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Peru's Heritage:
14 Days - Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Paracas and Nazca

Arrival in Lima

DAY 1

Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a Luxe Andes Peru representative, who will assist with VIP transfer to your luxury hotel in the exclusive Miraflores district. Once at the hotel, you’ll receive all necessary information for your exhaustive tour through Peru’s most emblematic heritage sites and personalized assistance with the check-in process. Use this day to acclimatize and enjoy your boutique hotel’s amenities. If your arrival is early, we recommend exploring the vibrant Miraflores district, visiting the romantic Love Park with its spectacular Pacific Ocean views, or enjoying a welcome dinner at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants. This first night is fundamental for rest before beginning your odyssey through natural and cultural treasures combining coast, highlands, and mysteries of ancient Peru.

Bus to Paracas

DAY 2

After breakfast, begin your coastal adventure with overland transfer to Paracas, crossing Peruvian coastal desert and enjoying unique landscapes changing from Lima’s modernity to southern coast desert landscapes. The approximately 3.5-hour journey includes panoramic stops and opportunity to observe ecosystem transitions from urban to desert. Arrival in Paracas and accommodation at your oceanfront hotel, from where you can contemplate Pacific waters and desert peninsula. The rest of the day will be free to acclimatize to coastal climate, explore local fishing port, walk on characteristic reddish sand beaches of the region, or simply relax at your hotel facilities while enjoying sea breeze. The afternoon includes time to prepare for the coming days’ marine and desert adventures, with dinner featuring fresh regional marine specialties.

Ballestas Islands - Buggies and Sandboarding

DAY 3

Early morning, board a boat to spectacular Ballestas Islands, known as “Peruvian Galápagos” for their extraordinary marine life diversity. During navigation, observe the enigmatic Candelabra, a giant geoglyph carved into peninsula slopes, whose origin and meaning remain one of Peruvian archaeology’s mysteries. At Ballestas Islands, observe massive colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds in their natural habitat, while learning about Paracas National Reserve’s ecological importance. After return and lunch, adventure continues with exciting buggy excursion through Paracas desert dunes, where you’ll experience sandboarding adrenaline sliding down golden dunes while contemplating panoramic desert views extending to the horizon. The afternoon includes time for relaxation and photography in this surrealistic landscape where desert meets ocean.

Nazca Lines Overflight

DAY 4

This day will be dedicated to one of Peru’s most mystical and enigmatic experiences: overflight of world-famous Nazca Lines. Early morning transfer to Pisco airfield to board private aircraft taking you over these extraordinary geometric and zoomorphic figures created by Nazca culture over 1,500 years ago. During the approximately 1.5-hour flight, observe from the air the most emblematic figures: hummingbird, monkey, spider, condor, straight lines extending for kilometers, and other geoglyphs whose purpose and construction method continue being one of world archaeology’s great mysteries. Your pilot and specialized guide will provide detailed information about existing theories and cultural importance of these unique artistic manifestations. After overflight, return to Paracas for lunch and free afternoon to process this unique experience, with options to explore more desert or relax at your hotel.

Bus to Lima

DAY 5

After breakfast, begin return to Lima, once again enjoying changing coastal landscapes during the return journey. The trip includes strategic stops for photography and stretching, allowing appreciation once more of Peruvian coastal desert beauty and transition toward the capital. Arrival in Lima and accommodation at your hotel in Miraflores, where you’ll have the afternoon free for relaxation activities after days of coastal adventure. You may choose to explore districts you didn’t visit on arrival, enjoy spa treatments, shop at modern malls, or simply rest at hotel facilities. The evening includes a special coast farewell dinner before your transition to the Andes, with time to pack and prepare for climate and altitude changes you’ll experience in Cusco.

