Peru Wonders: A 9-Day Tour of an Ancient Land

08 Nights / 09 Days Duration

1-12 Group Size

3,399 meters Max. Altitude

Moderate Difficulty

Overview

What if you could journey to the heart of an empire that shaped a continent? Imagine standing where Incas once ruled, tasting flavors born from the sacred earth, and witnessing landscapes that defy imagination. This is the essence of our Peru wonders tour, your personal gateway to an ancient world, designed for profound immersion. We have designed this journey not just as a trip, but as a deep connection with history. It offers the rare privilege of exploring Machu Picchu twice. Your first visit is a deep dive into its history, guided by our local experts who breathe life into every stone. The second day is yours to connect on a personal level, a photographer's dream to capture the citadel's ethereal magic at your own pace. We have carefully curated this 9 day Peru itinerary as a perfect blend of archeology, history, gastronomy, and relaxation. Each day, you will be captivated by different locales that bring South America's rich history to life. The highlight is Peru’s award-winning gastronomy, where we add a farm-to-table essence to your culinary journey. This is one of the most complete best Peru tours available. You will also enjoy unique opportunities like the scenic train ride to Machu Picchu and a hands-on cooking class in Cusco. This is a hallmark of our approach to personalized travel in Peru. We believe your journey should be unforgettable, a collection of moments that stay with you forever. This is more than a tour; it is your story waiting to be written in the land of the Incas. Are you ready to discover the true Peru wonders? Let us craft your unforgettable Peruvian adventure.

Itinerary

Day 01

Day 1: Arrival in Lima & Pacific Coast Welcome

Your journey begins as our team welcomes you at Lima Airport.
We will drive you to your serene hotel retreat in Miraflores.
This location is situated near the beautiful Pacific Ocean.
We ensure you are well-rested for the adventures ahead.

Day 1 statistics: Lima Arrival

Location: Lima
Altitude: 154 m (505 ft)
Highlights: Arrival & Relaxation
Meals: None

Day 02

Day 2: Lima’s Bohemian Heart & Pre-Inca Treasures

We explore the best of Lima’s history today.
We will visit Barranco, the city's most colorful and ancient neighborhood.
In the afternoon, you will explore the famed Larco Museum.
Here you will find a fantastic collection of pre-Inca pottery and art.
You can return to your hotel at your leisure in the late afternoon.

Day 2 statistics: Lima's History & Art

Location: Lima
Altitude: 154 m (505 ft)
Highlights: Barranco District, Larco Museum
Meals: Breakfast

Day 03

Day 3: Flight to Cusco & Sacred Valley Acclimatization

We will pick you up early for your journey to the Andes.
A one-hour flight takes you to the imperial city of Cusco.
Upon arrival, we drive over the mountains into the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Staying here first helps you acclimate to the elevation changes.
We will stop at the impressive Pisac Archeological site.
You will enjoy a delicious lunch along the way to your hotel.

Day 3 statistics: Journey to the Sacred Valley

Location: Sacred Valley
Altitude: Approx. 2,900 m (9,500 ft)
Highlights: Flight to Cusco, Pisac
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 04

Day 4: UNESCO Sites of the Sacred Valley

Your day of Andean exploration Peru begins after breakfast.
Our local expert will lead you through the magic of Andean history.
We will head to the incredible sites of Ollantaytambo and Moray.
Both are designated UNESCO heritage sites.
We will stop for a special farm-to-table lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, we explore the fascinating Maras Salt Ponds.
We then return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon.

Day 4 statistics: Sacred Valley's UNESCO Sites

Location: Sacred Valley
Altitude: Approx. 2,900 m (9,500 ft)
Highlights: Ollantaytambo, Moray, Maras
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 05

Day 5: Scenic Train to Machu Picchu Town

We start our tour in the late morning today.
This gives you enough time to enjoy the morning before the train.
The nearly two-hour train ride is an experience of a lifetime.
You will watch the geography change from Andes to cloud forest.
Upon arrival in Machu Picchu town, we will check into the hotel.
We then begin our first exploration of the Machu Picchu citadel.
This late afternoon visit offers a unique, less crowded experience.

Day 5 statistics: Train to Machu Picchu

Location: Machu Picchu Town
Altitude: 2,040 m (6,690 ft)
Highlights: Scenic Train, First Machu Picchu Exploration
Meals: Breakfast

Day 06

Day 6: Machu Picchu Sunrise & Return to Cusco

Today you will explore every corner of Machu Picchu again.
This second visit provides ample time for photos and deep exploration.
It is a truly fulfilling experience at one of the world's great Peru wonders.
Afterward, we will head back to town for lunch on your own.
You will have time to explore the market before our train ride.
We journey back to Ollantaytambo and then drive to Cusco for the night. This part of the journey is similar to our Full-day Machu Picchu Tour.

Day 6 statistics: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

Location: Cusco
Altitude: 3,400 m (11,152 ft)
Highlights: Second Machu Picchu Visit, Return Journey
Meals: Breakfast

Day 07

Day 7: Cusco’s Inca Legacy & Textile Traditions

Today you will explore more incredible UNESCO archeology sites.
We will pick you up in the late morning from your hotel.
We will discover the massive fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the temple of Q'enqo.
Then, we visit an alpaca farm to learn more about textiles and history.
You will have time to feed the alpacas and enjoy the morning.
Later, we explore Cusco’s Qoricancha, the sacred Temple of the Sun. This is one of the most authentic Cusco Experiences.

Day 7 statistics: Cusco's Inca Legacy

Location: Cusco
Altitude: 3,400 m (11,152 ft)
Highlights: Sacsayhuaman, Qoricancha, Alpaca Farm
Meals: Breakfast

Day 08

Day 8: Cusco Market Tour & Peruvian Cooking Class

You will meet our local chef to explore the vibrant San Pedro Market.
We will meet local vendors and learn about regional crops and fruits.
This experience showcases the heart of the local economy.
After the market, we walk to our chef’s kitchen.
You will learn the magic of cooking the best Peru tours food.
You will also learn to make pisco sours and enjoy these delicacies.
The late afternoon is yours to relax back at the hotel.

Day 8 statistics: Cusco's Culinary Heart

Location: Cusco
Altitude: 3,400 m (11,152 ft)
Highlights: San Pedro Market, Peruvian Cooking Class
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 09

Day 9: Departure from Cusco

Our amazing Peru wonders journey concludes today.
We will drive you to the airport according to your flight schedule.
We say goodbye, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 9 statistics: Departure from Cusco

Location: Cusco
Altitude: 3,400 m (11,152 ft)
Highlights: Departure
Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

Included

All admission fees to national parks, archeological sites, and performances.
3-star hotel accommodations.
Meals as specified in the itinerary (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches).
Domestic round-trip flight from Lima to Cusco.
Seamless travel in our comfortable, private vehicles for all your transfers and tours.
Professional, local expert tour guides.
Purified water and snacks during excursions.
24/7 assistance from our dedicated team.

Not Included

Meals not specified in the itinerary.
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and staff.
Alcoholic beverages.
International flights to and from Peru.

Recommendations

Acclimatize: Spend your first days in the Sacred Valley to adjust to the altitude.
Packing: Bring comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing temperatures, and sun protection.
Health: Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals upon arrival to help your body acclimate.
Documents: Always carry your passport, travel insurance information, and any necessary tickets.
Extras: Carry some local currency (Peruvian Soles) for tips, snacks, and souvenirs.

Additional Information

This 9 day Peru itinerary goes beyond a simple checklist of sites. We immerse you in the stories behind the stones. This journey is a deep dive into the living history of the Peru wonders.

Lima: Beyond the Capital's Charm

In Lima, you won't just see the bohemian Barranco district; you'll walk across its legendary "Bridge of Sighs." At the Larco Museum, you'll discover that pre-Inca cultures had a surprisingly open and artistic approach to life.

