Peru Total: 15 days of adventure Lima, Ica, Cusco, Puno, Arequipa
Peru Total: 15 days of adventure Lima, Ica, Cusco, Puno, Arequipa
Overview
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival to Lima / City Tour Lima
Arrival in Lima-Peru, reception at the airport and transfer to the hotel. A las 14:30 horas, we will start our City Tour through Lima, with pickups at hotels from 2:00 p.m. We will enjoy a tour to get to know Lima in its three stages: Ancient, Colonial and Modern Lima. We will start with a panoramic view of the “Pucllana Pyramid”, an ancient ceremonial and archaeological center built in the fourth century AD. and considered the sacred people of the Incas. Then we will go to Historical Center of Lima, where we will observe what was the old square lime. Here, we will appreciate more than fifty colonial monuments and buildings, including Plaza San Martin, Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, Municipal Palace, Archbishop Palace and Cathedral Basilica, among others. We will continue visiting the Central Reserve Bank Museum, where the collection of treasures from Peru is exhibited, which includes objects of ceramics, gold and textiles from various pre-Columbian cultures. We will also explore the San Francisco Monumental Complex, which houses the largest exhibition of colonial religious art in America, highlighting the underground crypts known as “catacombs”. Finally, we will go to the contemporary area of Lima, where we will see the main buildings and residential areas, such as The olive grove of San Isidro, Miraflores, Larcomar and the Parque del Amor. Our tour will conclude around 18:00, and you will spend the night in Lima.
Day 2: Ballestas Islands - Huacachina
At 04:00 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel or agreed place to start our trip to the beautiful Paracas City. We estimate to arrive in Paracas around 8:00 a.m. Once there, we will go to the dock “THE CHACO” To board a skid boat that will take us to the amazing Ballestas Islands. Our first stop on the skid boat will be against the enigmatic Chandelier, a colossal trident-shaped geoglyph with more than 2500 years old. Together we will explore the various theories about its origin, which could be related to ancient pirates or even the creators of the famous Nazca lines. We will continue our journey to reach the Ballestas Islands., three small islands that harbor an impressive maritime and ecological wealth of Peru. Here, we will witness vast colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins and numerous guano birds that fly over the area. Although we will not be able to land on the islands to preserve the ecosystem and not disturb the animals, we will get close enough to observe them in their natural habitat during a tour of approximately one hour around the three islands. Then we will return to the Paracas dock. Then we will continue our journey to ICA, where we will visit a handmade winery that produces the famous Peruvian brandy known as Pisco. In this place, a local guide will take us through the facilities of the winery and will explain the old process of making the pisco and wine. After the tour, our customers will have the opportunity to taste the different varieties of pisco and wine produced by this winery, and, if they wish, buy these products. Then we will go to Oasis of the Huacachina, located just 5 km from the city center. In this beautiful setting, visitors will be able to enjoy the tranquility of the place and explore the surroundings in search of excellent opportunities to take pictures or visit local restaurants (free time). At 4:00 p.m., or at the previously agreed time, the exciting experience in sand buggys will begin through the dunes that surround the Huacachina Lagoon. In addition, the imposing dunes that surround the lagoon offer visitors the opportunity to participate in one of the most fascinating sports in the region, known as sandboarding.
Day 3: Nazca
Day in Nazca: aqueducts, overflight of the lines and Cahuachi At 7:00 a.m., we will head to the Born province, where you will enjoy three exciting activities: TOUR TO THE AQUEDUCTS OF CANTALC (Duration: 2 hours) Just 3 km east of the Nazca city, are the impressive Cantalloc Aqueducts, a marvel of ancient Nazca engineering, built around 500 years after Christ. These underground channels are essential for maintaining a constant water supply in a region where rivers are often dry. The Nazca proved to be master hydraulic engineers, using materials that have endured for over 1500 years. On this tour, you will learn how they controlled the flow of water and how they maintained these canals.
Overflight of the Nazca Lines (Duration: 30 minutes) Then you will experience the thrill of a flying over the famous Nazca lines, an archaeological mystery that has fascinated mankind for centuries. For approximately 30 minutes, you will have the opportunity to admire the enigmatic figures drawn in the Nazca desert. These artistic representations of stylised animals and plants are spread over a vast labyrinth of lines, trapezoids, triangles and spirals that have endured for almost 2000 years. Tour to the Ceremonial Center of Cahuachi Our next stop will be the Cahuachi Ceremonial Center, located 28 km southwest of the city of Nazca. Cahuachi is a set of ceremonial squares, stepped temples and pyramids that served as places of sacrifice and offerings. Archaeologists believe that it was the inhabitants of Cahuachi who created the Nazca lines, since it is close to them. In addition to exploring Cahuachi, you will visit the María Reich Museum and workshops where you can appreciate the local crafts in ceramics, goldsmithing and fabric. After this fascinating day, we will return to the city of Lima. We will spend the night in Lima.
