Peru’s Treasures Tour 12 days

After boarding our flight from Lima to Cusco, which typically lasts about 1 hour, we’ll be greeted upon arrival at Cusco airport. Our attentive team will be waiting to transfer you directly to your hotel in Cusco. Upon reaching your accommodation, take some time to acclimate to the high altitude by enjoying a soothing cup of aromatic coca-leaf tea, a traditional remedy in the Andean region.

Following a relaxing break and perhaps a nourishing lunch, we’ll embark on an enriching city tour of Cusco starting at 13:30 PM. Our knowledgeable guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel to commence the tour.

Our exploration of the city will take us to key landmarks such as the revered Temple of the Sun, also known as Koricancha, where we’ll learn about its significance in Inca culture. We’ll then proceed to the Plaza de Armas, the central square surrounded by historic buildings and adorned with beautiful gardens and fountains.

Next, we’ll wander through the bustling streets of Cusco, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the colonial architecture. Our tour will also include a visit to the lively San Pedro Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and sample delicious Peruvian cuisine.

Continuing our journey, we’ll explore two ancient ruins near the city: the impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuaman, renowned for its massive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco, and the intriguing archaeological site of “Kenko”.

After a day filled with exploration and discovery, we’ll conclude our tour at around 18:00 PM and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a relaxing evening and a restful night’s sleep in preparation for the adventures that await in the days ahead.

The tour begins bright and early at 7:30 AM, as your knowledgeable guide will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel in Cusco. From there, we’ll embark on a journey to the sacred valley of the Incas, a scenic drive of approximately 45 minutes in our private car. Along the way, we’ll make strategic stops at various viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of the Sacred Valley and providing insight into Inca history and culture.

Our first destination is the picturesque town of Pisac, renowned for its vibrant traditional craft market. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to browse through a diverse array of handcrafted goods, including textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, all created by skilled local artisans.

Continuing our exploration, we’ll venture to the ruins of Pisac, where we’ll marvel at the impressive agricultural terraces carved into the mountainside and explore the fascinating Inca temples. After soaking in the rich history and natural beauty of Pisac, we’ll proceed to the charming town of Urubamba, approximately an hour’s drive away, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Andean restaurant. Please note that the cost of lunch is not included in the tour, with the restaurant typically offering a buffet option for $20 USD per person.

Following our satisfying meal, we’ll journey alongside the scenic Urubamba River to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we’ll visit the remarkable Inca City, a testament to the architectural prowess of the Incas and the enduring legacy of their civilization. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the intricately constructed buildings and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient site.

As the afternoon draws to a close, we’ll transfer you to the train station, where you’ll board the train departing at 15:37 PM bound for Aguas Calientes. During this two-hour journey, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys, snow-capped mountains, and verdant Inca farming terraces, providing a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural splendor and cultural heritage.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, nestled at an elevation of 2000 meters (6000 feet) above sea level, our attentive staff will be waiting to greet you just outside the train station. They’ll escort you to your hotel, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable and relaxing overnight stay, ready to embark on further adventures in the days ahead.

On this day, we’ll kick off our Machu Picchu adventure bright and early. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we’ll head to the bus station to catch the shuttle to the Citadel of Machu Picchu. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers scenic views along the way.

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, our expert guide will lead a comprehensive 2-hour tour of the ancient citadel, showcasing its most significant landmarks and sharing insights into its fascinating history and cultural significance. You’ll have the opportunity to explore iconic sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows.

Following the guided tour, you’ll have free time to further explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. You can opt to hike to the Puerta de Sol (Sun Gate) or the Inka Bridge, both offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and providing unique vantage points of the citadel. Please note that climbing Huayna Picchu incurs an additional cost of $70 USD per person.

At the designated time, we’ll descend from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll catch the train to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon. From there, a private car will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.

You’ll spend the night in Cusco, reflecting on the awe-inspiring beauty and historical significance of Machu Picchu, ready to continue your Peruvian adventure.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, we’ll pick you up and transfer you to the bus station of the company to embark on an exciting full-day tour that spans approximately nine hours. This tour will take you through the Southern Corridor of the Plateau, offering a glimpse into some of Peru’s most remarkable cultural and historical sites.

Throughout the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to explore four significant landmarks with guided tours. The first stop will be at the temple of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as “The Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” renowned for its stunning colonial artwork and architecture.

Next, we’ll visit the Inca Temple of Raqchi, where you’ll discover the fascinating history and architectural marvels of the Inca civilization. Following the morning excursions, we’ll break for a delightful buffet lunch in Sicuani, providing you with the chance to refuel and recharge for the rest of the journey.

