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Cusco
Machu Picchu by Vistadome: Cusco, Sacred Valley & The Citadel (3 Days)
Description: del Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
This comprehensive 13-Day Peru Mega-Circuit begins on the Pacific coast, traversing the desert landscapes of the South. The first phase features a boat excursion to the biodiverse Ballestas Islands (within Paracas National Reserve), a visit to the surreal Huacachina Oasis (ideal for sandboarding), and exploration of the ancient Chauchilla Cemetery near Nazca. The journey then ascends to the Southern Andes, arriving in Arequipa, the "White City," dominated by the Misti and Chachani volcanoes. This is followed by a dramatic transfer across the Pata Pampa Pass (4,910 m) to the Colca Canyon, where you will witness the majestic flight of the Andean Condor at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
The tour seamlessly transitions to the Altiplano, featuring a genuine cultural immersion with a homestay in the village of Llachón on the Capachica Peninsula of Lake Titicaca. Here, you sail to the authentic Uros Titino islands and the weaving haven of Taquile. A scenic overland drive on the Route of the Sun (visiting the Temple of Viracocha and the Sistine Chapel of the Andes) brings you to Cusco. The final phase is the Inca heartland: exploring the major ruins (Sacsayhuamán, Qorikancha), the Sacred Valley (Pisac), the pre-Inca Maras Salt Mines, and the agricultural laboratories of Moray, culminating in the legendary guided tour of Machu Picchu at dawn.
This is the ultimate Peruvian experience, designed for the traveler who wants to witness the country’s vast geographical and cultural range in one continuous itinerary. From the marine life of the Pacific coast and the desert mummies to the high-altitude condors and the majestic Inca Citadel, every day offers a new, unforgettable vista. The tour is fully supported, including all private transportation, domestic flights, train tickets, entrance fees, and a perfect blend of high-quality hotels and authentic homestays. Book your 13-Day Peru Mega-Circuit today and embark on the most complete journey through Peru’s deserts, mountains, and ancient heartland!
Duration: 13 days
Portage: Only your daypack
Accommodation: Hotels, homestay
Guiding: English–speaking guide
Level: Easy
Itinerary Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
Day 1: Lima – Pisco – Paracas National Reserve – Huacachina
Early morning departure toward Paracas (sea level), traveling south along the Pacific coast on the Pan-American Highway.
Boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, located within Paracas National Reserve, home to countless bird species, sea lions, and marine life. Here, the cold Humboldt Current from Antarctica meets the warm El Niño Current from the equator, creating exceptional biodiversity.
We continue toward Ica (406 m), an oasis region famous for fruit orchards and vineyards. Optional visit and tasting of local Pisco and wines at El Catador.
Arrival in the Huacachina oasis and hotel check-in. Optional dune climb for sunset views or sandboarding.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private transportation
Hotel in Huacachina
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 2: Ica – Nazca – Chauchilla Cemetery
We continue south to Nazca (588 m) as the coastal landscape gradually gives way to desert scenery.
After hotel check-in, visit of Chauchilla Cemetery, where well-preserved mummies and ancient funerary structures reveal the traditions of the Nazca and Wari cultures.
Return to the hotel and free afternoon.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private transportation
Hotel in Nazca
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Note: Due to the February 2022 airplane crash (the third in recent years), we are not offering the Nazca Lines overflight until new safety measures are firmly implemented.
Day 3: Nazca – Arequipa
Today we begin our ascent toward the Andes, traveling along the Pacific coast before gradually climbing to Arequipa, the “White City.”
It is a long travel day—we will arrive in Arequipa in the evening.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private transportation (approx. 10 hours)
Hotel in Arequipa
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4: Arequipa – The White City
City tour. Nestled between desert and mountains and dominated by the majestic Misti Volcano (5,820 m), flanked by Chachani (6,075 m) and Pichu Pichu (5,425 m), Arequipa stands as one of Peru’s most beautiful cities.
Founded in 1540, Arequipa prospered through silver trade from Potosí and later through alpaca wool commerce—wealth reflected in its colonial architecture: churches, noble mansions, and the famed Santa Catalina Monastery, built from white volcanic stone (sillar).
Visits include:
Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints
Church and cloisters of the Jesuit Order
Santa Catalina Monastery
Museum of the Arequipa Cathedral (the cathedral itself no longer offers interior visits)
Afternoon at leisure.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private transportation
Hotel in Arequipa
Breakfast, lunch
Day 5: Arequipa – Colca Canyon
Morning departure toward Chivay, a village in the Colca Valley.
