Journey Through Ancient Peru: 16-Day Odyssey from Lima to Machu Picchu

Upon your arrival in Lima, the bustling capital of Peru, you will be warmly greeted and assisted with your transfer to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and relax, soaking in the ambiance of this vibrant city. If you wish to adjust your itinerary and spend an extra night at the beginning of your journey, we are happy to accommodate your needs.

At 2 pm, prepare to delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of Lima with an exclusive tour of the Historical Center. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, old Lima is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and colonial relics that will transport you back in time.

Your journey begins at the Convent of Santo Domingo, a cornerstone in the foundation of Lima. This historic site is not only the birthplace of the Universidad Mayor de San Marcos, the oldest university in the Americas, but also a place of profound spiritual and cultural significance. As you wander through its sacred halls, take in the intricately carved wooden choir stalls, the oldest in the country, and the revered library that houses 25,000 ancient texts, including some from the 15th century. Within these walls rest the remains of San Martín de Porres, San Juan Masías, and Santa Rosa de Lima, offering a deep connection to Peru's spiritual past.

Next, cross the iconic Plaza Mayor, the heart of old Lima, where you’ll be surrounded by the stately Government Palace and the Municipality. Here, you’ll step into the grand Cathedral of Lima, a true jewel of colonial architecture. The Cathedral's vast collection of religious art and its magnificent altars will give you a glimpse into the opulent history of the city and its colonial past, making you feel as if you've traveled back to the days of the Spanish Empire.

Leaving the historic center behind, the tour takes you to the renowned Larco Museum, where the rich tapestry of Peru's ancient cultures unfolds before your eyes. As you explore the museum's vast collection, you’ll be captivated by the intricate gold pieces, beautifully woven textiles, and the fascinating erotic ceramics that provide a unique insight into the ancient Peruvian worldview. One of the highlights of this visit is access to the museum's storage, where you can appreciate the full spectrum of artistic expression found in their extensive ceramics collection—a rare opportunity to connect deeply with the legacy of Peru's early civilizations.

After a day filled with cultural exploration, return to your hotel to unwind. Reflect on the day’s discoveries, and perhaps enjoy a quiet evening savoring Peruvian cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Rest well in anticipation of the adventures that await in the coming days.

You'll depart for Paracas Bay via the VIPAC shuttle service. From there, you'll head to the Pisco airport to embark on an unforgettable flight over the Nazca Lines. These massive geoglyphs, depicting various animals like a monkey, hummingbird, condor, and spider, can only be fully appreciated from the sky. While their origins remain mysterious, many believe they served as an astronomical calendar. During the flight, you’ll see 12 geoglyphs of the Nazca plateau and 2 geoglyphs on the Palpa plateau. You'll also fly over the Ocucaje Valley, where oceanic fossils dating back 150 million years can still be found, as well as other valleys where the Paracas and Nazca civilizations once thrived. 

The flight lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including time spent at the airport.

The plane is reserved exclusively for you, with no other passengers on board. 

Please note: The approximate flight time is coordinated on the day of the excursion and depends on weather conditions, so a specific departure time cannot be guaranteed.

After the flight, you'll return to the airport and transfer to your hotel in Paracas.

The Nazca Lines cover an area of 500 square kilometers in a desert where it rains for only half an hour each year. This unique climate has allowed the geoglyphs to remain preserved to this day.

These drawings were first described in 1548, but for many years, they didn’t attract much attention. This may be because they can only be fully appreciated from above, and it wasn’t until much later that flights over the desert became common. In the early 1940s, during the construction of the Pan-American Highway, an American professor, who had been invited to study the hydrology of the coast, regularly flew over the valleys in small planes. He was the first to notice the strange lines forming massive drawings. The sight left him astonished and deeply intrigued.

Professor Kosok and other researchers dedicated many years to studying these lines. They discovered a connection between the lines and the sun during the summer and winter solstices, as well as indications pointing to the moon, planets, and prominent constellations. It seemed as though the Nazca civilization had created a giant observatory here.

The technique for creating these geoglyphs was quite simple: the top darkened layer of soil was removed and piled up alongside the resulting light-colored strip, forming a darker ridge that outlined the lines. Over time, the color of the lines has darkened, making them less contrasting, but the drawings left by the Nazca civilization are still visible today.

