If you’re dreaming of exploring Peru’s iconic sights, this 20-day tour offers a carefully curated journey through the country’s most celebrated destinations: from the bustling streets of Lima to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, the vast Amazon river, and the breathtaking landscapes of Colca Canyon. For about $9,750 per person, you’ll get a mix of guided city tours, scenic drives, boat trips, and even a cruise, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic experience.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it combines structured sightseeing with some free time, letting you savor each location without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a small group limit (up to 15 participants) ensures more personalized attention and enhances the feeling of discovery. Two things that particularly stand out: the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu with a guided expert and the chance to cruise on the Amazon, blending history and nature seamlessly. However, keep in mind that the itinerary is packed, which means early mornings and long travel days are unavoidable.

This tour suits travelers who love a rich, diverse experience — from archaeological sites and vibrant markets to natural wonders and local communities. If you’re looking for a well-rounded adventure with good value, this could be the right fit, especially if you enjoy small-group travel and want a mix of guided and independent exploration.

Key Points

Diverse Destinations: Visit Lima, Nazca, Machu Picchu, Amazon, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, and more.
Balanced Itinerary: Combines guided tours, free time, and optional activities like hiking Machu Picchu’s Huaynapicchu.
Authentic Experiences: Includes a Peruvian cooking class, local community visits, and a cruise on the Amazon river.
Value for Money: All major transportation, flights, hotels, and many meals are included.
Small Group Travel: Limited to 15 participants for a more personal experience.
Better suited for active travelers: Long days and multiple travel modes mean stamina helps.

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Starting with Lima: The City of Kings

The adventure begins in Lima, where you’ll spend four nights, giving you a good feel for Peru’s capital. The day starts with a welcome transfer from the airport, easing the transition into your trip. We liked the Peruvian cooking demonstration classes, which give a tasty, hands-on intro to local flavors — definitely a highlight for food lovers. The city tour explores historic districts, the Santo Domingo convent, and sprawling residential neighborhoods, offering a balanced look at Lima’s modern and colonial sides.

Lima’s Gold Museum and the Magic Water Circuit are included, giving a fascinating glimpse into Peru’s pre-Columbian craftsmanship and modern water features, respectively. These activities provide a practical way to understand Peru’s diverse culture and history, especially for those with limited time or wanting a city-focused intro before heading into the countryside.

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Amazon Cruise: Nature and Wildlife

Next, the tour takes you north to Iquitos, in the Peruvian Amazon. The three-day cruise on the Amazon is a real highlight, offering the chance to see dolphins, river communities, and local flora and fauna up close. The excursions include visits to Tamishiyacu, Tahuayo River, and Yanayacu River, with opportunities to observe wildlife and learn about local ecosystems from guides. We loved the open bar on deck and the relaxed atmosphere, which makes this part of the journey feel like a true escape into nature.

One thing to keep in mind: the cruise is immersive, so it’s more about natural scenery and local culture than luxury comfort. Pack light, bring insect repellent, and prepare for some rustic moments, but know that the experience offers a unique glimpse into Amazonian life that’s hard to find elsewhere.

From the Amazon to the Coast: Nazca and Paracas

After the Amazon, you return to Lima and head south to Paracas, where the famous Ballestas Islands offer a lively boat tour of sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. We appreciated the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, and the visit to the Paracas Reserve adds a scenic touch to the landscape.

Next, the journey takes you to Nazca, famous for the mysterious Nazca Lines. The flight over the desert reveals giant geoglyphs that remain a puzzle to archaeologists. We found the Nazca Cemetery tour equally interesting, providing context to the area’s ancient cultures. The trip from Nazca to Arequipa involves an overnight stay, allowing travelers to break up the long transit and enjoy the scenic drive.

The White City and Colca Canyon

Arequipa is known as the “White City” thanks to its stunning volcanic stone architecture. You get a city tour, visiting the Cathedral, Qoricancha, and Sacsayhuaman ruins, which are all accessible and well explained. The city’s lively plazas and colonial churches make it a charming stop, especially with a dinner show showcasing local dishes and music.

