Peru Mistico Package 12D 11N – Adventure in Cusco, Lima and the Jungle

Day 1: Reception and welcome in Lima Arrival at Jorge Chávez Airport – transfer to your hotel. Lima city tour option if arriving in the morning.

Day 2: Full-day Paracas – Ica tour Paracas and Ballestas Islands tour with marine wildlife observation. Ica tour: Visit to the vineyards, the desert, and Huacachina. Return to Lima in the afternoon, approximately 10:00 p.m.

Day 3: From the coast to the Andes: Flight from Lima to Cusco Flight to Cusco. Free afternoon to acclimatize and explore the city. Visit to the Cusco Native Art Center – typical Cusco dances.

Day 4: City tour of Cusco and its surroundings. We will visit Coricancha, the main and most sacred Inca temple. On this day, you will visit Saqsaihuman, an Inca megalithic work. We will visit an animal sanctuary for alpacas and llamas, where we will interact with them, and you will also meet the Andean condor.

Day 5: Tour to Chinchero + Maras Salt Mines + Ollantaytambo. Alpaca wool weaving experience in Chinchero. Typical buffet lunch. One night in a hotel in the magical town of Ollantaytambo.

Day 6: Train ride + Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders. Train ride from Ollanta to Aguas Calientes. Visit Machu Picchu with your private guide. Return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Day 7: Tour to Humantay Lagoon. Excursion to Humantay Lagoon with trekking. Viewing of lagoons and glaciers. Return to Cusco in the afternoon.

Day 8: Free day to explore the city of Cusco. This day you can enjoy delicious cuisine and explore the city of Cusco.

Day 9: Rainbow Mountain Tour – Vinicunca Excursion to Rainbow Mountain with trekking View of Rainbow Mountains and glaciers Return to Cusco in the afternoon

Day 10: Route of the Sun (Cusco to Puno) Tour of the Uros Floating Islands Tour to Sillustani Free time in Puno

Day 11: Tour of the Uros Floating Islands and Sillustani in Puno Tour to the Santa Catalina Monastery Yanahuara Square Arequipa Cathedral We will visit the Cloister of the Company and the Tristán del Pozo mansion.

Day 12: Transfer from your hotel to the airport in Cusco. We will return home with the most memorable memories.

Day 1: Reception and Welcome to Lima, Peru

Welcome to Peru! Your plane will arrive in Lima, and we will be happy to assist you upon arrival. After passing through security, a member of our team will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Lima. Our check-in time is approximately 2:00 PM. One night’s accommodation in Lima. If your flight arrives in the morning, don’t worry, you have the option of taking a city tour!

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of Paracas – Ica // Vineyards + Bougies and Sandboarding

After a restful night to recharge, at 5:00 AM we head south toward Paracas. Here we head to the dock to board the boats for the tour to the Ballestas Islands, where we will observe marine fauna, including Humboldt penguins, guano birds, sea lions, and many birds. We return to the port after a rest and continue the journey to Ica, a city famous for exporting high-quality grapes used to make wines and Piscos. Here, you will enjoy a delicious lunch (not included). At the vineyards, where the famous Pisco, considered Peru’s national drink, is produced, we will observe the production process and also taste these drinks. Later, we will continue our adventure to the famous Huacachina Oasis, a unique oasis in Peru. At this same location, we will board the boguéis (sand wagons) for an adrenaline-filled ride through the desert, cruising the dunes. During this activity, we will stop to practice sandboarding, sliding down the dunes on the boards. Later, we will return to the boguéis to return to Huacachina. At 6:30 pm, we will prepare for the return trip to Lima. The return trip time is 4 hours and 30 minutes. This concludes our adventure in Lima.

Day 3: From the Coast to the Andes: Flights from Lima to Cusco

After enjoying the Peruvian coast, it’s time to explore Cusco. We’ll get ready early for breakfast, and later our transportation will transfer you from your hotel to the Lima airport. It’s very important to be at the airport three hours early. After a 1-hour and 25-minute flight, we’ll land at the Alejandro Velasco Astete – Cusco Airport. Welcome to the historic capital of Peru! You’ve arrived in the historic capital of the Inca Empire, a place full of culture, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy its cobblestone streets, exquisite cuisine, and the warmth of its people. Our staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Along the way, they will give you tips and advice on how to deal with altitude sickness. This afternoon is free to acclimatize and rest. Later, we recommend visiting the Qosqo Native American Art Center to observe typical dances from Cusco.

