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You are here: Peru > Peru Round Tours > PERU ROUND TRIP 16d

Program itinerary

Day 1. Lima Airport - Hotel

Upon arrival at Jorge Chavez Airport Lima we are greeted by Machete Tours representative and transferred by private tour bus to Jose Antonio Executive Hotel Lima, transfer time is approximately 40 minutes. After settling into our accommodations and according your arrival time you will be served breakfast in the hotel dining room and/or have a meeting with our representative at the hotel lobby for practical information about the Lima city. Peruvians are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Tourists can easily communicate with hotel and staff employees as English is commonly spoken. Most of the people can and will not hesitate to assist you and even offer their perspective of experiencing Peruvian culture. Machete Tours values your free time in Peru as extremely precious. Therefore we suggest that during your free time you explore Miraflores as you look forward to witnessing the color and adventure of this 19 day tour. Overnight accommodations Jose Antonio Executive Hotel:www.hotelesjoseantonio.com

Day 2. Lima (sea level) - Pisco (sea level)

Breakfast is available starting at 06:30. The Lima guided city tour starts at 09:00. Our first destination stop in downtown Lima is San Martin square. The square is named after the Peruvian national independence hero, Don Jose De San Martin. Subsequently we visit the Plaza Mayor (the city’s main square) where we view Lima’s main Cathedral, the Government Palace and the City Hall palace, giving us an idea why Lima was called the city of Kings. We depart from Lima down town towards Miraflores District for a guided tour into the gold museum in Larcomar. The museum showcases the world’s largest and finest gold, silver, and precious stone jewelry and artifacts from various pre Colombian and Peruvian cultures. Lunch will be served at a grill restaurant in Larcomar. After lunch we return to the Jose Antonio Executive Hotel. In early afternoon we board a bus and travel 4 hours to our inland destination the town of Pisco. Along the way we pass by several local plantations, desert landscapes and isolated sandy beaches.Upon arrival in Pisco we check in to Hotel El Mirador.
Overnight accommodations Elmirador de Pisco Hotel www.elmiradorhotel.com

Day 3. Pisco - Ballestas Island (sea level) - Nazca (200 m.a.s.l.)

After breakfast and hotel check out we are transferred by private tour bus to the port of Pisco. At the port we are greeted by our guide who gives us an orientation about the tour. We start our tour boarding a private motorized boat and sailing to the Milenarium Candelabra (a large candlestick figure geoglyphs carved into a rocky sand wall). Subsequently we sail for an hour destination Ballestas Islands. The island is a natural habitat for Sea Lions, Penguins, and home to many species of sea birds, also within these sometimes still waters you may see Dolphin. After our Ballestas Island tour we return to Pisco Port where we eat lunch at a Peruvian seafood restaurant followed by a Pisco Sour drink (cocktail delicacy containing pisco, lemon, egg whites and regional bitters). After lunch we travel by bus 4 hours southeast along the Pan American Highway destination Nazca. Upon arrival in Nazca we check into the Cantayo Hotel. Overnight accommodations www.hotelcantayo.com

Day 4. Nazca Lines Flight - Arequipa (2380 m.a.s.l.)

Early morning wake up at 07:00 we eat breakfast. After breakfast we check out of the hotel and are transferred by private tour bus destination Nazca Airport. Upon arrival at Nazca Airport we are accompanied by our guide and board a Meridian Piper aircraft and fly at low altitude over the Nazca Lines to view the plains of San Jose. The plains of San Jose are a collection of mysterious large geoglyphs and straight lines etched into the desert around A.D. 600. As we fly over this area we will be able to capture some terrific views of the landscape and the geoglphs shaped like animals some stretching between 500 meters long. After this exciting flight we are accompanied by our guide and travel to the pre-Inca cemetery of Chauchilla. At the cemetery we see mummies that have been kept almost completely intact for centuries by the dry desert. After viewing the mummy cemetery we return to Nazca town for lunch and subsequently we travel by bus approximately 10 hours destinations Arequipa city. Upon arrival in Arequipa (approximately midnight) we check into Hotel Sonesta Posada del Inca. www.sonesta.com/arequipa

Day 5. Arequipa City Tour

Free morning due to extended length of travel from Nazca to Arequipa. Later that afternoon our tour starts around 14:00. The tour guide and the tourist bus collect us from the hotel and we begging the tour visiting Arequipa mainsquare and the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa. The Cathedral flights the Vatican flag and has many artifacts from the Vatican in Rome. Continuing the tour we visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, a 20,000 square-meter monastery build in 1580 and approximately 20 nuns still live in the north part of the complex. We also visit the Yanahuara Square where we will be able to take some excellent pictures of the Misti Volcano, the tour lasts 4 hours. Subsequently we return to the hotel. Upon our return to the hotel our guide gives us an orientation about the Colca Canyon 2 days tour. Overnight accommodations Hotel Sonesta Posada Del Inca.

Day 6. Arequipa - Colca Canyon Tour (2300 m.a.s.l.)

Early morning wake up at 06:00 we are accompanied by our guide and transferred by private tour bus to Chivay town in the Colca Valley district. We travel west along highway 1B at altitude of approximately 4800 m.a.s.l. While traveling we appreciate the panoramic views overlooking the plains of the Andes known as the Altiplano (4500 m.a.s.l.). We see South American Lamar’s (Lamas, Alpacas, etc) and different types of Andean birds. The mountain peaks in this area range from 5000 to 6000 meters. Around midday we are served a packed lunch. Later on that afternoon we arrive in Chivay. Subsequently we travel to the thermal baths of Chivay and enjoy bathing in the therapeutic water. Overnight accommodations Pozo Del Cielo Hotel. www.pozodelcielo.com

Day 7. Colca Canyon (2300 m.a.s.l.) - Puno (3860 m.a.s.l.)

In the early morning we are accompanied by our guide and travel by private tour bus to Mirador del Condor, this is a lookout point for Condors in Colca Canyon. From this vantage point we observe Condor ascending into the canyon seeking prey. Afterward we take a short walk along the canyon to visit small traditional Andean villages and observe how Inca and pre-Inca civilizations used the canyon sidewalls for its laboratorial purposes and farming. After our morning tour we return to the hotel and eat lunch (not included). After eating lunch we are transferred by private tour bus and travel 7 hours northeast along highway 1B destination Puno. Along the way we appreciate various Andean birds species, Llamas, Alpacas and Vicuñas. Upon arrival in Puno we transfer buses at Puno Bus Station destination Sonesta Posada del Inca Hotel Puno. Puno City is 3800 m.a.s.l. and it is considered the folklore capital of Peru. Most of the people living in the Puno area are Aymara natives and it is from Puno where all tours to Titicaca Lake start.
Overnight accommodations Sonesta Posada del Inca Hotel Puno. www.sonesta.com/Puno/

Day 8. Puno - Titicaca Lake 2 Days Tour (3860 m.a.s.l.)

At around mid-morning after eating breakfast we check out of the Sonesta Posada Del Inca Hotel. We are accompanied by our guide and are transferred by private tour bus destination Puno port. Upon arrival at Puno port we board a motorized sail boat and start sailing Lake Titicaca (3860 m.a.s.l.) the highest commercially navigable lake in the world destination Amantani Island. We start by visiting the floating islands of Uros made of reed mace, and mingle with the Uros people who live on the islands. We receive an orientation from our guide about the historical endurance of the Uros Tribe. We learn how they live in perfect harmony with the lake and the way they use natural resources in the area for survival. Subsequently, we leave the Uros and sail toward Amantani Island, in the way a pack lunch is served. Upon arrival to Amantani Island we are greeted by local families with whom we receive room accommodation, meals and overnight hospitality. Incoming tourism is a big part of the local tribal economy on the Amantani Island and in this way they share the benefits. After we settle into our accommodations, we depart to the top of the island accompanied by our guide. At the top of the island we witness and photograph the sunset and explore the archaeology. Overnight accommodations and dinner host family on Amantani Island.

Day 9. Amantani Island (3800 m.a.s.l.) -Taquile Island (3840 m.a.s.l.) - Puno.

Early morning wake up we eat breakfast with our host family. After breakfast we leave Amantani Island and sail to Taquile Island. Upon arrival to the island we take a short hike to greet native inhabitants of the island. On this peaceful island, dominated by tiered platforms, we admire the beautifully colored textiles and garments while we observe a weaving demonstration by local natives. While on the island we eat lunch consisting of fresh trout from the lake and locally grown fruit. After eating lunch we board a motorized sail boat and return to Puno port arriving at approximately 17:00. Upon our arrival a private bus will be at the port waiting to transfer us to the Sonesta Posada del Inca Puno.
Titicaca Lake Tour Includes:
Bus journey to location.
Bilingual guide.
Boat trip that seats 20 people.
Guided visit to the Uros Floating Islands, Amantani Island and Taquile Island.
Pick up and drop off at the hotel.
The tour is full board.

