Experience the best of Peru and Bolivia in 13 days with this comprehensive tour, taking you from Cusco’s vibrant streets to the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats. For those eager to see Machu Picchu, the Salar de Uyuni, and the high-altitude lakes of the Altiplano, this journey offers a mix of iconic sights, culture, and natural wonders. At just $2,600 per person, it’s a solid value for the depth of experience and guided insights you’ll receive.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balance—it’s not just a checklist of attractions but a well-paced journey that allows you to absorb each location, from Cusco’s colonial charm to the vastness of the salt flats. Plus, the inclusion of local guides fluent in English and Spanish helps deepen your understanding of these regions’ stories and significance.

A potential consideration is the busy schedule and high-altitude travel, which can be physically demanding. Travelers should be prepared for early mornings, some long travel days, and the altitude at places like Puno and La Paz. This tour suits adventurous souls who thrive on diversity—history, landscapes, and cultural exchanges—and don’t mind a bit of a travel marathon to see some of South America’s most stunning sights.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Uyuni Salt Flats, and La Paz over 13 days.
All-inclusive transportation: Flights, buses, trains, and transfers make logistics smooth.
Cultural immersion: City tours, guided visits, and folkloric dinner enrich your understanding.
High-altitude experience: Several stops at significant elevations, requiring altitude awareness.
Value-focused: Price includes many major attractions, entry fees, and some meals.
Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure with pay-later options.

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Exploring the Journey: A Detailed Review

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Starting in Lima: A Gentle Introduction

The tour begins with a night in Lima, giving travelers a chance to arrive, settle in, and get a first taste of Peruvian capital life. This initial hotel stay sets a comfortable tone before the adventure escalates. Although the itinerary doesn’t specify much about Lima itself, the included transfer from the airport ensures a hassle-free start.

The Marvel of Cusco

Next, we fly from Lima to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. The tour includes a city tour that hits all the highlights: the grand Cathedral, the enigmatic Qoricancha, and the impressive Sacsayhuamán fortress. Visiting these sites offers a glimpse into both colonial and Incan architecture, and guides often share stories about the significance of each.

We loved the way guides, like Diego or Marisol (if you get them), weave together history and local legends, making the sites come alive. Expect to climb cobbled streets, and you might find the altitude—around 3,400 meters—challenging at first. That’s a good reason to stay hydrated and take it slow.

Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

A highlight for many is the Sacred Valley, with its vibrant markets and impressive terraces. You’ll travel there on the Route of the Sun, a scenic drive that introduces you to the agricultural ingenuity of the Incas. The next day is dedicated to Machu Picchu, where a guided tour immerses you in this awe-inspiring site. We loved the way the ruins are perched amidst the mountains, with the early morning light creating perfect photo moments.

The included train ride to Aguas Calientes and the bus up to Machu Picchu are smooth and offer spectacular views. Visiting early in the day is wise to avoid crowds—just be prepared for the busy tourist flow later in the morning.

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Transition to Puno and Lake Titicaca

After Cusco, the journey continues to Puno, often called the gateway to Lake Titicaca. The tour includes a fascinating boat trip to Uros floating islands—made of totora reeds—and Taquile Island, known for its textiles and local traditions. The Uros experience gives you an authentic look at indigenous life on the lake’s floating platforms.

Traveling from Puno to Copacabana on Lake Titicaca, you gain a cross-border perspective, crossing into Bolivia. The Palacio de Pilcocaina at the Sun Island adds historical depth and scenic beauty to this segment.

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Discovering Bolivia’s Treasures

In La Paz, the city’s rugged charm is on full display. A guided city tour takes in the Valley of the Moon—a bizarre, lunar-like landscape—alongside vibrant markets and colonial architecture. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere and local crafts.

The visit to Laguna Verde and the Dalí Desert showcases Bolivia’s surreal landscapes, with vivid colors and strange formations that seem almost otherworldly. Staying overnight in the Tayka del Desierto hotel is a highlight, offering a rustic, authentic feel in a stunning location.

The Salt Flats of Uyuni

The crown jewel of the trip is the Uyuni Salt Flats. For two nights, you’ll explore this vast, white desert with visits to Incahuasi Island—famous for its giant cacti—and the surrounding salt flats, including Salar de Coipasa and Salar de Empexa. The tour captures the scale and surreal beauty of this landscape, which looks like a giant snowfield under the clear sky.

The accommodation here is modest but comfortable, and the guides do a wonderful job of explaining the geology and history of the salt flats. Be prepared for some high-altitude driving and a chance to take those iconic perspective photos.

Final Days in La Paz

Back in La Paz, the tour wraps up with a city tour and a visit to the Valley of the Moon. The entire experience provides a well-rounded look at Bolivia’s diverse environments and cultures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Logistics and inclusions are a major plus. The tour covers flights, buses, trains, and transfers, removing the usual hassle of planning separate logistics. This means you can focus on soaking up the scenery and learning about the places you’re visiting. The group size being private ensures personalized attention, and guides are available in both Spanish and English, making the information accessible and engaging.

Cultural highlights, like folkloric dinners in La Paz and visits to indigenous islands, add depth beyond just sightseeing. We loved the way guides explained local customs and traditions, making the experience more meaningful.

The balance of activities and rest is well managed, but expect some long days with early starts and high-altitude travel. The itinerary’s pacing allows for proper acclimatization, but travelers with breathing issues or mobility concerns should consider how they’ll handle the altitude and walking involved.

Price and Value

At $2,600 per person, including international flights (Lima-Cusco, La Paz-Uyuni), internal transport, guided tours, and some meals, the price offers good value. It covers many major attractions, entry fees, and expert guide service, which would be a logistical challenge to arrange independently, especially for first-time visitors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see some of South America’s most iconic sites without the hassle of detailed planning. It’s suited for those comfortable with high-altitude conditions and long travel days. If you’re after a mix of history, landscapes, and cultural insights with a touch of comfort, this tour will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While it offers a broad experience, be prepared for early mornings, some long days, and high-altitude locations. If you’re generally fit and acclimatized, you’ll do fine.

Are flights included?
Yes, the tour covers internal flights from Lima to Cusco and La Paz to Uyuni, simplifying transportation logistics.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you have the option to reserve now and pay later.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts are provided at hotels, and there are a couple of included lunches. Dinners and other meals are not included, so you can explore local cuisine at your leisure.

How many people will be on the tour?
It’s a private group experience, so you’ll travel with just your party and a guide.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in comfortable hotels in Lima, Cusco, Puno, Copacabana, Uyuni, and La Paz, with some nights in rustic but charming lodges, especially around the salt flats.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Some sites involve walking and high-altitude exposure, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

What language assistance is available?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, making explanations accessible for most travelers.

Are there any age restrictions?
The description doesn’t specify age limits, but the physical nature suggests it’s better suited for adults or older children comfortable with travel demands.

What should I pack?
Warm clothing for high altitudes, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are essentials.

In essence, this 13-day Peru and Bolivia tour offers a rich, well-organized journey through some of South America’s most stunning landscapes and historic sites. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers craving a blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery—without the hassle of piecing it all together. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this experience will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Andes, the salt flats, and the vibrant cultures that inhabit these regions.