12-Day The Best of Peru

An Authentic 12-Day Journey Through Peru

Imagine exploring Lima’s historic center, flying over the mysterious Nasca Lines, gazing at sea lions on the Ballestas Islands, and finally standing in awe at Machu Picchu. All this in just over a week and a half. This tour, priced at $2,256 per person, offers a comprehensive itinerary that covers some of Peru’s most iconic sights and cultural treasures. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll experience the country’s diverse landscapes—from coastal deserts to high-altitude lakes and deep canyon walls.

What we love about this experience is its well-balanced itinerary, combining cultural highlights with nature excursions. The included transportation, from buses to trains and flights, ensures you move smoothly between destinations without the stress of planning logistics. Plus, the expert-guided tours and local insights give you a richer understanding of Peru’s history and traditions.

One potential drawback is the tight schedule—some days start early, and the itinerary includes a lot of activities, which might leave little time for rest. If you’re someone who prefers leisurely pacing or time to linger at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those eager to see as much as possible in a short span, the tour offers remarkable value.

This trip suits travelers who are adventure-minded, eager to explore iconic archaeological sites, and comfortable with some early mornings and active days. It’s ideal if you appreciate expert guides who bring history and culture alive, and if you’re ready to experience Peru’s remarkable diversity firsthand.

Key Points

• Diverse destinations: Covers Lima, Nasca, Colca, Titicaca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, offering a full Peruvian experience.
• All-inclusive logistics: Transfers, flights, train rides, and most meals are included, minimizing hassle.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and cultural insights.
• Stunning scenery: From ocean views at Love Park to the depths of Colca Canyon and the ruins at Machu Picchu.
• Active itinerary: Expect early mornings, full days, and some walking, balanced with comfortable accommodations.
• Authentic experiences: Opportunities to interact with local communities, see wildlife, and enjoy regional cuisine.

A Deep Dive into the Peru Adventure

Starting in Lima: The City of Kings

Your journey begins in Lima, a city that balances colonial grandeur with modern vibrancy. After airport pickup, you’ll explore the Centro Histórico, where the grand Main Square houses landmarks like the Cathedral and Government Palace. The inclusion of a tour through Lima’s streets and plazas makes it clear that this is more than just a transit point. You’ll get to see the Huaca Pucllana, an ancient ceremonial center, and Santo Domingo Convent, where saints and history converge.

Reviews praise the guides for their local knowledge and friendliness, with one reviewer mentioning, “We enjoyed the journey and in particular the very kindly and prepared guides! A special mention for Beppe who stayed with us for three days.” This personal touch can make Lima’s busy streets feel more welcoming and less overwhelming.

Nasca: The Mysterious Lines and Islands

Day 2 takes you south to Paracas, but the highlight here is the Nasca Lines overflight—a must-see for any Peru visitor. Flying over these massive geoglyphs, depicting monkeys, hummingbirds, and spiders, is a surreal experience. The admission is included, and reviews emphasize how spectacular and unique this sight is, “a big astronomic calendar,” some believe.

The next day, you’ll cruise the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, pelicans, and penguins. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is a treat, with many reviews highlighting how well-organized and knowledgeable the guides are on the boat tours. One reviewer commented, “On the islands you will be able to observe sea lions, pelicans, Humboldt penguins, and other seabirds,” which adds an authentic wildlife experience.

Arequipa: The White City

Flying into Arequipa, known as the “White City” for its volcanic stone architecture, you’ll explore highlights like the Santa Catalina Monastery and Yanahuara district. Reviewers consistently praise the cultural richness and beautiful architecture, emphasizing the guides’ expertise in explaining the city’s history.

Colca Canyon: The Depths and the Condors

The trip to Colca Canyon is a highlight—one of the deepest in the world. The view of condors at Condor Cross is unforgettable, especially as the birds soar overhead, a moment described as “shocking” and awe-inspiring. The journey through the vicunas reservation offers glimpses of wildlife in their high-altitude habitat.

