SOUTHERN PERU TOUR PACKAGE 12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS

• Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, our staff will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. It is recommended to rest and drink coca leaf or muña tea to help with acclimatization to the altitude (3,399 m.a.s.l.).
• In the afternoon, we will begin the Cusco City Tour, starting at the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial mansions and the impressive Cathedral, which houses paintings from the Cusco School and a main altar carved in silver.
  We will visit Qorikancha or the Temple of the Sun, the most important religious sanctuary of the Inca Empire, over which the Santo Domingo Convent was built.

Visit to the Archaeological Sites Around Cusco

After touring the city, we will head to the hills surrounding Cusco to explore some of the most important archaeological complexes of the Inca legacy, located just minutes from the city. This circuit allows us to understand the greatness of Inca engineering, worldview, and organization.

• Sacsayhuamán:  Our first stop will be Sacsayhuamán, an impressive ceremonial fortress that dominates the city of Cusco from above. This site is famous for its gigantic stone walls, built with blocks that can weigh more than 100 tons, assembled with astonishing precision without the use of mortar.
• Sacsayhuamán was an important religious, military, and ceremonial center, the setting for rituals dedicated to the Sun and major celebrations such as Inti Raymi, which is still reenacted every June 24. From here, we will also enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city of Cusco.
• Q’enqo:  We will continue to Q’enqo, a ceremonial center carved directly into the rock. This site was used for religious and astronomical rituals and stands out for its underground passages, stone-carved channels, and a semicircular amphitheater.
• The Incas used Q’enqo for ceremonies related to Andean cosmology, possibly linked to mummification, ritual sacrifices, and observation of solar phenomena during solstices and equinoxes.
• Puka Pukara:  Our next stop will be Puka Pukara, whose name in Quechua means “Red Fortress,” due to the reddish color its walls acquire at sunset. This complex functioned as a military outpost, control center, and resting place, especially for those entering Cusco through the Antisuyo region.
• From this point, access to the city was controlled, Inca roads were protected, and it also served as lodging for authorities and travelers of the empire.
• Tambomachay:  We will finish the tour at Tambomachay, known as the “Inca’s Bath,” a site dedicated to the worship of water, a sacred element for the Incas. The complex stands out for its fountains and channels of crystal-clear water, which still flow today thanks to a sophisticated hydraulic system.
• Tambomachay is believed to have been a resting place for the Inca elite and a ceremonial space related to purification and water rituals, symbols of life and fertility.

Overnight in Cusco.

• After a refreshing breakfast, we will begin our excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the most important regions of the Inca Empire due to its mild climate, fertile lands, and strategic location between Cusco and Machu Picchu. This valley was considered a sacred space dedicated to agriculture, spirituality, and the development of major Inca urban centers.
• Pisac: Archaeology and Living Tradition: Our first stop will be Pisac, where we will visit its famous artisan market, one of the most traditional in the region. Here you will find colorful handicrafts made by local communities: alpaca textiles, silver jewelry, ceramics, and Andean souvenirs, ideal to take a piece of Cusco’s culture with you.
• Afterward, we will explore the Pisac archaeological complex, strategically located on the mountain. This site stands out for its impressive agricultural terraces, considered a masterpiece of Inca engineering, as well as temples, ceremonial enclosures, and viewpoints with spectacular views of the valley. Our guide will explain the agricultural, astronomical, and spiritual importance of the site.
• Urubamba: Heart of the Sacred Valley:  We will continue our journey to Urubamba, known as the “Valley of the Giant White Corn,” a flagship product of the area since ancient times. Here we will enjoy a buffet lunch at a tourist restaurant, featuring a careful selection of Andean and international dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.
• Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca City:  In the afternoon, we will visit the majestic fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the most important and best-preserved archaeological sites in Peru. This complex served military, religious, and agricultural purposes and was the scene of one of the few Inca victories against the Spanish conquistadors.
• We will walk through its enormous stone terraces, ceremonial temples, water fountains, and original streets that are still in use today, as Ollantaytambo is considered a living Inca city. From the upper part of the complex, we will enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the valley and the town.
• Chinchero: Ancestral Textile Heritage:  On the way back to Cusco, and if time permits, we will visit Chinchero, a charming Andean town located at more than 3,700 m.a.s.l. This place is famous for preserving ancestral textile traditions.
• Here we will meet local women artisans who will show us the traditional process of natural dyeing using plants, minerals, and insects, as well as Andean loom weaving, a practice passed down from generation to generation since Inca times. We will also visit the main square and the archaeological site built over the palace of Inca Túpac Yupanqui.
• Finally, we will return to the city of Cusco with unforgettable memories of a day full of history, spectacular landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters.

