The Best of Peru in 11 Days – Cusco – Machu Picchu – Lima – Ica

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you will begin your journey through the magnificent Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop will be the charming village of Chinchero, where you will visit its impressive archaeological site and enjoy a unique cultural experience at a traditional weaving center. This is one of the best places in the region to learn about ancient textile techniques and purchase high-quality handmade textiles.

The tour continues to two of the Sacred Valley's most iconic attractions: the Maras Salt Mines and the Moray Agricultural Laboratory. The Salt Mines of Maras feature more than 3,000 salt pools that have been used since Inca times and continue to be harvested by local families today.

Next, you will explore the fascinating archaeological site of Moray, famous for its impressive circular terraces. These concentric terraces demonstrate the Incas' advanced understanding of agriculture, microclimates, and crop experimentation, allowing them to cultivate products from Peru's three natural regions: the Coast, Highlands, and Amazon.

Afterward, we will descend into the beautiful Urubamba Valley, where you will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring local and international cuisine.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important and best-preserved Inca towns in Peru. This remarkable archaeological site features massive stone terraces, impressive temples, and stunning views of the Sacred Valley, offering visitors a fascinating insight into Inca engineering, architecture, and history.

At the end of the tour, we will transfer you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you will spend the night surrounded by the spectacular Andean landscape.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel in the 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, featuring breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the Sacred Valley as you travel toward the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our representative will welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Nestled among lush mountains, Aguas Calientes is a charming town renowned for its relaxing hot springs and welcoming atmosphere.

At the scheduled time, you will board the shuttle bus to the legendary Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. During the guided tour, your expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights about this extraordinary archaeological masterpiece hidden among the Andean peaks.

You will explore some of Machu Picchu's most iconic landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Intihuatana (Sun Clock), the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, and the Sacred Rock. This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of the history, architecture, and culture of the Inca civilization.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace, take photographs, and appreciate the breathtaking surroundings.

Later, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where the remainder of the afternoon is free for you to explore the town, browse local shops, enjoy the cafés, or relax in the famous natural hot springs.

Spend an unforgettable evening in Aguas Calientes and enjoy a restful overnight stay before continuing your Peruvian adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

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

At the scheduled time, make your way to the train station and board the Vistadome train for your return journey to Ollantaytambo. The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding Andean landscapes.

During the journey, you will enjoy live onboard entertainment featuring traditional Andean dances performed in colorful costumes. The Vistadome experience also includes attentive onboard service, complimentary beverages and snacks, and cultural touches that make the journey both comfortable and memorable.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our transportation service will transfer you back to the city of Cusco.

The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to visit some of the museums included in your Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTG). In the evening, at approximately 6:30 p.m., you may attend the live folkloric performance at the Qosqo Native Art Center, where traditional music and dances from different regions of Peru are showcased. This cultural experience is also included with your tourist ticket.

After the performance, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of your evening in Cusco.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

Your day begins early at 4:00 a.m. with a hotel pick-up in Cusco. We will then travel through the beautiful Andean countryside toward Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru's most spectacular natural attractions.

Our first stop will be in the village of Cusipata, where you will enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing the journey to the trailhead.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes approximately two hours and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes. Along the route, you will encounter stunning landscapes, herds of alpacas and llamas, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Andean communities.

Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is a remarkable geological formation famous for its vibrant bands of color created by millions of years of mineral sedimentation. Located high in the Andes near Cusco, this natural wonder provides a unique visual spectacle and an exciting trekking experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Reaching the summit is an unforgettable accomplishment. From the top, you will be rewarded with extraordinary panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it one of the most memorable experiences of your journey through Peru.

For those who prefer a less demanding ascent, horses are available for rent along part of the route, allowing travelers to enjoy the magnificent scenery while reducing the physical effort required to reach the summit.

After spending time exploring and taking photographs at Rainbow Mountain, we will return to Cusipata, where a delicious lunch will be served.

In the afternoon, we will travel back to the Imperial City of Cusco, concluding this incredible adventure in the Andes.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will have a free morning to relax, explore at your own pace, or simply prepare for the afternoon excursion.

At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel to begin a fascinating tour of the Imperial City of Cusco. Known as the former capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a living testament to the remarkable blend of Andean and Spanish cultures, where ancient Inca foundations support beautiful colonial buildings.

Our tour begins with a visit to the Convent of Santo Domingo, built atop the remains of Qoricancha, the most important temple of the Inca Empire. Once covered in sheets of gold and dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, Qoricancha showcases some of the finest examples of Inca stonework and architecture.

Next, we will visit the impressive Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, one of the most remarkable achievements of Inca engineering. Famous for its enormous limestone blocks, some weighing more than 100 tons, this monumental archaeological site continues to amaze visitors from around the world with its precision and grandeur.

The tour continues with visits to several important archaeological sites located on the outskirts of Cusco:

• Qenqo – A fascinating ceremonial center featuring carved rock formations, underground passages, and sacred chambers believed to have been used for religious rituals.
• Puka Pukara – Known as the "Red Fortress," this military and administrative complex served as a strategic control point along the routes leading to Cusco.
• Tambomachay – Often referred to as the "Temple of Water," this site is renowned for its sophisticated aqueducts, fountains, and water channels that still function today.

After exploring these remarkable Inca sites, we will return to the city of Cusco and transfer you back to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

Your adventure begins early at 4:00 a.m. with a hotel pick-up in Cusco. From there, we will embark on a scenic two-hour drive to the village of Mollepata, where we will stop for breakfast at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, we will continue the journey for approximately one more hour to Soraypampa, the starting point of our hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake.