Flight to Cusco

DAY 6

Early morning transfer to airport for your flight to Cusco, experiencing dramatic transition from sea level to 3,400 meters altitude of the ancient Inca Empire capital. Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you’ll be welcomed by your specialized guide who will offer comforting coca tea to facilitate altitude acclimatization. Transfer to your luxury hotel in Cusco’s historic center, where you’ll have the rest of the day free to gradually acclimatize. We recommend resting, adequate hydration, and avoiding intense physical efforts during first hours at altitude. If you feel comfortable, take a very light walk through historic center’s cobblestone streets to begin familiarizing yourself with colonial and Inca architecture, but always maintaining leisurely pace. The afternoon includes orientation about acclimatization and preparation for Andean adventures awaiting you.

Cusco City Tour

DAY 7

After an acclimatization night, begin complete exploration of Cusco, America’s archaeological capital and gateway to Sacred Valley. Start with historic center tour, visiting imposing Cathedral built on Inca foundations, fascinating Qorikancha (Sun Temple) demonstrating Inca architectural sophistication, and colorful San Blas artisan neighborhood with traditional workshops and steep streets. Continue to archaeological sites surrounding Cusco: impressive Sacsayhuamán fortress with enormous perfectly assembled stone blocks, Qenqo with enigmatic ceremonial channels carved in living rock, Puka Pukará (“Red Fortress”), and Tambomachay, known as “Inca’s bath” for its sophisticated water channels. This exploration will provide historical, architectural and cultural context necessary to fully appreciate Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu wonders. The afternoon includes free time to explore local markets, acquire authentic handicrafts, and continue gradual acclimatization.

Sacred Valley - Pisaq Ruins, Pisaq Market, Ollantaytambo - Hotel in Urubamba

DAY 8

Early morning, head to Sacred Valley, descending to more comfortable altitude (2,874 meters) to continue acclimatization while exploring one of the most fertile and sacred Andean valleys. Begin visiting impressive Pisaq ruins, a ceremonial and military complex crowning a mountain with perfectly preserved agricultural terraces and spectacular panoramic views of winding valley. After archaeological exploration, descend to vibrant Pisaq market, considered one of Sacred Valley’s most authentic artisan markets, where you can interact with local communities and acquire traditional textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry and handicrafts made with ancestral techniques. After buffet lunch with valley organic products, continue to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town, where you’ll explore its imposing fortress and walk through original cobblestone streets maintaining Inca urban layout. At day’s end, settle into your boutique hotel in Urubamba, strategically located in Sacred Valley’s heart.

Inca Trail - 2 Days (Day 1)

DAY 9

The Inca Trail Short Trek adventure begins! Very early morning pickup from your hotel for transfer to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board train to km 104, starting point of classic 2-day Inca Trail. After documentation and permit controls, begin your hike accompanied by Inca Trail specialist guides and professional porters. The first day covers approximately 10 kilometers with moderate hiking including visit to Chachabamba, an excellently preserved Inca archaeological site. Continue on original Inca trails with spectacular views of Urubamba River and surrounding mountains, until reaching Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), one of the Inca Trail’s most impressive archaeological complexes, with perfectly preserved terraces and sophisticated architecture. Your camp will be located near Sun Gate, positioning you strategically for sunrise at Machu Picchu. The afternoon includes energetic box lunch, transfer to selected hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

DAY 10

The most anticipated day! Rise before dawn to walk to Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and experience the magical moment when first sun rays illuminate Machu Picchu from your privileged position. This view, reserved only for those completing the Inca Trail, is truly transformative and emotional, crowning days of effort with incomparable reward. After this unique moment, descend to citadel for complete 2-3 hour exploration with your specialized guide, who will reveal architectural, astronomical and ceremonial secrets of this world wonder. Explore Temple of the Sun, Royal Residence, Intihuatana, Temple of the Three Windows, and other ceremonial sectors while learning about fascinating history of this archaeological jewel. After tour, descend to Aguas Calientes for celebration lunch. In afternoon, board Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train back to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll be welcomed by your private driver for transfer to Cusco. Arrival and accommodation at your hotel, where you can reflect on your extraordinary achievement.

