Overview
Embark on a 14-day journey through Peru, exploring its most iconic destinations — from the cosmopolitan capital of Lima to the mystical Andes and the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. This itinerary combines culture, history, nature, and adventure: wander through colonial cities, marvel at the Colca Canyon, sail on Lake Titicaca, and trace the footsteps of the Incas in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The trip concludes with a visit to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Highlights
- Discover the colonial charm of Lima, the “City of Kings.”
- Explore Arequipa’s White City and the stunning Colca Canyon, home of the majestic Andean condor.
- Sail on Lake Titicaca and visit the Uros floating islands and Taquile.
- Travel the scenic route from Puno to Cusco, with stops at temples, ruins, and Andean villages.
- Stroll through the ancient streets of Cusco and admire its archaeological treasures.
- Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
- End your journey at the world-famous Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Lima International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred in a private coach to your hotel located in the Historic Center of Lima.
After a long journey, the afternoon is free for rest and acclimatization.
Overnight in Lima.
Morning – Historic Lima:
Guided tour of the “City of Kings,” including the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral Basilica, and the exterior of the Government Palace. Continue with a panoramic visit to Plaza San Martín and admire Lima’s elegant colonial balconies.
Afternoon – Modern Lima & Museums:
Visit the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores, strolling through its Central Park and the modern Larcomar Mall, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Afterwards, explore the renowned Museo Larco Herrera, home to exquisite pre-Columbian gold, silver, ceramics, and textiles.
Overnight in Lima.
Morning:
Flight to Arequipa (2,350 m), a charming colonial city framed by three volcanoes. Transfer to your hotel.
Afternoon – Arequipa City Tour:
Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery, a fascinating “city within a city” with vibrant streets and cloisters. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the neoclassical Cathedral, and the Jesuit Church of La Compañía with its ornate baroque chapels. Conclude with sweeping views of the city and volcanoes from Yanahuara Viewpoint.
Overnight in Arequipa.
Depart for the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons. On the way, cross Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve, home to wild vicuñas. Reach Patapampa Pass (4,800 m), offering spectacular views of volcanic peaks. Arrival in Chivay.
Afternoon:
Relax in the natural hot springs of La Calera, surrounded by Andean scenery.
Overnight in Chivay (Colca Valley).
Morning – Condor’s Cross:
Travel to Cruz del Cóndor, the best viewpoint to admire the majestic flight of Andean condors. Explore picturesque villages such as Maca and Yanque, colonial churches, ancient Inca terraces, and pre-Hispanic cave paintings. Observe the still-active Sabancaya Volcano.
Afternoon:
Return to Arequipa, enjoying scenic valleys and Andean landscapes.
Overnight in Arequipa.
Morning:
Drive across the altiplano to Puno. On the way, visit the Sillustani Archaeological Complex, famous for its impressive circular funerary towers (chullpas) overlooking Lake Umayo.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Puno and embark on a boat tour to the Floating Uros Islands, where families still live on handmade reed islands and preserve centuries-old traditions.
Overnight in Puno.
Morning:
Boat trip to Taquile Island, known for its vibrant textile art recognized by UNESCO. Walk along its scenic trails, interact with local families, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Titicaca with Bolivia’s snowcapped Cordillera Real in the distance.
Afternoon:
Return by boat to Puno.
Overnight in Puno.
Travel by tourist coach along the Ruta del Sol, with several cultural stops:
- Pukara Museum – pre-Inca ceramics and monoliths.
- La Raya Pass (4,335 m) – natural border between Puno and Cusco.
- Sicuani – buffet lunch.
- Raqchi (Temple of Wiracocha) – impressive Inca ruins.
- Andahuaylillas – “The Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” a jewel of colonial art.
Arrive in Cusco in the evening.
Overnight in Cusco.
Morning:
Visit the Cathedral Basilica and the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), later transformed into the Convent of Santo Domingo.
Afternoon – Surroundings of Cusco:
Discover the nearby Inca complexes:
- Sacsayhuamán – massive fortress overlooking Cusco.
- Q’enqo – ceremonial site with carved rock altars.
- Puca Pucara – a strategic military post.
- Tambomachay – ritual baths linked to water worship.
Overnight in Cusco.
Morning:
Travel through the fertile Sacred Valley. Explore the Pisac Market, famous for its colorful textiles and crafts, and the Pisac Archaeological Complex overlooking the valley.
Afternoon:
Continue to Ollantaytambo, an impressive fortress-town with terraces, temples, and Inca streets still in use.
Overnight in Ollantaytambo.
Morning:
Board the train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, transfer by bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Guided tour through its highlights: the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana sundial, Main Plaza, and the Temple of the Three Windows.
Afternoon:
Free time to explore or simply soak in the mystical atmosphere. Return to Aguas Calientes.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Morning:
Enjoy free time in Aguas Calientes or optional second entrance to Machu Picchu (e.g., hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain).
Afternoon:
Take the train back to Ollantaytambo and continue by bus to Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.
Flight back to Lima. Upon arrival, optional visit to the Gold Museum of Peru, showcasing pre-Columbian treasures, ceramics, mummies, and artifacts from Chavín, Mochica, and Chimú cultures.
Overnight in Lima.
Transfer to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your international flight.
End of services.
Includes
The Cost Includes
- Accommodation with daily breakfast (13 nights).
- All transfers and land transportation.
- Domestic flights within Peru.
- Tours as per itinerary with professional guides.
- Entrance fees to all sites mentioned.
- Train tickets: Cusco – Aguas Calientes – Cusco.
- Bus to/from Machu Picchu.
- First aid kit.
The Cost Excludes
- International flight & airport taxes.
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Extra services, optional excursions, laundry, personal expenses.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and staff.
- Travel insurance.
FAQs
This tour is designed for travelers of all ages with a moderate fitness level. Some high-altitude destinations (Cusco, Colca, Puno) may require acclimatization.
The best season is the dry season (April – October) with sunny days and crisp nights, ideal for exploring the Andes and Machu Picchu.
Yes! Extra nights, luxury upgrades, or extensions (e.g., Amazon Rainforest, Nazca Lines, Paracas) can be arranged on request.


