15 day Peru tour: Lima Machu Picchu Arequipa Titicaca and Ica
A 15-day trip exploring Lima, Machu Picchu, Colca, Titicaca, Nazca, Huacachina and Ballestas, from colonial cities to Inca ruins and unique landscapes.
5,036 m / 16,522 ft
2 to 5 stars
Small group
Daily departures
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRIP
Your adventure begins in Lima, a city of contrasts between modern and colonial. You’ll dive into the magic of the south with the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, and a flight over the Nazca Lines, before crossing the volcanoes that lead you to Arequipa and the imposing Colca Canyon.
Then, the highlands await. In Puno and Lake Titicaca, you’ll meet living cultures that have defied time. Finally, you’ll arrive in the ancient capital of the Inca Empire: Cusco. From here, you’ll walk among sacred temples, ancient villages, the Sacred Valley, and end your journey at Peru’s most treasured jewel: Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
Throughout every stage, Illa Kuntur Travel & Wellness will take care of every detail so that you enjoy a comfortable, safe, and deeply enriching experience. You won’t return the same.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Welcome to Lima – City of Kings
Your adventure begins with your arrival in the Peruvian capital. You will explore the charming district of Barranco, filled with murals, artists, and ocean views. Then, a visit to Huaca Pucllana will connect you with the pre-Hispanic origins of this city. The historic center awaits with its Plaza de Armas and Lima’s Cathedral.
Heading to Paracas – A Break by the Sea
Enjoy a free morning in Lima. Then, you will head south to Paracas, a peaceful destination where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean. The calm of the place announces the excitement of what is to come.
Wine, and Adrenaline – Ballestas Islands, Ica, and Huacachina
Sail to the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions and seabirds. In Ica, a visit to a local vineyard will reveal the secrets of Peruvian pisco. The day ends in the desert: Huacachina, where sandboarding and dune buggies bring pure excitement. In the late afternoon/evening, we travel to Nazca.
Flying Over the Mystery – Nazca Lines and Journey to Arequipa
A flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines will reveal one of the greatest archaeological enigmas in the world. Afterwards, you will head to Arequipa, the White City, nestled among volcanoes.
Arequipa / Sillar Route / Arequipa
Reception and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, tour the Sillar Quarries, Culebrillas Ravine, and Yanahuara Viewpoint to learn about the origins of Arequipa’s white architecture. Return and overnight in the city.
Arequipa / Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve / Chivay
Departure from Arequipa towards Chivay, crossing the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve, where you can spot vicuñas, alpacas, and high Andean landscapes. Arrival in Chivay and hotel check-in.
Flight of the Condor / Cruz del Condor / Arequipa and Trip to Puno
At dawn, witness the flight of the Andean condor from the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Continue your journey discovering authentic villages and traditions that have lasted for centuries. Return to Arequipa.
Myth and Tradition – Lake Titicaca, Uros, and Taquile
Sail the sacred waters of Titicaca, visit the floating islands of the Uros, and be amazed by the living history of Taquile, where textile art is recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Route of the Sun – Pucará, Raqchi, and Andahuaylillas on the Way to Cusco
A scenic and cultural journey to Cusco, with stops in Pucará, Raqchi (the temple of the god Wiracocha), and Andahuaylillas, whose church is known as the “Sistine Chapel of America.”
City Tour in Cusco / Historical Tour to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo
Discover the fusion of two worlds at the Cathedral, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), and the Inca fortresses of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay.
Sacred Valley / Pisac / Ollantaytambo / Train to Aguas Calientes
Travel to the Sacred Valley, with its special energy. Visit Pisac with its terraces and markets, and the fortress of Ollantaytambo. In the afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes.
Visit to Machu Picchu / Return to Cusco
The highlight of the trip: Machu Picchu, the sacred city of the Incas. Walk through its temples, terraces, and paths with the guidance of an expert. In the afternoon, return to Cusco.
Hike to Rainbow Mountain
A unique adventure at over 5,000 m.a.s.l., where after a hike you will enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscapes and the famous mountain with its magical natural colors.
Free Day in Cusco / Return to Lima
Flight from Cusco to Lima. Free day to explore the last corners or relax in the capital.
Free Day in Lima / Transfer to the Airport / Farewell
Breakfast and transfer to the international airport. Take with you a suitcase full of memories… and your heart full of Peru.
Itinerary Travel Package to Peru in 15 days
Day 1: Welcome to Lima - City of Kings
- Upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Lima.
- In the afternoon, we will take a city tour visiting the bohemian district of Barranco with the Bridge of Sighs, Miraflores with the Love Park and views of the Pacific Ocean, and the Historic Center of Lima (World Heritage Site), including the Main Square, Cathedral, Government Palace, and main monuments.
- Accommodation: Lima hotel.
Day 2: Heading to Paracas - A break by the sea
- After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you will have the morning free to explore Lima at your own pace. You can visit a museum, relax at a café, or wander around the nearby areas.
- At 12:20 p.m., we will transfer you to the Cruz del Sur bus terminal to board a comfortable bus to Paracas. The journey of approximately 4 hours will take us along the Pan-American Highway South, offering panoramic views of the arid coastal landscape.
- Upon arrival in Paracas at 4:45 p.m., our private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you can settle in and rest.
- The evening will be free for you to explore this charming coastal town at your own pace.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Paracas.
Day 03: Paracas + Ballestas Islands + Ica + Huacachina + Nasca
- You will take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and seabirds. Along the way, you will see the enigmatic Paracas Candelabra, a geoglyph etched into the desert hillside.
- You will travel by bus to Ica to visit the El Catador winery, where you will taste regional pisco and wines. You will then continue to the Huacachina Oasis, an impressive lagoon surrounded by sand dunes in the middle of the desert.
- You will enjoy an adventure in buggies across the dunes and try sandboarding to slide down the sand (optional for those seeking adrenaline).
- You will take a night bus to Nazca, where you will spend the night at a hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Nazca.
Day 04: Flying over the mystery + Nazca Lines + Maria Reiche's Museum + Flight to Arequipa
- In the morning, we will transfer you to the airfield to take a small plane flight over the Nazca Lines, an impressive spectacle where you will see figures such as the Monkey, the Hummingbird, the Spider, and the Astronaut.
- After the flight and the visit to the Maria Reiche Museum, we will have free time for lunch before taking you to the bus station to board a bus to Arequipa, traveling comfortably for approximately 9 hours along the Panamericana Norte highway.
- Upon arrival in Arequipa at around 10:00 p.m., our private transport will be waiting for you at the Arequipa bus terminal to take you to your hotel in Arequipa, where you will enjoy a well-deserved rest at the foothills of the Misti Volcano.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel in Nazca.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Arequipa.
Day 05: Arrival to Arequipa + Yanahuara Viewpoint + Culebrillas Gorge + Sillar Quarries
- You will arrive in Arequipa and be transferred to your selected hotel.
- You will have the morning free to have breakfast and walk around the city. In the afternoon, you will take the Sillar Route tour.
- You will start at the Yanahuara Viewpoint and Main Square, where you will enjoy panoramic views of Misti Volcano and the White City.
- You will continue to the Añashuayco quarry, the main extraction area of sillar, the volcanic stone characteristic of Arequipa. You will see the stonemasons at work and be able to take photos with impressive stone carvings.
- You will visit the Culebrillas ravine, a canyon with natural formations where you will take a short walk. The play of light and shadow creates an ideal setting for photographs.
- You will see the ancient petroglyphs of the Wari culture, carvings that reflect the ancestral legacy of the region.
- You will return to Arequipa at the end of the tour.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Arequipa.
Day 06: To the Heart of the Andes - Colca Canyon + Chivay
- After breakfast at your hotel, you will depart for one of the deepest canyons in the world.
- On the way to the Colca Valley, you will pass through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can observe vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas in their natural habitat.
- Upon arrival in Chivay, you will enjoy lunch with regional flavors prepared with local products from the traditional Arequipa cuisine.