Return to Cusco and overnight.

• Start of the experience: We begin the tour with hotel pickup (morning shift only) between 6:10 am and 6:50 am to head by tourist transport for approximately 50 minutes to the village of Cruzpata, located in a rural area ideal for this adventure activity.
• In the afternoon shift, the meeting point is at Plaza Regocijo (hotel pickup not included; if required, a taxi can be arranged at an additional cost).
• ATV practice and riding: Upon arrival in Cruzpata, our professional guide will provide a safety briefing and basic driving instructions. We will have practice time to familiarize ourselves with the Honda TRX 250 ATVs, automatic, safe and easy-to-drive vehicles.
• Once ready, we begin the ride toward the Moray archaeological complex.
• Moray – Experimental Agricultural Terraces: We will enjoy an ATV ride of approximately 2 hours round trip crossing Andean fields, rural paths and beautiful natural landscapes.
• We arrive at Moray, a fascinating archaeological center made up of concentric circular terraces that functioned as an Inca agricultural laboratory. Here you will be able to explore the site, learn about its historical importance and capture incredible photographs.
• Maras Salt Mines: After returning to Cruzpata with the ATVs, we continue by tourist transport to the Maras Salt Mines (for safety reasons, this section is not done by ATV).
• During the journey we will appreciate the majestic Verónica Snow Peak and Chicón Snow Peak, accompanied by an impressive Andean landscape.
• The Salt Mines are made up of more than 3,000 salt pools exploited since pre-Inca times. Here we will learn about the traditional salt extraction process still maintained by local families.
• Return to Cusco: After finishing the tour, we begin the return to the city of Cusco. The tour ends at Plaza Regocijo approximately at 1:00 pm (morning shift) or 7:00 pm (afternoon shift).

INCLUDES:

• Tourist transport round trip
• Honda TRX 250 ATVs
• Fuel
• Safety helmet
• Gloves
• Professional bilingual guide
• First aid kit
• From 5 passengers: assistant guide

Overnight in Cusco.

• Very early we will head to the train station to board the panoramic tourist service that will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes. During the journey, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience as you travel through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and gradually enter the Andean cloud forest, observing impressive landscapes, mountains, rivers, and picturesque Andean villages.
• Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our representative will assist us in boarding the tourist bus that ascends along a winding road to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
• We will begin a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, led by our specialized local guide, who 0will explain the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of the main sectors of the citadel.
• After the visit, we will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and later board the return tourist train. Upon arrival at the station, our transportation will transfer us back to the city of Cusco.

Overnight in Cusco.

Important Information about Entrance to Machu Picchu

• Entrance is subject to availability and to the official circuits established by the Ministry of Culture of Peru.
• Spaces are limited per day.
• It is recommended to make the reservation at least 3 months in advance, especially during high season (April to October).
• Once issued, Machu Picchu entrance tickets do not allow date changes, name changes, or refunds, in accordance with official regulations.

Overnight in Cusco.

• Very early, we will depart from Cusco toward the south, passing through picturesque high-Andean communities until reaching Cusipata, where we will enjoy a hearty breakfast to start the day with energy.
• We will then continue by transport to the starting point of the hike. From there, we will begin an ascent of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), located at more than 5,000 m.a.s.l. This natural phenomenon is the result of mineral sedimentation over millions of years, forming a unique landscape with stripes of red, turquoise, green, yellow, and gold, guarded by the imposing Ausangate mountain range.
• At the summit, we will have time to admire the spectacular scenery, breathe the pure Andean air, take unforgettable photographs, and enjoy the tranquility of this magical place.
• We will then begin the descent along the same trail back to the starting point and transfer to Cusipata, where a buffet lunch with typical regional dishes awaits us.
• Finally, we will return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Overnight in Cusco.

