Ultimate Cusco & Peru Tours is the perfect all-in-one journey for travelers seeking to explore the full diversity of Peru. From coastal cuisine and desert adventures to Andean wonders and ancient Inca sites, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of culture, nature, and history. Begin your trip in Lima with a guided city and culinary tour, then head south to marvel at the marine wildlife of Ballestas Islands, sandboard the dunes of Huacachina, and witness the mysterious Nazca Lines from the air.
Continue to Arequipa, the White City, and explore the dramatic landscapes of the Colca Canyon, home of the majestic Andean condor. Sail across the magical Lake Titicaca and visit the floating Uros Islands before heading to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. Discover the Sacred Valley’s ancient treasures, hike the thrilling Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and conquer the vibrant heights of Rainbow Mountain. The Ultimate Cusco & Peru Tours package is designed for curious travelers who want to fully immerse in the spirit, beauty, and flavors of Peru, from coast to jungle to highlands.
Discover the Heart of Peru: Ultimate Cusco & Peru Tours
Experience the very best of Peru on this unforgettable journey that takes you from coastal wonders to high Andean peaks. Begin in Lima with a blend of history and gastronomy, then travel south to see sea lions and penguins at the Ballestas Islands, race across the Huacachina dunes, and fly above the mysterious Nazca Lines. Continue to Arequipa and the breathtaking Colca Canyon before venturing to Lake Titicaca and its famous floating islands.
The adventure continues in Cusco, where you'll explore ancient streets, visit the Sacred Valley, and hike the Short Inca Trail to reach the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Cap off your journey with a colorful hike to Rainbow Mountain. This all-in-one tour blends culture, adventure, and natural beauty, perfect for travelers seeking a deep and authentic connection with Peru.
Tour at a Glance
Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Destinations: Lima, Paracas, Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno (Lake Titicaca), Cusco, Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain
Tour Type: Cultural, Nature & Adventure
Group Size: Small groups (Max 12 people)
Difficulty: Moderate (Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain require good physical condition)
Availability: All year round (best from April to November)
Starts/Ends: Lima to Cusco or vice versa
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, history buffs, and cultural explorers looking for a full Peru immersion
Highlights of the Tour
Discover Peru’s capital with a guided Lima city and culinary tour, blending colonial charm and modern flavors.
Cruise to the Ballestas Islands, known as the "Little Galápagos", and see sea lions, penguins, and marine birds.
Sandboard and ride dune buggies across the golden desert oasis of Huacachina.
Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines, enormous geoglyphs carved into the desert.
Explore the white-stone charm of Arequipa and the dramatic depths of Colca Canyon, home of the Andean condor.
Sail across Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating Uros Islands and Taquile’s living culture.
Walk the cobbled streets of Cusco, the Inca capital filled with vibrant history and architecture.
Enjoy a cultural and scenic journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, entering through the Sun Gate for a breathtaking first view.
Stand atop the colorful summit of Rainbow Mountain, a natural marvel of mineral-rich hues.
What You Will Experience
With Champions Peru Travel, you’ll experience the very best of Peru in one unforgettable journey. From the cosmopolitan flavors of Lima to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, the thrill of sandboarding in Huacachina, and the mystery of the Nazca Lines, every moment is crafted to inspire. Discover the colonial charm of Arequipa, gaze into the depths of the Colca Canyon, and connect with ancient cultures on the floating Uros Islands of Lake Titicaca.
In the heart of the Andes, walk the cobblestone streets of Cusco, explore the Sacred Valley, and hike a breathtaking stretch of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Top it all off with the surreal beauty of Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, enjoy seamless service, knowledgeable guides, and authentic cultural experiences that define Champions Peru Travel. This is more than a vacation, it's a rich, immersive adventure across Peru’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems.
Day 01: Welcome to Peru
¡Bienvenidos a Peru! Upon arrival at the Lima airport, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome and comfortable private transfer to your hotel. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your first glimpse of Peru’s vibrant landscapes and rich culture. Whether you're arriving from afar or just starting your journey, we’ll ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your unforgettable adventure. Get ready to explore ancient wonders, colorful markets, and the warm hospitality that makes Peru truly special.
- Accomodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or Similar
- Meals: None
- Tickets: NA
Day 02: Peruvian Cooking Class & Lima City Tour
Your culinary experience begins at 8:30 AM with pickup by your local guide. Start with a visit to a vibrant market in the Surquillo district, where you’ll explore colorful stalls and learn about Peru’s diverse ingredients and rich food culture. Taste seasonal fruits and help select fresh produce for your cooking class.
Next, head to a cozy kitchen in Miraflores for a hands-on session with a local chef. The class includes a native potato tasting, fruit sampling, and the preparation of one starter and one main dish, using the ingredients you picked out.
After the cooking is complete, you’ll sit down and enjoy the delicious lunch you’ve prepared, an authentic taste of Peru made by you!
Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, we’re happy to accommodate you!
Step back in time and discover Lima’s colonial charm on this guided tour through its Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about the city’s founding in 1535 and its rise as the “City of Kings,” the heart of the Spanish Viceroyalty in South America.
Visit key landmarks like Plaza San Martín, the elegant Gran Hotel Bolívar, and stroll down Jirón de la Unión, a street filled with history. At the Plaza Mayor, admire the Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, and Archbishop’s Palace, icons of Peru’s colonial past.
The highlight of the tour is the San Francisco Monastery, known for its baroque architecture and eerie catacombs, offering a fascinating glimpse into Lima’s religious and architectural heritage.
- Accomodation: Tierra Viva Miraflores or Similar
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Tickets: Included
Day 03: Lima to Nazca: Ballestas Islands, Pisco Tasting & Huacachina Adventure
05:00 AM – Our representative will pick you up from your hotel in Lima for an exciting journey south to Paracas, where your adventure begins.
08:30 AM – Upon arrival in Paracas, we’ll assist you in boarding a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, part of the Paracas National Reserve. This 2.5-hour excursion offers one of the best wildlife viewing experiences in Peru. From the boat, marvel at colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, Guanay cormorants, and other seabirds thriving in their natural habitat. Along the way, you'll also see the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph etched into the coastal hills.
11:00 AM – We continue our journey toward Ica, located about one hour from Paracas.
12:00 PM – Visit a local vineyard to learn about the traditional production of pisco and wine, including the sowing, harvesting, and fermentation process. Enjoy a guided tasting of several varieties of pisco and sweet wines that are famous in this region.
12:40 PM – After the tasting, we’ll stop at a local restaurant for lunch (not included). Your guide will assist you in ordering a delicious regional meal. Expect to pay around 35–45 soles ($10–$15 USD).
2:15 PM – We continue to Huacachina, a unique desert oasis village surrounded by giant sand dunes.
2:30 PM – Upon arrival, prepare for an adrenaline-pumping ride through the dunes in dune buggies, followed by an unforgettable sandboarding session. This thrilling experience combines adventure, stunning desert scenery, and plenty of fun, one of the highlights of the day!
4:00 PM – After your desert adventure, we depart for Nazca.
7:00 PM – Arrival in Nazca and check-in at your hotel.
- Accomodation: Casa Andina Nazca or Similar
- Meals: Only Breakfast
- Tickets: Incldued
Day 04: Nazca Lines Overflight, Aqueduct Tour & Journey to Arequipa
8:00 AM – We begin with pickup from your hotel in Lima and head south to the Nazca Airport. Upon arrival at the aerodrome, your guide will assist you with check-in.
Important: Please bring your passport or valid ID, which is required for the flight.
9:00 AM – Take to the skies for a spectacular 35-minute flight over the Nazca Lines, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you soar above the desert, you’ll witness massive geoglyphs shaped like a monkey, condor, hummingbird, and more. These mysterious figures, created over 2,000 years ago, continue to puzzle archaeologists and fascinate visitors.
10:30 AM – After the overflight, we’ll visit the Cantalloc Aqueducts, a remarkable engineering feat of the ancient Nazca civilization. These underground canals, still in use today, show the ingenuity and skill of a culture that built complex irrigation systems in one of the driest regions on Earth.
12:00 PM – Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (not included; your guide will assist you with recommendations). Typical meals range from 35 to 45 soles (approximately $10–$15 USD).
2:00 PM – After lunch, you will board a comfortable bus to Arequipa, with Cruz del Sur or Civa, two of Peru’s top-rated bus companies. Enjoy a scenic afternoon and evening journey through changing landscapes as you head toward the beautiful White City of Arequipa.
Upon arrival, our representative will be waiting for you at the bus terminal to provide a warm welcome and private transfer to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and relaxing end to your travel day.
- Accomodation: Casa Andina Arequipa or Similar
- Meals: Only breakfast
- Tickets: Included
Day 05: Arequipa to Colca Canyon – Scenic Journey & Hot Springs
7:30 AM – Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa to begin your shared guided tour to the Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world.
