Experience the real Peru with our Authentic Peru Travel Packages, an immersive journey blending vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. This unforgettable adventure takes you from the colonial streets of Lima to the wildlife-rich Amazon in Tambopata, the mysterious Nazca coast with Ballestas Islands and Huacachina dunes, and deep into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Hike the legendary Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, marvel at the colorful heights of Rainbow Mountain, and sail the sacred waters of Lake Titicaca.

Perfect for curious and active travelers, this all-in-one itinerary offers guided city explorations, wildlife encounters, ancient citadels, and high-altitude treks. You'll meet local communities, discover hidden gems, and connect with Peru's heart and soul in the most authentic way. Whether you're hiking, paddling, or strolling through markets, every step of this trip reveals a new side of Peru's timeless beauty.

Authentic Peru Travel Packages: A Journey Through Nature, Culture & Adventure

Discover the heart of Peru with this all-encompassing adventure that blends iconic landmarks with authentic local experiences. From the vibrant streets of Lima to the wildlife of Tambopata in the Amazon, every moment offers a unique connection to Peru’s natural and cultural treasures. Explore the stunning Ballestas Islands, sandboard in Huacachina, and uncover ancient secrets in the Sacred Valley.

Hike the legendary Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, take in the vivid colors of Rainbow Mountain, and sail the sacred waters of Lake Titicaca. This journey is perfect for travelers who crave both adventure and cultural depth. With expert guides and handpicked experiences, you’ll go beyond the tourist trail to experience the true spirit of Peru.

Tour at a Glance

  Duration: 18 Days / 17 Nights

  Start/End: Lima – Juliaca (Lake Titicaca)

  Tour Style: Cultural Discovery & Active Adventure

  Group Size: Small groups (max 12 travelers)

  Difficulty: Moderate (includes 4-day Inca Trail trek & high-altitude hikes)

  Availability: Year-round (best months: April to October)

  Accommodation: Handpicked hotels, eco-lodges, and camping on the Inca Trail

  Key Destinations: Lima, Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, Tambopata Amazon, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Lake Titicaca

Tour Highlights

  Discover Lima’s rich colonial history and vibrant city life

  Spot sea lions and marine birds on a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands

  Ride dune buggies and sandboard on the golden dunes of Huacachina

  Immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest on a 4-day Tambopata jungle adventure

  Explore ancient Inca sites and colorful markets in the Sacred Valley

  Hike the legendary 4-day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

  Witness the colorful layers of Rainbow Mountain and the serenity of the Red Valley

  Sail to the floating Uros Islands and Taquile on Lake Titicaca for a unique cultural encounter

What You’ll Experience

This unforgettable journey through Peru immerses you in the country’s most iconic landscapes and cultures. You’ll stroll through Lima’s historic streets, marvel at marine wildlife in the Ballestas Islands, and feel the thrill of riding across the Huacachina desert dunes. Deep in the Amazon, Tambopata offers a rich wildlife experience, where macaws, monkeys, and lush jungle trails await.

In the Andes, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Incas on the legendary 4-day Classic Inca Trail, culminating with your first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. You’ll also explore the Sacred Valley’s ancient ruins and colorful villages, hike to the stunning Rainbow Mountain, and sail the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca, meeting local communities living on floating reed islands. It’s a perfect blend of nature, history, adventure, and culture.

Day 01: Welcome to Peru

¡Bienvenidos a Perú!
Upon your arrival at Lima airport, our friendly team will greet you and provide a smooth private transfer to your hotel. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your first glimpses of Peru’s vibrant culture and landscapes. We’ll ensure a stress-free start to your unforgettable adventure in the land of the Incas.

  • Accomodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or Similar
  • Meals: None
  • Tickets: NA
Day 02: Peruvian Cooking Class & Lima City Tour

Your day begins at 8:30 AM with a pickup by your local guide. Start with a visit to a lively local market in Surquillo, where you’ll explore colorful stalls, taste seasonal fruits, and choose fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Then, head to a cozy kitchen in Miraflores, where a local chef will guide you through the preparation of a traditional Peruvian starter and main dish, plus a tasting of native potatoes and exotic fruits. Afterward, sit down to enjoy the delicious lunch you helped create.

In the afternoon, step back in time as you explore Lima’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit iconic landmarks like Plaza San Martín, Jirón de la Unión, and Plaza Mayor, home to the Government Palace and Cathedral. The tour ends with a guided visit to the San Francisco Monastery, famous for its baroque architecture and mysterious catacombs. A perfect blend of flavor and history in the heart of Peru’s capital.

  • Accomodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - lunch
  • Tickets: Included
Day 03: Paracas & Huacachina Full-Day Adventure from Lima

Pick-up: 5:00 AM | Drop-off: 8:00 PM

Get ready for an unforgettable day trip that combines coastal wildlife, desert thrills, and Peruvian culture! We’ll pick you up early from your hotel in Lima to begin a scenic drive south to Paracas, where your adventure kicks off with a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Poor Man’s Galapagos.” Cruise past dramatic rock formations and spot sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and countless seabirds in their natural habitat.

After the marine tour, we continue to Huacachina, a surreal oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes. This is one of the few natural desert oases in South America and a true hidden gem. You’ll have time to relax by the lagoon and take in the stunning views before the adrenaline begins.

Hop into a dune buggy for an exhilarating ride over the sand dunes, followed by the chance to try sandboarding, an experience you won’t forget. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply soaking in the desert landscape, Huacachina offers something magical for every traveler.

We’ll then visit a local artisan vineyard, where you’ll learn about the traditional production of pisco and wine. Enjoy a guided tasting of these iconic Peruvian drinks and take some time for a delicious lunch made with regional ingredients (not included, but our guide will assist with the best local options).

After a day full of discovery, nature, and fun, we’ll begin our return journey to Lima, arriving around 8:00 PM.

  • Accomodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or Similar
  • Meals: Only breakfast
  • Tickets: Included
Day 04. Welcome to Puerto Maldonado – Gateway to the Amazon Rainforest!

Important: Please book your flight to arrive in Puerto Maldonado before 1:00 PM to ensure a smooth start to your jungle experience.

Upon arrival, our team will greet you at the airport and accompany you on a scenic journey deep into the jungle. Your adventure begins with a 68-kilometer transfer to our eco-lodge, 23 km by road and 45 km by boat along the Tambopata River.

As we leave civilization behind, you’ll witness the transformation from deforested areas to pristine virgin rainforest. The river journey itself is a highlight, offering the chance to spot native flora and fauna with the help of your expert naturalist guide. Keep your eyes peeled for tropical birds, monkeys, and perhaps even caimans along the banks. A box lunch will be served on board as you glide through the Amazon.

Upon arrival, settle into your comfortable eco-lodge accommodations. In the afternoon, your guide will lead you on a walk along forest trails lined with ancient Brazil nut trees. With luck, you may encounter brown capuchin monkeys, agoutis, trogons, toucans, and the dazzling blue morpho butterflies.

After a hearty buffet-style dinner, enjoy a fascinating slideshow presentation about the rainforest’s biodiversity. Then head out on a night walk to discover the Amazon after dark, a chance to hear the forest come alive and perhaps spot the world’s only nocturnal monkey species among other nighttime creatures.

  • Accomodation: Tambopata Ecolodge or Similar
  • Meals: Only breakfast
  • Tickets: Included
Day 05. Oxbow Lake Exploration & Night Caiman Search

After a delicious buffet breakfast, we’ll board our boat for a short ride and begin a guided hike through the forest to Condénado oxbow lake. Surrounded by lush vegetation, this tranquil lake is a prime location for birdwatching and spotting aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. We'll explore by canoe, silently gliding across the water while searching for herons, hoatzins, monkeys, and more.

As we continue along the trail, your guide will point out towering rainforest giants like the strangler fig and the majestic kapok tree, which soars above the canopy.

Returning to the Ecolodge, a tasty buffet lunch awaits. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you choose, take a walk along our private trail system, explore the gardens, cool off with a swim in the refreshing Gallocunca stream, or relax in a hammock on your private porch.

After dinner, your guide will present a fascinating talk about the caiman species native to Tambopata. Then we’ll set off on an exciting night boat ride, scanning the riverbanks in search of nocturnal creatures, while immersing ourselves in the mysterious symphony of the Amazon night.

  • Accomodation: Tambopata Ecolodge or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - lunch - dinner
  • Tickets: Included
Day 06. Lake Sachavacayoc & Deep Jungle Adventure

Today we journey deeper into the heart of the rainforest to explore the remote wetlands of Lake Sachavacayoc. After a short boat ride downriver, we’ll begin an adventurous hike along a long and captivating jungle trail, traversing streams and marshy terrain via raised wooden walkways and rustic bridges.

Along the way, your naturalist guide will introduce you to towering trees like capirona, strangler fig, palo santo, bamboo groves, and several species of Amazonian palms. This pristine habitat is alive with birdsong and rich in biodiversity.

Once at the lake, we’ll take a peaceful paddle canoe ride across its still waters, where you may spot black caimans, colorful birdlife, and, if luck is on our side, the elusive giant river otter or even the legendary green anaconda.

We’ll return via a different forest trail, keeping an eye out for capuchin and squirrel monkeys, as well as other hidden jungle wonders.

Back at the Ecolodge by late afternoon, unwind in a hammock or cool off with a dip in the Gallocunca stream. After a delicious buffet dinner, spend a relaxed evening socializing in the bar and lounge, sharing stories with fellow travelers and soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the Amazon.

  • Accomodation: Tambopata Ecolodge or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - lunch - dinner
  • Tickets: Included
Day 07: Farewell to the Rainforest & Journey to Cusco

Your Amazon adventure comes to a close with a serene early morning boat ride back to Puerto Maldonado for your flight. As the jungle awakens, this is one of the best times for wildlife observation, a final opportunity to spot birds, monkeys, and other creatures along the riverbanks.

Accompanied by your naturalist guide, you’ll enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river and the vibrant sights and sounds of the rainforest one last time. It’s a magical way to say goodbye to the Peruvian Amazon, a journey that will stay with you forever.

After your Amazon rainforest adventure, you’ll take a flight to Cusco. We recommend booking an afternoon flight around 1:00 or 2:00 p.m. for a smooth and relaxed connection.

Upon arrival in Cusco, our friendly driver will be waiting to welcome you to the historic capital of the Inca Empire and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to rest and begin adjusting to the altitude, as your next adventure in the Andes begins.

  • Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
  • Meals: Only breakfast
  • Tickets: Included
Day 08: Sacred Valley Exploration – Culture, History & Incan Legacy

Today begins with an 8:00 AM pickup from your hotel as we set off to explore the heart of the Sacred Valley. Our first stop is a local alpaca and llama farm, where you'll meet these friendly animals up close and see traditional Andean weaving techniques passed down through generations.

We then visit the Pisac archaeological site, perched on a mountainside with spectacular views of the valley. Your guide will share insights into the Inca architecture and agricultural terraces. Afterward, stroll through the vibrant Pisac market, full of colorful handicrafts, textiles, and local produce, a wonderful opportunity to experience Andean culture and do some authentic shopping.

Next, we enjoy a buffet lunch in Urubamba, offering a variety of fresh local dishes in a relaxing setting.

In the afternoon, we explore the majestic Ollantaytambo fortress, an impressive Inca stronghold that also serves as a living town. Wander its cobbled streets and marvel at its perfectly crafted stonework.

You’ll spend the night in Ollantaytambo, a picturesque village known as the last living Inca town, an ideal spot to rest and prepare for your Inca Trail adventure beginning the next morning.

  • Accomodation: Sol Natura or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch
  • Tickets: Included
Day 09: Start Classic Inca Trail 

Your Inca Trail adventure officially begins today! We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo at 6:30 AM and take a short scenic drive to Km 82, the official starting point of the trail. Here, we’ll meet our trekking team, complete the check-in at the control point, and get ready for the journey ahead.

