A 13-day journey through Peru and Bolivia — exploring iconic sites like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats — offers a blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and genuine cultural encounters. For $1,210 per person, you get a well-rounded itinerary that balances sightseeing with authentic local interaction, all led by bilingual guides in small groups of up to 10 travelers.

What we love about this tour:
– The opportunity to visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour that uncovers the site’s secrets and history.
– The chance to experience local life firsthand by staying in family lodges and sharing meals with residents on the islands of Uros, Amantani, and Taquile.

A potential consideration:
– The long travel days between Bolivia and Peru, especially the overnight bus from Uyuni to La Paz, might be tiring for some travelers.

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for diverse landscapes, from ancient ruins and mountain vistas to salt flats and volcanic lagoons. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a blend of culture and natural beauty, and don’t mind some early mornings and bus rides.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers major highlights of Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Bolivia.
Small group size of max 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Authentic cultural interactions include staying in local family lodges and sharing traditional meals.
Diverse landscapes from Inca ruins to surreal salt flats and mountain lagoons.
Expert bilingual guides offer in-depth knowledge and assistance throughout.
Value for the price includes entrance fees, train rides, some meals, and accommodations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Highlights of the Tour

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Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Starting in Cusco, we’re picked up from the airport and introduced to the city’s cobbled streets and vibrant plazas. The first day’s Cusco city tour visits impressive sites like Sacsayhuamán, with its massive stone walls, and Tambomachay, famed for its aqueducts and water fountains. These sites offer a tangible sense of the Inca’s engineering prowess and spiritual significance.

The following day takes us through the Sacred Valley, stopping at the colorful market town of Pisac and the ancient fortress of Ollantaytambo. We particularly enjoy the buffet lunch in Urubamba, which often gets praised for its generous spread and fresh ingredients. The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu town is a scenic highlight, giving travelers a chance to relax and enjoy the lush landscape.

Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas

No trip here would be complete without visiting Machu Picchu. The early morning bus ride up offers stunning views, and the guided tour digs into the history, architecture, and purpose of this awe-inspiring site. We loved the way our guide explained how the Incas built such complex structures with limited technology, and how the site’s design aligns with celestial events.

Most travelers mention that the guided tour makes a big difference — it’s not just wandering around ruins but understanding the stories behind them. The afternoon free time allows for optional hikes or exploring the surrounding viewpoints. Returning to Cusco by train in the evening rounds out the day with comfort and scenic views.

Sacred Valley and Inca Sites

The tour continues with visits to Maras and Moray. Maras’ salt mines are fascinating — salt pans with a history dating back to Inca times, still in use today. Moray’s circular terraces are a testament to Inca agricultural ingenuity, and many find it inspiring to see how they experimented with crop cultivation at different elevations.

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Humantay Lagoon and the Mountain of Colors

Early mornings are a common theme here, starting with hikes at Humantay Lagoon and the Rainbow Mountain. Both hikes are physically demanding but rewarded with landscapes that look like they belong on another planet. We appreciated the well-organized logistics, including breakfast in the small towns and guided hikes that explained the geology and cultural significance.

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Puno and Lake Titicaca

Traveling to Puno, you’re introduced to the floating Uros Islands, where locals live on reeds. We loved sharing a meal with a local family — a real highlight of authentic cultural exchange. Continuing to Amantani and Taquile islands, we stayed overnight with local families, learning about their traditions, music, and daily life.

Bolivia and the Uyuni Salt Flats

Crossing into Bolivia, we travel by bus to La Paz, then onwards to the Salvador Dali-like landscape of the Uyuni Salt Flats. The visit to the Train Cemetery is a quirky, photogenic stop. The overnight in a salt hotel with a shared bathroom adds a touch of adventure.

The next days take us through volcanic lagoons like Chiarkota, Hedionda, and Colorada, where flamingos wade in mineral-rich waters. We found the fumaroles and hot springs to be unique thermal phenomena, offering otherworldly scenery. The itinerary includes staying in a family lodge in Huayllajara, which supports local communities.

Practical Considerations

While the journey is immersive, be prepared for early starts and long travel days, especially the overnight bus from Uyuni to La Paz. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, so packing layers, sunscreen, and water is essential. The group size keeps it manageable, but some may find the pace brisk. Guides are bilingual, which helps bridge language gaps, yet the tour’s focus on cultural authenticity means some interactions are in Spanish.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

For the price of $1,210, this tour includes a lot: entrance fees, train rides, some meals, accommodations, and guided tours. The combination of well-organized logistics and culture makes this a compelling choice for anyone interested in seeing the highlights of Peru and Bolivia without the hassle of planning each detail.

Travelers have praised the guides’ professionalism and knowledge, emphasizing how they enhance the experience by sharing historical insights and local stories. The small group size fosters a more personal and engaging atmosphere, allowing for genuine interactions and questions.

You’ll get a good mix of must-see attractions like Machu Picchu, with off-the-beaten-path experiences such as sharing meals with local families in Amantani or exploring the colorful lagoons of Bolivia. The diverse landscapes, from mountain peaks to salt flats, ensure that your camera and senses are always engaged.

Final Thoughts

This 13-day tour strikes a balance between organized sightseeing and authentic cultural encounters. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience with expert guides, manageable group sizes, and the flexibility to explore without feeling rushed. The inclusion of local stays and meals offers an enriching perspective that many packaged tours lack.

While the itinerary is packed and travel days can be long, the payoff is a deep dive into two countries that exemplify South America’s contrasts: ancient Inca ruins and surreal salt flats. For those eager to see iconic landmarks while also engaging with local traditions, this tour provides a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings and long bus rides, and you’re excited by diverse landscapes and cultural exchanges, this experience is likely to be one of your highlights. It offers genuine value for the price, with the added bonus of small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with early mornings, some walking, and bus rides. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or health concerns due to the physical nature of hikes and altitude.

Are meals included throughout the trip?
Most meals are included, such as buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, breakfast and lunch at Humantay Lagoon, and some dinners like those in the family lodges. However, some personal meals or snacks might be at your own expense.

What kind of transportation is used?
The tour uses tourist transport, trains, buses, and private 4×4 vehicles, especially for the salt flats. The overnight bus from Uyuni to La Paz is a common feature.

How many people typically join the tour?
The group size is limited to 10 participants, creating a more personalized atmosphere and allowing guides to give focused attention.

What accommodations are included?
Guests stay in selected hotels in Cusco, family lodges in Huayllajara, and the salt hotel in Uyuni (shared bathroom). These accommodations aim to balance comfort with authentic local experiences.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, hikes at Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain involve altitude and physical exertion. The tour is not suitable for those with claustrophobia, heart problems, or vertigo.

What should I pack?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunglasses, sunhat, sunscreen), layers for temperature changes, camera, water, cash, and a garbage bag for waste.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also an option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is the tour guided in English, Spanish, or both?
Guides are bilingual, offering services in both English and Spanish, ensuring that most travelers can follow along easily.

This tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see some of South America’s most awe-inspiring sights while also connecting with local communities. It’s a rewarding experience for those looking to blend adventure with cultural depth.