As we drive through the Andes, we’ll ascend to Pampa Cañahuas Reserve at 4,200 meters above sea level, a natural habitat for vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. Here, you can take beautiful photos of these native Andean animals in the wild. We'll then stop in Patahuasi, where you can enjoy a warm coca tea to help with the altitude.
We continue to Patapampa, the highest point of the journey at 4,800 meters (15,748 ft) above sea level. This stunning viewpoint offers panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountain range, including volcanoes like Ampato, Sabancaya, and Hualca Hualca.
1:00 PM – Arrival in Chivay, a charming town at 3,600 meters elevation. Enjoy a traditional lunch (not included), followed by check-in at your hotel. and have free afternoon to relax and enjoy the Hot springs, surrounded by beautiful canyon landscapes.
- Accomodation: Colca Lodge or Similar
- Meals: Only breakfast
- Tickets: Include
Day 06: Colca Canyon – Condor Viewpoint & Transfer to Puno
5:30 AM – Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before departing for the highlight of the Colca Canyon: the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. This is the best place to witness the majestic Andean condors gliding over the canyon, a truly unforgettable sight.
On the return journey to Chivay, we’ll stop at several scenic viewpoints and visit the charming Andean towns of Yanque and Maca, known for their colonial churches, local crafts, and stunning landscapes.
12:00 PM – Arrive back in Chivay for lunch (not included), then prepare for your journey to Puno.
After lunch, board our comfortable vehicle for a scenic 5-hour drive to Puno, passing through beautiful highland valleys, remote Andean villages, and impressive mountain views. The route offers opportunities to see wildlife and vast altiplano landscapes.
Upon arrival in Puno (elevation approx. 3,800 meters), your driver will drop you off at your hotel for check-in and rest.
- Accomodation: Tierra Viva Puno or Similar
- Meals: Only breakfast
- Tickets: Include
Day 07: Uros & Taquile Islands Full-Day Tour – Lake Titicaca
Pick-up: 7:15 AM | Drop-off: 3:30 PM
Explore the magic of Lake Titicaca on this unforgettable full-day boat tour from Puno. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Floating Uros Islands, where you'll meet the local families who live on handmade islands built from totora reeds, a fascinating glimpse into one of the lake's oldest living cultures.
Then, continue to Taquile Island, famous for its vibrant textile art and deep-rooted traditions. Enjoy a scenic walk, connect with local weavers, and savor a delicious lunch with panoramic lake views. This cultural journey offers a unique window into the lives of the communities who call Lake Titicaca home.
Return to Puno by mid-afternoon, filled with stories, smiles, and a deeper appreciation for Peru’s highland heritage.
- Accomodation: Tierra Viva Puno or Similar
- Meals: breakfast and Lunch
- Tickets: Include
Day 08: Puno to Cusco – The Sun Route Experience
Pick-up: 6:20 AM | Arrival in Cusco: ~5:30 PM
Travel from Puno to Cusco in comfort and style along the breathtaking Sun Route, a scenic journey filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures. We’ll pick you up at your hotel in Puno and transfer you to the bus terminal, where you’ll begin this full-day guided adventure.
Along the way, enjoy guided visits to impressive archaeological and colonial sites, including Pukara, the majestic La Raya Pass (the highest point of the journey at 4,335 meters), the Inca temple of Raqchi, and the beautiful Andahuaylillas Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes."
A delicious lunch is included in a local restaurant en route, where you can relax and taste regional flavors while surrounded by Andean scenery.
Around 5:30 PM, you’ll arrive in the historic city of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting at the terminal to provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and welcoming arrival in the Land of the Incas.
- Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
- Meals: breakfast and Lunch
- Tickets: Include
Day 09: Cusco City Tour – History, Culture & Inca Ruins
Enjoy a free morning to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Then, at 1:00 PM, your guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin the Cusco City Tour, a perfect introduction to the heart of the Inca Empire.
Start with a visit to the majestic Cusco Cathedral, home to stunning colonial art and sacred treasures. Then explore Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, once the most important spiritual site in the Inca world.
Next, head to the outskirts of the city to discover the impressive Inca archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay, each offering insight into the advanced engineering, spirituality, and daily life of the Incas.
The tour ends around 5:30 PM, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of Cusco’s rich past and its blend of Inca and colonial heritage.
- Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
- Meals: Only breakfast
- Tickets: Include
Day 10: Sacred Valley Tour – Inca Sites, Culture & Overnight in Ollantaytambo
Today, your journey through the Sacred Valley begins with an 8:00 AM pickup from your hotel. Our first stop is an alpaca and llama farm, where you’ll learn about these iconic Andean animals and see traditional weaving techniques in action.
We continue to the impressive Pisac Inca ruins, perched high on a hillside with stunning valley views. After exploring the site, visit the colorful Pisac market, where locals sell handmade textiles, crafts, and produce, a perfect place to shop and connect with Andean culture.
Next, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley. In the afternoon, we visit the magnificent Ollantaytambo archaeological site, an ancient Inca fortress and living town with cobbled streets and rich history.
After the tour, you’ll spend the night in Ollantaytambo, a charming village known as the last living Inca town, the perfect place to rest before beginning your Inca Trail adventure the following morning.
- Accomodation: Sol Natura or Similar
- Meals: breakfast - Lunch
- Tickets: Include
Day 11: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – One-Day Hike with Stunning Views
Your adventure begins early with a 5:45 AM pickup from your hotel. We’ll transfer to the train station and board the train toward KM 104, the starting point of the legendary Short Inca Trail.
Our hike begins with a visit to the Chachabamba Inca site, a ceremonial center surrounded by lush vegetation. We continue uphill through stunning cloud forest until we reach the breathtaking Wiñayhuayna, also known as the “Little Machu Picchu,” one of the most beautiful Inca ruins on the trail.
After enjoying a hearty camping fresh lunch at a scenic spot, we continue toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you'll catch your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, a magical moment you’ll never forget.
From there, it’s a final descent of about 45 minutes to the upper terraces of Machu Picchu, offering the best views of the citadel. After soaking in the scenery and taking incredible photos, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night and prepare for your guided tour of Machu Picchu the next day.
- Accomodation: Tierra Viva or Similar
- Meals: breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
- Tickets: Include
Day 12: Explore the Wonder of Machu Picchu
On the second day of your Short Inca Trail adventure, you'll wake up early and enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Soon after, you'll take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to begin your unforgettable visit.
Upon arrival, you'll pass through the official checkpoint and start your guided tour of the majestic citadel, following Circuit 3, a route that takes you through some of the most iconic and photogenic areas. Your expert guide will walk you through ancient highlights such as the Temple of the Sun, ritual water fountains, agricultural terraces, and many other impressive remnants that reflect the brilliance of Inca architecture and engineering.
The guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours, offering deep insights into the cultural and historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you've chosen the optional Huayna Picchu hike (not included in the standard package), you’ll have the chance to tackle this steep but rewarding climb, which takes about 2 hours round-trip. If not, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax, explore the town, or enjoy lunch at your own pace (not included).
In the afternoon, you'll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where private transport will be waiting to take you to Cusco. You'll arrive at your hotel around 7:00 PM, ending your magical 2-day journey to Machu Picchu with memories that will last a lifetime.
- Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
- Meals: Only breakfast
- Tickets: Include
Day 13: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Full-Day Adventure
Your journey begins with an early hotel pick-up in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. We drive south through scenic Andean villages and sweeping valleys for about 3 hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast in a local community, with time to stretch and start acclimating to the high-altitude beauty of the Andes, complete with alpacas, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Quechua homes.
Upon arrival at the trailhead (4,600 m), your guide will give a safety briefing before beginning the trek. The hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is a gradual climb, surrounded by stunning highland scenery. After 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll reach the summit at 5,200 meters, where you'll take in unforgettable views and vibrant colors stretching across the mountainside.
From here, we continue to the awe-inspiring Red Valley, a quieter, equally stunning route of deep crimson hills and surreal landscapes. This 45-minute to 1-hour hike offers a peaceful escape and breathtaking photo opportunities.
After descending, we return to the community for a well-earned hot lunch made with fresh local ingredients. We then head back to Cusco, arriving around 4:00 to 5:00 PM.
This full-day tour is a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture. With Champions Peru Travel, you’ll hike safely and comfortably with experienced guides who make your journey unforgettable.
- Accomodation: Rumipunko or Similar
- Meals: breakfast - lunch
- Tickets: Include
Day 14: Transfer Out – Farewell from Champions Peru
Approximately 2 hours before your flight, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport. It’s time to say goodbye, thank you for traveling with Champions Peru, your trusted local tour operator. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories and we look forward to welcoming you back to Peru someday!
- Accomodation: None
- Meals: Only breakfast
- Tickets: NA