Embark on an unforgettable journey through Peru’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural tapestry with the "Route South 12 Days: Lima-Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco With Hotel" tour. This comprehensive itinerary immerses travelers in the diverse wonders of the country, from the awe-inspiring sand dunes of Ica to the historic charm of Arequipa and the breathtaking vistas of the Colca Canyon. Explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu, savor authentic local cuisines, and unwind in comfortable accommodations – all while enjoying the flexibility of customizable booking options. With an expertly crafted program, this tour promises an unparalleled adventure that will leave you yearning for more.
Key Points
- 12-day tour along the Route South of Peru, covering cities from Lima to Cusco, with hotel accommodation and various included services.
- Highlights include exploring Ica, Paracas, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, and the iconic Machu Picchu site.
- Transportation is a combination of private and public options, with train tickets for the Machu Picchu journey.
- Local cuisine, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences are seamlessly integrated into the itinerary.
- Flexible booking options, free cancellation, and travel insurance provide added convenience and peace of mind.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Daily Itinerary Highlights
- Accommodation and Transportation
- Included Meals and Activities
- Outdoor Adventures and Experiences
- Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley
- Booking Flexibility and Insurance
- Transportation Arrangements and Transfers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Much Additional Spending Money Is Recommended for the Tour?
- What Are the Weather Conditions Typically Like During the Tour?
- Can I Book Optional Add-On Activities or Extensions to the Tour?
- Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Personal Interests?
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This 12-day tour along the Route South of Peru takes travelers from Lima to Ica, Arequipa, Puno, and finally to Cusco.
Priced from $1,420.00 per person, the tour includes airport pickup, hotel transfers, accommodation, transportation, professional guides, entrance fees, and various activities like tubing, sandboarding, and hiking.
Travelers can enjoy flexible booking with the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
English-speaking live tour guides are available throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience as visitors explore the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Daily Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with airport pick-up and a hotel transfer on Day 1.
On Day 2, visitors explore Ica and Paracas, including the Ballestas Islands, a vineyard lunch, and the Huacachina oasis where they enjoy tubing and sandboarding.
Day 3 starts with an airport pick-up, followed by a free morning and a city tour of Arequipa.
The journey continues to Colca Canyon on Day 4, with a lunch stop in Chivay, thermal baths, and a traditional dance performance.
On Day 5, travelers witness the majestic flight of the condors at Cruz del Condor before driving to Puno.
Accommodation and Transportation
Accommodation on this 12-day tour through southern Peru ranges from 2-star hotels, providing comfortable and convenient lodging for travelers. Transportation is a mix of private and public options, ensuring a seamless journey.
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Hotel | 2-star accommodations with basic amenities |
| Boat | Normal boats used for island and canal tours |
| Train | Voyager or Expedition class tickets for Machu Picchu |
| Flight | Included for airport transfers |
Hotel pick-up and drop-off are provided, and entrance fees to attractions are covered. The tour includes a professional guide to enhance the experience throughout the itinerary.
Included Meals and Activities
Meals and activities are an integral part of this 12-day journey through southern Peru. The tour includes various local cuisines, from a vineyard lunch in Ica to a traditional dinner with dance performances in Chivay.
Outdoor adventures like tubing and sandboarding in Huacachina, and a hike to the Seven Colours Mountain, allow travelers to enjoy the natural beauty.
Guided tours to iconic sites like Machu Picchu, the Uros and Amantani islands, and Cusco’s historic landmarks provide an in-depth cultural experience.
Walking poles and oxygen assistance are available during Cusco tours to ensure comfort.
Throughout the trip, all necessary transportation, entrance fees, and travel insurance are included, making this a comprehensive and seamless experience.
More Great Tours NearbyOutdoor Adventures and Experiences
What outdoor adventures and experiences can travelers look forward to on this 12-day journey through southern Peru? This tour offers a diverse range of exhilarating activities.
Guests can try sandboarding and tubing in the dunes of Huacachina, explore the Ballestas Islands by boat, and hike through the stunning Colca Canyon.
The tour also includes a visit to the sacred site of Machu Picchu, where visitors can marvel at the ancient Inca citadel.
Plus, travelers will have the opportunity to engage in a traditional hike to the Seven Colours Mountain, seeing the region’s natural beauty.
Throughout the journey, the tour provides equipment and assistance, ensuring a safe and memorable outdoor experience.
Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley
Although Machu Picchu is the undisputed highlight of this 12-day tour through southern Peru, the Sacred Valley also offers a wealth of captivating Inca ruins and vibrant indigenous culture. On day 9, travelers will visit the impressive ancient sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, where they’ll enjoy a buffet lunch with stunning views. The following day, they’ll embark on a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, savoring a delicious lunch in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco. This immersive experience provides a well-rounded appreciation of Peru’s rich history and natural beauty.
| Machu Picchu Tour | Sacred Valley Tour |
|---|---|
| – Guided visit to Machu Picchu | – Tour of Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins |
| – Lunch in Aguas Calientes | – Buffet lunch with panoramic views |
| – Return to Cusco | – Appreciation of Inca heritage and culture |
| – Unforgettable experience | – Comprehensive understanding of the region |
Booking Flexibility and Insurance
One of the highlights of this 12-day tour is its flexible booking options.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it easy to plan ahead. What’s more, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
The tour also includes travel insurance, ensuring travelers are covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
With a live tour guide available in English, you can rest assured you’ll have a knowledgeable and attentive companion throughout your journey.
Whether you’re looking for a hassle-free booking experience or want the security of insurance, this tour has you covered.
Transportation Arrangements and Transfers
Seamlessly connecting the various destinations, the tour’s transportation arrangements and transfers ensure a hassle-free experience for travelers. Hotel pickup and drop-off provide a convenient start and end to each day’s activities. Boat transportation is utilized where required, offering a unique perspective of the landscapes. The tour also includes train tickets and flight arrangements, streamlining the journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu and back. To help travelers plan their trips, the following table outlines the key transportation details:
| Destination | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|
| Lima | Airport pickup | – |
| Ica | – | Airport pickup |
| Arequipa | Airport pickup | – |
| Puno | – | Hotel to bus station |
| Cusco | Hotel to airport or bus station | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Additional Spending Money Is Recommended for the Tour?
For this 12-day tour, it’s recommended to budget an additional $300-$500 per person for personal expenses like meals not included, souvenirs, and optional activities. The exact amount can vary based on individual spending habits.
What Are the Weather Conditions Typically Like During the Tour?
The weather during the tour is generally mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. Occasional rain showers may occur, especially in the Cusco and Puno regions, so bringing layers and rain gear is recommended.
Can I Book Optional Add-On Activities or Extensions to the Tour?
Yes, travelers can book optional add-on activities or extensions to the tour. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing guests to customize their experience by adding extra excursions or extending their stay in certain destinations.
Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Personal Interests?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit individual interests. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing travelers to adjust the itinerary and add optional activities based on their preferences and travel goals.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated, but it’s common for small-group tours like this to have a maximum of around 12-16 participants. This allows for a more personalized and intimate travel experience.
Route South 12 Days:Lima-Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco With Hotel
Recap
The "Route South 12 Days: Lima-Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco With Hotel" tour provides an immersive exploration of Peru’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Travelers can expect comfortable accommodations, guided tours of iconic sites, and the opportunity to savor local cuisines. With flexible booking options and transportation arrangements, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure through the country’s diverse regions, from the sand dunes of Ica to the heights of Machu Picchu.
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