Best of Peru in 10 Days – Cusco – Machu Picchu – Puno – Lima – Ica

After enjoying a delicious breakfast early in the morning, we will begin our journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop will be the charming village of Chinchero, where you will visit the Chinchero Archaeological Site and enjoy a unique demonstration of traditional Andean textile weaving. This is one of the best places in the region to purchase high-quality handmade textiles.

Continuing our tour, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines and the fascinating agricultural terraces of Moray, two of the Sacred Valley’s most iconic attractions. The Maras Salt Mines feature more than 3,000 salt ponds that have been used since Inca times, while Moray is renowned for its circular terraces that demonstrate the Incas’ advanced understanding of microclimates and agricultural experimentation. This remarkable site reflects the diversity of Peru’s three natural regions: the Coast, Highlands, and Amazon.

Next, we will travel into the heart of the Urubamba Valley, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch surrounded by spectacular Andean scenery. In the afternoon, we will continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important and impressive Inca archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. Its massive stone terraces, ceremonial structures, and strategic location offer breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Inca Empire.

At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel in the Sacred Valley for an overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel: Sacred Valley

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will transfer you to the Ollantaytambo train station. The scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes offers an unforgettable experience, with panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the Sacred Valley as you travel toward the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, our representative will welcome you and accompany you to your hotel.

Aguas Calientes is a picturesque mountain town renowned for its natural hot springs and welcoming atmosphere. At the scheduled time, you will board the bus that ascends to the legendary Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. During the visit, your expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights about this iconic archaeological masterpiece nestled high in the Andes.

You will explore some of Machu Picchu’s most important landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Sundial (Intihuatana), the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, and the Sacred Rock. This guided tour offers a captivating introduction to the history, architecture, and culture of the Inca civilization.

After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace and take in its breathtaking surroundings. Later, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can spend the afternoon exploring the town, relaxing in the hot springs, or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere of this gateway to Machu Picchu.

Enjoy an unforgettable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Aguas Calientes

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will have free time in the morning to further explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes. You may choose to visit the Butterfly Sanctuary, relax in the famous hot springs, or simply stroll through the town at your leisure. You will also have time to enjoy lunch on your own before departure.

At the scheduled time, please make your way to the train station to board the Vistadome train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The journey lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and offers a unique travel experience. On board, you will enjoy live performances of traditional Andean dances featuring colorful costumes, complimentary snacks and beverages, attentive service, and cultural touches that enhance your journey through the breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we will transfer you back to the city of Cusco. Take advantage of the opportunity to visit some of the museums included in your BTG Tourist Ticket. Later, at 6:30 p.m., you can attend a live folkloric dance performance at the Qosqo Native Art Center, also included with your tourist ticket.

After the show, make your way to your hotel in Cusco for an overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Cusco

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel early in the morning, we will transfer you to the bus terminal to begin the famous Route of the Sun tour, a scenic journey connecting Cusco and Puno through some of the most important cultural and historical sites of the Peruvian Andes.

Our first stop will be the Temple of Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America." This remarkable colonial church is renowned for its stunning interior, featuring magnificent Baroque frescoes, beautifully decorated ceilings, and intricate artistic details that make it one of South America's most treasured architectural gems.

We will then continue to the archaeological site of Raqchi, located in the Southern Valley of Cusco. This impressive Inca complex is home to the Temple of Wiracocha, distinguished by its enormous stone and adobe walls. Raqchi stands as an extraordinary example of the architectural and religious achievements of the Inca civilization.

Along the route, we will stop for a delicious lunch before continuing to La Raya Pass, situated at over 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level. This spectacular mountain pass marks the natural border between the Cusco and Puno regions and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes Mountains.

Our final stop will be the Pucará Lithic Museum, where you will learn about one of the oldest pre-Inca cultures of the Andean highlands and admire its fascinating stone sculptures and archaeological artifacts.

After the visit, we will continue our journey to the city of Puno, arriving at approximately 6:00 p.m. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel: Puno

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel to begin our excursion to the legendary Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.