En route, you will pass near Chachani Volcano and observe vicuñas in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve.
At Pata Pampa Pass (4,910 m), enjoy breathtaking views of Ampato (6,400 m), Sabancaya (5,976 m), and Huallca Huallca (6,025 m).
Arrival in Chivay for lunch. In the afternoon, drive up to Canacota and then descend to La Calera hot springs (optional bathing).
Evening at leisure.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private transportation
Hotel in Chivay
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6: Colca Canyon – Capachica Peninsula – Llachón
With a vertical relief of 3,000 m, the Colca Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon (note: 3,000 m from the peaks to the valley floor; the canyon itself is 1,000 m deep).
Transfer to Cruz del Cóndor, where morning thermal currents offer ideal conditions to observe the Andean condor. Short hike toward Salto del Cura with spectacular views.
Lunch in Chivay, then bus to Puno. Continue by road to the Capachica Peninsula, arriving in the village of Llachón, on the shores of the legendary Lake Titicaca.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Entrance fees
Private transport (condor viewpoint)
Tourist bus to Puno
Private transport to Llachón
Homestay
Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7: Llachón – Uros Titino – Taquile – Llachón
Private boat to Taquile Island, with an intermediate stop at the Uros Titino islands, built entirely from totora reeds. These lesser-visited islands offer an authentic experience far from the mass tourism of the classic Uros islands near Puno.
Continue navigating Lake Titicaca (“Stone Puma”) toward Taquile Island. Walk across the island, meeting its inhabitants, renowned for their weaving traditions and communal lifestyle.
Lunch in a local family-run lodge.
Return to Llachón. If time permits, visit Santa María to enjoy the sunset over the lake and surrounding mountain ranges.
Included:
• English-speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Private boat
• Homestay
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 8: Llachón – Racchi – Temple of Viracocha – Cusco
Farewell to your host family and departure across the Altiplano toward Cusco.
This vast plateau, shaped by cold winds and arid landscapes, is home to alpaca herds and high-Andean crops such as quinoa and potatoes.
Stop at La Raya Pass (4,335 m), the watershed between the Pacific and Atlantic.
Visits en route:
Pucara Museum
Racchi: Inca storehouses and the Temple of Viracocha
The “Sistine Chapel of the Andes” in Andahuaylillas
Arrival in Cusco in the late afternoon. Dinner not included.
Included:
English-speaking guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast, lunch
Day 9: Cusco – The Navel of the Inca World
Today’s visit includes the four major archaeological sites surrounding Cusco:
Tambomachay
Puka Pukara
Qenqo
Sacsayhuamán, with its perfectly interlocking stone walls
Continue with visits to the Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha) and the Cathedral, home to masterpieces from the Cusqueña School of Art.
Afternoon at leisure to explore the historic center.
Included:
English-speaking local guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Breakfast
Hotel in Cusco
Day 10: Cusco – Pisac – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Depart for the Sacred Valley.
Visit Pisac, with its vast terraces, water channels, observatories, and the region’s largest Inca cemetery (nearly 10,000 tombs).
Stop at the traditional handicraft market.
Continue to Ollantaytambo, following the sacred Urubamba River.
Explore its ancient cobblestone streets, unchanged since the 15th century.
Train to Aguas Calientes and hotel check-in. Evening at leisure.
Note: Large luggage stays in the Cusco hotel; bring only essentials for the next two days.
Included:
English-speaking local guide
Private transportation
Train to Aguas Calientes
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 11: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo
At dawn, board the shuttle bus to enter Machu Picchu early, enjoying the site before the crowds.
Guided tour of the entire citadel: agricultural terraces, urban sector, temples, and panoramic viewpoints.
Return to Aguas Calientes in the afternoon to take the train back to Ollantaytambo.
Optional activities (not included, must be pre-booked):
Huayna Picchu hike
Machu Picchu Mountain hike
Included:
English-speaking local guide
Shuttle bus
Train to Ollantaytambo
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Day 12: Ollantaytambo – Maras – Moray – Chinchero – Cusco
Visit Ollantaytambo archaeological site at sunrise. Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, active since pre-Inca times.
Then visit Moray, believed to be an Inca agricultural laboratory.
End with a visit to Chinchero, the “Rainbow Village,” before returning to Cusco.
Included:
English-speaking local guide
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Breakfast, lunch
Hotel in Cusco
Day 13: Cusco – Lima – International Flight
Private transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Lima and connection with your international departure.
