The Best of Peru in 13 Days – The Ultimate Travel Itinerary

  • Duration 13 Días / 12 Noches
  • Difficulty Moderate / Difficult
  • Trip type Tradicional/Cultural
Group size 6
From $ 1995 USD Per person
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Machu picchu in all its glory
Best llama photos
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sungate inca trail

Description of The Best of Peru in 13 Days

Experience the Best of Peru in 13 Days. A tour that blends the best that Peru has to offer. Discover the coast, desert, mountains, and ancient cultures. Starting in the capital of Lima, with its vibrant culture and colonial charm, travel south to the wildlife-rich Paracas National Reserve. Race across towering sand dunes in Huacachina before traveling to the ancient city of Cusco high in the Peruvian Andes. Journey through the stunning Sacred Valley and marvel at the iconic Machu Picchu. Climb to the colorful slopes of the Rainbow Mountain before ending this amazing tour in the lakeside town of Puno. Peru is waiting for you.

Overview

The Best of Peru in 13 Days at a glance

The incredible diversity of Peru awaits you; this 13-day package in Peru is a journey from the Pacific side of Peru to the heart of the Andes. Discover Lima and the desertic landscapes of Paracas and Huacachina; enjoy the adrenaline of the buggy rides and the sandboarding. Then travel to southern Peru to the unmissable Sacred Valley and experience the magic of Machu Picchu. Finalize your journey by visiting the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca.

Day 1 – Welcome to Peru – Arrival Day

Arrive at the Lima airport, and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 – Visit Lima City

Discover Lima in a half-day tour: visit the historic center and the modern neighborhoods of Lima.

Day 3 – Travel to Paracas & Huacachina

A full day of wonderful activities, beautiful beaches to see in Paracas, and exciting adventure in Huacachina.

Day 4 – Visit the Ballestas Islands

Time to see the incredible wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and then return to Lima

Day 5 – Travel to the Imperial City of Cusco

Travel to Cusco and settle into your hotel; today we relax and acclimate to the high altitude.

Day 6 – Discover the Capital of the Inca Civilization

Discover Cusco, the impressive Qoricancha temple, and the archaeological sites in the surroundings of Cusco.

Day 7 – The Sacred Valley of the Incas

Journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, explore ancient Inca ruins, learn about history, and see communities keep traditions alive.

Day 8 – Ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Hike through the legendary Inca Trail, a hike that takes you to the Sun Gate, where we enjoy the first views of the Machu Picchu temple. Later we descend to Aguas Calientes.

Day 9 – Visit Machu Picchu

Uncover the mysteries of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. See the most important temples and then return to Cusco.

Day 10 – Explore the Ancient City – Relax

Time for you to explore the city at your own pace.

Day 11 – Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Puno

Journey through the high Andean land to the Rainbow Mountain and then to the shores of Lake Titicaca in Puno.

Day 12 – Titicaca Lake Experience

Explore the floating Uros Islands and discover the traditions and breathtaking scenery of Taquile Island.

Day 13 – Tour Ends

Transfer from Puno to Juliaca Airport.

Itinerary

Itinerary

After a long journey Wayna Trekkers will meet you at the airport in Lima and transfer you to your hotel in the Miraflores district of Lima. Take the time to relax and prepare for the next part of your Peruvian adventure.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Tierra Viva Miraflores, Casa Andina Standard Miraflores Best Western Plus Urban Larco Hotel
4* Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores or Similar

  • Meals:

None

After breakfast at your hotel, pickup will be at 10:00 am from your hotel in Lima. Your experienced guide will take you on a visit to old and modern Lima on a 5–6-hour tour. Places we visit include the seaside town of Miraflores, where you will walk along the coast; the bohemian district of Barranco; and the Historic Center, including the main square that features the Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. Explore the Convent of San Francisco de Asis, its lovely patio, and the fascinating Catacombs. Finally, we visit the ruins at Huaca Pucllana and learn about its rich history. Lima is a perfect spot to start your adventure in Peru. Later we drop you back at your hotel and have the rest of the day at your leisure or take advantage of the wonderful range of restaurants all guaranteed to delight the palate.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Tierra Viva Miraflores, Casa Andina Standard Miraflores or Best Western Plus Urban Larco Hotel
4* Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores or Similar