In the afternoon, we suggest taking an optional private tour to the city of Ica to visit the impressive Huacachina Lagoon, known as the "Oasis of America". Here, you'll enjoy an exciting adventure in dune buggies through the Ica desert, as well as a visit to a craft distillery of Pisco. There, you'll learn about the traditional methods of producing grape brandy from the port of Pisco.

In the early morning, you'll set sail on a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands. Along the way, you'll be captivated by the mysterious "Chandelier," a massive figure etched into the sand that bears a striking resemblance to the Nazca Lines. Upon reaching the islands, you'll have the chance to observe a diverse array of marine wildlife, including sea lions, pelicans, Humboldt penguins, and various seabirds.

In the 19th century, the Ballestas Islands brought incredible wealth to Peru! The organic waste from birds, known as guano, was the most valuable fertilizer and was prized even more than gold. When the first guano collectors arrived on the islands, the guano layer measured between 65 to 230 feet thick in various places! Although guano collectors still live on the islands today, the volume of guano harvested is not as large as it once was.

Later in the afternoon, you'll depart for Lima via the VIPAC Shuttle service. Upon arrival in Lima, you'll be transferred to your hotel for your stay.

Today's excursion into the world of pre-Inca civilizations begins with a visit to the clay platform at Huaca Rajada, where the world-famous Lord of Sipán was discovered.

The story of this burial's discovery is fascinating: the first to suspect that treasures might be hidden beneath the adobe brick platform were huaqueros (tomb raiders). When the police apprehended one of them carrying a magnificent gold mask inlaid with stones, the Peruvian government organized an archaeological expedition. Archaeologists uncovered the burial site of a majestic Moche ruler, filled with artifacts, jewelry, and symbols of power. This tomb was unlike any previously discovered, far surpassing those of lesser nobles. Beneath the Lord of Sipán’s tomb, an even older burial site of another ruler was found. Genetic analysis revealed that this was one of the earliest governors in Moche history (circa 50 AD) and a direct ancestor of the Lord of Sipán. The significance and wealth of artifacts found in this tomb are comparable only to the tomb of Tutankhamun in Egypt!

Next, you will head to the Tucume Valley of the Pyramids, a complex consisting of 26 clay pyramids. The Tucume pyramids reach heights of nearly 40 meters, with the largest, Huaca Larga ("Long Pyramid"), extending almost 700 meters. The construction of the first pyramids in the Tucume Valley dates back to 700-800 AD, during which time Tucume was considered the capital of the Lambayeque culture. However, historians still debate whether the terms Lambayeque and Sican cultures are equivalent.

Regardless, the indigenous people of that era engaged in vibrant trade, reaching from the Amazon to present-day Ecuador and Colombia, with metallurgy and ceramic products forming the backbone of their trade. By 1375, the Lambayeque culture fell under the control of the Chimú Kingdom, which itself was conquered by the Incas 75 years later. Despite Tucume's significant role in the life of this indigenous group, they abandoned the city of pyramids in 1532. Historians believe their departure was linked to a fire that engulfed Huaca Larga, nearly destroying it. This event cast Tucume into long-term obscurity, with rumors circulating that the place was cursed. To lift the curse, local inhabitants even resorted to human sacrifices. However, the ancient legends of the "fiery serpent" did not deter treasure hunters, the so-called "black archaeologists."

You'll enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you'll have the opportunity to savor the best of traditional cuisine—a diverse and flavorful feast for your palate. To conclude the day, you'll visit the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, also known as the 21st Century Museum. This museum is a precise recreation of the original tomb and houses breathtaking treasures of gold, silver, and precious stones. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.

The duration of the excursion is 8 hours.

In the evening, you'll return to your hotel.

Overnight in Chiclayo.

You'll depart in private transportation to Trujillo, enjoying a scenic three-hour ride through the beautiful valleys. As you reach the Casa Grande sugar hacienda, you'll take a detour to the fascinating El Brujo Archaeological Complex and Museum, famous for the vibrant polychrome friezes that adorn its walls.

El Brujo is an extraordinary site, with three temples from different eras, the oldest being Huaca Prieta, built around 2500 BC. Although this ancient temple is still under excavation and closed to visitors, the surrounding area offers much to explore. You'll also see a large pre-Inca cemetery, a site that holds many secrets yet to be uncovered by archaeologists. This journey through time is sure to leave you inspired.

You'll visit the Huaca Cao Viejo temple and the Señora de Cao Museum, a truly remarkable experience. This temple, dating back to the Moche culture, was built around 200 AD and used until 650 AD. What’s fascinating about Huaca Cao Viejo is that it remains untouched by restoration—its walls and intricate paintings are just as they were centuries ago. As you explore, you'll notice that the temple’s walls have several “layers,” revealing how four different temples were constructed, one on top of the other. It’s an incredible opportunity to see history exactly as it was left by the ancient Moche people.

The Señora de Cao was a powerful ruler of this region, who lived around 350 AD. Her remarkably well-preserved mummy is now on display in the museum at the temple. What’s truly astounding is the condition of her skin, still intact and showcasing the tattoos that once adorned this influential woman. The elaborate burial she received speaks volumes about the immense respect she commanded from her people. Scientists are particularly intrigued by how such a young ruler, only 20-25 years old at the time of her death, earned such reverence.

A female ruler was highly unusual for the Moche culture, making the story of this petite woman—standing just 145 cm tall—all the more mysterious. How she rose to power remains an enigma. The Lady of Cao’s tomb was discovered relatively recently, in 2006. It was buried so deep that it escaped the attention of *huaqueros* (tomb raiders). Her body was wrapped in 26 layers of cloth, and it took scientists a full six months to carefully unwrap the mummy!

Afterward, you'll transfer to your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Trujillo.

Your exploration of Trujillo begins in the city center, where you'll be captivated by the charming colonial mansions adorned with intricate balconies and ornate portals.

From there, you'll head to the Temple of the Moon, an awe-inspiring pyramid temple of the Moche people. Nestled at the base of the White Mountain (Cerro Blanco), this temple is a marvel of ancient architecture, consisting of five temples built directly on top of one another. To reveal the walls of the earlier temples, the more recent structures must be carefully dismantled. The entire temple was once covered in vibrant murals, many of which are still visible today. Restoration experts are meticulously cleaning these ancient paintings, revealing their former glory. Nearby, you'll find a museum showcasing exquisite Moche ceramics and jewelry—masterpieces of delicate craftsmanship.

After your visit, you'll be welcomed by a traditional local family, descendants of the Moche culture, offering you a unique glimpse into the region's living heritage.

Your tour will then continue at the Temple of the Rainbow (Dragon), a fascinating site from the Chimú culture.

For lunch, you'll head to the shores of the Pacific Ocean in the fishing village of Huanchaco. Here, you'll savor delicious seafood and also get the chance to see the famous traditional reed boats, known locally as "caballitos." These iconic boats have been used by fishermen in this region for centuries, offering a glimpse into the enduring traditions of coastal life.

After lunch, you'll continue your deep dive into Peru's history with a visit to the famous clay city of Chan Chan. This ancient city belonged to the Chimú civilization (10th-15th centuries AD) and is considered the largest adobe city in the world. Today, Chan Chan spans 14 square kilometers, though it once covered 20 square kilometers during its peak. The city is home to 10 palace complexes, remnants of its former grandeur. While many parts of Chan Chan are still being excavated, the Nik An palace complex is open for visitors.

Nik An is an enormous area surrounded by a 1,500-meter-long and 10-meter-high wall. Within these walls, the Chimú ruler lived with his entourage and servants, in a space filled with ritual platforms, altars, and storage rooms. Although the city now appears sandy and sun-bleached, like the Temple of the Moon, it was once adorned with colorful murals, traces of which can still be seen in some areas. One of the most striking experiences is wandering through this vast city of sand and suddenly coming upon a pond surrounded by reeds. It's an unexpected sight in the desert, leaving a lasting impression! These ponds were believed to be used for growing totora reeds and for ceremonies related to moon worship. There are around 140 such ponds throughout Chan Chan, adding a fascinating layer to your exploration of this ancient city.

You'll be transferred to the airport to catch your flight back to Lima, where you'll connect with your international flights. Safe travels!

Today, you will explore Cusco.

Cusco is a city steeped in immense history. It served as the capital of the great Inca Empire for 200 years, but archaeological evidence shows that people have lived in this area for over 3,000 years.

Your tour will begin at the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park.

Sacsayhuamán, located on a hill overlooking the main districts of Cusco, was an integral part of the city during the Inca era. The entire city of Cusco was designed in the shape of a puma, with Sacsayhuamán representing the puma's head. Although the Spanish dismantled many of the structures, using the stones to build their churches, the ruins that remain today are still awe-inspiring. The walls, standing 20 to 30 feet tall, are composed of perfectly fitted stone blocks, each weighing between 128 and 200 tons!

