Discover Peru beyond the typical tourist trail on this 14-day mystic tour, where ancient history and living Andean spirituality come together. From the pre-Inca temple of Pachacamac and the mysterious Nazca Lines to the imperial city of Cusco and the terraced beauty of the Sacred Valley, every stop reveals a different layer of Peru’s cultural and spiritual heritage — culminating in two unhurried visits to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
More than a sightseeing itinerary, this journey invites you to participate in authentic Andean traditions: a Limpia cleansing ceremony guided by a local priest, a Pachamanca feast cooked underground, and time at the sacred site of Quillarumiyoc. With private transport, expert guides, and a small-group format, this 14-day mystic expedition is designed for travelers seeking a deeper, more meaningful connection with Peru.
Overview
This 14-day Peru mystic tour is more than a checklist of ruins — it's a journey through three completely different geographies and climates, each with its own energy: the desert coast, the mystical highlands, and the cloud forest surrounding Machu Picchu. Understanding these transitions helps travelers prepare properly and appreciate why this itinerary is structured the way it is.
Climate and Geography Along the Route
Peru's diversity means you'll experience three distinct climate zones during this trip:
| Region | Tour Days | Climate | Average Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coast (Lima, Pisco, Nazca) | Days 1–4 | Desert, dry, low cloud cover | 18°C – 28°C (64°F – 82°F) |
| Highlands (Cusco, Sacred Valley) | Days 5–13 | Andean, dry May–October; rainy November–April | 5°C – 20°C (41°F – 68°F), cold nights |
| Cloud Forest (Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu) | Days 8–9 | Warm and humid | 12°C – 25°C (54°F – 77°F) |
Because the tour moves through such varied environments in a short time, packing in layers isn't optional — it's essential. Mornings in Cusco can start near freezing, while afternoons on the coast can be intensely sunny.
Altitude: What You Should Know
Altitude is one of the most important physical factors on this trip, and the itinerary is deliberately paced to reduce risk:
| Destination | Altitude (masl) | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lima | 154 m | None |
| Nazca | 588 m | None |
| Cusco | 3,399 m | Moderate – high |
| Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo) | 2,792 m | Moderate |
| Machu Picchu | 2,430 m | Low (lower than Cusco) |
| Aguas Calientes | 2,040 m | Low |
A key advantage of this itinerary: it front-loads the low-altitude coastal days (Lima, Pisco, Nazca) before ascending to Cusco, giving your body a gradual introduction rather than a sudden jump from sea level to over 3,000 meters. Additionally, Day 5 is reserved specifically for acclimatization before any strenuous activity begins.
Comparison: First vs. Second Visit to Machu Picchu
One of this tour's defining features is the double visit to Machu Picchu — a rarity among standard packages. Here's how the two days differ:
| Aspect | Day 8 – First Visit | Day 9 – Second Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Time of day | Afternoon (sunset light) | Morning (clearer light) |
| Tour length | 2.5-hour guided tour | More relaxed exploration |
| Focus | General overview of the site | Sun Gate, Inca Bridge, architectural detail |
| Optional activity | — | Huayna Picchu hike (advance booking required) |
| Atmosphere | Fewer crowds, golden light | Larger groups, better visibility |
This structure means travelers avoid the common frustration of a single, rushed 2-hour visit and instead experience the site from two very different perspectives — light, crowd levels, and areas explored.
Tour Highlights by Category
| Category | Included Highlights |
|---|---|
| Pre-Inca Archaeology | Pachacamac, Nazca Lines, Chauchilla Cemetery |
| Inca Archaeology | Sacsayhuaman, Ollantaytambo, Moray, Tipón, Raqchi, Machu Picchu |
| Nature | Huacachina Oasis, Hot Springs, Sacred Valley landscapes |
| Living Culture | Artisan workshop, llama farm, Chinchero textiles |
| Spirituality | Limpia ceremony, Quillarumiyoc, Pachamanca ritual |
This balance — roughly 40% archaeology, 25% cultural immersion, 20% spiritual ceremony, and 15% free/rest time — is what distinguishes a "mystic" itinerary from a purely historical one.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – Group Meeting & Visit to Pachacamac
Upon arrival in Lima, we will have a group meeting at 9:00 AM at Hotel Costa del Sol to go over the details of our journey.
At 10:00 AM, we will depart in our private transportation to visit the fascinating pre-Inca site of Pachacamac, one of the most important temples built to honor the god Pachacamac. This archaeological site, located near Lima, played a crucial role during the expansion of the Inca civilization.