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

A full day of adventure and pick up from your hotel will be super early at around 7 am. Travel south from Lima to the coastal town of Paracas, one of South America’s biggest protected desert reserves. Stunning Pacific coastline where desert meets the ocean. We will visit the Isthmus of the Peninsula, a spectacular and panoramic viewpoint. And then you will continue to Playa Roja, where you will make a short stop to enjoy the scenery, characterized because of the red sand. Afterwards, we go ahead to La Mina, where you will have some time to soak in the beach. Finally, our last stop will be in Lagunilla, “Fishermen’s Cove.”

Later we drive towards Huacachina for around 1 ½ hours (on the way we visit a winery to learn about the process of wine and pisco). Here sand boarding and dune buggy rides are the main events. These activities are popular among visitors who want to experience the thrill of racing over the sand dunes in buggies and sandboarding down some of the biggest sand dunes in the world. Enjoy the spectacular sunset views from the top of the dunes. After we have finished our fun on the dunes, we go to our hotel and get ready for the next day’s adventure.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Accommodation: DM Mossone Ica Hotel or similar
4* Hotel: Accommodation: Viñas Queirolo Hotel or similar.

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch

This morning, after breakfast, travel to Paracas, remembering the fun activities and unforgettable adventures that we have experienced in Huacachina. At the port, board a speedboat, passing the Chandelier, a geoglyph that is used as a point of reference for sailors and passing ships Scientists believe that the Chandelier has a strong connection with the Nazca lines and the Ballestas Islands.

Once we reach the islands, we observe many sea lions and Humboldt penguins. Discover the natural habitat of the hundreds of guano birds, such as the cormorants, red-footed boobies, pelicans, and seagulls. The perfect tour for bird watching and nature lovers. Our guide will give you all the relevant information about the area. Later, when we get back to the Bay of Paracas, you can eat at one of the many seafood restaurants located on the waterfront. Enjoy some free time to buy souvenirs. Next, we drive back to Lima, which will be a journey of almost 4 hours. On the way, we stop to stretch our legs before arriving at our hotel and enjoying a good night’s rest before the beginning of the next leg of our journey.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Tierra Viva Miraflores, Casa Andina Standard Miraflores or Best Western Plus Urban Larco Hotel
4* Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores or Similar

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

“Notes: The activities may vary due to weather conditions and other considerations. Your guide will provide details about the activities that you will enjoy each day.

Our experience continues as we embark on the next part of our journey as we fly to Cusco and receive a warm welcome at the airport by the Wayna Trekkers team before transferring to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing or explore the ancient city of Cusco.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Hacienda Cusco Plaza Hotel, Maytaq Wasin Hotel, Rumi Punku
4* Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol, Casa Andina Premium or Novotel Hotels

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

Today we will enjoy a fascinating walking tour of the city of Cusco with your local guide. We meet you at the lobby and head to the most important temple of the Inca Empire, the Temple of the Sun, known as Q’oricancha (“golden enclosure” in Quechua). Here, observe Inca architecture and discover the smaller temples dedicated to the moon, rainbow, stars, lightning, and thunder. Nowadays, the Spanish colonial Santo Domingo church stands on top of the temple.

Later, take our private transport for a 25-minute drive to the outskirts of the city to visit the spectacular archeological site of Sacsayhuaman, featuring giant enigmatic stones, some weighing 200 tons. Although the site was religious, the Spanish considered it a military fortress because of its location and how it was built. Sacsayhuaman holds the Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, on June 24 of each year. The tour continues to the other archeological sites in the area. Visit the fascinating Inca site of Q’enqo. This site was built into the natural stone of the area.
Next we go to Puca Pucara, a small, circular Inca site, which the Inca used as a shelter for travelers coming to Cusco. It was also a military center and used to protect the nearby temples.

The final stop on our tour is Tambomachay, known as the Temple of Water, with impressive water fountains, thought to be used by the Inca for rituals. The Inca practiced religious traditions tied to water in order to cleanse their souls. This tradition is known as the fountain of eternal youth.

From there, we’ll drive back down to Cusco City and drop you off at your hotel.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Hacienda Hotel, Maytaq Wasin Hotel, Rumi Punku
4* Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol, Casa Andina Premium or Novotel Hotels

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

Today’s adventure starts with a tour to the Sacred Valley at 7:00 a.m. Our first stop will be at the handicraft market of Pisaq to buy some souvenirs made by the locals; this colorful market fills the town of Pisaq and is a must for the photographer. Travel a short distance to the archaeological site of Pisaq. Your guide will give you an insightful tour, and you will visit the most important sectors of the site. See the religious sector, the temples, the urban sector, the Inca cemetery, and finally, the agricultural terraces. Take in the spectacular views from the site of the town and the valley below.

Travel further into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing through some typical towns such as Coya, Calca, and Yucay before arriving at the capital of the Sacred Valley of the Incas: Urubamba. Here we will enjoy our lunch, a treat of typical dishes of the Cusco region. Have your choice of many restaurants; ask your guide for advice.

After lunch, visit the salt mines, close to the town of Maras. Here you will see thousands of salt pans carved into the mountainside. Later visit Moray, the fascinating agricultural experimental center for the Incas. Continue for 40 minutes to the town of Ollantaytambo. Here you will find a town that remains in its original splendor from the time of the Incas, have the opportunity to visit the Inca fortress that was built by General Ollantay; see the religious, military and urban sectors; the temple of the sun; ceremonial fountains; colcas, or barns (food storage); etc. After the guided tour in Ollantaytambo, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Relax in this ancient Inca town and prepare for your next day’s adventure to Machu Picchu.

  • Accommodation:

2* Hotel: Tunupa Lodge, Sol Miranda or Similar
3* Hotel: Pakaritampu Hotel, El Albergue or similar

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch

The day starts with an early train ride from the Ollantaytambo station. Take the train at 6:10 am to Km 104; from here the trek begins with a walk to the main checkpoint for registration (you must bring your original passport for this checkpoint). At the start of the trail, the elevation is 2,150 m / 7,052 ft; visit the first Inca site, Chachabamba, see beautiful temples, the main patio, sacred rock, etc.

The highlight of the day is reaching the impressive ruin of Winay Wayna, translated to “forever young,” and it’s often called the smaller version of Machu Picchu; it’s one of the most well-preserved Inca archaeological sites. Enjoy the views of the surrounding mountain and the beauty of the area. After the tour of this spectacular site, we will eat our picnic lunch, rest, and continue on for the rest of our hike.

The final stretch leads us to the Sun Gate, where you catch your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. You will have time to get great snapshots from the Sun Gate. Continue walking to the viewpoint above Machu Picchu. Enjoy the views and take more pictures. Later in the afternoon is the perfect time to view Machu Picchu as there are fewer people.

The day ends with a descent to Aguas Calientes town, where we’ll stay at a cozy hotel and have dinner with your travel group and have a well-earned rest.

  • Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
  • Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours.
  • Lowest elevation: 2,150 m / 7,052 ft.
  • Highest elevation: 2,650 m / 8,692 ft.
  • Physical rating: Moderate.
  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Tara Hotel, Gringo Bills, or Ferre.
4* Hotel: Tierra Viva Aguas Calientes, Hatun Inti Boutique, or El Mapi

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel), Box Lunch, Dinner

Have a great breakfast at the hotel to prepare for a full morning exploration of Machu Picchu on a private tour with your guide. Leaving the hotel, take the bus up to the gate of Machu Picchu. Arriving at the ancient citadel in the soft morning light is a magical experience; see the mist rising from the valley and the stone ruins glowing in the sun. With a knowledgeable guide, explore the highlights of this world heritage site. Explore the most important sectors. See the Royal Tombs, the Temple of the Mirror, the residential areas, the main plaza, the sacred stone, and the famous temples of the Sun and Condor. Each structure reveals incredible Inca engineering and spiritual significance, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes.

After a great tour in Machu Picchu, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll have lunch (not included). In the afternoon we’ll take the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo train station or Poroy train station. Our driver will be waiting for you to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Hacienda Hotel, Maytaq Wasin Hotel, or Rumi Punku.
4* Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol, Casa Andina Premium or Novotel Hotels

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

Note: Huaynapicchu Mountain is available at 10 am, and it will be after the guided tour; please secure your ticket at the booking time. If Wayna Picchu permits are not available for your dates, climb Machu Picchu Mountain instead

Today you are free to explore the cradle of the Inca Empire at your leisure; you can also opt for cooking or chocolate classes. Take time to explore the quaint streets of the historic center. Visit artisan shops, the local market, San Pedro, the oldest San Blas neighborhood, or simply enjoy good coffee and restaurants.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Hacienda Hotel, Maytaq Wasin Hotel, or Rumi Punku.
4* Hotel: Wyndham Costa del Sol, Casa Andina Premium or Novotel Hotels

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

An early start this morning traveling through the Andes for 3 hours to the town of Cusipata. On arrival, enjoy the wonderful mountain views before starting the walk to the top of Rainbow Mountain for about 1 1/2 hours. A slow pace is advised as the altitude is high, trekking through the Andean landscape to reach the colorful and spectacular peak. Learn how millions of years of mineral deposits shaped the colorful stripes of the Rainbow Mountain. Take many photos and the unmissable selfie with the mischievous llamas. If you are feeling energetic, walk further to the Red Valley. After the mountain experience, descend for 1 hour to the start of the trek, where our car will be waiting.

We return to Cusipata to join the main road and continue the trip to Puno; along the way, we visit the Raqchi temple, the temple of the god Wiracocha. Here there are large circular columns and deposits the Incas used for natural refrigeration to preserve food. The Raqchi area exudes positive energy that you will feel before continuing on to Puno. This is a drive of about 4 hours and a half through the highlands of Peru to reach our final destination, the city of Puno. Where we will spend the night at a comfortable hotel.

  • Hike start elevation: Llaqtoc 4,900 meters / 16,076 feet.
  • Walking distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles round trip
  • Pass Elevation: 5,100 meters / 16,732 feet.
  • Hike Difficulty: Difficult
  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Casa Andina Standard Puno or Tierra Viva Puno
4* Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Puno or Sonesta Puno Hotel

  • Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch

The tour begins at 7 am, and we will head to the port of Lake Titicaca. Take a motorized boat to our first stop at the floating islands of Uros. See small communities and families that live on islands made of totora reeds. See the way of life of the local people making their homes, boats, and artworks from the reeds. Experience the authentic lifestyle, a hidden side of Peru. A perfect experience for photography lovers, with unique landscapes, traditions, and meaningful moments waiting to be captured.

Later head out across Lake Titicaca to the Island of Taquile. On arrival we will walk up the stairs that feature impressive views of the lake. Visit the island and at lunchtime go to the home of a family and enjoy some of the local food. See the local handicrafts, and then our boat will then take us back to the Port of Puno. We will arrive at about 5 p.m. Transfer to your hotel and settle in for a cozy night.

  • Accommodation:

3* Hotel: Casa Andina Standard Puno or Tierra Viva Puno
4* Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Puno or Sonesta Puno Hotel

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch

After breakfast, we will pick you up and drive you to the airport in Juliaca for your flight to Lima.

  • Meals:

Breakfast (Hotel)

What’s Included in The Best of Peru in 13 Days?

Included

  • All Entrances to all attractions
  • Machu Picchu Tickets
  • All ground transportation and transfers
  • Bilingual (English, Spanish) licensed guides
  • Meals as described in the itinerary
  • 3 nights in Lima,
  • 1 night in Huacachina,
  • 4 nights in Cusco,
  • 1 night in the Sacred Valley
  • 1 night in Aguas Calientes
  • 2 Nights in Puno

Not Included

  • Domestic and international airfare
  • Airport taxes
  • Travel insurance
  • Souvenirs, spa treatments or additional services such as laundry
  • Anything not stated in the itinerary

Extras

  • Meals – 50 usd for Lunch or Dinner
  • Optional train or hotel upgrades
  • Additional day tours in the Sacred Valley or Cusco
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
  • Machupicchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)

Best Prices for the Best of Peru in 13 Days

ACCOMMODATION Double Single
3* Hotels $2550 USD Per person US$3050 Per Person
4* Hotels $3090 USD Per person US$4,099 Per Person

Cost without hotels (You can book them on your own.)
$1995 USD Per person

Discounts:

  • $50 USD off per person Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17 years old or younger. For those using a University Student Card or under 17 years old, we need to see a copy of their student card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.
  • $80 USD off per person. For kids under 11 years old, this discount will be applied by default. Send a passport copy at the booking time.

Please send all information to info@waynatrekkers.com

Add-ons:

  • Meals – 50 usd for Lunch or Dinner
  • Optional train or hotel upgrades
  • Additional day tours in the Sacred Valley or Cusco
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
  • Machupicchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)

What to take in your backpack on Tours

  • Original passport (it is compulsory to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • An extra small backpack or small carry-on to send to Aguas Calientes (larger suitcases are not allowed on the train)
  • Thermal clothing: jackets, pants, hats, and gloves.
  • Clothes made with materials like linen or cotton, which will allow air to circulate better than synthetic fabrics.
  • Convertible pants: These can be adjusted for different weather conditions.
  • Water storage: 2-3 liters.
  • Shoes with good insulation or ones that cover your ankles
  • Wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
  • Waterproof jacket or poncho for the rainy season
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent (15%–30% deets)
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
  • Any necessary personal medications
  • Cameras, chargers, extra cables, power banks
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips.
  • Swimsuit for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional)

Good to Know Before Your 13-Day Peru Adventure.

Booking

We need you to fill out a booking form, which includes everything needed for the trip. Our system will ask you for $500 USD deposit per person for booking (all payments are subject to a 5.5% transaction fee). If you are more than 2 hikers, you can pay separately. Once we receive your deposit, we go ahead with your permits and will send a formal confirmation to your email.

Arrival

You will be picked up by one of our team members and be driven to your hotel. For this complimentary service, ensure you send your flight details at least two weeks in advance. You have to exit the airport or bus terminal; your driver cannot enter inside.

Acclimatization to the altitude:

High altitude starts to have an effect on our bodies from between 1,500 m and 2,000 m (4,921 ft – 6,561 ft) when our bodies start to react differently to make up for the changes in oxygen levels. As you get higher, the air gets thinner, so with every breath there is less oxygen for your body. Your body gradually adapts to getting less oxygen—you breathe faster and deeper, and the body produces more red blood cells. This takes time, so this is why if you go from low to high altitude too quickly, you may feel symptoms of altitude sickness until your body acclimatizes.

The Cusco region is generally set at very high elevations. The city of Cusco stands at a staggering 3,399 m / 11,152 ft. However, people react differently to altitude sickness, and it can present itself in a variety of symptoms. Common symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, poor appetite, dizziness, and disturbed sleep and, in extreme cases, loss of oxygen.

There are numbers of ways to deal with altitude sickness. Firstly, you need to acclimate by spending a few days in the Sacred Valley or Cusco. The body does adjust to the thin air; it just needs time. There are a number of day tours you can participate in before your trip that don’t require much exertion. Secondly, get lots of sleep, relax, and take it easy. Another option is to watch what you consume; try to avoid alcohol and drugs and also drink lots of water and coca tea. Keep your meals light and high in calories with lots of carbs. Lastly, we recommend visiting your doctor before traveling to Peru and asking for recommendations for medication that can help with altitude sickness.
These are the recommended remedies for altitude sickness: WATER, COCA TEA, and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED.

Luggage.

We offer a free secure luggage store while touring with us. Please advise prior to your arrival how big they are.

How do I pay my remaining balance?

You can pay the rest of your bill upon arrival with a card or cash if you want to avoid any extra high credit card fees. Our representative will show you the invoice confirmed at the booking time. Otherwise, you can pay through PayPal or Visa, but you have to pay a 5.5% service fee charged by VISA and PayPal.