Andean Peru Tour, 15 Days Through Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines, Colca Canyon, Cusco & The Sacred Valley

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Travel Style Small Group Tours designed for an exclusive experience. Maximum of 16 travelers per group, with an average of 10 participants.

Small Group

Physical Rating

Average

Age Requirement

8+ Under age 18 must be with an adult
OVERVIEW

Fall under Peru’s spell on this in-depth 15-day Peru tour that links the country’s desert coast, its Inca heartland and the high Andes into one seamless journey. From the Huacachina Oasis in Ica to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, from the enigmatic Nazca Lines to the ancient terraces and hot springs of Colca Canyon, this Peru itinerary is built for travelers who want depth, not a checklist.

Over fifteen days you will explore the UNESCO-listed city of Cusco and its imperial landmarks, walk the Sacred Valley of the Incas through Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and reach Machu Picchu by train for a guided tour of the wonder of the world. You will trek to the turquoise water of Humantay Lake, climb the vivid slopes of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), cross the Altiplano on the scenic Route of the Sun and meet the living communities of Lake Titicaca on the Uros and Taquile islands. The journey closes in Arequipa, the White City, with the Santa Catalina Monastery and the soaring condors of the Colca Canyon.

Designed as a small-group Peru tour with local guides, comfortable hotels and round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu included, this is the complete Andean experience – culture, adventure, trekking and nature in a single trip. Return home with unforgettable memories of the landscapes and people of Peru.

Day 1
 
Lima City Tour
Arrival in Lima, airport transfer and afternoon tour of Huaca Pucllana and Miraflores.
Day 2
 
Paracas Ica
Ballestas Islands wildlife, Huacachina Oasis, dune buggies and sandboarding.
Day 3
 
Nazca Lines
Aerial overflight of the ancient Nazca Lines geoglyphs and return to Lima.
Day 4
 
Cusco City Tour
Flight to Cusco and afternoon tour of Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman and nearby Inca sites.
Day 5
 
Sacred Valley
Full-day Sacred Valley tour through Pisac and Ollantaytambo, overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 6
 
Machu Picchu
Guided tour of Machu Picchu, the Inca wonder of the world, and return to Cusco.
Day 7
 
Humantay Lake
High-altitude trek of about two hours to the turquoise Humantay Lake.
Day 8
 
Maras Moray
Visit the Moray Inca terraces and the Maras salt mines of the Sacred Valley.
Day 9
 
Rainbow Mountain
Trek to Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain, at 5,036 meters above sea level.
Day 10
 
Cusco Puno
Scenic Route of the Sun across the Altiplano with archaeological stops.
Day 11
 
Lake Titicaca
Boat tour to the Uros floating islands and Taquile on Lake Titicaca.
Day 12
 
Arequipa City Tour
Tour of the White City and the Santa Catalina Monastery.
Day 13
 
Colca Canyon
Highland journey to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Day 14
 
Cruz del Condor
Andean condor sighting at Cruz del Condor and return to Arequipa.
Day 15
 
Farewell
Final transfer to Arequipa airport for your departure flight.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1
Lima City Tour – Arrival in Peru
Welcome to Peru! Your adventure begins in Lima
Lima city tour, arrival day of the 15-day Andean Peru tour

Welcome to Peru. Your Andean adventure begins in Lima, the colourful capital known as the City of Kings. You will be collected from the airport and taken to your hotel, with the morning free to settle in and acclimatize before the Lima city tour formally begins at 2:00 PM with pickup from your hotel.

The first stop on this journey through time is Huaca Pucllana, an impressive adobe ceremonial and archaeological center built in the 4th century A.D. Afterward we head to the Historic Center of Lima, where you will visit the Museum of the Central Reserve Bank to admire the exclusive Treasures of Peru collection of pre-Columbian ceramics, gold artifacts and fine textiles.

Finally we explore modern Lima, visiting the iconic neighbourhoods of El Olivar in San Isidro, Miraflores and Larcomar, ending with a spectacular Pacific Ocean view at the Parque del Amor. The tour concludes around 6:30 PM with a return to your hotel.

