Exploring the heart of the Andes on this 13-day tour offers a fantastic blend of history, nature, and authentic local experiences. Starting in the vibrant city of Cusco, you’ll journey through ancient Inca sites, scenic valleys, and towering mountains, before crossing into Bolivia to witness the surreal landscapes of Salar de Uyuni. The package includes visits to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and the unique floating islands of Uros and Amantani, culminating with the striking salt flats of Bolivia.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is the balance it strikes between guided sightseeing and free time — giving you the chance to absorb each site without feeling rushed. The professional local guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making history come alive, while the included transport allows you to relax and focus on the scenery.

One potential consideration: the itinerary involves some long travel days (notably the bus from Uyuni to La Paz), which can be tiring but also part of the adventure. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of culture, breathtaking landscapes, and are comfortable with some early starts and extended bus rides.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers seeking a comprehensive experience of both Peru and Bolivia’s highlights, especially those eager to explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu and the Salar de Uyuni while enjoying authentic local interactions.

Key Points

Cultural immersion: Visit iconic Inca sites and stay with local families in Amantani for authentic connections.
Diverse landscapes: From the Sacred Valley’s lush terraces to the otherworldly salt flats, the tour offers incredible scenery.
Expert guides: Bilingual guides ensure you understand the history and significance of each site.
Comfort and convenience: Included transportation, tickets, and some meals streamline the experience.
Long travel days: Expect some extended bus trips, especially in Bolivia, which are part of the adventure.
Value for price: At $1,210, the tour delivers a lot of sights and experiences for the cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 13-Day Journey: From Cusco to Uyuni

Planning more time in Urubamba? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Starting in Cusco: An Introduction to the Incas

Arriving in Cusco, the tour begins with a warm welcome and a comprehensive afternoon tour of key Inca sites — Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. These ruins aren’t just photo ops; they are physical links to Incan engineering mastery. Our guide explained how these structures were used, giving us a tangible sense of history that words alone can’t convey.

What stood out: We loved the way the guide brought the sites to life with stories about Incan rituals and architecture. The walking pace was comfortable, and the sites are close enough to explore on foot, making it easy to soak up the atmosphere.

Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu: A Classic Must-See

The next day takes us to the Sacred Valley, stopping at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. We appreciated the buffet lunch in Urubamba, which was a great way to recharge before the afternoon train ride. Traveling on the expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu town adds a scenic touch to the journey, and the train’s comfortable cars make the roughly 1.5-hour trip enjoyable.

The highlight, of course, is the guided tour of Machu Picchu. The site’s grandeur is undeniable, and our guide shared insights about the purpose of the structures and the engineering behind the terraced mountainsides. We loved the opportunity to wander freely after the guided portion, soaking in the views and atmosphere.

Tip: The included lunch in Machu Picchu town was simple but sufficient, allowing time for some personal exploration or photos. Returning to Cusco by train in the evening makes for a long but scenic day.

Scenic Adventures: Maras, Moray, and Salineras

On day four, we explored Maras, Moray, and the Salineras salt mines. These sites are less crowded but equally fascinating. Salineras, with its thousands of salt evaporation ponds, provides a surreal landscape that makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Our guide explained how the salt is harvested, adding context to the striking visuals.

What we loved: The clear explanations from our guide and the opportunity to walk among the salt pools. It’s a quick trip but leaves a lasting impression.

More Great Tours Nearby

High-Altitude Hikes: Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain

The next two days involve early starts for Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain — both incredible hikes in high-altitude environments. The Humantay Lagoon hike took about two hours, offering stunning views of a turquoise mountain lake nestled among towering peaks. The Rainbow Mountain trek was shorter but equally breathtaking, with vibrant mineral stripes decorating the mountain.

Practical note: The early mornings mean bundling up, as temperatures are cold, especially at dawn. The effort is rewarded with views that are truly unforgettable. We loved the guides’ safety tips and encouragement along the way.

