15 Days Enigmas of the South From Lima

Uncover the enchanting mysteries of southern Peru on this captivating 15-day tour from Lima. Witness the enigmatic Nasca Lines, explore the breathtaking Ballestas Islands, and stand in awe before the majestic grandeur of Machu Picchu. With meticulous planning and expert guidance, this journey seamlessly blends private and shared transportation, comfortable accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences. Explore the region’s remarkable heritage, indulge in its culinary delights, and brace for the challenges of high-altitude adventures. This comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s most captivating southern treasures – but the true adventure lies in what awaits beyond the first steps.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 15-day tour exploring the highlights of southern Peru, including Ballestas Island, Nasca Lines, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.
• Seamless transportation through a mix of private, shared, and public vehicles, ensuring smooth transitions throughout the itinerary.
• Accommodation and meals provided, with a variety of hotels and inns for comfort and 14 breakfasts and 6 lunches included.
• Precautions for high-altitude destinations, such as Cusco and Puno, with recommendations to manage altitude sickness symptoms and acclimatize gradually.
• Adherence to Machu Picchu regulations, including time limitations, prohibited items, and luggage restrictions for domestic flights to Cusco.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 15-day Enigmas of the South tour from Lima, Peru showcases some of the country’s most captivating attractions.

Travelers will visit Ballestas Island, the mysterious Nasca Lines, the colonial city of Arequipa, the breathtaking Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

The tour includes half-day city tours in Lima and Arequipa, full-day excursions to Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

With a mix of private and shared transportation, this comprehensive itinerary offers a well-balanced exploration of Peru’s southern highlights.

Transportation and Transfers

The tour provides a range of transportation options to ensure seamless transfers throughout the journey.

Private vehicles whisk travelers from and to the airports, while shared vehicles transport them between train and bus stations as needed.

For longer overland journeys, the tour utilizes public buses accompanied by a guide, such as the routes from Lima to Paracas, Paracas to Nasca, Nasca to Arequipa, Arequipa to Colca, and Puno to Cusco.

Plus, the tour includes roundtrip train service to the iconic Machu Picchu site, with the option to choose between Expedition or Voyager service on a shared basis.

Accommodation and Meals

Thirteen nights’ accommodation are included throughout the tour.

Travelers will stay at a variety of hotels and inns, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.

Breakfast is provided on 14 days, while 6 lunch meals are also part of the package.

The tour excludes personal expenses, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and any meals not explicitly stated in the program.

Guests should note that check-in at hotels typically begins at 1:00 PM.

Proper precautions are recommended for the high-altitude cities of Cusco and Puno, such as resting, drinking coca tea, and eating lightly upon arrival to acclimate.

High-Altitude Precautions

Why are proper precautions recommended for the high-altitude cities of Cusco and Puno? Traveling to these destinations, which sit over 3,400 meters above sea level, can cause altitude sickness in some visitors. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and insomnia.

To minimize discomfort, it’s advised to rest upon arrival, drink coca tea, and eat light meals. Acclimatization is crucial, so travelers should avoid strenuous activities for the first 24-48 hours.

Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol also helps the body adjust. With proper precautions, visitors can safely enjoy the magnificent sights of these Andean cities without succumbing to altitude-related issues.

Machu Picchu Regulations

New entrance regulations for Machu Picchu aim to preserve the iconic site for future generations.

Visitors are now limited to a maximum stay of 4 hours within the citadel, accompanied by a guide. Plus, an extra 3 hours are allowed for alternate routes.

The regulations also prohibit the following items:

1. Professional cameras
2. Drones
3. Selfie sticks
4. Sharp objects and oversized backpacks

On top of that, single-use plastics are banned in natural reserves, and visitors are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles.

Domestic flights to Cusco must arrive by 10:30 hrs, with only one piece of hand luggage allowed (max 5 kg).

Packing and Luggage Tips

When packing for this comprehensive 15-day tour, travelers should consider the diverse climates and activities they’ll encounter. Comfortable, layered clothing is a must, as temperatures can vary greatly, especially at higher altitudes.

Sturdy, broken-in walking shoes are essential for the numerous hikes and explorations. Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics are ideal. A small backpack or daypack is recommended for carrying essentials during excursions.

Travelers should also pack sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as any necessary medications. To comply with new regulations, large or oversized bags aren’t permitted at Machu Picchu.

Ultimately, adaptable, practical packing will ensure an enjoyable, hassle-free journey through the enigmas of Peru’s stunning southern region.

Sustainable Travel Practices

Frequently, travelers on this comprehensive 15-day tour of Peru’s southern enigmas are mindful of adopting sustainable travel practices.

Key considerations include:

1. Reducing single-use plastics by bringing reusable water bottles, as new regulations prohibit such plastics in natural reserves.

2. Respecting the cultural heritage of sites like Machu Picchu by adhering to entrance restrictions, such as the 4-hour maximum stay with a guide and limitations on prohibited items.

3. Supporting the local economy by opting for public transportation when feasible, such as the shared bus transfers between cities.

4. Mitigating environmental impact in high-altitude destinations by acclimating gradually and following altitude sickness prevention recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend My Stay at Any Destination?

Yes, you can extend your stay at any destination. However, this would require additional bookings and costs not included in the tour package. It’s best to discuss any desired extensions with the tour operator prior to the trip.

Are There Any Free Days or Leisure Time?

The tour includes free time on several days, allowing travelers to explore destinations at their own pace. There are opportunities for independent activities and leisure time, though the itinerary is structured with guided tours and transfers.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour generally has a small group size, typically between 6-12 participants. The exact group size can vary, but it’s designed to provide an intimate and personalized experience for travelers exploring the enigmas of southern Peru.

Can I Request Dietary Accommodations?

Yes, dietary accommodations can be requested for this tour. The tour operator is able to cater to vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs with advance notice. However, some restrictions may apply depending on the specific location and meal.

Is Travel Insurance Required for This Tour?

Travel insurance is not explicitly required for this tour, but it’s highly recommended. The tour operator advises travelers to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unexpected events, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations or interruptions.

Recap

The "15 Days Enigmas of the South From Lima" tour offers an unparalleled exploration of Peru’s captivating southern region. From the enigmatic Nasca Lines to the majestic Machu Picchu, travelers will be immersed in the country’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With comfortable accommodations, guided excursions, and sustainable travel practices, this journey promises an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s remarkable treasures.