Continuing our tour, we’ll ascend to Raya Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,335 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, offering a glimpse into the majestic beauty of the Andean highlands.

Our final stop will be at the Inca-Aymara Museum of Pukara, where you’ll delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Each tour at these landmarks will last between 20 to 40 minutes, allowing you ample time to ask questions, take photographs, and immerse yourself in the local history and culture.

Upon reaching Puno, our dedicated staff will be waiting to welcome you and escort you to your hotel, where you can unwind and relax after a fulfilling day of exploration.

You’ll spend the night in Puno, reflecting on the wonders you’ve encountered throughout the day and eagerly anticipating the adventures that lie ahead.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, we’ll proceed with your transfer to the Port of Puno, situated on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Here, you’ll embark on a memorable boat journey to explore the fascinating islands of Lake Titicaca.

Our first stop will be the renowned floating islands of Uros, where you’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes immersing yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Uros people. As you explore these man-made islands crafted from totora reeds, you’ll have the opportunity to witness their traditional way of life, marvel at their intricate handicrafts, and gain insights into their customs and beliefs.

Following our visit to the Uros islands, we’ll continue our boat journey to the captivating Island of Taquile. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich ethnic heritage, and archaeological significance, Taquile Island offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life of its inhabitants. You’ll have the chance to explore the island, interact with the locals, and admire its picturesque landscapes.

After our enriching exploration of Taquile Island, we’ll return by boat to the Port of Puno, where our dedicated staff will be waiting to accompany you back to your hotel. Alternatively, if you wish to further explore the charming city of Puno, we can arrange for a drop-off in the heart of the city, allowing you to wander its streets, visit local markets, and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

You’ll spend the night in Puno, reminiscing about the incredible experiences you’ve had exploring the unique islands of Lake Titicaca.

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Puno, we’ll embark on an exciting journey towards Chivay, the gateway to the spectacular Colca Canyon. Our departure from Puno is scheduled for approximately 6:15 a.m., and the scenic drive to Chivay will take approximately 6 hours.

As we make our way towards Chivay, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the stunning Andean landscape, with views of majestic peaks such as Misti, Ampato, and Hualcahualca. Along the way, keep an eye out for native Andean wildlife, including Vicuñas, Llamas, Alpacas, and other fascinating species that inhabit this rugged terrain.

Upon our arrival in Chivay, you’ll have some time to settle into your accommodations and relax after the journey. In the afternoon, we’ll pick you up from your hotel to visit the medicinal hot springs of La Calera. Here, you can soak in the soothing thermal waters, which are renowned for their therapeutic properties and range in temperature from 35 to 38 degrees Celsius. Spend approximately 2 hours relaxing and rejuvenating in the tranquil surroundings before we return to our hotels.

In the evening, around 7:00 p.m., we’ll pick you up once again from your hotel to enjoy a delightful dinner accompanied by a captivating show or welcome party featuring traditional dances of the Colca Valley people. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and folklore of the region as you savor delicious local cuisine and witness colorful performances.

After an enchanting evening celebrating the rich heritage of the Colca Valley, we’ll return to our accommodations in Chivay for a restful night’s sleep, preparing for more adventures in the days to come.

After indulging in a delicious breakfast at our hotel in Chivay, we’ll set out for an unforgettable adventure to the renowned “Cruz del Condor,” a majestic viewpoint where the Colca Canyon begins. Here, we’ll marvel at the awe-inspiring depth of the canyon while also having the chance to witness the majestic Andean condor soaring gracefully in its natural habitat. The breathtaking landscape and the sight of these magnificent birds in flight are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Following our visit to the “Cruz del Condor,” we’ll continue our journey through the picturesque Colca Canyon, passing by charming towns such as Pinchollo, Madrigal, Lari, Maca, Achoma, and Yanque. Along the way, we’ll admire the scenic beauty of the canyon and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Upon our return to Chivay, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before embarking on the scenic drive to Arequipa. As we make our way to Arequipa, we’ll savor the stunning landscapes and vibrant colors of the Peruvian countryside, arriving in Arequipa in the late afternoon.

Our tour concludes at approximately 4:00 p.m. upon our arrival in Arequipa, where we’ll check into our hotel and unwind after a day filled with unforgettable experiences in the Colca Canyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening in Arequipa as you reflect on the natural wonders and cultural treasures you’ve encountered during our journey through this spectacular region of Peru.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast at our hotel, our tour guide will meet us to embark on a fascinating exploration of Arequipa, often referred to as the “White City” due to its stunning white volcanic stone architecture. Our first stop will be the Convent of Santa Catalina, a true gem of Arequipa. This convent, which was once closed off to the public for over 400 years, now opens its doors to reveal a treasure trove of colonial art and history. We’ll marvel at the intricate architecture and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage preserved within its walls.

Next, we’ll visit the Main Square, the vibrant heart of Arequipa, where we’ll admire the impressive colonial buildings and soak in the lively atmosphere. Our journey continues as we explore the cloisters of the Society of Jesus, witnessing the exquisite craftsmanship and artistry of this historic site.

We’ll then venture to the picturesque neighborhoods of Cayma and Yanahuara, where we’ll be treated to magnificent panoramic views of the iconic Misti volcano towering over the city. Our tour will also include a visit to the Founder’s Mansion, a traditional colonial house that offers insight into Arequipa’s colonial past.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to further explore Arequipa at your leisure, allowing you to stroll through its charming streets, visit local markets, or simply relax and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.

As evening falls, we’ll transfer to the bus station to board our overnight bus to Nasca. Our comfortable bus with bed service will provide a restful journey as we travel through the night, arriving in Nasca the following morning.

Upon our arrival in Nazca, our dedicated staff will be waiting for us at the bus terminal to facilitate our transfer to the Nazca airport. Once we arrive at the airport, we’ll embark on an extraordinary adventure—a 45-minute flight over the famous Nazca Lines.

From the vantage point of our aircraft, we’ll soar over these ancient geoglyphs, marveling at the immense figures of animals, plants, and geometric shapes etched into the desert landscape. While the purpose of these enigmatic lines continues to intrigue scholars and researchers, many believe they served as ceremonial sites or astronomical calendars for the ancient Nazca civilization. Some even speculate about extraterrestrial involvement, adding an element of mystery to these fascinating creations.

During our flight, we’ll have the opportunity to observe iconic figures such as the monkey, the spider, the hummingbird, and many more, each intricately designed and spanning vast distances across the desert floor.

After our captivating aerial tour, we’ll board a bus bound for the city of Ica, where we’ll enjoy a comfortable two-hour journey. Upon arrival in Ica, we’ll check into our hotel and unwind after a day filled with exploration and wonder.

Our overnight stay in Ica will provide us with the opportunity to relax and reflect on the remarkable sights we’ve witnessed, preparing us for the adventures that await us in the days ahead.

From 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., after enjoying a delicious breakfast at our hotel, we’ll embark on an exciting adventure to explore the natural wonders of Paracas and Ica.

Our journey begins as we travel to the Port of Paracas, where we’ll commence our tour of the enchanting Ballestas Islands. Along the way, we’ll pass by the iconic “Chandelier,” a massive geoglyph etched into the side of a hill, shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Upon reaching the Ballestas Islands, we’ll spend approximately two hours exploring these pristine isles, marveling at the diverse array of wildlife that call this region home. From playful sea lions and majestic seals to charming penguins and a variety of seabirds, the islands teem with life, offering a captivating glimpse into the wonders of marine biodiversity.

After our memorable island excursion, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch before continuing our journey to the Oasis of Huacachina, located just 5 kilometers from the city center of Ica. Nestled amidst towering sand dunes, this picturesque oasis invites visitors to bask in its tranquil ambiance and take leisurely strolls around its serene lagoon. For the adventurous at heart, the towering dunes surrounding the oasis offer the perfect opportunity to indulge in sandboarding, a thrilling sport that promises adrenaline-pumping excitement and breathtaking views.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll return to our hotel in Ica, where we can unwind and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences, cherishing the memories made amidst the natural wonders of Paracas and Huacachina.

In the morning, we’ll arrange for your pick-up from the hotel and transfer you to the bus terminal, where you’ll board the bus bound for Lima. The journey from Ica to Lima typically takes approximately 3 hours, providing you with a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation to your next destination.

As you embark on this leg of your journey, you can relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way, reflecting on the wonderful experiences you’ve had during your time in Ica. Whether it’s the captivating landscapes of Paracas and Huacachina or the intriguing Nazca Lines, your memories of southern Peru are sure to stay with you long after you depart.

Upon your arrival in Lima, you’ll have the opportunity to explore more of Peru’s vibrant capital city or prepare for your onward travels, taking with you the fond memories and adventures of your journey through this beautiful country.