🌙 Overnight in Lima. 🍽 Included meals: None.
Day 2
Ballestas Islands & Huacachina Oasis – Paracas to Ica
Full-day Paracas wildlife tour and desert sandboarding
Huacachina Oasis and desert dunes near Ica, Peru tour day 2

Leave Lima at approximately 4:00 a.m. and travel down the Peruvian coast to the Paracas Peninsula for an excursion to the Ballestas Islands. These islands are home to abundant marine wildlife, including pelicans, red-footed boobies, flamingos, sea lions and even Humboldt penguins, all seen up close on a guided boat tour.

Afterwards we travel to the city of Ica, where you will visit a traditional vineyard to learn about the artisanal production of Pisco, Peru’s signature spirit, with a tasting of selected varieties followed by a typical regional lunch.

In the afternoon we head to the spectacular Huacachina Oasis for an adrenaline-filled dune buggy ride and sandboarding across the desert dunes, ending with a breathtaking sunset over the sands. We then travel from Ica to Nazca for your overnight stay.

Important: As the day starts very early and ends in a different city, we recommend bringing a small backpack with overnight essentials.

🌙 Overnight in Nazca. 🍽 Included meals: Lunch.
Day 3
Nazca Lines Overflight
Soar over one of humanity’s greatest archaeological mysteries
Nazca Lines aerial overflight, ancient geoglyphs in the Peruvian desert

After breakfast at the hotel, day three begins with a private transfer to the Nazca airfield. Before takeoff, an expert pilot provides a detailed briefing on the flight path and the history of these ancient geoglyphs of the Nazca Desert.

Once airborne, you soar over the desert on an unforgettable flight to appreciate the scale of the iconic figures: the Hummingbird with its beak toward the horizon, the famous Monkey with its spiral tail and the enigmatic Spider, among many other Nazca Lines geoglyphs that can only be fully understood from the air.

After the flight you return to the hotel to coordinate your transfer back to Lima, closing this unforgettable expedition.

For this activity each traveler’s weight must be reported (95 kg / 209 lb maximum); excess weight may carry an additional fee. The overflight is subject to favourable weather conditions.

🌙 Overnight in Lima. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast.
Day 4
Cusco City Tour – Qoricancha & Sacsayhuaman
Imperial city landmarks of the Inca capital
Cusco city tour Inca archaeological sites, Andean Peru 15-day itinerary

This morning after breakfast you catch an early flight to Cusco. On arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport our team transfers you comfortably to your hotel, with the morning free to acclimatize to the altitude and rest.

From 1:30 p.m. the Cusco city tour begins through the most iconic landmarks of the imperial city. It starts at Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun and the most sacred religious centre of the Inca Empire, where Andean mysticism merges with colonial architecture and finely polished stone walls once covered in gold now form the foundation of the Convent of Santo Domingo.

The tour continues to the majestic fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the mysterious site of Q’enqo, the Red Fortress of Pukapukara and finally Tambomachay, known as the Inca’s Bath, where crystal-clear fountains still flow with the same precision as centuries ago.

The tour concludes around 6:30 p.m. back in the city centre, where you can enjoy Cusco’s vibrant nightlife and renowned gastronomy.

Cusco sits above 3,000 m. Please inform us of any respiratory or heart conditions; if altitude sickness appears, a free day exploring the historic streets at your own pace is recommended.

🌙 Overnight in Cusco. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast.
Day 5
Sacred Valley of the Incas & Train to Aguas Calientes
Pisac, Ollantaytambo and the train to Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley of the Incas tour, Ollantaytambo fortress, Peru

The day begins early at approximately 7:30 a.m. with pickup from your hotel. Your first stop is the Pisac Archaeological Complex, where you admire impressive ancient agricultural terraces and finely crafted Inca structures overlooking the Sacred Valley, with breathtaking views and a timeless connection to the past.

Around midday the journey continues to Urubamba for a comforting buffet lunch of traditional regional dishes. Later you visit the iconic fortress of Ollantaytambo, a monumental military and religious complex renowned for its original Inca urban design, still preserved today.

At the end of the afternoon you are transferred to Ollantaytambo train station to board your selected train service to Aguas Calientes. On arrival, your guide provides a detailed briefing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

The train journey is in tourist class. To upgrade to the Vistadome panoramic or Observatory service, please ask your travel agent; all services are subject to availability.

🌙 Overnight in Aguas Calientes. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 6
Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Full Day
The Inca wonder of the world awaits
Machu Picchu guided tour, Inca citadel, Peru 15-day tour

After breakfast at the hotel you begin the most anticipated day of your Peru tour. A short bus climbs the winding road to Machu Picchu, where a professional guide leads you through the Inca citadel, sharing stories of its history and the ancestral people of the region.

The true purpose of Machu Picchu may always remain a mystery, since no written records of the complex exist. Most archaeologists believe it to be the 15th-century estate of Emperor Pachacuti. Your guide can advise how to make the most of your visit to this wonder of the world.

Later you take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved lunch before returning by train to Ollantaytambo, where our team transfers you safely to your hotel in Cusco.

The Machu Picchu visit depends on the circuit type and ticket availability. For high season (April to September) we recommend booking at least 5 months in advance.

🌙 Overnight in Cusco. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 7
Humantay Lake Trek
Trekking to a turquoise Andean glacial lake
Humantay Lake trek, turquoise glacial lake near Cusco, Peru

Our day begins at approximately 4:30 a.m. with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We set off on a two-hour journey northwest through the stunning landscapes of the Apurimac River Valley until we reach the picturesque town of Mollepata for a nutritious breakfast.

After a short drive to Soraypampa, we begin the uphill hike – approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes surrounded by panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Upon reaching our destination, you will be amazed by Humantay Lake, whose beauty lies in the mystical contrast between its turquoise waters and the imposing glacier that crowns it.

You will have ample time to explore, take photographs and connect with nature before descending back to Mollepata for a traditional celebratory lunch. We return to Cusco at approximately 6:00 p.m.

Not suitable for people with hypertension, respiratory illnesses, or heart conditions. Travelers may request a change to a lighter activity with at least 24 hours’ advance notice.

🌙 Overnight in Cusco. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 8
Maras Salt Mines & Moray Terraces Tour
Hidden treasures of the Sacred Valley
Maras salt mines and Moray Inca terraces, Sacred Valley Peru tour

After breakfast at your hotel, at approximately 7:30 a.m. we begin a journey filled with history and breathtaking landscapes. Our first stop is the impressive Moray Archaeological Centre, a remarkable site made up of circular agricultural terraces shaped like a gigantic amphitheatre, world-renowned as the Inca Laboratory.

We then head to the famous Maras Salt Mines, a truly unique visual spectacle composed of approximately 3,000 salt pools. Here you observe the traditional drying and extraction process unchanged since ancient times, a living example of local engineering and tradition.

After completing these visits, we return to Cusco arriving at around 1:00 p.m. You will have a free afternoon ideal for resting, shopping for handicrafts, or getting lost in the charm of Cusco’s streets at your own pace.

An optional ATV quad-bike tour of Maras and Moray is available at extra cost (not recommended for pregnant travelers, children under 5, seniors or people with back conditions). Ask your travel agent for a quote.

🌙 Overnight in Cusco. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast.
Day 9
Rainbow Mountain Trek – Vinicunca
The Mountain of Colors at 5,036 m above sea level
Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca trek, Mountain of Colors near Cusco Peru

This iconic tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:30 a.m. We start a two-hour drive to a picturesque high-Andean town, where we enjoy a nutritious breakfast designed to provide the energy needed before the ascent.

Afterwards, we begin a hike of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes along an incredible route that passes through high Andean villages, allowing us to observe beautiful herds of alpacas and llamas in their natural habitat.

Upon reaching the summit at 5,036 meters above sea level, you will admire the impressive geological formation of Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain, and the magical landscape surrounded by mountains and glaciers – the perfect setting for unforgettable photographs. After the descent, we share a traditional lunch before returning to the city.

