Photo: Hans Brian Brandsberg Berg · CC BY 2.0 · https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=152692269
Peru is a country of natural wonders, rich culture and ancient history. For this reason, we have selected the most emblematic tourist destinations in the south of the country, guaranteeing that you live an unforgettable experience on your adventure through Peruvian lands. This 13-day itinerary has been designed to offer you an ideal vacation, where you can disconnect from your routine and enjoy the best of Peru, touring its coast, deserts and majestic mountains.
Upon arrival in Lima, capital of Peru, our team will be available to provide you with all the necessary assistance, guaranteeing comfort and peace of mind at every stage. ♦ Reception upon disembarkation. ♦ Assistance during check-in at the hotel. ♦ Delivery of general information about tours and activities in Lima. After check-in, our team will give you a brief orientation on the day's program, the main tourist spots, recommended restaurants and shops. It is recommended to rest for a few hours to regain energy and make the most of the free afternoon. Optional tour suggestion: ♦ Magic Water Circuit — A nighttime show of lights, colors and music in the main fountains of Lima. ♦ Pachacámac Archaeological Complex + Barranco — An ancient sanctuary dedicated to the creator god Pachacámac, combined with a visit to the charming neighborhood of Barranco, known for its art, its cultural life and its beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Overnight in Lima.
Breakfast at the hotel. From 9:00 to 12:30 (approximately): After breakfast, we will visit the main tourist spots in Lima. We will begin the tour by visiting the Parque del Amor, where there will be a moment to take photographs with a view of the sea. Then we will continue with a panoramic visit to the external part of the Huaca Pucllana. Later we will go to the Historic Center of Lima, where it will be possible to see the Paseo de la República (Casa Roosevelt), the Plaza San Martín and the Plaza Mayor. During the journey we will also see important buildings such as the Government Palace and the Cathedral Basilica, among others. We will conclude the tour with a visit to the Church and Convent of San Francisco, where the impressive underground crypts are located. At the end of the tour, we will return to the hotel. The afternoon is free to discover the best restaurants and enjoy Peruvian cuisine, widely recognized internationally. Overnight in Lima.
Upon arriving at the Lima terminal, we will board a tourist bus bound for Paracas; During the trip, take the opportunity to rest. Upon arrival at the Paracas terminal, we will be waiting for you with a sign identifying your name to transfer you to the indicated hotel. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (approximately) — We will begin the tour of the Paracas National Reserve in shared service. During the ride, we will explore the coastal desert and visit its most famous beaches, such as Playa Roja, La Mina and Lagunillas. We will make several panoramic stops, including the Mirador del Istmo de la Península, from where you can get a spectacular view of Paracas Bay. There will be free time to take photos, walk and even enjoy a sea swim at Playa La Mina. We will end the tour by returning to Paracas around 3:00 p.m., after a day full of natural beauty and unique landscapes of the Peruvian coast. Note: Remember that breakfast is not included this day. Overnight in Paracas.
Breakfast at the hotel. From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (approximately) — The adventure begins with boarding at the El Chaco dock, in Paracas. Aboard a speed boat, we will sail to the Candelabra, a figure sculpted on the slope of the peninsula. Then we will continue to the Ballestas Islands, a natural sanctuary that is home to sea lions, Humboldt penguins and several species of birds. After returning to Paracas and a brief rest, we will transfer to the bus terminal to board to the Huacachina Oasis (approximately 1h30 trip). Upon arrival, we will drop off our luggage and have free time to explore this beautiful oasis, perfect for photos and a quiet lunch. Next, we will begin the dune buggy and sandboarding tour (1 hour), an exciting journey through the desert with stops for photos and sandboarding. We will end the day at the top of a dune, admiring the sunset over the Huacachina Oasis (available according to the tour conditions). Then we will return to Paracas to continue our adventure towards Nazca. Overnight in Nazca.