Afterwards, we will continue to the Inca sanctuary of Q’enqo, where you’ll discover its remarkable altar for sacrifices, intriguingly carved into the interior of a natural rock formation. Finally, we will arrive at the Puca Pucará lookout, followed by a visit to Tambomachay, a monument renowned for its outstanding architectural design. Tambomachay is considered one of the key elements in the Andean worldview, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between nature and spirituality.

In the afternoon, embark on an exclusive city tour beginning with a visit to San Cristóbal Square, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Cusco. From this vantage point, the city unfolds beneath you, offering a stunning perspective of its historic and modern districts.

Next, we will head to the lively San Pedro Market, a vibrant hub where the local flavors and culture come to life. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of Cusco, exploring stalls brimming with fresh produce, traditional foods, and unique local products that sustain the city’s residents.

Our journey continues to the majestic Qorikancha Temple, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. As you step inside, you’ll be awed by its grandeur, imagining the walls once covered in gold that reflected the divine light.

From there, we will venture to the San Blas neighborhood, known as the artisans’ quarter. Walking down the historic Hatun Rumiyoc Street, you’ll encounter the Palace of Inca Roca, now the Archbishop’s Palace, and take a moment to admire the world-famous Twelve-Angled Stone, a marvel of Inca stonework.

Finally, we will arrive at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, where we will visit The Cathedral. This grand colonial church is home to an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts, each piece a testament to the city’s rich cultural and spiritual history.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast as you prepare to explore the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The crisp mountain air greets you as you journey through this historic and scenic region. Your first stop is a small, picturesque complex where you’ll get up close to Andean camelids—llamas and alpacas—grazing in the valley's grassy fields. Here, local artisans will share their centuries-old dyeing and knitting techniques, allowing you to witness the vibrant process that brings to life the colorful textiles of the Andes.

Continuing on, you’ll reach the lively Pisac Market, a feast for the senses. Stalls overflow with vibrant handwoven goods, ceramics, and intricate silver jewelry, each item echoing the rich culture of the area. Take your time to wander, shop, and soak in the bustling energy. Don’t miss the chance to sample a freshly baked empanada or a slice of warm, fragrant bread from one of the wood-fired ovens—simple yet authentic tastes of the Sacred Valley.

After a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Peruvian flavors, your adventure continues to Ollantaytambo. This small, charming town, still inhabited since the time of the Incas, offers a glimpse into ancient life. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll feel the weight of history. The highlight here is the formidable Inca temple-fortress, perched high on the mountainside. 

Climb the terraces for panoramic views of the valley and beyond—perfect for capturing awe-inspiring photos. The fortress itself, with its massive stone walls and intricate masonry, tells the story of the Inca resistance against the Spanish, adding a layer of intrigue to your visit.

End your day with a relaxing evening at your lodging in the Sacred Valley, surrounded by the serenity of the mountains, where you can reflect on the incredible history and beauty you’ve encountered.

You'll begin your day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas with a visit to the Village of Chinchero, one of the most authentic and colorful places in the region. Known for its traditional weaving, Chinchero is a living testament to the Inca heritage. You'll make a short but enriching stop at a local textile center, where you'll witness skilled women practicing the ancient Inca techniques of dyeing and spinning alpaca wool. This brief visit will offer you a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant cultural traditions that continue to thrive in this picturesque village.

After visiting the Inca plaza and its beautiful colonial church, you'll head to one of the most intriguing sites in the Sacred Valley—Moray. This remarkable Inca site features vast concentric terraces that resemble an ancient amphitheater. But Moray is much more than a visual marvel; it was an advanced agricultural laboratory. The Incas ingeniously used these terraces, each at a different height, to replicate up to 20 distinct microclimates. This allowed them to experiment with growing a variety of crops—grains, vegetables, and even fruits—by adapting them to different conditions. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated agricultural practices of the Inca civilization.