You will board a boat and travel to the fascinating Uros Floating Islands. The handicrafts of the Uros people are unique cultural expressions made from totora reeds, including decorative figures, baskets, and traditional boats. These handcrafted products reflect the ancestral skills of the island inhabitants and their deep connection to the lake and its natural resources.

One of the highlights of the visit is learning about the famous reed boats, which are carefully constructed from woven totora reeds by local families. These impressive vessels showcase centuries of traditional engineering and have long been used for fishing and transportation, providing a remarkable insight into the Uros way of life.

Next, we will continue to Amantani Island, a peaceful retreat rich in Andean traditions and culture. Known for its agricultural terraces, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities, Amantani offers visitors the opportunity to experience authentic Andean life while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Titicaca.

After the tour, we will return to the city of Puno. You will have the remainder of the afternoon free to explore the city at your own pace.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel: Puno

After enjoying a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, and according to your flight schedule, we will transfer you to Juliaca Airport in Puno for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Peru’s capital city, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

You will then have the remainder of the afternoon free to explore the fascinating City of Kings at your own pace. We recommend visiting Barranco, Lima’s most bohemian district, renowned for its vibrant artistic atmosphere, colorful murals, charming streets, and lively cultural scene. Another excellent option is the Miraflores Lighthouse, located along the scenic Malecón of Miraflores, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the city’s beautiful coastline.

After exploring Lima on your own, return to your hotel and enjoy a restful overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Lima

At 4:00 a.m., you will be picked up from your hotel. At 4:30 a.m., we will depart by bus towards Paracas. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast before beginning your excursion to the Ballestas Islands.

The Ballestas Islands tour offers an exciting encounter with Peru’s rich marine wildlife. During the boat excursion, you will have the opportunity to observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of exotic seabirds in their natural habitat. This unforgettable experience showcases the remarkable beauty and biodiversity of the Peruvian coastline.

Afterward, we will continue to the stunning Huacachina Oasis. Surrounded by towering golden sand dunes, this natural desert oasis is one of Peru’s most spectacular destinations. Its tranquil lagoon creates a striking contrast against the vast desert landscape and serves as the perfect setting for adventure activities.

You will also experience an exhilarating dune buggy ride across the desert. These powerful sand vehicles provide an adrenaline-filled adventure through the towering dunes, featuring thrilling climbs, sharp turns, and breathtaking panoramic views of the oasis and the surrounding desert. For those seeking even more excitement, there will be opportunities to try sandboarding on the dunes.

At the end of the tour, we will return to Lima, arriving at approximately 10:00 p.m. After this memorable day of exploration and adventure, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Lima

After a restful night, enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You will then have the morning free to continue exploring Lima, the City of Kings, at your own pace and discover more of its rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere.

At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel to begin the Lima City Tour. Our first stop will be Lima’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved colonial architecture. Here, you will visit iconic landmarks such as the Main Square (Plaza Mayor), the magnificent Lima Cathedral, and the historic San Francisco Monastery, offering a fascinating journey through the capital’s colonial past.

Next, we will explore the famous Catacombs of San Francisco, an intriguing underground labyrinth of crypts and burial chambers containing thousands of human remains. This remarkable site provides a unique insight into colonial burial traditions and Lima’s religious heritage.

We will then continue to the Huaca Pucllana Pyramid, an impressive pre-Inca ceremonial and administrative center built from adobe bricks. This ancient archaeological site stands as a testament to the advanced civilizations that flourished on Peru’s central coast long before the Inca Empire.

Finally, we will conclude our tour in the district of Miraflores, where you will visit the beautiful Love Park (Parque del Amor). Perched along the coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this iconic park offers spectacular ocean views and is the perfect place to enjoy Lima’s stunning coastline.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Lima

At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Lima International Airport for your departing flight.

Saying goodbye to Peru means bidding farewell to a country filled with extraordinary natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences. From the majestic Andes Mountains to the vibrant coastal cities, Peru leaves a lasting impression on every traveler. The warmth of its people, combined with its fascinating history, world-renowned cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, makes every farewell feel more like a heartfelt "see you again."

We hope you leave with wonderful memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Peru.

Meals Included: Breakfast