South Peru Circuit I

Dive into Lima's rich history as our tour unfolds through the city's three pivotal eras: Pre-hispanic, Colonial, and Modern. Begin with a panoramic sweep of “La Huaca Pucllana,” a testament to Lima's ancient civilizations. The journey continues to the heart of Lima's Historical Downtown, where you'll be mesmerized by its grand palaces, mansions, churches, and squares, each a narrative of the city's colonial past. As we venture into the residential elegance of San Isidro, the tour gradually transitions into the modern vibrancy of Lima. Culminate your experience with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean from Miraflores, capturing the essence of Lima's contemporary charm. This experience is enriched with exclusive admissions to the BCR Museum, offering a treasure trove of Peruvian heritage, and the Complejo Monumental San Francisco, renowned for its historic catacombs. Please note, the BCR Museum welcomes visitors during specific times and is closed on Saturdays and Sundays afternoon, and all day on Mondays. 

After our sightseeing in Lima, private transfer to the bus station to departure to Paracas. (3 Hours)

Upon arrival in the stunning coastal town of Paracas, another private transfer to your chosen hotel.

Embark on a morning boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, located within the Paracas National Reserve. This journey offers a chance to witness an array of wildlife, including sea lions, bobo birds, pelicans, penguins, and various marine birds in their natural habitat. During the return trip, marvel at the "Candelabro," a mysterious geoglyph etched into a hillside, reminiscent of the Nazca Lines

Following the island tour, you'll be transferred to the bus station for your next destination, Ica. Upon arrival in Ica, you'll have a brief stop at the office to leave your luggage, and then it's off to explore the enchanting oasis of Huacachina. This desert haven sets the scene for an exhilarating afternoon of dune buggy rides and sandboarding, offering both adventure and stunning landscapes.

The day's journey concludes with a transfer to the bus station, where you'll catch the bus to Nazca. (2 Hours)

Arrival in Nazca, and transfer to your chosen hotel.

Early in the morning, after breakfast, transfer to Nazca airport for a 45-minute overflight of the enigmatic Nazca Lines. During this 45-minute flight, you'll have the unique opportunity to view the astonishing geoglyphs, including figures of monkeys, spiders, and hummingbirds, etched into the desert landscape, offering a bird's-eye glimpse into an ancient mystery.

At night, transfer to the bus station to departure to Arequipa. (8 Hours) Overnight in bus.

Assistance on arrival in Arequipa and transfer to your selected hotel. Free time to take a short rest to be acclimatized to the altitude.

In the Afternoon, discover the enchanting 'White City' of Arequipa and the serene Santa Catalina Convent on this immersive city tour. Begin your journey through Arequipa's historic center, where colonial churches, plazas, and buildings made from white sillar stone create a stunning urban landscape against the backdrop of Misti Volcano. Stroll through the vibrant streets, soaking in the city's lively atmosphere and colonial heritage.

The highlight of the tour is the Santa Catalina Convent, a sprawling religious complex that's more like a city within a city. With its vividly painted walls, charming streets, and tranquil courtyards, the convent offers a glimpse into the secluded lives of the nuns who have inhabited it since the 16th century. Explore the peaceful cloisters, picturesque gardens, and richly decorated chapels, and discover the unique blend of Spanish and indigenous architectural styles. After our tour, return to hotel. Free night.

Early in the morning, after breakfast, embark on a Journey to the Colca Canyon, visiting on the way Pampas Cañahuas, the Mirador of the Andes, the crater of Chucura, the Mirador of Chivay, where pre-inca andens may be appreciated. Arrival to the town of Chivay at 13:00hrs. approx. Transfer to your selected Hotel. Box lunch Included (light meals in the altitude). In the afternoon free time to visit thermal and medical baths . 20.00 Dinner

After an early breakfast, journey to Condor's Cross, a prime viewpoint to witness the grandeur of Colca Canyon and the awe-inspiring flight of the Andean condors. Marvel at these majestic birds soaring against the backdrop of one of the world's deepest canyons. Following this breathtaking experience and lunch, embark on an afternoon trip to Puno via tourist bus. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your selected hotel in Puno, a city known for its proximity to the mystical Lake Titicaca and rich cultural heritage. This day combines natural wonders with a smooth transition to your next Andean adventure. 

Early in the morning after breakfast, take a full day motor boat excursion on the Titicaca Lake waters towards the unique Floating Islands of the Uros, ancient inhabitants of the lake, known as the Water Tribe. This Andean natives built their own islands by adding periodically new layers of a unique plant called totora (a type of reed), as well as their homes and boats. Next continue your motor boat trip to the Taquile Island, inhabited by quechua-speaking natives who have developed an efficient and original social systems and a fine hand weaving technique through generations. After lunch at a local posada of Taquile, take a walk through the several hills and archaeological sites of this 6km long island. Early afternoon return to Puno for overnight at selected hotel.

Embark on the "Route of the Sun" from Puno to Cusco, a journey that takes you through the stunning Andean landscape and rich cultural heritage of Peru. This full-day bus tour includes five key stops at historical and cultural sites:

1. Pukara: Your first stop is at the Pukara Museum, where you can explore the artifacts and history of the pre-Inca civilization and see the famous Pukara bulls.