Day 4: Getting to Know Cusco: City Tour + Abode of the Gods

Our activity begins with pickup from your accommodation for our first stop, Coricancha. This temple was the most important religious and astronomical center of the Tawantinsuyu. Its walls were covered in gold leaf in honor of the god Inti (the Sun). With the arrival of the Spanish, the Convent of Santo Domingo was built over its structure, but the impressive Inca foundations can still be seen, demonstrating the Inca’s architectural mastery. Continuing the tour, we visit Sacsayhuamán, the most impressive constructions of the Inca Empire, located in Cusco, Peru. It is believed that its construction began during the reign of Pachacútec in the 15th century and was completed by his successors. The architecture of this site is unique and enigmatic, with a great deal of mystery. Near this place, we will visit the Qenco archaeological site with its eucalyptus forest, where we will have a short photo session. Finally, we will visit the abode of the gods. This place is a place of connection with Andean culture, surrounded by nature and with impressive views. It is ideal for photo sessions and to learn more about the Inca worldview. Its underground passages are unique, and its theme is clearly based on Andean gods.

Day 5: Tour to Moray + Salt Mines + Chinchero

Early, around 8:00 a.m., we will begin our adventure to the salt mines, as at this time they are empty so we can enjoy the place and take the desired photographs. Later, we will head to Moray, an Inca agricultural laboratory. These two sites date back to the Inca period and were very important, one for obtaining salt and Moray as a laboratory for obtaining improved seeds for agriculture. Later, we will continue the program to visit the artisanal textile factories where they process alpa and vicuña wool into very fine garments, still preserving traditional Inca textiles, giving them their color with natural elements obtained from nature. This is undoubtedly a magical place. In the afternoon, we will return to Cusco to rest in our hotel room.

Day 6: Visiting the Best of Cusco

This day, we will pick up your hotel at 8:00 a.m. and enter the Sacred Valley of the Incas. En route, we will have an optional stop (Cochahuasi), a sanctuary for rescued animals. Here, you can observe Andean condors, which is the highlight. Continuing the tour, we will stop at the Taray viewpoint to contemplate the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, we will tour this Inca archaeological site, visit the terraces, water sources, the Inca cemetery of Taucanamarca, and climb to the highest viewpoint at 3,580 meters above sea level. Later, we will return to the town of Pisac, where we will visit the silversmith workshops and later head to Urubamba for our traditional buffet lunch. Finally we will visit Ollantaytambo, it is an archaeological site with a lot of mystery due to the type of architecture and the use of pink granite unique to this place. In this place we will finish the day’s activity, we will leave you at your hotel in Ollantaytambo so that later you can visit the square and contemplate the picturesque streets of this town.

Day 7: Fulfilling Your Dreams: Machu Picchu, One of the 7 Wonders of the World

The long-awaited moment has finally arrived. We wake up early, have breakfast at the hotel, and head straight to the train station to begin our adventure on a picturesque train with breathtaking views of valleys, mountains, and magical sites en route to Machu Picchu Town. Here, our guide will be waiting for you at the train station to escort you from there to the buses. After 30 minutes aboard the transport that will finally take us to Machu Picchu, we will disembark and finally arrive at the entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. You will have a private guided tour where you can discover the mysteries of this special place in the world, recharge your batteries, and visit viewpoints, temples, and the most important sites depending on the route you choose. After marveling at the beauty of this imposing human work, we will descend to Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo to enjoy free time, have lunch (not included), and rest before boarding the return train. At the scheduled time, we will take the return train to Ollantaytambo and then travel to Cusco in our private transportation. We will arrive in the afternoon to enjoy our hotel stay in Cusco.

Day 8: Humantay Lagoon Tour – A Natural Paradise in the Andes

We embark on an unforgettable adventure to Humantay Lagoon, a hidden gem in the Andes. This tour will take you to discover the turquoise waters of this impressive lagoon, surrounded by towering mountains and dreamy landscapes. Very early, around 4:30 am, we will pick you up from your hotel and drive for almost 2 hours to Mollepata to enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast. Then, we will continue for another hour to our starting point. Once ready to begin our hike, our transportation will drop you off at an altitude of approximately 3,900 meters above sea level (12,800 feet). Here, we will begin the ascent to Humantay Lagoon, located at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). This hike takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the highest point. It is a moderately difficult hike, but we assure you it will be completely worth it because upon arrival, you will discover the true treasure hidden in the mountains. If the trail becomes too difficult, you have the option of renting a horse to ascend to the lagoon (not included). After some free time, we will begin our descent for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The descent will be less intense, and we will be more than satisfied with having witnessed the beautiful turquoise waters of this enchanting lagoon. In Soraypampa, we will take the return transportation to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch to recharge our batteries and rest our legs. En route, we can visit an artisanal ice cream shop that will leave you feeling truly satisfied (optional). At the end, we’ll return to Cusco in our private transportation, following the same route as the morning. Our tour will conclude around 6:00 p.m. after drop-off at your hotel.

