From Lima: 9-day/8-night Tour With Ica-Paracas-Cusco + Hotel **

This comprehensive 9-day/8-night tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Peru’s diverse highlights, starting from the vibrant capital city of Lima. Travelers can explore the ancient pre-Columbian ruins, wander through the historic center, and marvel at the contemporary side of the city. The journey continues with a visit to the captivating Ballestas Islands and the ethereal Huacachina oasis, followed by an aerial adventure over the enigmatic Nazca Lines. As the tour progresses, the focus shifts to uncovering the Inca legacy in Cusco and the lush Sacred Valley, culminating in the iconic Machu Picchu. With a range of activities and experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s rich cultural and natural wonders.

Key Points

A comprehensive 9-day/8-night tour exploring the highlights of Lima, Ica-Paracas, and Cusco regions, including Machu Picchu.
Visits to iconic sites like the Huaca Pucllana, Ballestas Islands, Nazca Lines, Sacsayhuaman, and Humantay Lake.
Opportunity to experience a range of activities, from sandboarding and dune buggy rides to hiking and culture.
Accommodation provided throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience.
Tour covers the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Peru, offering an immersive and unforgettable experience.

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

Lima City Highlights

What starts the Lima city tour is a panoramic visit to the Huaca Pucllana, an impressive pre-Columbian pyramid from the 4th century.

Afterward, guests explore the historic center, including the San Francisco Monastery and its renowned catacombs, before discovering the contemporary side of Lima at the vibrant Love Park.

The tour provides an insightful look into Lima’s diverse heritage, from its ancient roots to its modern urban landscape. Visitors will be captivated by the city’s blend of historical and cultural attractions, as they explore the intriguing history and architecture that make Lima a unique and fascinating destination.

The comprehensive tour ensures travelers experience the best of what this dynamic capital city has to offer.

Ballestas Islands and Huacachina

After exploring the rich history and sights of Lima, the tour then takes visitors to the stunning Ballestas Islands and the captivating Huacachina oasis.

The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Galapagos,’ offer a unique opportunity to witness an abundance of marine life, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds.

Travelers can then enjoy the tranquil and otherworldly setting of the Huacachina oasis, known for its towering sand dunes and the thrilling activities of sandboarding and dune buggy rides.

This part of the tour promises a diverse and unforgettable experience, combining the natural wonders of the Peruvian coast with the excitement of outdoor adventures.

Nazca Lines Overflight

Soaring high above the arid Peruvian landscape, visitors embark on a captivating aerial adventure to witness the enigmatic Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has puzzled scholars and fascinated the public for decades.

These remarkable geoglyphs, etched into the desert floor, depict a variety of shapes and figures, including animals, geometric patterns, and mysterious line drawings that stretch for miles.

During the 30-minute flight, passengers marvel at the scale and complexity of these ancient wonders, pondering the purpose and origins of these striking designs that have endured for centuries.

The Nazca Lines overflight provides a unique perspective on this archaeological marvel, offering a spellbinding glimpse into the past.

Cusco City Exploration

Travelers embark on a captivating exploration of Cusco, the ancient Inca capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. They’ll discover the remarkable Qoricancha, also known as the ‘Temple of the Sun,’ whose stonework and architecture showcase the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.

Next, they’ll venture to the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, with its massive stone structures and sweeping views over the city.

The tour also includes visits to:

Qenqo, an ancient Inca religious and administrative center.
Puka Pukara, a pre-Inca military complex.
Tambomachay, a site believed to have been used as a spa or place of rest for the Inca emperor.

They’ll explore the Sacred Valley, where they’ll discover the ruins of Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo.

Sacred Valley Immersion

The Sacred Valley, a lush and verdant region nestled in the Andes, beckons travelers with its ancient Inca ruins, vibrant markets, and breathtaking landscapes.

A highlight of the tour is a visit to the iconic town of Pisac, where visitors can explore the impressive Inca ruins and browse the colorful artisan market.

In Urubamba, guests will marvel at the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, an engineering marvel that showcases the advanced construction techniques of the Inca Empire.

The journey also includes a stop in the quaint town of Ollantaytambo, where travelers can enjoy the local culture and witness traditional weaving demonstrations.

The Sacred Valley tour offers a unique window into Peru’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Machu Picchu Experience

Undoubtedly, the guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, the famed ‘Lost City of the Incas,’ is the crown jewel of this comprehensive itinerary. Guests will be mesmerized by the ancient Inca citadel’s impressive stone structures, terraced fields, and breathtaking vistas overlooking the Urubamba River.

The tour includes:

An expert guide who’ll bring the site’s history and significance to life.
Ample time to explore the ruins and discover hidden corners and viewpoints.
The opportunity to hike up the iconic Huayna Picchu for a bird’s-eye view of the entire complex.
The chance to witness the stunning sunrise over Machu Picchu, a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Humantay Lake Trek

Although situated at an elevation of nearly 14,000 feet, the hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake offers a breathtaking experience for adventurous travelers.

This challenging yet rewarding trek through the Andes showcases the region’s natural splendor, with panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers that leave a lasting impression.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Cusco, followed by a moderate hike through alpine meadows and past glacial moraines.

As the trail ascends, hikers are treated to jaw-dropping views of the emerald-hued Humantay Lake, nestled beneath the towering Salkantay mountain.

This excursion promises an unforgettable glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Peruvian highlands, making it a must-do activity for those seeking an authentic outdoor adventure.

Rainbow Mountain Hike

Situated amid the breathtaking Cusco region, the Rainbow Mountain hike takes adventurous travelers on a captivating journey through a spectrum of vibrant, multicolored slopes that have been carved by centuries of geological activity.

This challenging yet rewarding trek promises stunning vistas, including:

Striking mineral deposits that create a kaleidoscope of reds, golds, and greens across the mountain’s surface.

Dramatic snow-capped peaks contrasting with the rainbow-like hues below.

Panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountain range, offering a sense of scale and grandeur.

The opportunity to witness the unique Andean wildlife, like the iconic Andean Condor, in its natural habitat.

Trekkers are sure to be captivated by this one-of-a-kind natural wonder, making the Rainbow Mountain hike an unforgettable highlight of any Cusco adventure.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be suitable for people with disabilities, as it’s not mentioned in the details. Travelers with accessibility needs should inquire about accommodations and accessibility options before booking.

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary During the Tour?

Travelers can typically make minor changes to the itinerary during the tour, but significant changes may incur additional fees. It’s best to communicate any desired changes with the tour operator in advance to ensure feasibility and avoid extra costs.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified in the details provided. However, group tours typically range from around 8 to 20 participants, allowing for a personalized experience while maintaining efficient logistics.

Are Meals Included Throughout the Entire Tour?

The tour includes some meals, but specific meal details are not provided. Meals throughout the entire tour are not included, and travelers will need to pay for additional meals not specified in the tour details.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Hotel Accommodations?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the hotel accommodations. Guests can choose from a range of higher-end hotels at an additional cost. The tour operator offers flexible booking options to meet individual preferences.

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