From Lima: Ica and Paracas-Machu Picchu-Humantay Lake 6d/5n

This 6-day journey from Lima to Ica, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and Humantay Lake promises an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. Participants will explore the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of Peru, from the bustling streets of Lima to the stunning natural wonders of the Andes. The tour itinerary includes a captivating city tour, a boat expedition to the Ballestas Islands, and thrilling activities amid the Huacachina Oasis. But the true highlight awaits as the journey ventures deep into the heart of the Inca Empire, where the magnificent Machu Picchu and the serene Humantay Lake leave an indelible mark on the soul.

Key Points

• This 6-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, covering Lima, Paracas, Ica, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Humantay Lake.
• The tour includes activities such as a city tour of Lima, a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, and sandboarding in Huacachina.
• Travelers will visit the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu and hike to the stunning Humantay Lake.
• The tour is priced from $790 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a group size limited to 10 participants.
• The tour is available in both Spanish and English languages.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Tour Overview and Pricing of the "Ica and Paracas-Machu Picchu-Humantay Lake Tour" provides a rundown of the package, including its duration, pricing, reservation details, group size, languages offered, and the inclusions.

The tour lasts 6 days and is priced from $790 per person. Reservations can be made with a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The group size is limited to 10 participants, and the tour is available in Spanish and English.

The package includes transportation, entrance tickets, meals, and bilingual guides throughout the tour.

Day 1: Lima City Tour

On the first day of the tour, travelers are greeted with an airport pick-up at 13:30.

They’ll visit the archaeological site of Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca ruin. Next, they’ll explore the historic center, seeing sights like the San Francisco catacombs.

The tour then heads to the upscale neighborhood of Miraflores, stopping at the picturesque Love Park.

Throughout the day, a bilingual guide provides commentary, ensuring travelers gain insights into Lima’s rich history and culture.

The city tour ends at approximately 18:00, giving participants time to rest before the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Ballestas Islands and Huacachina

Early in the morning, between 3:00-4:00 a.m., the hotel picks up travelers for the journey to the Ballestas Islands.

Often referred to as the "Little Galápagos," these islands are home to an abundance of marine wildlife. Guests will board a boat and observe sea lions, Humboldt penguins, pelicans, and a variety of birds.

After the island tour, the group will visit a nearby vineyard for a lunch.

The next stop is the Huacachina Oasis, a stunning desert lagoon surrounded by massive sand dunes. Here, travelers can experience the thrill of tubular and sandboarding down the towering dunes.

The day concludes with a return to Lima around 10:30 p.m.

Day 3: Cusco City Tour

Travelers are picked up from the airport and transferred to their hotel in Cusco. After some free time to acclimate, the city tour begins at 2PM.

The first stop is Qoricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun. Next, they’ll visit the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress with its massive stone walls.

The tour continues to Qenqo, an archaeological site with an underground cave system. Puka Pukara, a red-hued Inca military complex, is the penultimate site.

The final stop is Tambomachay, an Inca site thought to have been used as a bath or spa. By 7PM, the tour returns to Cusco.

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Day 4: Machu Picchu

The day commences with a hotel pick-up at 4:00 a.m., ushering travelers to the Ollantaytambo train station for the journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo.

The train ride takes approximately 2 hours, after which a 30-minute bus ride transports visitors to the entrance of the iconic Machu Picchu.

A guided tour of the Inca citadel follows, providing an in-depth exploration of its history and architecture over 2.5 hours.

Lunch is then served in Machu Picchu Pueblo before the group departs, arriving back in Cusco around 20:30.

This comprehensive day allows guests to fully enjoy the wonder of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most renowned archaeological sites.

Day 5: Humantay Lake

After a hearty breakfast in Mollepata, the group departs at 4:00 a.m. for the hike to Humantay Lake.

The scenic trail winds through local flora and fauna, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Upon reaching the lake, travelers are rewarded with the breathtaking sight of its turquoise waters reflecting the towering Humantay Peak.

The guide provides personalized advice and insights, enhancing the experience. After ample time to admire the natural beauty, the group returns to Cusco, arriving around 18:30.

This excursion offers a chance to immerse in the Andean landscape and appreciate the region’s natural wonders.

Inclusions

The tour package includes various components to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.

On the first day, visitors receive airport pickup and a comprehensive city tour of Lima, including entrance fees and a knowledgeable guide.

Day 2 features transportation to Paracas, a guided boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, a vineyard lunch, and adventurous activities like tubular and sandboarding in the Huacachina Oasis.

The Cusco city tour on Day 3 provides a bilingual guide and transportation.

The Machu Picchu experience on Day 4 includes a train ticket, bus transportation, a guided tour, and lunch.

Exclusions

While the tour package includes a wide range of services and activities, there are some items not covered in the price.

The exclusions for this tour include any services not explicitly mentioned in the program. This means travelers will need to cover any additional expenses they incur, such as meals not included, tips for guides and drivers, and personal expenses.

Plus, travel insurance isn’t provided and is the responsibility of the participant to secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Accommodations During the Tour?

The tour includes hotel accommodations throughout the itinerary, with guests staying in comfortable lodgings in Lima, Paracas, Cusco, and Machu Picchu Pueblo. Specific hotel details aren’t provided, but all necessary accommodations are included in the tour package.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences. Clients can coordinate with the tour operator to modify the activities, timings, or visit additional destinations based on their interests and needs.

How Physically Demanding Is the Humantay Lake Hike?

The Humantay Lake hike is moderately physically demanding, requiring a strenuous 3-hour trek with an elevation gain of over 1,000 meters. Hikers should be in good physical condition and prepared for the challenging ascent through varied terrain and high altitude.

Are Alcoholic Beverages Included in the Meals?

The tour package does not mention the inclusion of alcoholic beverages with meals. It likely only covers non-alcoholic drinks and food items listed in the itinerary. Participants would need to pay extra for any alcoholic beverages they wish to consume.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Destinations?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional destinations. Travelers can customize their itinerary and add extra days to visit other attractions in Peru at an additional cost. The tour operator is flexible in accommodating requests for extended tours.

Recap

This 6-day tour from Lima to Ica, Paracas, Machu Picchu, and Humantay Lake offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers will explore the vibrant city of Lima, embark on a boat adventure to the Ballestas Islands, and enjoy the cultural richness of Cusco before witnessing the wonder of Machu Picchu. The journey culminates with a scenic hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, showcasing the natural beauty of Peru.

You can check if your dates are available here: