USA to Lima, Peru

We depart our home cities for Lima, Peru. Evening arrival and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in Lima.

Lima

Today, our tour of Lima invites you to step back in time as you explore the Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with architectural treasures and colonial charm. Begin your journey at the magnificent Santo Domingo Convent, built during Lima’s founding and once home to San Marcos University, the oldest university in the Americas. Walking through its halls feels like stepping into history — the country’s oldest chairs remain in the choir area, and its library of over 25,000 volumes, some dating back to the 15th century, is a national treasure. The convent also holds profound spiritual significance, housing the remains of San Martín de Porres, San Juan Masías, and Santa Rosa de Lima.  From there, cross the Main Plaza of Lima, surrounded by the Government Palace, Municipal Palace, and other historic landmarks, before arriving at the Lima Cathedral. This grand structure, rich with religious art and historic paintings, tells the story of Lima’s past through its remarkable collection. Our exploration continues at the Larco Museum, located about 30 minutes from the city center. Recognized by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards as one of the Top 25 Museums in the World, the Larco offers a fascinating journey through Peru’s ancient civilizations. Its galleries display exquisite gold and silver artifacts, intricate ceramics, and timeless artwork , while its vast warehouse reveals thousands of pottery pieces depicting the everyday life, beliefs, and artistry of ancient Peru. We will end our day with a welcome dinner at a Restaurant in Miraflores, where fine Peruvian cuisine is served beside the illuminated ruins of a pre-Inca pyramid—a truly unforgettable setting.

Lima to Ica

After breakfast, depart Lima for a scenic drive south along the Pan-American Highway to Ica, a journey of approximately 4.5 to 5 hours. Enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to the Huacachina Lagoon, a natural oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. Experience an exhilarating dune buggy ride across the golden desert, and for the adventurous, try sandboarding down the slopes. Check-in at your hotel. Dinner on own.

Optional Experience: Take a flight over the Nazca Lines, one of Peru’s greatest mysteries. From above, admire the vast desert drawings of the Monkey, Hummingbird, Condor, Dog, and Spider, along with views of the Ocucaje Valley and ancient cultural sites of Paracas and Nazca (800 BC – AD 700).

Paracas/Ballestas Islands to Lima 

Early this morning, embark on a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Little Galápagos” for their incredible wildlife. On the way, see El Candelabro (“The Chandelier”)—a massive geoglyph etched into the sand, reminiscent of the Nazca Lines. As you circle the islands, watch for sea lions, pelicans, Humboldt penguins, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. Afterward, enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant (set menu, beverages not included), before returning to Lima. Dinner on own. Overnight in Lima.

Lima to Cusco

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Park of Sacsayhuamán, a remarkable fortress built with massive stone blocks. Continue to Q’enqo, an ancient ceremonial site, and Tambomachay, the Inca’s sacred fountains of life and health, with a panoramic view of Puca Pucara along the way. Return to the city to explore the Temple of the Sun (Korikancha)—once covered in gold—and the Cusco Cathedral, home to exquisite colonial artwork. Enjoy a group dinner at Tunupa Restaurant Bar & Grill, located on the Main Square. Delight in a buffet of Novo-Andean cuisine, live music, and traditional dance performances overlooking the illuminated plaza.

NOTE: This evening we will pack a small bag for our journey to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. For all train journeys, each passenger is allowed 1 bag or backpack which must not exceed 5kg/11lbs and/or 157cm/62 inches (length + height + width). Baggage exceeding these measurements is not allowed. We ask that only the absolute necessities are packed, the rest of our luggage will be safely stored at our hotel in Cusco.

Cusco to Sacred Valley

Today, discover the beauty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Begin at the colorful Pisac Market, where you’ll have time to browse local handicrafts and perhaps sample a warm empanada or fresh bread from the traditional wood ovens. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to Ollantaytambo, a charming Inca town that has been continuously inhabited for centuries. Explore its impressive temple and fortress, once a stronghold of Inca resistance, and take in the breathtaking valley views—perfect for unforgettable photos. Overnight in the Sacred Valley.

Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu

This morning, transfer to the train station for a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes, gateway to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Upon arrival, our staff will assist you in boarding the bus that winds up the mountain to Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and surrounding canyon. Explore the magnificent Lost City of the Incas, with its terraces, temples, stairways, and sacred spaces that radiate an unmistakable sense of energy and mystery. After your guided tour, enjoy lunch at Café Inkaterra, an intimate riverside restaurant overlooking the Vilcanota River—the perfect place to relax and reflect after an unforgettable visit. Overnight in Machu Picchu. Dinner on own.

Machu Picchu to Cusco

Early in the morning, enjoy an optional second entrance to Machu Picchu for a more intimate experience of this sacred site. Explore the citadel at your own pace or join your guide for deeper insight into its hidden corners and meaning. After descending, return to Aguas Calientes for free time to enjoy lunch and shopping before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.

Optional Activity: For those taking the Huayna Picchu hike—the “Young Mountain” that rises behind the ruins—prepare for an unforgettable adventure. The climb reveals ancient terraces and sacred enclosures built on breathtaking cliffs, with panoramic views of Machu Picchu, the Vilcanota Canyon, and the surrounding peaks. Non Refundable tickets must be booked in advance.

Cuzco to Lima

Enjoy a free day in Cusco to explore at your own pace. Stroll through charming streets, shop for local handicrafts, alpaca textiles, or handmade chocolates, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. You’ll have access to your hotel room until it’s time for your transfer to the airport for our flight back to Lima, followed by your evening overnight flights to the U.S.

USA

Arrival in your home cities, filled with unforgettable memories of Peru and newfound friendships.

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To Book This Tour, Contact:

Carol Alegre, Tour Manager
Tel: (801) 483-6165
Email Carol

TOUR ID#9226H17

CASH DISCOUNT of $100.00 for final payment by check