Lima: Tour extraordinary with Cusco 11Days – 10nights

Lima: Tour extraordinary with Cusco 11Days – 10nights
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.6
Price: $1,330 per person
Supplier: Chullos Travel Peru
Similar Experiences: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Guided Tour, Full-Day Machu Picchu from Cusco, and others.

If you’re looking to tick off some of Peru’s most iconic sites in a well-organized itinerary, this 11-day tour offers a comprehensive experience from the bustling capital to the breathtaking peaks of the Andes. For $1,330, you get a journey through history, stunning natural wonders, and cultural insights, all with the comfort of small-group sizes (limited to 15 travelers).

What we love most are the seamless transitions between city sights and outdoor adventures — like the visit to Machu Picchu combined with the adrenaline of sandboarding in Huacachina or hiking to Lake Humantay. The inclusion of a private guide who speaks both English and Spanish means you’ll get richer explanations along the way.

A potential drawback? The itinerary is packed — some days start very early (think 4 a.m.) and involve long transfers. If your travel style favors relaxed pacing, this might feel rushed at times. But for those eager to see a lot in a short period, it’s a genuine value.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active days, culture, and diverse landscapes — from historic ruins to mountain vistas. It’s perfect if you’re prepared for a busy schedule and want guided expertise to navigate Peru’s highlights efficiently.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: Combines city tours, archaeological sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides enhance understanding of history and local customs.
• All-Inclusive Value: Most entrance fees, train tickets, and some meals are included, reducing hassle.
• Active Days: Expect early mornings, hikes, and outdoor activities like sandboarding and trekking.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants for a more personal, engaging trip.
• Comprehensive Coverage: From Lima’s city sights to remote mountain lakes and iconic ruins, this tour covers a lot.

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Starting in Lima: A city of contrasts

Your adventure begins with a city tour of Lima, the Peruvian capital that mixes colonial charm with modern hustle. The guide, likely someone like María or José, will pick you up from your hotel around 1:30 p.m., and you’ll kick things off at Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Incan pyramid rising amid the Miraflores district. It’s a striking site that offers a glimpse into Lima’s ancient past right in the middle of a bustling city.

From there, a stroll through Lima’s historic center reveals colonial architecture and grand plazas — think of it as Peru’s version of a European city, but with a twist. You might appreciate the contrast of old and new, which perfectly sets the tone for your trip. Travelers often comment on the knowledgeable guides who make history come alive, sharing stories that make the sites memorable.

Day trips along the coast: Ballestas Islands and Huacachina

The next morning, you’ll leave before dawn (around 3-4 a.m.) for the coast, heading to the Ballestas Islands. These tiny islands, often called the “Galápagos of Peru,” are teeming with sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. The boat ride offers fantastic photo opportunities, and many travelers love the close-up encounters with wildlife.

Afterward, you’ll visit a vineyard for lunch — a chance to enjoy local wines and relax. The afternoon is dedicated to Huacachina, a desert oasis surrounded by towering dunes. Here, your guide will take you sandboarding and give a thrilling tour of the dunes — a highlight for adventure lovers. As one reviewer put it, “Sandboarding was hilarious and a real adrenaline rush.”

Nazca Lines: Aerial mystery and marvel

On Day 4, you’ll get an early start with a Nazca Overflight. The 35-minute plane ride over the Nazca Desert reveals the famous geoglyphs — massive figures of animals like the spider, monkey, and bird, only fully visible from the air. The experience is awe-inspiring but also requires a stomach for small planes and early mornings.

Reviews note that the flight is “worthwhile but a bit nerve-wracking,” especially for those prone to altitude or motion sickness. The geoglyphs’ size and precision are remarkable, and many travelers find the aerial perspective makes the lines suddenly understandable.

Transition to Cusco: From city to mountains

After these coastal adventures, you fly or transfer to Cusco. On Day 5, there’s a relaxed city tour of Cusco, including Qoricancha, the Sun Temple, and the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuamán. Guides like Juan and Rosa excel at explaining the Inca history and the blending of cultural influences, leaving you with a richer understanding of the region.