- You will head to your selected hotel to rest and acclimate to the altitude.
- In the afternoon, you may visit the La Calera hot springs, known for their medicinal properties. Soaking in the hot waters surrounded by mountains is ideal to revitalize your body after the trip.
- You will rest at your hotel, getting ready for the experience of the next day at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Chivay.
Day 07: The flight of the condor - Cruz del Condor and return to Arequipa
- After breakfast at your hotel in Chivay, you will head to the Cruz del Cóndor, the best viewpoint to observe the flight of the Andean condor. From this point, you will appreciate the depth of the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world.
- On the way back to Chivay, you will make several stops:
- Observation of pre-Inca agricultural terraces that are still in use.
- Panoramic view of the Three Colors Lagoon.
- Visit to archaeological remains and traditional villages.
- Visit to local handicraft centers.
- Tasting of Colca Sour, a typical drink made with local fruits.
- You will enjoy a typical lunch in Chivay.
- In the afternoon, you will return to Arequipa (approximate arrival 5:00 p.m.), with free time to stroll around the Main Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- At night, you will travel by bus to Puno (6 to 7 hours journey).
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Puno.
Day 08: Puno + Lake Titicaca + Uros Island + Taquile + Puno
- You will arrive in Puno around 5:30 a.m. and be transferred to your hotel to rest briefly before starting your experience on the highest navigable lake in the world.
- At approximately 7:00 a.m., you will begin the Lake Titicaca tour.
- You will visit the Uros Islands, built entirely of totora reeds. The local residents will show you their ancestral way of life and age-old traditions.
- You will then continue to Taquile Island, renowned for its textiles, which have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Its inhabitants will share their customs and hospitality with you.
- You will enjoy an included local lunch on the island, prepared with regional products.
- At approximately 4:00 p.m., you will return by boat to Puno.
- You will go back to the hotel, with the evening free to walk around the city.
- Meals: Lunch.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Puno.
Day 09: Ruta del Sol - Pucará, Raqchi and Andahuaylillas en route to Cusco
- After breakfast at the hotel, you will head to the Turismo Mer bus terminal to begin the tourist bus journey to Cusco, following the Route of the Sun.
- Along the way, you will make stops at emblematic sites:
- Pucará Museum: cradle of the pre-Inca culture, famous for its traditional ceramic “toritos.”
- La Raya: the highest point of the route (4,335 m / 14,222 ft), with stunning views of mountains and snow-capped peaks.
- Raqchi: an Inca archaeological complex dedicated to the god Wiracocha, with impressive walls and ceremonial structures.
- Andahuaylillas: known as the “Sistine Chapel of America” for its church decorated with murals and baroque altars.
- At approximately 5:00 p.m., you will arrive in Cusco, where you will be transferred by private transport to your selected hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast and buffet lunch.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.
Day 10: Cusco + Qoricancha + Sacsayhuaman + Qenqo + Pucapucara + Tambomachay
- We will start the day with breakfast at the hotel. The morning will be free for you to enjoy the city of Cusco at your own pace, strolling through its colonial streets, squares, and traditional markets.
-
In the afternoon, we will begin the City Tour, an experience that combines Inca history and colonial architecture:
- Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun: one of the most sacred sites of the Inca Empire, with finely carved stone walls.
- Sacsayhuamán: an impressive archaeological complex that stands out for its enormous, perfectly fitted stone walls.
- Qenqo: a ceremonial center with altars carved into the rock.
- Puka Pukara: an ancient military construction that protected the entrance to the city.
- Tambomachay: known as the Temple of Water for its ceremonial fountains.
-
At approximately 6:30 p.m., we will return to the city of Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.
Day 11: Sacred Valley + Pisac + Ollantaytambo + Train to Aguas Calientes
- After breakfast at your hotel, you will begin the excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- You will visit Pisac, where you will walk through its handicraft market and explore its archaeological complex with agricultural terraces and panoramic views of the valley.
- You will then continue to Urubamba to enjoy a buffet lunch featuring specialties of Andean cuisine.
- In the afternoon, you will visit the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress that still preserves streets and buildings in use.
- After the visit, you will head to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
- In the afternoon, you will board the Voyager train to Aguas Calientes (you must arrive at the station in advance).
- Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, a representative will meet you and accompany you to the hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast and buffet lunch.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 12: Aguas Calientes + Machu Picchu + Aguas Calientes + Cusco
- After breakfast, our private guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the Ecological Bus Station for your ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu at the reserved time (check availability).
- You will visit the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu, exploring its main sectors together with an expert guide.
- After the tour, you will return to the town of Aguas Calientes and have enough time for lunch. At the indicated time, you must head to the Aguas Calientes train station.
- Departure of the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure).
- Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, you will be taken to the transport that will bring you back to Cusco.
- We will drop you off at the door of your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.
Day 13: Cusco + Cusipata + Pitumarca + Colored Mountain + Cusipata + Cusco
- Around 4:30 a.m., you will leave your hotel in Cusco toward Rainbow Mountain. The trip in a tourist vehicle will take you through high Andean landscapes to Cusipata, where you will enjoy an energizing breakfast.
- From Pitumarca, you will begin the hike to Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, located at over 5,000 m.a.s.l. During the ascent, you will see llamas, alpacas, snow-capped peaks, and local communities.
- After approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of hiking, you will reach Rainbow Mountain. From the top, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range and the Ausangate snow-capped peak.
- After taking photos, you will begin the descent. On the way back, you will stop in Cusipata to enjoy a buffet lunch with typical Andean dishes.
- In the afternoon, you will return to Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m.
- Meals: Breakfast and buffet lunch.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.
Day 14: Cusco + Airport + Return to Lima + Hotel in Lima
- This day you will be able to explore the imperial city at your own pace: stroll through its stone streets, visit museums, try its cuisine, or simply relax before your flight.
- At the scheduled time, we will pick you up at the hotel and take you to the Cusco airport to board your flight to Lima.
- Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, a representative will welcome you and transfer you to your reserved hotel in Lima.
-
You will have the afternoon free to rest at the hotel or go out to explore the Peruvian capital, famous for its gastronomy, historic center, and views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Lima.
Day 15: End of the trip - See you soon, Peru!
- At the scheduled time, our team will transfer you to Jorge Chávez International Airport to board your return flight.
-
We hope this experience has been unforgettable and that you take home the best memories of your trip through Peru.
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel.
INCLUDES – NOT INCLUDED – DETAILS
Includes
- 2 nights in a hotel in Lima
- 1 night in a hotel in Paracas
- 1 night in a hotel in Nazca
- 2 nights in a hotel in Arequipa
- 2 nights in a hotel in Puno
- 4 nights in a hotel in Cusco
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Lima City Tour
- Tour to the Huacachina Oasis
- Nazca Lines overflight experience
- 2-day Colca Canyon tour
- Arequipa City Tour
- Lake Titicaca Tour
- Route of the Sun from Puno to Cusco
- Imperial Cusco City Tour + transfers
- Excursion to the Sacred Valley with buffet lunch + Aguas Calientes
- Private visit to Machu Picchu with a specialized guide | Private service.
- Rainbow Mountain tour
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (it is recommended to book 2 to 3 months in advance).
- Sleeper bus from Lima to Paracas (4 h 4 min trip)
- Sleeper bus from Ica to Nazca (2 h 41 min trip)
- Sleeper bus from Nazca to Arequipa (10 h 2 min trip)
- Sleeper bus from Arequipa to Puno (7 h trip)
- Entrance tickets to Colca Canyon
- Round-trip tourist train: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Ecological bus: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Entrance tickets to all archaeological sites included in the program
- Pickup and transfer: Airport – hotel in Lima
- Pickup and transfer: Bus terminal – hotel in Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco.
- 12 lunches included.
- 06 lunches included.
- 01 dinner included.
