Peru in 16 Days || Lima – Cusco – Puno – Bolivia || Hotel***

Discover Peru and Bolivia in 16 Days: An Authentic Journey through Iconic Landscapes and Cultural Treasures
This 16-day tour takes you through some of South America’s most incredible sights, starting in Lima, then weaving through Paracas, the Nazca Lines, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the stunning Lake Titicaca islands. The adventure culminates in the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia. Priced at $2,571 per person, with a mix of 3-star hotels and charming local lodges, this experience is designed for travelers who crave a balance between comfort, culture, and striking scenery.

What we love about this tour: First, the carefully curated itinerary hits all the big-ticket highlights while providing authentic local experiences, like staying in a family lodging in Uyuni or visiting salt mines. Second, the inclusion of guides and transportation makes navigating these diverse regions manageable, especially for those who don’t want to worry about logistics.

A possible consideration is the long travel days, especially when moving between major sites or crossing borders — but it’s a small trade-off for seeing so much. This tour suits those who are adventurous but appreciate comfort, interested in culture and landscapes, and eager for a balanced mix of guided tours and free time.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Peru’s highlights from Lima to Machu Picchu and Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes visits to local markets, salt mines, and island communities.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Hotels rated 3 stars in key locations, with unique lodges in Uyuni.
• Expert Guides & Transportation: Guides speak English and Spanish, ensuring smooth transitions across diverse landscapes.
• Long Travel Days: Expect some lengthy journeys, especially between Puno and Uyuni.
• All-inclusive Value: Most major attractions, some meals, and entrances are covered, adding convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Peru and Bolivia 16-Day Tour

Starting in Lima: A Taster of Peruvian Capital

Your adventure begins in Lima, where a guide will meet you at the airport for a city tour. Lima offers a lively mix of historic sites, modern neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine. The tour helps you get your bearings and introduces you to key landmarks, setting the stage for your journey. The hotel stay here is in a 3-star hotel, providing a comfortable base without breaking the bank.

First impressions often focus on Lima’s vibrant streets and colonial architecture. Guides, like “Maria” (if you’re lucky enough to meet her), tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, making the city feel welcoming and accessible.

The Coastal Charm of Paracas and the Ballestas Islands

Early the next day, you’ll be transferred to Paracas, a small coastal town famous for its wildlife and scenic beauty. The highlight here is the Ballestas Islands boat tour, where you’ll see sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds — a wildlife lover’s dream and a memorable start to your nature encounters.

That afternoon, you can relax in Ica or visit the Huacachina oasis, where you might try sandboarding or take a dune buggy ride. These activities are fun and add a dash of adventure to your trip.

Overflight of Nazca Lines: A Must-See in the Desert

The following morning, you’ll head to the Nazca Lines, famous for their mysterious geoglyphs. The overflight is a highlight, offering a bird’s-eye view of these ancient drawings. It’s worth noting the small aircraft can be bumpy, but the experience of seeing the lines from above is worth the slight discomfort.

This segment combines history, mystery, and a bit of adrenaline, making it a standout part of the tour.

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Moving to the Heart of the Andes: Cusco

Next, you’ll take a morning flight from Lima to Cusco, the historic capital of the Incas. Upon arrival, a city tour introduces you to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, and the charming cobblestone streets of this high-altitude city. Staying in a 3-star hotel, you’ll have time to acclimate and explore at your own pace.

Cusco’s blend of colonial architecture and Incan ruins creates a vivid sense of history. We loved the way guides explained the significance of sites like Sacsayhuamán, making ancient stones come alive with stories.

The Sacred Valley: Markets, Ruins, and the Train to Machu Picchu

Your journey continues into the Sacred Valley, with visits to Pisac market and Ollantaytambo fortress, both packed with local craft stalls and impressive Inca stonework. The buffet lunch in the valley is typically satisfying, giving you energy for the afternoon.

Later, you’ll board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The scenic ride along the Urubamba River offers great photo opportunities and sets a relaxed tone for the next day.

Machu Picchu: The Iconic Inca Citadel

The next morning, a bus takes you up to Machu Picchu, where a guided tour reveals the mysteries of this remarkable site. You’ll learn about the engineering, purpose, and history of the Incas who built it. We found the experience both awe-inspiring and educational.

After exploring, you can wander on your own or enjoy the panoramic views. Returning to Aguas Calientes and then by train to Ollantaytambo, you’ll appreciate the seamless transportation arrangements.

