Lima: 9-Day Humantay Lake, Nazca & Sacred Valley- Hotel Star

Lima: 9-Day Humantay Lake, Nazca & Sacred Valley – Hotel Star
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.2
Price: $1,538 per person
Supplier: Machupicchu Holiday

Planning a trip to Peru often centers around Machu Picchu, but this 9-day tour offers so much more—covering the Sacred Valley, Humantay Lagoon, the colorful Mountain, and the enigmatic Nazca Lines. With a balanced itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable 4-star hotels, this experience is ideal for travelers eager to see Peru’s highlights without feeling rushed.

What we love about this tour are the intimate group size—limited to 15 participants—which makes for a more personal experience, and the thoughtful mix of cultural sights, natural wonders, and adventure activities like sandboarding and hiking. On the flip side, the schedule is packed, and the early mornings (as early as 4 a.m. for some excursions) might be challenging for those not used to long days.

This trip is best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Peru’s diverse landscape and history, and who appreciate guided tours that handle logistics so you can focus on the experience. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to hit all the major highlights with insightful commentary, this tour could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Diverse Sights: From ancient archaeological sites to breathtaking natural landscapes, the tour covers the essentials.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention and interaction.
• Cultural & Natural Balance: Enjoy both cultural heritage sites and outdoor adventures like Humantay Lagoon hike and Rainbow Mountain.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes city tours, Sacred Valley exploration, Machu Picchu, Nazca flight, and more.
• Value for the Price: The inclusive nature, hotel standards, and guided experiences make this a worthwhile investment for many travelers.
• Early Starts & Long Days: Be prepared for early mornings and full days, especially during the high-altitude hikes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 9-Day Peru Adventure

Starting in Lima: A Taste of Peruvian Capital

The journey begins in Lima, where you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Miraflores or San Isidro around 2 p.m. The city tour offers a good introduction, including highlights like Parque del Amor, the panoramic view of Huaca Pucllana, and the historic city center. Visiting San Martin Square, the Bolívar Hotel, and the San Francisco Convent with its catacombs gives a glimpse into Lima’s colonial past.

We appreciate that the city tour is scheduled for the early evening, giving you a relaxed start and avoiding the frantic rush. The guide’s insights help put Lima’s history into context, making this a worthwhile introduction, especially if it’s your first time in Peru’s bustling capital.

Day 2: The Desert Oasis of Huacachina

Early on, you’ll leave Lima for Ica, with a stop at the famous Ballestas Islands—the “poor man’s Galápagos”—where sea lions, seabirds, and marine life make for a lively boat tour. Afterward, a visit to a local vineyard for lunch adds a chance to sample Peru’s famous wines.

The afternoon is dedicated to Huacachina, a tiny desert oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. Activities like sandboarding and a guided tour using tubulars make this a highlight for adventure-seekers. We liked the thrill of sliding down dunes and the surreal landscape—it’s still hard to believe such a lush oasis exists amid the desert. Spending the night here allows for a relaxed evening and more time to soak in the desert scenery.

Day 3: Nazca Lines and Overflight

Early departure takes you to Nazca, where you’ll hop on a 30-minute flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines. Seeing these enormous geoglyphs from above, you’ll understand why they continue to puzzle archaeologists and travelers alike. The tour includes a visit to the Nazca airfield and the opportunity to get a bird’s-eye view of these ancient designs.

While the flight offers an unforgettable perspective, some travelers might find it a bit nerve-wracking, so it’s good to be prepared. Lunch is on your own, giving flexibility to explore local eateries. The evening involves taking a tourist bus back to Lima, arriving around 10:30 p.m. after a full day of travel and sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Lima City Tour Redux and Transfer to Cusco

The next day begins with a pickup from the airport, followed by a guided city tour focusing on key sites like Qoricancha, the Temple of the Sun, and the four awe-inspiring ruins of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into Inca engineering and spirituality.

The tour wraps up around 6 p.m., leaving you time to relax or explore more of Cusco on your own. For history buffs, these ruins are a real treat, especially as they stand in contrast to the colonial cityscape of Cusco.