Breakfast at the hotel. Our team, according to weather conditions, will schedule a time for the transfer from the hotel to the boarding place, where we will have the opportunity to learn about the magnificent legacy left by the pre-Inca culture. During the flyover, we will appreciate the immense figures of the monkey, hummingbird, astronaut, among others, drawn on the desert. The flights are carried out in the Pampas of Jumana, in modern Cessna 207A aircraft, piloted by professionals experienced in the region and the local climate. All overflights follow rigorous safety standards in accordance with the Aeronautical Regulations of Peru. Additionally, our pilot will share recommendations to take the best photos and make the most of this unique experience. After the flyover, we will continue our trip in the afternoon towards the White City of Arequipa, famous for its architecture built with white ashlar, a volcanic stone that gives the city its unique charm. Observations: On this day a Day Use is already included, and the transfer will be two hours before the departure of the bus to Arequipa. Night trip in first class bus with semi-sleeper seat.
Arrival and transfer to the hotel to rest. From 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (approximately) — After lunch (lunch at the client's expense), we will leave for a walk through the city of Arequipa. We will continue towards the Mirador de Carmen Alto, from where it is possible to see a dazzling panoramic view of the Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. Next, we will visit the traditional neighborhood of Yanahuara, famous for its charming main square. Our walk continues to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, one of the greatest symbols of the city, considered a true living museum. We will end the walk in the Plaza de Armas, where we can observe the local routine and admire the majestic Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa, the Church of the Company of Jesus and the Casona Tristán del Pozo. Optional visit: Meet the Juanita Mummy, discovered in 1995 and preserved since. It is currently located in the Sanctuary of the Andes Museum (Remembering that the entrance is not included in the package; for more information, consult your travel agent). Note: Remember that breakfast is not included on this day. Overnight in Arequipa.
Breakfast at the hotel. On this day, we will have the morning free to enjoy a little of the city of Arequipa, walking through its beautiful colonial streets. In the afternoon, at the time coordinated with our team, we will transfer to the land terminal to board a comfortable tourist bus, bound for the city of Puno, which is located at 3,827 meters above sea level. During the trip, we will be able to appreciate beautiful landscapes with impressive views of the Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. After approximately 6 to 7 hours of travel, we will arrive at the city of Puno, where the impressive Lake Titicaca will welcome us with its breathtaking landscape. Then, our team will be ready at the land terminal to transfer you to the hotel and assist with check-in. We recommend resting a few hours for better acclimatization. The night is free, ideal to explore more of the city and learn about its local culture. Overnight in Puno.
Breakfast at the hotel. From 7:30 to 16:00 (approximately) — After breakfast, we will begin the transfer to the port of Puno, from where we will embark to Lake Titicaca, considered the highest navigable lake in the world. Our first stop will be at the Uros Floating Islands, made up of several layers of reeds, an aquatic plant used by the local community to build the islands and their boats. Then we will continue to the Island of Taquile, where we will be received by its residents with hospitality and warmth. During the visit, we will have the opportunity to learn about their traditions and lifestyle, in addition to enjoying a typical lunch prepared with local products, a true cultural experience. Afterwards, there will be time to take photographs and record memorable moments on this unique island. At the end of the afternoon, we will return to the pier to begin the return trip to the city of Puno. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel, where you can rest and take advantage of the rest of the afternoon and free night. Overnight in Puno.
Breakfast at the hotel. From 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (approximately) — On this day, our team will be ready to transfer you to the indicated land terminal. Then, we will depart on a tourist bus to travel the famous Ruta del Sol to the city of Cusco. Our first stop will be at the archaeological complex of Pucará, an ancient pre-Inca center famous for its ceramics and the traditional Pucará Bulls. Afterwards, we will continue towards La Raya, the highest point of our route (4,335 meters of altitude). Continuing the trip, we will make a stop in Sicuani, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch with typical dishes of regional cuisine. The next visit will be to the archaeological site of Raqchi, known as the Temple of Wiracocha, dedicated to the Sun God. Finally, we will visit the town of Andahuaylillas, where we will visit its beautiful colonial church, considered the Sistine Chapel of the Andes. Closing the tour, we will arrive at the city of Cusco, located at 3,400 meters above sea level, where our team will transfer you to the hotel so you can rest after a day full of history. Overnight in Cusco.