Maras, Moray, and Salt Mines — A Day of Natural Wonders

Back in Cusco, a day trip takes you to Maras salt mines and Moray circular terraces — sites that show the ingenuity of Incan agriculture and salt extraction. The guide will explain the significance of these sites, which are fascinating glimpses into traditional practices still in use today.

The Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain: High-Altitude Marvels

For the more active, two challenging day trips await: Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain. Both require early starts, but the views of turquoise waters and the multi-colored peaks are worth the effort.

Humantay Lake, nestled among glaciers, provides a pristine welcome to the high Andes. Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant stripes of mineral deposits create a rainbow of colors against the stark landscape. We loved the way guides managed the altitude, offering tips to prevent altitude sickness.

Transition to Puno and Lake Titicaca

From Cusco, you’ll travel by tourist bus to Puno, a city on Lake Titicaca. Here, you’ll visit the floating Uros Islands, made of totora reeds, and then Amantani, where you stay overnight in a local family lodging. The experience offers insight into local life and traditions.

The next day, a boat tour takes you to Taquile Island, famous for its weaving and communal culture. Sharing a traditional breakfast and walking through lush hills offers visitors a genuine taste of indigenous life.

Crossing into Bolivia: La Paz and Uyuni

After exploring Puno’s lakes, you’ll cross into Bolivia, heading from Puno to La Paz by tourist bus. The journey lasts about 10 hours, giving you a sense of the landscape change as you descend into Bolivia’s vibrant capital.

From La Paz, you’ll travel to Uyuni for the salt flats adventure. The Salt Hotel, built from salt blocks, makes for a memorable overnight stay. The following days include visits to lagunas, volcanoes, and fumaroles, all part of the surreal Salar de Uyuni experience.

Exploring the Surreal Salt Flats and Volcanoes

In Uyuni, a 4×4 tour takes you across the salt flats, visiting Cemetery of Trains, rustic micro-processor of salt, and colorful lagoons like Hedionda and Colorada. The landscape feels like walking on a giant mirror or a different planet.

The tour also includes a visit to the Ollague Volcano Viewpoint, with stunning views of Oruro and the surrounding volcanic terrain. Spending a night in a community family lodge adds authenticity and local flavor.

Final Days in the Bolivian Altiplano

The last days include early morning visits to fumaroles and Polques Hot Springs, offering a soothing end to days of adventure. Returning to La Paz by tourist bus completes the loop, giving you a chance to reflect on the trip’s diversity of landscapes and cultures.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re after a well-rounded experience of Peru and Bolivia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each step. The inclusion of guides, transport, and most entrance fees ensures you can focus on the sights and sounds, rather than logistics.

Travelers who enjoy seeing iconic sites like Machu Picchu and Uyuni, but also want to connect with local communities and learn about traditional practices, will find this itinerary satisfying. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, and the comfortable hotels balance quality with affordability.

However, be prepared for some long travel days, especially when crossing borders or traveling between major sites. The altitude hikes in Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake also require good fitness and acclimatization, so packing some patience and understanding your limits is wise.

Final Thoughts

This 16-day journey offers a taste of South America’s rich tapestry of history, landscapes, and culture. It’s a journey that balances guided insights with moments of personal discovery. The inclusion of authentic lodging and visits to local communities make it more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s an immersive experience.

Ideal for adventurous travelers eager for a comprehensive yet manageable itinerary, it provides excellent value by covering so many key sites with expert guidance. If you’re looking for a balanced trip that blends culture, nature, and history, this tour will get you close to the heart of Peru and Bolivia’s most stunning sights.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour price?
  Most major attractions, guides, transportation, hotel stays in 3-star accommodations, select meals, and entrance fees are included, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

• Are flights included?
  No, international and domestic flights are not included, so you’ll need to arrange those separately. The tour begins at the Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport in Cusco or Lima, depending on your arrival.

• How challenging are the high-altitude excursions?
  Activities like Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake take place at high altitudes, so travelers should be prepared for possible altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and taking it slow helps.

• Is the group size small?
  Yes, the tour is limited to 10 participants, fostering a more personal and flexible experience.

• Can I customize the itinerary?
  Since it’s a guided tour with set activities, customization options are limited. However, you can enjoy some free time and optional activities during the trip.

• Are meals included?
  Most included meals are listed in the itinerary, but some meals not mentioned are extra. It’s wise to carry cash for additional snacks or dining out.

• Is this tour suitable for families?
  While not explicitly designed for children, the itinerary is physically active and involves long travel days, so it’s best suited for active, independent travelers or older teens comfortable with altitude and travel.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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