You’ll have the afternoon free to acclimate — a key point since Cusco sits at over 11,000 feet. We recommend drinking coca tea and taking it easy. Many travelers find this helps prevent altitude sickness, especially during the active days ahead.

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Sacred Valley: From Pisac to Ollantaytambo

Day 6 is designed to showcase the Sacred Valley, a lush corridor dotted with archaeological sites and markets. The visit to Pisac is a highlight — its bustling market and impressive terraced ruins are emblematic of Inca ingenuity. Following a buffet lunch in Urubamba, you’ll explore Ollantaytambo, a beautifully preserved Inca town with terraced streets and a fortress with commanding views.

Later in the day, you board the train to Machu Picchu. The train ride itself is a scenic journey through the mountains, and many say it’s a relaxing way to transition between sites.

The Marvel at Machu Picchu

Day 7 is the iconic highlight. You’ll rise early, take the bus up to Machu Picchu, and enjoy a guided tour of this mysterious city. For 2.5 hours, your guide will explain the history, architecture, and purpose of this ancient site, which many visitors find breathtaking.

You’ll love the way Machu Picchu’s stonework fits together so perfectly — a true testament to Inca engineering. After the guided tour, there’s free time to explore on your own, take photos, or hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate).

Many reviews mention that the experience feels “magical,” especially when the early morning light hits the ruins. Lunch in Aguas Calientes provides a break before heading back down and returning to Cusco.

Humantay Lake: A mountain paradise

On Day 8, you’re up before dawn again for the Hike to Humantay Lake. The scenic drive past Mollepata is followed by a trek to the lagoon, nestled among towering snow-capped peaks. Here, you’ll be treated to incredible views of flora and fauna, making the effort worthwhile.

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and walking sticks, which many find helpful. The hike is strenuous but rewarding — a favorite for those wanting a genuine outdoor experience.

Rainbow Mountain: Colorful peaks and high-altitude trekking

Day 9 takes you to Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain. After an early breakfast, you’ll travel to the trailhead and hike up to the vibrant ridge. The colors are astonishing, and many travelers describe it as “like walking through a painter’s palette.”

The experience is physically demanding due to the high altitude, but the views make it worthwhile. A buffet lunch awaits after the descent, and many note that the guides keep everyone motivated and safe.

Uros and Taquile Islands: Cultural immersion on Lake Titicaca

The final full day involves a long journey to Puno, where you explore Uros Floating Islands — made of totora reeds — and the traditional Taquile Island. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see how local communities live and their handcrafted textiles.

The boat rides and visits are leisurely, and lunch is included on Taquile. Returning to Cusco late at night, the journey is about 6 hours, so be prepared for a long travel day.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Peru’s highlights, combining historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural depth. The inclusion of guides, entrance fees, and train tickets makes it convenient, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

While the schedule is intense and early mornings are common, those who enjoy active days and varied landscapes will find this itinerary rewarding. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of booking separate tours or transportation, giving you the confidence to enjoy each moment.

FAQs

• Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
  The tour involves some strenuous activities like hiking to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with early mornings and outdoor walking.

• Are meals included?
  Breakfasts and lunches are included on most days, especially during outdoor excursions and in key cities. Dinners are typically not included.

• What should I bring?
  Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a passport or ID. Be prepared for high-altitude conditions and outdoor activities.

• Is there free cancellation?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

• Will I have a bilingual guide?
  Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, enhancing your understanding of the sites and history.

• Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
  The itinerary is not recommended for pregnant women, people with vertigo, epilepsy, recent surgeries, or over 70 years old due to physical activity and altitude considerations.

In essence, this 11-day Peru tour by Chullos Travel is an excellent choice for travelers eager to combine cultural exploration with outdoor adventure. It balances guided visits with free time, offers authentic experiences at iconic sites, and ensures you travel comfortably and safely across some of South America’s most stunning landscapes. If you’re ready for a memorable and active journey through Peru’s highlights, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby