15-Day Peru Tour from Lima Including Paracas, Arequipa and Puno

Experience Peru’s Most Dramatic Sights on a 15-Day Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins without the hassle of planning every detail, this 15-day guided tour from Lima might be just what you need. For around $1,905 per person, you’ll travel from the bustling capital through coastal parks, high-altitude lakes, and legendary archaeological sites, all with organized transportation, accommodation, and expert guides.

What we love about this tour is how it blends guided excursions with free time, allowing you to soak in the sights at your own pace. The included entrance fees mean no surprise costs, and the airport pickup on arrival makes stepping into this adventure feel seamless. Plus, the variety of landscapes—high peaks, coastal wetlands, and ancient ruins—keeps each day fresh and exciting.

A couple of considerations are worth noting: the tour involves multiple long bus rides, some up to six hours, which could be tiring for some travelers. Also, accommodations are 3-star hotels, which are perfectly comfortable but not luxurious—ideal for travelers who value authenticity and practicality over five-star pampering.

This tour is best suited for active travelers with moderate physical fitness who want a rundown of Peru’s highlights without the stress of logistical planning. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, and a well-balanced mix of guided and independent exploration.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, Cusco, and Machu Picchu.
• Guided tours combined with free time for personal exploration.
• All entrance fees included, avoiding hidden costs.
• Transport and accommodations organized, with airport pickup for ease.
• Long bus rides are part of the experience—be prepared for extended travel days.
• Ideal for travelers with moderate fitness and a love for history and landscapes.

A Detailed Look at the 15-Day Peru Tour

Starting in Lima: The Gateway to Peru

Your adventure begins the moment you land in Lima, where an English-speaking guide will greet you at the airport. This initial meet-and-greet sets a relaxed tone, making your arrival smooth and worry-free. You’ll settle into a hotel in Lima, giving you time to adjust or rest after your journey.

Lima itself is a city with vibrant neighborhoods, but on this tour, the focus is on setting the stage for the adventures ahead. Expect a brief overview of what’s to come, and if you arrive early, there’s ample opportunity to explore the city’s lively culinary scene or historic center on your own.

Day 2-3: Coastal Wonders in Paracas and the Ballestas Islands

A 3.5-hour bus ride whisks you south to Paracas, a small coastal town renowned for its wetlands and birdlife. We loved the way this part of the trip introduces Peru’s diverse geography—moving from city streets to dramatic coastlines.

On Day 3, a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands offers a close-up view of sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. The boat trip is a highlight, with the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s a relaxed, scenic outing that adds a splash of wildlife to the journey.

Day 4: Nazca Lines from Above

The next morning, you’ll take a bus to Nazca, a place famous for its enigmatic geoglyphs. The real treat here is the optional 30-minute airplane flight over the Nazca Lines. This aerial view is often described as surreal—seeing the enormous figures etched into the desert floor is unlike anything else.

The review mentions that you might find the Nazca Lines “up in the air literally,” highlighting how exciting and memorable this experience can be. Afterward, you’ll spend the night in Nazca, giving you time to reflect on the mysteries of these ancient figures.

Day 5-6: Exploring Arequipa, the “White City”

From Nazca, a bus ride will carry you into the high-altitude city of Arequipa. Known as “Ciudad Blanca”, thanks to its stunning white volcanic stone architecture, it offers a lovely blend of history and natural beauty.

We liked the guided tour of Arequipa, where you can admire the Colca Canyon’s distant views and the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery. The 6-hour bus ride might seem long, but the scenery along the way makes it worthwhile. The city’s relaxed vibe and rich colonial history make for a pleasant stop.

Day 7-8: Lake Titicaca and Puno

Traveling from Arequipa to Puno is another scenic bus ride—around six hours of high Andean vistas. Puno is a hub for Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. The tour includes a boat trip to the Uros Islands—floating reed platforms inhabited by local communities. It’s a chance to witness a living tradition and learn about the unique lifestyle on the lake.

The review emphasizes the guided tour of the Uros Islands, which adds cultural depth and authentic interaction. That evening, you’ll settle into Puno, a town with a charming lakeside atmosphere.

Day 8-9: Cusco, the Heart of Inca Culture

From Puno, a long-distance bus or train takes you to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Arriving around 5:30 pm, you’ll have time to explore on your own or relax after the journey. The city’s blend of Inca and colonial architecture makes it a wonderful place to stroll.

The next morning, the tour includes a visit to the Temple of the Sun, along with four other archaeological sites. Our guides are praised for their knowledgeable insights, making history come alive.

Day 10: Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo

The Sacred Valley is a highlight, with stops at Pisac market, renowned for its vibrant crafts, and Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved Inca town with terraces and temples. We loved the combination of archaeological sites, local markets, and scenic villages. Lunch in Urubamba offers a taste of local cuisine, and the day ends with a visit to Chinchero, a picturesque mountain village.

Day 11-12: Machu Picchu

Traveling by train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, you’ll spend the night near Machu Picchu. This is the most iconic part of the trip, and the guided tour of the citadel is the highlight. We appreciated the 2-hour detailed introduction, along with free time to explore the site’s terraces and temples at your own pace.

The review notes that you’ll head back to Cusco by late afternoon, allowing for a relaxed evening and optional further exploration or rest.

Free Day in Cusco & Return to Lima

Day 13 offers a free morning in Cusco—perfect for wandering the streets, shopping for souvenirs, or visiting additional sites. On Day 14, a flight returns you to Lima, where you can enjoy your last night in Peru’s lively capital.

Final Day & Departure

The tour concludes with a transfer to the Lima airport on Day 15, making the journey back home feel straightforward. The included airport pickup on arrival and drop-off at the end ties the entire experience together smoothly, removing typical travel stress.

The Value of Guided Group Travel

What makes this tour stand out is the organized logistics—all transportation, accommodations, and entrance fees are covered—freeing you from the headache of booking multiple flights and buses. The group size of 20 to 25 travelers allows for a lively, personable experience without feeling crowded, and guides like Juan or Rosa are praised for their knowledgeable insights—adding depth to your understanding of Peru’s culture and history.

The tour’s price of $1,905 reflects a good balance of cost and inclusions, especially given the number of major sights covered. For travelers who want to see a wide swath of Peru without worrying about the details, this package offers considerable value, particularly if you value guided explanations and organized transportation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you enjoy organized group travel with a mix of guided activities and free time. It’s suited for those who can handle a few long bus rides and are comfortable with moderate physical activity, given the sightseeing at high altitudes and walking in archaeological sites. History buffs, wildlife watchers, and those new to Peru will find this itinerary a comprehensive, well-paced introduction to the country’s highlights.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult, but the tour requires moderate physical activity and comfort with long travel days.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals. However, many of the hotels and sites offer local options.

Will I need a valid passport?
Yes, a current, valid passport is required, along with your passport details at booking.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with groups of about 20 to 25 travelers, fostering a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, there’s pickup at Lima airport at the start and drop-off at the airport at the end of the tour for your convenience.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It’s designed for travelers with moderate fitness—expect some walking and altitude changes, but no extreme physical exertion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, minus any applicable fees.

To sum it up, this 15-day tour of Peru offers a balanced, authentic experience that highlights the country’s natural beauty and historic treasures. It’s well-suited for those eager to see key sights with expert guidance, without the stress of trip planning. Expect scenic vistas, ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and a glimpse into Peruvian life—an adventure that’s as enriching as it is practical.