Day 5: Sacred Valley Exploration

After breakfast, the adventure continues in the Sacred Valley. The visit to Pisaq archaeological site is a highlight; the terraced ruins and market offer a lively introduction to Inca craftsmanship. A buffet lunch with authentic Andean foods in Urubamba provides a local flavor.

In the afternoon, the fortress of Ollantaytambo impresses with its massive stone structures and terraced slopes. Then, it’s time to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train ride itself offers scenic views of the river and mountains, making it a relaxing way to end the day.

Day 6: The Mystique of Machu Picchu

A pre-dawn bus takes you up to Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of this ancient site. The circuit is well-paced, and you can appreciate the harmony of Incas’ architecture against a backdrop of lush mountains. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included in the package, so you’ll want to book those separately.

After exploring, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a local lunch before returning by train to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. The day is a long one but packed with awe-inspiring sights that will stay with you long after the trip.

Day 7: Humantay Lagoon Hike

Early morning again—this time around 4-5 a.m.—to start the drive to Mollepata for breakfast. The Humantay Lagoon hike is about two hours of moderate walking, with stunning views of the turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the lagoon and its connection to local legends.

The experience of reaching the lagoon, taking in the reflection of mountains in the water, and capturing photos is worth every early alarm. Afterward, a buffet lunch in Mollepata offers a well-earned break before heading back to Cusco. Expect to arrive around 6 p.m., tired but exhilarated.

Day 8: Rainbow Mountain

Another early start—this time for the famous Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca. The drive to Tintinco is about two hours, followed by a two-hour hike. The multi-colored stripes of the mountain are more vivid than you might imagine, and the effort to reach the summit feels justified.

Our guide was helpful in explaining the geology behind the mountain’s colors, making the hike both a physical challenge and a classroom. The buffet lunch at Tintinco is a good way to refuel before returning to Cusco around 5 p.m.

Day 9: Departure Day

Your trip concludes with a transfer to Cusco airport, wrapping up 9 days of adventures. The organization and transportation are arranged to make your departure smooth, leaving you with memories of a full, enriching experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty—perfect for active travelers who want to make the most of their time in Peru. The small group size and professional guides help create a more intimate, informative experience, especially for those new to the country or who prefer guided travel.

The early mornings and long days are the trade-off for seeing so many highlights in one trip, so be prepared for some jet-lag style fatigue. The inclusion of comfortable 4-star hotels, thoughtful logistics, and a variety of activities means you get good value for your investment.

We believe this trip suits curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic hikes, and unique experiences like flying over Nazca or hiking Rainbow Mountain. If you’re ready for a somewhat demanding itinerary but crave authentic sights and moments in Peru, this tour will deliver—probably more than you expect.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves some hikes—Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain are about two hours each—but they are considered moderate. Travelers should be prepared for early mornings and physical activity at altitude.

Are entrance fees to Machu Picchu included?
No, the package does not include Machu Picchu entrance tickets. You should purchase these separately to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.

How large are the groups?
Groups are limited to 15 participants, which helps keep the experience more personal and allows guides to give more individual attention.

Are vegetarian or special dietary needs accommodated?
The tour includes buffet lunches, often with local and vegetarian options. It’s best to specify dietary needs when booking.

Is altitude a concern?
Yes, Cusco, Humantay Lagoon, and Rainbow Mountain are at high elevations. Travelers should be aware of potential altitude sickness symptoms and stay hydrated.

Can I join the tour if I have pre-existing medical conditions?
The tour is not recommended for those with pre-existing medical conditions or respiratory issues due to the physical activity and altitude.

What should I bring?
Pack a passport or ID, camera, cash, sunscreen, hat, layered clothing for changing weather, and sturdy walking shoes.

Are there any restrictions on pregnant women?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women due to early mornings, physical activity, and altitude.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

All in all, this 9-day tour offers a complete, well-organized journey through Peru’s most iconic sites and breathtaking landscapes. If you’re eager to explore with knowledgeable guides and enjoy authentic experiences, it’s likely to be a trip you’ll cherish long after you return home.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby