National Program: Lima, Ica, Nazca, Cusco and Puno 12D/11N
National Program: Lima, Ica, Nazca, Cusco and Puno 12D/11N
Overview
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival to Lima / City Tour Lima
Arrival in Lima and City Tour
Upon arrival at Lima Airport, you will be received and transferred to your hotel.
This program begins at 2:30 p.m., with hotel pickups starting from 2:00 p.m.. We will enjoy a tour to explore Lima through its three stages: Ancient, Colonial, and Modern Lima.
The tour starts with a panoramic view of the “Pucllana Pyramid”, an ancient ceremonial and archaeological center built in the 4th century AD and considered a sacred site by the Incas.
Next, we will visit the Historic Center of Lima, where you will admire what was once the old city square. Here, you will see more than fifty colonial monuments and buildings, including the Paseo de la República, Plaza San Martín, Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, Municipal Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral Basilica, among others.
We will then continue to the Central Reserve Bank Museum, where you can admire Peru’s treasures, including ceramics, gold, and textiles from various pre-Columbian cultures.
Next, we will explore the San Francisco Monumental Complex, home to the largest exhibition of colonial religious art in the Americas, featuring its famous underground catacombs.
Finally, we will visit the contemporary area of Lima, where you can admire the main buildings and residential districts, including San Isidro, Miraflores, Larcomar, and Parque del Amor.
The tour concludes around 6:00 p.m., and you will spend the night in Lima.
Day 2: Ballestas Islands - Huacachina
At 4:00 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel or agreed meeting point to begin the journey to the beautiful Paracas City. We expect to arrive in Paracas around 8:00 a.m.
Upon arrival, we will head to Dock “El Chaco” to board a skid boat for an unforgettable visit to the Ballestas Islands. Our first stop on the boat will be in front of the enigmatic Chandelier Geoglyph, a colossal trident-shaped figure over 2,500 years old. During this stop, we will discuss the various theories about its origin, including connections to ancient pirates or the creators of the famous Nazca Lines.
Next, we will continue our journey to the Ballestas Islands, three small islands that harbor incredible marine and ecological wealth. Here, you will see large colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and numerous guano birds flying above. Although we cannot disembark on the islands to protect the ecosystem, we will get close enough to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat during a roughly one-hour tour around the islands.
Afterward, we will return to the Paracas dock and continue to Ica, where we will visit a handmade winery that produces the famous Peruvian brandy, Pisco. A local guide will take us through the winery and explain the traditional process of making pisco and wine. After the tour, you will have the chance to taste different varieties of pisco and wine and, if desired, purchase some to take home.
Next, we will visit the Oasis of Huacachina, located just 5 km from the city center. Here, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the oasis, take photographs, or explore local restaurants during free time.
At 4:00 p.m. (or at the previously agreed time), the exciting adventure begins with a sand buggy ride across the impressive dunes surrounding the Huacachina Lagoon. Guests will also have the opportunity to try sandboarding, sliding down the desert dunes on a board—a thrilling local sport.
Finally, we will spend the night in Huacachina, ending a full day of adventure, wildlife, and stunning desert landscapes.
Day 3: Nazca
Nazca Day Tour: Cantalloc Aqueducts, Nazca Lines Overflight & Cahuachi
At 7:00 a.m., we will depart towards the Nazca province, where you will enjoy three exciting activities.
1. Tour of the Cantalloc Aqueducts (Duration: 2 hours)
Just 3 km east of Nazca city, you will visit the impressive Cantalloc Aqueducts, an engineering marvel built by the ancient Nazca around 500 AD. These underground channels were essential for maintaining a constant water supply in a region where rivers often run dry. The Nazca were master hydraulic engineers, using materials that have endured for over 1,500 years. During this tour, you will learn how they controlled the water flow and maintained these remarkable channels.