The Sacred Valley: Inca Innovation

In the Sacred Valley, you'll learn how the mysterious circular terraces of Moray likely served as an advanced Inca agricultural laboratory. Nearby, the Maras salt ponds have been harvested since before the Incas, a tradition continuing today.

Machu Picchu: The Lost City's Secrets

The pinnacle, Machu Picchu, reveals its genius in stones cut so perfectly they need no mortar. Our guided tour of Peru will explore the compelling theories about why this incredible citadel was abandoned.

Cusco: The Imperial City's Power

Finally, in Cusco, you'll stand in awe of Sacsayhuaman. This fortress features massive stones that were placed with a precision that continues to baffle engineers today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, absolutely. The itinerary is designed for all ages. It includes a variety of activities that are engaging and suitable for families. We can also tailor parts of the journey to better suit your family's needs.

We recommend packing light, breathable clothing for your time in Lima. For Cusco and the Sacred Valley, warmer layers are essential. Temperatures can change quickly in the Andes. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must for every location.

Meals specified in the detailed itinerary are included. This typically covers all breakfasts and several lunches. However, some meals, like lunches on free exploration days, are not covered to give you more flexibility and choice.

We have designed this Peru travel package to minimize the effects of altitude. By starting your Andean journey in the lower-elevation Sacred Valley, your body has time to acclimate gradually. We also provide coca tea and constant guidance.

Yes, customization is our specialty. We can adapt this itinerary to your interests. Whether you wish to add a challenging trek, focus more on gastronomy, or upgrade your accommodations, we can craft the perfect journey for you. Contact us to start planning.

The dry season, from April to October, is generally the best time for this 9 day Peru itinerary. You'll likely experience sunny days in the Andes and pleasant weather in Lima, which is ideal for sightseeing and photography.

This tour is rated as low to moderate difficulty. It involves walking tours in cities and at archaeological sites. The pace is designed to be comfortable, with plenty of time for rest and acclimatization to the altitude

We include comfortable and well-located 3-star hotels throughout your journey. These establishments are selected for their quality service, cleanliness, and convenience, ensuring you have a restful night after each day's exploration.

Yes, we can. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking. Peruvian cuisine is very diverse, and we will work with our partner hotels and restaurants to ensure your needs are met.

Citizens from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and the European Union do not typically need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. However, we always recommend checking the latest entry requirements with your local Peruvian embassy or consulate.

While not mandatory, we strongly recommend that all our travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance. It should cover trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen baggage for your peace of mind.

The official currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While US dollars are accepted in many tourist-oriented establishments, we recommend carrying some local currency for smaller purchases, tips, and markets. ATMs are widely available in cities like Lima and Cusco.

Tipping is customary for good service but is not obligatory. For tour guides and drivers, a tip is a greatly appreciated gesture. In restaurants, a service charge is often included, but an additional 10% for excellent service is common.

Most hotels included in this Peru travel package offer complimentary Wi-Fi in common areas and/or rooms. However, please be aware that the connection speed and reliability can vary, especially in more remote areas of the Andes.

Peru uses Type A and Type C outlets, with a standard voltage of 220V. We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure you can charge all your devices without any issues.

Yes, all our local expert guides are bilingual and speak fluent English. They are not only knowledgeable about the history and culture of the Peru wonders but are also excellent communicators, ensuring you get the most out of every experience.

We have carefully balanced guided activities with personal time. You will find free time in the afternoons on several days, particularly in Lima and Cusco, allowing you to explore at your own pace, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax.

We advise against drinking tap water. We will provide purified water during all excursions, and bottled water is readily available for purchase everywhere. Hotels will also provide safe drinking water.

We specialize in small, intimate group experiences to ensure personalized attention. While this specific tour is often booked privately, group sizes for shared services typically do not exceed 16 people, creating a more engaging guided tour of Peru.

Your safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in first aid, and we have established protocols for any medical situation. We are in constant communication with our central office and have access to medical facilities in all the locations we visit.