About this journey
Discover the Wonders of Peru, a captivating destination where ancient civilizations, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant traditions come together. From the legendary ruins of the Inca Empire to dramatic mountains, mysterious archaeological sites and colourful cities, Peru offers an unforgettable journey through history and nature. Begin your adventure in Lima, Peru’s lively capital, known for its historic architecture, coastal views and world-renowned cuisine. Travel to the Andes and experience the timeless beauty of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, before continuing to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological wonders. Explore the spectacular Sacred Valley, discover ancient Inca sites and experience the traditions of local communities. Venture further to see the breathtaking Lake Titicaca, the majestic Andes and the fascinating Nazca Lines, offering a deeper glimpse into Peru’s extraordinary past. Peru is also a paradise for food lovers and culture enthusiasts. Taste authentic Peruvian cuisine, explore colourful markets and experience the country’s diverse traditions, music and celebrations.
Tour highlights
Itinerary
Welcome to Lima! Upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, you will be privately transferred with a representative to the hotel. Overnight in Lima.
Begin the journey departing from Lima early in the morning, heading south. Stop at Mirasur restaurant on the way, with the option to enjoy breakfast (not included). Continue the trip to the historic Hacienda San José in Chincha, a place filled with history and tradition. Explore the secret slave tunnels, an astonishing underground labyrinth built in the 17th century to conceal the trafficking of enslaved Africans and evade taxes. These tunnels connected several haciendas with the port, extending for more than 17 km. After this unique experience, continue the journey to the Paracas bus station, and then transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Paracas.
After breakfast, head to the El Chaco pier to embark on a one-and-a-half-hour boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. Discover impressive geological formations, rich wildlife, and vestiges of pre-Inca cultures. Encounter a wide variety of species, including blue-footed boobies, pelicans, sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and other fascinating animals. During the ride, observe a mysterious geoglyph etched in the desert sand, known as the Candelabra. After the tour, continue to the city of Nazca. Transfer to the Paracas bus station to take the bus to Nazca, a journey of approximately four hours. Upon arrival at the Nazca bus station, transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Nazca. (B)
After breakfast, today, you will be picked up in the morning to fly over the Nazca Lines from the local aerodrome. From the air, you will observe giant figures such as a monkey, a spider, and a condor while trying to decipher their mysterious patterns. This enigmatic flight lasts for 30 minutes. Afterward, you will have free time in the city. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the bus station to take the bus from Nazca to Arequipa, for approximately ten hours. Upon arrival at the Arequipa bus station, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Arepuipa. (B)
After breakfast, you will picked up from the airport hotel and take you to Carmen Alto viewpoint, where you can admire the Chili River and the Misti and Chanchani volcanoes. Next, you will visit Yanahuara's viewpoint to appreciate the urban contrast and see constructions of white volcanic stone known as sillar. Afterward, the tour will continue at Plaza de Armas, a quintessential urban meeting space. Finally, you will explore the Convent of Santa Catalina, featuring plazas, cloisters, and streets. Overnight in Arequipa. (B)
After breakfast, head towards your tour starting with exploring the Colca Valley, passing through the district of Yura. Then, cross the Pampas Cañahuas Reserve, home to an extensive population of vicuñas, one of Peru's four native Andean camelids. Next, travel through the Pampas de Viscachani and Toccra, skirting the crater of the Chucura volcano until reaching the Andes viewpoint at Patapampa. Finally, you will arrive in the town of Chivay around noon for lunch, followed by a transfer to the hotel in the Colca Valley to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Colca. (B, L)
After breakfast, Early in the morning, depending on your hotel’s location, the driver picks you up to start the journey. Make a brief stop at the main square of Yanque before heading to the Condor’s Cross, the best viewpoint to admire the vastness of the Colca Canyon and observe the majestic flight of the Andean condor. On the way back, visit several lookouts before arriving at the town of Maca. Then, enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Chivay. After lunch, depart for Puno, a journey of approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. Along the way, stop at Patahuasi, where services are available, and at the Lagunillas viewpoint, where you can observe migratory birds such as flamingos. Finally, arrive in Puno and get transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Puno. (B, L)
Today after breakfast, explore the high-altitude city of Puno lies Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake. Here, the Uros people constitute an ancestral society inhabiting artificial islands constructed on bases woven from totora reeds, which grow in the lake itself. The tour begins with a transfer to the port of Puno, where a boat awaits to take you to the beautiful Uros Islands. After a magical one-and-a-half-hour excursion, you will continue to the island of Taquile, renowned for its ancestral culture and traditional way of life. Here, there will be an informational session about the island, followed by a delightful lunch. Finally, you will return to the city of Puno. Overnight in Puno. (B, L)
After breakfast, get ready for a journey to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. Discover a route that winds through stunning Andean landscapes, featuring villages and native wildlife. Stop at the Pucara Museum, declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation. Pause at La Raya, the highest point on the route at 4,313 meters above sea level, and enjoy a delightful lunch. Visit the town of Raqchi, famous for its Temple of Wiracocha. Explore the charming town of Andahuaylillas, renowned for its church, known as the Sistine Chapel of America due to its impressive artworks. Finally, arrive at your hotel in Cusco and receive assistance during your check-in. Overnight in Cusco. (B, L)
Today after breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of the charming and magical city of Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire. Start visiting the Santo Domingo Convent in the Coricancha temple. Then, visit the main temple of the city of Cusco, known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption. Later, tour the Cusco hills of the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, visit the Qenqo archaeological complex, and walk through the Puca Pucara military architectural complex and the ruins of Tambomachay, also known as the Inca spa. Finally, return to the selected hotel. This tour is shared with other passengers. Overnight in Cusco. (B)
After breakfast, Start your tour today by heading to the picturesque village of Chinchero. You will begin by exploring the impressive agricultural terraces and the 17th-century church, built upon an ancient Inca palace and recognized as one of Peru's earliest Catholic structures. Along the route, there will be a stop at a lookout point to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Next, you will visit the Living Museum of Yucay, where you can witness the creation of textiles, adobe crafts, ceramics, and silverware using ancient Inca techniques. You will savor a delightful typical lunch in the Sacred Valley. After lunch, head to the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, an important ceremonial center renowned for its stunning agricultural terraces cascading down the surrounding mountainsides. Upon concluding this full-day tour, you will return to the hotel to rest and soak in the renewed Incan spirit. Overnight in Urubamba. (B, L)
Today after breakfast, you will picked up from your hotel in Urubamba (Sacred Valley) and transfers you to the Ollantaytambo train station. Board the Inca Rail's Voyager train from Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes station (Machu Picchu Town) and receive assistance upon your arrival. Your return trip to Ollantaytambo station will also be on board the 360° train. Each journey lasts about one and a half hours, and schedules are subject to availability. Aguas Calientes, located on the slopes of Machu Picchu, features a lively craft market, various restaurants, and lodging options. Just a 25-minute bus ride away is Machu Picchu, an impressive architectural and engineering marvel believed to have been a sanctuary and retreat for the Inca Pachacutec. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu translates to "Old Mountain," which enchants visitors with its historical grandeur and natural beauty. After the visit, travelers return by bus to Aguas Calientes to begin the journey back to Cusco. This tour is shared with other passengers. Enjoy a delicious set lunch menu at Café Inkaterra while taking in the breathtaking view of the Vilcanota River. After your train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a transfer will be waiting for you at the train station to take you to the selected hotel in Cusco. Overnight in Cusco. (B, L)
After breakfast, check-out of your hotel and get transferred to Velasco Astete International Airport for your departure flight. (B)
What is included
Not included
- International and domestic air tickets
- Early check in & late checkout
- Travel Insurance
- Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during meals
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, travel insurance, etc.)
- Tips
Frequently asked questions
1. How many days are ideal for a Peru tour?
A 7–10 day Peru tour is ideal for exploring Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and other major highlights.
2. What is the best time to visit Peru?
The best time to visit Peru is generally May to September, especially for visiting Machu Picchu and exploring the Andes, thanks to drier weather.
3. What are the best places to visit in Peru?
Top destinations include Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa.
4. What is Peru famous for?
Peru is famous for Machu Picchu, Inca history, the Andes Mountains, ancient archaeological sites, vibrant culture and world-renowned cuisine.
5. How do I get to Machu Picchu?
Most travellers travel from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes by train, followed by a short bus journey to Machu Picchu. Trekking routes are also available.
6. Is Peru suitable for families?
Yes. Peru offers family-friendly cultural experiences, scenic train journeys, archaeological sites, wildlife experiences and exciting outdoor activities.
7. What food should I try in Peru?
Popular dishes include ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina and causa, along with traditional Andean specialities.
8. Is Peru good for adventure travel?
Yes. Travellers can enjoy trekking, hiking, mountain adventures, scenic train journeys and exploring the Amazon rainforest.
9. Do I need to worry about altitude in Peru?
Some destinations, including Cusco and Lake Titicaca, are at high altitude. Travellers should allow time to acclimatise and stay hydrated before undertaking strenuous activities.
10. What should I pack for a Peru holiday?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, a light rain jacket and warm clothing for high-altitude destinations.
11. Can I combine Machu Picchu with other South American destinations?
Yes. Peru can be combined with destinations in countries such as Bolivia, Chile, Argentina or Brazil, depending on your itinerary and available connections.
12. Why should I visit Peru?
Peru offers an extraordinary combination of ancient Inca heritage, spectacular landscapes, fascinating cultures, delicious cuisine and iconic attractions such as Machu Picchu, making it an unforgettable travel destination.
Best Time to Visit Peru
The best time to visit Peru is from May to September, particularly for exploring Machu Picchu, Cusco and the Andes, when the weather is generally dry and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- May–September: Dry season, clear skies and excellent conditions for Machu Picchu and trekking.
- April & October: Shoulder months with pleasant weather and generally fewer crowds.
- November–March: Wetter season in the Andes, although the coast can still offer good weather.
Best overall: May to September for a classic Peru holiday and Machu Picchu experience.