Guests appreciate the balance of activity and rest, with some optional visits to thermal baths. The early wake-up to see the condors is worth it, as noted by reviews praising the spectacular scenery and authentic villages with colonial churches.

Puno and Lake Titicaca: Living Culture on the Water

From Colca, you’ll travel to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca. The boat tour to the Uros floating islands and Taquile Island offers opportunities to interact with local residents who maintain traditional ways of life. Reviewers loved the friendly Uros inhabitants and the colorful dress and customs on Taquile. One reviewer said, “A great opportunity to explore the island and get the best view of the lake.”

Cusco and the Sacred Valley: The Heart of Inca Culture

The drive from Puno to Cusco is scenic, stopping at Racchi and Andahuaylillas along the way. Once in Cusco, you’ll visit the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress and other Inca sites, with guides offering insightful explanations. Reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Roxane and Louis, who bring local culture alive.

The Sacred Valley exploration includes Ollantaytambo, with its impressive terraces and temples, and Chinchero, known for traditional textiles. This part of the trip showcases Inca engineering and agriculture—and the reviews mention how well-organized and culturally rich these visits are.

Machu Picchu: The Grand Finale

The climax is undoubtedly Machu Picchu—the iconic Inca citadel. The train ride to Aguas Calientes and the bus ascent are smooth, and the site’s incredible terraces and temples do not disappoint. Lunch is included, and the new visitor circuits aim to prevent overcrowding, making your experience more intimate and enjoyable. Multiple reviews mention the energy and awe of standing amid these ancient stones, with guides explaining the site’s history and architecture.

Final Day: Rest and Reflection

After Machu Picchu, you’ll return to Cusco by train, with some free time to relax or explore. The tour wraps up with a transfer back to the airport, leaving you with memories of a comprehensive, adventure-packed journey through Peru.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $2,256 might seem steep, this price includes all transportation, most meals, entrance fees, and expert-guided tours—features that would cost extra if arranged independently. The small group size—capped at 12 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and friendly demeanor, making the experience not just about sightseeing but about connecting with Peru’s soul. Travelers benefit from seamless logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you want a well-organized, comprehensive itinerary that captures the essence of Peru. It suits active travelers comfortable with early mornings and walking, but also those who value expert guidance and authentic cultural encounters. If you’re curious about the mysteries of the Nazca Lines, the spectacle of Machu Picchu, or the lively markets in Cusco, this tour delivers all that with minimal fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but note that the Nazca flight and Machu Picchu visits involve some walking and altitude. Children under 8 are not recommended for the Nazca overflight.

Are flights within Peru included?
No, the tour does not include the domestic flight from Cusco to Lima. You might need to book this separately.

What about meals?
Breakfast is included each day, plus five lunches. Other meals are not included, so you’ll have opportunities to explore local cuisine on your own.

How many travelers are in the group?
Maximum group size is 12, which helps keep things personalized and flexible.

Do I need special medicines for altitude sickness?
Some stops are at high altitude, like Puno and Cusco. It’s wise to bring altitude sickness medication or consult your doctor beforehand.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, all transfers to airports, hotels, railway, and bus stations are included for a hassle-free experience.

What should I expect at Machu Picchu?
You’ll see terraces, temples, and spectacular views, with new visitor circuits in place to improve the experience and protect the site.

Final Thoughts

This 12-day tour offers a rare combination of comfort, logistics, and authentic encounters across Peru’s most treasured sites. From the lively streets of Lima to the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu, you’ll experience the country’s diversity and history in a well-paced, guided journey. The expert guides make complex history engaging, and the inclusion of transportation and many meals offers excellent value for busy travelers.

If you’re seeking an efficient, enriching adventure that covers cultural, archaeological, and natural highlights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate the small-group feel, detailed guidance, and the chance to see Peru’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent blend of organized exploration and authentic culture. It’s perfect if you want to see the highlights with knowledgeable guides, enjoy regional food, and experience Peru’s landscapes and history firsthand. While it demands some early mornings and active days, the richness of the sights and the professionalism of the guides promise a memorable adventure for those eager to explore Peru’s incredible heritage.