Day 4: Arrival to Cusco / City Tour and surrounding archaeological parks
After your arrival in the historic city of Cusco, you will be welcomed at Velasco Astete International Airport and transferred to your hotel. At 1:00 p.m., we will begin our exciting City Tour.
The experience starts with a visit to the imposing Temple of Qoricancha, a sacred site of great importance during the Inca Empire. We will then board our vehicle and head to some of the region’s most fascinating archaeological centers.
Our first stop will be Sacsayhuamán, famous for its strategic location and its massive, perfectly carved stone walls. From here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Cusco.
Next, we will visit the mystical Temple of Qenqo, where the Incas once carried out religious ceremonies and sacrifices. We will then explore Puka Pukara, the Incas’ military and administrative center.
Finally, we will discover the enigmatic Temple of Tambomachay, renowned for its remarkable water fountains that still flow to this day.
We will return to your hotel around 6:30 p.m., where you will spend the night in Cusco, fully immersed in the city’s historical and cultural richness.
Day 5: Super Sacred Valley (VIP Valley)
Your exciting tour will begin early, at 6:30 a.m. The first stop will be in the picturesque town of Chinchero, where you will have the opportunity to visit its beautiful church and explore the fascinating archaeological park of the area. In addition, you will have the unique experience of visiting a textile production center, where ancestral weaving and wool-dyeing techniques are still practiced. Here, you will be able to appreciate traditional art that has been passed down through generations.
We will then continue to the amazing archaeological site of Moray, famous for its circular terraces. These concentric circles represent a remarkable feat of Inca engineering and have been admired for centuries.
Next, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines, where you will find around 5,000 small pools that are still used today for salt production intended for human consumption. This panoramic view is a testament to the Incas’ ability to make use of natural resources.
After these fascinating visits, we will head to the city of Urubamba, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch.
The next stop will be the charming town of Ollantaytambo, known as the “Living Inca City.” Here, you will visit the archaeological site that houses the impressive Temple of the Sun, a megalithic construction of great significance. You will also explore the Temple of the Ten Niches, the sacred fountains, and the Andean God Tunupa’s face, among other archaeological treasures.
Afterward, we will head to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board a train that will take you to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. The train ride lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will be welcomed by our staff and transferred to your assigned hotel. That same evening, a local tour guide will visit you at the hotel to coordinate the details of the exciting adventure awaiting you the following day.
You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes, preparing for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 6: Machu Picchu
At the previously coordinated time, you will head to the starting point of your Machu Picchu adventure. A picturesque 25-minute bus ride will take you to the entrance of the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Here, you will begin your guided visit, which will last approximately 2 hours. Our experienced guide will accompany you and provide a detailed explanation of all aspects of this World Wonder.
Once you have completed the circuit within the citadel, the guide’s work will conclude. From that moment, you will have the afternoon free to enjoy lunch on your own and further explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.
For your return to Cusco, please be at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure, according to the schedule indicated on your tickets. You will then board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our bus will be waiting to transfer you to the city of Cusco.
Day 7: Humantay Lagoon
Our exciting journey begins at 4:30 a.m. when we pick you up from your hotel and set off along a paved road toward the charming town of Mollepata, where you will enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Once ready, we will continue our trip along a mountain road until we reach the village of Soraypampa. From this point, the hike begins and will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes until reaching the impressive Humantay Lagoon, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level. Here, you will have plenty of time to take in the breathtaking landscape and capture beautiful photographs.
It is important to mention that this tour has a medium level of difficulty and requires a reasonable physical condition.
After enjoying your visit to Humantay Lagoon, we will descend back to Soraypampa, where our vehicle will be waiting to take us to the town of Mollepata, where you will enjoy a comforting lunch.
Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:30 p.m. You will spend the night in Cusco, carrying with you the memories of a day full of natural beauty and adventure.
Day 8: South Valley
At 8:30 a.m., your tour will begin towards the South Valley of Cusco, where two important archaeological complexes are located: Tipón, an unmatched example of Inca hydraulic engineering, and Pikillacta, considered an archaeological site from the pre-Inca era.
You will also visit Andahuaylillas, home to a picturesque church known as the “Sistine Chapel of America.” In addition, you will have the chance to stop at the Huaro Punk Sky Viewpoint, where the impressive Giant Hand sculpture is located.
