From Lima to Bolivia: A 16-Day Tour of Peru and Bolivia with Accommodation

This 16-day journey takes you through some of South America’s most iconic sights, from the bustling streets of Lima to the breathtaking landscapes of Uyuni Salt Flats. For $2,400 per person, you get a mix of guided city tours, cultural experiences, and nature adventures, all crafted to give you a deep sense of Peru’s and Bolivia’s unique charm. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable local guides like Javier or Rosa (though their names aren’t specified here), you’ll visit Lima, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca islands, and the Salt Flats of Uyuni.

What we love about this experience is how it balances culture with awe-inspiring natural scenery. The chance to explore Machu Picchu with a guide who can illuminate its history is priceless, and the overnight stay at a salt hotel in Uyuni adds an unforgettable touch of adventure. We also appreciate the inclusion of local visits, like the salt mines and traditional island communities, which offer authentic insights that large, impersonal tours often miss.

One minor consideration is the tour’s tight scheduling, especially during days with early starts like Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain. For some travelers, the pace might feel rushed, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed approach. However, if your goal is to see as much as possible and enjoy a whirlwind of South American highlights, this trip offers excellent value.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to experience both the urban and remote landscapes of Peru and Bolivia, and those comfortable with a busy itinerary covering a lot of ground. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided group travel with included accommodations and don’t mind some early mornings and long travel days.

Key Points

Comprehensive route: Covers major highlights in Peru and Bolivia, including Machu Picchu, Uyuni Salt Flats, and Lake Titicaca.
Authentic experiences: Visits to local islands, salt mines, and traditional villages give a genuine feel of local life.
Natural wonders: You’ll see some of the most photogenic landscapes in South America, from deserts to lagoons to mountains.
Guided tours: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of history and culture at every stop.
Value-packed: All accommodations, transportation, and most entrance fees are included, making it easier to budget.
Active days: Expect early starts and some walking/hiking at sites like Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.

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In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

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Starting in Lima: Urban Beginnings and Coastal Wonders

Your journey begins with a pick-up from the airport and a city tour of Lima. This is a great chance to get your bearings and see highlights like Plaza Mayor, the historic center, and perhaps some of the modern districts of Miraflores or Barranco if time allows. The guide, though not named here, is likely to share insights into Lima’s blend of colonial architecture and bustling street life. Staying in a 3-star hotel, you’ll get a comfortable base to explore or relax before heading out early the next day.

From Lima to Paracas and Ica: Islands, Desert, and Dunes

Early on Day 2, you’ll transfer to Paracas. The Ballestas Islands boat tour is a highlight—think of it as a mini Galápagos experience with seabirds, sea lions, and dramatic cliffs. Afterward, a trip south to Ica and Huacachina offers an opportunity for sandboarding and dune buggy rides—a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity that’s perfect for thrill-seekers. The desert scenery makes for some memorable photos, and the guide’s local tips help you get the most out of your experience.

Nazca Lines: Mysteries from the Sky

On Day 3, you’ll take a flight over the Nazca Lines—a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see these enormous geoglyphs. The sensation of floating above these mysterious figures is hard to beat, and it’s a highlight for many travelers. The timing (starting at 8:30 am) is chosen to avoid the afternoon heat and wind, making for better views and a smoother trip.

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Into the Andean Heartland: Cusco and the Sacred Valley

Day 4 marks your arrival in Cusco, the historical capital of the Incas. The city tour introduces you to its colonial architecture and vibrant streets. From Day 5, you’ll explore the Sacred Valley, visiting Pisac with its impressive market and Ollantaytambo, a well-preserved Inca site. The train ride to Aguas Calientes is scenic and relaxing, setting the stage for the visit to Machu Picchu.

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Machu Picchu: The Crown Jewel

On Day 6, you’ll ascend by bus to the legendary Machu Picchu. With a guide, you’ll learn about its architecture, history, and purpose. This is undoubtedly the tour’s centerpiece, and the early morning visit helps beat the crowds. Returning to Aguas Calientes and then traveling by train back to Ollantaytambo offers a satisfying flow, allowing you to truly savor the experience.

Beyond Machu Picchu: Salt Mines and Mountain Views

Days 7 and 8 introduce you to Maras and Moray, where salt extraction and agricultural terraces demonstrate ancient ingenuity. The Humantay Lake hike on Day 8 is a physical highlight — the stunning lagoon surrounded by snow-capped peaks is a scene you’ll want to capture. The early start (4 am) reflects the tour’s ambition to maximize sightseeing, but it also means your energy level might need a boost.

Rainbow Mountain: A Colorful Climb

Day 9’s Rainbow Mountain trek is a demanding but rewarding adventure. The striking multi-colored slopes are a must-see, and the early departure (4:30 am) allows you to arrive before large crowds. The return to Cusco and subsequent departure to Puno at night means you get a taste of the high-altitude landscape and experience the vibrant local culture.

Lake Titicaca: Floating Islands and Traditions

Days 10 and 11 focus on Lake Titicaca, visiting the Uros floating islands and the island of Amantani with its traditional family house stay, followed by Taquile. These visits give you a window into indigenous life and customs. The boat rides across the lake are scenic, and the chance to stay overnight with local families adds an authentic touch you won’t find on more commercial tours.

Crossing into Bolivia: Puno to Uyuni

Day 12 involves an early departure from Puno to Bolivia via La Paz, with a long bus ride (around 10 hours). Even if the journey is lengthy, the scenery along the way—mountains, high plains, and rural communities—is fascinating. Arriving in Uyuni late in the evening, you’ll be ready for the salt flat adventures.

Uyuni Salt Flats and Landmarks

The next days are dedicated to exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats—visiting the cemetery, salt mines, and salt hotel, where the white landscape creates surreal photo opportunities. The tour in a 4×4 vehicle allows access to remote lagoons and volcano viewpoints, like Ollague. You’ll visit Laguna Colorada and Hedionda Lagoon, which are teeming with flamingos and other wildlife, providing excellent photography and wildlife viewing.

Unique Experiences in the Desert

The journey continues with visits to fumaroles and hot springs at Polques. Staying overnight in a family-run lodge gives you a chance to experience local hospitality in this remote environment. The early morning visit to the fumaroles is another highlight, offering a sense of the alien landscape that covers this part of the Altiplano.

Returning to Bolivia: La Paz

On Day 15, you’ll take a tourist bus back to La Paz, traveling through more incredible high-altitude scenery. This return leg is a long night trip (~10 hours), but it’s part of the adventure, allowing you to reflect on the diverse landscapes you’ve experienced.

End of the Journey

Your tour concludes with a transfer to La Paz airport, making it easy to plan your flights home or onward travel. The included accommodations in 3-star hotels and lodges strike a balance between comfort and authenticity, though Puno and Uyuni feature basic lodging, which is typical for such remote locations.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price of $2,400, this package bundles transportation, guides, most entrance fees, and hotels, reducing the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The variety of activities—from boat rides, hikes, to cultural visits—means you get a well-rounded experience that touches on history, nature, and local life. The extensive itinerary is perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights without sacrificing depth, especially given the inclusion of Machu Picchu, the Uyuni Salt Flats, and Lake Titicaca.

Who Will Love It?

This tour suits adventurers who are comfortable with early mornings, long travel days, and varying altitudes. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown of Peru and Bolivia with guided insights, especially if you’re keen on seeing iconic sites like Machu Picchu and the Salt Flats. It’s also a good fit for travelers who enjoy culture and don’t mind a busy schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Most activities involve walking, some at high altitudes, and uneven terrain, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

Are flights included in the price?
No, international and domestic flights are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own flights to and from Lima and possibly other destinations.

How many guides will I have during the trip?
The tour generally includes guides at key sites, like Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Uyuni, but specific guide names are not provided.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?
You’ll stay in 3-star hotels in Cusco, Lima, and Puno, with more basic lodges in Uyuni and Puno.

Is there free time during the tour?
The schedule is quite packed, but some free time might be available in larger cities like Cusco or Lima if you choose to explore on your own.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, camera, cash for extras, and be prepared for varying weather conditions—layers for cold nights and sun protection for daytime.

Are meals included?
Most meals like breakfasts, some lunches, and dinners are included, but not all. You might find some meals not covered, especially outside scheduled stops.

Is this tour good for families?
It’s more suited for active travelers and older children who can handle early mornings and long days. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with heart problems.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans alter unexpectedly.

This 16-day adventure offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and excitement—perfect for those ready to take on South America’s highlights with the comfort and guidance of local experts. While it demands some stamina and flexibility, the memories you’ll create—from the ancient stones of Machu Picchu to the otherworldly expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats—are well worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, this tour provides a solid foundation for discovering Peru and Bolivia’s most unforgettable sights.