Overview
Embark on a 15-day journey across Peru, exploring its most iconic destinations and hidden treasures. From the bustling capital of Lima and the colonial charm of Arequipa to the majestic Colca Canyon and the serene waters of Lake Titicaca, each stop immerses you in the country’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Continue to the imperial city of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the crown jewel of the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu. This itinerary combines history, archaeology, breathtaking scenery, and authentic cultural experiences for an unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
- Guided exploration of Lima, the “City of Kings”
- Discover the Santa Catalina Convent and colonial gems of Arequipa
- Witness condors soaring over the Colca Canyon
- Boat excursion to the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca
- Scenic overland journey from Puno to Cusco, with cultural stops at Raqchi and Andahuaylillas
- Guided tours of Cusco’s historic center and nearby Inca ruins
- Market shopping in Pisac and exploration of Ollantaytambo fortress
- Visit to the Lost City of Machu Picchu with expert guide
- Leisure days in Cusco and Lima to explore at your own pace
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Lima International Airport, you will be assisted and transferred by private coach to your hotel, located in the historic downtown area. After your long journey, we recommend taking some time to rest. Overnight stay in Lima.
In the morning, enjoy a private guided tour of the “City of Kings.” Visit the Plaza Mayor, the Basilica Cathedral, the Government Palace (exterior), and admire the colonial balconies and Plaza San Martín.
Next, explore the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, including Miraflores Central Park and Larcomar, an entertainment and shopping center offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
In the afternoon, visit the Larco Museum, home to a remarkable collection of Pre-Columbian textiles, ceramics, and metalwork, including gold and silver artifacts decorated with semiprecious stones from ancient civilizations. Overnight stay in Lima.
Morning flight to Arequipa, known as the “White City” for its colonial buildings made of volcanic sillar stone.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided city tour including the Santa Catalina Convent, Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, colonial churches, the Jesuit cloisters of La Compañía, and the Yanahuara viewpoint. Overnight stay in Arequipa.
Depart Arequipa and travel to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world. On the way, cross the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, where vicuñas roam freely, and reach the high pass of Patapampa (4,800 m) for stunning views of the Andes.
Arrive in Chivay for hotel check-in. In the afternoon, relax at the La Calera thermal baths. Overnight stay in Chivay.
Early morning visit to Cruz del Cóndor, the best viewpoint to observe the majestic Andean condor in flight.
Continue exploring the local villages such as Maca and Llonque, their colonial churches, Inca terraces, and ancient cave paintings. Admire views of the active Sabancaya Volcano.
Return to Chivay for lunch, then travel back to Arequipa. Overnight stay in Arequipa.
Travel by private coach across the Andes toward Puno. Before arriving, stop at the Sillustani Archaeological Complex on Lake Umayo, famous for its Chullpas, impressive circular stone funerary towers built by the Colla and Inca cultures.
Arrive in Puno. In the afternoon, take a guided visit to the Floating Islands of Uros on Lake Titicaca, where families live on handmade islands built from totora reeds. Overnight stay in Puno.
Take a motorboat across Lake Titicaca to Taquile Island, inhabited by communities that preserve ancient traditions, colorful textiles, and unique clothing styles. Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and Bolivia’s snow-capped Cordillera Real.
Return to Puno in the afternoon. Overnight stay in Puno.
Board a tourist bus to Cusco with stops along the way:
- Pukara Museum, showcasing pre-Inca artifacts.
- La Raya Pass (4,335 m), the highest point on the route and natural divide between Puno and Cusco.
- Sicuani, where you will enjoy a traditional lunch.
- Raqchi (Temple of Wiracocha), one of the most important Inca sanctuaries.
- Andahuaylillas Church, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” for its baroque frescoes and ornate decorations.
Arrive in Cusco in the evening. Overnight stay in Cusco.
Morning guided tour of Cusco’s historic center: Cathedral Basilica on Plaza de Armas and Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), later converted into the Convent of Santo Domingo.
Then explore nearby archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán fortress, Q’enqo ceremonial site, Puca Pucara watchtower, and Tambomachay baths. Overnight stay in Cusco.
Full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley. Visit the town of Pisac and its lively market, then explore the impressive Ollantaytambo archaeological site, featuring massive terraces, temples, and palaces.
Overnight stay in Ollantaytambo.
Morning train ride to Aguas Calientes, followed by a short bus to Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas,” rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham.
Guided tour of its highlights: Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, Temple of the Three Windows, Main Square, terraces, and more. Free time to explore before returning to Aguas Calientes. Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Morning free for personal activities or an optional second visit to Machu Picchu.
In the afternoon, board the train back to Cusco. Overnight stay in Cusco.
Day at leisure to explore Cusco on your own: stroll through cobblestone streets, visit museums, local markets, Inca palaces, and colonial churches. Overnight stay in Cusco.
Morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Optional afternoon visit to the Gold Museum of Peru, which houses extraordinary gold artifacts, ceramics, textiles, mummies, and funerary bundles from ancient cultures. Overnight stay in Lima.
Transfer to Jorge Chávez International Airport.
End of services.
Includes
The Cost Includes
- All nights accommodation in Hotel (breakfast included)
- All the transfers and land transportations indicated in the itinerary
- Domestic flights in Peru
- All tours in accordance with the official program
- All entrance tickets in excursions indicated in the itinerary
- Professional guides for all excursions indicated in the itinerary
- Touristic Train tickets * Cusco - Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu)- Cusco
- First aid kid
The Cost Excludes
- Airport taxes ($30.25 for international flights and $6.05 for domestic flights)
- Meals (lunch and dinner are included only where stated)
- Services, excursions, hotels and meals not mentioned
- Baggage excess
- Laundry service
- Personal expenses
- Tips
FAQs
The best months are April to October (dry season), when skies are clearer and conditions are ideal for sightseeing. November to March is the rainy season, but landscapes are greener.
Yes, some destinations are located above 3,000 meters (Cusco, Puno, Colca Canyon). It is recommended to stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals upon arrival, and take it easy the first day. Coca tea and altitude medication can help.
Comfortable 3–4 star hotels with private bathrooms and breakfast included. Upgrades to luxury hotels are available upon request.
Yes, the Lima–Arequipa and Cusco–Lima flights are included (unless otherwise specified in your package). Additional flights can be arranged.
Moderate. The itinerary includes walking tours, archaeological site visits with stairs, and some high-altitude conditions. It is suitable for most travelers with average fitness levels.
Absolutely. Optional tours such as a second visit to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu hike, culinary experiences in Lima, or luxury train upgrades can be arranged.
Yes. All tours and excursions are led by professional English-speaking guides with expertise in Peruvian history and culture.