After a delightful lunch at a typical local restaurant (buffet-style), you’ll continue your journey to the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo, the last living village of the Incas. This fascinating site was once conquered by the Inca ruler Pachacuti, who transformed the settlement by demolishing the old structures and constructing new homes and a ceremonial center. Positioned strategically on the route to the jungle, Ollantaytambo holds great historical significance. It was from here that Manco Inca Yupanqui, the leader of the Inca resistance, retreated with his treasures and the mummies of his ancestors to the legendary—and still undiscovered—city of Vilcabamba.

During your visit, you’ll explore the Temple of the Ten Windows, the Bath of the Princess, and the magnificent Sun Temple. As you ascend the heights of Ollantaytambo, you’ll capture postcard-perfect photos of the breathtaking landscape, providing the perfect conclusion to this magical day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. 

Ollantaytambo is remarkable for being one of the very few Inca-era towns still inhabited today. Some of the buildings in the modern town date back to the late 15th century, offering a living connection to the past.

In the evening, you'll board a comfortable tourist train at the Ollantaytambo station, which will take you on a scenic 1.5-hour journey to the village of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel.

You'll spend the night in a cozy hotel in the village of Machu Picchu, resting up for the adventure that awaits you tomorrow.

Depending on the season, your journey will start from either Poroy or Ollantaytambo train station. As the train departs, you'll be treated to a scenic ride through the Peruvian highlands, where the landscape shifts from rugged peaks to lush green valleys. The train winds alongside the Urubamba River, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the river’s winding course, each moment building anticipation.

Your destination is Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, our staff will assist you in boarding the bus that will take you up the winding road to the Lost City of the Incas. The journey offers spectacular views of the Urubamba River and its dramatic canyon, perfectly setting the stage for what awaits at Machu Picchu.

As you arrive at the entrance, the Lost City of the Incas reveals itself in all its enigmatic glory. Machu Picchu existed for just over 100 years before it was abandoned around 1532 when Spanish colonizers invaded the Inca Empire. The inhabitants mysteriously disappeared around this time. One theory suggests that the city, heavily reliant on food supplies from the capital, Cusco, was gradually abandoned due to famine when these supplies were disrupted by the Spanish invaders. Another theory posits that 5,000 commoners left to fight the Spaniards, while 3,000 nobles retreated to the legendary Vilcabamba, taking their treasures with them.

Prepare to be captivated by this ancient citadel, where history and mystery hang thick in the air. Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu will astonish you with its terraces, ceremonial shrines, steep steps, and intricate urban areas, all seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape.

During your guided tour, you’ll explore the sacred temples, royal quarters, and agricultural terraces that once sustained this remarkable city. The energy of this sacred place surrounds you as you walk among the ruins that have endured through the centuries.

After taking in the incredible sights and stories, you'll enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, where you can savor local flavors while reflecting on your experience.

With your visit complete, you'll descend back to Aguas Calientes and board the train for a picturesque return journey to Cusco. As you make your way back to your hotel, the memories of this extraordinary day will linger, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the wonders you've witnessed.

Enjoy a free day in Cusco to explore or relax as you wish. The city offers many cultural, archaeological, and adventure activities. If you're looking for something special, we recommend reserving one of these unforgettable experiences:

• Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain): Take a trek to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, located at 16,400 feet above sea level in the Vilcanota mountain range. The vibrant colors of this natural wonder, with the towering Ausangate peak in the distance, make it one of Cusco’s most iconic sights.

• Kayaking at Huaypo Lake: Spend a peaceful day kayaking on Huaypo Lake, surrounded by stunning views of snowcapped mountains. As you glide through the calm waters, enjoy the serenity and let the natural beauty refresh your energy. A picnic lunch by the lakeshore adds a perfect touch to this relaxing adventure.

Plan and reserve in advance for an amazing day!

Set out on an enchanting journey through the heart of the Andes as you depart for the historic city of Cusco. Your adventure begins with a visit to the Pucara Lithic Museum, a treasure trove of ancient relics from the enigmatic Pucará culture. As you explore the museum, you’ll be captivated by the intricate monoliths, stelas, and animal-shaped sculptures, each piece offering a glimpse into a civilization that thrived centuries ago. Don’t miss the chance to admire the famous Toritos de Pucará, charming multicolored ceramic bulls that symbolize protection, happiness, and fertility—a perfect memento of your visit.

Your journey continues as the tour bus climbs to the highest point of the day, La Raya Pass, perched at an impressive 4,335 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll find yourself standing at the geographical divide between the waters of Lake Titicaca and the Vilcanota River, which eventually feeds into the mighty Amazon. Take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air and marvel at the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast Andean plains—a true testament to the rugged beauty of Peru's highlands.

