Route South 12 days:Lima-Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco with hotel

Discover the Heart of Southern Peru on a 12-Day Guided Tour

If you’re craving an adventure through some of the most iconic and captivating regions of Peru, this 12-day tour offers a fantastic way to experience it all. Starting in Lima and ending in Cusco, you’ll visit highlights like the mysterious Nazca Lines, the stunning Colca Canyon, the floating Uros islands, and the legendary Machu Picchu. With a price of $1,499 per person, including accommodations, guided excursions, meals, and some unforgettable activities like sandboarding and tubing, this tour strikes a good balance between value and immersion.

What we love about this experience is how it combines diverse landscapes — from the coastal desert of Ica to the high-altitude peaks of the Andes — with authentic cultural encounters. Imagine tasting delicious local cuisine, exploring ancient sites, and even trying your hand at sandboarding in Huacachina. The tour’s structure also ensures you see the must-sees without feeling rushed, thanks to well-planned travel and hotel stays in strategic locations.

One potential consideration is the pace; with so many destinations packed into 12 days, some travelers might find it slightly busy, especially the early mornings and long travel days. But if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground and enjoy an organized itinerary, this tour suits those with a flexible schedule and a sense of adventure.

This tour is ideally suited for travelers who want a rundown of southern Peru with the convenience of guided logistics, culture, and authentic local experiences. It’s perfect for first-timers or those returning to Peru who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: From desert oases to highland valleys, the route covers a wide range of Peru’s landscapes.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes visits to local markets, thermal baths, and traditional dances.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuamán, and the Sacred Valley provide a deep dive into Inca history.
• Variety of Activities: Sandboarding, tubing, boat rides, and hiking keep the tour engaging and active.
• Good Value: For $1,499, the tour covers transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, meals, and accommodations.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy authentic Peruvian dishes, often at local eateries with spectacular views.

Comprehensive Review of the 12-Day South Peru Tour

Starting with Lima and Ica

Your journey begins in Lima with an airport pick-up and hotel stay, giving you time to acclimate and explore the Peruvian capital. Early the next morning, things get lively as you depart at 3 a.m. for Ica and Paracas. This is a long day, but it’s well worth it. The highlight here is the visit to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” where you can see sea lions, penguins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. The boat trip offers fantastic close-up views of wildlife and rugged coastline.

Next, you’ll visit a vineyard for a traditional lunch paired with local wines, which is a delightful way to experience Peruvian gastronomy. The afternoon includes a stop at the Huacachina oasis, renowned for its towering sand dunes. Here, you get to try sandboarding and tubular rides — two exhilarating ways to experience the desert landscape. Many reviews mention how fun and adrenaline-inducing sandboarding is, with one traveler noting, “It’s surprisingly easy to pick up, and the thrill of sliding down those dunes is unforgettable.” The return to Lima around 10 p.m. makes for a long day, but you’ll be filled with stories and stunning desert scenery.

Transition to Arequipa and Chivay

The next day involves a brief airport transfer and a city tour of Arequipa, known as the “White City” for its beautiful colonial buildings made from white volcanic stone. We loved the way the guide explained the city’s history and its vibrant local markets. The afternoon is free to explore or relax before heading to Chivay in the Colca Valley.

Early the following morning, you’ll start the trip into Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world. The scenery here is spectacular, with terraced fields and dramatic cliffs. The day includes a visit to the Cruz del Condor, where you’ll observe the majestic Andean condors soaring overhead — a breathtaking sight that many travelers rave about. You’ll also visit thermal baths in La Calera, perfect for soaking tired muscles after a morning of hiking and sightseeing.

In Chivay, you’ll enjoy a local dinner and dance show, offering a lively glimpse into traditional Peruvian culture. Many reviews highlight how entertaining and authentic this experience feels, and it’s a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.

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Puno and the Floating Islands

Traveling from Chivay to Puno, the tour continues with visits to the Uros floating islands on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. These islands, made entirely of reeds, provide a glimpse into the ingenious ways local communities live. Next, you’ll visit Amantani Island, staying overnight with local families. The experience of sharing a home and participating in traditional activities gives you a genuine connection to local life.

The following day, you’ll visit Taquile Island, renowned for its high-quality textiles and weaving traditions. Walking through the villages and markets allows you to see artisans at work, and the lunch here often features local specialties with stunning lake views. Many travelers enjoy these days for their authenticity and the chance to connect with locals, with one comment noting, “Staying in Amantani made me feel like I was part of the community, not just a tourist passing through.”

Cusco and the Sacred Valley

From Puno, the journey continues to Cusco, often called the archaeological capital of South America. This city’s charming streets, vibrant plazas, and historical sites make it a highlight. The city tour includes visits to Qoricancha, the Inca temple of the sun, and Sacsayhuamán, an impressive Inca fortress with enormous stone walls. The guide’s explanations help you grasp the significance of these sites.

A key part of the trip is the Sacred Valley, with stops at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba before catching the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. The train ride itself offers beautiful views of the Andean landscape and lush valleys.

The Magnificence of Machu Picchu

The pinnacle of the tour for many is the visit to Machu Picchu. The guided tour reveals the mysteries of this ancient citadel, with plenty of time to explore on your own. Many reviewers mention that the early morning bus ride and the guided walk help make the experience more meaningful. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, you return to Cusco, feeling like you’ve truly been immersed in Inca wonder.

The Stunning Rainbow Mountain

A unique addition is the visit to Vinicunca, known as the Seven Colors Mountain. The hike here takes around 2.5 hours, but the views are spectacular. The early start from the village of Tintinco is well worth it, as the vibrant hues of the mountain are unlike anything you’ve seen before. Many find this hike challenging but rewarding, and the colorful landscape makes for incredible photos.

Final Day and Departure

The tour wraps up with a transfer to Cusco’s airport or bus station, giving you time to reflect on your adventures. The tour’s structure ensures you see the highlights without rushing, but there is a fair amount of travel time between destinations.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included in the $1,499 price are accommodations in 2-star hotels, all transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, meals, and activities like tubing and sandboarding. The package also provides walking poles and oxygen assistance at high altitudes, which can be lifesavers for some travelers.

However, flight tickets and travel insurance are not included, so you’ll need to arrange those separately. Also, the tour operates as a private group, which offers a more personalized experience, but it may also mean a slightly higher cost than larger group tours.

Travel Pace and Long Days

A common point from reviews is the tour’s fast pace — some days involve early mornings, long bus rides, and a packed schedule. If you prefer leisurely travel or rest days, this might feel a little intense. On the upside, it maximizes your experience and ensures you cover all the highlights.

Authentic Food and Cultural Touches

One of the highlights many travelers mention is the delicious local cuisine served during the tour, often with spectacular views. The included meals are a great chance to sample Peruvian dishes, from ceviche to cuy (guinea pig), and enjoy the vibrant flavors of the region.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 12-day tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of southern Peru with the convenience of guided logistics. If you’re someone who enjoys a structured itinerary, appreciates culture, and doesn’t mind moving quickly, this trip suits you. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to Peru or those eager to tick off all the major sights in one go.

Travelers with a sense of adventure, an interest in history, and curiosity about local customs will find this tour rewarding. Just keep in mind the physical activities — the hikes, sandboarding, and boat rides — are part of the fun but require a reasonable level of fitness.

The Sum Up

This 12-day guided tour offers an excellent way to explore southern Peru’s most iconic sites while enjoying comfortable accommodations and authentic experiences. The combination of archaeological wonders, stunning landscapes, vibrant local culture, and delicious food makes it a well-rounded adventure. The itinerary’s balance between guided visits and free time allows you to immerse yourself without feeling overwhelmed.

If you’re looking for a well-organized trip that covers the highlights without the stress of planning logistics, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for those eager to learn, explore, and taste Peru’s diverse offerings in a compact but rewarding package.

For travelers who value cultural authenticity, scenic diversity, and a good mix of activities, this journey could be a highlight of your South American travels. Just be prepared for early mornings and some long travel days — but the unforgettable sights and experiences make it all worthwhile.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While the tour involves some walking and hikes, particularly on the hikes to Vinicunca and around Machu Picchu, the overall pace might be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s best to assess your comfort with uneven terrain and long days.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes meals, often featuring traditional Peruvian dishes that highlight local flavors and ingredients. Many travelers praise the quality and authenticity of the food.

Will I see Machu Picchu?
Absolutely. The itinerary is designed to include a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with enough time for personal exploration afterward.

What activities are included?
Activities like sandboarding, tubing, boat rides, and hikes are part of the experience, adding adventure and fun to the trip.

Do I need to arrange my own flights?
Yes, flights are not included, so you’ll need to book your own to Lima and from Cusco at the end of the tour.

Is this a private group tour?
Yes, it operates as a private group, which means a more personalized experience and flexibility compared to larger tour groups.

How much free time will I have?
While most days are scheduled with guided activities, some evenings and mornings are free, especially in Cusco and Puno, allowing you to explore or relax at your own pace.

Does the tour accommodate high-altitude concerns?
Oxygen assistance is provided, and the itinerary includes acclimatization time in Cusco and Puno to help mitigate altitude sickness.

What is the price worth?
Considering all included transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, accommodations, and meals, at $1,499 per person, this tour offers great value for a comprehensive Peruvian experience.

This detailed journey through southern Peru promises a well-rounded adventure filled with unforgettable visuals, cultural insights, and authentic flavors. It’s designed for travelers eager to see the highlights and experience the spirit of Peru in a manageable and enjoyable way.

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