12-Day Discover Lima, Cusco, Machupicchu, and Puno

Day 1: Arrival in Lima City Tour

Upon your arrival at Lima International Airport, a Peruvian Culture Tours representative will warmly welcome you with a personalized sign and transfer you to your hotel.

Later, begin a guided exploration of Peru’s vibrant capital with pickup from your hotel in Miraflores, San Isidro, or Lima’s Historic Center.

Discover the city’s highlights, then continue to Plaza Mayor, the historic center of Lima, where you will admire the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima.

Visit the remarkable San Francisco Convent and Catacombs, one of Lima’s most important colonial landmarks, renowned for its beautiful architecture and fascinating underground passages.

Complete your tour with a scenic drive at the iconic Love Park (Parque del Amor), where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Overnight in Lima 3-star Hotel.

Day 2: Paracas, Huacachina with Buggies and Sandboarding (From Lima)

Your day begins early with a box breakfast provided by your hotel in Lima. At 4:00 AM, your official guide from Peruvian Culture Tours will meet you in the hotel lobby and accompany you to your private transportation for the journey south along Peru’s scenic Pacific coast.

After approximately 3 hours of driving, you will arrive in Paracas, one of Peru’s most important coastal wildlife reserves. Here, you will board a local speedboat for a 2-hour excursion to the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the “Peruvian Galápagos.” During this unforgettable experience, you will observe a wide variety of marine wildlife in their natural habitat, including Humboldt penguins, sea lions, pelicans, cormorants, gulls, and numerous nesting seabirds. You will also admire the famous Candelabra geoglyph, a mysterious prehistoric figure etched into the coastal hillside.

Following the boat tour, you will continue by private vehicle for approximately 1 hour to the oasis of Huacachina, a stunning natural lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes in the heart of the Peruvian desert.

Upon arrival, get ready for an exciting desert adventure. Enjoy a 90-minute dune buggy and sandboarding experience, exploring some of the highest dunes in South America. Feel the thrill as you ride across the golden sands and try sandboarding down the slopes. Throughout the excursion, you will have plenty of opportunities to admire and photograph the spectacular desert landscapes and the beautiful oasis lagoon.

After enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Huacachina and some free time to relax, you will begin the return journey to Lima. Arrival is expected in the evening, concluding an unforgettable day exploring two of Peru’s most iconic destinations.

• Entrance tickets included
• hotel in lima

Day 3: Arrival in Cusco – Sacred Valley Overnight

Day 4 : Explore the best circuit in Machupicchu

Today, you will experience the breathtaking wonder of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

After breakfast at your hotel in the Sacred Valley, you will travel by comfortable private van to the train station, where you will board an expedition train to Aguas Calientes. During the approximately two-hour journey, you will enjoy spectacular views, admiring the majestic mountains, winding rivers, and lush cloud forest landscapes of the Andes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our professional guide will warmly welcome you and accompany you to your hotel. You will then have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the town’s recommended restaurants, including Full House Craft Beer & Peruvian Cuisine, Chullos Restaurant, Ponchos Peruvian Kitchen, Green House Vegetarian Restaurant, or Misky Restaurant.

In the afternoon, your guide will accompany you to the bus station for a scenic 35-minute ride up the mountain to Machu Picchu. If weather conditions allow, you may have the unforgettable opportunity to enjoy the sunset over the ancient Inca citadel.

After presenting your passport and entrance ticket, you will begin a guided tour of approximately three hours through this extraordinary archaeological masterpiece. During the visit, you will explore the most iconic viewpoints for classic Machu Picchu photographs while learning about the remarkable Inca architecture, sacred temples, agricultural terraces, and advanced engineering that make this site one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures.

At the end of the tour, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax, enjoy a memorable dinner, and spend the night surrounded by the magical atmosphere of Machu Picchu town.

Day 5 : Panoramic Vistadome Train – Ollantaytambo 

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your hotel in Aguas Calientes before breakfast. Afterward, you will have free time to explore the charming town, browse the local handicraft and textile markets, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the foot of Machu Picchu.

At the scheduled time, we will accompany you to the train station to board the Panoramic Train. During the approximately two-hour journey to Ollantaytambo, admire the spectacular Andean scenery from the train’s panoramic windows and open-air balcony while enjoying live Andean music, traditional quinoa snacks, and a cup of coca tea.

Upon arrival, your Peruvian Culture Tours representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Ollantaytambo. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore this charming living Inca town at your own pace.

Day 6: Explore Sacred Valley Tour 

After breakfast, your professional guide will meet you at your hotel in the Sacred Valley at 8:30 a.m. for a full-day private tour through one of Peru’s most extraordinary cultural and historical regions. Travel at a relaxed pace in the comfort of private transportation to the remarkable legacy of the Inca civilization.

Your journey begins with a guided visit to the magnificent Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, one of the best-preserved Inca towns and an impressive ceremonial and military center. Continue to a carefully selected local restaurant for a delicious lunch featuring  the Sacred Valley.

In the afternoon, explore the breathtaking Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools have been harvested since pre-Inca times, followed by a visit to the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, the Incas’ remarkable agricultural research center. Complete your experience in Chinchero, a traditional Andean village renowned for its colonial church, impressive Inca ruins, and centuries-old weaving traditions preserved by local artisans.

Before returning to Cusco, stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire the spectacular landscapes of the Sacred Valley. This unforgettable experience perfectly blends Inca history, living culture, breathtaking Andean scenery, and the personalized service that defines Peruvian Culture Tours.

Day 7: Humantay Lake with Horse

Today, embark on an unforgettable journey to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), one of the most spectacular turquoise lakes in the Peruvian Andes. Surrounded by the majestic snow-capped Humantay Mountain, this sacred destination offers breathtaking scenery and a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and living traditions of the Andes.

Your adventure begins with a 5:00 am pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Travel in a private vehicle for approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to Mollepata, where you will enjoy breakfast. From there, continue for about 1 hour to Soraypampa, the starting point of your adventure.

A gentle 25-minute walk leads to the horse station, where your local horse and horseman will be waiting. Enjoy a comfortable 2-hour horse-assisted ascent to the magnificent Humantay Lake while taking in the spectacular mountain landscapes.

Upon arrival, your professional guide will share the history, cultural significance, and Andean traditions surrounding this sacred lagoon. Take time to admire its crystal-clear turquoise waters, capture unforgettable photographs from the best viewpoints, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this remarkable natural wonder.

After exploring Humantay Lake, descend on foot for approximately 2 hours to Soraypampa, our transport awaits, and we head to Mollepata for a delicious lunch. Finally, relax during the scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel at approximately 6:00 pm.

Day 8 : Cusco City Tour & Inca Mummies Museum

Discover the wonders of Cusco on an unforgettable half-day city tour beginning at 8:30 AM. After breakfast at your hotel, our professional guide will greet you and accompany you in comfortable tourist transportation for an enriching journey through the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

During your tour, you will explore some of the most iconic archaeological sites surrounding Cusco, including the majestic Sacsayhuamán, the ceremonial center of Qenqo, and the authentic Rosaspata Quechua Market, where you will experience local traditions and daily Andean life. Along the way, your expert guide will share the fascinating history, remarkable Inca architecture, and rich cultural heritage that make Cusco the historic capital of the Inca Empire.

The experience also includes a visit to the Inca Mummies Museum, where you will gain unique insights into ancient Inca culture, rituals, and burial practices.

The tour concludes at approximately 1:30 PM, leaving you with free time to continue discovering the charm, culture, and beauty of Cusco at your own pace.

Day 9: Explore Raimbow Mountain Tour with Motorcycle.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in comfort with a motorcycle-assisted adventure. This unique experience lets you enjoy one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders with minimal hiking while taking in spectacular Andean scenery.

Your day begins with a 6:00 am pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Travel in a private vehicle for approximately 3 hours through the scenic South Valley to the trailhead near Rainbow Mountain.

Upon arrival, board a local motorcycle for a 15-minute ride to the upper access point. From there, enjoy an easy 5-minute walk along mostly flat terrain to the spectacular viewpoint. This comfortable option is ideal for travelers who prefer a more convenient way to experience Rainbow Mountain.

At the summit, your professional guide will share the history, geology, and cultural significance of this remarkable destination. Emergency oxygen is available throughout the tour as a precaution due to the high altitude. Take your time to admire the colorful mineral formations and capture unforgettable photographs from the best viewpoints.

From the summit, enjoy magnificent views of Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region. Its snow-covered glaciers and dramatic Andean landscapes create an unforgettable backdrop for your visit.

After exploring Rainbow Mountain, return by motorcycle to the trailhead, where your private vehicle will be waiting. Continue to Cusipata for a delicious lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant. After lunch, relax on the scenic 3-hour drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel between 5:00 and 6:00 pm.

Day 10: Titicaca Train Journey from Cusco to Puno

The Titicaca Train operates only on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Please consider this when planning your itinerary.

After breakfast, your Peruvian Culture Tours representative will transfer you from your hotel in Cusco to Wanchaq Train Station. Board the legendary Titicaca Train, one of South America’s most scenic rail journeys.

Travel through the spectacular Peruvian Andes while enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, traditional villages, and herds of alpacas and llamas. Relax in the elegant observation car or step onto the open-air balcony to admire the breathtaking landscapes.

On board, experience outstanding Andean hospitality. Enjoy a gourmet three-course lunch, afternoon tea, live music, traditional dance performances, and a classic Pisco Sour demonstration.

The journey also includes a stop at La Raya Pass (4,319 m / 14,170 ft), the highest point. Here, you can admire magnificent panoramic views of the Andes and capture unforgettable photographs.

Upon arrival in Puno, a Peruvian Culture Tours representative will welcome you at the train station with a personalized sign. You will then be transferred comfortably to your hotel.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax and acclimatize before tomorrow’s unforgettable exploration of the legendary Lake Titicaca.

Day 11: Lake Titicaca Tour

After breakfast at your hotel in Puno (3,827 m / 12,556 ft), your Peruvian Culture Tours guide will pick you up for a full-day exploration of Lake Titicaca (3,812 m / 12,507 ft), the highest navigable lake in the world.

Transfer to the port and board a comfortable boat to begin your journey across the legendary lake. Your first stop is the famous Uros Floating Islands, where you will discover the unique traditions of the Uros people. Learn how they have built and maintained their floating islands entirely from totora reeds for generations.

Continue by boat to Taquile Island, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, world-famous textiles, and spectacular scenery. Upon arrival, enjoy a gentle 30-minute uphill walk to the main village. There, you will experience local traditions and watch a colorful cultural dance performed by members of the community.

After the presentation, enjoy a delicious lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients. Relax while taking in breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding Andes.

In the afternoon, board the boat for the return journey to Puno. Admire the peaceful beauty of the lake and its magnificent panoramic landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival at the port, your private transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to relax or enjoy dinner at your leisure before your overnight stay in Puno.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast at your hotel, our team will transfer you to Juliaca Airport approximately 3 hours before your flight departure to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

From Juliaca airport , you will board your flight to Lima, where you will have enough time to connect to your international flight home.

This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Peru, filled with incredible landscapes, ancient history, rich culture, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

• Transfer from the Hotel to the Airport Juliaca.