2. Overflight of the Nazca Lines (Duration: 30 minutes)
Next, experience the thrill of flying over the famous Nazca Lines, an archaeological mystery that has fascinated humanity for centuries. For approximately 30 minutes, you will admire the enigmatic figures etched into the Nazca desert, including stylized animals and plants, alongside vast networks of lines, trapezoids, triangles, and spirals that have lasted for nearly 2,000 years.
3. Tour of the Cahuachi Ceremonial Center
Our next stop is the Cahuachi Ceremonial Center, located 28 km southwest of Nazca. Cahuachi consists of ceremonial squares, stepped temples, and pyramids that served as places of sacrifice and offerings. Archaeologists believe that the inhabitants of Cahuachi may have been the creators of the Nazca Lines, as the site is nearby. In addition, you will visit the María Reich Museum and workshops, where you can appreciate local craftsmanship in ceramics, goldsmithing, and textiles.
After this fascinating day, we will return to Lima, where you will spend the night.
Day 4: Arrival to Cusco / City Tour and surrounding archaeological parks
Arrival in Cusco and City Tour
Upon arrival in the historic city of Cusco, you will be received at Velasco Astete International Airport and transferred to your hotel.
At 1:00 p.m., our exciting City Tour will begin. The experience starts with a visit to the imposing Qoricancha Temple, a sacred site of great importance during the Inca era.
Next, we will board our vehicle to explore the fascinating archaeological centers around Cusco:
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Sacsayhuamán: Famous for its strategic location and massive polished stone structures. From here, you will enjoy an impressive panoramic view of Cusco.
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Qenqo Temple: A mystical site where the Incas performed religious ceremonies and sacrifices in the past.
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Puka Pukara: The Incas’ former military and administrative center.
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Tambomachay Temple: Known for its remarkable water fountains, which still flow to this day.
The tour concludes with a transfer back to your hotel around 6:30 p.m., where you will spend the night immersed in the historical and cultural richness of this fascinating city.
Day 5: Super Sacred Valley (VIP Valley)
Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes Tour
Your exciting day begins early at 6:30 a.m.
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Chinchero: Your first stop is this picturesque town, where you will visit its beautiful church and explore the nearby archaeological park. You will also have the unique opportunity to enter a textile production center, where ancestral weaving and wool dyeing techniques are still practiced, allowing you to appreciate traditional art passed down through generations.
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Moray Archaeological Park: Next, we head to this fascinating site, famous for its circular terraces. These concentric circles are a marvel of Inca engineering and have been admired for centuries.
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Maras Salt Mines: We continue to the Maras salt ponds, where approximately 5,000 small pools are still exploited for salt production. This panoramic view highlights the Incas’ ingenuity in utilizing natural resources.
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Urubamba: Here, you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch.
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Ollantaytambo: Known as the “living Inca city,” this charming town houses the archaeological park with the Temple of the Sun, an impressive megalithic structure. You can also explore the Temple of the Ten Niches, sacred springs, and the face of the Andean god Tunupa, among other archaeological treasures.
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Train to Aguas Calientes: We will then head to the Ollantaytambo train station for a scenic 1½-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, our staff will take you to your hotel. That evening, a local tour guide will visit to coordinate the details of the next day’s Machu Picchu adventure.
You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes, preparing for your visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 6: Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Adventure
At the previously coordinated time, you will head to the starting point of your adventure at Machu Picchu. A picturesque 25-minute bus ride will take you to the entrance of the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
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Guided Tour: Your visit will last approximately 2 hours, accompanied by an experienced guide who will provide detailed explanations about the history, architecture, and significance of this world wonder.
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Free Time: After completing the guided circuit, you will have the afternoon free to enjoy lunch on your own and explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.
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Return to Cusco: To return, you must arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes in advance, according to your ticket schedule. You will then board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our bus will pick you up and take you back to Cusco.
You will spend the night in Cusco, carrying unforgettable memories of your visit to Machu Picchu, one of the most impressive wonders of the world.
Day 7: Humantay Lagoon
Humantay Lagoon Adventure
Our exciting day begins at 4:30 a.m. when we will pick you up from your hotel and start our journey along a paved road to the charming town of Mollepata, where you will enjoy a delicious breakfast.
