Peru’s 11-day trekking tour offers an unparalleled blend of culture and natural wonders. From the vibrant streets of Lima to the enigmatic Nazca Lines, travelers will embark on a journey that showcases the country’s diverse heritage. Beyond the iconic Machu Picchu, this experience delves into the hidden gems of the Sacred Valley, where the Maras Salt Mines and the serene Humantay Lagoon await. Whether seeking adventure or seeking to uncover the soul of Peru, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration.
This experience made our list of the 14 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Urubamba.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 11-day trekking tour in Peru, featuring visits to iconic sites like Machu Picchu and the Huacachina Oasis.
- Immersive experience exploring diverse cultural and natural attractions, including the Nazca Lines and Cusco’s colonial architecture.
- Accommodation in comfortable 4-star hotels throughout the journey.
- Opportunity to engage with local communities, learn traditional weaving techniques, and savor Peruvian cuisine.
- Exploration of natural wonders like the Maras Salt Mines, Humantay Lagoon, and Colored Mountain.
Itinerary Overview
The itinerary for this 11-day trekking tour in Peru offers a diverse range of cultural and natural attractions, allowing participants to enjoy the country’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
The tour begins with a city tour of Lima, followed by a visit to the Paracas National Reserve and the mesmerizing Huacachina Oasis.
Travelers will then have the opportunity to take an overflight over the famous Nazca Lines before exploring the historic city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
The highlight of the tour is the iconic Machu Picchu, which visitors will have the chance to explore in-depth.
Other notable stops include the Maras Salt Mines, Humantay Lagoon, and the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Urubamba.
Lima City Tour
After arriving at Lima’s airport, the tour begins with a comprehensive city tour that showcases the vibrant capital’s colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and lively cultural attractions.
Travelers will stroll through the charming Plaza de Armas, the heart of Lima, and admire the impressive 16th-century Cathedral of Lima. They’ll also visit the Convent of San Francisco, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and catacombs.
The tour then takes them to the Museo Larco, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts. Throughout the day, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the rich history and culture of this fascinating city, setting the stage for the adventure that lies ahead.
Paracas and Huacachina Oasis
Departing from Lima, the tour ventures south to the coastal region of Paracas, home to the breathtaking Huacachina Oasis, a serene natural wonder nestled amidst towering sand dunes. Visitors can soar over the dunes on thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboard down the slopes. The oasis itself is a picturesque lagoon surrounded by lush palm trees, offering a tranquil respite from the desert landscape. Adventurous travelers can even take a dip in the rejuvenating waters. The tour also includes a visit to the Paracas National Reserve, where guests can witness the diverse wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.
Activity | Duration | Cost |
---|---|---|
Dune Buggy Ride | 1 hour | $20 |
Sandboarding | 1 hour | $15 |
Boat Tour | 2 hours | $25 |
Kayaking | 1 hour | $10 |
Hiking | 2-3 hours | Free |
Nazca Overflight
From Paracas, the tour heads to the enigmatic Nazca Lines, where travelers embark on an unforgettable overflight to witness these ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert landscape.
The Nazca Lines are a series of enormous drawings covering an area of over 50 square miles, believed to have been created by the Nazca civilization between 500 and 800 AD.
The only way to fully appreciate the scale and intricate designs of these mysterious markings is from the air. During the 30-minute flight, guests will soar over the famous figures, including the hummingbird, spider, and condor, as well as other geometric shapes and lines.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience provides a unique perspective on one of Peru’s most iconic archaeological wonders.
More Great Tours NearbyCusco and Sacred Valley
The tour now shifts its focus to the historic city of Cusco and the majestic Sacred Valley, offering travelers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
In Cusco, the group will explore the city’s well-preserved colonial architecture and visit iconic sites like the Cusco Cathedral and the impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins.
The Sacred Valley tour takes them to the ancient Inca sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, showcasing the engineering marvels of the Inca civilization.
Visitors will also have the chance to interact with local communities, discover traditional weaving techniques, and savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine. This portion of the tour promises to be a deeply immersive and enlightening experience.
Machu Picchu Exploration
Travelers on this captivating tour will have the privilege of exploring the iconic Machu Picchu, the legendary 15th-century Inca citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains.
They’ll ascend to this awe-inspiring archaeological site via the scenic tourist train, marveling at the stunning vistas along the way.
Once there, they’ll embark on a guided tour, uncovering the fascinating history and intricate architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With ample time to wander through the ancient ruins and soak in the serene atmosphere, guests will leave Machu Picchu with a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for this remarkable feat of Inca engineering.
Maras Salt Mines and Moray
Nestled amid the breathtaking Andean landscape, the Maras Salt Mines and the ancient ruins of Moray offer travelers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
The Maras Salt Mines, a vast network of over 3,000 individual salt ponds, have been in use since pre-Inca times. Visitors can witness the traditional salt-harvesting process, where workers collect the salt by hand.
Nearby, the mysterious Moray site features a series of enormous circular terraces, believed to have been an Inca agricultural research center. Descending into these ancient ruins, travelers can imagine the ingenious agricultural techniques employed by the Incas.
Both sites provide a fascinating contrast between Peru’s natural wonders and its enduring cultural legacy.
Humantay Lagoon and Colored Mountain
Hiking to the serene Humantay Lagoon and exploring the vibrant Colored Mountain provide travelers with a chance to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking natural landscapes.
The Humantay Lagoon, nestled beneath the imposing Humantay glacier, offers stunning turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks. Hikers can enjoy the challenging yet rewarding trek, taking in the magnificent views along the way.
The Colored Mountain, on the other hand, showcases a palette of vivid hues, ranging from reds and oranges to greens and blues, all formed by the unique geological processes of the region.
Both experiences offer travelers a deeper appreciation for Peru’s diverse and awe-inspiring natural wonders, creating lasting memories of their trekking adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?
Yes, the tour can likely be extended to include additional destinations. Clients should speak with the tour operator to inquire about customizing the itinerary and adding extra days or stops to explore more of Peru.
What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Trekking Portions?
The trekking portions of the tour utilize a combination of hiking and public transportation. Specifically, the itinerary includes walks to destinations like Humantay Lagoon and the Inca Bridge, as well as tourist buses for longer travel between cities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions, but a moderate level of fitness is required for the trekking portions. Guests should be able to hike for several hours at a time. Any health concerns should be discussed with the tour operator.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Personal Interests?
The tour operator may allow some customization to accommodate personal interests, though the core itinerary and attractions are fixed. Travelers should consult with the operator to discuss any desired changes and see what’s possible within the tour’s parameters.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?
The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel up to 30 days before the tour start date for a full refund, minus a small administrative fee. Within 30 days, the refund amount may be reduced.
Recap
This 11-day trekking tour in Peru offers travelers a diverse cultural and natural experience. From the bustling city of Lima to the iconic Machu Picchu, the itinerary showcases Peru’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Travelers will enjoy the country’s wonders, including the Paracas National Reserve, Huacachina Oasis, Nazca Lines, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Maras Salt Mines, Moray, Humantay Lagoon, and the Colored Mountain.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Urubamba
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