Tour 9D: Lima – Machu Picchu – Lake Titicaca – Nazca – Ica

Experience Peru’s Wonders with the 9D Tour: Lima, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Nazca, and Ica

Traveling through Peru in just nine days might seem ambitious, but this carefully designed trip offers a thorough taste of the country’s most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures. For $2,050 per person, you’ll explore the bustling streets of Lima, the mysterious Nazca Lines, the ancient city of Machu Picchu, and the stunning Lake Titicaca, all with expert guides and comfortable transportation. Along the way, you’ll see vast deserts, lush jungle, and the enduring legacy of the Incas.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: First, the balance between cultural sites and natural scenery — from the archaeological marvels to the unique floating Uros Islands. Second, the inclusion of local guides and small groups (limited to 15 travelers), which means a more personal, informative experience.

An aspect to consider is the tight schedule — with travel days and multiple sites packed into each day, there’s little time for leisurely exploration. This might not suit travelers seeking a relaxed pace or more time at each location.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to see a broad slice of Peru in a limited timeframe, and who enjoy learning about history and culture firsthand. If you’re eager to explore diverse environments — from deserts to mountains — and appreciate guided insights, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary covering Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Nazca, and Ica.
• Expert guides providing detailed insights at each site.
• All-inclusive transportation and entrance fees eliminate surprises.
• Small group (max 15) for a more personal experience.
• Variety of landscapes: coastal, mountain, desert, and jungle.
• Tight schedule may be tiring but ensures seeing many highlights in limited time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Peru in 9 Days: What’s Included and What You’ll Experience

This tour offers a whirlwind adventure, blending cultural exploration, iconic landmarks, and incredible scenery. It’s a comprehensive way to get a sense of what makes Peru special, especially if you’re pressed for time but craving depth.

Days 1 & 2: Lima and Ica’s Coastal Charms

Your adventure begins in Lima, the “City of the Kings,” where you’ll enjoy a city tour through historic squares, and the elegant districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. These areas are perfect introductions, offering a mix of colonial architecture, modern cafes, and ocean views. It’s a quick orientation, but one that sets the stage for the country’s blend of old and new.

Bright and early on Day 2, you’ll head south to the Ballestas Islands — sometimes called the “poor man’s Galápagos” for the abundant wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. Then, you’ll explore the Ica desert, a vast expanse of dunes that stretch endlessly, providing spectacular views and photo opportunities. The afternoon includes sandboarding and dune buggy rides, which add a fun, adrenaline-pumping element to the trip.

Day 3: Nazca Lines Flight

A highlight of this tour is the flight over the Nazca Lines, one of the world’s greatest mysteries. From the air, you’ll see giant geoglyphs etched into the desert floor — shapes of animals, plants, and geometric figures dating back over 2000 years. It’s an exhilarating experience and provides a perspective impossible to gain from the ground. The flight is often praised for its clarity and professionalism, but keep in mind that small aircrafts may be a challenge for those prone to motion sickness.

Days 4-6: Cusco and Machu Picchu

After an early morning flight from Lima to Cusco, you’ll spend the afternoon touring the city’s highlights — the Qoricancha temple, the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, and the quaint streets of Cusco itself. Acclimatization is important here, as Cusco’s high altitude can surprise first-timers.

The next day is packed with visits to the Sacred Valley towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where you’ll find ancient ruins and lively markets. This part of the trip is vital for understanding the Inca civilization’s sophistication and their integration with the landscape.

On Day 5, you’ll take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, setting the scene for your visit to Machu Picchu. The journey itself is scenic, and the anticipation builds as you approach the mountain-top citadel.

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Day 6: Machu Picchu Guided Tour

The guided visit to Machu Picchu is the tour’s centerpiece. The guide will bring the site’s history alive, pointing out key structures like the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the Royal Residences. We loved how the guide’s insights added depth to our visit.

You’ll descend by bus, then return by train to Cusco — a full day that combines heritage and landscape beautifully.

Days 7 & 8: Lake Titicaca and Puno

Journeying east, you’ll take a guided bus trip from Cusco to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca. This high-altitude lake is the world’s highest navigable body of water, and the region is a tapestry of floating islands, traditional communities, and stunning mountain views.

You’ll explore the Uros floating islands, made of totora reeds, and Taquile Island, where local artisans craft textiles and maintain vibrant traditions. The boat rides are smooth, and the guides’ explanations shed light on local life.

Day 9: Return to Lima

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Juliaca airport for your flight back to Lima, completing your Peruvian circle of discovery.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Guides, and Value

This tour’s transportation logistics are well thought out. The flights between Lima and Cusco, plus the scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, are highlights that save time and add adventure. The bus trips in the Sacred Valley and from Cusco to Puno are comfortable and reliable, with all entrance fees included, so there’s no guesswork about costs.

Having professional guides at each major site significantly enhances the experience. Their knowledge brings context and stories that you wouldn’t get from a solo visit, making the visits richer and more memorable.

The small group size (limited to 15) means more personalized attention, better interaction, and fewer crowds at popular sites. Plus, the included hotel nights are conveniently located, providing a comfortable base after busy sightseeing days.

When it comes to value, this tour bundles many of Peru’s top sights into one package — from the mystery of Nazca to the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu, and the breathtaking views of Lake Titicaca. For those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing each component separately, it offers excellent convenience for the price.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the itinerary covers many highlights, it’s quite packed. Travelers who prefer a slower pace or more time at individual sites might find this schedule intense. The early mornings, long travel days, and tight transitions could be tiring, especially at high altitudes like Cusco and Puno.

Also, the Nazca Lines flight is a highlight, but small aircrafts can be uncomfortable for some, and weather conditions may impact availability. The cost of extras like meals (lunches and dinners) not included in the package can add up, so budget accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for active travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of Peru’s diverse environments and historical sites. If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours, appreciates comfortable transport, and wants a well-organized overview that hits all the major highlights, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

Travelers with a curious mind for history and culture, who don’t mind a busy schedule and high-altitude days, will appreciate the depth and variety packed into these nine days.

If you’re planning a first visit to Peru or want to experience the country’s most famous sights in a single trip, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While the tour involves some walking and high-altitude sites like Cusco and Puno, the itinerary is designed for active travelers. Be prepared for some uphill walking, especially at Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Are flights between Lima and Cusco included?
Yes, the tour includes a flight from Lima to Cusco, which saves time and helps acclimate to the altitude before visiting higher elevations.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 participants, offering a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

How much of the tour is guided?
All major sites and activities are guided by professional guides, ensuring you get detailed explanations and insights at each stop.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited are included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs on the day.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts are included at the hotels, and there’s a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley and during Lake Titicaca. Lunches and dinners outside of these are not included, so budget for additional meals.

Is the Nazca Lines flight optional?
Yes, it’s part of the itinerary, and while it’s a highlight, travelers with concerns about small aircrafts or motion sickness should consider this before booking.

Can I customize or extend this tour?
While this tour is fixed in its schedule, you might find options to add extra days or customize certain segments directly with the provider, especially if you want more time at specific sites.

To sum it up, the 9-day Lima to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Nazca, and Ica tour offers a thorough and thoughtfully organized way to see some of Peru’s most famous sights. It balances cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and practical logistics, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Peru’s highlights without the hassle of coordinating each step. Perfect for those who love guided tours, active days, and a bit of adventure at every turn. If you’re ready for a well-paced, comprehensive exploration of Peru, this tour ticks many boxes — just pack your curiosity and your sense of adventure.

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