After breakfast, we will continue along a mountain road until we reach the village of Soraypampa, where the hike begins. The walk lasts approximately 1.5 hours and leads to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, located at 4,200 meters above sea level. Here, you will have time to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and capture memorable photographs.
Important: This tour is of medium difficulty and requires a reasonable level of physical fitness.
After enjoying the lagoon, we will descend back to Soraypampa, where you will board our vehicle to return to Mollepata for a hearty lunch.
Finally, we will continue our journey back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival around 5:30 p.m. You will spend the night in Cusco, carrying with you the memories of a day filled with natural beauty and adventure.
Day 8: South Valley
South Valley of Cusco Tour
The tour begins at 8:30 a.m., heading to the South Valley of Cusco, where two important archaeological sites await: Tipón, an extraordinary example of Inca hydraulic engineering, and Pikillacta, a prominent pre-Inca archaeological complex.
Next, you will visit Andahuaylillas, home to the picturesque church known as “The Sistine Chapel of America”. You will also stop at the Huaro Punku Viewpoint, where the impressive Giant Hand sculpture is located.
During the journey, you will pass through the charming villages of Saylla, Tipón, and Oropesa. Oropesa is famous for its large breads called “chutas”, Tipón for its traditional guinea pig dishes, and Saylla for its delicious pork cracklings.
At lunchtime, you will have enough time to enjoy a meal in one of these towns. The tour concludes with a return to Cusco around 4:00 p.m., where you will spend the night.
Day 9: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) Tour
Your exciting day begins early at 4:30 a.m., when we will pick you up from your hotel. From there, we will travel along a paved road to the town of Cusipata. We will then continue along a carriage path until we reach Paucarpata, where you will enjoy a delicious breakfast.
After breakfast, the journey continues until we reach Qomer Qocha, where you will receive guidance and recommendations from our tour guide before beginning the hike.
The hike to Vinicunca Mountain lasts approximately 1 hour and has a medium level of difficulty, so a good physical condition is recommended. The mountain summit reaches an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level. Once at the top, you will have time to take photos and admire the breathtaking scenery.
Afterwards, we will return to Qomer Qocha and board our vehicle to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Following a short break, we will return to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 p.m.
Later, at 9:00 p.m., you will be transferred to the bus terminal to begin your overnight trip to Puno.
Day 10: Titicaca Lake
Lake Titicaca Tour – Uros & Amantani Islands
Shortly before 7:45 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel in Puno and transferred to the main port. From there, you will embark on a boat to begin your navigation of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Your first stop will be at one of the Uros Islands, home to a culture with over 3,000 years of history. The Uros people build their homes on floating islands using totora, a native aquatic plant. Here, you will learn about their traditional way of life and how they construct their homes. You will also have the optional experience of sailing in a traditional totora boat.
Next, the journey continues to Amantani Island, where local families will welcome you into their homes. You will share memorable moments with them and enjoy meals prepared with natural products from the region.
In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to hike to the top of the island, Pachatata, located at an altitude of 4,130 meters above sea level. From this viewpoint, enjoy a spectacular panorama of Lake Titicaca and its sunset.
Afterward, you will return to your assigned accommodation on the island. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Andean music show for a couple of hours before spending the night in Amantani.
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 / Departure
On the last day of your trip, you will be provided with a transfer from your place of accommodation in Puno until the Inca Manco Capac International Airport in the city of Julia. This transfer will allow them to reach the airport in time to board their flight back to their place of origin, thus marking the end of their tourist services. I hope you have enjoyed your trip through the Lake Titicaca region and have had a memorable experience. If you have any other questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to ask. Good return trip!
Included:
- Transfers Airport – Hotel – Airport (in Lima, Cusco and Puno)
- 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 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 tickets (Ica – Lima).
- Bus Ticket Cusco – Puno.
- 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 / Juliaca – 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).
- 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.
