This 7-day, 6-night tour of Peru’s highlights promises an immersive cultural experience. From the ancient pre-Columbian wonders of Lima to the UNESCO-listed historic center, travelers will venture to the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina oasis, and uncover the Inca legacy in Cusco and Machu Picchu. Exploring the vibrant Rainbow Mountain and floating islands of Lake Titicaca, the journey showcases Peru’s diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and rich cultural heritage. Whether seeking breathtaking natural beauty or delving into the country’s storied past, this comprehensive itinerary offers a magical journey through one of South America’s most captivating destinations.
Key Points
- Explore the pre-Columbian Huaca Pucllana and the historic center of Lima, including the Monumental complex of San Francisco.
- Visit the Ballestas Islands, known as the ‘Poor Man’s Galapagos’, and the Huacachina oasis with its sand dunes.
- Discover the former Inca capital of Cusco, including Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas.
- Hike to the colorful summit of Rainbow Mountain, offering panoramic views of the Andes.
- Immerse in the ancient traditions of Lake Titicaca, including the floating islands of the Uros and Taquile Island.
Lima: Huaca Pucllana and Historic Center
Commencing the tour in Lima, visitors will explore the Huaca Pucllana, an impressive pre-Columbian archaeological site featuring a well-preserved adobe pyramid.
Following this, they’ll embark on a captivating journey through the historic center, where the Monumental complex of San Francisco showcases the city’s colonial grandeur. Wandering the charming cobblestone streets, travelers will be transported back in time, admiring the intricate architecture and vibrant plazas.
The tour then ventures into the contemporary areas of Miraflores, San Isidro, and Larcomar, offering a glimpse into Lima’s modern vibrancy.
From the ancient ruins to the cosmopolitan neighborhoods, this comprehensive introduction to the capital city sets the stage for the remarkable journey ahead.
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Paracas: Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis
From Lima, the tour then heads south to the Paracas Peninsula, where travelers first visit the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Galapagos.’
This cluster of small islands is home to an abundance of marine life, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds.
After exploring the Ballestas Islands, the tour continues to the nearby Huacachina oasis, a surreal desert lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes.
Here, visitors can experience the thrill of dune buggies and sandboarding down the massive dunes. This unique landscape offers a stark contrast to the coastal environment of the Ballestas Islands, providing a well-rounded experience for travelers exploring the Paracas region.
Cusco: City Tour and Machu Picchu
Upon departing Paracas, the tour makes its way northward to the historic city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.
Travelers are whisked on a comprehensive city tour, exploring the remarkably preserved Inca ruins and Spanish colonial architecture that dot the UNESCO-listed city center.
The day begins at the Qoricancha, an Inca temple once covered in gold that now serves as the foundation for the colonial-era Santo Domingo Convent.
From there, the tour visits the mighty Sacsayhuaman fortress, the enigmatic Qenqo amphitheater, the reddish Puka Pukara ruins, and the tranquil Tambomachay baths.
After this in-depth exploration of Cusco’s highlights, the journey continues to the crown jewel – the lost city of Machu Picchu, where travelers marvel at the Inca citadel’s breathtaking setting.
Cusco: Rainbow Mountain Excursion
Departing Cusco, travelers embark on a day trip to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, a breathtaking natural wonder known for its vibrant, multicolored strata. The ascent to the summit, situated at an impressive 5,200 meters above sea level, promises panoramic views that will leave a lasting impression. Along the way, adventurous souls can expect to encounter local herds of alpacas and llamas, adding to the authentic Andean experience.
Rainbow Mountain Highlights | |||
---|---|---|---|
Vibrant Striations | Challenging Hike | Andean Wildlife | Awe-Inspiring Views |
The mountain’s spectrum of colors, from reds and golds to greens and blues, creates a mesmerizing natural display. | The trek to the summit tests one’s endurance but rewards climbers with a sense of accomplishment. | Llamas, alpacas, and other Andean species dot the landscape, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna. | From the peak, guests can gaze upon a breathtaking panorama of the Andes, an unforgettable highlight of the day. |
Puno: Uros and Taquile Islands
Travelers journey to Puno, a lakeside city nestled on the shores of the iconic Lake Titicaca, to explore the remarkable Uros and Taquile islands.
