Tour Peru – Express Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Paracas & More

Sample Peru Travel Itinerary

TOUR PERU!

Express Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Arequipa, Paracas & More

14 Days | 13 Nights

Let’s customize this tour!

Sample Peru Travel Itinerary

Lima to Arequipa and the Colca Canyon for hot springs and condors, then Cusco and Sacred Valley of the Incas. Hike the express Inca Trail to Machu Picchu then explore the South Coast. Toast the sunset on the highest dunes on the planet, visit exclusive properties and a traditional community in the Sacred Valley, meet charming local people and so much more.

Tour Highlights

  • Arrive to Machu Picchu via a Special Day Hike on the Classic Inca Trail – no camping necessary
  • Visit Cusco, the capital and center of the Inca Empire and its surrounding areas
  • Experience the unique south coast of Peru where the desert meets the ocean
  • Explore Arequipa – the White City, and discover the delights of the Colca Canyon

Travel Itinerary Highlights

Day 1 – Arrival Lima

Welcome to Lima – An Ancient Summit representative will welcome you and privately transport you to your hotel. The location of your hotel will be decided based on your arrival time.

 Day 2 – Lima to Arequipa – The White City

Morning flight to Arequipa to begin your private tour of the White City. Visit the “Andean Sanctuary Museum” where the Mummy known as Juanita lives. Also visit the famous monastery – a “City within a City”. Your evening is free to explore.

Day 3 – Arequipa to Colca Canyon

An early morning start for the drive into the Colca Canyon.  After check-in at your Lodge, enjoy the lodge’s private hot springs.

Day 4 – Colca Canyon to Arequipa

Another early departure towards Cross of the Condor to view their flight over the canyon. We also visit local villages of the Colca Valley and learn about the villagers´ traditions and customs. Local traditional dress is exquisite and unique.

Day 5 – Arequipa to Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Short flight to Cusco. Meet your personal team and travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas at an easy pace for acclimating but with special stops along the way.  Delicious home cooked lunch awaits at an exclusive private home of Nina’s dear friends.

Day 6 – Sacred Valley  Tours the Anceint Summit Way

A choice of  activities including but not limited to kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding at a glacier fed lake or cycling through the majestic Valley followed by a gourmet picnic lunch. All our itineraries are customized especially for you. After lunch, visit an authentic village whose inhabitants still practice their traditional lifestyle

 Day 7 – More of the Magical Sacred Valley

Enjoy a fantastic and off the beaten path working ranch belonging to another of Nina’s dear friends. Options for horseback riding, and your opportunity to visit Moray, Maras and the incredible Incan salt mining terraces. After lunch back at the ranch, learn to hand-craft Peruvian chocolate the traditional way.

 Day 8 – Express Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Experience awe-inspiring vistas, colorful orchids and hidden archaeological sites along the one day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu arriving the same way the Incas did.

 Day 9  Exploring Machu Picchu

A day to absorb all the wonder of Machu Picchu with your private guide with the option to climb Huayna Picchu or other points of interest inside the Citadel.  Return by train to the Sacred Valley.

 Day 10 – Sacred Valley to Cusco

Explore Cusco as you drive from the Sacred Valley with stops along the way and continued tours  in the amazing City Center.

 Day 11 – Cusco to Lima to Paracas

Fly from Cusco to Lima and continue by private vehicle south to the Paracas region.

 Day 12 – Touring Paracas

Tour the Ballestas Islands known as “Peru’s mini Galapagos” and visit the Paracas National Reserve. Dune Buggy adventures followed by a sunset toast on the highest sand dunes on the planet

 Day 13 – Paracas to Lima

Drive back to Lima and begin exploring the “City of Kings”. Get to know  modern and colonial Lima as well as visits to a famous musuem

 Day 14  Explore Lima

More Lima tours designed epecially for you depending on your interests and international departure time.

Detailed Peru Travel Itinerary

From Lima, fly to Arequipa, the White City. After exploring, drive a majestic route past live volcanos and herds of wild alpaca into the Colca Canyon to observe the remarkable Andean condor. Return to Arequipa and fly to Cusco to begin the journey of exploration through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and on to Machu Picchu.  Return to Lima to follow the coast south to explore Paracas and surrounds.

Day 1 – Arrival Lima

A warm welcome from an Ancient Summit Team Member and private transport to your hotel where we will assist with the check-in process. What we do this afternoon will depend on your flight arrival time and your interests. We tailor all the details of this luxury trip especially for you. WELCOME TO PERU!

Overnight: LIMA

Day 2 – Lima to Arequipa – The White City

We will be back to help you checked in for your flight to Arequipa. Upon arrival in Arequipa we will meet and escort you to your hotel. After a brief rest, we will begin your private tour of the White City. Visit the “Andean Sanctuary Museum” where the Mummy known as Juanita lives. Juanita is thought to be approximately 12 years old. She endured in a frozen condition for over 500 years at the top of the snow-capped volcano of Ampato. You also visit the Convent of Santa Catalina. Inside is a rich collection of a religious artworks and architecture from the colonial era, as well as sites of historic note, such as The Gate, Los Naranjos cloister, the Patio of Silence, the bell tower, the church itself, and the distinctive streets of this “City within a City”. Your evening is free to explore on your own.

Overnight: AREQUIPA

Day 3 – Arequipa to Colca Canyon

We leave early this morning for our drive to the Colca Canyon stopping along the way to enjoy spectacular scenery.  Pass smoking volcanos as well as the strong possibility to  stumble upon   members of the camelid family – wild llamas, alpacas and even the shy vicuña whose wool is coveted and considered to be the rarest, finest fiber in the world!  We arrive to the Colca Valley in the afternoon and continue the drive to your Lodge. After check-in, you can enjoy the lodge’s private hot springs.

Overnight: COLCA

Day 4 – Colca Canyon to Arequipa

An early departure to the Cross of the Condor to view these magnificent birds in flight over the canyon. Condors are the largest flying land bird in the Western Hemisphere with a wingspan that can reach over 9 ½ feet.  We also visit local villages of the Colca Valley and learn about the villagers´ traditions and customs. Local dress is uniquely composed of traditional skirts, colorful jackets and hats bordered with flowers, animals and other designs from nature. Return to Arequipa late this afternoon to enjoy exploring on your own and trying one of the City’s fine eateries.

Overnight: AREQUIPA

Day 5 – Arequipa to Cusco to Sacred Valley

We will be back to help get you checked in for your morning flight to Cusco.  Enjoy the view from far above the Andes. Upon arrival, meet your personal team and begin your picturesque journey towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the drive, we can stop at the Pisaq Market, a traditional Andean market (now fairly touristy) but still interesting), as well as a visit to the ancient site. A specially prepared lunch awaits you at the home of Nina’s dear friend. Wonderful home cooking and seasonal ingredients come from their own organic garden. This home is not open to the public and you will enjoy the authenticity as well as the warmth of being welcomed as Nina’s special guest. We have a number of options available for this afternoon depending on your interests.

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 6 – Exploring the Sacred Valley

Another scenic drive through the Sacred Valley brings us to the village of Ollantaytambo. This is one of the few places the Spaniards lost a battle during the conquest and could be the reason why they never found Machu Picchu! After exploring the site, continue driving through the Andes with breathtaking views to the town of Chinchero. Here, we take a detour off the beaten path and stop for a special gourmet picnic style lunch. Next, we continue to an authentic village whose inhabitants still practice their traditional lifestyle. Not a usual tourist stop but something we offer our visitors as here we are dedicated to working closely for sustainability and education of the children. Our “Moms” welcome you for a demonstration of their ancient weaving tradition and you can participate if the spirit moves you. Nina’s son, Julio, runs the after school-learning center and is very committed to the children. Nina was involved in a Documentary  that was filmed here. The day ends back at  our lovely Sacred Valley hotel.

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 7 – Sacred Valley – Horse Trek in the Andes

Another unique and authentic day with a visit to a special working ranch belonging to another of Nina’s dear friends. Experience the ride on the smoothly gaited Peruvian Caballo de Paso (Peru’s National Horse), to visit the ancient sites of Moray, Maras and the incredible Incan salt terraces known as the Salineras. After a short orientation and accompanied by your chalan1, we set off on rural paths, passing small villages. Traveling on your wonderful horse, we are transported into a rural lifestyle, meeting and greeting villagers in their everyday lives, where we respectfully interact in their cultural space and get a glimpse of their daily rhythms. Using paths that have existed since before the time of the Inca’s, you will enjoy truly impressive views. Once back at the ranch, a delicious farm to table lunch is served. After lunch, handcraft your own chocolate and/or coffee the traditional Andean way. We call this “from bean to delicious”.  These beans come from the ranch’s own organic plantations in the jungle.  Spending the day here is a true highlight of your time in the heavenly Sacred Valley. This is an exclusive private property that only privileged guests have access to. This lovely day ends back at your hotel for a good night’s rest in preparation for the long-anticipated adventure tomorrow. NOTE: If you do not want to ride horses, we have other options for this visit depending on your needs.

1 Originally, the title given to a Peruvian Paso horse rider. Typically, the best horse rider in a Peruvian town or village. A Chalan must earn this title. It is a title of respect

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 8 – To Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail!

Very early this morning, we board the train for the panoramic journey to Km 104, where your Inca Trail trek begins. Crossing the Vilcanota River via a foot bridge we arrive at Chachabamba, the first Inca site on the trek. The path continues into a forest offering some welcomed shade and we arrive at  a beautiful waterfall before reaching the next  Inca site –  Wiñay Wayna (‘Forever Young’).  Our journey continues to the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and your first inspiring view of our Wonder of the World!

Overnight: AGUAS CALIENTES OR SANCTUARY LODGE

Day 9 – Explore Machu Picchu

After breakfast, begin your privately guided tour of the Lost City along with options to climb either Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu. Today you learn about this most amazing architecture and the mysterious temples to better understand the sophisticated ideas of this highly advanced culture. Lunch is served at the Sanctuary Lodge. Later this afternoon we board the train and return to the Sacred Valley where your now familiar driver will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel.  Free evening to relax and reminisce about the wonders.

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 10 – Sacred Valley to Cusco

With exceptional memories and an appreciation of why the Incas called it the Sacred Valley, it is time to say good-bye for now to the Sacred Valley and begin the drive towards Cusco.

We make stops along the way depending on what personally inspires you. This afternoon is your private tour of the city of Cusco, famed for its blend of Spanish and Inca cultures and has long been the inspiration for many an artist and chef. Once the principal city of the Inca empire, and is now the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas.  Today we can visit the Koricancha Temple, a classic example of the fusion of Inca and Western cultures. Sacsayhuaman, as well as several other iconic archaeological sites can be visited if you wish. Your guide always has more ideas and ways of showing you this incredible city based on your interests. Your evening is free to relax or explore. Cusco is wonderful at night!

Overnight: CUSCO

Day 11 – Cusco to Lima to Paracas

After some early morning free time in Cusco, we say goodbye to the Andes and return to the airport for the flight to Lima. In Lima, your new personal Team welcomes you and now begin the drive down the South Coast to Paracas exploring along the way. Enjoy your luxurious hotel on the Pacific Ocean.

Overnight: PARACAS

Day 12 – Touring Paracas

Today we tour to the Ballestas Islands known as “Peru’s mini Galapagos”.  These islands have been eroded to form countless natural caves and arches, providing a home to millions of sea birds such as Flamingos, Pelicans and Humboldt Penguins, all able to feed in some of the richest fishing grounds in the Pacific. We will also visit the Paracas National Reserve, an important protected coastal-marine system in Peru and one of the most biologically productive marine areas in the world. You usually see very large groups of flamingos feeding on the shores. At the Interpretation Center you will learn about the ancient Paracas people who inhabited this area over two thousand years ago.  We see the famous Paracas deformed skulls, as well as examples of cranial trepanation. And as if this has not already been an amazingly special day we have planned a special late afternoon adventure.  Get ready to ride in our dune buggies on  some of the highest sand dunes in the world for a special sunset toast – our version of afternoon tea in the desert. Another great day to add to your Peruvian memories.

Overnight: PARACAS

Day 13 – Paracas to Lima

This morning, we begin the drive back to Lima. Once back in Lima and taking traffic into consideration, we will tour as much as possible of our City of Kings. Tours today and tomorrow can include modern and colonial Lima as well as visits to the Larco Herrera Museum and Huaca Pucllana a most amazing discovery right in the middle of Miraflores. We can also explore a very wonderful part of the City – Barranco, considered to be the city’s most romantic and bohemian; being the home and working place of many of Peru’s leading artists, musicians, designers and photographers. This is a great opportunity to sample some of Lima’s now world-famous cuisine for lunch, dinner or both. We love to share Nina’s favorites and can make reservations at the restaurants you select.

Overnight: LIMA

Day 14 – Lima

More Lima tours designed epecially for you depending on your interests and international departure time.

*We can arrange for a hotel room where you can freshen up and use as a base camp for the day.

Overview

Sample Peru Travel Itinerary

Lima to Arequipa and the Colca Canyon for hot springs and condors, then Cusco and Sacred Valley of the Incas. Hike the express Inca Trail to Machu Picchu then explore the South Coast. Toast the sunset on the highest dunes on the planet, visit exclusive properties and a traditional community in the Sacred Valley, meet charming local people and so much more.

Tour Highlights

  • Arrive to Machu Picchu via a Special Day Hike on the Classic Inca Trail – no camping necessary
  • Visit Cusco, the capital and center of the Inca Empire and its surrounding areas
  • Experience the unique south coast of Peru where the desert meets the ocean
  • Explore Arequipa – the White City, and discover the delights of the Colca Canyon
Daily Highlights

Travel Itinerary Highlights

Day 1 – Arrival Lima

Welcome to Lima – An Ancient Summit representative will welcome you and privately transport you to your hotel. The location of your hotel will be decided based on your arrival time.

 Day 2 – Lima to Arequipa – The White City

Morning flight to Arequipa to begin your private tour of the White City. Visit the “Andean Sanctuary Museum” where the Mummy known as Juanita lives. Also visit the famous monastery – a “City within a City”. Your evening is free to explore.

Day 3 – Arequipa to Colca Canyon

An early morning start for the drive into the Colca Canyon.  After check-in at your Lodge, enjoy the lodge’s private hot springs.

Day 4 – Colca Canyon to Arequipa

Another early departure towards Cross of the Condor to view their flight over the canyon. We also visit local villages of the Colca Valley and learn about the villagers´ traditions and customs. Local traditional dress is exquisite and unique.

Day 5 – Arequipa to Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas

Short flight to Cusco. Meet your personal team and travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas at an easy pace for acclimating but with special stops along the way.  Delicious home cooked lunch awaits at an exclusive private home of Nina’s dear friends.

Day 6 – Sacred Valley  Tours the Anceint Summit Way

A choice of  activities including but not limited to kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding at a glacier fed lake or cycling through the majestic Valley followed by a gourmet picnic lunch. All our itineraries are customized especially for you. After lunch, visit an authentic village whose inhabitants still practice their traditional lifestyle

 Day 7 – More of the Magical Sacred Valley

Enjoy a fantastic and off the beaten path working ranch belonging to another of Nina’s dear friends. Options for horseback riding, and your opportunity to visit Moray, Maras and the incredible Incan salt mining terraces. After lunch back at the ranch, learn to hand-craft Peruvian chocolate the traditional way.

 Day 8 – Express Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Experience awe-inspiring vistas, colorful orchids and hidden archaeological sites along the one day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu arriving the same way the Incas did.

 Day 9  Exploring Machu Picchu

A day to absorb all the wonder of Machu Picchu with your private guide with the option to climb Huayna Picchu or other points of interest inside the Citadel.  Return by train to the Sacred Valley.

 Day 10 – Sacred Valley to Cusco

Explore Cusco as you drive from the Sacred Valley with stops along the way and continued tours  in the amazing City Center.

 Day 11 – Cusco to Lima to Paracas

Fly from Cusco to Lima and continue by private vehicle south to the Paracas region.

 Day 12 – Touring Paracas

Tour the Ballestas Islands known as “Peru’s mini Galapagos” and visit the Paracas National Reserve. Dune Buggy adventures followed by a sunset toast on the highest sand dunes on the planet

 Day 13 – Paracas to Lima

Drive back to Lima and begin exploring the “City of Kings”. Get to know  modern and colonial Lima as well as visits to a famous musuem

 Day 14  Explore Lima

More Lima tours designed epecially for you depending on your interests and international departure time.

Detailed Itinerary

Detailed Peru Travel Itinerary

From Lima, fly to Arequipa, the White City. After exploring, drive a majestic route past live volcanos and herds of wild alpaca into the Colca Canyon to observe the remarkable Andean condor. Return to Arequipa and fly to Cusco to begin the journey of exploration through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and on to Machu Picchu.  Return to Lima to follow the coast south to explore Paracas and surrounds.

Day 1 – Arrival Lima

A warm welcome from an Ancient Summit Team Member and private transport to your hotel where we will assist with the check-in process. What we do this afternoon will depend on your flight arrival time and your interests. We tailor all the details of this luxury trip especially for you. WELCOME TO PERU!

Overnight: LIMA

Day 2 – Lima to Arequipa – The White City

We will be back to help you checked in for your flight to Arequipa. Upon arrival in Arequipa we will meet and escort you to your hotel. After a brief rest, we will begin your private tour of the White City. Visit the “Andean Sanctuary Museum” where the Mummy known as Juanita lives. Juanita is thought to be approximately 12 years old. She endured in a frozen condition for over 500 years at the top of the snow-capped volcano of Ampato. You also visit the Convent of Santa Catalina. Inside is a rich collection of a religious artworks and architecture from the colonial era, as well as sites of historic note, such as The Gate, Los Naranjos cloister, the Patio of Silence, the bell tower, the church itself, and the distinctive streets of this “City within a City”. Your evening is free to explore on your own.

Overnight: AREQUIPA

Day 3 – Arequipa to Colca Canyon

We leave early this morning for our drive to the Colca Canyon stopping along the way to enjoy spectacular scenery.  Pass smoking volcanos as well as the strong possibility to  stumble upon   members of the camelid family – wild llamas, alpacas and even the shy vicuña whose wool is coveted and considered to be the rarest, finest fiber in the world!  We arrive to the Colca Valley in the afternoon and continue the drive to your Lodge. After check-in, you can enjoy the lodge’s private hot springs.

Overnight: COLCA

Day 4 – Colca Canyon to Arequipa

An early departure to the Cross of the Condor to view these magnificent birds in flight over the canyon. Condors are the largest flying land bird in the Western Hemisphere with a wingspan that can reach over 9 ½ feet.  We also visit local villages of the Colca Valley and learn about the villagers´ traditions and customs. Local dress is uniquely composed of traditional skirts, colorful jackets and hats bordered with flowers, animals and other designs from nature. Return to Arequipa late this afternoon to enjoy exploring on your own and trying one of the City’s fine eateries.

Overnight: AREQUIPA

Day 5 – Arequipa to Cusco to Sacred Valley

We will be back to help get you checked in for your morning flight to Cusco.  Enjoy the view from far above the Andes. Upon arrival, meet your personal team and begin your picturesque journey towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. On the drive, we can stop at the Pisaq Market, a traditional Andean market (now fairly touristy) but still interesting), as well as a visit to the ancient site. A specially prepared lunch awaits you at the home of Nina’s dear friend. Wonderful home cooking and seasonal ingredients come from their own organic garden. This home is not open to the public and you will enjoy the authenticity as well as the warmth of being welcomed as Nina’s special guest. We have a number of options available for this afternoon depending on your interests.

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 6 – Exploring the Sacred Valley

Another scenic drive through the Sacred Valley brings us to the village of Ollantaytambo. This is one of the few places the Spaniards lost a battle during the conquest and could be the reason why they never found Machu Picchu! After exploring the site, continue driving through the Andes with breathtaking views to the town of Chinchero. Here, we take a detour off the beaten path and stop for a special gourmet picnic style lunch. Next, we continue to an authentic village whose inhabitants still practice their traditional lifestyle. Not a usual tourist stop but something we offer our visitors as here we are dedicated to working closely for sustainability and education of the children. Our “Moms” welcome you for a demonstration of their ancient weaving tradition and you can participate if the spirit moves you. Nina’s son, Julio, runs the after school-learning center and is very committed to the children. Nina was involved in a Documentary  that was filmed here. The day ends back at  our lovely Sacred Valley hotel.

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 7 – Sacred Valley – Horse Trek in the Andes

Another unique and authentic day with a visit to a special working ranch belonging to another of Nina’s dear friends. Experience the ride on the smoothly gaited Peruvian Caballo de Paso (Peru’s National Horse), to visit the ancient sites of Moray, Maras and the incredible Incan salt terraces known as the Salineras. After a short orientation and accompanied by your chalan1, we set off on rural paths, passing small villages. Traveling on your wonderful horse, we are transported into a rural lifestyle, meeting and greeting villagers in their everyday lives, where we respectfully interact in their cultural space and get a glimpse of their daily rhythms. Using paths that have existed since before the time of the Inca’s, you will enjoy truly impressive views. Once back at the ranch, a delicious farm to table lunch is served. After lunch, handcraft your own chocolate and/or coffee the traditional Andean way. We call this “from bean to delicious”.  These beans come from the ranch’s own organic plantations in the jungle.  Spending the day here is a true highlight of your time in the heavenly Sacred Valley. This is an exclusive private property that only privileged guests have access to. This lovely day ends back at your hotel for a good night’s rest in preparation for the long-anticipated adventure tomorrow. NOTE: If you do not want to ride horses, we have other options for this visit depending on your needs.