Not suitable for people with hypertension, respiratory illnesses or heart conditions. Acclimatizing well in Cusco beforehand is key. An optional horse-and-handler service is available at extra cost.

🌙 Overnight in Cusco. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 10
Route of the Sun – Cusco to Puno
Scenic Altiplano journey with ancient treasures
Route of the Sun scenic journey Cusco to Puno, Raqchi temple Peru

This fascinating journey begins at 6:20 a.m., boarding our transport bound for Puno. Along the way we make strategic stops, beginning with the Andahuaylillas Sistine Chapel, a 17th-century gem renowned worldwide for its impressive murals, gold-leaf detail and refined Cusco-school art.

We then continue to the majestic Raqchi complex, a ceremonial centre dedicated to the Inca god Wiracocha, remarkable for its colcas (storehouses) and monumental stone and adobe structures. A buffet lunch offers a wide variety of national and regional cuisine with desserts and hot drinks.

The route continues to La Raya Pass at 4,338 meters above sea level, where the snow-capped Chimboya mountain provides a perfect photo backdrop. Before arriving in Puno we visit the Pucara Lithic Museum, reaching Puno at approximately 5:30 p.m.

Bring a warm layer, as some stops sit above 4,000 m and you arrive in Puno near nightfall. Luggage travels securely in the vehicle’s hold.

🌙 Overnight in Puno. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 11
Lake Titicaca – Uros & Taquile Islands
Myths and living traditions on the highest navigable lake
Lake Titicaca Uros floating islands boat tour, Puno Peru

This unforgettable experience begins at 7:00 a.m. with a transfer to the port of Puno, where we embark on a journey across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Our first stop is the legendary Uros Floating Islands, an artificial archipelago made entirely of totora reeds, where local families share their ancestral construction techniques and unique way of life.

Continuing the journey, we head to Taquile Island, internationally renowned for its exceptional textile art, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. After a walk along its cobblestone paths with panoramic views, we enjoy a traditional lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Finally, we return to the port of Puno for transfer to your hotel or, according to your itinerary, to the bus terminal for your onward journey to Arequipa.

Lake Titicaca sits above 3,800 m, so sunscreen is recommended. Bring cash for souvenir purchases in the local communities along the way.

🌙 Overnight in Puno / Transfer to Arequipa. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 12
Arequipa City Tour – The White City
Colonial history and the Santa Catalina Monastery
Arequipa city tour, White City sillar architecture and volcanoes Peru

Our experience begins at 7:00 a.m. upon your arrival in Arequipa, where our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After coordinating the day’s activities, we begin our urban adventure at the Yanahuara Viewpoint, with spectacular panoramic views of the city and the imposing Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

Next, we explore the Carmen Alto Viewpoint, then the Plaza de Armas, where you will marvel at the monumental sillar architecture – the white volcanic stone that gives the city its characteristic shine and UNESCO World Heritage status.

We also visit the Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus and, as a highlight, the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a city within a city of vibrant walls and narrow streets that tell centuries of spirituality.

Arequipa, the White City, is famous for its rich gastronomy; visiting one of its traditional picanterias is highly recommended.

🌙 Overnight in Arequipa. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast.
Day 13
Colca Canyon Tour – Arequipa to Chivay
Nature, living culture and Andean hot springs
Colca Canyon tour, one of the deepest canyons in the world, Peru

Our adventure begins early with pickup at 7:30 a.m. after breakfast. Our first stop is the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a majestic setting where volcanoes, crystal-clear lagoons and snow-capped peaks create an unforgettable postcard of Andean geography.

Continuing our ascent, we arrive at the Tocra Wetlands, ideal for spotting camelids and exotic birds like Andean flamingos. The highlight is Pata Pampa, the Andes Viewpoint at 4,900 meters above sea level, where the purity of the air and the vastness of the mountain range unfold in all their splendor.

On the descent, we reach the town of Chivay for a traditional lunch. In the afternoon, optionally visit the Chacapi Hot Springs. We close the day with a dinner and folkloric show, pairing regional cuisine with traditional music and dances of the Colca Valley.

