Peru Highlights Tour | 12 Days

Lima, known as The City of Kings, is a city of contrasts, charm, and deep cultural significance. Its vibrant energy and rich heritage are sure to captivate you.

After breakfast, you’ll begin exploring the many faces of Peru’s bustling capital. Lima is a city where colonial architecture, pre-Columbian history, and contemporary life blend seamlessly.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Peru’s world-renowned culinary scene with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional favorites like ceviche and lomo saltado, and master the art of mixing a perfectly balanced pisco sour. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious, this experience will give you a delicious taste of Peru’s culinary soul.

Known as La Ciudad Blanca (The White City), Arequipa is famed for its stunning architecture made from white volcanic stone called sillar – and its incredible cuisine is not to be missed!

Today, your journey continues as you head to Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest and arguably most beautiful city.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport at the appropriate time to catch your flight to Arequipa. Upon arrival, a Peru & U representative will greet you and take you to your hotel.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You may choose to start exploring this picturesque city with its colonial charm and dramatic volcano backdrop, or simply relax and begin adjusting to the higher altitude. Arequipa sits at 2,335 meters (7,661 feet) above sea level.

Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, and home to the iconic Andean condor. Discover breathtaking landscapes and experience some of Peru’s most extraordinary natural beauty.

We’ll start early, picking you up from your hotel to begin this two-day Colca Canyon adventure. As you ascend into the Pampa de Cañahuas National Reserve, keep your eyes open, as you’ll have the chance to spot wild llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and possibly even Andean birds, all roaming freely in their natural habitat.

As the journey continues, the dramatic scenery unfolds before you, offering your first glimpses of the majestic Colca Valley as we begin our descent into the canyon.

By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Chivay, the main town in the Colca region, where you’ll check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind or explore at your leisure. We highly recommend a visit to the nearby hot springs, the perfect way to relax and soak in the magic of the Andes.

A day filled with dramatic landscapes, ancient culture, and sweeping Andean views!

We’ll start early to journey toward one of the most awe-inspiring points in the Colca Canyon: Cruz del Cóndor. As the sun rises over the canyon walls, you’ll witness stunning vistas and majestic Andean condors gliding overhead. Colca Canyon is not only twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, but also rich in pre-Incan history, making this experience both visually and culturally unforgettable.

After a short walk along the canyon’s edge, we’ll return to Chivay, where you’ll board a comfortable tourist-class coach to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca. The scenic drive takes approximately 6 hours and passes through charming Andean towns and vast highland landscapes, offering a glimpse into Peru’s rural life and traditions.

Upon arrival at the Puno bus terminal, a Peru & U representative will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. The evening is yours to rest and prepare for the adventures ahead on Lake Titicaca.

Welcome to Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake in the world and the largest in South America.

After a nourishing breakfast, you’ll set out on a full-day boat tour across the sparkling blue waters of this sacred lake. Your first stop is the fascinating Uros Floating Islands, handwoven entirely from totora reeds. These islands are home to the Uros people, who built them centuries ago to escape threats from rival communities. You’ll be warmly welcomed by locals who will share their way of life and even invite you on a ride in one of their traditional reed boats.

The journey continues to Taquile Island, a peaceful place where time seems to stand still. Here, life is simple and sustainable, rooted in ancient agricultural practices and communal living. As you explore the island with your guide, you’ll learn about its rich traditions, including its unique textile art, which is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

A traditional lunch will be served, made with fresh, local ingredients grown and harvested on the island. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Puno, your heart full from a day immersed in the warmth, culture, and living heritage of Lake Titicaca.

From the sweeping highlands of the Altiplano to the historic heart of the Inca civilization, today you’ll travel to Cusco, the famed ancient capital of the Inca Empire. This is your gateway to ancient wonders and the rich cultural legacy of the Andes – welcome to Cusco!

After enjoying a full breakfast at your hotel, a Peru & U representative will escort you to the bus station, where you’ll board a comfortable tourist-class bus bound for Cusco. This scenic route is considered one of the most beautiful in Peru, taking you through the vast and windswept Altiplano, a high plateau that stretches across Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile.

Throughout the approximately 10-hour journey, you’ll make several enriching stops at archaeological sites, museums, and traditional Andean villages, offering a deeper look into the region’s history and culture, and a chance to stretch your legs.

One of the highlights of the day is a stop at La Raya Pass, the highest point on the route at 4,319 meters (14,170 feet) above sea level, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views and capture some truly memorable photos.

Upon arrival in Cusco, a Peru & U representative will meet you at the bus station and transfer you to your hotel. The evening is yours to relax and acclimate to the altitude, in preparation for the exciting adventures ahead.

Journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region cherished by the Inca Empire for its fertile lands, stunning scenery, and deep spiritual connection to nature. 

After breakfast, you’ll be picked up and driven into the heart of the Sacred Valley. Your first stop is the archaeological site of Pisac, where impressive Incan terraces cling to the mountainside. You’ll also explore the charming Pisac village and its famous artisan market, especially lively on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Here, locals sell colorful textiles, alpaca wool garments, hand-carved gourds, and replicas of ancient Andean jewelry.

Next, you’ll follow the winding Urubamba River through the valley to reach Ollantaytambo, a magnificent Inca fortress nestled among soaring mountains. This site was once a strategic military, agricultural, and religious center, and its imposing terraces and structures continue to inspire awe.

After enjoying lunch, you’ll be transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, take the evening to unwind or explore this lively little town at your own pace, in anticipation of tomorrow’s grand adventure.

The highlight of your journey and one of the most unforgettable experiences of a lifetime. Explore Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a marvel of ancient engineering, mystery, and beauty.

With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore iconic sites like the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, and Royal Quarters, uncovering the mysteries and beauty of this perfectly preserved city nestled in the Andes.

After the tour, enjoy free time to explore the terraces and hidden corners at your own pace and capture stunning photos.

In the afternoon, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes, catch your train to Cusco, and be transferred to your hotel.

The evening is yours to relax or wander Cusco’s charming cobblestone streets, reflecting on an incredible day.

Today begins with an early pickup from your hotel for a 2.5-hour drive to the village of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a warm breakfast. From there, continue to Soraypampa, the starting point of the Salkantay Trek, with stunning views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains.

The hike to Humantay Lake takes about 1.5 hours at a moderate pace. For those who prefer, horses are available to rent (at an additional cost). At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the emerald lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Take time to appreciate the stunning views, take photos, and participate in an optional offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth).

After some rest, descend back to Soraypampa, where a hearty lunch awaits. Then return to Cusco, with the evening free to relax or explore at your leisure.

Witness one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders, Vinicunca – the Rainbow Mountain! A surreal landscape painted in vibrant colors and rising nearly 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) above sea level.

Enjoy breakfast before a pickup around 5:30 AM from your hotel. After a scenic drive through remote Andean villages and rolling highland plains, you’ll begin the hike to the viewpoint. While the trail is relatively short and gentle, the altitude adds a moderate challenge, especially on the final inclines.

As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, the dramatic Red Valley, and of course, the striped colors of Rainbow Mountain, a breathtaking sight that feels almost otherworldly.

After soaking in the views and taking plenty of photos, you’ll descend and enjoy a well-deserved lunch in the area before returning to Cusco around 5:00 PM, with the evening free to rest or explore at your leisure.

It’s hard to say goodbye to Peru, a country that leaves lasting memories – but as your incredible journey comes to an end, you’ll take with you unforgettable experiences and the spirit of Peru in your heart.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, a Peru & U representative will transfer you to the airport at the appropriate time based on your flight schedule. You’ll then board your flight to Lima, where you’ll connect with your international departure.

End of Services – Safe travels and until next time!

• International and domestic flights and airport taxes.
• Huayna Picchu Entrance Fee.
• Personal expenses.
• Meals not indicated.
• Gratuities.
• Travel insurance.
• Visa and related expenses.