1 Originally, the title given to a Peruvian Paso horse rider. Typically, the best horse rider in a Peruvian town or village. A Chalan must earn this title. It is a title of respect

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 8 – To Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail!

Very early this morning, we board the train for the panoramic journey to Km 104, where your Inca Trail trek begins. Crossing the Vilcanota River via a foot bridge we arrive at Chachabamba, the first Inca site on the trek. The path continues into a forest offering some welcomed shade and we arrive at  a beautiful waterfall before reaching the next  Inca site –  Wiñay Wayna (‘Forever Young’).  Our journey continues to the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and your first inspiring view of our Wonder of the World!

Overnight: AGUAS CALIENTES OR SANCTUARY LODGE

Day 9 – Explore Machu Picchu

After breakfast, begin your privately guided tour of the Lost City along with options to climb either Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu. Today you learn about this most amazing architecture and the mysterious temples to better understand the sophisticated ideas of this highly advanced culture. Lunch is served at the Sanctuary Lodge. Later this afternoon we board the train and return to the Sacred Valley where your now familiar driver will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel.  Free evening to relax and reminisce about the wonders.

Overnight: SACRED VALLEY

Day 10 – Sacred Valley to Cusco

With exceptional memories and an appreciation of why the Incas called it the Sacred Valley, it is time to say good-bye for now to the Sacred Valley and begin the drive towards Cusco.

We make stops along the way depending on what personally inspires you. This afternoon is your private tour of the city of Cusco, famed for its blend of Spanish and Inca cultures and has long been the inspiration for many an artist and chef. Once the principal city of the Inca empire, and is now the undisputed archaeological capital of the Americas.  Today we can visit the Koricancha Temple, a classic example of the fusion of Inca and Western cultures. Sacsayhuaman, as well as several other iconic archaeological sites can be visited if you wish. Your guide always has more ideas and ways of showing you this incredible city based on your interests. Your evening is free to relax or explore. Cusco is wonderful at night!

Overnight: CUSCO

Day 11 – Cusco to Lima to Paracas

After some early morning free time in Cusco, we say goodbye to the Andes and return to the airport for the flight to Lima. In Lima, your new personal Team welcomes you and now begin the drive down the South Coast to Paracas exploring along the way. Enjoy your luxurious hotel on the Pacific Ocean.

Overnight: PARACAS

Day 12 – Touring Paracas

Today we tour to the Ballestas Islands known as “Peru’s mini Galapagos”.  These islands have been eroded to form countless natural caves and arches, providing a home to millions of sea birds such as Flamingos, Pelicans and Humboldt Penguins, all able to feed in some of the richest fishing grounds in the Pacific. We will also visit the Paracas National Reserve, an important protected coastal-marine system in Peru and one of the most biologically productive marine areas in the world. You usually see very large groups of flamingos feeding on the shores. At the Interpretation Center you will learn about the ancient Paracas people who inhabited this area over two thousand years ago.  We see the famous Paracas deformed skulls, as well as examples of cranial trepanation. And as if this has not already been an amazingly special day we have planned a special late afternoon adventure.  Get ready to ride in our dune buggies on  some of the highest sand dunes in the world for a special sunset toast – our version of afternoon tea in the desert. Another great day to add to your Peruvian memories.

Overnight: PARACAS

Day 13 – Paracas to Lima

This morning, we begin the drive back to Lima. Once back in Lima and taking traffic into consideration, we will tour as much as possible of our City of Kings. Tours today and tomorrow can include modern and colonial Lima as well as visits to the Larco Herrera Museum and Huaca Pucllana a most amazing discovery right in the middle of Miraflores. We can also explore a very wonderful part of the City – Barranco, considered to be the city’s most romantic and bohemian; being the home and working place of many of Peru’s leading artists, musicians, designers and photographers. This is a great opportunity to sample some of Lima’s now world-famous cuisine for lunch, dinner or both. We love to share Nina’s favorites and can make reservations at the restaurants you select.

Overnight: LIMA

Day 14 – Lima

More Lima tours designed epecially for you depending on your interests and international departure time.

*We can arrange for a hotel room where you can freshen up and use as a base camp for the day.

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