Along the way, you will pass through the villages of Saylla, Tipón, and Oropesa. Each of these towns is famous for its traditional specialties: Oropesa for its large breads called “chutas,” Tipón for its traditional guinea pig dishes, and Saylla for its delicious pork cracklings.
On the return, you will have free time to enjoy lunch at one of these local spots. You will arrive back in Cusco around 4:00 p.m., where you will spend the night.
Day 9: Mountain of 7 colors Vinicunca
The day will begin early, at 4:30 a.m., when you will be picked up from your hotel. From there, we will start our journey along a paved road toward the town of Cusipata. Then, we will take a carriage road until we reach the town of Paucarpata, where you will enjoy breakfast.
After breakfast, we will continue our trip until we arrive at Qomer Qocha. Here, you will have time to get ready and receive recommendations from our tour guide before starting the hike.
The hike to Vinicunca Mountain (also known as Rainbow Mountain) will take approximately 1 hour on average, with a medium level of difficulty. It is important to be in good physical condition, as the viewpoint of Vinicunca is located at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level.
Once at the mountain, you will have time to take photos and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Afterwards, you will return to Qomer Qocha, where our vehicle will be waiting to take you to a local restaurant for lunch.
After a short rest, we will return to the city of Cusco, where the tour will end around 5:00 p.m. Later, at 9:00 p.m., you will be transferred to the bus terminal to begin your trip to Puno.
Day 10: Puno – Uros Island – Amantani
A few minutes before 7:45 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel in Puno and taken to the main port. There, you will board a boat to begin your journey across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
The first stop will be at one of the Uros Islands, home to a culture with more than 3,000 years of history, whose people build their homes in the middle of the lake using totora, an aquatic plant. You will have the opportunity to learn how they build their houses and discover their unique way of life. Optionally, you can also take a ride on a traditional totora boat.
Afterward, the trip continues to Amantani Island, where some of the local inhabitants will welcome you into their typical family homes. You will share pleasant and unforgettable moments with them, including meals prepared with natural products from the region.
In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to hike to the top of the island, known as “Pachatata”, located at an altitude of 4,130 meters above sea level. From here, you will enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Titicaca and its sunset.
Later, you will return to your assigned accommodation and spend the night on Amantani Island. In the evening, you will attend a traditional Andean music show lasting a couple of hours.
Day 11: Amantani – Taquile – Puno
They will get up early to have breakfast and say goodbye to Amantani. Then, they will embark on a boat to go to the Taquile Island, which in colonial times was used as a prison. In Taquile, they will have the opportunity to interact with the local inhabitants, who will show them their textile crafts and share some of their ancestral customs. They will also be able to explore parts of the island that are not touristy and will visit sites such as temples, tombs and pre-Inca terraces. Afterwards, they will have time to enjoy lunch. Finally, they will return to the port of Puno on a boat, arriving around 5:30 p.m. They will spend the night in Puno. This tour offers a unique experience to explore the culture and natural beauty of Lake Titicaca and its islands, interact with local communities and enjoy breathtaking landscapes.
Day 12: Puno / Colca
This is an exciting itinerary that begins early in the morning in Puno and will take you through a beautiful journey across the Chivay–Caylloma region.
Here is a detailed description of your trip: Between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel in Puno to start your trip to Chivay–Caylloma.
During the journey, you will make several interesting stops. First, you will visit Lagunillas, the natural habitat of Andean flamingos, where you will have the chance to observe these beautiful birds. Then, you will stop at Patahuasi and Pampa Cañahuas, where you may enjoy a coca or muña infusion (at your own expense) in a local restaurant and make use of restroom facilities.
The trip will then continue to Patapampa, the highest point between the two cities, also known as the “Volcano Viewpoint”. From here, you can admire stunning views of volcanoes such as Misti, Ampato, Hualca Hualca, and others. Along the way, you may also spot vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, and other Andean wildlife.
Around 12:30 p.m., you will arrive in Chivay, where you will go to a buffet restaurant to enjoy the day’s lunch (not included in the tour). After lunch, you will be transferred to your hotel in Chivay, where you will have free time to rest and relax.
At the agreed time, you will head to the La Calera hot springs (this activity is optional and may involve an additional cost).
Finally, you will spend the night in Chivay, preparing for more adventures in the coming days.
We hope you have an amazing day exploring this beautiful region of Peru!
If you have any additional questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to ask.
Day 13: Cross of the Condor - Arequipa
Your second day on this exciting adventure will begin very early and will be filled with incredible experiences.
Here is the description of your day: You will depart early towards the “Condor Cross”, located 41 km from Chivay. This is one of the most spectacular spots in the Colca Canyon, known as a prime observation point for condors in flight. You will have the opportunity to witness these majestic birds while enjoying the breathtaking views of the canyon.
