The Ultimate Contrast: Coastal Mysteries & Andean Majesty
Peru is a land of dramatic geographic contrasts, and this comprehensive 10-day expedition is meticulously designed to showcase its two most captivating faces: the enigmatic arid coast and the towering peaks of the Incan Empire. With every logistical detail expertly managed—including all domestic flights, private transfers, and premium accommodations—you are free to simply immerse yourself in the wonders of antiquity.
Your journey begins in the historic "City of Kings," Lima, exploring its colonial heart and bohemian coastal cliffs. We then venture south into the desert to navigate the wildlife-rich waters of the Ballestas Islands and take to the skies for a breathtaking scenic flight over the world-famous, mysterious Nazca Lines. Transitioning seamlessly from sea level to the highlands, a short domestic flight brings you to Cusco. Here, you will spend five glorious days delving deep into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, marveling at the agricultural terraces of Pisaq and Moray, learning from traditional weavers in Chinchero, and culminating with a panoramic train journey to the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. To crown your experience, you will partake in an exclusive Peruvian culinary masterclass, tasting the true essence of the Andes.
Package Highlights
Nazca Lines Scenic Flight
Board a light aircraft for a 1.5-hour flight over the desert to witness the massive, enigmatic geoglyphs of the Nazca and Palpa cultures.
Ballestas Islands Wildlife
Navigate the Pacific Ocean on a guided boat tour to observe playful sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and thousands of marine birds in their natural habitat.
The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Explore the intricate ruins of Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero before ascending to the legendary "Lost City of the Incas" via panoramic train.
Andean Gastronomy
Source fresh native ingredients at the vibrant San Pedro market in Cusco and master iconic Peruvian dishes in a private cooking class with a professional chef.
Detailed Itinerary
From Desert to Cloud Forest
Maximum Altitude: 3,350 m / 10,991 ft (Cusco)
DAY 1: Welcome to Peru - Lima City of Kings
Arrival in Lima
Welcome to Peru! Upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, your private transport will be waiting to provide a warm and comfortable welcome. We will assist you with your luggage and transfer you directly to your previously selected premium hotel to rest and recharge for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2: Lima & Its Authentic Local Districts
Colonial Heritage & Main Square
Early in the morning, embark on a private tour showcasing the best of colonial and modern Lima. We will walk from San Martín Plaza through the historic pedestrian zone of Jirón de la Union—constructed in 1535—until we reach the stunning central plaza, surrounded by majestic palaces where your guide will introduce you to the history of the Peruvian capital.
Bohemian Barranco & Chorrillos
Leaving the colonial center, we dive into the authentic local atmosphere of Chorrillos, a district famous for its traditional fishermen. Finally, we will stroll through Barranco, Lima's bohemian district, uniquely perched on impressive cliffs dominating the Pacific Ocean. Return to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 3: Nazca Lines Flight & Huacachina Oasis
Flight Over the Enigmatic Geoglyphs
Early morning, your private transfer will guide you south along the coastal desert highway to Ica. Upon arrival around noon, you will board a light aircraft for a thrilling 1.5-hour flight over the marvelous Nazca and Palpa Lines. These gigantic geoglyphs (400 - 650 AD) remain one of archaeology's greatest mysteries. From the air, you will clearly witness fascinating figures such as the monkey, hummingbird, condor, and the mysterious astronaut.
The Desert Oasis of Huacachina
After your flight, we will visit the Huacachina Oasis, a breathtaking emerald lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. For adventure lovers, this is the perfect opportunity to try sandboarding or take a thrilling dune buggy ride (optional add-ons). After an exciting day in the desert, you will be taken to your hotel in Ica or Paracas.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 4: Ballestas Islands Wildlife & Return to Lima
The "Galapagos of Peru"
In the morning, we head to the port of Chaco in Paracas for an extraordinary boat expedition to the Ballestas Islands. On the way, you will spot the "Candelabro," a gigantic, mysterious geoglyph carved into a coastal hill. Navigating close to the rocky islands, you will observe thousands of marine birds, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, and loud, playful colonies of sea lions playing in the surf. Following a delicious ocean-side lunch, we will begin our return journey to Lima.
Included Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5: Flight to Cusco, The Imperial City
Arrival in the Incan Capital
We will pick you up from your Lima hotel and transfer you to the airport for your included domestic flight to Cusco. Upon landing in the "navel of the world," your private guide will welcome you and escort you to your premium hotel. We begin our city exploration in San Blas, the oldest neighborhood known for its artisans, and visit the famous 12-Angled Stone.