Day 10. Puno - Cusco (3300 m.a.s.l.)

We check out of the Jose Antonio Hotel accompanied by our guide and are transferred to Puno bus station. Upon arrival at Puno bus station we board a tourist bus and travel 9 hours destination Cusco. We stop to eat a buffet lunch in a small town between Puno and Cusco and visit different historical and archaeology sites along the way. Some attractions highlights include Sillustani Ruins with its pre-Columbian Chullpa tombs, the archeological site of Pucara, Racchi ruins known as the Temple of the Gods, Wiracocha and La Raya Pass. La Raya Pass is the highest point between Cusco and Puno at 4200 m.a.s.l. From this vantage point we take photographs of the surrounding area. Upon arrival at Cusco bus station, a representative of Machete Tours will be waiting to transfer passengers to Picoaga Hotel. After hotel check in a representative of Machete Tours will meet us in the hotel lobby and give us practical information about Cusco city and answer any questions concerning the tour itinerary. Overnight accommodations Picoaga Hotel www.picoagahotel.com

Day 11. Cusco City Tour

This is a free morning considering the tight schedule we have had over the last couple of days. Our tour to Cusco city starts at approximately 14:00. We are transferred from the hotel accompanied by our guide to the tour starting point at the Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Our guide gives us an orientation about the Cathedral’s history and architecture. This explanation also gives a better insight into an adjacent smaller Cathedral known as Iglesia Del Triunfo which was the first Christian church to be built in Cusco. After touring the Cathedral we visit the Koricancha or the Sun Temple where we can view architecture from the past and present worlds. We continue the tour by driving out of Cusco and visiting the surrounding archeological sites. We start by visiting the impressive Sacsayhuaman Fortress (Satisfied Hawk) which consists of mysterious gigantic rocks each weighing approximately 125 tons. The stones at this site are cut with such precision that they interlock and form shapes that lead down to underground passages. Afterward we pass the sacrifice chamber of Quenco, the advance fortress of Puka Pukara and the water Temple of Tambo Machay. Our tour duration is approximately 4 ½ hours and all entrance fees are included. After the tour we return to the hotel Picoaga.

Day 12. Cusco City Free Day

This day is free of activities; however we suggest visiting some famous places around Cusco like Triunfo Street with its stones of the twelve angles, the Church of La Merced with its famous Indian-colonial paintings and the Witches Market of Cusco. If you want to learn more about the Cusco School System we can arrange a visit to one of the village schools outside Cusco. To arrange a school visit we need 2 weeks advanced notice. Dinner and show! Tonight we visit a restaurant with a festive atmosphere where we will enjoy variety of meals, live folk music and traditional dancing. Overnight accommodations hotel Picoaga.

Day 13. Cusco - Sacred Valley of The Incas (2600 m.a.s.l.) - Cusco.

At 08:00 we start our excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We travel via tour bus with an onboard guide. There is a traditional Market in Pisac which is open 3 days a week. Pisac has the Citadel Ruins which is connected to the Inca Empire and Paucatambo, these sites lead to the entrance of the Gorge. At the entrance to the Gorge our guide will tell us about the water ducts and steps cut out of solid rocks. After viewing the Ruins we eat a buffet lunch at Tunupa Restaurant. After eating lunch we visit Ollantaytambo which is considerate to be an open museum town where it’s inhabitants still maintain the traditions and laws of their ancestors. In Ollantaytambo we visit a local archeological site. Subsequently, we drive for an hour until we reach the town of Chincheros and visit the Market and adjacent Colonial Cathedral. After touring Chincheros we return to Cusco arriving at approximately 18:30.
Overnight accommodations Picoga Hotel.

Day 14. Cusco - Aguas Calientes (2340 m.a.s.l.)