Our guided tour of Pachacamac will take approximately 2 hours, during which we will explore its temples, plazas, and ancient roads while learning about its historical and spiritual significance.
At 1:00 PM, we will return to Hotel Costa del Sol, where you will have free time to rest, explore Lima, or prepare for the adventure ahead.
- Overnight: Lima
- Transport: Private vehicle
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 2: Lima & Miraflores Walking Tour – Transfer to Pisco
In the morning, we will embark on an orientation walking tour in Lima, exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and gaining insight into its rich history and culture. We will also visit Miraflores, one of Lima’s most vibrant districts, where we can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the Malecón and explore the famous Parque Kennedy and the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site (exterior view).
In the afternoon, we will board our private transport for a scenic journey to Pisco, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. Upon arrival, we will take some time to rest before having a briefing about the next day’s activities.
For the following day, we offer two tour options:
– A visit to the Ballestas Islands, a sanctuary for diverse marine wildlife.
– A tour of Paracas National Park, an alternative for those who may experience sea sickness.
- Overnight: Pisco
- Transport: Private transport
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 3: Transfer to Nazca via Huacachina Oasis
We will take a private transport to Nazca, with a stop at the beautiful Huacachina Oasis. The journey is approximately 3-4 hours, offering scenic views along the way. After visiting the oasis, we will make a stop at a tower located in Pampas, providing a great view of the surrounding landscape.
On the way to Nazca, we will pass through several farming areas. In the evening, there is an optional visit to the Nazca Planetarium, where you can learn more about the mysterious Nazca Lines and the region’s fascinating history.
Additionally, you can choose to enjoy an optional adventure activity such as sand-dune buggies and sand-boarding, for a thrilling experience on the desert dunes.
- Overnight: Nazca
- Transport: Private transport
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 4: Nazca – Pre-Inca Cemetery & Optional Nazca Lines Flight
In the morning, we will explore the pre-Inca cemetery in Nazca, including a visit to the Chauchilla Cemetery, an ancient burial site that provides insight into the pre-Inca culture of the region. After the tour, you will have free time in Nazca to relax or explore the town.
In the late afternoon or evening, we will take our Private transportation back to Lima, a journey that takes approximately 10-11 hours.
For those interested, we offer an optional flight over the Nazca Lines (approx. 110.00 USD, depending on the season), giving you the opportunity to view these ancient geoglyphs from the sky – a truly unforgettable experience.
- Overnight: Lima
- Transport: private transportation
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 5: Arrive – Cusco
In the morning, we will transfer to the airport and depart for Cuzco. Upon arrival, we will be greeted and transferred to the hotel, where you will have the rest of the day to rest and acclimate to the altitude. For lunch and dinner, our private transport will be available at your disposal, including pick-up and transfer to your hotel, as well as transport to a restaurant of your choice.
Please note that flights to Cuzco are not included in the tour package.
- Overnight: Cuzco
- Transport: Airport transfer to the hotel; private transport available for meals and hotel pick-up
- Meals:Breakfast
Day 6: Explore Cuzco – City Tour
Every alleyway we enter or corner we turn brings another surprise in the form of the superbly constructed Inca walls or the more architecturally extravagant colonial churches and palaces. Cuzco, once the capital of the extensive Inca Empire, has seen many changes since Francisco Pizarro’s men took the city with such apparent ease in November 1533.
In the morning, we will take a guided tour of the city, visiting the Cori Cancha (Temple of the Sun), an important Inca religious site, and the Catedral of Cuzco, a grand example of colonial architecture. We will also visit four Inca ruins located around the city: Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
Additionally, we will visit a local artisan factory where you can observe the traditional methods of crafting Andean textiles and other handmade goods. Finally, we will stop at a llama farm, where you can learn about these animals that are so important to Andean culture and agriculture.
In the afternoon, you may have free time to explore more of Cuzco at your leisure.
- Overnight: Cuzco
- Transport: Private transport
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 7: Sacred Valley: Explore Chinchero, Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo
We leave Cuzco and head to the Chinchero Plateau to explore Chinchero, an important town in Inca times. The most striking remnant of this period is the massive stone wall in the main plaza, which features ten trapezoidal niches. From here, we’ll also enjoy beautiful views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with the Cordillera Urubamba and the snow-capped peak of Salkantay dominating the western horizon. Chinchero is believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow, adding a mystical touch to the visit.
Next, we visit the salt mines of Maras, an ancient salt-producing center dating back to pre-Inca times. Here, over 3000 salt pools are carved into the mountainside, creating a spectacular sight. We then head to Moray, known for its mysterious concentric circular terraces, which some scholars believe served as an agricultural research center for the Inca.