Pause for a well-deserved lunch, savoring local flavors while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Refreshed, you’ll journey onwards to the ancient town of Raqchi, home to the magnificent Temple of Wiracocha. As you wander among the remnants of this once-majestic structure, the imposing stone foundations of towering columns and walls tell the story of a grand palace dedicated to the Inca deity Wiracocha. The scale and craftsmanship of this temple will transport you back to the height of the Inca Empire, evoking a sense of awe at the civilization's architectural prowess.

The final stop on your cultural odyssey is the picturesque town of Andahuaylillas, where you’ll visit the exquisite Church of San Pedro Apóstol. Often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of America," this hidden gem dazzles with its richly adorned ceilings and walls, covered in vivid murals that depict religious scenes in intricate detail. As you step inside, the warmth of the church's Baroque interior, combined with the artistry of its colonial paintings, will leave you spellbound.

As the sun sets, you’ll arrive in the historic city of Cusco. Transfer to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences. Enjoy a restful night’s stay in preparation for the adventures that await you tomorrow.

Mornings on Lake Titicaca start early. By 5 a.m., the local indigenous people are already out fishing, while you’ll set off on your excursion around 7 a.m.

Your first stop will be the floating Uros Islands, a community made up of over 40 islands. These ancient settlements date back to the pre-Inca era, with the ancestors of the Uros people having lived in the region for centuries. The islands are constructed entirely from the abundant reeds that grow in the lake. The locals use these reeds not only to build their homes and boats but also as fuel and even food. The tour will last about an hour and a half, and you’ll also have the option to take a ride on a traditional reed boat.

Next, sail towards the picturesque Island of Taquile, where the indigenous community proudly preserves its unique Quechua traditions in the midst of a predominantly Aymara region. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with traditional music and dances, followed by a nutritious lunch at a local community restaurant. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and its surroundings.

Conclude the day with a return journey to the port of Puno, where you'll be transferred back to your hotel, reflecting on the enriching cultural experiences of the day.

This day begins with a visit to the fascinating burial site of Sillustani, nestled on the shores of Lake Umayo. Here, you'll marvel at the chullpas, the tower-like tombs erected by the ancient Qollas who once thrived on the Andean plateau. The unique inverted semi-conic construction of these chullpas is sure to captivate you as you delve into the rich history of this ancient civilization.

After exploring Sillustani, you'll head to Juliaca airport to board your flight back to Lima, reflecting on the wonders you've encountered during your exploration of Peru's southern highlights. From the serene beauty of Lake Umayo to the enigmatic history of the chullpas, this experience is bound to leave a lasting impression. 

Next, sail towards the picturesque Island of Taquile, where the indigenous community proudly preserves its unique Quechua traditions in the midst of a predominantly Aymara region. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with traditional music and dances, followed by a nutritious lunch at a local community restaurant. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca and its surroundings.

Conclude the day with a return journey to the port of Puno, where you'll be transferred back to your hotel, reflecting on the enriching cultural experiences of the day.

 Departure transfer to the airport of Lima.

In the morning, you will get acquainted with the city during a sightseeing tour.

The tour will begin with a stop at the Love Park in Miraflores, offering a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. The park features the sculpture "The Kiss" by Victor Delfin, and the Gaudi-style walls are inscribed with phrases from love poems by Peruvian poets. On the way to the historic center, you will pass through the Miraflores district, by the Huaca Pucllana pyramid, a ceremonial center of the Lima culture, and cross the San Isidro district, the financial heart of the city. Here, you will see the Huaca Huallamarca pyramid, an ancient pre-Incan shrine (on Sundays and holidays, the Huaca Huallamarca is visited instead of the Cathedral, which is closed to tourists). You'll stop at the central square, surrounded by the Government Palace, the Municipality, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Cathedral, where the conquistador and founder of Lima, Francisco Pizarro, is buried. Then, you will stroll to the Monastery of Saint Dominic, through whose narrow corridors Saint Martin de Porres and Saint Rose of Lima walked in the 17th century, and where their remains now rest. The tour lasts 3-3.5 hours.

Next you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure.

You can extend your adventure by adding a trip to Cusco or the jungles to this tour. Get in touch with us, and we'll help you plan your journey for a seamless and enjoyable experience.