8 Days: Lima, Paracas, Cusco & Machu Picchu

Tour overview:

Explore Peru in eight unforgettable days by land and sea, combining cultural visits and natural adventures. Discover Lima's rich history with its impressive colonial heritage, admire the abundant wildlife of the Ballestas Islands in Paracas, and immerse yourself in the mystique of the Machu Picchu citadel. From the dunes of Ica to the heights of the Andes in Cusco, this journey will take you through the most fascinating archaeological and natural treasures of the country.

Day 1 - Arrival Lima

Upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, our transportation service and a representative take you to the selected hotel.

Day 2 - Lima - City tour and Larco Museum

Our guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin your Historic Center of Lima tour. You'll start by visiting the Aliaga House, a colonial mansion with over 5 centuries of history, considered the oldest house in the Americas. Then, you'll explore the Plaza Mayor, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can visit the imposing Lima Cathedral. Finally, you'll visit the Larco Museum, located in the traditional district of Pueblo Libre. The museum boasts a comprehensive collection of pre-Hispanic gold and silver objects and a selection of erotic art pieces, here, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in over 5,000 years of ancient Peruvian history. (B)

Day 3 - Lima - Ica city tour - Paracas

You are transferred from your hotel in Lima to the bus station to go to the city of Ica. Upon arrival, you will visit the Plaza de Armas of the city and the main streets of Ica Antigua and Moderna. Then you will have a panoramic tour of the temple of the Lord of Luren. Visit an artisan winery where you will have a full explanation of the elaboration of wine and Pisco with its respective tasting. You will also visit the Regional Museum of Ica where you will appreciate the evolution of the five most representative cultures of the region such as Paracas, Nazca, Wari, Ica, Chincha, and Inca. Finally, you will visit the Huacachina Lagoon also called “the Oasis of America” where you will appreciate the wonderful desert landscape surrounded by impressive dunes. At the end, you will be transferred to your selected hotel in Paracas. (B)

Day 4 - Paracas - Ballestas Islands / Lima

Today enjoy a morning tour of the famous Ballestas Islands, located 45 minutes off the coast of Paracas. The islands congregate an impressive animal fauna: guano birds, penguins, tendrils, and sea lions that curiously approach the tourist boats and jump around them. At the end of the tour, you will return to the hotel. Later you will be transferred from the hotel to the bus station to return to the city of Lima. You will be transferred to your selected hotel upon arrival at the bus station. (B)

Day 5 - Lima / Cusco - City tour and nearby archaeological sites

Our transportation service with an English-speaking driver will pick you up from your selected hotel and take you to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Domestic flight from Lima to Cusco. Upon your arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, our transportation service and a representative are ready to escort you to your selected hotel. Enjoy a guided tour of the charming and magical city of Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire. Start visiting the Santo Domingo Convent in the Coricancha temple. Then, visit the main temple of the city of Cusco, known as the Cathedral Basilica of the Virgin of the Assumption. Later, tour the Cusco hills of the Sacsayhuaman Fortress, visit the Qenqo archaeological complex, and walk through the Puca Pucara military architectural complex and the ruins of Tambomachay, also known as the Inca spa. Finally, return to the selected hotel. This tour is shared with other passengers. (B)

Day 6 - Cusco - Machu Picchu.

Our shared transportation service takes you from your selected hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo station. Board the Inca Rail's Voyager train from Ollantaytambo station to Aguas Calientes station (Machu Picchu Town) and receive assistance upon your arrival. Your return trip to Ollantaytambo station will also be on board the 360° train. Each journey lasts about one and a half hours, and schedules are subject to availability. Aguas Calientes, located on the slopes of Machu Picchu, features a lively craft market, various restaurants, and lodging options. Just a 25-minute bus ride away is Machu Picchu, an impressive architectural and engineering marvel believed to have been a sanctuary and retreat for the Inca Pachacutec. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu translates to "Old Mountain," which enchants visitors with its historical grandeur and natural beauty. After the visit, travelers return by bus to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy a delicious set lunch menu at Café Inkaterra while taking in the breathtaking view of the Vilcanota River. The restaurant is known for its unique blend of Andean cuisine and contemporary trends, resulting in a fusion-style meal with a distinctive flavor. (BL)

Day 7 - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Have a morning free to enjoy in Aguas Calientes. Optionally, you can return to Machu Picchu to visit the citadel's attractions. We suggest waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountain. It's an unforgettable experience! In the afternoon, begin the journey back to Cusco. After your train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a transfer will be waiting for you at the train station to take you to the selected hotel in Cusco. (B)

Day 8 - Cusco Depart

Our transportation service and a representative pick you up to take you from your selected hotel to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. (B)