10 Days: Cusco – Machu Picchu – Puno – Lima

Today, upon your arrival in the charming city of Cusco, we extend a warm welcome to you. After assisting with your hotel check-in, we suggest taking some time to rest and recover, adapting to your arrival schedule. Recognizing the importance of flexibility in your experience, our transport vehicles are at your disposal throughout the day. Whether you wish to explore the city's charming corners, indulge in some local shopping, or simply immerse yourself in Cusco's unique atmosphere, we are here to customize your stay and ensure that every moment is unforgettable. Welcome to this destination filled with history and charm!

Meals: Not Included

Embark on a hassle-free adventure through the city of Cusco, starting with a pickup from your hotel at 8:30 a.m. This is a shared tour, making it an excellent way to explore the city alongside fellow travelers. Our day of discovery begins with excitement as we gather for a city tour. Our first stop is the magnificent Cusco Cathedral, the city's main Christian temple, adorned with paintings from the Cusqueña School. Continuing our journey, we head to the Qorikancha Temple (entrance fee not included), where our guide will share fascinating details about the tongue-and-groove construction technique. You will also have some free time here to capture memorable photographs.

Next, immerse yourself in history as we explore the archaeological sites of Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, and Sacsayhuamán. At the latter, we will stop for 30 minutes to learn more about its construction and take the opportunity to capture the beauty of the sunset among the ruins.

We will end our day by visiting Qenqo before returning to Cusco, concluding our tour and dropping you off at your hotel for a well-deserved rest to gear up for the next day's adventure.

Meals: Not Included

Get ready for a fascinating journey from Cusco to Chinchero. Here, you’ll admire the impressive stone wall in the main square and take in breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, framed by the Urubamba mountain range and Mount Salkantay. Fun fact: Chinchero is known as the mythical birthplace of the rainbow, and its history is just as colorful.

Next up, the Maras Salt Mines. You’ll see over 3,000 salt pans sculpted directly into the mountainside. Right after, we’ll explore the enigmatic circular terraces of Moray, believed to have been an ancient Inca agricultural research center.

Following a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, our history fix continues at the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. To wrap up the day, we’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, where you'll spend the night and get plenty of rest for tomorrow’s big highlight: Machu Picchu.

Meals: Lunch included.

Get ready for a day packed with adventure! We’ll greet the day with the rising sun, making an early ascent to the summit of Huayna Picchu. This climb takes about 1.5 hours, giving us around 40 minutes to soak in the views at the peak before a 1-hour descent. Afterward, we’ll dive into the heart of the Machu Picchu citadel for a 2-hour guided tour, uncovering the mysteries of this world wonder.

As the afternoon winds down, we’ll head back to the cozy comfort of our hotel in Aguas Calientes. But wait—the day isn't over yet! We’ll visit the famous local hot springs to unwind, enjoy the soothing waters, and sip on delicious drinks like a lively Pisco Sour or a refreshing Machu Picchu cocktail. 😉 After this relaxing break, we’ll catch the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting at the station to drive us back to our hotel in Cusco, keeping the adventure going.

📌 Please Note:

The Huayna Picchu climb is optional and not included in the initial quote. It must be booked at least 3 months in advance to guarantee entry.

The main route is subject to availability.

Meals: Not included.

At 5:00 a.m., we will kick off our Rainbow Mountain tour with a pickup from your hotel. Heading southeast from Cusco, we will make stops along the way in Andahuaylillas and Checacupe, pausing in Cusipata for a delicious breakfast before continuing past Pitumarca. From there, our transport takes us up to Kayrawiri ($4,430\text{ meters above sea level}$), the official starting point of our trek.

The hike to the Rainbow Mountain takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Along the trail, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and the Vilcanota mountain range, with plenty of chances to spot native South American camelids like llamas and alpacas. Once at the summit, you will be rewarded with the awe-inspiring, vibrant landscape of Vinicunca.

