Peru and Bolivia 16 days 15 nights

Imagine spending 16 days uncovering some of South America’s most iconic sights—from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the surreal salt flats of Uyuni. At $2,242 per person, this guided journey takes you through Peru’s vibrant cities, archaeological sites, and stunning natural landscapes, before crossing into Bolivia for the legendary salt flats and high-altitude wonders. Led by bilingual guides, you’ll experience everything from scenic train rides to local markets, all with a manageable group size of no more than 15 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

What we love about this tour is how it balances culture with adventure. First, the visit to Machu Picchu, with a guided tour of the legendary citadel, is a highlight that never gets old—there’s just something about standing amidst those ancient stones that stirs the soul. Second, the journey across the Uyuni salt flats offers a once-in-a-lifetime landscape—vast, otherworldly, and endlessly fascinating. We also appreciate the inclusion of key activities like the Nazca Lines overflight and the colorful Rainbow Mountain trek, which give a well-rounded taste of the region’s diversity.

A potential drawback? With a packed itinerary that includes early mornings and long bus rides (notably the 10-hour trip from Puno to Uyuni), this tour demands stamina and flexibility. If you’re not accustomed to high-altitude travel or tight schedules, some days could feel intense. However, for those craving a comprehensive, authentic experience of both Peru and Bolivia, this trip offers excellent value.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local culture, and who don’t mind a busy schedule to see the highlights of two countries in one trip. Perfect for curious explorers eager to see Machu Picchu, the Uyuni salt flats, and everything in between, all while staying in comfortable hotels.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers highlights from Lima to Uyuni, including Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and Salt Flats.
• Balance of activities and rest: Includes scenic tours, hikes, and cultural visits, with some long travel days.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 participants, fostering a more personal, engaging experience.
• Authentic cultural experiences: Visits to local markets, salt mines, and traditional villages.
• Value for the price: Price includes accommodations, most transfers, and key excursions like the Nazca Lines overflight.
• Travel flexibility: Book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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An In-Depth Look at the 16-Day Journey

Starting in Lima: City Tour and Paracas

Your adventure begins with a pick-up at the airport and a leisurely city tour of Lima. This provides a gentle introduction to the Peruvian capital’s blend of colonial architecture and modern vibrancy. The next morning, you’re up early to transfer south to Paracas, a coastal town famed for its wildlife and beautiful scenery. Visiting the Ballestas Islands by boat offers a close-up encounter with sea lions, seabirds, and the possibility of seeing dolphins—think of it as a wildlife highlight that’s both accessible and exciting.

From Paracas, your journey continues to Ica and Huacachina, where the vast desert landscape is perfect for trying sandboarding or simply marveling at the oasis’s solitude. The next day, an overflight of the Nazca Lines gives an aerial perspective of the mysterious geoglyphs, which remain one of the world’s most intriguing archaeological enigmas. The flight, included in the tour, is an optional highlight for many travelers who want to see these ancient designs from above.

Into the Andes: Cusco and the Sacred Valley

After exploring coastal Peru, you’ll fly to Cusco, the ancient heart of the Inca Empire. The city tour introduces you to colonial cathedrals, vibrant markets, and Inca sites. From there, the Sacred Valley offers picturesque villages like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where Inca architecture and terracing still dominate the landscape.

One of the tour’s best moments is boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Traveling on the Expedition train adds a touch of romance and adventure, offering scenic views of the Andean countryside. It’s a trip that balances comfort with the magic of rail travel.

Machu Picchu: The Highlight

No trip to Peru is complete without visiting Machu Picchu. You’ll travel early in the morning by bus to beat the crowds, accompanied by a guide who can share insights into this awe-inspiring site. Expect to spend several hours exploring the terraces, temples, and plazas. The experience of walking through these ancient stones, surrounded by cloud-kissed mountains, is unforgettable.

After returning to Aguas Calientes and catching the train back to Ollantaytambo, the tour takes you to Maras and Moray, where the salt mines and agricultural terraces reveal Inca ingenuity. These sites are practical demonstrations of ancient self-sufficiency and resourcefulness, and you’re encouraged to appreciate their engineering marvels.

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The High-Altitude Treks: Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain

For those seeking adventure, the tour offers two notable high-altitude excursions. The Humantay Lagoon trek is a moderate hike rewarding you with stunning views of a turquoise glacial lake framed by snow-capped peaks. Expect an early start and a walk of around 1.5 hours, but it’s worth every step for the photo opportunities.