We will enjoy a delicious lunch in the Sacred Valley, where we’ll savor traditional dishes made with locally grown produce. After lunch, we continue our journey to Ollantaytambo, a historic town that was the site of a major battle between the Incas and the Spanish. After exploring Ollantaytambo, we will head to our hotel in the valley.
The rest of the day will be free for you to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this famous valley.
- Overnight: Sacred Valley
- Transport: Private transport
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 8: Journey to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu First Visit
Early in the morning, we begin our journey to Ollantaytambo in our private transport. After a scenic ride, we’ll arrive at the train station where we will board the train to Aguas Calientes. The train journey lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing stunning views of the diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will check in at your hotel. Afterward, we’ll take a 30-minute bus ride with CONSETUR up to Machu Picchu. Once at the site, we’ll embark on a 2.5-hour guided tour to explore the ruins and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient Inca city.
After the tour, we return to Aguas Calientes by bus, where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the town, visit the thermal baths, the butterfly station, or any of the local museums. The day is yours to relax and enjoy the beauty of Aguas Calientes.
In preparation for tomorrow, you can rest and get ready for your second visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
- Overnight: Aguas Calientes
- Transport: Private transport to Ollantaytambo; Train ride to Aguas Calientes; 30-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu
- Meals:Breakfast
Day 9: Machupicchu Tour – Second day exploration and return to Cusco
Today is another unforgettable day as we return to Machu Picchu for a more in-depth exploration of this magnificent city in the cloud forest. You’ll be guided through the history of the Inca people and discover why they built this extraordinary site. There will be time to explore the various areas, including the Sun Gate and the famous Inca Bridge, with plenty of opportunities for photographs and to soak in the breathtaking views.
This second visit will allow you to experience more of the magic of Machu Picchu at your own pace, truly understanding its significance and beauty.
Optional Activity: For those who have purchased tickets in advance, you may also have the opportunity to hike Huayna Picchu after the tour. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours to the summit, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Machu Picchu complex and the surrounding landscapes. The descent takes about 1 hour. Please note that Huayna Picchu tickets are limited and must be booked in advance, so it’s highly recommended to reserve your spot early. This activity is optional and not included in the package price.
After our time at Machu Picchu, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Afterward, we will check out of the hotel and head to the train station to catch the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transport will be waiting to take us to Cusco, where we will head to our hotel to rest after an incredible day.
- Overnight: Cusco
- Meals:Breakfast
Day 10: Freed Day
Today is a free day to relax and unwind in the beautiful city of Cusco. Whether you choose to take it easy and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere or explore more of the city, the day is yours. Our private transport will be available at your disposal for any needs, whether it’s to take you to lunch, dinner, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city and its stunning surroundings.
Enjoy this free day to experience Cusco at your own pace, rest, and recharge for the days ahead.
Overnight: Cusco
Meals:Breakfast
Day 11: South Valley – Route of the Sun
Today’s tour takes us through the Valle Sur, also known as the Ruta del Sol, where we will explore the magnificent site of Tipon, home to impressive water aqueducts. These well-preserved ruins showcase one of the most advanced hydraulic systems of the 15th century, all built by the Incas. Located just 30 minutes from Cusco, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Inca engineering and water management.
After exploring Tipon, we will visit Pikillacta, an ancient Wari site known for its expansive and well-preserved ruins. The Wari civilization predated the Incas and played a key role in shaping the region’s history.
Next, we will head to Andahuaylillas, a charming town famous for its beautiful colonial church, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” due to its stunning frescoes and artwork.
A group ceremony will be held at Tipon to honor the sacredness of the sites before we return to Cusco.
- Overnight: Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
Day 12: Raqchi Tour
Today, we embark on a tour to Raqchi, a beautiful archaeological site located approximately 3 hours from Cusco. This site is home to the largest temple of Inca times, dedicated to Wiracocha, the invisible god in Andean belief. The temple is a magnificent example of Inca architecture and a testament to their religious and cultural heritage.
After exploring Raqchi and learning about its history, we will return to Cusco.
- Overnight: Cusco
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
Day 13: Quillarumiyoc experience and Pachamanca
Today, we embark on a 3-hour bus ride from Cusco to the Hot Springs and Quillarumiyoc. Quillarumiyoc is an important archaeological site, known for its enigmatic stone structures and its ties to Inca religious practices. Upon arrival, we will have a guided tour of the site, where we will learn about its historical and cultural significance.
