstrap weavers and get a chance to photograph and feed a herd of llamas, alpacas, and vicunas. Later, continue to Ollantaytambo to settle in for the evening amid its cobblestone streets and Incan stone walls.
Welcome to the Sacred Valley
Cradled between snow-capped Andean peaks and the rushing Urubamba River, the Sacred Valley of the Incas is both breathtaking and deeply spiritual. Once the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire, this fertile valley still holds centuries-old terraces, vibrant villages, and a living tapestry of tradition.
Highlights to Anticipate
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Ancient Engineering: Marvel at dramatic stone terraces and Inca irrigation systems that still sustain the land.
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Art & Textiles: Watch master weavers create intricate fabrics using techniques passed down for generations.
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Colorful Markets: Stroll through open-air markets filled with vivid textiles, hand-carved crafts, and fresh produce.
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Mountain Vistas: Capture sweeping views of rugged peaks and emerald fields—perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
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Gateway to Machu Picchu: From here, scenic trains follow the Urubamba River toward the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
The Sacred Valley invites you to slow down, breathe the thin, crisp air, and connect with Peru’s living history—an inspiring blend of culture, nature, and awe that sets the stage for your journey to Machu Picchu.
Journey Through Time: Discover the Ancient Art of Weaving
How would like to step back into history and immerse yourself in the age-old art of weaving, practiced much as it was in 2500 BC. Watch as skilled hands bring vibrant fabrics to life on a traditional backstrap loom, where intricate patterns and radiant colors reveal a world both timeless and enduring. This is more than an art form; it’s a vital craft that sustains communities and preserves cultural heritage. Journey with us to this exclusive studio to witness and support a tradition that thrives through the dedication of artisans. Embrace this rare opportunity to be part of something extraordinary, fostering a legacy that will endure for generations.
Cusco: Layers of History
Step into Cusco’s historic heart, where every street is a lesson in time. Colonial plazas bustle atop massive Inca stonework, and elegant Spanish churches rise from ancient foundations.
Visit Koricancha, once the most important temple of the Inca Empire and dedicated to the sun god Inti. Its precisely cut boulders—still perfectly fitted without mortar—hint at the temple’s former grandeur. After the Spanish conquest, much of the site was destroyed and the Baroque Church of Santo Domingo was built directly on its walls, a striking reminder of the collision of cultures.
Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace—browse lively markets, sample Andean cuisine, or simply wander the narrow cobblestone lanes. As evening falls, gather for an Andean music performance, where traditional instruments and haunting melodies carry the spirit of the mountains.
The Benefits – A Journey to Ignite Your Art and Spirit
Immersive Inspiration: Return home with sketchbooks and memory cards brimming with images of rainforest wildlife, soaring Andean peaks, vibrant markets, and ancient Inca stonework—endless reference material for future pieces.
Fresh Creative Vision: The spiritual energy of the Sacred Valley, the mystery of Machu Picchu, and the primal heartbeat of the Amazon will infuse your art with new color palettes, textures, and storytelling depth.
Cross-Cultural Insights: Firsthand encounters with the Yagua people, Amazonian healers, Peruvian weavers, and Machu Picchu’s living history give you a richer understanding of culture and tradition to weave into your work.
Photographic Mastery: Guided opportunities—from jungle canopy walkways to mist-shrouded ruins—help you hone composition, light, and timing, sending you home with professional-quality photographs to reference or exhibit.
Studio Momentum: You’ll leave with a personalized plan to translate sketches, photographs, and field notes into finished paintings, mixed-media pieces, or new series long after the trip ends.
Renewed Spirit: Ten days of adventure, reflection, and connection—watching dawn over the Amazon, feeling the hush of Machu Picchu at sunset—reignite both your creative drive and your sense of wonder.
Why Join Us—Even If You’re Not an Artist or Photographer
Immersive Culture – Experience the living traditions of Peru, from Amazonian healers and Yagua elders to master Andean weavers.
Natural Wonder – Cruise the Amazon, walk high above the rainforest canopy, and stand amid the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu.
Personal Renewal – Ten days of mindful travel, quiet reflection, and awe-inspiring landscapes that nourish the spirit.
Culinary Delights – Savor world-renowned Peruvian cuisine, from jungle fruits to fresh ceviche and high-Andean specialties.
Expert Guidance – Local naturalists and cultural guides share stories and insights that bring history and ecology to life.
Adventure & Comfort – Explore remote regions by riverboat and train while enjoying well-appointed lodges and seamless logistics.
Whether you paint, take pictures, or simply love meaningful travel, this journey offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences and memories that will stay with you long after you return home.
My Suitcase is Packed! I am Ready to GO!
What’s Included
- 8 days of professionally guided tours
- All Accommodations- Price based on Double Occupancy (Single Supplement available for extra cost)
- All flights within Peru
- 3 delicious meals a day (exception Day 1 – Meals on on your own)
- Entrance fees and ALL activities
- Transportation to and from the airport on July 10 and July 19, 2025 (designated times as per your flights)
- Private air-conditioned vehicle transportation to all destinations
- Full-time Naturalist guide for duration of program.
- Non-alcoholic beverages with meals, bottled water on the bus
- Carbon offset. Together we will help reduce waste for the planet!
- Worry–free Travel – Emergency Assistance 365/24/7
What’s Not Included
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Laundry Services
- Art or Photography Supplies
- Personal Items
- International airfare to and from Lima (Holbrook can assist with your flight arrangements if desired.)
- Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance (Optional Trip cancellation and other insurance is available details through Holbrook.)
* For your comfort and well-being I am partnering with Holbrook Travel. Your registration and payment go through Holbrook Travel.
You may want to fly into Lima a day earlier and leave a day later to acclimate yourself. This will require extra reservations and payment and can be arranged by Holbrook Travel.
Itinerary
Day 1
Casa Adina, Lima Peru
Evening arrival in Peru’s vibrant capital and private transfer to your centrally located hotel. Check in, unwind from your flight, and prepare for the adventure ahead. (Optional extra night available for early arrivals.)
Day 2
Lima: Ancient Treasures & Chocolate (B L D)
Begin with a welcome orientation, then explore the world-renowned Larco Museum, home to priceless pre-Columbian artifacts from the Inca, Moche, Chimú, and Nazca cultures. After a Peruvian lunch, step into the ChocoMuseo for a hands-on bean-to-bar chocolate workshop. End the day with dinner overlooking the illuminated Huaca Pucllana ruins.
Day 3
Gateway to the Amazon (B L D)
Take a mid-morning flight to Iquitos, the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and reachable only by air or river. Cruise 25 miles down the legendary Amazon to Ceiba Tops Lodge, your rainforest base with modern comforts. Enjoy a guided hike through towering primary forest, then a nighttime walk to spot caimans, insects, and the symphony of frogs after dark.
Day 4
Indigenous Culture & Wildlife Encounters (B L D)
Search for pink and gray river dolphins on an early boat ride. Visit the Yagua people to learn about their traditions and watch a blowgun demonstration—try it yourself if you wish. Continue to the Ahuanari Butterfly Experience and then Monkey Island, a rescue sanctuary where rehabilitated monkeys roam cage-free and interact with visitors.
Day 5
Amazon Canopy & Ethnobotany (B L D)
Travel by boat to ExplorNapo Lodge for breakfast, then hike to the spectacular Canopy Walkway—a third of a mile of suspension bridges 115 ft above the forest floor, no climbing skills required. After lunch, meet a local shaman at the ReNuPeRu Ethnobotanical Garden, where over 240 medicinal plants are cultivated and their healing uses explained. Return to Ceiba Tops for a relaxed evening and perhaps a glimpse of the elusive Amazon tapir.
Please note this day is going to be hot and humid with a lot of walking through the canopy walkway.
Day 6
From Jungle to Andes (B L D)
Enjoy a leisurely morning before boating back to Iquitos and flying to Cusco. Drive through dramatic mountain scenery into the Sacred Valley, stopping for dinner en route. The views are spectacular!
Day 7
Textiles & Cusco Charm (B L D)
Visit the Sulca Textiles Museum to see ancient and contemporary weaving techniques that span pre-Columbian to modern times. There will be time to engage and feed the llamas as well as do shopping for fine apparel and tapestries. Later, continue to Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, and settle into your hotel amid cobblestone streets and Inca stone walls.
Day 8
Machu Picchu Magic (B L D)
Today is the day when we board the scenic train along the Urubamba River, where misty peaks frame the journey to Aguas Calientes. A short bus ride climbs to the legendary Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” Explore its masterful stonework, ceremonial plazas, and breathtaking vistas with your guide, pausing for lunch at Sanctuary Lodge before descending by train to Ollantaytambo. This is a day to remember!
Day 9
Historic Cusco & Andean Music (B L D)
Stroll Cusco’s colonial plazas and see how Spanish architecture rises atop Inca foundations. Visit the revered Koricancha Sun Temple and the Baroque Santo Domingo Church, symbols of two worlds intertwined. Enjoy a free afternoon, then gather for an evening performance of traditional Andean music.
Day 10
Farewell to Peru (B L)
Spend a relaxed morning in Cusco before your flight back to Lima. This is an opportunity to do last minute shopping as the city has lots to offer. We will transfer by plane to the Lima airport where there are late-night international departures.
It may be possible to reserve a hotel for an optional extra night in Lima for travelers who prefer a morning or mid-day flight home. Please connect with Holbrook Travel for possible hotel and flight times.
Trip Leaders
Mindy Lighthipe
Award-winning natural science illustrator, educator, and conservationist with over 30 years of travel and teaching experience in Central & South America. Mindy has led art and photography tours in Costa Rica, Peru, The Galapagos Islands and beyond, inspiring travelers to connect deeply with wildlife, culture, and the natural world. Known for her vibrant, scientifically accurate artwork and warm, encouraging style, she blends artistry, ecology, and storytelling to create transformative journeys for artists and non-artists alike.
Eliacin Berivard Palomino Bustamante
With nearly 20 years of professional guiding experience, Eliacin is a Cusco native and certified Official Tour Guide trained at the Instituto Antonio Lorena. Fluent in English and Spanish, he combines deep knowledge of Inca history, Amazon ecology, and Peruvian culture with a warm, engaging style. Eliacin began his career with Inkanatura Travel, rising from Operations Assistant to Chief of Operations before devoting himself full-time to guiding. He has led travelers through the Amazon Rainforest, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu, and regularly updates his skills with specialized courses in flora, fauna, and conservation—including wilderness first aid certification. Passionate about sustainable tourism, Eliacin shares Peru’s natural and cultural heritage while fostering ecological awareness and authentic connections with local communities.
Contact Mindy
Have questions on this amazing journey? Contact Mindy today…