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3 days
Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
Embark on a comprehensive 12-Day Classic Peru Tour, starting in Lima, the gastronomic capital, where colonial heritage meets modern flair. The adventure immediately heads south to the coast, offering a wildlife excursion to the Ballestas Islands (the "mini-Galápagos") for sea lions and penguins. The tour features an unmissable optional Nazca Lines flight, soaring above the mysterious geoglyphs etched into the desert floor. The journey transitions via flight to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, where time is dedicated to acclimatization and exploring the city’s heart, including the sacred Qorikancha and the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuamán.
The middle section of the tour focuses on the profound legacy of the Incas. A full-day excursion explores the fertile Sacred Valley, visiting the major sites of Pisac and the preserved living town and fortress of Ollantaytambo. The pinnacle of the trip is the visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. You will enjoy a guided tour to uncover the secrets of the citadel’s temples and terraces, followed by a free morning for an optional second visit (or optional hike to Huayna Picchu), allowing you to fully absorb the site's unique atmosphere before returning to Cusco.
The final leg of the tour takes you on the scenic Route of the Sun (Ruta del Sol) from Cusco to Puno, stopping at the Sistine Chapel of the Andes (Andahuaylillas) and the Inca temple of Raqchi. In Puno, explore Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. You will visit the unique floating reed islands of the Uros people and continue to Taquile Island, famed for its UNESCO-listed textile art and community life. This 12-day circuit masterfully unlocks the mysteries of Peru, combining desert geoglyphs, monumental Inca ruins, and the sacred landscapes of the Titicaca, readying you for your return flight from Juliaca.
Itinerary Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima
Your Peruvian adventure begins in Lima, a dynamic capital where colonial heritage meets modern flair. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the Miraflores district. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a guided evening walk along the Pacific coastline or a taste of Peruvian cuisine, famous worldwide for its creativity and flavor.
Included:
Airport assistance
Transport
Hotel.
Day 2 – Colonial & Modern Lima
After breakfast, explore Lima’s UNESCO-listed historic center. Admire the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the Convent of San Francisco with its catacombs. Visit the Larco Museum, showcasing a superb collection of pre-Columbian art. Afternoon at leisure to stroll along the lively boardwalk or enjoy a pisco sour at a local café.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 3 – Lima → Paracas (Nazca Lines Flight Option)
Travel south along the Pan-American Highway towards Paracas, a seaside town at the edge of the desert. En route, stop at coastal villages and enjoy scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Check in to your hotel and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure at the Ballestas Islands.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Bus ride
Hotel in Paracas
Breakfast.
Day 4 – Ballestas Islands & Return to Lima
Board a speedboat for an excursion to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “mini-Galápagos” of Peru. Witness colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and thousands of seabirds. Later, head to the desert plateau of Nazca. Optional: soar above the mysterious Nazca Lines in a light aircraft to admire the enormous geoglyphs—monkeys, hummingbirds, and other figures etched into the desert floor over 1,000 years ago. Overnight in Nazca or return to Paracas depending on flight schedules.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel in Lima
Breakfast.
Day 5 – Lima → Cusco
Morning drive back to Lima, followed by a flight to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to rest and acclimatize to the altitude (11,000 ft / 3,350 m). In the evening, enjoy a gentle orientation walk through Cusco’s cobblestone streets.
Included:
Flight
Transport
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 6 – Cusco Archaeological Tour
Discover the cultural heart of the Andes with a guided city tour. Visit the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), once the most sacred Inca temple, later transformed into a Spanish convent. Explore the Cusco Cathedral with its unique fusion of Andean and Spanish art. Continue to nearby archaeological sites: Sacsayhuamán, famous for its cyclopean stone walls, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. Evening at leisure.
Included:
Professional guide
Entry fees
Transport
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast.
Day 7 – Sacred Valley: Pisac & Ollantaytambo
A full-day excursion to the fertile Sacred Valley, once the heartland of Inca civilization. Visit the colorful artisan market and archaeological site of Pisac, then enjoy a traditional Andean lunch. In the afternoon, explore Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with a fortress built to guard the valley. Overnight in the Sacred Valley.
Included:
Professional guide
Entry fees
Transport
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 8 – Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
This morning, board the bus from Aguas Calientes to reach the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With your expert guide, uncover the secrets of this sacred site: marvel at the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, the Intihuatana (Sun Stone), and the agricultural terraces that demonstrate Inca engineering genius. After the guided tour, enjoy some free time to absorb the atmosphere before returning to Aguas Calientes for the night.
Included:
Entrance fees
Professional guide
Bus ride
Train
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 9 – Free Morning at Machu Picchu → Return to Cusco
Wake up early to seize the chance for a second visit to Machu Picchu, this time without a guide. Enjoy the freedom to wander through the citadel, revisit your favorite spots, and take stunning photographs as the morning light shifts across the Andes.
Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be arranged in advance for spectacular panoramic views. In the afternoon, take the train back through the Sacred Valley, followed by transfer to Cusco.
Included:
Entrance fees
Bus ride
Train
Transport
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 10 – Inca Trail: Cusco → Puno (Route of the Sun)
Journey by tourist bus along the Ruta del Sol to Lake Titicaca. Along the way, visit Andahuaylillas Church (the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes”), the Inca temple of Raqchi, and the high mountain pass of La Raya (14,222 ft / 4,335 m). Arrive in Puno, the folkloric capital of Peru, and transfer to your hotel.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Bus
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 11 – Lake Titicaca: Uros & Taquile Islands
Embark on a full-day excursion to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Visit the floating reed islands of the Uros people, who have preserved their unique traditions for centuries. Continue by boat to Taquile Island, known for its stunning views and UNESCO-listed textile art. Enjoy a community-hosted lunch before returning to Puno.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Boat
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 12 – Puno → Lima → Departure
Transfer to Juliaca airport for your return flight to Lima and onward connections. Take with you the unforgettable memories of Peru—its mysteries, landscapes, and people.
Included:
Flight
Transport
Breakfast.
Unlock the mysteries of Peru—from desert geoglyphs and Inca ruins to titanic mountains, deep gorges, and sacred lakes. Ready for a transformational journey? Contact us now to reserve your adventure!
Includes Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
Transfers & Flights: All airport pickups/drops, domestic flights Lima–Cusco and Puno–Lima
Land & Water Transport: Intercity bus, tourist bus Cusco–Puno, paracas transfers, Ollantaytambo–Aguas Calientes train
Accommodation: Hotels in Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Aguas Calientes, Puno
Meals: Daily breakfasts; select lunches and dinners
Guided Experiences: Professional bilingual guides
Entrance Fees: All attractions including national reserves, archaeological sites, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca
Support Services: 24/7 assistance during the tour
Why Choose Mysteries of Peru?
Intense 12-day Peru tour, ideal for time-savvy travelers
Combines Inca archaeology, desert enigmas, Andean and lake cultures
Expert guides reveal secret stories behind Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, and ancient lakeside traditions
Includes Ballestas wildlife tour and floating Uros Islands experience
Packed but well-paced—perfect for deep discovery in under two weeks
Not Included Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
International flights to and from Peru
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Meals not specified in the itinerary (some lunches and dinners)
Optional activities and entrance fees not explicitly mentioned (e.g., Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes, Nazca Lines flight)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, beverages, phone calls, minibar, etc.)
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
Additional hotel nights due to flight delays or other circumstances beyond our control
Recommendations Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
Altitude Prep: Take it easy upon arrival in Cusco, drink coca tea, stay hydrated
Packing Essentials: Layered clothes, comfy walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, daypack
Book Early: Machu Picchu, Nazca flights, and Lake Titicaca tours fill quickly—reserve in advance
Cultural Etiquette: Engage respectfully, support artisan crafts, and ask permission before photos
Stay Safe: Use included services to keep belongings safe and enjoy comfortable travel
Photo Gallery Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
Frequently Asked Questions Mysteries of Peru 12 Days: Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu and Titicaca
Why is this tour focused on "Mysteries"?
This itinerary highlights sites that continue to baffle archaeologists and engineers. You start with the Nazca Lines, etched into the desert floor by a culture 1,500 years ago, and end with Machu Picchu, the "Lost City" that remained hidden from the Spanish for centuries. It’s a trip for the curious mind that loves a good historical puzzle.
What is the experience like at the Nazca Lines (Day 3)?
You will board a small aircraft for a scenic flight over the Nazca desert. From the air, you’ll see massive geoglyphs—a monkey, a spider, a hummingbird, and the "Astronaut"—that are only visible from the sky. The mystery lies in how and why a pre-Inca culture created these perfect geometric shapes without the benefit of flight.
How do we reach the "White City" of Arequipa?
After exploring the coast, you travel toward the Andes to Arequipa (Day 4). This city is a mystery of architecture, built almost entirely from sillar, a white volcanic stone. You’ll visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, a massive, colorful "city within a city" that was closed to the world for nearly 400 years.
What happens at the Colca Canyon (Days 5–6)?
The "mystery" here is the sheer scale of nature. The Colca is one of the deepest canyons in the world. You’ll head to the "Cruz del Condor" viewpoint to witness the flight of the giant Andean Condor. Watching these massive birds rise from the depths of the canyon using only thermal currents is a truly spiritual experience.
How do we transition to the Altiplano and Lake Titicaca?
From the Colca, you cross the high plateau to Puno (Day 7). This journey offers a dramatic change in landscape, moving from jagged volcanic peaks to the vast, flat plains of the Altiplano. You’ll stop at viewpoints to see wild vicuñas and alpacas grazing in their natural habitat.
What secrets does Lake Titicaca hold (Day 8)?
You’ll explore the world's highest navigable lake, visiting the Uros Floating Islands. The mystery here is human resilience: how a community created their own land out of reeds to escape invaders centuries ago. You also visit Taquile Island, where the social customs and textile arts are so unique they have been protected by UNESCO.
How is the "Imperial City" of Cusco explored (Days 10–11)?
Once in Cusco, the tour focuses on the megalithic mysteries. You’ll visit Sacsayhuaman, where massive stones weighing over 100 tons are fitted together so perfectly that you cannot slip a piece of paper between them. Your guide will explain the various theories—from ingenious Incan engineering to more "otherworldly" legends—about how these were moved.
What is the grand finale at Machu Picchu?
On Day 11, you reach the ultimate mystery. You’ll travel by train to the citadel and have a guided tour of the agricultural and urban sectors. Standing at the Intihuatana (the "sun-hitching post"), you’ll see how the Incas aligned their entire city with the stars and mountains, leaving behind a legacy that still leaves modern visitors in awe.
Comments:
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
"Jimmy est un guide passionné qui aime transmettre et partager sa culture et ses connaissances ! On a adoré le temps passé avec lui ! On peut lui poser plein de question et il nous répond toujours avec le sourire ! Une vraie encyclopédie (qui s’adapte à son public) ! ???????? Visiter la Vallée Sacrée avec lui c’est comprendre énormément de choses sur l’histoire de cette région ! C’est passionnant ! On recommande ses tours sans hésitation ! Merci beaucoup pour tout !!! Ne changez rien !!!!"
"Gracias a Jimmy y su equipo por esta maravillosa semana visitando Cusco, el Valle Sagrado de los Incas, y por conocer a una familia peruana tan encantadora. Todo estuvo increíblemente bien organizado. Hicimos mucho más de lo que lo hubiéramos organizado nosotros mismos. ¡Muchas gracias de nuevo! Los recomiendo ampliamente."
""
"Mis amigos y yo tuvimos una excelente experiencia con la agencia. El trato fue muy amable y personalizado, siempre atentos a cada detalle de nuestro viaje. Sin duda, los recomendamos."
"An excellent experience! Terres des Incas is truly an outstanding agency. Their itineraries are perfectly designed, the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, and the entire team is incredibly professional. The office staff was always available, listening to us, and quickly solving any small issues along the way. We felt supported throughout the entire trip. I am really happy with Terres des Incas and I recommend this agency 100% for anyone looking for a well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable journey in Peru."
"Voyage magnifique avec Jimmy un guide formidable. Interessant, attentif. À recommander"
"Buena experiencia, la atención es muy buena, como turista nacional me encantó el compromiso que tiene la empresa para con sus pasajeros."
"Excelente atención desde el primer momento. El equipo de TERRESDESINCAS se encargó de cada detalle y mi viaje fue perfecto. Muy recomendados por su profesionalismo, amabilidad y capacidad de resolver cualquier duda. ¡Sin duda volveré a viajar con ustedes!"
"J'ai fait appel à cette agence pour la vallée sacrée et palcoyo et je recommande à 100%. Tout s'est très bien passé, ils sont très réactifs et les guides très gentils et à l'écoute"
"Un lugar muy bonito para visitar"
"Una excelente experiencia! Terres des Incas es realmente una agencia excepcional. Sus itinerarios están perfectamente diseñados, los guías son altamente conocedores y atentos, y todo el equipo es increíblemente profesional. El personal de la oficina siempre estaba disponible, escuchándonos y resolviendo rápidamente cualquier pequeño problema en el camino. Nos sentimos apoyados durante todo el viaje. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia 100% para cualquiera que busque un viaje bien organizado, auténtico e inolvidable en Perú."
""¡Una experiencia inmejorable! Viajé desde Francia y honestamente puedo decir que Terres des Incas es la mejor agencia de viajes del Perú. Sus itinerarios están cuidadosamente diseñados, combinando cultura, aventura y momentos únicos que nunca olvidaremos. Los guías son extraordinarios: atentos, apasionados, y siempre deseosos de compartir sus conocimientos sobre historia y vida andina. El equipo de oficina era impecable, siempre disponible, servicial y resolver rápidamente cualquier detalle para asegurarse de que todo fuera perfecto. Nos sentimos acompañados y cuidados en cada paso, lo que hizo que nuestro viaje fuera aún más especial. Estoy muy contento con Terres des Incas y recomiendo esta agencia al 1000% a cualquiera que quiera descubrir el Perú de una manera auténtica, bien organizada y excepcionalmente personal "."
For responsible and sustainable tourism
The payment for each experience is distributed responsibly and transparently with the aim of generating a real and positive impact in Peru