Early morning transfer to Poroy Train Station Cusco. Upon arrival at the train station we board the Vista Dome Train accompanied by our guide where a snack will be served. As we travel our guide points out and we photograph areas of special significance as the panoramic scenic views unfold. We socialize as the excitement builds viewing Machu Picchu in the distance. Upon arrival to Machu Picchu Station, we will be transferred by walking private tour bus to the La Cabana Hotel Machu Picchu. The hotel is in the midst of the rainforests in the village of Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon we may want to explore the area (not guided tour) and discover the fascinating yet fragile ecosystem of the Machu Picchu Cloud Forest having the chance of photograph many indigenous plants and variety of colorful bird life. You can also visit the natural hot spring pools of Aguas Calientes. In the early evening you will meet with your tour guide for final information about your next day tour to Machu Picchu. Overnight accommodations La Cabana Machu Picchu www.lacabanamachupicchu.com

Day 15. Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu (2600 m.a.s.l.) – Cusco (330 m.a.s.l.)

From Aguas Calientes we take a bus to Machu Picchu. The Incas started building Machu Picchu around 1430 AD. The Ruin was abandoned as an official site for the Inca rulers a hundred years later at the time of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. It was largely unknown to the outside world before being rediscovered by Hiram Bingham III, an American historian. We start our visit with a guided tour that takes 2 to 3 hours and which brings us to the most important locations at the archeological site. Our guide will tell us about the great importance of Machu Picchu an agricultural, astrological and religious center. We explore the 3 main areas of Machu Picchu the Sun Temple, Intihuatana and the Room of Three Windows. The remainder of the morning (until early afternoon) we spend at this amazing site and we have the chance to climb Wayna Picchu (personal optional tour) or visit the beautiful Moon Temple. We meet in the afternoon at a designated site outside Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes for Lunch and leisure time. At late afternoon we board a train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo we are transferred by private bus destination Cusco, here we check into the Picoaga Hotel.

Day 16. Flight from Cusco - Lima

We checkout of the Picoaga Hotel and travel by private bus to Cusco Airport destination Jorge Chavez Airport Lima travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arrival at Jorge Chavez Airport we are greeted by a representative of Machete Tours and are transferred by private bus to Miraflores district. While in Miraflores district we have a few hours leisure time. In Miraflores we suggest you to visit the Indian Market. The market sells handicrafts and precious stone jewelry from all regions of Peru. We meet at a designate time and place in Miraflores and are transferred by private vehicle to Lima airport. We arrive 3 hours prior to flight departure.
END OF SERVICE
Notice: You can have an extra night in Lima upon request and at an extra cost.


INCLUDED IN THE TOUR.

HOTELS:
01 night at Jose Antonio Executive Hotel Lima****
01 night at Mirador De Paracas Hotel***+
01 night at Hotel Cantayoc - Nazca****
02 nights at Sonesta Posada del Inca Arequipa***+
01 night at Hotel Pozo Del Cielo Colca***+
02 nights at Sonesta Posada del Inca Puno***
01 night at Local Family accommodation at Amantani Island - Titicaca Lake
01 night at La Cabana Machu Picchu Hotel ***+
05 nights at Picoaga Hotel - Cusco****

TOURS:
Lima city tour
Ballestas Island tour
Nazca Lines over flight tour
Arequipa city tour
The Colca Canyon 2 days tour with transportation directly to Puno
2 Days Titicaca Lake tour
Cusco city tour
Cusco sacred valley tour
2 Days tour to Machu Picchu


FLIGHTS:
01 Flight from Cusco to Lima


TRANSPORT:
Bus from Lima to Pisco
Bus from Pisco to Nazca
Bus from Nazca to Arequipa
Tourist bus from Colca to Puno
Tourist bus from Puno to Cusco
All transfers at arrival and departure from Airport-Hotel-Airport

MEALS:
Total Breakfast at Hotels and tours: 15
Total Lunches: 09
Total Dinners: 02
01 Lunch after Lima city tour
01 Lunch after Ballestas Islands tour
01 Lunch in Nazca
01 Lunch at Colca Canyon tour
02 Lunches at Titicaca tour
01 Lunch in the way from Puno to Cusco
01 Lunch at the sacred valley tour
01 Lunch at the Machu Picchu tour
01 Dinner at Amantani Island – Titicaca tour
01 Dinner show in Cusco

REMARKS:
Hotels in the program are 4 and 3+ stars. In case of non-availability we will allocate a Hotel of the same standard.
All Hotels include breakfast.
You will find the Hotels web address publicized in the tour description.
All transfers and tours include English Speaking guide.
All tours packages include: meals, accommodation, transport, entrances and transfers.