Day 9: Tour to the Colorful Mountains with Majestic Glaciers // Rainbow Mountain Tour – Vinicunca

An exciting day awaits us, filled with landscapes, rivers, and colorful mountains. We’ll observe alpacas and llamas in their natural habitat, as well as meet local people who live in the mountains. Once in Cusipata, we’ll enjoy a delicious and energizing breakfast before continuing by car to Llacto, the starting point of our hike. After a 1-hour ride in our private transportation, we’ll descend to almost 4,600 meters above sea level. Before starting, our team will provide recommendations for our tour and provide you with walking sticks to use during the hike. From here to the viewpoint, we’ll enjoy the presence of alpacas, llamas, wildlife, local people, and, above all, the impressive distant view of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. For the classic photo, you must ascend to 5,036 meters (16,466 feet). The beauty of this place is unique, with its rainbow mountains, due to the different minerals found in its soil. At this point, we will stand atop the world-famous rainbow mountain. This will be a unique moment where we will have time to meditate and connect with nature, feel our heartbeats, and feel alive. Many say it resembles a scene from another planet, never seen before. Don’t worry about time; you will have plenty of space to take photographs and enjoy the peace at the top of the mountain. To conclude, in the afternoon, we will return to the starting point and enjoy a buffet lunch in the village to recharge our batteries. Once finished, satisfied and with our hearts full of having experienced the best of Cusco, we will return to your hotel, arriving at approximately 5:00 pm.

Day 10: Route of the Sun (Cusco – Puno)

Explore the Route of the Sun, a tour steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that follows in the footsteps of the mythical early Incas. Andahuaylillas Sistine Chapel – A colonial church with stunning frescoes and Baroque decor. Raqchi – Temple of Wiracocha – An imposing Inca complex with stone and adobe walls dedicated to the creator god. Buffet lunch in Sicuani – Enjoy typical Andean dishes. Abra La Raya (4,600 meters above sea level) – The highest point of the tour with spectacular views. Pukara – A pre-Incan archaeological site, the birthplace of the Pukara culture. Arrival in Puno, a city on the shores of Lake Titicaca, where the tour will conclude.

Day 11: Uros Floating Islands Tour and Sillustani

We begin the day by exploring two of Puno’s most fascinating destinations: the Uros Floating Islands and the Sillustani archaeological complex.
Uros Floating Islands Tour
We will board a boat to sail across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Our first stop will be the Uros Floating Islands, a group of artificial islands made of totora reeds, where its inhabitants maintain ancient traditions. We will learn about their lifestyle, their relationship with the lake, and their unique construction methods.
Return to Puno and Lunch
After visiting the Uros, we will return to the mainland to enjoy lunch in Puno.
Sillustani Tour
In the afternoon, we will head to Sillustani, an impressive archaeological complex located on the shores of Laguna Umayo. This site is famous for its chullpas, enormous funerary towers built by the Colla culture and later used by the Incas. These stone structures, which can reach up to 12 meters in height, were used to house the remains of the nobility. Free afternoon in Puno
Upon returning to Puno, you’ll have the afternoon free to stroll through the city, explore its markets, visit the Plaza de Armas, or simply relax on the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Day 12: Time to go home // Transportation will transfer you to the airport

Flattered after an extraordinary adventure, it’s time to say goodbye to Cusco. After breakfast, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time, according to your flight itinerary.

At GT Perú Travel, the included and excluded services are detailed in all tour itineraries listed on our website. We handle all logistics; we just ask that you pay attention to the details so you don’t miss anything. Some elements may vary for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
Included