• Departure from Cusco
  Very early, we will begin our journey by tourist bus toward the city of Puno. Along the way, we will make stops at historical and natural sites that allow us to discover the greatness of Andean heritage.
• Andahuaylillas:  Our first stop will be in the charming town of Andahuaylillas, famous for the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, known as the “Sistine Chapel of America.” Its impressive Baroque murals and valuable collection of religious art make this place a true cultural treasure.
• Raqchi – Temple of Wiracocha: Continuing the journey, we will visit the impressive archaeological center of Raqchi, dedicated to the god Wiracocha. Here we will see the remains of a massive ceremonial temple, as well as residential enclosures and storage facilities that demonstrate the strategic importance of this site during Inca times.
• Buffet Lunch in Sicuani:  We will stop to enjoy a buffet lunch featuring a selection of typical Andean dishes, ideal for regaining energy and continuing the journey.
• La Raya – Andean Mountain Pass:  The highest point of the route (4,335 m.a.s.l.) offers spectacular scenery surrounded by snow-capped mountains, wide valleys, and herders with llamas and alpacas. This is the perfect place to capture memorable photos of the Andean highlands.
• Pukará (Optional according to the program):  Before arriving in Puno, there is the option to visit the Pukará Museum, which preserves a collection of pre-Inca artifacts, as well as the famous sculptures and ceramics of this ancient culture.
• Arrival in Puno:  In the evening, we will arrive in the city of Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Our representative will be waiting at the bus station and will transfer you to your hotel for rest.

Overnight in Puno.

2 Days / 1 Night Community-Based Tour

Day 1: Puno – Uros Floating Islands – Amantaní Island

• After breakfast, we will begin our journey across Lake Titicaca (3,812 m / 12,507 ft), considered the highest navigable lake in the world and one of the most important cultural spaces of the Andean Altiplano.
• Our first visit will be to the Uros Floating Islands, impressive artificial platforms built from totora reeds, an aquatic plant that grows in the lake. Here, we will learn about the ancestral traditions, social organization, and way of life of the Uros people, who preserve ancient techniques for building their homes, boats, and handicrafts.
• We will continue sailing to Amantaní Island, one of the most authentic islands on the lake, characterized by its tranquility and strong cultural identity. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed by local families who will host us in their homes, offering a genuine community-based tourism experience.
• In the afternoon, we will take a light walk around the island, enjoying agricultural terraces, natural landscapes, and panoramic lake views. Optionally, we will hike up to the pre-Inca temples of Pachatata or Pachamama, where you can enjoy an unforgettable sunset.
• In the evening, we will share a traditional dinner prepared with local products and participate in cultural activities with the host family.

Overnight in a family home on Amantaní Island

Day 2: Amantaní Island – Taquile Island – Return to Puno

• After a traditional Andean breakfast with the host family, we will say goodbye and continue our navigation to Taquile Island, internationally recognized for its extraordinary textile tradition, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
• On Taquile, we will take a guided walk along ancient Inca paths while learning about the community organization, local customs, and the deep symbolism of their textiles, which are woven exclusively by the men of the island.
• We will enjoy a typical lunch made with fresh products from the lake, accompanied by spectacular panoramic views of Lake Titicaca. Free time for photos and the purchase of authentic handicrafts.
• In the afternoon, we will board our boat back to the city of Puno, concluding this unique cultural experience.

Accommodation: Hotel in Puno.

• The overland journey between Puno and Arequipa offers one of the most scenic routes in southern Peru. Along the way, travelers cross the Collao Plateau and vast high-altitude puna regions, at more than 4,000 meters (13,123 ft) above sea level, where nature reveals itself in its most authentic state.
• During the trip, wide Andean plains, gentle hills, and mountains stretching to the horizon can be observed. Natural grasslands in golden tones contrast with the intensely blue sky, creating unique panoramic views.
• During the rainy season, the landscape is renewed with bofedales (highland wetlands), high-altitude lagoons, and green areas, bringing life and color to the Altiplano.
• As the journey approaches Arequipa, the scenery changes and the region’s emblematic volcanoes appear, highlighting the imposing Misti Volcano, accompanied by Chachani and Pichu Pichu, natural guardians of the White City.

Altiplano wildlife. This route allows travelers to observe Andean wildlife in its natural habitat, especially in the most open areas of the journey. It is common to see:

• Vicuñas, the national symbol of Peru, along with llamas and alpacas grazing on the plains.
• Vizcachas, which inhabit rocky formations.
• High-Andean birds such as flamingos (parihuanas), Andean geese (huallatas), wild ducks, and occasionally the majestic Andean condor soaring through the skies.

