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Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
This comprehensive 10-Day "Beach, Mountains & Desert" Tour is a perfectly curated journey through Peru's most astonishing natural and cultural highlights. The itinerary begins with the Coastal Circuit (Days 1-3), featuring the vibrant capital of Lima, a scenic bus ride to the Paracas National Reserve to see wildlife and dramatic red beaches, and a thrilling stop at the Huacachina Oasis, famous for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The middle phase focuses on the Andean Heartland (Days 4-7), covering the magnificent Inca ruins around Cusco (Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo), the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo), and culminates with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Experience the sheer diversity of Peru in one seamless trip. Sail by speedboat to the Ballestas Islands to spot sea lions and Humboldt penguins, then transition to the surreal desert oasis of Huacachina for high-speed dune adventures. In the Andes, travel the historic Route of the Sun to Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, where the third phase begins. Discover the ancient, welcoming communities living on the floating reed islands of Uros and the renowned textile weavers of Taquile Island. Every day offers a dramatic shift in scenery, from the Pacific Ocean to the high-altitude Altiplano, ensuring an unforgettable blend of action, history, and cultural connection.
This tour is designed for the traveler who wants the definitive Peruvian experience without the need for high-altitude trekking. It perfectly balances urban culture, coastal wildlife, desert thrills, and the sacred history of the Incas. The tour is all-inclusive, covering all domestic flights (Lima-Cusco, Juliaca-Lima), train tickets to Machu Picchu, quality hotel accommodation, entrance fees, and expert professional guides. Experience Peru’s rich diversity, stunning geography, and ancient heritage—all in one perfectly curated itinerary. Book your 10-Day "Beach, Mountains & Desert" adventure today!
Itinerary The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima (Pacific Coast)
Upon your arrival at Lima Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. If you arrive early, take time to unwind or walk along the Pacific coast. Try a refreshing ceviche and enjoy your first night in the vibrant capital of Peru.
Included:
Airport transfer
Hotel accommodation
Airport assistance.
Day 2 – Lima to Paracas: Nature & History
Take a scenic bus ride along the coast (approx. 4 hrs) to Paracas, a stunning bay known for its coastal wildlife and desert landscapes. In the afternoon, explore the Paracas National Reserve, home to flamingos, red beaches, and wind-sculpted cliffs.
Optional Activity (not included): Flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines ($600 USD supplement).
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 3 – Ballestas Islands & Oasis of Huacachina
Enjoy a speedboat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the "Poor Man’s Galápagos." See sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and dramatic rock formations. Spot the enigmatic Candelabro geoglyph from the boat. Then, travel to Huacachina, a surreal desert oasis surrounded by massive sand dunes—ideal for sandboarding and dune buggy rides.
Included:
Professional guide
Boat tour
Entrance fees
Transport
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 4 – Huacachina to Cusco via Lima
After breakfast, transfer to Lima for your domestic flight to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.
Included:
Assistance
Transport
Domestic flight
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 5 – Cusco & Inca Temples Tour
Explore key Inca archaeological sites around Cusco. Visit the monumental Sacsayhuamán, the ceremonial site of Qenqo, the military watchtower Puca Pucará, and the sacred water temple of Tambomachay. Afternoon free to explore Cusco’s colonial streets, markets, and cafes.
Included:
Professional guide
Transport
Entrance fees
Hotel
Breakfast.
Day 6 – Sacred Valley: Pisac & Ollantaytambo + Train to Machu Picchu
Explore the lush Sacred Valley of the Incas, beginning with the Pisac ruins, known for their vast terraces and ancient burial sites. Visit the colorful artisan market before continuing to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with a massive fortress.
Later, board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu.
Included:
Professional guide
Transport
Entrance fees
Breakfast., Lunch
Train
Hotel.
Day 7 – Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco
Take an early bus to the majestic Machu Picchu citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its temples, houses, terraces, and sacred plazas during a guided tour.
After the visit, return to Cusco via Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo.
Optional hike: Add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Bus
Train
Hotel
Breakfast, lunch.
Day 8 – The Route of the Sun: Cusco to Lake Titicaca
Travel by tourist bus through the scenic Andes Altiplano, stopping at historical sites along the way. Visit the Andahuaylillas Church (“Sistine Chapel of the Andes”), the Wiracocha Temple in Raqchi, and the Pukara Museum. Arrive in Puno, the city by Lake Titicaca.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Tourist bus
Hotel
Breakfast, lunch.
Day 9 – Full-Day Lake Titicaca Tour: Uros & Taquile Islands
Discover the legendary Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the floating reed islands of Uros, home to welcoming locals preserving pre-Inca customs. Continue to Taquile Island, famous for its traditional weaving and stunning lake views. Enjoy a typical Andean lunch before returning to Puno.
Included:
Professional guide
Entrance fees
Boat tour
Hotel
Breakfast & lunch.
Day 10 – Flight to Lima & International Departure
Transfer to the Juliaca Airport for your domestic flight to Lima and onward international connection.
Included:
Airport assistance
Domestic flight
Private transfer
Breakfast.
"Beach, Mountains & Desert" is a comprehensive 10-day journey through Peru’s most astonishing natural landscapes and cultural highlights. From sailing the Pacific and crossing sand dunes to ascending the Andes and connecting with indigenous communities on Lake Titicaca, this is the Peru adventure tour of a lifetime.
Book now and experience Peru’s rich diversity, stunning geography, and ancient heritage—all in one perfectly curated itinerary
Includes The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
Transportation:
All airport transfers in Lima, Cusco, and Puno
Bus: Lima → Paracas, Paracas → Huacachina, Huacachina → Lima
Flights: Lima → Cusco & Juliaca (Puno) → Lima
Train: Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu)
Tourist bus: Cusco → Puno via Route of the Sun
Boat excursion on Lake Titicaca
Ground transport as per itinerary
Accommodation:
Quality hotels in Lima, Paracas, Huacachina, Cusco, Aguas Calientes & Puno
Meals:
Daily breakfast
Select lunches and dinners as per itinerary
Guided Visits & Activities:
Lima city highlights
Paracas National Reserve tour
Ballestas Islands wildlife excursion
Optional Nazca Lines flight (not included, $400 supplement)
Inca temples around Cusco (Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, etc.)
Sacred Valley: Pisac & Ollantaytambo
Guided Machu Picchu visit (optional Huayna Picchu)
Route of the Sun cultural journey
Lake Titicaca: Uros & Taquile Islands boat tour
Additional Services:
Licensed bilingual tour guides
Entry fees to scheduled sites
Airport assistance
Private/shared transport and boat services
Not Included The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
International flights to and from Peru
Meals not specified in the itinerary (lunches, dinners, and snacks outside the included ones)
Drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages
Optional activities such as the Nazca Lines flight or Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain hikes
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.)
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff (optional but appreciated)
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Recommendations The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
What to Pack:
Light clothing for the coast and desert, warm layers for Cusco & Puno
Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, insect repellent
Passport, travel insurance, extra cash for markets
Health & Altitude:
Stay hydrated and rest upon arrival in Cusco
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals your first day at altitude
Activities & Exploration:
Follow your guide’s timing for optimal site visits
Don’t miss the chance to try sandboarding in Huacachina or traditional weaving demos in the Sacred Valley
Cultural Etiquette:
Be respectful when visiting local communities and always ask before taking photos
Support local artisans by buying handmade souvenirs in Pisac and Taquile
Free Time & Energy:
Use your free time to explore at your own pace, but don’t overexert before long travel days
Safety Tips:
Keep belongings secure, especially in bus terminals and markets
Use the included services for safe and comfortable travel
Photo Gallery The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
Frequently Asked Questions The Southern Circuit 10 days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & The Route of the Sun
What makes the "Southern Circuit" unique?
This itinerary is built on the concept of geographical contrast. You don't just stay in the mountains; you experience the radical difference between the sea-level wildlife of Paracas, the desert dunes of Ica, and the high-altitude majesty of Cusco and Puno. It is a 10-day journey that covers the three distinct faces of the Peruvian landscape.
How does the adventure begin on the coast (Day 2)?
Your first stop is the Paracas National Reserve. You’ll board a boat to the Ballestas Islands, often called the "Galápagos of Peru." Here, you’ll see Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and thousands of guano birds. On the way, you’ll also spot the "Candelabro," a mysterious 150-meter-tall geoglyph carved into the sand that still puzzles historians today.
What happens in the Ica desert (Day 3)?
From the coast, you head to the Huacachina Oasis, a palm-fringed lagoon surrounded by massive sand dunes. The highlight here is the adrenaline-pumping sandbuggy ride across the dunes, followed by a chance to try sandboarding. It’s a moment of pure fun and desert beauty before you head to the more spiritual Andean region.
How do we reach the Incan heartland?
After the desert, you fly from Lima to Cusco (Day 4). This allows you to bypass a 20-hour bus ride and maximize your time in the mountains. Your afternoon is dedicated to a relaxed city tour, visiting the Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) and the Main Square, helping your body adjust to the 3,400m altitude.
What are the highlights of the Sacred Valley (Day 5)?
You will spend a full day exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas. You’ll visit the colonial town of Pisac, famous for its artisan market and impressive agricultural terraces, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo, where the stone-work is so precise it rivals Machu Picchu. This valley is slightly lower in altitude, which is great for your acclimatization.
How is the Machu Picchu visit managed (Day 6)?
The tour is organized so you take the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). You’ll have a professional guided tour of the citadel, exploring its temples, residential areas, and astronomical clocks. By the end of the day, you return to Cusco, having crossed off a major item from your global bucket list.
What is the "Route of the Sun" to Puno (Day 8)?
This is the journey from Cusco to Lake Titicaca. Instead of a direct transfer, you travel on a first-class tourist bus that stops at several "gems" along the way: the "Andean Sistine Chapel" in Andahuaylillas, the Incan temple of Raqchi, and the high pass of La Raya (4,335m). It is the most scenic and culturally rich way to reach the Altiplano.
Who is the ideal traveler for this 10-day circuit?
This is for the traveler who wants maximum variety in a short window. If you love the idea of seeing penguins in the morning, surfing sand dunes the next day, and walking through Incan ruins the day after that, this is your trip. It is perfect for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts who want to see Peru's diverse colors.
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