• Airport pickups and transfers to and from Lima and Cusco.
• Hotel nights in Lima and Cusco.
• Depending on your international flight arrival time, a host will assist you with currency exchange, SIM card or data chip purchases, restaurant recommendations, and reservations.
• 10 hotel breakfasts per night.
• Tourist transportation and a local guide on each tour.
• Visit to a winery for wine and pisco tasting.
• Taxes and entrance fees to the Paracas Reserve and Huacachina Dunes
• Buggies or sand carts
• Sandboarding in Huacachina
• Flight from Lima – Cusco – Lima, + taxes + luggage 23kg + personal item 45cm x 35cm x 24cm (backpack)
• All entrance fees to required tourist sites.
• Transportation, guided tour, buffet lunch, entrance ticket to archaeological sites.
• Sacred Valley Tour + buffet lunch at a prestigious restaurant
• First-class Tourist Train ride from the Vistadome Observatory to Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes and return
• Round-trip CONSETTUR bus ticket
• Private guide to Machu Picchu
• Private transfer (Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco) for the visit to Machu Picchu
• Professional equipment such as trekking poles and thermal blankets for trekking routes.
• Trekking to Humantay Lake + breakfast + buffet lunch + entrance fee
• Trekking excursion to Rainbow Mountain + breakfast + buffet lunch + entrance fee
• Buffet lunch in Sicuani (during the Ruta del Sol).
• Airport transfer on the last day (Day 12).
  Not included
• Meals not specified
• Tips for our staff: Tipping is customary on any Machu Picchu excursion.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control.
• Early check-in – Late hotel check-out.
  Extra
• Red Valley $12 per person. A geological wonder near Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in Peru. It is characterized by impressive reddish mountain formations resulting from the oxidation of minerals. A popular destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
• Early check-in, only if your flight arrives early in the morning, $35 USD in 2- and 3-star hotels, subject to availability. Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley tour, private service only. Optional Free Day Extras in Cusco:
• Maras and Moray Tour (USD 25 PER PERSON) If you want to take advantage of your free day on the 7th day, you can take a half-day tour to visit the Inca agricultural laboratories of Moray and the impressive Maras Salt Mines.
• Sacred Valley Tour (USD 45 PER PERSON) If you want to take advantage of the day, you can take a full-day tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you will visit Pisac, with its incredible archaeological site and artisan market, and Urubamba, where you can enjoy an Andean buffet lunch. This tour will allow you to experience the beauty of the Andean landscapes and Inca history.
• South Valley Tour (USD 40 PER PERSON) If you prefer a less crowded but equally fascinating experience, you can explore the South Valley of Cusco on a half-day tour. You’ll visit Tipón, an impressive complex of Inca terraces and water channels; Pikillacta, an ancient pre-Inca city of the Wari culture; and Andahuaylillas, home to the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” famous for its colonial paintings.

Physical Challenge:

The hike to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon involves a steep path and a very early start. Prepare for a moderate physical challenge. Follow your guide’s advice on which foods are suitable and which are not. You can train in your hometown with a few short hikes at least two days a week.
Hiking and Exploring:

A full-day hike involves a lot of hiking and exploring; wear comfortable clothing, hats, and comfortable shoes, and enjoy a full-day adventure.
Packing Guide:

The clothing and equipment you’ll need depends on the tour and the time of year you travel. In general, we recommend packing light, comfortable clothing for the day, a jacket or sweater for cool evenings, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
Documentation:

Passport and Visa: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned departure date. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, and most of Europe, do not need a visa for tourist visits to Peru for up to 90 days. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any high-altitude trekking activities. It is not mandatory for this trip, but we STRONGLY recommend having it in case you need it. Please check the expiration date and restrictions carefully.
Vaccinations:

Consult with your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations before traveling to Peru, especially to high-altitude regions or the jungle, where the yellow fever vaccine is recommended.
Health Care

Altitude Concerns: Some parts of the itinerary exceed altitudes, which can be risky. Take precautions and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness; it is recommended to seek medical advice beforehand, especially if you have pre-existing conditions, heart problems, or are overweight. Be aware of altitude changes, especially during treks and stays at high altitudes. Follow the instructions provided regarding altitude sickness. If you feel it’s really severe, you can ask your doctor for some pills or simply drink coca tea—it always helps! Health Precautions: Follow the guide’s recommendations and let them know if you have any heart problems or experience cardiac arrest. It’s very important to report this so they can take appropriate precautions. Bring all necessary medications (consult your doctor), insect repellent, and a basic first aid kit.
Physical Preparation:

Some activities require physical fitness; make sure you’re adequately prepared for hikes, walks, and adventure activities. Don’t forget to hike before traveling to Peru; this will help you be better prepared.