While you're exploring Urubamba, here are other experiences we've looked into

Transitioning to Bolivia: Uros, Amantani, and Taquile Islands

Traveling from Cusco to Puno, we crossed into Bolivia’s realm at Lake Titicaca. The boat trips to the floating Uros Islands and Amantani were highlights. Staying overnight with a local family on Amantani provided authentic insight into island life, with a warm lunch and a chance to participate in local traditions.

The next day, we visited Taquile Island, enjoying a traditional breakfast with our host family before exploring this artisan-rich island. Ending the day with a meal overlooking Lake Titicaca was a memorable way to connect with the local culture.

Tip: The boat rides are smooth, but the weather can change quickly. Dressing in layers is advised.

Crossing into Bolivia: From Puno to Uyuni

The long bus journey from Puno to La Paz, and subsequently to Uyuni, is part of the adventure. We appreciated the comfortable sleeping bus, which made the 10-hour trip more manageable. Once in Uyuni, we started exploring the Salt Flats area.

The Salt Flats and Beyond

The Salt Cemetery and Salt Hotel offer surreal photo opportunities amid rusted trains and white salt plains. The next morning, we visited Laguna Chiarkota, Laguna Hedionda, and Laguna Colorada, each with distinct colors and wildlife. Spending a night in a salt hotel was a quirky highlight, with shared bathrooms and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Our journey continued to Fumarolas and Termas de Polques, where sulfurous gases and hot springs provided a natural spa experience. The day ended with a return trip to La Paz, completing a full circuit of landscapes and cultures.

Practicalities and Value

Throughout the tour, transportation was reliable and well-organized, with buses, trains, and 4x4s handling the varied terrain. The group size was limited to 15, allowing for personalized attention and easier camaraderie among travelers. The inclusions of most meals, tickets, and guides mean you can focus on enjoying the sights rather than worrying about logistics.

The price of $1,210 per person provides good value considering the extensive itinerary, expert guides, and all transportation. It’s an active tour, so be prepared for some early mornings, long travel days, and physical activity, especially hikes at high altitude.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers with a sense of curiosity and a desire to see both iconic sites and off-the-beaten-path gems. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with some physical activity and long days on buses. Cultural enthusiasts will love the home stays and local interactions, while scenery lovers will be blown away by the variety from lush valleys to salt flats. Budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive experience without sacrificing authenticity will find this tour particularly appealing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers who don’t like early mornings?
Some days start very early, especially for hikes like Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain. If early mornings aren’t your favorite, be prepared for some fatigue, but the views are worth it.

How comfortable are the transportation options?
Transportation includes tourist buses, trains, and 4×4 vehicles, generally comfortable and reliable. The long bus trips, especially the Uyuni to La Paz route, are a key part of the experience but can be tiring.

Are meals included?
Yes, most meals such as breakfasts, lunches, and some dinners are included, with special experiences like meals with local families adding a memorable touch.

Can I expect guided tours at each site?
Absolutely. Guides are knowledgeable and bilingual, helping you understand the significance of each location and ensuring you don’t miss key details.

Is the tour physically demanding?
There’s some walking, hiking, and altitude to consider. The hikes at Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain require moderate effort, but they are manageable with proper acclimatization.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a mix of hotels in Cusco and Puno, a salt hotel in Uyuni, and family stays on Amantani. Accommodations are shared and basic but comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group size and organized logistics make it friendly for solo travelers looking for a guided adventure.

What should I pack?
Layers are essential — mornings and high-altitude areas can be cold, while daytime might warm up. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is quite fixed to fit all highlights, but guides are experienced and accommodating within the planned timeline.

This 13-day journey offers an immersive, well-rounded experience of the Andes, balancing history, culture, and landscapes in a way that’s engaging yet practical. Whether you’re marveling at the engineering of Machu Picchu, wandering among salt flats, or sharing stories with local families, this tour promises authentic moments along with unforgettable scenery. It’s an excellent choice for those ready to embrace an adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural discovery.