At the Uros islands, they’ll discover a unique floating community built entirely of totora reeds. They’ll learn about the traditional way of life and customs of the Uros people.
Next, they’ll visit Taquile Island, known for its intricate textile arts and vibrant cultural heritage. Here, they’ll wander through the quaint town, interact with the local artisans, and savor a traditional Andean lunch.
This immersive experience offers a window into the ancient traditions that have endured on these remarkable islands of Lake Titicaca.
Accommodations and Transfers
In the ‘Magic Peru With Cusco and Puno’ tour package, the accommodations and transfers are well-taken care of. The tour package includes 6 nights of accommodation in 3-star hotels throughout the journey. Airport pick-up and transfers between the destinations are also provided, ensuring a seamless and convenient travel experience.
Destination | Hotel |
---|---|
Lima | Hotel Antigua Miraflores |
Paracas | Hotel San Agustin Paracas |
Cusco | Hotel Emperador |
Puno | Hotel Qalasaya |
All transfers, including airport pick-up and transportation between cities, are included in the package, allowing travelers to focus on exploring the wonders of Peru without the hassle of logistics.
Dining and Meal Inclusions
The ‘Magic Peru With Cusco and Puno’ tour package includes select meals throughout the journey, providing travelers with a taste of Peruvian cuisine.
In Lima, breakfast and lunch are included, allowing guests to savor local specialties like ceviche and lomo saltado.
In Paracas, breakfast is provided before the excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina oasis.
In Cusco and Puno, breakfast is included daily at the hotels. Lunch is also provided during the full-day tour to Machu Picchu and the day trip to Rainbow Mountain.
This selection of included meals ensures travelers can experience the vibrant flavors of Peru without the hassle of finding dining options on their own.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The package costs from SEK 13,414 per person and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This provides travelers with peace of mind and flexibility in planning their trip. The package includes several inclusions, such as airport pick-up, bilingual tour guides, hotel accommodations, and some meals.
To further assist travelers, here’s a breakdown of the booking and cancellation policy:
Booking Policy | Cancellation Policy |
---|---|
Secure your spot with a deposit | Free cancellation up to 24 hours |
Pay the remaining balance 30 days prior | Cancellations after 24 hours subject to fees |
Book early for the best availability | Travel insurance recommended for further protection |
Contact the provider for any special requests | Modifications may incur additional charges |
Flexible payment options available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
Yes, the tour duration can typically be extended if needed. Travelers should contact the tour operator to inquire about extending the trip and any additional costs associated with the extension.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment for the Activities?
For the tour activities, guests may need some special equipment such as comfortable shoes for hiking, sun protection, and warm layers for cooler temperatures. The tour operator can provide details on recommended gear for the different excursions.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?
The package includes all entrance fees and most meals, so there are no additional fees or hidden costs. Travelers should budget for any personal expenses, such as souvenirs or optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
The tour package allows for some customization based on traveler preferences. Customers can discuss adjustments to the itinerary with the tour provider, who’ll work to accommodate requests within the package’s structure and duration.
Is Travel Insurance Included in the Package?
The tour package does not include travel insurance. Customers are responsible for arranging their own travel insurance coverage. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, but any other changes or cancellations may incur additional fees.
Recap
This 7-day, 6-night tour of Peru’s highlights offers an immersive experience, from exploring pre-Columbian wonders in Lima to marveling at the breathtaking Machu Picchu and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain.
Guests will discover the Inca legacy, visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and explore the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this magical destination.
Comprehensive itinerary, accommodations, and transfers ensure a seamless journey through Peru’s captivating sights and experiences.
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