Free Day in Cusco

DAY 11

After completing Inca Trail challenge, this free day is essential for physical and emotional recovery. You may choose to relax completely at your hotel, enjoying spa treatments, relaxing massages specific for post-trekking recovery, or simply resting in your luxury accommodation’s amenities. Alternatively, explore Cusco at your own pace, visiting museums like Pre-Columbian Art Museum, Qorikancha Museum, or making conscious purchases in San Blas neighborhood and artisan markets. You may also choose light activities like visits to traditional textile workshops, Peruvian chocolate and coffee tastings, photography sessions in historic center, or simply sitting in Main Square observing local life. This day is fundamental for processing lived experience and physically and mentally preparing for your final Andean adventure.

Humantay

DAY 12

Your Andean adventure culminates with visit to spectacular Humantay Lagoon, one of Cusco Andes’ most impressive natural jewels and perfect complement to your Peruvian heritage experience. After early breakfast, begin journey to Mollepata (approximately 3 hours), enjoying changing Andean landscapes and views of imposing Salkantay snow-capped peak. From Soraypampa (3,900m), begin approximately 1.5-hour hike to Humantay Lagoon (4,200m), a turquoise water mirror nestled between snow-capped mountains offering one of most photographed views of Peruvian Andes. This hike, though challenging due to altitude, is very rewarding and serves as perfect culmination for your Peru natural heritage experience. After time for contemplation, photography and spiritual connection with this sacred landscape, enjoy picnic lunch with lagoon and surrounding mountain views. Return to Cusco in afternoon, with time for special celebration dinner.

Free Day in Cusco

DAY 13

This second free day allows you to choose perfect pace for concluding your Peruvian experience. You may opt for total relaxation activities, taking advantage of spa treatments incorporating traditional Andean techniques, or make deeper explorations of Cusco aspects that most interested you during your stay. Optional activities include: visits to nearby archaeological sites like Pikillacta or Tipón, short excursions to traditional towns like Maras or Chinchero, ceramics or textile workshops, gastronomic tastings in local markets, or simply time for final shopping and personal reflection. You may also choose cultural activities like folkloric dance presentations, Andean music concerts, or visits to contemporary Cusco art galleries. This flexibility allows you to personalize your adventure’s closure according to your preferences and energy.

Transfer to Airport

DAY 14

After final breakfast at your hotel, dedicate time to reflection and integration of all experiences lived during your Peru heritage tour. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have free time for closing activities like final purchases of handicrafts representing each visited region (coast, highlands), final visits to sites that most impacted you, or simply moments of gratitude in significant places. Your Luxe Andes Peru representative will accompany you to Cusco airport for your return flight, ensuring your departure is as comfortable as your arrival. We bid farewell with certainty that you carry indelible memories of integral experience combining coast mysteries (Nazca Lines, Ballestas Islands), Andean grandeur (Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu), and natural adventures (Humantay), living Peru’s most representative heritage in complete and transformative odyssey.

What’s Included

  • Personalized VIP airport assistance and throughout your stay with dedicated representative.
  • Accommodation in carefully selected luxury hotels: boutique hotel in Miraflores (Lima), oceanfront hotel in Paracas, luxury hotel in Cusco’s historic center, boutique hotel in Urubamba (Sacred Valley), and luxury camping during Inca Trail.
  • Premium overland transportation Lima-Paracas-Lima in luxury vehicles with professional driver.
  • Domestic flight Lima-Cusco.
  • Private transportation throughout itinerary in Cusco and Sacred Valley.
  • Private boat for Ballestas Islands tour.
  • Nazca Lines overflight in private aircraft with specialized pilot.
  • 2-day/1-night short Inca Trail with exclusive permits and professional camping equipment.
  • Complete Inca Trail equipment: certified guides, first aid kit.
  • Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Desert adventure: buggy excursion and sandboarding in Paracas dunes.
  • Complete entrance tickets and permits: Paracas National Reserve, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Cusco and Sacred Valley archaeological sites, and Humantay Lagoon.
  • Specialized bilingual private guides for each region and activity.
  • Daily breakfasts at all hotels.
  • Lunches included: Sacred Valley (day 8), Humantay Lagoon (day 12), and box lunch during Inca Trail (day 9).
  • 24/7 support with direct emergency line.
  • Adventure kit with detailed information from each region, maps, and local gifts.

