Discover the Best of Southern Peru in 12 Days with this comprehensive tour that covers Lima, Ica, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco. For $1,407 per person, you’ll experience iconic sights like Machu Picchu, the Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca, while enjoying authentic cuisine and engaging local customs. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip balances history, adventure, and culture, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to see Peru’s diverse highlights in a well-organized package.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the carefully paced itinerary—giving you time to truly soak in each stop—and the inclusion of activities like sandboarding in Huacachina and hiking up Vinicunca, which add an adventurous edge. The tour’s focus on food—highlighting local dishes and markets—also enhances the experience.

A potential drawback? The tour involves quite a bit of travel, with early starts and long days, which might be tiring for some. However, if you’re someone who loves a mix of sightseeing and active pursuits, you’ll find this combination rewarding.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full-spectrum Peruvian experience—covering the coast, highlands, and lakes—and value guided insights along the way. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy culture, scenic landscapes, and trying regional foods.

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major highlights from Lima to Cusco, including Machu Picchu and Vinicunca.
Authentic Experiences: Includes visits to local markets, traditional dances, and volcanic landscapes.
Adventure & Activities: Sandboarding in Huacachina, hiking, and boat rides on Lake Titicaca.
Cultural Insights: Guided tours of historic sites like Sacsayhuaman and Qoricancha.
Food & Cuisine: Focus on delicious regional dishes and visits to vineyards.
Value for Money: All transportation, entrance fees, and some meals are included, ensuring a hassle-free trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 12-Day Route

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Starting in Lima and Ica: Coastal Delights and Sand Dunes

Your journey begins with a pickup at Lima’s airport, where we quickly realize that this trip is more than just a checklist. We’re whisked away early on Day 2 for the energetic visit to the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the Galápagos of Peru, where the abundant wildlife—including sea lions and seabirds—makes for spectacular close-up views. Afterwards, a visit to a local vineyard provides a chance to taste regional wines—an unexpected highlight, especially if you’re a fan of unique flavors.

Later, the tour takes us to Huacachina, the famous desert oasis. Here’s where the adventure kicks in: we’re given tubulars and sand-boarding gear for an exhilarating ride down the dunes. The guided tour helps us appreciate the landscape’s stark beauty, and the thrill of sliding down the sand is a definite bonus for adrenaline junkies.

Arequipa: The White City and Its Surroundings

After a late-night return to Lima, Day 3 introduces us to Arequipa, a city famed for its white volcanic stone architecture. The afternoon city tour includes highlights like the Santa Catalina Monastery and the bustling plaza, offering a glimpse into local life and colonial history. This city feels like a calm, charming base before heading further into the highlands.

Chivay and the Colca Canyon: Spectacular Birds and Local Culture

The next morning, the journey takes us to Chivay in the Colca Valley, a scenic drive filled with snow-capped volcanoes and terraced fields. Visiting the Cruz del Condor early in the morning is a must-see, where we watch the majestic Andean condors soaring effortlessly—an awe-inspiring sight that’s worth every early hour. We love the experience of standing at the edge of this canyon and contemplating the sheer scale of nature.

The evening includes a thermal bath experience at La Calera and a typical dance and dinner night, which gives a wonderful taste of local culture and music. It’s a lively, authentic touch that makes the experience feel personal and memorable.

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Puno and Lake Titicaca: Living on the Water

Moving on, we spend Day 6 and 7 exploring the floating Uros Islands and the traditional island of Amantani, where we stay overnight with local families. This part of the trip is particularly enriching; being invited into a local home and sharing a simple meal makes for genuine cultural exchange. The next day, visiting Taquile, with its distinctive textiles and handicrafts, offers a vibrant look at indigenous life.

Traveling from Puno to Cusco in the late afternoon, we’re treated to a lunch with spectacular lake views—an ideal way to combine travel and scenery.

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Cusco: Heart of the Inca Empire

Upon arrival, a guided city tour introduces us to landmarks like Qoricancha and Sacsayhuaman, where the impressive stonework tells stories of ancient engineering. We value the way guides explain the significance of each site, making history come alive.

Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu: The Iconic Ruins

Day 9 takes us to the Sacred Valley, with stops at Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where colorful markets and impressive Inca ruins await. The buffet lunch in Urubamba offers a much-needed rest before our scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes—the gateway to Machu Picchu. The guide briefing in the evening sets expectations for the next day’s adventure.

The highlight arrives on Day 10: a bus ride up to Machu Picchu and a guided tour of the lost city of the Incas. The site’s well-preserved terraces, temples, and panoramic views make it an unforgettable experience. Afterward, we return to Cusco in the afternoon, feeling like we’ve stepped back in time.

Vinicunca: The Rainbow Mountain

Day 11 is dedicated to hiking the Seven Colours Mountain, a terrain of vibrant, striped hues. The trek (about 2.5 hours each way) is physically demanding but rewarding for its spectacular views and unique landscape. We appreciate the chance to enjoy local lunch in Tintinco afterward, and the return to Cusco wraps up our highland adventures.

Wrapping Up

On the final day, we’re transferred to Cusco’s airport or bus station, ending an itinerary packed with unforgettable sights and experiences.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

The price of $1,407 includes transportation, guides, entrance fees, some meals, and activities, which means you won’t be surprised by extra costs. The inclusion of activities like sandboarding, thermal baths, and boat rides adds an adventurous flavor that’s often missing from more traditional tours. The accommodation and transport arrangements are designed to maximize comfort while keeping the schedule efficient.

However, the itinerary’s intensity means early mornings and long days are common. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, some parts—like the hike to Vinicunca—may be challenging. But for active travelers who love a full itinerary, this tour offers a fantastic balance of sightseeing, adventure, and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 12-day journey is best suited for travelers eager to see diverse landscapes—from coastal islands and desert dunes to lush highland valleys—and interested in cultural exchanges with local communities. It’s ideal if you like active pursuits like sandboarding and hiking, and you want guided insights into Peru’s history and traditions. If your goal is to tick off major highlights in a structured way, this tour offers both convenience and authenticity.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers airport pickups, transportation, guides, entrance fees, some meals, activities like tubing and sandboarding, train tickets, walking poles, and oxygen assistance on Cusco tours.

Are flights included?
No, the tour price does not include airfare, so you’ll need to arrange your own flights to and from Peru.

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

What languages are available for the tour?
Tours are offered in both Spanish and English, with live guides ensuring you get detailed explanations.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally appropriate for active individuals, some activities like hiking Vinicunca might be strenuous for the very young or elderly, so consider your group’s mobility.

Are meals included?
Meals are included at specific points, such as lunches in vineyards and during the Sacred Valley visit, but not all dinners or breakfasts.

How much free time is there?
There’s a balance of guided tours and free mornings, especially in Lima and Cusco, allowing you to explore or relax at your own pace.

This 12-day tour offers a well-rounded Peruvian adventure, combining iconic sights with local culture and lively activities. If you’re ready to explore the varied landscapes, indulge in flavorful cuisine, and experience authentic traditions, this trip could be just what you’re looking for. Just pack your curiosity—and maybe some extra memory cards for all those incredible photos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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