10-Day Taste Peru Experience: Lima, Nasca, Cusco & Machu Picchu.

A 10-Day Journey through Peru’s Most Iconic Sites with VIPAC Travel

This 10-day Taste Peru Experience offers a well-rounded adventure through the country’s most famous sights. For $1,964 per person, you’ll explore Lima’s historic center and vibrant plazas, soar over the mysterious Nazca Lines, wander the ancient streets of Cusco, and marvel at the Machu Picchu ruins. The trip is designed for travelers who want a mix of culture, scenic flights, and hassle-free logistics, with private transfers and carefully curated tours included from arrival to departure.

What we love most about this tour is its seamless organization—hotels and transfers are included, meaning you won’t spend hours hunting down transportation or accommodations. Plus, the expert guides bring history to life, making each site feel authentic and engaging. The highlight? The scenic flight over Nazca Lines—a once-in-a-lifetime view you simply cannot get from the ground.

One thing to consider: The tour involves some long travel days and altitude changes in Cusco, so if you’re sensitive to elevation or on a tight schedule, plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy rich history, stunning landscapes, and well-organized itineraries. Whether you’re visiting Peru for the first time or seeking a rundown, you’ll find that this trip balances adventure with comfort, thanks to the positive reviews praising its knowledgeable guides and excellent service.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Lima, Nasca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu
• All-inclusive with hotels, transfers, and some meals, reducing planning stress
• Expert guides provide rich, engaging insights into Peru’s sites
• Scenic flight over Nazca Lines offers a unique perspective unavailable from the ground
• Good value for money given the number of sights and included services
• Long travel days and altitude considerations are important to plan for

A Practical Guide to the 10-Day Taste Peru Experience

This tour stands out for its careful planning and the variety of sights it includes. From the bustling streets of Lima to the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, every step of the way is designed to maximize your experience without the hassle of organizing everything on your own. The inclusion of private transfers means you won’t wrestle with taxis or buses, and your guides are there to deepen your understanding and keep the trip flowing smoothly.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What You’ll See and Feel

Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Arriving in Peru’s capital, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. This first moment sets the tone—expect a warm welcome and a chance to get your bearings in this vibrant city.

Day 2: Exploring Lima
Your morning kicks off with a tour through Lima’s historic center. You’ll visit the Basilica Cathedral of Lima, iconic plazas, and colonial architecture. Highlights include the Love Park in Miraflores with ocean views and the Huaca Pucllana, an important ceremonial site of the Lima culture.

Then, you’ll enjoy the Magic Water Circuit—a show of fountains with colorful illumination, combining fun and a bit of spectacle. It’s a great way to experience the city’s modern, creative side after a day of exploring history and culture.

Day 3: Nazca and Scenic Flight
Travel south to Paracas in a comfortable, exclusive service. Here, you’ll board a small plane for the Nazca Lines overflight. Many reviews praise this as a highlight—“views you can’t get from the ground,” and a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. While it’s a short flight, it transforms the ancient geoglyphs into a vivid, detailed canvas seen from above.

Afterward, you’re free to relax at your hotel or explore locally.

Day 4: From Ica to Lima via Huacachina
Your journey continues with a visit to the Tacama winery, one of the oldest in Peru, where you’ll learn about pisco production and sample local wines. The highlight here is the chance to see colonial architecture and observe traditional vineyard practices.

Next, a quick stop at the Huacachina Oasis, where sand dunes surround a small lagoon—perfect for photos and a reminder of Peru’s contrasting landscapes. The day wraps up with a return trip to Lima.

Day 5: Flight to Cusco
The flight to Cusco is a vital part of this experience, as it allows you to begin exploring Peru’s high-altitude city comfortably. Upon arrival, your guides take you to San Pedro Market and Korikancha—the Temple of the Sun, covered in gold leaf, which still dazzles visitors.

Walking through Cusco’s artisan neighborhood of San Blas adds a touch of local charm, and guides make sure you understand how the Inca Empire’s history is woven into the city’s streets.

Day 6: Cusco’s Inca Fortresses
An early start takes you away from the crowds to visit Sacsayhuamán, a fortress built with jaw-dropping stonework. The nearby Q’enqo site features a sacrificial altar carved into a rock, adding a spiritual dimension.

You’ll also see Puca Pucara and Tambomachay, important sites of Inca architecture and cosmology. The guide’s insights bring these ancient structures to life, making history feel surprisingly tangible.

