8 Days Peru All The Senses: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu & Titicaca Lake

Peru’s "8 Days All The Senses" tour promises an immersive journey through the country’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Lima to the historic charm of Cusco and the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, this adventure offers a unique opportunity to engage with the Andean way of life. Travelers will savor local cuisine, witness incredible archaeological sites, and explore the stunning Lake Titicaca, discovering the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island’s rich traditions. With a carefully curated itinerary, this tour is designed to create unforgettable memories and leave you yearning to uncover more of Peru’s wonders.

Good To Know

Immersive 8-day tour exploring Peru’s cultural highlights, including Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca.
Discover pre-Inca ruins, colonial architecture, and vibrant local markets in Lima and Cusco.
Experience the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with optional second visit for deeper exploration.
Cruise Lake Titicaca, visiting the Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island to learn about traditional way of life.
Overland journey showcases Andean landscapes and cultural sites beyond major tourist hubs.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Arrival in Lima

Visitors arrive at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport, where they’re met by a local representative who escorts them to their hotel.

The drive into the city provides a glimpse of Lima’s bustling streets, colonial architecture, and lively neighborhoods.

After check-in, travelers have the afternoon to explore the sights of the capital city. They visit Love Park, admiring its iconic "El Beso" (The Kiss) sculpture overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Next, they tour the pre-Inca ruins of Huaca Pucllana, followed by a stroll through Lima’s historic Main Square, taking in the colonial-era Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Convent.

This introduces travelers to the blend of ancient and modern that defines Peru’s largest city.

Exploring Cusco’s Highlights

After their time in Lima, travelers embark on a flight to the historic city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

Upon arrival, they transfer to their hotel and begin a comprehensive city tour. The tour highlights the city’s most significant landmarks, including the San Cristobal Plaza, the vibrant San Pedro Market, the Korikancha temple, the Santo Domingo Church, and the charming San Blas neighborhood.

Travelers gain a deeper understanding of Cusco’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring influence of the Inca civilization. The day concludes with ample free time to further explore the city at their own pace.

Fortress, Shrines, and Viewpoints

Departing Cusco, travelers journey into the surrounding countryside to explore a collection of remarkable Inca sites.

First, they visit the formidable Sacsayhuaman fortress, with its massive stone walls and strategic hilltop location overlooking the city.

Next, they discover the mysterious Qenqo shrine, known for its intricate carvings and subterranean passages.

Finally, they reach the Puca Pucara viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the Andes.

These archaeological wonders provide a glimpse into the engineering prowess and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization.

With ample time for exploration, visitors can fully enjoy Cusco’s rich cultural heritage.

Train to Machu Picchu

From Cusco, travelers make their way to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

They’ll board a train that winds through the Sacred Valley, offering stunning views of the Andes mountains. The train ride takes about 3.5 hours, with the option to stop in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

From there, a bus transports visitors up the winding road to the entrance of the ancient Incan citadel. This seamless transportation ensures a hassle-free journey, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu upon arrival.

A Second Visit Option

For those interested in exploring Machu Picchu in greater depth, the itinerary includes an optional second visit to the site. This provides an opportunity to:

Climb Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate, for a breathtaking panoramic view of the ancient Inca citadel.
Hike to Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain that overlooks Machu Picchu, subject to limited availability.
Spend more time wandering the ruins, immersing oneself in the history and taking in the sheer scale and grandeur of this iconic wonder of the world.

However, this optional second visit is dependent on ticket availability and should be booked well in advance.

Overland to Puno

After their exploration of Cusco, the tour participants journey overland to the lakeside city of Puno.

The bus transfer includes stops at several cultural highlights along the way. They’ll visit the charming Andahuaylillas chapel, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" for its ornate interior.

The tour then continues to the Inca site of Racchi and the scenic La Raya viewpoint, before ending at the Pucara Museum to learn about the pre-Inca Pucara culture.

This overland journey provides an opportunity to immerse in the stunning Andean landscapes and discover fascinating sites beyond the main tourist hubs.

From Puno, the tour will explore the iconic Lake Titicaca the following day.

Floating Islands and Island Lunch

The tour’s visit to Lake Titicaca culminates with a full-day exploration of the iconic Uros Floating Islands and Taquile Island.

Travelers embark on a boat tour, witnessing the ingenious reed-based floating islands inhabited by the Uros people. The experience offers a unique insight into their centuries-old way of life.

Next, the tour moves to Taquile Island, where visitors can:

Admire the island’s stunning landscapes and traditional Incan architecture.
Enjoy a typical Andean lunch prepared with local ingredients.
Interact with the friendly Taquileños and learn about their textile-making traditions.

This comprehensive lake experience provides a memorable culture and a fitting end to the captivating journey through Peru’s highlights.

Departure and Onward Travel

The tour concludes with a departure transfer from Puno to Lima, allowing travelers to seamlessly continue their journey.

This service marks the end of the 8-day exploration, making it convenient for participants to either return home or extend their vacation.

From Puno, the transfer takes you to the airport in Lima, where you can catch your onward flight.

Whether you’re headed to Bolivia or back home, this final transfer ensures a smooth transition out of the tour.

With the incredible sights and experiences of Peru now behind you, the departure provides a seamless way to continue your travels or return refreshed from an unforgettable adventure.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Opt Out of Any Included Activities?

The tour company generally allows customers to opt out of included activities, but they recommend participating in the full itinerary to get the most out of the experience. Any changes should be coordinated with the tour operator in advance.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour?

Yes, the tour can be extended. Travelers have the flexibility to add extra nights in Cusco, Puno, or other locations to explore more of Peru. Extensions can be customized based on individual interests and schedules.

How Is the Weather Typically During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is generally mild and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Layers and sun protection are recommended as the climate can vary by region and time of day.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Activities?

The recommended attire includes comfortable, lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and layers to adjust to varying temperatures. Bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor activities in the high altitudes.

Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?

The tour provides accommodations for special dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Travelers should notify the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance to ensure their needs are met throughout the tour.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour of Peru offers a rich and immersive cultural experience. Travelers will explore the vibrant capital of Lima, the historic charm of Cusco, the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, and the stunning Lake Titicaca. From savoring local cuisine to witnessing incredible archaeological sites, this adventure allows visitors to fully engage with the Andean culture, creating unforgettable memories.