Pack an overnight bag for one night in Chivay; the rest of your luggage can be left free of charge in storage at your Arequipa hotel.

🌙 Overnight in Chivay / Colca. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 14
Cruz del Condor – Andean Condor Sighting
The majestic flight of the Andean condor
Cruz del Condor viewpoint, Andean condor flight over Colca Canyon Peru

We begin with an energizing breakfast before a journey full of discoveries. The first stop is the historic town of Yanque, where you will admire its legendary colonial church and the vibrant Wititi dance, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

From there, we head to the iconic Cruz del Condor viewpoint, the strategic spot to marvel at the impressive depth of the Colca Canyon and witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the most magnificent bird of the Andes. The journey continues to the Huayra Punko viewpoint with one of the most complete panoramic views of the entire Colca Valley.

We then visit the town of Maca for a tasting of the traditional Colca Sour, stop in Chivay for a delicious buffet lunch, and begin our return to Arequipa with a comfortable drop-off at your hotel.

🌙 Overnight in Arequipa. 🍽 Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
Day 15
Farewell – Departure from Arequipa
The end of your 15-day Andean Peru tour
Departure transfer Arequipa airport, end of the Andean Peru tour

Your Andean Peru adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. We coordinate the best time to collect you from your hotel and transfer you comfortably to Arequipa airport for your departure flight. It has been a joy to share this journey with you; we wish you a safe flight home and hope to welcome you back to Peru soon.

All hotels are subject to availability, and each manages its own check-in and check-out times, which should be considered in your stay.

🍽 Included meals: Breakfast.

Andean Peru

15 days / 14 nights

Reg. $2,609 USD 15% Off
$2,218 USD per person

Destinations Lima, Ica, Nazca, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno, Arequipa

Journey Style Cultural, Adventure, Sustainable, Trekking, Nature

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INCLUDES
What's Included
  • Domestic flights Lima-Cusco and Arequipa-Lima (baggage included)
  • 2 nights hotel in Lima (selected category)
  • 1 night hotel in Nazca (selected category)
  • 5 nights hotel in Cusco (selected category)
  • 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes (selected category)
  • 1 night hotel in Puno (selected category)
  • 2 nights hotel in Arequipa (selected category)
  • 1 night hotel in Colca (selected category)
  • Nazca Lines overflight and taxes
  • Round-trip tourist class train to Machu Picchu
  • Bus tickets from Cusco to Puno and from Puno to Arequipa
  • Private transportation between airports and hotels
  • Buffet breakfasts at the hotel and lunches on selected tours
  • Entrance fees and tickets for all indicated tours
  • Professional guide service at all sites visited
  • Tourist transportation for all tours
  • Souvenirs provided by the agency (social responsibility)
  • 24-hour monitoring and care for each traveler
What's Not Included
  • International flights (please consult your travel agent for a quote)
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Meals not included in the package
  • Services not included in the package
RECOMMENDATIONS

Important

  • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date
  • Prices do not apply for holidays — confirmation from your travel agent required
  • Prices subject to change based on suppliers, hotels, airlines and train companies
  • National flights included are subject to airline policies and modifications
  • Changes and modifications may apply penalties plus 10% administrative fee
  • Health and immigration requirements may change at any time
  • All policies are accepted at the time of purchase
  • Please respect hotel check-in and check-out times in each city

What to Pack

  • Insect repellent
  • Travel only with the essentials
  • Boots or footwear suitable for unpaved terrain
  • A small backpack or fanny pack
  • Extra cash for meals, shopping and tips
  • Leave space in your luggage for souvenirs
  • Sunscreen, cap and sunglasses

Optional Upgrades

  • Vistadome Observatory train: add USD 70.00 per person (subject to availability)
  • Vistadome executive train: add USD 55.00 per person (subject to availability)
  • Huayna Picchu visit: add USD 25.00 per person (limited tickets — please consult your agent)
Your Stay Options
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We can book any hotel for you, even if it is not on our list. Please just contact our travel experts for more information.

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