Upon arrival at the trailhead, we will begin the ascent along a beautiful section of the famous Salkantay Trek. The trail gradually climbs through stunning Andean landscapes, offering spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and pristine valleys. Along the route, we will pass a small campsite frequently used by trekkers traveling the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu.

The hike covers approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) and gains about 387 meters (1,270 feet) in elevation. After approximately one and a half hours of uphill trekking, you will reach the final moraine, where the magnificent Humantay Lake suddenly appears in all its beauty. Its striking turquoise waters are fed by the melting glaciers of the towering Humantay Mountain.

During the hike, you will enjoy extraordinary views of Mount Salkantay, one of the highest and most sacred peaks in the Cusco region, rising to 6,300 meters (20,669 feet) above sea level. Revered by local communities, this majestic mountain dominates the landscape. The impressive Humantay Peak, reaching 5,900 meters (19,357 feet), is also visible throughout much of the journey.

Upon reaching the lake, you will have time to relax, take photographs, enjoy light snacks, and fully appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of this magical destination surrounded by towering Andean peaks.

When you are ready, we will descend back to Soraypampa, where a delicious lunch will be served. After lunch, we will begin the return journey to Cusco, arriving approximately two hours later and transferring you back to your hotel.

This concludes our unforgettable Humantay Lake adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

After enjoying a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Cusco Airport according to your scheduled flight time for your journey to Lima, Peru's vibrant capital city.

Upon arrival in Lima, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day will be free for you to explore the City of Kings at your own pace.

You may choose to visit the charming district of Barranco, Lima's bohemian neighborhood, famous for its colorful street art, colonial architecture, art galleries, cafés, and lively cultural atmosphere. Walking through its picturesque streets offers a wonderful glimpse into Lima's artistic and creative spirit.

Another highly recommended attraction is the Miraflores Lighthouse, located along the scenic Malecón of Miraflores. This iconic coastal landmark offers spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, beautiful parks, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the shoreline.

Take advantage of your free afternoon to discover Lima's unique blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and modern city life before returning to your hotel for a restful evening.

Overnight stay in Lima.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Lima

Your day begins early with a hotel pick-up at 4:00 a.m. At approximately 4:30 a.m., you will depart by tourist bus for Paracas, one of Peru's most beautiful coastal destinations.

Upon arrival in Paracas, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast before beginning your excursion to the famous Ballestas Islands. Often referred to as the "Galápagos of Peru," the Ballestas Islands are home to an extraordinary variety of marine wildlife. During the boat tour, you will have the opportunity to observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and numerous species of seabirds in their natural habitat while admiring the spectacular scenery of Peru's Pacific coastline.

After the Ballestas Islands excursion, we will continue to the breathtaking Huacachina Oasis. Surrounded by towering golden sand dunes, this natural desert oasis is one of the most unique landscapes in South America. The tranquil lagoon, framed by palm trees and desert scenery, creates a stunning contrast against the vast sandy surroundings.

In Huacachina, you will experience one of the region's most exciting activities: a thrilling dune buggy ride across the desert. These powerful sand vehicles race over massive dunes, providing an adrenaline-filled adventure complete with steep climbs, exciting descents, and spectacular panoramic views.

You will also have the opportunity to try sandboarding, one of Peru's most popular adventure activities. Glide down the soft sand dunes while enjoying the incredible desert landscape that makes Huacachina a favorite destination for travelers from around the world.

After an unforgettable day exploring Peru's coast and desert, we will begin our return journey to Lima. Arrival is expected at approximately 10:00 p.m., after which you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Lima

After a restful night, enjoy breakfast at your hotel and take advantage of the morning at your leisure. This free time allows you to further explore Lima, Peru's vibrant capital, or simply relax before the afternoon tour.

At the scheduled time, we will pick you up from your hotel and begin our guided exploration of the City of Kings.

Our first destination will be Lima's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Here, you will visit some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Main Square (Plaza Mayor), the impressive Cathedral of Lima, and the historic San Francisco Monastery. This fascinating district offers a remarkable journey through Peru's colonial history and cultural heritage.

Next, we will explore the famous Catacombs of San Francisco, an intriguing underground labyrinth of tunnels, crypts, and burial chambers. This unique historical site provides valuable insight into colonial-era burial traditions and the religious history of Lima.

The tour then continues to Huaca Pucllana, an impressive pre-Inca ceremonial and administrative center constructed from adobe bricks. Located in the heart of modern Lima, this archaeological complex offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilizations that flourished along Peru's coast long before the rise of the Inca Empire.

Our final stop will be the beautiful district of Miraflores, where we will visit the iconic Love Park (Parque del Amor). Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this scenic park offers breathtaking coastal views and is one of Lima's most popular attractions.

At the conclusion of the tour, you will return to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Peru's capital city.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel in Lima

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy your remaining free time until your scheduled transfer to Lima Airport.

At the agreed time, our representative will pick you up from your hotel and provide transportation to the airport for your international departure flight.

As your unforgettable journey through Peru comes to an end, you will leave with lasting memories of one of South America's most fascinating destinations. From the majestic Andes Mountains and the ancient wonders of the Inca civilization to the breathtaking landscapes of Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, and the Pacific Coast, Peru offers experiences that remain with travelers long after they return home.

The warmth of its people, the richness of its history, and the world-renowned flavors of its cuisine make every farewell a heartfelt "see you again" rather than a goodbye. We hope the memories of your adventure will inspire you to return and continue exploring the incredible beauty and cultural treasures of Peru.

Thank you for traveling with us, and we wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.

Meals Included: Breakfast