From Lima - Cusco: Fantastic Peru 9 Days

This 9-day, 8-night tour of Peru takes travelers on a captivating journey through the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the bustling streets of Lima to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, this comprehensive itinerary promises an immersive experience that delves deep into Peru’s enduring legacy. Explore ancient sites, hike through stunning natural wonders, and discover the unique blend of indigenous and colonial influences that have shaped this remarkable destination. With guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, this tour offers a hassle-free way to uncover the magic of Peru.

Key Points

This 9-day, 8-night tour explores Peru’s historical, cultural, and natural wonders, including Lima, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley.
The tour includes guided city tours, visits to archaeological sites, wildlife encounters, and opportunities for adventure activities like sandboarding.
Highlights of the tour include the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the vibrant Humantay Lagoon, and the stunning landscapes of the Seven Colors Mountain and Maras Salt Mines.
The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions of the Inca civilization.
The tour offers a balanced mix of guided experiences and opportunities for independent exploration, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty and wonder of Peru.

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Tour Overview

This 9-day, 8-night tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s renowned historical, cultural, and natural wonders, taking travelers from the vibrant capital of Lima to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and beyond.

The journey includes a guided city tour of Lima, a visit to the stunning Ballestas Islands, and a deep dive into the Sacred Valley, where travelers can discover ancient Inca ruins and breathtaking vistas.

The highlight of the trip is, of course, the tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Along the way, travelers will also have the opportunity to hike to the stunning Humantay Lagoon and the vibrant Seven Colors Mountain.

This comprehensive tour provides a perfect introduction to the rich cultural and natural heritage of Peru.

Day 1: Lima City Sights

The tour begins in Lima, where travelers explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

They’ll start the day with a guided tour of Huaca Pucllana, an impressive pre-Incan archaeological site, before moving on to the historical center to admire colonial architecture and visit the Museo del Choco, dedicated to Peru’s renowned chocolate industry.

The tour also takes them to the Convent of San Francisco, known for its catacombs and vast library. This first day in Lima sets the stage for the incredible journey ahead, immersing the travelers in Peru’s vibrant past and present.

The day’s highlights include:

Exploring the ancient Huaca Pucllana site
Discovering the historical center’s colonial gems
Indulging in Peru’s world-famous chocolate
Visiting the Convent of San Francisco’s catacombs
Gaining insights into Lima’s rich cultural heritage

Day 2: Ica-Paracas Adventure

On the second day, travelers embark on an adventure in Ica and Paracas.

They’ll visit the Ballestas Islands, a breathtaking natural wonder teeming with diverse wildlife, before exploring a local vineyard and the enchanting oasis of Huacachina.

At the Ballestas Islands, they’ll witness colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and countless seabirds.

Next, they’ll learn about the region’s rich winemaking heritage at a nearby vineyard, sampling the local varietals.

Finally, they’ll venture to the stunning sand dunes of Huacachina, where they can try their hand at sandboarding or simply relax and take in the serene desert landscape.

It’s a day filled with natural beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Day 3: Exploring Cusco’s Landmarks

After exploring the natural wonders of Ica and Paracas, travelers now turn their attention to the iconic landmarks of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

The city tour takes visitors to must-see sites like Koricancha, the temple of the sun, and the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress with its massive stone walls.

Other highlights include the amphitheater-like Qenqo, the strategically located Puka pukara, and the ceremonial site of Tambomachay.

Exploring these ancient Inca ruins provides a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. This immersive experience leaves travelers with a newfound appreciation for the architectural and engineering feats of the Inca civilization.

Koricancha – the Temple of the Sun
Sacsayhuaman – an impressive Inca fortress
Qenqo – an amphitheater-like ruin
Puka pukara – a strategically located site
Tambomachay – a ceremonial site

Day 4: Discovering the Sacred Valley

Departing from Cusco, travelers delve deeper into the rich cultural tapestry of the Sacred Valley, uncovering a trove of Inca treasures along the way.

The tour first stops at the iconic town of Pisaq, renowned for its vibrant market and well-preserved Inca ruins.

Next, the group explores the ancient fortress of Ollantaytambo, marveling at the impressive stone structures and learning about the site’s strategic importance.

In Urubamba, they indulge in a traditional Peruvian lunch, savoring the flavors of the region.

Throughout the day, travelers gain a profound understanding of the Inca civilization, its architectural prowess, and the enduring legacy that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Day 5: Machu Picchu Journey

Travelers embark on a captivating journey to the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.

They’ll board a train that winds through the lush Andean countryside, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Upon arrival, they’ll explore the ancient Inca citadel, marveling at its architectural wonders and seeing the rich history and mystique of this sacred place.

The Machu Picchu experience offers:

Unparalleled cultural and historical significance
Awe-inspiring natural beauty
Opportunities for reflection and personal growth
Connections to the Inca civilization
Unforgettable memories to cherish for a lifetime

Day 6: Humantay Lagoon Hike

Travelers will embark on a thrilling hike to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, a pristine glacial lake nestled amidst the Andes Mountains. The hike will take approximately 4 hours, covering a distance of around 7 km.

Along the way, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush, verdant landscapes. Upon reaching the lagoon, travelers will be awestruck by the vibrant turquoise waters and the surrounding glaciers.

This day offers a chance to take in the serene beauty of Peru’s natural wonders. Trekking poles and warm layers are recommended to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Day 7-8: Awe-Inspiring Landscapes

From Lima – Cusco: Fantastic Peru 9 Days – 8 Nights

The next two days of the tour promise to be truly awe-inspiring, as travelers explore some of Peru’s most remarkable natural landscapes. On Day 7, hikers will venture to the stunning Seven Colors Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues created by the region’s unique geology.

On Day 8, the group will visit the Maras and Moray Salt Mines, a network of ancient saltwater pools and terraces that have been harvested for centuries.

This incredible itinerary offers:

Breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and rainbow-colored mountains
Insight into Peru’s rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions
Opportunities for hiking, exploration, and immersion in the natural world
Knowledgeable guides to provide context and enhance the experience
Memories that will last a lifetime

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for Smaller or Larger Group Sizes?

Travelers can book the tour for various group sizes. The operator typically accommodates small groups as well as larger parties. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider for specific details on group size options and any associated pricing or availability.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?

The tour includes transportation, tickets, meals, and equipment as mentioned. However, there may be additional costs for flights, travel insurance, tips, and any meals not specified in the inclusions. Customers should inquire about these to avoid unexpected fees.

Can the Tour Itinerary Be Customized or Modified to My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized or modified to the traveler’s preferences. The tour operator generally allows flexibility in the itinerary, with options to add or remove activities based on the traveler’s interests and needs.

What Is the Cancelation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve the tour now and pay later, providing flexibility. The refund policy allows for a full refund if cancelled within the 24-hour window.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Trekking and Hiking Activities?

The tour includes trekking equipment like poles, blankets, and oxygen for the hiking activities. Guests don’t need to bring any special gear, as it’s all provided for the Humantay Lagoon and Seven Colors Mountain hikes.

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Recap

This comprehensive 9-day tour showcases Peru’s remarkable historical, cultural, and natural wonders.

From the vibrant capital of Lima to the iconic Machu Picchu, travelers will embark on an unforgettable journey.

The itinerary features guided city tours, visits to ancient sites, and hikes through breathtaking landscapes, providing an immersive experience of Peru’s rich heritage and enduring legacy.

This tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the best of what this captivating country has to offer.