 

What’s Not Included

  • International flights to and from Peru.
  • Domestic flight from Cusco to Lima (quotation available upon request).
  • Specialized travel insurance (mandatory for adventure activities, trekking and overflights).
  • Tips for guides, drivers, Inca Trail porters, pilots, and service staff (we suggest 15-20% of total cost).
  • Lunches and dinners not specified in itinerary.
  • Alcoholic beverages during included meals and at hotels.
  • Optional activities such as Huayna Picchu ascent, additional Paracas tours, extra activities on free days, or spa treatments.
  • Personal expenses including shopping, extra hotel services, phone calls, laundry, and additional tips.
  • Personal trekking equipment: mountain boots, technical clothing, personal backpack.
  • Altitude sickness prevention medication and motion sickness medication during overflight.
  • Specific insurance for aerial and marine adventure activities.

 

Essential Recommendations

  1. Extreme Climate Diversity: This itinerary combines coastal desert, maritime, and high mountain Andean climates. Pack clothing for temperatures of 15-25°C on coast and 0-20°C in Andes. Include SPF 50+ sun protection for all regions.
  2. Overflight Preparation: Nazca flight may cause motion sickness due to maneuvers necessary to observe lines. Avoid heavy meals before flight, carry motion sickness medication, and maintain hydration. People with heart problems should consult doctors.
  3. Dramatic Altitude Transition: You’ll go from sea level in Paracas to 3,400m in Cusco and up to 4,200m in Humantay. Gradual acclimatization is planned, but consult about preventive altitude sickness medications.
  4. Physical Preparation for Inca Trail: Though short version, Inca Trail requires good physical condition. Train with 4-6 hour hikes, leg strengthening, and cardiovascular exercises at least 6 weeks before.
  5. Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Acquire coverage including adventure activities (buggies, sandboarding), overflights, mountain trekking, maritime activities, altitude medical emergencies, and evacuation from remote areas.
  6. Versatile Equipment: You’ll need closed shoes for desert adventures, trekking boots for Inca Trail, swimwear for coastal activities, and thermal clothing for altitudes. Detailed list will be provided.
  7. Critical Advance Reservations: Inca Trail has limited permits, and Nazca overflights depend on weather conditions. Book 4-6 months in advance. Weather cancellations in Nazca include rescheduling.
  8. Extreme Sun Protection: Both coastal desert and Andean altitude require intense sun protection. Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and UV protection clothing. Sand and snow reflection amplifies radiation.
  9. Constant Hydration: Maintain high hydration in coastal desert and increase even more at altitude. Avoid alcohol during Cusco acclimatization and days before intense physical activities.
  10. Inca Trail Documentation: Carry original passport (same used in booking), student card if applicable, and insurance documents. Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.
  11. Weather Flexibility: Activities like Nazca overflight, Ballestas Islands, and Inca Trail may be affected by weather conditions. Maintain date flexibility and trust operators’ safety decisions.
  12. Maritime Adventure Preparation: Ballestas Islands tour may present waves and winds. If prone to seasickness, carry preventive medications. Use waterproof clothing and non-slip shoes.
  13. Heritage Respect: You’ll visit world heritage sites (Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines) and natural reserves. Strictly follow conservation regulations, don’t touch geoglyphs from air, and maintain distance from marine wildlife.
  14. Variable Communication: Connectivity is limited in Paracas, during Inca Trail, and at Humantay. Inform family about limited communication periods and trust local team’s 24/7 support.
  15. Experience Integration: This itinerary offers extreme contrasts from archaeological mysteries to natural adventures. Keep a journal to process experience diversity and facilitate post-trip integration.