Set out on a captivating 13-day journey through the enigmatic wonders of Peru, led by an Italian-speaking guide. Starting in the vibrant capital of Lima, this comprehensive tour immerses you in the country’s diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and rich cultural heritage. From the Ballestas Islands to the iconic Machu Picchu, each destination promises to ignite your sense of wonder. With private transfers, comfortable accommodations, and a taste of local cuisine, this itinerary is designed to offer an unforgettable experience. But what lies beyond the well-known highlights of this tour? Uncover the hidden gems that make Peru a truly mysterious and captivating destination.
Key Points
- 13-day Peru tour starting in Lima, led by an Italian-speaking guide, covering major highlights like Machu Picchu, Ballestas Islands, and Ica sand dunes.
- Private transfers for airport/bus journeys, shared bus transfers, and train ride to/from Machu Picchu included in the tour package.
- 12 nights of accommodation with 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners provided, allowing opportunities to sample local Peruvian cuisine.
- Machu Picchu visit limited to 4 hours with an authorized guide, and prohibited items include professional cameras and drones.
- The Juanita mummy exhibit is available only from May to December, with a replica displayed during the off-season.
Tour Overview
As per the article, this 13-day Peru tour, led by an Italian-speaking guide, commences from Lima.
The key activities include a guided tour of Lima, a visit to the Ballestas Islands, exploring the sand dunes of Ica by 4×4, and a guided tour of Arequipa.
The itinerary also features a stop at the La Cruz del Condor, a full-day boat excursion on Lake Titicaca, and visits to archaeological sites like Pukara, Temple of Raqchi, and the church of Andahuaylillas.
The tour culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu and a city tour of Cusco, along with its archaeological sites.
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Transportation and Transfers
Private transfers are provided to and from airports and bus stations throughout the tour.
Shared bus transfers are also included for the following journeys:
- Lima to Paracas and back to Lima
- Arequipa to Chivay
- Chivay to Puno
- Puno to Cusco
The tour also includes a train ride to and from Machu Picchu, as well as a shared bus transfer from Aguas Calientes to the site.
Domestic and international flights are included as part of the tour package.
Accommodation and Meals
The tour includes 12 nights of accommodation throughout the itinerary. Meals are also included, with 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners.
Breakfast and dinner arrangements are specified, ensuring travelers are well-fed during the journey. The meals provide a chance to sample local Peruvian cuisine and take in the culinary culture.
With a mix of included and independent meals, the tour strikes a balance between convenience and flexibility, allowing travelers to explore on their own as well.
Machu Picchu Regulations
Travelers visiting Machu Picchu are subject to several important regulations. For starters, visitors are limited to a maximum stay of 4 hours within the historic site, and must be accompanied by an authorized guide.
Plus, certain items are prohibited, including:
- Professional cameras
- Drones
- Large backpacks
On top of that, the Peruvian government has implemented new regulations against single-use plastics, so visitors are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles.
Lastly, it’s crucial to pack appropriate clothing and be mindful of health precautions when exploring high-altitude areas like Machu Picchu.
Arrival and Booking Details
Upon arrival at the J Chavez International Airport in Lima, a tour representative will be on hand to assist travelers.
The tour is fully confirmed at the time of booking, unless the trip is within 9 days of travel.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Travelers who are Peruvian or have resided in Peru for over 60 days will be subject to an 18% tax.
It’s important to note that the famous Juanita mummy exhibit may not be available from January to April, and a replica will be displayed instead.
For the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, travelers can only bring hand luggage up to 5 kg, while the main baggage can be stored in Cusco.
Mummy Exhibit Note
An important note for visitors is the availability of the famous Juanita mummy exhibit. This renowned archaeological find isn’t on display from January to April each year. In its place, a replica will be shown during this time period.
Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- The Juanita mummy is only exhibited from May to December annually.
- A replica will be available for viewing during the off-season months.
- This scheduling is an important consideration when planning your visit to see the mummy exhibit.
It’s crucial to be aware of these exhibit details to ensure you can view the real Juanita mummy if it’s a high priority for your Peru tour.
Luggage Guidance
For the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, travelers can only bring hand luggage with a maximum weight of 5 kg. This ensures easy navigation and transport to the hotel.
Passengers’ main baggage can be stored in Cusco while they explore Machu Picchu. This luggage arrangement provides convenience and flexibility during the visit.
Travelers won’t have to worry about managing large suitcases on trains and buses. The tour’s packing guidelines help streamline the experience, allowing participants to focus on the incredible sights and activities throughout their journey in Peru.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Tour Offer Any Optional Activities or Free Time?
The tour does not explicitly mention any optional activities or free time. However, there may be opportunities for participants to explore on their own during the scheduled stops and transfers throughout the 13-day itinerary.
Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized to Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to individual preferences, though the core itinerary may not be altered significantly. Travelers can request additional optional activities or free time based on their interests and needs with the tour operator.
What Is the Group Size and Traveler Demographic for This Tour?
The tour group size is not specified, but it’s likely a small group tour. The demographic tends to be mature travelers interested in culture and exploring Peru’s highlights with an Italian-speaking guide.
Are There Any Opportunities for Independent Exploration During the Tour?
The tour provides some opportunities for independent exploration, such as free time in Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco. However, the majority of the itinerary consists of guided activities and group transportation, allowing limited time for unstructured exploration.
What Is the Level of Physical Activity and Fitness Required for This Tour?
The tour involves a moderate level of physical activity, including walking tours, climbing steps, and hiking in high-altitude areas. Participants should be able to walk for several hours at a time and manage uneven terrain. Some flexibility and good general fitness are recommended.
Recap
The "13 Days Mysterious Peru" tour offers an immersive Italian-speaking guided experience through Peru’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Travelers will explore Ballestas Islands, Ica’s dunes, and the iconic Machu Picchu, with private transfers and accommodation. This comprehensive itinerary ensures an unforgettable journey through Peru’s breathtaking destinations, catering to those seeking an authentic and memorable travel experience.
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- |All Peru in 20 Days:Lima,Ica,Arequipa,Puno,Cusco,Amazonas |