After observing the condors, you will return to Chivay, making stops in several picturesque villages along the way. These include Pinchollo, Maca, Achoma, Yanque, as well as the viewpoints of Antahuilque and Choquetico. Each of these places offers its own unique beauty and charm.
Once back in Chivay, you will have time to enjoy lunch and recharge. Then, the journey continues to the city of Arequipa, where you will arrive at approximately 5:00 p.m.
This day will be full of breathtaking landscapes and the unforgettable opportunity to see condors in their natural habitat.
We hope you enjoy this unique experience in the Colca Canyon and have a safe return to Arequipa.
If you have any additional questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to ask.
Enjoy your trip!
Day 14: City Tour Arequipa
Your Day in Arequipa promises to be fascinating and full of exploration.
Here is the description of your tour: At 9:00 a.m., you will begin your journey in the district of Cayma, one of Arequipa’s traditional neighborhoods. You will take a scenic route that offers beautiful views of the city, the terraces, and the Chili River.
In Cayma, you will visit the Main Square and its church, which has a chapel built by Dominican monks in 1544. Today, this chapel is the sanctuary of the Virgin of Candelaria.
Next, you will head to the Anashuayco area, where you will learn about the extraction of the famous volcanic stone “sillar”, used in the construction of Arequipa’s colonial buildings. You will also have the chance to observe the work involved in this craft.
Then, you will visit Yanahuara, where the main square offers a breathtaking view of the city and its volcanoes.
After Yanahuara, you will explore the San Camilo Market, an authentic place to experience the daily life of the city.
Finally, you will arrive at Arequipa’s Main Square, where your guide will share insights into the history of the plaza and the surrounding buildings.
The tour will end either at the entrance of the Santa Catalina Monastery, which you may choose to explore, or back at the Main Square.
This experience will allow you to discover the rich history, culture, and beauty of Arequipa.
If you have any additional questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to ask.
We hope you enjoy your day in Arequipa!
Day 15: Arequipa / Departure
Understood, at the coordinated time, their departure will be transferred to the Arequipa Airport to end their services. If you need any additional assistance or information before your departure, do not hesitate to ask. I hope you had a wonderful trip and have a safe flight home! If in the future you require more help or travel information, do not hesitate to contact. Have a nice day!
Included:
- Transfers Airport – Hotel – Airport (in Lima, Cusco and Arequipa).
- 02 nights of accommodation in Lima.
- 01 night accommodation in Huacachina.
- 04 nights of accommodation in Cusco.
- 01 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- 01 night accommodation on Amantani Island.
- 01 night accommodation in Puno.
- 01 night accommodation in Chivay (Arequipa).
- 02 nights of accommodation in Arequipa.
- 01 Buffet lunch on the Sacred Valley Tour.
- 01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch in the Tour of the Colors Mountain.
- 01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch on the Humantay Lagoon Tour.
- 02 lunches in Puno.
- Tourist transport on the tours.
- Professional tour guide.
- Tourist ticket in Lima.
- BTG (General Tourist Ticket) in Cusco.
- Entrance ticket to Qorikancha.
- Entrance ticket to Machupicchu.
- Aguas Calientes bus ticket – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Voyager or Expedition tourist train ticket (Ollantaytambo route – Machupicchu and vice versa).
- Tax in Paracas (Islas Ballestas).
- Tax in Huacachina.
- Bus ticket (Ica – Lima).
- Air ticket for overflight in Nazca.
- Buggies and sandboarding (ICA).
- Slider ride (Boat in Paracas).
- First aid kit, oxygen balloon in the Tour of the Mountain of Colors and Laguna Humantay (group use).
- Orientation and permanent monitoring of the passenger.
Not included:
- International air tickets.
- Internal air tickets Lima – Cusco / Arequipa – Lima.
- Meals not mentioned.
- Tax at the Nazca Aerodrome (30 soles).
- Entrance to the Parque de la Montaña de Colores (25 soles).
- Entrance to the Humantay lagoon (20 soles).
- Entrance to the salt mines Maras (10 soles).
- Entrance to the church of Andahuaylillas (15 soles).
- Entrance ticket to the Colca Valley (40 soles).
- Entrance to the thermal baths “La Calera” (15 soles).
- consumption or personal expenses of passengers.
Recommendations
- Travel documents and money.
- Suitable clothing and footwear.
- Personal hygiene items and medicines.
- Sun protection and water bottle.
- Camera or phone.
- Plug adapter (if necessary).
- Map, travel guide and book.
- Padlock and resealable bags.
- Umbrella or raincoat (depending on the weather).
- Insect repellent (if necessary).
- Travel insurance and copies of itinerary and important contacts.
