from $0.00
Inquiry

Treasures of Southern and Northern Peru

Not Rated
Duration

20 Days 19 Nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

18 people

Languages

English, Espanol

Embark on a 20-day grand tour of Peru, exploring its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Start in Lima with a city tour, then visit the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and the thrilling dunes of Huacachina. Experience the mysterious Nazca Lines and the colonial beauty of Arequipa, followed by the stunning Colca Canyon. In Puno, explore Lake Titicaca’s floating islands and journey to Cusco via the scenic Route of the Sun. Discover the ancient wonders of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, hike Rainbow Mountain, and delve into the ancient Moche civilization in Chiclayo and Trujillo. This extensive tour offers a deep dive into Peru’s vibrant history, spectacular ruins, and dynamic landscapes, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Prices per person

Single Double/Triple Child
Superior Tourist 3* USD $2,871.00 USD $2,092.00 USD $1889.00
Superior 4* USD $3,967.00 USD $2,658.00 USD $2,420.00

**Please note that the prices listed above are only applicable for 2024/2025.

Customize this itinerary by adding extra days or tours. Please contact one of our Travel Advisors for pricing. Private service available upon request.

See our Hotels

Highlights

  • Lima City Tour: Explore the capital's historic center, modern districts, and coastal charm, delving into its rich history and vibrant culture.
  • Paracas and the Ballestas Islands: Take a boat tour to see the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, known as the "Galápagos of Peru," famed for their abundant marine life and the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph.
  • Ica and Huacachina Buggy Tour: Experience the thrill of dune buggy rides and sandboarding in Huacachina, a stunning desert oasis surrounded by massive sand dunes.
  • Nazca Lines Overflight: Marvel at the Nazca Lines from above, viewing these ancient geoglyphs that have puzzled historians and archaeologists for decades.
  • Arequipa City Tour: Discover the "White City," noted for its baroque buildings made from sillar, a white volcanic stone, and visit its vibrant markets and impressive colonial architecture.
  • Colca Canyon 2-Day Tour: Journey through one of the world's deepest canyons, known for its breathtaking landscapes and sightings of the majestic Andean condors.
  • Puno, Uros, and Taquile Island Tour: Explore the unique floating reed islands of Uros and the culturally rich Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca, experiencing the traditional lifestyle of the local communities.
  • Route of the Sun from Puno to Cusco: Travel through the Andean highlands, stopping at key archaeological sites and enjoying the stunning landscapes along this historic route.
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas: Visit key Inca sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, exploring ancient terraces and vibrant markets in this lush valley.
  • Machu Picchu Visit: Tour the iconic "Lost City of the Incas," Machu Picchu, with its stunning ruins and panoramic mountain views, delving into its mysteries and architectural brilliance.
  • Cusco City Tour and Nearby Ruins: Explore Cusco's rich tapestry of Inca and colonial history, including a visit to Sacsayhuamán and other nearby ruins.
  • Rainbow Mountain Hike: Embark on a challenging hike to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain, celebrated for its colorful mineral layers and dramatic landscapes.
  • Flight to Chiclayo and Museum Visits: Fly to Chiclayo to visit the Brüning Museum and the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, which house extraordinary artifacts from the Moche civilization.
  • Pyramid of Tucume and Sipán: Explore the ancient adobe structures at the Pyramid of Tucume and visit the archaeological site of the Royal Tombs of Sipán to learn about the Moche leaders.
  • Trujillo, Temples of the Sun and Moon, Chan Chan, and Huanchaco: Discover Trujillo’s archaeological wonders including the Temples of the Sun and Moon, the vast pre-Columbian adobe city of Chan Chan, and the traditional fishing village of Huanchaco, known for its totora reed boats.
  • This extensive itinerary offers a deep dive into Peru's diverse landscapes, rich history, and fascinating cultural heritage, providing travelers with a comprehensive experience of this incredible country.

Day 1: Welcome to Lima!
Day 1: Welcome to Lima!

Upon landing in Lima, a warm welcome awaits you. Our representative will guide you from the airport to your hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your Peru adventure. Take this time to unwind and acclimate to the vibrant energy of the city.  

Day 2: Lima Sightseeing Tour - Tourist Bus to Paracas
Day 2: Lima Sightseeing Tour - Tourist Bus to Paracas

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.

 

Day 3: Paracas: Excursion to Ballestas Island - Bus Paracas/Ica - Huacachina Buggy and Sandboarding Tour - Bus Ica/Nazca
Day 3: Paracas: Excursion to Ballestas Island - Bus Paracas/Ica - Huacachina Buggy and Sandboarding Tour - Bus Ica/Nazca

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.

 

Day 4: Nazca: Overflight of the Nazca Lines - Bus to Arequipa
Day 4: Nazca: Overflight of the Nazca Lines - Bus to Arequipa

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.

Day 5: Arrival in Arequipa: Sightseeing Tour & Santa Catalina Convent
Day 5: Arrival in Arequipa: Sightseeing Tour & Santa Catalina Convent

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.

 

Day 6: Excursion to Colca Canyon - Overnight in Chivay
Day 6: Excursion to Colca Canyon - Overnight in Chivay

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 

Day 7: Cruz del Condor - Bus to Puno
Day 7: Cruz del Condor - Bus to Puno

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. 

Day 8: Excursion to the Titicaca Lake: Uros and Taquile Island
Day 8: Excursion to the Titicaca Lake: Uros and Taquile Island

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. 

Day 9: Tourist Bus to Cusco: The Route of the Sun
Day 9: Tourist Bus to Cusco: The Route of the Sun

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. 

Day 10: Excursion to The Sacred Valley of the Incas - Train to Aguas Calientes
Day 10: Excursion to The Sacred Valley of the Incas - Train to Aguas Calientes

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.

In the afternoon, transfer to the train station for a journey to the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, also known as "The Lost City of the Incas". Arrive at Aguas Calientes station and transfer to your selected Hotel.

 

Day 11: Machu Picchu "The Lost City of the Incas" -Train back to Cusco
Day 11: Machu Picchu "The Lost City of the Incas" -Train back to Cusco

The day starts with an early morning transfer to the bus station for a 30 minute journey, ascending a zigzag path, to the incredible Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will embark on a guided tour of the ancient citadel. Highlights include the Main Square, the enigmatic Circular Tower, the sacred Intihuatana (Sun Dial), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the intricate cemeteries. Lunch in a restaurant at Aguas Calientes town.

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

 

Day 12: Cusco Sightseeing Tour with 4 Inca Ruins
Day 12: Cusco Sightseeing Tour with 4 Inca Ruins

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.

 

Day 13: Hike the Rainbow Mountain
Day 13: Hike the Rainbow Mountain

4:00am. Embark on our full day Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco. We will travel by tourist bus around two hours to the south until arriving to the village of Cusipata, where we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast.

After the breakfast we will travel by car 1 hour to the trailhead, known as Phulawasipata, where we will start the trek. The trek will last approximately 1.5 hours to 2 hours to Vinicunca Pass, the classic viewpoint for Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, we will appreciate the typical landscape and flora and fauna of the Andes, among which Llamas and Alpacas stand out.

Then we will return by the same route to the point where we started the trek (Phulawasipata), where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusipata; here we will enjoy the buffet lunch. After lunch we will start heading to back to Cusco for overnight. 

Day 14: Flight Cusco/Chiclayo

Early in the morning, after breakfast, transfer to the airport to departure to Chiclayo.

Arrival in Chiclayo and transfer to your selected hotel.

Day 15: Chiclayo: Museum Bruning and Sipan
Day 15: Chiclayo: Museum Bruning and Sipan

We will pick you up at the hotel and head north to Lambayeque. In this popular area for its archaeological sites, we will visit the Brüning museum, which houses more than 1,400 archaeological pieces from the civilizations of northern Peru.

Before entering we will admire the famous sculpture of Naylamp, founder of the Lambayecan kings dynasty. During the tour of the museum, we will see archaeological remains of the Lambayeque, Mochica, Chavín, Vicús and Incas cultures. The exhibition is a compilation of the findings of the excavations of the German archaeologist Hans Brüning.

Among the main attractions of the museum include the treasures of the Lord of Sipán, leader of the Mochicas, one of the most important cultures of pre-Columbian America. In addition, we will see closely the famous funerary mask of chimú gold and representations of the customs of the Lambayecan shamans.

After the visit to the Brüning Archaeological Museum, we will return to Chiclayo. The tour ends back at the hotel.

Day 16: Chiclayo: Visit to the Pyramids of Tucume
Day 16: Chiclayo: Visit to the Pyramids of Tucume

Located in the lower part of the La Leche river valley in Lambayeque. It is located 33 Kms northeast of Chiclayo. It is considered the most extensive of the sites in the area and was the great capital of the kingdom of Lambayeque in pre-Hispanic times (before the arrival of the Spanish).

There are 26 pyramids that make up the archaeological complex. The largest is 450 m long, 100 m wide and 40 m high and is formed by platforms.

According to the legend, Túcume was founded by Cala grandson of Naylamp (Ave del mar). By the year 1375 AD It is conquered by Chimú and later by the Incas in 1470.

The archaeological place has two zones: The northern zone characterized by a large architecture and the southern area with simpler monuments, popular cemeteries, residential areas and metallurgical and ceramic production.

The pyramids were built with incredible adobe walls. Which had the manufacturer's mark on its surface. Up to seven construction phases have been identified, one on top of the other. The main areas were decorated with mud and painted reliefs. Most of his motives are related to the sea.

The most important pyramids are Huaca 1, La Huaca Larga and the Temple of the Sacred Stone.

Day 17: Visit to the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum - Bus to Trujillo
Day 17: Visit to the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum - Bus to Trujillo

Visit to The Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum (Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán) is a museum in Lambayeque, Peru. The museum was inaugurated in 2002. This museum specifically focuses on the tomb of the Lord of Sipán found in Sipán in 1987. The collection including ceremonial vessels, necklaces and jewelry.