Breakfast at the hotel. From 9:00 to 11:00 (approximately) — We will take a tour of the Historic Center with our local guide. The starting point will be Plaza Regocijo, located a few steps from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco (exclusive courtesy service for our clients). From 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (approximately) — We will begin the Archaeological City Tour. The point of reference will be the façade of the Church of Santo Domingo, located next to the Coricancha, whose name means “Golden Wall” or “Temple of the Sun”. This will be our first stop. Then we will continue to four archaeological sites: the imposing Sacsayhuamán Fortress, recognized for the celebration of the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun); later Qenqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay, famous for its system of Inca sources. Before finishing the tour, we will make a special stop to interact with Peruvian llamas and alpacas. The return to Cusco is scheduled for approximately 6:00 p.m. Upon arrival, our team will be able to drop you off at your hotel or in the main square of the city. Overnight in Cusco.
Breakfast at the hotel. From 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (approximately) — The long-awaited day of the pre-tour to Machu Picchu has arrived. In the morning we will leave for the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop will be the Taray viewpoint, from where we will appreciate the impressive view of the valley. Following the itinerary, we will visit the Pisac Archaeological Center with our guide. We will also visit a jewelry store in Pisac to learn about the symbolism and mysticism present in each handmade piece. Then we will continue to Urubamba, where we will stop for lunch. Later, we will continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the best examples of Inca urban planning. At the end of the tour, we will board the train at the Ollantaytambo station bound for Aguas Calientes, a trip of approximately two hours. Upon arrival, our team will be waiting for you in the main square of Aguas Calientes – a picturesque town located at about 2,040 meters above sea level – with a sign that identifies your name, to assist you to the hotel. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
The most anticipated day has finally arrived. On this day we will visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the impressive Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. Our team will be available early to assist you in the transfer from the hotel to boarding the bus (the schedule will be adjusted according to your entry ticket). During the tour, our professional guide will share the secrets, stories and mysteries of the place in a guided tour of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. After the guided tour, you will have free time to leisurely explore the site. At the end, the guide will tell you the exact time to return to the town of Aguas Calientes, from where you will board the train again to the Poroy or Wanchaq stations, located near the city of Cusco. Our team will be waiting for you upon arrival to transfer you back to the hotel. If you want to make your experience even more special, check out our exclusive services below: Optional services: ♦ Lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge hotel — Located near the gates of the Inca citadel. ♦ Return by train in the “Vistadome” car — An unforgettable panoramic experience, with large windows that allow you to appreciate all the beauty of the Sacred Valley. ♦ Return by train in the Premium car “Vistadome Observatory” or Inca Rail 360° — With on-board service, observation car and live cultural presentations. ♦ Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain — An impressive hike with a privileged view of the entire Machu Picchu complex. Overnight in Cusco.
Breakfast at the hotel. At the coordinated time, we will transfer from the hotel to the airport for check-in for your return flight. We ask you to be ready at least two hours before boarding time, thus guaranteeing a punctual transfer. We appreciate that you traveled with us and we hope to welcome you again to live more unforgettable experiences with the Viagens Machu Picchu packages. Important information: If your flight from Cusco to Lima is scheduled for the afternoon, you can take advantage of the morning to visit some of the city's museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Don't worry about the tickets: they are all included in your Comprehensive Tourist Ticket. In addition, if you want to make better use of your time, it is possible to take half-day tours in private service, ideal for exploring more of Cusco in a personalized and comfortable way. Important observation: At hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, check-in time is 1:00 p.m. and check-out time is 10:00 a.m. If you are interested in applying: ♦ Early check-in (early entry to the hotel). ♦ Late check-out (departure outside standard hours). These options are subject to hotel availability and may incur an additional cost. To confirm this and other information, it is recommended to consult with your advisor.
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