Sacred Peruvian Sites: Lima, Cusco & Ica with Jeffrey & Lori
Your TourHero
Jeffrey Sullivan is an MLT MBA Prep Fellow from Durham, NC. He'll be attending UCLA Anderson in the Fall where he'll study entertainment, marketing and strategy. He's excited to embark upon this journey with you all.
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Jun 26 - Jul 3, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
15
Transportation
Van, plane, train
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21 - 40
Travel interest
Exploration, history & culture, hiking, food
Fellow Travelers
Vanessa
Jeffrey
Dana-Marie
Winkfield
Aleja 
Gabrielle
Imani
Mauricio
Isaiah
Mario
Patrick
SamuelYour Local Guide
With a passion for creating unique and customizable itineraries that highlight authentic experiences in Peru, the team at Peru InsideOut ensures that no two trips with them are ever the same. Their pioneering spirit takes visitors to dynamic and unforgettable places, offering insights into city life, history, wildlife and nature. With years of experience, local knowledge and training, every trip is a varied delight from start to finish. Let the knowledgeable guides from Peru InsideOut do all the hard work for you, so you can simply concentrate on the adventure of a lifetime.
Peru is an ancient landscape of historic empires, cultural intersections, and epic gastronomy, and on this eight-day exploration, you’ll see the country’s greatest hits! We’ll start in Lima, Peru’s bustling capital, to enjoy the food and learn about the city’s colonial history. From here, we’ll travel to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, to see parts of the Sacred Valley and, of course, hike to the famous ruins at Machu Picchu. Our last stop on this Peruvian adventure is in Ica where a desert oasis awaits! From culture and history to food and fun, this tour has it all, and it’s calling your name!
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure. However, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets, domestic flights, and train tickets are non-refundable.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a credit towards a future trip. You will receive a credit equivalent of your trip payment to be used anytime within the next 2 years from the date the credit note is issued. However, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets, domestic flights, and train tickets are non-refundable.
A full credit will also be issued if the tour is canceled due to COVID-19 travel restrictions (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Jeffrey Sullivan is an MLT MBA Prep Fellow from Durham, NC. He'll be attending UCLA Anderson in the Fall where he'll study entertainment, marketing and strategy. He's excited to embark upon this journey with you all.
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Jun 26 - Jul 3, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
15
Transportation
Van, plane, train
Peru is an ancient landscape of historic empires, cultural intersections, and epic gastronomy, and on this eight-day exploration, you’ll see the country’s greatest hits! We’ll start in Lima, Peru’s bustling capital, to enjoy the food and learn about the city’s colonial history. From here, we’ll travel to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, to see parts of the Sacred Valley and, of course, hike to the famous ruins at Machu Picchu. Our last stop on this Peruvian adventure is in Ica where a desert oasis awaits! From culture and history to food and fun, this tour has it all, and it’s calling your name!
Timeline
- Day 1 · Lima
- Arrive in Lima
- Transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check-in at Selina Miraflores (or similar according to availability)
- Brief meeting with tour leader
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Lima
- Breakfast
- Guided city tour
- Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Lima & Cusco
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer from accommodation to airport
- Fly from Lima to Cusco
- Tour the Maras salt mines and Moray terraces (lunch not included)
- Transfer to accommodation
- Check-in at Selina Cusco Saphi (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Machu Picchu & Cusco
- Breakfast
- Transfer from accommodation to train in Ollantaytambo
- Train ride to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (lunch not included)
- Train to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from train to accommodation
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · Pampachiri & Cusco
- Rainbow Mountain trek (breakfast & lunch included)
- Free time in Cusco
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 6 · Cusco & Ica
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer from accommodation to airport
- Fly from Cusco to Lima
- Transfer from Lima to Ica
- Check-in at Bananas Adventure Hostel Huacachina (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 7 · Ica & Lima
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Guided tour of Ica
- Free time for lunch & exploration (not included in price)
- Transfer from Ica to Lima
- Check-in at Selina Miraflores (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 8 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer from accommodation to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Lima – Peru’s capital and gateway to the country’s ancient past
We’re so glad you’re joining us in Lima, Peru’s capital city that boasts coastal beauty, unparalleled gastronomy, and expansive cultural delights. Upon arrival, hop in your transfer at the airport and make your way to the hotel. You’ll have the day to get settled, grab some food, and get your bearings. You might spend some time walking along the Miraflores Boardwalk that hugs the coastline, stopping at the charming restaurants and bars right on the water. You can also make your way to Larcomar – an indoor/outdoor shopping plaza with terraces and restaurants overlooking the ocean. Looking for history? Check out the Pachacamac ruins, walk through the historic city center, or simply head to the local shops for souvenirs. Your only obligation is to meet with your tour leader at the designated time to go over your itinerary for the rest of the week. Whatever you choose to fill your time, enjoy it all!