Included:
Airport assistance
Private transportation
Breakfast
END OF OUR SERVICES
Includes Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
PRICE INCLUDES
Accommodation in 3-star hotels (according to local standards) and homestay
Domestic flights: Lima–Cusco and Cusco–Lima
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Private and shared ground transportation
Airport assistance
English-speaking and bilingual guides
All excursions mentioned in the program
Entrance fees to all included sites
Not Included Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
International flights
Travel insurance
Meals not included in the program (approx. USD 5–10 per meal)
Drinks
Tips (approx. USD 2 per day per person for guides)
Recommendations Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR TRIP
Climate contrasts: You will experience coastal desert heat (Ica, Nazca) and cool Andean climates (Colca, Titicaca, Cusco). Bring layered clothing, warm jacket, and hat.
Altitude acclimatization: Several locations exceed 3,000 m. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Coca or muña tea can help with altitude discomfort.
Footwear and gear: Comfortable, grippy walking shoes are essential for Inca sites and uneven terrain.
Sun protection: UV radiation is intense both on the coast and in the Andes. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Health & hygiene: Carry basic medications and hand sanitizer. Drink only sealed bottled water; avoid ice.
Money: Keep some cash in soles for markets, meals, and tips. Cards are rarely accepted in remote areas.
Respect for local communities: Always ask before taking photos, especially in Llachón, Uros, and Taquile.
Gastronomy: Try Peruvian specialties (ceviche, quinoa, alpaca, Titicaca trout) but avoid overeating during your first days at altitude.
Safety: Follow your guide’s instructions, particularly at Colca Canyon, Machu Picchu, and during boat trips. Keep valuables secure.
Energy & rest: This program is full and dynamic. Use free time to recharge.
Memories: Keep your camera or phone charged—every day offers unforgettable views.
Photo Gallery Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
Frequently Asked Questions Treasures of Peru from the Pacific Ocean to the Sacred Andes
What is the central theme of this "Treasures" itinerary?
The theme is elevation and evolution. You literally trace the history of Peru from its coastal civilizations (Paracas/Nazca influence) up to the colonial highlands (Arequipa) and finally to the imperial seat of the Incas (Cusco). It’s a journey that emphasizes how geography shaped the history of the Andean people.
How does the "Pacific" portion begin (Days 2–3)?
You start at sea level in the Paracas National Reserve. The "treasure" here is biological abundance. You’ll take a boat to the Ballestas Islands to witness thousands of birds and sea lions. Then, you move to the Ica Desert, where the treasure is the golden sand of the Huacachina Oasis. It’s a stark, beautiful contrast of blue ocean and yellow dunes.
Why is Arequipa considered a "Treasure"?
On Days 4 and 5, you explore the "White City," built from volcanic sillar stone. The crown jewel here is the Santa Catalina Monastery. Walking through its vivid red and blue streets is like stepping into a frozen moment of the 16th century. It offers a sophisticated, colonial counterpoint to the wild nature you saw on the coast.
What natural wonders do we see in the Colca Canyon?
The tour takes you through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve, a high-altitude plain filled with vicuñas (a wild relative of the alpaca). The climax is standing at the Cruz del Condor to watch the Andean Condor fly. In this deep scar in the earth, you realize the sheer scale of the Andes for the first time.
How does Lake Titicaca fit into the "Sacred" theme (Days 8–9)?
For the Andean people, this lake is the birthplace of the sun. You will navigate these sacred waters to visit the Uros (reed islands) and Taquile Island. The treasure here is intangible: it is the preserved lifestyle of the islanders, who run their society based on ancient community codes and produce some of the finest textiles in the world.
What is the journey along the "Route of the Sun"?
Connecting Puno to Cusco, this isn't just a transfer; it's a museum on wheels. You stop at the temple of Raqchi, built to the creator god Wiracocha, and the church of Andahuaylillas, filled with gold leaf and murals. It bridges the gap between the Altiplano cultures and the Inca capital.
How do we explore the Sacred Valley (Day 12)?
Before the final ascent to Machu Picchu, you explore the fertile valley that fed the Inca Empire. You’ll visit the artisan market of Pisac and the massive stone fortress of Ollantaytambo. This day is crucial for understanding the agricultural genius that allowed the Incas to thrive in such rugged mountains.
Is Machu Picchu the final "Treasure"?
Yes. On Day 13 or 14, you reach the Lost City. After two weeks of traveling from the ocean, through the desert, and across the high plateau, arriving at Machu Picchu feels like the final piece of a grand puzzle. You will have the context to appreciate it not just as a ruin, but as the culmination of thousands of years of Andean development.
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