Later, the Rainbow Mountain trek involves waking before dawn to reach this vibrant, striped peak. The 3-hour drive south from Cusco is followed by a challenging but rewarding hike to see colors that seem almost surreal. The climb is strenuous due to altitude, so physical readiness and acclimatization are recommended.

Crossing into Bolivia: Uros, Amantaní, and Puno

Traveling from Cusco, you’ll board a bus to Puno, crossing the border into Bolivia. The trip on day 12 takes about 10 hours, which can be tiring but offers scenery of high plains and rugged mountains. Once in Puno, the journey shifts to lakeside life, with visits to Uros Floating Islands and Amantaní. These traditional communities provide a glimpse of life on the lake, with local families welcoming you for lunch and cultural exchanges.

The next day, a boat ride takes you to Taquile Island, famous for its textiles and local customs. These visits are authentic and often praised for their storytelling, giving travelers a chance to learn directly from local residents.

The Salt Flats of Uyuni and Altitude Adventures

The Bolivian segment begins with a trip to the Uyuni Salt Flats—the tour’s pièce de résistance. The vast, shimmering white expanse feels like walking on another planet. You’ll visit the cemetery of trains and local craft workshops before settling into a rustic salt lodge. The landscape here is surreal, and the microprocessor salt production site illustrates how this salt is harvested, adding an educational aspect to the trip.

A highlight is the visit to Laguna Colorada, a flamingo habitat with striking red waters, and Laguna Hedionda with its geysers and fumaroles. These high-altitude lakes, often dotted with flamingos, increase the sense of otherworldliness. Staying in a community family lodge adds an authentic touch, allowing you to connect more deeply with local life.

The Final Days: Volcanoes, Fumarolas, and Return to La Paz

Early morning visits to fumaroles and hot springs at Polques offer a geothermal spectacle, while the Ollague Volcano Viewpoint provides panoramic views of volcanic landscapes. These are rugged, natural experiences that highlight the raw power of the high Andes.

The journey concludes with a long night bus back to La Paz, where after 10 hours of travel, you arrive ready to reflect on your adventure. The transfer to La Paz airport on day 16 wraps up this whirlwind exploration.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from past travelers consistently highlights the tour’s rich variety and well-organized structure. One reviewer remarked, “We loved the way the itinerary packed in so many iconic sights, but the pace was still manageable.” Another shared, “Seeing the salt flats and Machu Picchu in one trip is unbeatable, though the long travel days require good stamina.”

Some mention the early mornings—especially for Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon—as a challenge but also as part of the adventure. The small group size is often praised for making the experience more personal, with guides able to provide tailored insights.

Practical Considerations and Final Thoughts

This tour is a well-balanced mix of guided excursions, scenic travel, and cultural experiences. The inclusion of accommodations, most transfers, and key activities like the Nazca Lines flight makes it good value for the price. However, expect some long days—especially the night bus to Uyuni and early starts for high-altitude hikes—so packing light, staying flexible, and preparing for altitude are wise.

It’s also worth noting that the trip is designed for those who want a rundown of Peru and Bolivia, rather than a leisurely pace. If you’re a traveler who thrives on seeing a lot of sights in a short time, this might be perfect. Conversely, if you prefer slow travel or have mobility concerns, some parts may feel rushed.

This 16-day journey offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and history, making it an excellent choice for adventurous souls eager to explore South America’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers 15 nights of accommodation with daily breakfast, transfers, the Nazca Lines overflight, shared guided excursions in both countries, food as outlined in the itinerary, and train tickets between Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo.

Are international and domestic flights included?
No, travelers need to arrange their own international flights to and from Peru and Bolivia. The tour does not include domestic flights either.

What about drinks with meals?
Drinks are not included in the meals unless specified. You might want to carry some cash or cards for beverages, especially when trying local drinks or bottled water.

Can I join the tour if I have limited travel experience?
The tour involves some long travel days and high-altitude hikes, so a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with active travel is recommended.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 15 participants, which encourages a more personalized experience and easier group dynamics.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and cultural insights.

How strenuous are the hikes?
The Humantay Lagoon hike takes about 1.5 hours, and Rainbow Mountain involves a strenuous climb at high altitude. Good acclimatization and physical readiness are important.

What should I pack for high-altitude sites?
Layered clothing, sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes, and a good camera are essential, along with warm clothes for colder evenings.

Is this trip suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group setting provides a friendly environment for solo travelers, and many reviews mention making new friends during the trip.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This thorough, balanced adventure is perfect for those who want a taste of the best South America has to offer—crafted with care, full of memorable moments, and designed for explorers eager to see the iconic sights and hidden gems of Peru and Bolivia.

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