This comprehensive 9-day, 8-night tour from Lima promises an unforgettable adventure through the captivating landscapes of Ica, Paracas, and Cusco. Travelers can look forward to an exciting blend of activities, from sandboarding in the Huacachina dunes to hiking to the striking Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, they’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage of these regions, exploring the enigmatic Nazca Lines and the majestic Machu Picchu under the guidance of knowledgeable experts. With seamless transportation and a focus on safety, this tour offers an immersive experience that may leave visitors eager to discover more about the wonders of Peru.
Key Points
- A 9-day/8-night tour from Lima that explores Ica, Paracas, and Cusco, including highlights like Ballestas Islands, Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain.
- Suitable for small groups up to 15 people, with guided tours and transportation provided in English and Spanish.
- Offers immersive experiences, such as sandboarding in Huacachina and hikes to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.
- Includes select meals, with opportunities to sample local Peruvian cuisine, and hassle-free airport transfers.
- Requires participants to be prepared with appropriate clothing, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes, and avoid certain medical conditions.
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Tour Overview
The Ica-Paracas-Cusco 9D/8N tour typically offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
It’s a 9-day journey that takes travelers from the capital city of Lima to the stunning Ballestas Islands, the mysterious Nazca Lines, and the historic Inca city of Cusco.
The tour is well-suited for groups of up to 15 participants and is available in both English and Spanish.
Highlights include visits to iconic landmarks, sandboarding in Huacachina, a scenic train ride to Machu Picchu, and hikes to stunning natural wonders like Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.
With a focus on immersive experiences and convenience, this tour provides an excellent overview of some of Peru’s top attractions.
Itinerary Highlights
This 9-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Peru’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.
It begins with a city tour of Lima, showcasing its historic center, catacombs, and iconic sites. The journey continues to the Ballestas Islands, where travelers can observe marine wildlife, followed by a visit to a vineyard and the sand dunes of Huacachina.
The highlight is the Nazca Lines overflight, providing a bird’s-eye view of the enigmatic geoglyphs.
In Cusco, the tour explores the Inca capital, including the Qoricancha temple and the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
The Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, and the Rainbow Mountain are also part of this comprehensive itinerary, offering a well-rounded experience of Peru’s wonders.
Pricing and Booking
The tour is priced from $1,180.00 per person, with an option to reserve now and pay later.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
The 9-day, 8-night tour is limited to 15 participants and is offered in both Spanish and English.
Transportation, select meals, entrance fees, and a live tour guide are included.
Passengers should bring their passport/ID, sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes, and be mindful of health advisories, as the tour may not be suitable for everyone.
Additional services, such as travel insurance, aren’t included.
Participants should confirm starting times and availability before booking.
Transportation Inclusions
Airport transfers, tourist transportation, and bus transfers are all included in the tour. This ensures a seamless and convenient travel experience throughout the 9-day journey.
The package includes:
- Airport transfers to and from your hotel, providing a hassle-free arrival and departure.
- Tourist transportation, such as buses or vans, to navigate between the various destinations on the itinerary.
- Bus transfers to specific sites, including the Ballestas Islands, Nazca Overflight, and the Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain hikes.
These inclusions eliminate the need for participants to worry about logistics, allowing them to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of the Ica, Paracas, and Cusco region.
Dining and Meals
The tour package includes select meals throughout the 9-day itinerary.
On Day 5, guests will enjoy a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley. Similarly, breakfast and lunch are provided on the hikes to Humantay Lake on Day 7 and Rainbow Mountain on Day 8.
These included meals give travelers a chance to sample local Peruvian cuisine and fuel up for the day’s activities.
The tour doesn’t cover all meals, allowing participants to explore the diverse dining options in each destination at their own pace.
Travelers should consider any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking the tour.
Guided Tours
Knowledgeable guides lead travelers through the highlights of this comprehensive tour. Equipped with expertise in Spanish and English, they provide in-depth commentary and insights into the cultural and historical significance of each destination.
The guided tour includes:
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A captivating exploration of Lima’s historic center, visiting iconic landmarks like the Huaca Pucllana and the San Francisco catacombs.
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An immersive experience at the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Peruvian Galapagos," where visitors can observe diverse wildlife.
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A guided tour of the impressive Inca ruins at Cusco and the Sacred Valley, culminating in a visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
Throughout the journey, the guides ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
Health and Safety
Travelers should be aware of some important health and safety considerations for this tour.
Drinking coca tea may help prevent altitude sickness, a common issue in the Andes. However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with vertigo, epilepsy, recent surgeries, or individuals over 70 years old.
Participants should bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and proper hiking shoes. Drugs, alcohol, and explosive substances aren’t allowed.
The tour guide will provide important health information throughout the trip. Following the guide’s instructions and being mindful of one’s physical limits are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Additional Information
One key additional service provided is travel insurance, which isn’t included in the tour package. This is strongly recommended to protect against unexpected events, medical emergencies, or trip interruptions. The tour operator can provide details on reputable insurance providers to consider.
Other important information to note includes:
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Pickup details – the guide will contact you 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, so be sure to wait in the hotel lobby for about 10 minutes to ensure a smooth start to your day.
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Availability confirmation – it’s advisable to confirm starting times and availability of participant spots before booking, as this tour has limited group sizes.
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Extra expenses – while the tour includes many key elements, any additional personal expenses incurred during the trip will be the responsibility of the participant.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?
Yes, this tour can be booked as a solo traveler. The group size is limited to 15 participants, allowing for a personalized experience. Solo travelers are welcome and will be paired with other group members if they don’t wish to explore alone.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to reserve their spot and receive a full refund if they need to cancel their plans.
Can I Add Extra Activities or Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary and add extra activities. The tour company offers flexible options to personalize your experience. Additional services and excursions can be arranged upon request, subject to availability and additional fees.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Gear?
The tour provides hiking equipment like hiking shoes, sun hats, and backpacks, so travelers don’t need to bring their own hiking gear. However, they should bring comfortable clothing and sun protection for the outdoor activities.
How Much Spending Money Should I Budget for the Trip?
According to the tour details, the price of the tour is from $1,180 per person. Additional expenses to budget for include travel insurance, any extra activities, and personal spending money. The tour includes most meals and entrance fees.
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Recap
This captivating 9-day tour through Peru’s stunning landscapes offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and cultural discovery. From the enigmatic Nazca Lines to the majestic Machu Picchu, travelers can expect an immersive experience guided by knowledgeable experts. With activities like sandboarding in Huacachina and hikes to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s breathtaking natural wonders and rich history.