Culture and rural life. The road reveals small highland communities, herds of camelids, and traditional homes built of stone and adobe. These scenes reflect an ancestral way of life, deeply connected to the land and the natural environment.

• After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our tour of the so-called “White City”, famous for its buildings made of volcanic sillar stone and its impressive natural setting surrounded by volcanoes.
• We will start with pickup from the Main Square (Plaza de Armas) and hotels in the historic center between 30 and 15 minutes before the departure time.
• Yanahuara.
  A traditional neighborhood whose historic area features narrow streets characterized by their picturesque Spanish style. It is home to one of the most outstanding churches of regional mestizo art, built in 1750. The square has a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and its three volcanoes: Misti (5,825 m.a.s.l.), Chachani (6,075 m.a.s.l.), and Pichu Pichu (5,554 m.a.s.l.). Nearby, we will also find local handicraft centers.
• Carmen Alto Viewpoint.
  Located within the traditional district of Cayma, in the village of Carmen Alto, from where we can admire the agricultural terraces (andenes), which form the cultivation area and the course of the Chili River. The climate here is pleasant and healthy, with pure air; an ideal place for recovery and rest. Orchards and fruit trees abound in this area.
• Incalpaca Factory and Mini Zoo.
  Incalpaca offers export-quality alpaca garments of the highest standard, with outlet discounts of up to 50%. It also features a mini zoo where different species of South American camelids are exhibited, such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos.
• We will pass through the district of Sachaca, where we can observe the Goyeneche Palace and the Tingo spa area.
• Founder’s Mansion (Mansión del Fundador).
  Built 10 km from the main square, this colonial-style mansion is linked by legend to the founder of the city and other distinguished historical figures. Today, it preserves beautiful interiors with art pieces, furniture from different periods, and a variety of collectible objects.
• Sabandía.
  Here we will admire beautiful agricultural terraces, a traditional hydraulic mill, and we will also find adventure activities such as horseback riding, available at an additional cost.
• Return to the historic center.

Overnight in Arequipa.

• Very early in the morning, we will depart from Arequipa toward the impressive Colca Canyon, considered one of the deepest canyons in the world, with depths of over 4,000 meters in some areas. Along the route, we will cross unique Andean landscapes, observing the transition from the desert areas of Arequipa to the high plains covered with ichu grass, habitat of Andean camelids such as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
• Our first stop will be in the town of Chivay (3,600 m.a.s.l.), the capital of the Colca Valley, where we will enjoy a traditional breakfast to regain energy before continuing the journey.
• Then we will head to the famous Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, the most anticipated highlight of the tour. From this spectacular natural balcony, we will have the opportunity to admire the majestic flight of the Andean condor, a sacred bird for pre-Inca and Inca cultures, which spreads its enormous wings (up to 3 meters in wingspan) while gliding on the thermal air currents of the canyon. From this point, we will also enjoy unparalleled views of the depth of the valley and the pre-Inca agricultural terraces that are still used by local communities today.
• On the return route, we will make brief stops in picturesque traditional villages of the Colca Valley, such as Maca and Yanque, where we can visit colonial churches, observe traditional dances, and learn more about the daily life of the inhabitants, who keep their ancestral customs alive.
• At midday, we will return to Chivay to enjoy a buffet lunch featuring typical regional dishes, including local products such as trout, alpaca meat, and quinoa.
• Finally, we will begin our return to the city of Arequipa, once again enjoying the high-Andean landscapes and natural viewpoints such as Patapampa, located at 4,910 m.a.s.l., known as the “Viewpoint of the Andes”, from where we can admire the main volcanoes and snow-capped mountains of the region.
• Arrival in Arequipa in the afternoon and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Arequipa.

• The time has come to say goodbye, but we leave with the great satisfaction of having shared this unforgettable journey through Southern Peru with you.
• Over the past 12 days, you have discovered breathtaking landscapes, ancient cultures, living traditions, and the warm hospitality of our people. It has been a true pleasure to accompany you and to help create meaningful experiences that will remain in your memories for a lifetime.
• Peru will always welcome you back with open arms.
• Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to Arequipa Airport for your return flight.

End of our services.