The next day, the tour ventures into the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest. Here, you’ll see Vicuñas in their reserve and visit the Cruz del Cóndor, where we loved watching condors soar overhead — a real bucket-list moment. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs and quiet villages make this a scenic highlight, especially for nature lovers.

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The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

From Arequipa, the trip continues to Cusco, the historical heart of the Incas. The city tour introduces you to Qoricancha, the Cathedral, and impressive Sacsayhuaman ruins. We appreciated the lively atmosphere and the chance to acclimate to the altitude before heading to the Sacred Valley.

A highlight here is the guided visit to Machu Picchu, often described as a “wonder of the world”. The train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes is scenic and comfortable, setting the tone for your exploration of the citadel. You can opt for a hike to Huaynapicchu if you’re feeling adventurous, which offers fantastic views and fewer crowds.

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Final Days in Cusco and Lima

The last few days blend cultural tours, including visits to Moray and Maras Salt Mines, with some free time to explore or relax. The included dinner show in Cusco provides a lively cultural experience, perfect to reflect on your journey.

Returning to Lima, the Pachacamac tour introduces you to more archaeological sites, while the Gold Museum and Magic Water Circuit close out your trip with a sense of Peru’s craftsmanship and modern vibrancy.

This tour offers a comprehensive view of Peru that covers both iconic sights and lesser-known gems. The price includes flights, hotel stays, transfers, many meals, and guided excursions, which simplifies planning and offers solid value for an all-inclusive experience.

The itinerary is busy — with long travel days, especially between regions — so it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy packed schedules and are comfortable with early mornings and varied transportation modes. The small-group format enhances interaction and flexibility, while the variety of activities—from city tours to wildlife cruises—keeps the trip engaging.

Some reviews mention that the balance of guided and free time is well managed, though others note that the pace can feel rushed during certain days. If your priority is deep relaxation, this might not be your best choice, but if you want a rich, all-encompassing journey through Peru, it hits the mark.

This 20-day adventure is ideal for travelers who want a thorough exploration of Peru with minimal hassle. It suits those eager to see ancient ruins, bustling cities, natural wonders, and unique ecosystems all in one trip. The inclusion of a cruise and multiple flights makes it a good fit for people comfortable with organized tours but still looking for authentic experiences.

If you’re a traveler who values culture alongside scenic views, and don’t mind a full schedule, this tour will deliver an unforgettable slice of Peru. It’s perfect for couples, families, or adventurous solo travelers willing to embrace the diversity of what this incredible country has to offer.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
It involves a fair amount of walking, some uneven surfaces, and long travel days, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

Are flights between regions included?
Yes, the tour covers flights from Lima to Iquitos, Arequipa to Cusco, and Cusco back to Lima, simplifying your travel logistics.

What meals are included during the trip?
Most breakfasts are included, along with some lunches and dinners, especially on the cruise and in key cities like Arequipa and Cusco. Additional meals are at your expense.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 15 people, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is there free time for independent exploration?
Yes, especially in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, where you can explore on your own or visit optional sites like Machu Picchu.

What are the accommodations like?
The tour includes hotels in city centers, and the cruise offers comfortable lodging on the Amazon. Exact hotel standards are not specified but are expected to be 3-4 star equivalents.

Can I participate if I am not a strong hiker?
Yes, but some excursions, like the hike to Huaynapicchu, are optional. You can choose to enjoy the sites from the base or on more relaxed tours.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is quite full, with scheduled activities and transfers, but there may be optional activities or free time to customize your experience.

This detailed tour in Peru offers a balanced, immersive, and well-organized journey through one of South America’s most captivating countries. Whether you’re marveling at ancient ruins, cruising on the Amazon, or photographing condors over Colca Canyon, you’ll come away with a deep appreciation of Peru’s diversity and beauty. For those eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning, it’s a solid choice — especially if you value guided insights and comfortable logistics.