Day 7: Sacred Valley
This day is packed with cultural and archaeological highlights. At Awanacancha, you’ll see Andean camelids and traditional weaving techniques—great for photos and understanding local traditions.

The visit to Pisac blends Inca ruins and colonial town charm, followed by a market where local artisans sell their crafts. The Inkariy Museum offers an in-depth cultural perspective, and the included buffet lunch keeps everyone fueled for more exploration.

Day 8: Ollantaytambo and Surroundings
This day takes you to Moray, with its concentric terraces demonstrating microclimates—an agricultural marvel. Then, the Maras salt mines showcase ancient techniques still in use today.

Exploring these less-visited sites gives you a deeper appreciation for Inca ingenuity and sustainability.

Day 9: Machu Picchu
The highlight of many trips, Machu Picchu, is truly awe-inspiring. The journey up the winding road offers spectacular views, and the guided tour reveals the fascinating layout of this “Lost City of the Incas.” You’ll learn about its purpose and the engineering that makes it such a marvel.

Enjoy a buffet lunch nearby before returning to Cusco, already carrying unforgettable memories.

Day 10: Departure
Your trip ends with a transfer to the airport, taking with you a head full of stories and a camera full of stunning images.

Transport, Guides, and Logistics: Why They Matter

Throughout this tour, private transfers ensure comfort and punctuality—something many reviewers mention as a major plus—“they were always on time,” and guides are described as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “professional.” This setup means less stress, more immersion, and a better overall experience.

The scenic flight over Nazca, in a small plane with only 12 passengers, maximizes your chances of clear views and a personal feeling of adventure. The group size in total is limited to 20 travelers, maintaining an intimate, engaging atmosphere.

The inclusion of hotels and some meals makes this a fairly good value—especially considering the number of UNESCO sites, cultural experiences, and scenic flights packed into 10 days. You’re paying for comfort, expert guidance, and convenience, which many reviews say is worth it.

Why This Tour Works Well for You

This trip suits those who want a structured yet flexible itinerary, with an emphasis on authentic experiences and expert guides. If you appreciate detailed historical explanations and scenery that makes your jaw drop, you’ll love the knowledgeable guides like Greta, Carolina, and Ronny, praised repeatedly in reviews.

Travelers who like scenic flights, archaeological sites, and local culture will find this itinerary rich and varied. Keep in mind that the altitude changes and long days require some physical stamina and altitude awareness.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a rundown of Peru’s most famous highlights without the stress of planning each detail, this tour offers a great package. The hotels and private transport provide comfort, and the guided visits ensure you get meaningful context and avoid tourist traps.

The Nazca flight alone is a unique experience that many reviews describe as unforgettable. Plus, the inclusion of Machu Picchu with a guided tour and buffet lunch makes this a convenient and fulfilling option.

However, the long travel days and altitude altitude in Cusco mean this trip is best for active, open-minded travelers prepared for some physical exertion and altitude adjustment.

For those who value expert guides, authentic cultural touches, scenic flights, and good organization, this tour could be just the right fit—delivering a memorable taste of Peru’s many treasures.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers who suffer from altitude sickness?
Yes, but you should prepare by bringing medication or consulting with your doctor. Cusco is high altitude, so some travelers may experience discomfort.

Are all meals included in the price?
Not all meals are included, but breakfast is provided each day. Some lunches and dinners are part of the tour, like the buffet in Machu Picchu and the one at Tacama winery.

How large are the groups during excursions?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, which keeps things intimate and allows guides to give more personalized attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Are the scenic flights over Nazca guaranteed?
Flights are in small planes that hold up to 12 passengers. While cancellations are rare, weather conditions can affect schedules.

Do I need special documents or passports?
Yes, you’ll need to provide passport details when booking. Make sure your passport is valid for travel.

Is this tour good for families?
Most travelers recommend it for active adults and older children due to the physical aspects and altitude. Check specific age restrictions for Nazca flights.

What about the quality of hotels?
Reviews repeatedly praise the hotels for their comfort and location, making your stay pleasant after busy days of sightseeing.

This 10-day tour offers a well-paced, authentic, and well-supported introduction to Peru’s most iconic sites. Whether you’re captivated by ancient ruins, intrigued by local culture, or simply want the comfort of expert-guided travel, it provides a solid choice for your Peruvian adventure.