- 24-hour continuous assistance in Spanish and English
- Professional guides for all activities
- Bilingual service upon prior request
- Personalized concierge service to accompany you every step of the trip
Not included
National and International Flights:
- Airfare to/from Peru.
- Domestic flights between Lima and Cusco.
Meals Not Specified:
- Lunches and dinners throughout the trip (except where specified).
- Breakfasts at hotels that do not include them.
Personal Expenses:
- Shopping, souvenirs, tips, and optional activities.
- Drinks and snacks outside of the included meals.
Optional Excursions (Additional Cost):
- Maras Salt Mines and Moray – USD 25.
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) – USD 35.
- Humantay Lake – USD 35.
Travel Insurance:
- Does not include medical or travel assistance insurance.
What to bring?
- Original passport
- Drinking water (1.5 liters per day)
- Camera with memory card and charged battery
- Rain poncho (depending on the time of year)
- Warm clothing
- Basic personal hygiene items
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen, hat, and UV-protection sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- ISIC student card if applicable
- Cash
About trains to Machu Picchu
PeruRail’s most economical tourist service. It offers comfortable seats, large windows, and an atmosphere inspired by Inca culture, ideal for travelers seeking a practical option.
Service with panoramic windows on walls and ceiling, allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape. Includes complimentary snacks and drinks, sometimes with dance shows and fashion parades.
An exclusive and sophisticated train that adds an **observatory car** with balcony and live show to the Vistadome panoramic experience. Offers unparalleled views.
Inca Rail’s most economical tourist service. Offers a simple and authentic journey with comfortable seats and attentive service, celebrating the pleasure of discovery.
Features taller and wider panoramic windows. Includes an open-air observatory car and onboard entertainment system, ideal for 360-degree views.
A luxury service offering maximum comfort and exclusivity. Enjoy spacious seating, live music, and a connection with authentic Peruvian cultural expressions.
Recommendations for your trip
Health Recommendations
- Inform the agency and your doctor if you have heart or respiratory problems, high blood pressure, are pregnant, or have any other chronic condition before participating in demanding activities or high-altitude tours.
- It is recommended to prevent altitude sickness by following the agency’s guidance (prior acclimatization, good hydration, avoiding intense physical effort and alcohol consumption during the first days).
- Bring enough personal medication for the entire trip (regular treatments and, if necessary, a medical prescription).
- Some destinations may have sudden weather changes between day and night; it is recommended to bring light clothing for the day and warm layers for early mornings and nighttime.
- Avoid very heavy meals and drink coca tea or muña tea to help your body adapt.
Travel Rules and Recommendations
- Respect local regulations and always follow the guide’s instructions and the established routes for the safety of the entire group.
- During the trip, we recommend keeping your belongings in sight at all times and avoiding showing large amounts of money or high-value items.
- In any risky or emergency situation, contact our team immediately or call the local emergency numbers.
TRAVEL PRICES
|
PERU TRAVEL PACKAGE IN 15 DAYS Lima, Machu Picchu, Colca, Titicaca, Nazca, Ica, Huacachina, and Ballestas Islands Price Per Person - Minimum 2 people |
|
|
GROUP SERVICE (Without Hotel)
Tours + Entrance Fees + Transfers
Voyager or Expedition Train
|
US$ 1469.00 |
|
GROUP SERVICE
Tours + Entrance Fees + Transfers + ⭐⭐ Hotels
In Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes
Voyager or Expedition Train
|
US$ 1779.00 |
|
GROUP SERVICE
Tours + Entrance Fees + Transfers + ⭐⭐⭐ Hotels
In Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes
Voyager or Expedition Train
|
US$ 1889.00 |
|
PREMIUM SERVICE
Tours + Entrance Fees + Transfers + ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hotels
In Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes
Luxury Panoramic Train
|
US$ 2430.00 |
Special Rates
- 1 person: Personalized quote
- Groups of 3+ people: Group discount
- Children: Special discount
RECOMMENDED HOTELS
Recommended Tours for You
Here are similar options that are highly chosen by other travelers
15 day Peru tour: Lima Machu Picchu Arequipa Titicaca and Ica1