As part of the experience, we will participate in a special Ritual of Limpia, a cleansing ceremony led by our Andean priest. This ritual is an ancient practice in Andean culture meant to purify and balance the body, mind, and spirit. It involves the use of sacred herbs and offerings to Pachamama, the Earth Mother, to ask for blessings and protection. The ceremony is a profound connection to the spiritual traditions of the Inca civilization.
For lunch, we will indulge in a traditional Pachamanca, an ancient cooking method in which food is prepared by heating stones in an underground pit. You will be part of the process, from preparing the ingredients to witnessing the cooking technique, culminating in a delicious and authentic meal, showcasing the flavors of the Andean region.
After the tour and ritual, we will return to Cusco.
- Overnight: Cusco
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch (Pachamanca)
Day 14: Transfer out – End of the service
On the final day of your journey, we will check out of the hotels and transfer you to the airports for your departure. Whether you are heading home or continuing your travels, we hope you carry with you unforgettable memories from your time exploring the heart of the Andes.
Meals: Breakfast
Includes
- Accommodation: Stay in 3-star hotels or other options based on your preference.
- Train Tickets: Roundtrip train tickets to and from Machu Picchu.
- Bus Tickets: Roundtrip bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu.
- Ground Transportation: Private ground transportation for the entire duration of the tour.
- Guided Tours: Professional guide services for the entire trip, providing insightful explanations at all key attractions.
- Sacred Valley Tourist Ticket: Includes the necessary tourist ticket to visit the Sacred Valley’s major attractions.
- Entrance Fees: All necessary entrance fees to the listed attractions and sites throughout the tour.
- Meals: Breakfast at all hotels included in the tour itinerary.
- Cultural Ceremonies: Participation in traditional Andean ceremonies, including rituals led by an Andean priest.
What’s Not included
- Flights: International and domestic flights, including taxes, are not included in the tour price.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory and not included in the tour cost.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and other service staff are not included and are at your discretion.
- Optional Activities: Optional activities, such as the Huayna Picchu hike or flight over the Nazca Lines, are not included.
Packing List
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime
- Warm layers for cooler evenings and higher altitudes
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Swimsuit (for hot springs or hotel pools)
Essential Items
- Passport and photocopies of your passport
- Personal identification and travel insurance information
- Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack or daypack for daily excursions
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Personal medications and a small first-aid kit
Toiletries & Personal Items
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene products
- Tissues or wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Mosquito repellent (if traveling during rainy season)
- Travel-size laundry detergent for washing clothes in hotel rooms
Optional Items
- Travel pillow for long bus/train rides
- Insect repellent (for jungle regions or low-altitude areas)
- Extra memory cards for your camera
- Small snacks or energy bars for hikes
Note: Keep in mind that the weather can vary throughout the tour, so be prepared for both warm and cool conditions, especially when visiting high-altitude areas.
Location for: 14 Day Peru Mistic Expeditions
Travel Information
Additional Costs: Optional activities like the Huayna Picchu hike and the flight over the Nazca Lines are available at an additional cost. These activities should be booked in advance to ensure availability.
Accommodation: Comfortable 3-4 star hotels throughout the tour. Accommodation will be in central locations for easy access to key attractions.
Meals: Meals are included as specified in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). In some locations, you will have the opportunity to try traditional dishes, including a Pachamanca feast.
Transport: Private transport will be provided for the entire duration of the tour, including buses, trains, and vans for airport transfers, as well as day-to-day exploration. Train journeys, such as those to Aguas Calientes, offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Flight Information: Domestic flights from Lima to Cusco are not included in the tour price but can be arranged upon request.
Health & Safety: The tour involves a considerable amount of walking and some altitude. It is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco and take necessary precautions for altitude sickness. Bring any personal medications with you.
Weather: The weather can vary depending on the season. It is advisable to bring clothing for both warm and cooler conditions. The dry season (May to October) is generally the best time to travel.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May–October) offers the clearest conditions for the Nazca Lines flight and the most stable weather in the Andes, though it's also peak season with higher prices and larger crowds at Machu Picchu. The wet season (November–April) brings lush green landscapes to the Sacred Valley and fewer tourists, but increases the chance of rain during outdoor ceremonies and treks.
Altitude & Acclimatization Strategy
Because Cusco sits above 3,300m, altitude sickness (soroche) is a real consideration. This itinerary mitigates risk by visiting low-altitude coastal destinations first, then dedicating Day 5 entirely to rest upon arrival in Cusco. Drinking coca tea, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol on the first day are commonly recommended local practices.