Day 2
Explore Lima’s history on a full-day city tour
Good morning, travelers! Today, embark on a full-day tour of Lima. We’ll start with a stroll through Miraflores, where we’ll make our way to Huaca Pucllana, an archaeological site in the heart of the city. After we explore the adobe and clay pyramid, we’ll travel to Colonial Lima in downtown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with views of the Government Palace, Plaza Mayor, San Martin Square, and cathedral. We'll continue on to the bohemian quarter of Barranco and the parque del amor. From here you’ll have the rest of the day and night to yourself to enjoy a group meal and the energy of the city. When the sun goes down, we highly recommend visiting Circuito Magico del Agua aka the Magic Water Circuit. This park features 13 fountains with music and light shows. This is the perfect spot to take pictures and let your inner child break free!
Day 3
Travel to Cusco and explore the Maras salt mines and the Moray terraces
Rise and shine to a day of adventure and fun! After breakfast, we’ll pack up and fly to Cusco, the former Inca capital filled with history and culture. We suggest booking the 11:10 am flight from Lima to ensure you land with enough time for the day’s adventures. (See add-ons below.) Upon arrival, we’ll journey to the town of Maras, known for its salt mines. Marvel at thousands of individual pools on the hillside, which are still used by the local population today. You’ll get to see the salt extracted as it was during the time of the Inca Empire! Next up, we’ll travel to Moray, an open-air agricultural laboratory used by the Inca to improve seeds for agricultural products. Circular in shape, there can be a temperature difference of up to four degrees between one terrace and the next due to the difference in sun exposure. After some free time for lunch, we’ll make our way back to the hotel and enjoy a free night in Cusco.
Day 4
Explore the iconic Machu Picchu citadel on a guided tour
Today is the day we’ve all been waiting for – a trip to Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast, we’ll make our way to this famed site by train and enjoy a guided tour of the Inca citadel, learning about its use and all the important landmarks on site. From here, you can explore on your own and grab lunch. At the predetermined time, you’ll head down to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, you‘ll be picked up and brought to your hotel in Cusco. After an unforgettable day and once-in-a-lifetime trip, enjoy a group dinner and reflect on all the joy you’ve shared.
Day 5
Trek to Rainbow Mountain and enjoy pristine views of the colorful landscape
After a restful sleep, wake up in Cusco and get ready for a day of adventure! At dawn, we’ll drive three hours to Pampachiri where we’ll start the trek up the iconic Rainbow Mountain trail. What may feel like a long journey will be completely worth it once you reach your destination and see the colors of these magical mountains! You’ll have time to explore and take all the pictures you can. From here, we’ll grab lunch and make our way back to Cusco, where you’ll have the rest of the afternoon and evening to explore the city. Head downtown and walk the cobblestone streets, enjoy a trip to the market for souvenirs and food, or make your way to Qorikancha for a look into the past. No matter what you choose, enjoy it to the fullest, as tomorrow we continue on our Peruvian journey.
Day 6
Travel to the ancient city of Ica and enjoy a free night to rest and relax
After breakfast, we’ll pack up and fly to Lima. We suggest booking the 1:40 pm flight from Cusco to ensure you land with enough time for the day’s adventures. (See add-ons below.) Upon arrival, we’ll take our transfer to Ica, a desert oasis that will captivate your soul. Here, you’ll have a free afternoon and evening to get settled and enjoy the views, the food, and the people.
Day 7
Discover Ica Huacachina, the village in the desert
Today we’ll experience a completely different side of Peru in Ica. We’ll visit local artisans and craftspeople, the perfect time to snag a unique souvenir or two! You’ll also be taken on a stroll through the region’s vineyards, where grape-based Pisco brandy is made. Here, learn about the blending process and try it for yourself. In the afternoon, you’ll be able to explore the amazing region of Huacachina, a village oasis in the desert. Housing around 100 locals, it sits in a vast bowl of sand dunes and is centered around a beautiful blue lagoon. Sand buggies and boards can be rented for a thrilling ride, or why not bathe in the sacred water? It’s believed to have magical healing powers! After some free time to explore at your own pace, we’ll head back to Lima and enjoy one last night in the city.
Day 8
Say goodbye to memorable experiences in Peru
It’s been an epic week in Peru, as we’ve seen the iconic ancient sites, explored hidden wonders in the desert, and enjoyed the history and culture of the country. Now, it’s time to say goodbye and start our journey home. After one final meal at the hotel, pack up and take your transfer to the airport. We hope you had a great trip and will travel with us again soon!
Accommodation
Selina Miraflores (or similar according to availability)
The Selina Miraflores is perfect for starting your Peruvian vacation with a bang! Situated close to music spots including the Vinyl Factory and Jazz Zone, you’ll be in an ideal place to explore Lima by day and by night. The groovy 1970s building includes community rooms for hanging out with your traveling chums, a restaurant, cocktail bar, coworking room and outdoor space. You’ll find live music most nights, and yoga lessons on-site - perfect for stretching those limbs before you hit the high mountains! Wi-Fi is available throughout. Room type: Private rooms; shared occupancy.
Selina Cusco Saphi (or similar according to availability)
Surrounded by Andean mountains, Selina Cusco Saphi radiates natural beauty and Incan culture. Complete with locally-curated artwork, the building features a plant garden, traditional Peruvian restaurant, and a cozy movie room. Enjoy an authentic breakfast each day to prepare you for your next adventure and rest your head soundly each night in private rooms with everything you need to enjoy your time in Peru. From yoga to group events, sink into the welcoming community vibes of this artsy accommodation in Cusco. Room type: Private rooms; shared occupancy.
Bananas Adventure Hostel Huacachina (or similar according to availability)
Bananas is the only adventure hostel in Huacachina and features two rooftop terraces, a bar, and swimming pool. This idyllic accommodation is surrounded by banana trees with hammocks making it a great setting for a siesta. There are countless eateries close by and an on-site restaurant for your convenience. You can hire sand buggies and boards here and be taken on a local tour by the hostel’s experienced local drivers. The dorms have bunk beds, lockers, fans and an ensuite bathroom, plus WiFi, and the facility also features private rooms with en suites for more privacy and comfort. Room type: Private rooms; shared occupancy.
Included
- 3 nights at Selina Miraflores (or similar)
- 3 nights at Selina Cusco Saphi (or similar)
- 1 night at Bananas Adventure Hostel Huacachina (or similar)
- Shared occupancy in accommodation
- All airport and activity transfers
- All breakfasts
- Lunch at Rainbow Mountain
- All guided tours with entrance fees as mentioned in itinerary
- Expert, English-speaking guide for all tours
Not included
- All flights
- All meals not mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses not stipulated
- Travel insurance
- Optional add-ons
- Gratuities
Available add-on
Round-trip domestic flights (Lima/Cusco)
Book your domestic, round-trip flights from Lima to Cusco. Your first flight will depart on June 28 from Lima at 11:10 am and land in Cusco at 12:35 pm. Your return flight will depart Cusco on July 1 at 1:40 pm and land in Lima at 3:10 pm.
Price: USD 260
14 spots left
Upgrade from hostels to hotels in all locations
Get out of the hostels and into upgraded hotels for all locations on this trip.