Family-Friendly:

This tour offers various family-friendly activities. Some activities involve higher altitudes and physical demands, so it’s important to know your limits and not push yourself too hard. The Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lagoon activities are the most challenging. If you have difficulty walking, you can consider renting horses to get to the sites.
Appropriate Ages:

Many parts of the itinerary are family-friendly and welcome children of all ages. However, some activities, such as the Rainbow Mountain hike, involve moderate physical activity and may be more suitable for older children or those comfortable with hiking. Horses can be rented to assist you on the hike.
Food and Drink

Peruvian Dishes: Peru is famous for its varied and especially tasty cuisine. Be sure to try seafood dishes such as ceviche (raw fish marinated in lemon juice), lomo saltado (sautéed beef), and causa limeña (mashed potatoes). Try local dishes such as chiri uchú, the signature dish of Cusco cuisine. If you enjoy eating at street/fast food stalls or on the go, make sure they are always safe and hygienic, as a bad choice could ruin your trip.
Pisco Sour: A popular Peruvian cocktail made with pisco (grape brandy), lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters. It’s a must-try and perfectly reflects Peru’s culinary culture.
Altitude and Diet: At higher altitudes, you may be offered lighter meals, such as chicken soup, for the first few days. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options: While Peruvian cuisine is primarily based on meat and seafood, many places offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Inform your guides or restaurants in advance of any dietary restrictions or food allergies, and they will often accommodate your needs.

Culture:

Handicrafts: Every place has its own advantages. Remember to bring cash, preferably in Peruvian soles, to buy souvenirs. Many places now accept cards, but cash is the most effective payment method in places where there is no signal.
Machu Picchu “Classic View”: At Machu Picchu, we must keep in mind that Peru has two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Machu Picchu is located at the edge of the jungle at 2,500 meters above sea level. This can sometimes cause it to appear cloudy in the mornings, or during the rainy season, it could be covered in fog, but this rarely happens.
Tipping Culture: Tipping rules in Peru for tour guides, drivers, and other service providers are not fixed. We always recommend giving a personal thank you, but it is not mandatory; it depends on your willingness and satisfaction with them.
Climate:

Climate Variation: The climate can vary by region; Make sure you bring appropriate clothing for different climates, especially for different altitudes, such as the Rainbow Mountains, or the winter months of May, June, and July, which are the coldest in our region.
Seasons in Cusco: Cusco has two specific seasons: the rainy season (November to March) and the dry season (April to October). The dry season is the months of June, July, and August, which are the coldest months.
Communication

Language: In Peru, the official language is Spanish and Quechua, but in tourist destinations like Cusco, many people speak English because of their tourism jobs.
Connectivity: In cities like Lima and Cusco, you’ll find good internet connectivity. However, in more remote areas, such as the Andean region or while hiking, you should keep in mind that you won’t be connected to Wi-Fi or the internet. Expect limited or no internet access on some routes, such as the Rainbow Mountains.
What to Bring: Don’t forget to pack your essentials for this package. For Lima:

1. Light, cool clothing for the warm weather.
2. Comfortable shoes for walking around the city.
3. Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
4. A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
5. A camera or cell phone to capture moments.
6. A reusable water bottle.
7. A small backpack to carry your belongings during the day.
   For Ica – Paracas:
8. Light, comfortable clothing for the warm weather.
9. Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
10. Bandanas for sand protection.
11. Sunglasses and comfortable sandals.
12. A camera or cell phone to take photos of the coastal landscapes.
13. A reusable water bottle.
14. A small backpack to carry your belongings during the day.
    For Cusco:
15. Comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather.
16. Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
17. Sunscreen and sunglasses
18. Warm jacket
19. Rain poncho or umbrella
20. Camera or cell phone to take pictures of the historic city
21. Reusable water bottle
22. Small backpack to carry your belongings during the day
    For Machu Picchu:
23. Passport or ID
24. Comfortable, lightweight clothing for hiking
25. Sturdy hiking shoes
26. Hat or cap and sunscreen
27. Rain jacket or umbrella in case of rain
28. Reusable water bottle
29. Camera or cell phone to capture memories
30. Energy-boosting snacks
31. Small backpack to carry your belongings
32. Sunscreen
    For hiking in the Rainbow Mountains and Humantay Lagoon:
33. Layered clothing: In Cusco, temperatures can vary drastically, especially in the mountains. Bring breathable, lightweight clothing that you can add or remove depending on the weather.
34. Backpack: A comfortable one to carry your belongings.
35. Fully charged camera and cell phones.
36. Trekking boots: It is very important to wear appropriate footwear, preferably waterproof and with good grip.
37. Sun protection: The sun can be very strong, especially at high altitudes, so bring a high-factor sunscreen and a hat or cap.
38. Raincoat: The rainy season (November to March) can be unpredictable, so a raincoat or cape is essential.
39. Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the mountains and lagoon.
40. Bring water: The trails can be long, so make sure you bring enough water. There are refill options on some trails, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
41. Energy snacks: Nuts, cereal bars, and chocolate are excellent options to maintain your energy levels during the hike.
42. Avoid overeating before the hike: Eating a light meal will help you feel more comfortable while trekking.