From Lima: 13-Day Tour to Machu Picchu and Uyuni Salt Flats

From Lima: 13-Day Tour to Machu Picchu and Uyuni Salt Flats
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Price: $2,200 per person
Duration: 13 days
Supplier: Inspires Viagens

What makes this tour appealing?
First, it combines some of South America’s most iconic sights—Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Uyuni Salt Flats—into a well-paced 13-day itinerary. It’s a great way to see both Peru and Bolivia without the hassle of organizing each step yourself.
Second, the tour offers a chance to learn from local guides in small groups—limited to 15 travelers—which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds at must-see spots.

A potential consideration is the included flights, which are not part of the package, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, if you have mobility issues or back problems, some parts—like long bus rides or uneven terrain—may prove challenging.

This experience suits travelers who crave authentic encounters, enjoy a mixture of cultural sites and jaw-dropping landscapes, and prefer small-group travel for a more intimate feel. It’s especially ideal for those with a sense of adventure and patience for travel logistics.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Combines cities, lakes, and salt flats for a well-rounded adventure.
• Authentic Experiences: Guided tours in Cusco, Machu Picchu, La Paz, and Uyuni provide context and local insights.
• Stunning Landscapes: From Inca ruins to the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats, visuals are a highlight.
• Comfortable Logistics: All transfers, entrance fees, and most internal transportation are included, making the trip smoother.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for Price: At $2,200, the tour covers many major sights, accommodations, guides, and some meals—offering solid value for the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at This 13-Day Adventure

Starting in Lima — The Gateway to Peru

Your journey begins in the vibrant capital of Peru. After arriving at Lima’s airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. This initial night is a good chance to acclimate and soak in the city’s lively atmosphere before heading into the Andes.

From Lima to Cusco — The Ancient Inca Capital

The next day, a flight whisks you from Lima to Cusco, a city that buzzes with history and modern energy. Here, a guided tour takes you through key sites like the Cathedral, Qoricancha, and Sacsayhuamán. These ruins and churches reveal the blend of Inca and Spanish influences that shape Cusco’s character.

We loved the way the guide (whose name, if known, would add a personal touch) explained the significance of each site, making history come alive. Expect walking on cobblestone streets and some altitude—prepare for a gradual acclimation.

Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu — The Iconic Wonder

On Day 3, you’ll visit the Sacred Valley, a lush area dotted with traditional villages and Inca ruins. It’s a great chance to see local markets and experience indigenous culture in a more relaxed setting.

The highlight is, of course, Machu Picchu. You’ll travel by train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, then take a bus up to the ruins. A guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 4 reveals the complex’s mysteries and stunning craftsmanship. We particularly appreciated the early morning visit, which often offers fewer travelers and clearer views.

The included train tickets make this part of the trip smooth—no need to worry about organizing transport. Plus, the guided tour helps you understand the significance of each site, making the visit meaningful rather than just a photo op.

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From Cusco to Puno — The High-Altitude Lake

After returning to Cusco, you’ll transfer to Puno by bus, passing through scenic Andean landscapes. The journey is a highlight for many, offering views of terraced hills and traditional villages.

Once in Puno, a boat tour on Lake Titicaca takes you to the Uros floating islands—made of reeds—and the island of Taquile, where local artisans craft textiles and preserve their customs. Travelers often mention how the boat trip is an authentic experience that deepens appreciation of Andean culture.

Cross into Bolivia — Copacabana and La Paz

Next, you’ll cross the border into Bolivia, stopping in Copacabana to visit the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Copacabana. Then, a short transfer brings you to La Paz, the bustling Andean capital.

In La Paz, a guided tour includes highlights like the Valley of the Moon, a surreal landscape resembling the surface of the moon, and vibrant markets. The city’s unique topography—built into and atop rugged hills—adds to its charm.

The Salt Flats and Desert Landscapes of Uyuni

Day 9 involves a bus ride to Uyuni, where you’ll stay at the Desert Tayka Hotel. The next day is dedicated to exploring the Salt Flats, visiting lagoons like Honda, Hedionda, and Cañapa, with their colorful mineral-rich waters and flamingos.

The salt flats themselves are an otherworldly sight—vast, shimmering, and perfect for photography. Incahuasi Island, with its giant cacti, is a must-see. Many reviews highlight how riding across the flats creates a feeling of being on another planet.

You’ll also visit the Coipasa and Empexa Salt Flats—less crowded but equally fascinating—adding depth to your understanding of these unique ecosystems.

Returning to La Paz — Cultural and Natural Highlights

After the salt flats, your journey loops back to La Paz. The Valley of the Moon tour offers a final chance to see a landscape that looks like it was carved by giants, ending the trip on a surreal note.

Practicalities and Travel Tips

Throughout the tour, all transfers—hotels, airports, train stations—are included, easing the stress of logistics. The group size, capped at 15, means more personalized guides and fewer crowds.

The tour includes 12 breakfasts, and some meals are provided—such as a traditional dinner with folkloric show in La Paz—adding cultural flavor to the trip. However, you’ll need to arrange your own international flights, and internal flights in Peru and Bolivia are not included, so budgeting for those is essential.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Many travelers appreciate the chance to connect with local cultures, from the artisans of Taquile to the guides’ storytelling about Inca ruins. The boat trips on Lake Titicaca or the salt flats themselves are genuine highlights—places where nature and human hands create stunning visuals that stay with you long after the trip ends.

A Few Considerations

While the itinerary is packed with incredible sights, some longer bus rides—like the journey from Cusco to Puno or La Paz to Uyuni—are unavoidable and can be tiring. Also, the altitude at various stops (Cusco, Puno, La Paz) means you should be prepared for physical exertion and take it slow during your first days.

People with mobility issues or back problems might find some activities challenging due to uneven terrain or bus travel. The tour’s structure, however, is designed for comfort where possible, with transportation and accommodations included.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 13-day expedition offers a fantastic balance of curated logistics, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the highlights of Peru and Bolivia with expert guidance, all while enjoying the comfort of a small group. If your goal is to tick off grand sights like Machu Picchu and the Uyuni Salt Flats without worrying about the details, this tour delivers good value for the price.

The inclusion of cultural activities, the focus on authentic experiences, and the striking scenery make it a memorable journey. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a well-organized, comprehensive highlights trip that covers both ancient ruins and surreal natural wonders.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider how the long bus rides and altitude could impact your experience.

In the end, this adventure is a chance to see some of South America’s most iconic sights in one compact, thoughtfully planned package—offering a genuine glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I want to visit Machu Picchu?
Yes, the tour includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu with round-trip train tickets from Cusco and a transfer to Aguas Calientes.

Are flights included in the price?
No, international flights are not included, but internal flights from Lima to Cusco and from La Paz to Uyuni are not part of the package, so you’ll need to book those separately.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a small group of 15 participants, which helps ensure more personalized attention from your guides and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included every day, and some meals—like a lunch in the Sacred Valley and a dinner with folkloric show in La Paz—are included. You’ll need to budget for other meals.

Is it suitable for families or older travelers?
While suitable for most, those with mobility issues or back problems might find some activities challenging. The altitude and bus rides could also require some physical comfort and patience.

What should I pack?
Layered clothing for high-altitude and variable weather, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.

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

Is the tour at a good value?
Considering the comprehensive itinerary, guided tours, entrance fees, and accommodations, many travelers find the $2,200 price reasonable for a hassle-free, multi-country adventure.

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