Price: USD 150
8 spots left
Sandboarding and buggy experience in Ica
During your time in Ica, enjoy a dune buggy ride through the sand dunes and try your hand at sandboarding.
Price: USD 35
9 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure. However, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets, domestic flights, and train tickets are non-refundable.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a credit towards a future trip. You will receive a credit equivalent of your trip payment to be used anytime within the next 2 years from the date the credit note is issued. However, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tickets, domestic flights, and train tickets are non-refundable.
A full credit will also be issued if the tour is canceled due to COVID-19 travel restrictions (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- During your time in the Sacred Valley, you will also have the chance to visit Moray, an incredible Inca site that consists of sprawling circular terraces built upon a natural depression. - Unsplash: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
- Said to have been an agricultural experimental station used to adapt crops to different temperatures, Moray is a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca culture. - Unsplash: Pedro Lastra
- Upgrade to hotels for the duration of your trip. - Unsplash: Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd.
- Lima's Plaza Mayor. - Wikimedia
- Come see why Barranco has earned itself the reputation of being Lima's coolest neighborhood. - The Tiny Travelogue
- Visit the magnificent Government Palace in Lima. - Jhordy Rojas
- Stroll down Lima's beautiful city streets and soak up the local vibe. - Adrian Dascal
- Coast and city are on your doorstep in Lima! - Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
- Start your adventure in fascinating Lima, Peru's largest city. - Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
- Trek to Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain — a once-in-a-lifetime vista on a once-in-a-lifetime trip! - Sebastian Baszczyj
- Learn about the Huaca Pucllana archeological site. - Pixabay: rdlncl
- Selina Cusco Saphi - Selina Cusco Saphi
- Hotel Selina Miraflores - Hotel Selina Miraflores
- Hotel Selina Miraflores - Hotel Selina Miraflores
- Selina Cusco Saphi - Selina Cusco Saphi
- Soak in the picturesque views of the ruins, the mountains, and the waterfalls cascading all around you. - Facebook
- The city of Cusco, ancient capital of the Inca Empire. - Peruvian Soul
- Head to the Main Square and check out the San Pedro Market and San Pedro Church. - Unsplash: Renny Gamarra
- No trip to Cusco is complete without a trip to Qorikancha. This historic church was built atop ancient Inca ruins that date back to 1438 and was created for the sun god El Inti. - Unsplash: Amauri Mejía
- Walk through the colorful streets and buy some handmade souvenirs along the way. - Unsplash: NINA PASCAL
- Grab a quick bite at the market or head to a traditional restaurant for an authentic Peruvian meal. - Unsplash: Ashim D’Silva
- Today is the day! We'll have a full day to explore Machu Picchu and learn about the ancient Inca civilization from our guide. - Unsplash: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
- Take all the pictures you can of this surreal landscape. - Unsplash: McKayla Crump
- Add-on: Dune buggy ride - Unsplash: WILLIAN REIS
- Add-on: Round-trip flights Lima-Cusco - Unsplash: Emanu
- We'll travel most of the day until we reach the unique city of Ica. - Unsplash: Alex Azabache
- After the sun goes down, head to Circuito Magico del Agua for a magical experience. - Facebook: Circuito Magico del Agua
- Play in the fountains. - Facebook: Circuito Magico del Agua
- Walk through the water archways. - Facebook: Circuito Magico del Agua
- Take all the pictures you can! - Facebook: Circuito Magico del Agua
- Head to Lima's historic downtown and explore its colonial past. - Unsplash: Jhordy Rojas
- Walk the Miraflores Boardwalk along the coastline. - Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/photos/lima-peru-paragliding-miraflores-1965785/
- Visit the Larcomar Mall for shopping, stellar food, and great views. - Facebook: Larcomar
- Optional add-on: Sandboarding - Unsplash: Tamara Bravo
- Today, explore the desert oasis of Huacachina. - Pixabay: EdwardQuispe
- We'll stop at the Maras salt mines to learn about their use and enjoy some incredible photo ops. - Unsplash: Alfredo Rates
- Maras salt terraces. - Unsplash: Zhifei Zhou