Lima to Cuzco
Trip Details
Journey through the soaring Inca heartland, from the beaches of Lima to the streets of Cuzco, high in the Andes. Unlock the secrets of the many mystic sights as you explore the streets of Arequipa, hike along historic Inca pathways, explore the wildlife-studded Ballestas Islands and ramble over the ruins of Machu Picchu. From the colonial sights of Lima to the mighty Inca history in Cuzco, journey through the heart of Peru and discover the highlights of this fascinating country along the way.
Itinerary
Day 1 Lima
Get acquainted with Peru's modern capital. There's plenty to see in bustling Lima, from colonial mansions to vibrant plazas, fine museums and ornate churches.
Day 2 Paracas/Ballestas Islands/Huacachina
Pitch a tent in Paracas, which spans over 335,000 hectares and is one of the world's most important marine reserves. Take a walk along the coastline and spot the vibrant birdlife this region is famous for.
Day 3 Ballestas Islands/Nazca
Spot penguins, sea lions and boobies during a boat ride through the Ballestas Islands. Learn about the mysterious Nazca Lines and perhaps take an overhead flight to fully appreciate the scale of this puzzling creation.
Day 4 Puerto Inca
The windswept graves at the Chauchilla Cemetery display the eerie skeletons and mummified bodies of the Nazca people, some of which date from 1,000 AD. Camp overnight near Puerto Inca.
Days 5-6 Arequipa
Explore this scenic city and perhaps stop by the Museo Santury to view Juanita, the ice princess. The body of this frozen Inca maiden is thought to be more than 500 years old, and was found at a sacrificial site on the summit of Nevado Ampato.
Days 7-8 Chivay/Colca Canyon
Try to spot the mighty Andean condors as they silently take to the sky thousands of metres above the floor of the breathtaking Colca Canyon.
Day 9 Raqchi Homestay
Get to know a local family as guests at a homestay in Raqchi. Spend the evening huddled around a crackling fire, sharing a meal, and discovering traditional song and dance.
Days 10-11 Cuzco
Wander through cobblestone streets lined with massive Inca stone walls and Spanish-colonial architecture. Perhaps enjoy a traditional dance performance or sign up for one of the many adventure activities on offer here, including horse riding and whitewater rafting.
Days 12-15 Quechua Community Trek/Classic Inca Trail
Follow the footsteps of the Incas on an alternative Inca trail through the Andes. Walk along winding mountain paths, pass herds of grazing llamas and climb through the snow-capped Cordillera Urubamba mountains. Meet local Quechua communities during the four-day hike, before descending into the Sacred Valley to explore the massive Inca fortress at Ollantaytambo.
Day 16 Machu Picchu/Cuzco
Explore the crumbling ruins of Machu Picchu, the 'lost Inca city'. Brave the steep climb to the top of Wayna Picchu for a breathtaking overhead vista or find a spot near the Sun Gate to sit back and soak up the magical atmosphere.
Day 17 Cuzco
Enjoy a last night in scenic Cuzco, perhaps celebrating this epic adventure over a drink in the atmospheric San Blas neighbourhood.