The hike begins with a gentle ascent through stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley, passing small Andean villages and ancient ruins along the way. After a few hours of hiking, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch prepared by our trekking chef, giving you time to relax and recharge.

In the afternoon, we continue toward our first campsite at Wayllabamba, arriving around 4:00 PM. Today’s hike covers approximately 12 kilometers and is considered moderate, making it a perfect warm-up and acclimatization day for the days to come.

Settle into camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and take in the peaceful mountain surroundings, tomorrow, the real challenge begins!

  • Accomodation: Camping in Tent.
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch - dinner
  • Tickets: Included
Day 10: Challenge Day – Wayllabamba to Pacaymayu via Dead Woman’s Pass

A wake-up call with hot coca tea at 5:00 AM sets the tone for a day of adventure. After a nutritious breakfast, we begin our uphill hike from Wayllabamba through dense cloud forest and into the highland puna grasslands. The trail gradually steepens as we make our way toward Lulluchapampa, a beautiful spot nestled at 3,800 meters where we’ll stop to enjoy a well-deserved lunch with mountain views.

After lunch, the real challenge begins,  a steady climb up to the famous Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), the highest point on the Inca Trail at 4,215 meters (13,828 ft). Reaching the summit is a moment of triumph, rewarded by breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks.

From the pass, we descend into the Pacaymayu Valley, where we set up camp around 4:00 PM. Today’s hike covers approximately 11 kilometers and is considered the most physically demanding day of the trek, but also one of the most memorable.

Recharge, relax, and enjoy dinner under a clear Andean sky.

  • Accomodation: Camping in Tent.
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch - dinner
  • Tickets: Included
Day 11:  Into the Cloud Forest – Pacaymayu to Wiñayhuayna

Today is the longest but most beautiful day of the Classic Inca Trail. After an early breakfast, we begin our hike with an uphill climb to the Runkurakay Pass (3,950 meters / 12,959 ft). Along the way, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in the environment as we enter the high jungle, a mystical cloud forest full of vibrant orchids, hummingbirds, lush ferns, and warmer temperatures.

We’ll visit the impressive Runkurakay and Sayacmarca archaeological sites, both perched in spectacular locations and offering insight into Inca engineering and their sacred path to Machu Picchu. After exploring these hidden gems, we continue to Phuyupatamarka (“the place above the clouds”), where we’ll stop for lunch with panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley.

From here, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking, on clear days, you’ll catch your first glimpses of Machu Picchu Mountain, Aguas Calientes village, and the final stretch of your pilgrimage. The afternoon descent takes us down a series of well-preserved Inca steps through lush vegetation and misty cliffs.

We arrive at our final campsite, Wiñayhuayna, in the late afternoon. This beautiful site is near one of the most impressive Inca ruins on the trail, which you can explore before dinner. Rest well,  tomorrow, you’ll reach the grand finale: Machu Picchu.

  • Accomodation: Camping in Tent.
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch - dinner
  • Tickets: Included
Day 12: The Grand Finale – Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco

Today is the highlight of your journey – the long-awaited visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

We begin the day very early, with a 3:30 a.m. wake-up call and a light breakfast. After packing up, we head to the Wiñayhuayna checkpoint, which opens at 5:30 a.m. From here, we hike for about 1 hour to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original entrance to Machu Picchu during Inca times. If the skies are clear, you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise illuminating the majestic citadel below.

After soaking in this unforgettable view, we continue our descent for approximately 1 more hour to the Machu Picchu main entrance. From here, your guide will lead a 2-hour tour of Circuit 3, exploring the heart of the citadel, including temples, plazas, terraces, and sacred sites.

If you've pre-booked Huayna Picchu Mountain (limited permits available, $75 USD), your hike will begin around 10:00 a.m. This optional climb takes around 2 hours round trip, offering dramatic panoramic views over Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys.

Once your visit is complete, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch (not included) and relax before your train.

We usually board the Expedition Train at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., heading to Ollantaytambo, where our private driver will be waiting to bring you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 – 8:00 p.m.

It’s the perfect end to your unforgettable Inca Trail adventure.

  • Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
  • Meals: Only breakfast
  • Tickets: Included
Day 13. Free Day in Cusco – Recharge and Explore

After completing the unforgettable Inca Trail, today is the perfect day to relax and recover your energy. Treat yourself to a soothing massage, enjoy a leisurely walk through Cusco’s charming streets, or savor a delicious local meal. This restful pause will leave you refreshed and ready to continue your adventure through Peru.

  • Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
  • Meals: Only breakfast
  • Tickets: NA
Day 14. Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Hike.

Your day begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. We’ll drive for about 3 hours through stunning Andean landscapes, passing traditional villages, valleys, and herds of alpacas. A light breakfast awaits in a local community before we reach the trailhead at 4,600 meters.

The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, ascending gradually with breathtaking scenery all around. At the summit (5,200 meters), you'll be rewarded with unforgettable views of Vinicunca’s vibrant stripes and the towering snow-capped peaks nearby. Take time to rest, explore, and capture the perfect photo.

From there, we continue to the Red Valley, one of the hidden gems of the region. This peaceful and less-visited trail showcases dramatic crimson hills and surreal landscapes, offering a deeper connection to the Andes.

After descending, we return to the community for a delicious local lunch. Our journey back to Cusco ends around 4:30 to 5:00 PM, tired but filled with amazing memories.

  • Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch
  • Tickets: Included
Day 15: Journey to Puno – The Sun Route

We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 6:20 AM and transfer you to the bus station, where your scenic journey to Puno begins. This route, known as the Ruta del Sol (Sun Route), is filled with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Along the way, you'll visit some of the most fascinating sites between Cusco and Puno. Discover the beautifully painted colonial church of Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.” Explore the impressive Inca temple of Raqchi, dedicated to Wiracocha, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Sicuani. Afterward, visit the Pukara Museum, known for its pre-Incan artifacts and iconic ceramic bulls.

You'll arrive in Puno around 5:00 PM, where our team will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, we’ll do a short briefing to prepare you for your Lake Titicaca adventure the following day.

  • Accomodation: Tierra Viva Puno or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch
  • Tickets: Included
Day 16. Lake Titicaca – Uros & Amantani Islands & overnight with local Family

Pick-up from your hotel will be between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., followed by a transfer to the port of Puno. From there, you'll board a boat across the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca to your first stop: the floating Uros Islands. These remarkable islands, built entirely from totora reeds, are home to the Uros people. You’ll have time to explore, interact with locals, and learn about their unique way of life.

Afterward, continue by boat to Amantani Island, where you’ll be welcomed by a local Quechua-speaking family for an unforgettable homestay experience. While the accommodation is simple, the hospitality is heartwarming. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike up to the Temple of Pachatata to take in a spectacular sunset over the lake. In the evening, join a traditional cultural gathering with music and dance, a memorable opportunity to connect with the island's vibrant community spirit.

  • Accomodation: Ovenight with a local family
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch - dinner
  • Tickets: Included
Day 17: Taquile Island & Return to Puno

After an early breakfast with your host family on Amantani, you’ll say goodbye and board the boat to Taquile Island, famous for its UNESCO-recognized textile art and strong sense of community. As you walk through the terraced hillsides, you’ll learn about the island’s unique social traditions and sustainable way of life.

Enjoy a delicious lunch with stunning lake views, featuring local ingredients and flavors. After lunch, we return to Puno by boat, arriving around 3:30 p.m. You’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to relax, explore the town, or reflect on your unforgettable experience on the lake.

  • Accomodation: Tierra Viva Puno or Similar
  • Meals: breakfast - Lunch
  • Tickets: Included
Day 18: Goodbye & Transfer to Juliaca Airport

After an unforgettable journey through the Andes and Lake Titicaca, it’s time to say goodbye. We will pick you up from your hotel in Puno and transfer you to Juliaca Airport, approximately 1.5 hours away, in time for your flight.

Thank you for traveling with Champions Peru Travel, we hope to see you again on your next Peruvian adventure!

  • Accomodation: None
  • Meals: Only breakfast
  • Tickets: NA