Qoricancha & Megalithic Ruins
We will enter the majestic Cusco Cathedral and the awe-inspiring Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the most revered temple of the Inca Empire. After visiting the vibrant San Pedro market and enjoying an excellent local lunch, we will head to the city limits to explore the massive megalithic fortress of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6: The Sacred Valley & Pisaq's Jewel
Pisaq Market & Andean Communities
After breakfast, we descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, greeted by the Vilcanota River and imposing mountaintops. We arrive at the colonial town of Pisaq to explore its narrow stone streets and traditional market. You will then visit a beautiful native community where local hosts will demonstrate their manual textile manufacturing processes and teach you about the incredible variety of native Andean potatoes.
Pisaq Ruins & Inkariy Museum
After tasting local dishes cultivated from the earth, you will explore the archaeological jewel of Pisaq, renowned for its massive stepped terraces built on the steep Andean slopes. Later, we visit the Inkariy Museum, an immersive exhibition showcasing the pre-Hispanic cultures that shaped Peru (Chavin, Paracas, Mochica, Nazca, Inca). Relax for the night at one of the valley's finest hotels.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 7: Chinchero, Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo
Chinchero Palace & Moray Laboratory
Your private tour continues to the Archaeological Park of Chinchero, former palace of Inca Tupac Yupanqui. You will see ancient walls, beautiful terraces, and a renowned textile center. Afterwards, we venture to Moray, an impressive agricultural experimental site featuring deep, circular stepped terraces that created distinct microclimates for crop testing.
Maras Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo
Next, we visit the stunning Maras Salt Mines, consisting of thousands of shimmering white salt wells harvested since pre-Incan times. To finish the day, we will take you to the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo, where you will spend the night surrounded by magnificent ancient stone architecture.
Included Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8: The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Scenic Train & The Citadel
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure! Board the scenic train in Ollantaytambo for a beautiful 1.5-hour journey into the cloud forest. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, your private guide will escort you via the dedicated shuttle bus up the mountain to the gates of Machu Picchu, "The Lost City of the Incas."
Guided Exploration & Free Afternoon
During your comprehensive private tour, you will learn the history of the citadel, visiting the Sun and Condor temples, aqueducts, and sacred terraces. You will then have time to explore short trails, such as the path to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the secret Inca Bridge. We will return to Aguas Calientes via bus, where you can relax in the hot springs and enjoy a premier hotel stay.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 9: Return to Cusco & Culinary Masterclass
Train Return & Andean Cooking
Early in the morning, you will board the return train to Ollantaytambo, where your driver will meet you to ascend back to the imperial city of Cusco. In the afternoon, dive into Peru's world-renowned gastronomy with a private cooking class led by a professional Peruvian chef. You will learn to prepare iconic Andean dishes, enjoying an appetizer, main dish, dessert, and of course, a celebratory Pisco Sour toast!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (Prepared during class)
DAY 10: Departure from the Andes
Farewell to Peru
Enjoy your final breakfast in the Andes. At the coordinated time, your private driver will transfer you to the Cusco airport to board your included domestic flight back to Lima. You will arrive in Lima in perfect time to connect with your international flight homeward bound. We hope you leave with magnificent memories of Peru!
Included Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions & Prices
What's Included
- Round-trip domestic flights (Lima - Cusco - Lima).
- Flight over the Nazca Lines (1.5-hour scenic flight from Ica).
- Airport pick-ups and all ground transfers (Lima, Ica, Cusco).
- 9 Nights premium hotel accommodation based on selected category.
- Shared boat expedition to the Ballestas Islands.
- Round-trip scenic train tickets to Machu Picchu.
- Round-trip Consettur bus tickets (Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu citadel).
- Professional, English-speaking private guides for all excursions.
- All entrance tickets to archaeological sites and museums (Machu Picchu, Inkariy, etc.).
- Exclusive Peruvian Culinary Masterclass in Cusco.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
Not Included
- International flights to and from Peru.
- Optional Huacachina Dune Buggy or Sandboarding activities.
- Permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climbs.
- Meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Tips For guides, drivers Etc (voluntary)
Essential Recommendations
- Machu Picchu Circuits & Availability: To secure the most complete circuits, booking months in advance is strictly required. For last-minute bookings, the Ministry of Culture releases 1,000 tickets daily for in-person purchase in Aguas Calientes for the following day. Your private guide will personally assist you in securing these tickets upon arrival.
- Nazca Flight Motion: The light aircraft makes sharp banks and turns so passengers on both sides can view the geoglyphs. If you are prone to motion sickness, we highly recommend taking medication prior to the flight and eating only a very light breakfast.
- Train Luggage Limits: The train to Machu Picchu has a strict luggage limit (1 small backpack/bag per person). Your main luggage will be securely transferred and stored at your hotel in Cusco.