After exploring the mountain, we will descend for about 1 hour and 20 minutes back to Kayrawiri. From there, we catch our transport back to Cusipata for lunch, followed by a 2-hour drive back to Cusco, arriving around 2:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Start early from Cusco in your exclusive private transport, traveling toward Puno across the Collao Altiplano. Throughout this unique expedition, we will explore charming villages, historic churches, and iconic sites such as Andahuaylillas, Raqch'i, Sicuani, Abra La Raya.

These strategic stops will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the region's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. To wrap up the day, we will arrive in Puno at approximately 5:00 p.m. for your overnight stay, getting you ready for tomorrow's adventure on the islands of Lake Titicaca.

Meals: Lunch on the route

Set off on an exciting journey across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Titicaca toward the culturally rich island of Taquile. Renowned for its traditional textiles, Taquile reveals a deep narrative of customs and history. Stroll along ancient stone pathways, interact with the locals, and absorb the island's living heritage, where every woven fabric tells a story of centuries-old traditions. A delicious lunch prepared by the local communities adds a culinary dimension to this cultural experience, offering an authentic taste of the region's diverse flavors.

Next, our voyage takes us to the iconic Uros Floating Islands, famous for their platforms crafted entirely from totora reeds. Immerse yourself in the distinctive lifestyle of the Uros people, discovering the ingenious methods behind building and maintaining these unique islands. Chat with the residents, learn about their enduring traditions, and witness the harmonious bond between humanity and nature.

To wrap up the day, a relaxing boat ride back to Puno completes an unforgettable experience filled with cultural discoveries, culinary delights, and the enchanting allure of Lake Titicaca.

Meals: Breakfast included.

To ensure a seamless departure, one of our representatives will pick you up directly from your hotel and transfer you to the Juliaca airport in time for your return flight to Lima.

Upon arriving in Lima, you have the option to take a relaxing evening tour of the famous Magic Water Circuit. This enchanting excursion offers a magical night experience at the Parque de las Aguas, one of the largest fountain complexes in the world. Here, you can admire a series of spectacular fountains—including the Magic Fountain and the Fantasy Fountain—all brilliantly illuminated and choreographed to the rhythm of music and lights.

The tour provides a wonderful opportunity to unwind and soak in the park’s festive, vibrant atmosphere while enjoying an unforgettable spectacle of water and light. Afterward, we will drop you off at your hotel so you can rest and relax, or you can choose to keep exploring the vibrant city of Lima on your own.

Meals: Not included.

After a restful night in Lima, get ready for a full day exploring the city's highlights. Start your morning with a visit to the Larco Museum, where you can immerse yourself in Peru's rich pre-Columbian history and art. Discover fascinating exhibitions and enjoy the stunning surrounding gardens before heading over to your next stop.

Next up is the San Francisco Convent, where you will explore the underground catacombs that house historic skeletal remains, and admire the breathtaking colonial architecture. Take in the intricate sacred artwork and stroll through the historic plazas surrounding the convent.

Following a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, continue your day by exploring Lima's colonial plazas, such as Plaza Mayor and Plaza San Martín. Soak up the architectural charm of the colonial buildings and dive into the city's lively atmosphere.

To wrap up the day, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the vibrant district of Miraflores. Here, you can take in the ocean views from the boardwalk (el malecón), visit the romantic Parque del Amor (Love Park), and check out the local markets for some shopping.

This comprehensive itinerary offers the perfect opportunity to experience Lima's cultural, historical, and modern wealth, with a special highlight on the fascinating catacombs of the San Francisco Convent.

Meals: Not included.

Here is a warm, polished, and heartfelt translation to perfectly close your itinerary:

Today, after you have packed your bags and enjoyed a delicious breakfast, we will be waiting and ready to provide transport from your hotel to the airport, ensuring you arrive comfortably and on time for your international flight back home. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are confident that you will carry with you not only unforgettable memories but also the unique spirit of this diverse and captivating country.

On behalf of the entire Peru Andes Discovery team, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for allowing us to be a part of your extraordinary adventure in Peru. We wish you a safe journey home and look forward to the pleasure of welcoming you back for future explorations with Peru Andes Discovery. Until then, safe travels!

Meals: Not included.