Flights Not Included — Planning Tips
Domestic flights from Lima to Cusco run frequently (roughly 1h15m) but sell out quickly during high season. Booking 2–3 months in advance typically secures better fares and more convenient morning departure times, which help maximize acclimatization time on Day 5.
Train Journeys to Machu Picchu
The train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes takes approximately 90 minutes and runs along the Urubamba River, passing through changing ecosystems from highland valley to cloud forest. Several service classes exist (Expedition, Vistadome), so it's worth confirming which class is included in your package.
Optional Huayna Picchu Hike
Only 400 permits per day are issued for this hike, split into two entry groups. Because of high demand, especially in dry season, this should be reserved at the same time as your Machu Picchu entrance ticket — ideally 2–4 months in advance.
Optional Nazca Lines Flight
Small aircraft flights (30–35 minutes) offer aerial views of geoglyphs like the Hummingbird, Monkey, and Spider. Some travelers experience motion sickness due to the sharp turns required to view figures from both sides of the plane — an early breakfast or fasting beforehand is commonly advised.
Packing by Climate Zone
Given the three climate zones covered, a modular packing strategy works best: lightweight breathable clothing for the coast, warm insulating layers for Andean nights, and quick-dry gear for the humid cloud forest around Machu Picchu. A reusable water bottle and sun protection are essential across all three zones.
Currency, Payments & Tipping Culture
The Peruvian Sol (PEN) is used nationwide; while USD is accepted in tourist zones, exchange rates are less favorable than using local currency. Tipping guides, drivers, and porters is customary and expected, though not included in the tour price — a general guideline is USD 5–10 per day for guides in group settings.
Travel Insurance Requirement
Given the altitude, remote sites, and physical activity involved, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation is mandatory, not optional, for this itinerary.
Group Dynamics & Travel Style
With a minimum group size of 2, this tour balances the social energy of group travel with a more intimate, ceremony-focused experience than large-scale mainstream tours — particularly relevant during spiritual segments like the Limpia ceremony, which are more meaningful in smaller settings.
Frecuendly asked questions
The trip is rated moderate: daily walking tours (2–4 hours), some uneven terrain at archaeological sites, and altitude exposure in Cusco, but no technical trekking or climbing skills are required, making it accessible to most reasonably fit travelers, including first-time visitors to high altitude.
A single visit typically means a rushed 2-hour circuit under time pressure. Splitting the visit across two days allows travelers to see the site in different lighting (sunset vs. morning), explore extended areas like the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge, and optionally add the Huayna Picchu hike — all without compromising the pace of the main tour.
The Limpia is a traditional Andean cleansing ritual performed by a local Andean priest (paqo) at the sacred site of Quillarumiyoc, using herbs, offerings, and prayers directed to Pachamama (Mother Earth). It is a genuine cultural practice, not a staged tourist performance, and travelers are invited to participate respectfully as observers or active participants.
For most travelers, yes — the geoglyphs are nearly impossible to interpret from the ground, so the aerial perspective is essential to appreciating the figures. The main consideration is motion sickness from the plane’s sharp banking turns; travelers prone to airsickness may want to take precautions or consider ground-level viewpoints instead.
Pachamanca is a pre-Hispanic cooking method where meats, potatoes, and corn are wrapped and buried with heated volcanic stones underground. On Day 13, travelers don’t just eat the meal — they participate in preparing ingredients and witnessing the traditional cooking process, making it an interactive cultural experience rather than a simple lunch stop.
No. The ceremonies are presented as cultural and educational experiences rooted in Andean cosmovision, open to travelers of any background or belief system. Participation is always respectful and optional — you can observe without actively taking part if you prefer.
Beyond general hydration advice, specific strategies include: avoiding heavy meals and alcohol on arrival day, sleeping earlier than usual the first night in Cusco, drinking coca tea (a traditional remedy), and considering altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor beforehand) if you have a history of susceptibility.
Most included meals, including the Pachamanca, can typically be adapted for common dietary restrictions if communicated in advance to the tour operator, though travelers with strict or complex needs should confirm specifics directly before booking.
Since permits are limited and sell out months in advance during high season, missing this add-on doesn’t significantly diminish the experience — the two full days at Machu Picchu already provide extensive access to the Sun Gate, Inca Bridge, and main archaeological complex.
Yes, Peru Andes Discovery offers tailor-made adjustments to group size, pacing, and accommodation level; travelers interested in a private departure or a specific occasion (such as a spiritual retreat focus) should contact the team directly to customize the itinerary.