2. La Raya Pass: At the journey’s highest point, enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes, capturing the natural beauty of the region.

3. Sicuani: Stop for a lunch break in Sicuani, offering a moment to relax and savor local cuisine in a charming Andean town.

4. Raqchi: Visit the impressive Temple of Wiracocha, an archaeological site that showcases the architectural brilliance of the Inca Empire.

5. Andahuaylillas: Conclude the tour stops with a visit to the Church of San Pedro in Andahuaylillas, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Americas" for its exquisite interior artwork.

The journey concludes in Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, setting the stage for your next adventure. Throughout the trip, enjoy guided explanations and comfortable onboard amenities, making your travel both informative and pleasant. 

In the morning, Historical guided city tour of Cusco visiting the Main Square, the Cathedral and the Temple of the Sun.

After, we'll leave the city to visit the Inca sites of Qenqo, Tambomachay, Puca Pucara, and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman.

Qenqo: An archaeological site featuring intriguing carved rock formations and underground channels, believed to have been used by the Incas for ceremonial and religious purposes.

Tambomachay: Known as the "Inca Baths," Tambomachay boasts water fountains used for rituals and purification. Its architecture and hydraulic engineering are remarkable.

Puca Pucara: An ancient military fortress guarding the access to Cusco, named for its red stones.

Sacsayhuaman: An awe-inspiring fortress with enormous, precisely carved stones forming its walls. It offers panoramic views of Cusco.

Return to the city of Cusco.

Excursion to the "Sacred Valley of the Incas", a succession of picturesque towns, agricultural terraces and archaeological sites. We´ll have the opportunity to bargain with vendors and stroll at the Pisac's typical Indian market, with a catholic mass service on Sunday (celebrated in Quechua, the native language).
Lunch at a local restaurant in the Sacred Valley.

In the afternoon pass through Calca and Urubamba towns to arrive to the Inca Fortress and Citadel of Ollantaytambo, which was built to guard the entry of this part of the valley and protect it from enemies of the lower jungles; consisting in a series of superimposed terraces of carved stones accessed by long staircases. We will have the opportunity to walk through the quaint streets of the nearby town, religious and agricultural centre during the Inca Empire, and get a clear idea of the military strategy against possible invasions.
On our way back to Cusco we will visit the picturesque Andean village of Chinchero where the remains of what was the royal hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui lies. Admire its well preserved Inca Wall at the Main Square, visit the beautiful colonial temple built on Inca foundations, with interesting frescoes on the portico.
Back to Cusco in the afternoon.

Experience the cultural and historical richness of the Cusco region with a visit to Maras and Moray. This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the Incan past and the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

Maras Salt Mines: Begin your journey with a visit to the Maras Salt Mines, an extraordinary landscape of terraced salt pans that have been in use since pre-Inca times. Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, these salt pools create a stunning mosaic of white against the green mountain backdrop. Learn about the traditional methods still used to harvest salt and the importance of this resource in the local economy

Moray Archaeological Site: Next, travel to Moray, an intriguing archaeological site featuring a series of terraced circular depressions. Believed to have been an agricultural laboratory used by the Incas, Moray's unique design creates a variety of microclimates, allowing for experimentation with different crops. The site offers not only historical insights but also panoramic views of the surrounding Andean landscape.

Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by an expert guide who will provide in-depth commentary on the history, culture, and natural features of the area. This day trip from Cusco is a journey through time and nature, revealing the ingenious practices of the ancient Incas and the enduring beauty of the Andes. Return to Cusco.

The day starts with an early morning rise to transfer to Cusco train station for a three hour train journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, also known as "The Lost City of the Incas". Arrive at Aguas Calientes station followed by a 30-minute bus drive, climbing 6km of winding road, to the incredible Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we´ll participate in a guided tour of the Citadel, visiting the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred (Intiwatana), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and various burial grounds. Lunch in a restaurant at Aguas Calientes town. 

Overnight in Aguas Calientes town. 

Excellent opportunity to wake up early and enjoy a beautiful sunrise as well as stroll around the Town of Aguas Calientes and visit its Hot Spring Thermal waters. Then, you will have time to perform some of the following activities: (not included in the overall price):

1. Visit the Citadel of Machupicchu for a second time.
2. For active or more adventurous people, we suggest climbing up the Huayna Picchu (depending on weather conditions) from where you can appreciate the immensity of Machupicchu, even more amazing being high and distant. Arriving at the top takes about two hours and a half and it is recommendable before 13:00 hours. It is necessary to register at the checking point at the beginning of the trail. An exciting adventure for the travelers who want to see from the top, the nature and the carved stone emerging from the ground as if a geological miracle. (Reserve with time, limited tickets)

In the afternoon, back to Cusco by train, and transfer to your selected hotel for overnight. Evening free.

Early in the morning, transfer to airport to take a flight to Lima. This marks the conclusion of our travel services, wrapping up an unforgettable journey through the heart of Peru and the majestic splendors of Machu Picchu.