In the afternoon transfer to the bus station to departure to Trujillo. Arrival in Trujillo and transfer to your selected hotel.

Day 18: Temples of the Sun and the Moon

After breakfast. Excursion 15 minutes south of Trujillo to visit the enormous adobe constructions built by the Mochica culture in the 5th century, called Temple of the Sun, considered the largest adobe pyramid in Peru, and the Temple of the Moon, housing an extensive burial ground and some fine polychrome murals in which their deity is often printed. Is believed that both were complementary, one administrative and the other religious.

In the afternoon, We will continue our tours through the Valley of Chicama, Archaeological Complex El Brujo visit the hacienda house of the Larco family, then go to the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, Huaca Cao Viejo, place of archaeological excavations that have unveiled large murals of the Moche Culture 1st to 6th century AD and where the discovery of the Lady of Cao, Huaca Partida and Huaca Prieta took place.

After our tour we will return to the Hotel.

Day 19: Chan Chan - Huanchaco - Flight to Lima
Day 19: Chan Chan - Huanchaco - Flight to Lima

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of ancient civilization and vibrant coastal culture on a tour that encompasses the Chan Chan Site Museum, Tshudi Palace, and the picturesque fishing village of Huanchaco.

Chan Chan Site Museum and Tshudi Palace: Start your exploration at the Chan Chan Site Museum, which provides a comprehensive introduction to the world's largest adobe city, once the capital of the Chimu Kingdom. The museum displays artifacts, models, and detailed explanations of the architectural and cultural practices of the Chimu people. Continue to Tshudi Palace, one of the best-preserved sections of the Chan Chan archaeological complex. Here, you can walk through the ceremonial courtyards, administrative areas, and storerooms, gaining insight into the daily and ritualistic lives of those who once thrived in this pre-Columbian metropolis.

Huanchaco: Next, travel to Huanchaco, a charming seaside town that retains much of its traditional fishing culture. Known for its "Caballitos de Totora," unique reed watercrafts that date back to the Chimu and even earlier Moche civilizations, Huanchaco is an ideal spot to observe local fishermen ply their ancient craft. Stroll along the beach, enjoy the serene ocean views, and perhaps indulge in some of the fresh seafood that makes this town a culinary highlight.

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport to departure to Lima.

Arrival in Lima and transfer to your selected hotel.

Day 20: International Departure
Day 20: International Departure

Early in the morning, transfer to airport for your international flight home. 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.  

  • In Lima: Sightseeing Tour
  • In Paracas/Ica: Excursion to the Ballestas Islands in Paracas. Huacachina, dunes & buggy.
  • In Nazca: Overflight of the Nazca lines.
  • In Arequipa: Sightseeing Tour
  • In Colca: All included (excursions and meals) and bus 4M.
  • In Puno: Boating excursion on Titicaca Lake, lunch in Taquile and bus Wonder Puno/Cusco.
  • In Cusco: Sightseeing Tour and nearby ruins + Rainbow Mountain.
  • In the Sacred Valley of the Incas: Excursion to Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Lunch included.
  • In Machupicchu: Guided visit of the Citadel including lunch and overnight.
  • In Chiclayo: Museum Bruning, Museum Sipan, Pyramids of Tucume
  • In Trujillo: Temple of the Sun and the moon + La Senora de Cao, Chan Chan + Huanchaco.
  • 19 Nights’ accommodation
  • Domestic Flights Cusco/Lima, Lima/Chiclayo, and Trujillo/Lima
  • All breakfasts and meals as described in the program
  • All entrance tickets applicable
  • All the transfers indicated in the itinerary.
  • Bus tickets to Paracas/Nazca/Arequipa
  • Train ticket from Cusco- Aguas Calientes- Cusco
  • Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes- Machupicchu- Aguas Calientes
  • All applicable taxes
  • All bilingual guided tours(English/Spanish) Group service.
  • International flights
  • Baggage excess.
  • Alcoholic drinks, soda or bottled mineral water
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • International or National personal telephone calls
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Second Entrance to Machu Picchu

English
Espanol

Tour's Location

Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?

Visa requirements for Peru depend on your nationality. Many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European nations, do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 183 days. Please check with the nearest Peruvian consulate or embassy for the most current visa information.

How should I prepare for altitude changes during the tour?

Acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, eat light meals, and consider spending a day or two in higher altitude locations like Cusco before heading to higher elevations. Consult with a doctor about altitude sickness medication if necessary.

What are the physical requirements for this tour?

Travelers should be in good health and comfortable walking on uneven terrain, especially for archaeological sites and nature walks. The tour includes various altitudes and climates, so physical readiness is important.

What should I pack for the tour?

Pack comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, as weather can change quickly, especially in the Andes. Include layers, rain gear, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, a daypack, and any personal medication. Don't forget your camera and chargers.

from $0.00

Inquiry

Information Contact

Email

info@inkawasitravel.com

Phone

(305) 600-2592

You might also like