Exploring the wonders of Peru in just 12 days is an opportunity not to be missed. This captivating journey takes travelers through the vibrant capital of Lima, the stunning coastal region of Paracas, and the iconic Inca sites of Cusco and Machu Picchu. With a focus on culture and outdoor adventure, the tour promises an unforgettable experience. Professional guides, thoughtful amenities, and a small group setting ensure an immersive and personalized exploration of Peru’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage. For those looking to uncover the hidden gems of this captivating South American nation, this 12-day itinerary offers a compelling and comprehensive introduction.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 12-day tour of Peru, covering Lima, Ica, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, with prices starting at $1,475 per person.
- Limited group size of 15 participants, with tour options available in English and Spanish, and flexible booking and cancellation policies.
- Itinerary includes city tours, wildlife observation, sandboarding, Nazca Lines flight, Humantay Lagoon trek, and exploration of Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites.
- Package includes hotel pick-up, professional guides, meals, activities, train tickets, and travel insurance for a seamless travel experience.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, sandboarding, and culture, allowing travelers to connect with Peru’s natural beauty and heritage.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cusco
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Included Services
- Outdoor Activities
- Booking Information
- Exploring Lima
- Adventure in Paracas
- Discovering Cusco and Machu Picchu
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are Meals Included During Free Time in the Itinerary?
- Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour Option?
- Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
- What Is the Dress Code for the Different Activities?
- Can I Extend My Stay in Peru After the Tour Ends?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
The tour offers a 12-day exploration of Peru, with prices starting from $1,475.00 per person.
The group size is limited to 15 participants, and the tours are available in English and Spanish.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later.
The itinerary includes a city tour of Lima, visits to Ica and Paracas, a Nazca Lines flight, Cusco exploration, and a trek to Humantay Lagoon and the Seven Coloured Mountain.
The package includes hotel pick-up, professional guides, meals, activities, train tickets, and travel insurance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary Highlights
Day 1 begins with airport pick-up and a transfer to the hotel, allowing travelers to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.
On Day 2, the tour explores the highlights of Lima, including the Park of Love, Huaca Pucllana, the historical center, and the Choco-museum.
Day 3 features an early departure for Ica and Paracas, where visitors will discover the Ballestas Islands and try sandboarding in Huacachina.
The Nazca flight on Day 4 precedes a bus transfer back to Lima.
Days 5-7 focus on Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
The following days include a hike to Humantay Lagoon, visits to the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray, and the vibrant Seven Coloured Mountain.
Included Services
Included in this comprehensive 12-day tour are a variety of services designed to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Participants will receive hotel pick-up and transportation, as well as the services of a professional guide and entry fees to all attractions.
Meals are provided during the tours, and exciting activities like tubing and sandboarding are included. Train tickets, either the Voyager or Expedition class, are provided for the Machu Picchu visit.
Trekking poles and oxygen assistance are available for the Cusco tours. Lastly, the tour package includes flight tickets and travel insurance, so travelers can focus on exploring Peru with peace of mind.
Outdoor Activities
This comprehensive 12-day tour offers a variety of outdoor activities for travelers to enjoy Peru’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
The itinerary includes:
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Wildlife observation at the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, pelicans, and Humboldt penguins.
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Hiking to the stunning Humantay Lagoon and the vibrant Vinicunca, also known as the Seven Coloured Mountain.
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Sandboarding down the towering dunes of Huacachina, an oasis in the Peruvian Desert.
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Visits to archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, Moray, and the Salt Mines of Maras, providing a glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
These outdoor activities allow travelers to connect with the natural beauty and history of Peru in an immersive and unforgettable way.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking Information
To check availability, travelers can confirm starting times and participant details.
The meeting point is provided on Google Maps for easy navigation. Flexible booking options allow travelers to reserve now and pay later.
The tour has a limited group size of 15 participants, catering to both English and Spanish-speaking guests. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
With an inclusive itinerary covering Lima, Ica, Paracas, Nazca, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lagoon, and the Seven Coloured Mountain, this 12-day Peru adventure offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s highlights.
Exploring Lima
Travelers begin their 12-day journey in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital city. Here, they’ll explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The tour includes a visit to the Park of Love, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Travelers then head to Huaca Pucllana, an impressive pre-Inca archaeological site.
The historical center, with its colonial architecture, is a highlight, as is the Choco-museum, where visitors can learn about Peru’s renowned chocolate.
Finally, the group tours the San Francisco Convent, known for its intricate catacombs.
- Explore the Park of Love and its ocean vistas
- Discover the pre-Inca ruins of Huaca Pucllana
- Immerse in the colonial charm of the historical center
- Indulge in Peru’s renowned chocolate at the Choco-museum
Adventure in Paracas
After exploring the vibrant capital of Lima, the group sets off for an adventure in Paracas. An early morning pick-up takes them to the coastal region, where they’ll visit the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Poor Man’s Galapagos."
This boat tour offers a chance to spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds.
Next, the group heads to the desert oasis of Huacachina, where they’ll try their hand at the exhilarating sport of sandboarding. As they glide down the towering dunes, they’ll take in the stunning landscapes that make Paracas a must-visit destination on any Peruvian adventure.
Discovering Cusco and Machu Picchu
Leaving the coastal wonders of Paracas behind, the group ventures into the heart of the Andes to explore the historical and cultural richness of Cusco and the iconic Machu Picchu.
Over the next three days, they’ll embark on a city tour of Cusco, enjoy the Sacred Valley, and marvel at the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu.
The itinerary includes:
- Guided tours of Cusco’s historic center and the sacred sites of the Incas
- A train ride through the Andes to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
- Trekking poles and oxygen assistance to ensure comfort at the high-altitude destinations
- Opportunities to connect with the vibrant local culture and cuisine
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Meals Included During Free Time in the Itinerary?
Meals are included only during the tours and activities outlined in the itinerary. During free time, participants are responsible for their own meals, which allows for more flexibility to explore local cuisine on their own.
Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour Option?
Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour option. This provides a more personalized experience with a guide dedicated solely to your group. Private tours can be arranged for an additional fee.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
There’s no minimum age requirement for this tour. However, the tour operator recommends that children under 8 years old may not enjoy the pace and physical activities. Participants of all ages are welcome, subject to parental discretion.
What Is the Dress Code for the Different Activities?
There’s no formal dress code, but it’s best to wear comfortable, casual clothing that can get dirty or wet. Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy walking shoes, and sun protection for outdoor activities like hiking and sandboarding.
Can I Extend My Stay in Peru After the Tour Ends?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Peru after the tour ends. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing you to easily extend your trip and explore more of the country on your own.
Discover Peru in 12 Days
Recap
This 12-day tour of Peru promises an immersive experience, taking travelers through vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From exploring historical sites in Lima to sandboarding thrills in Paracas, the journey culminates with a majestic visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. With professional guides, included amenities, and a small group size, this adventure offers an unforgettable way to discover the beauty and wonder of Peru.
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