Tour Details:
Experience the best of Peru in just 8 days with our Peru Highlights Express Tour. This fast-paced adventure covers Peru’s most iconic destinations, blending rich history, vibrant culture, stunning nature, and breathtaking landscapes. Starting in Lima, Paracas, and Huacachina, you will explore the colonial charm and vibrant gastronomy of the capital and coastal regions before heading to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital.
Discover the Sacred Valley’s archaeological wonders, the majestic Machu Picchu, and the unique floating islands of Lake Titicaca. The journey finishes with the rich cultural heritage of Puno and the breathtaking high Andes.
This express itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking to maximize their Peruvian experience in a limited time, without missing the country’s most spectacular highlights.
Highlights:
- Explore Lima’s historic center and world-renowned culinary scene
- Visit Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands for incredible wildlife encounters
- Discover the desert oasis of Huacachina and its impressive sand dunes
- Guided tour of Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire
- Visit the Sacred Valley: Chinchero, Moray agricultural terraces, Maras salt mines, and Ollantaytambo fortress
- Full-day guided tour of Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore Puno and take a boat tour to the Uros Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca
- Experience the traditional Quechua culture on Taquile Island
- Enjoy stunning Andean landscapes and immersive cultural experiences
- Comfortable accommodations and professional English-speaking guides throughout
- Round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu and all transfers included
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Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival in Lima and Private Transfer to Miraflores Hotel
Arrive at Lima International Airport and enjoy a seamless private transfer to your hotel in the popular Miraflores district. Miraflores is one of Lima’s top tourist destinations, known for its beautiful oceanfront views, safe neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining options. Starting your Peru trip here offers easy access to cultural sites and modern amenities.
This private airport transfer ensures a stress-free arrival, so you can relax and prepare for your upcoming adventures in Peru.
DAY 2: Ancestral Lima City Tour – Discover the Rich History and Culture of Peru’s Capital
Start your day with an expertly guided tour through Lima’s historic center, one of the most important cultural and architectural hubs in South America. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lima’s downtown area boasts magnificent colonial-era buildings, beautiful plazas, and churches that reflect Peru’s rich history and deep-rooted traditions.
Your journey begins at the iconic Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas), the birthplace of Lima and the site of major historical events. Here, you’ll admire the Presidential Palace, the Lima Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace, each with stunning facades and centuries-old stories to tell.
Continue to the San Francisco Monastery, famous for its remarkable architecture, colonial library, and haunting underground catacombs. This site provides a unique glimpse into Lima’s religious and colonial past.
Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about Lima’s foundation, its transformation through the centuries, and how indigenous cultures blended with Spanish influences to shape modern Peru.
The tour also includes visits to traditional neighborhoods and bustling local markets where you can experience the vibrant colors, aromas, and flavors of Peru’s culinary heritage. Don’t miss the chance to taste iconic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, anticuchos, and pisco sour, enriching your cultural experience.
This Ancestral Lima City Tour is a perfect introduction to Peru’s capital, combining history, art, architecture, and gastronomy — ideal for travelers seeking to connect deeply with Peru’s past and present.
DAY 3: Paracas, Ica & Huacachina – Adventure and Nature in Southern Peru from Lima
Begin your exciting Day 3 with an early morning pickup at 4:00 AM from the designated meeting point in Lima. Embark on a full-day tour exploring the stunning southern coast of Peru, returning to Lima by approximately 11:30 PM.
Travel from Lima to Paracas National Reserve, a protected coastal area known for its diverse marine wildlife, dramatic desert landscapes, and spectacular ocean vistas. Discover the unique ecosystem where the desert meets the Pacific Ocean, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Next, head to the vibrant city of Ica, famous for its vineyards and traditional pisco distilleries. Take a guided tour of local wineries, sample authentic Peruvian pisco, and learn about the centuries-old process behind Peru’s national spirit.
Continue to the enchanting desert oasis of Huacachina, surrounded by massive sand dunes. Enjoy thrilling activities like sandboarding and exhilarating dune buggy rides, or simply relax by the serene lagoon. Capture breathtaking sunset views over the desert, a memorable highlight of your Peruvian adventure.
This comprehensive tour is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of nature, culture, and adventure on Peru’s southern coast — all in one unforgettable day trip from Lima.
DAY 4: Transfer from Lima to Cusco – Seamless Airport Pickup and Arrival Experience
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your Lima hotel, our attentive representative will meet you in the lobby to ensure a smooth, stress-free transfer aligned with your flight schedule. You’ll be comfortably escorted to Jorge Chávez International Airport, ready for your domestic flight to Cusco — the gateway to Peru’s majestic Andes and Inca heritage.
During the drive to the airport, take in the vibrant sights of Lima’s diverse neighborhoods. Your representative will share interesting facts and helpful tips to prepare you for your exciting adventures in Cusco.
Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll receive full assistance with check-in and any necessary procedures, allowing you to relax before boarding your flight. Once airborne, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Andes Mountains, setting the tone for the unforgettable experiences ahead.
Landing in Cusco, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a dedicated Sungate Peru Travel representative. From the airport, you’ll be transferred in private, comfortable transport to your hotel. During the short drive, your guide will provide important details about your upcoming tours and answer any questions you may have.
After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and acclimate to the altitude or explore Cusco’s charming colonial streets and vibrant culture at your own pace.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique atmosphere of this iconic Peruvian city.
DAY 5: Cusco City Tour and Visit to Four Archaeological Sites
Pickup from your hotel at 8:45 AM to begin an immersive guided tour of Cusco’s historic city center, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Explore the beautiful colonial architecture, bustling plazas, and vibrant markets while learning about the rich history and culture of Cusco.
Continue to visit four remarkable archaeological sites just outside the city:
- Sacsayhuamán: Famous for its massive stone walls and panoramic views over Cusco.
- Qenqo: An ancient ceremonial center with carved rocks and subterranean passages.
- Puka Pukara: The “Red Fortress,” a strategic military outpost with well-preserved stone ruins.
- Tambomachay: Known as the Inca “Baths,” believed to be a site for ritual water ceremonies.
The tour concludes around 2:30 PM, leaving you the afternoon free to explore Cusco at your leisure.
DAY 6: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac and Ollantaytambo, then transfer to Aguas Calientes
Start your day early with a hotel pickup to explore the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas. Your first stop is Pisac, famous for its vibrant market and impressive Inca archaeological site perched on the hillside. Discover ancient terraces, temples, and breathtaking views of the valley below.
Next, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch in Urubamba, the heart of the Sacred Valley, before continuing to Ollantaytambo. This well-preserved Inca town features massive stone terraces and fortress ruins, showcasing Inca engineering and architecture at its finest.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station to board your train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, your hotel transfer will be waiting to escort you comfortably to your accommodation, where you can rest and prepare for your Machu Picchu visit the following day.
DAY 7: Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco
Your day begins early with a hotel pick-up at approximately 5:30 AM, taking you to the bus station for the scenic journey to the Machu Picchu citadel. Upon arrival, embark on a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu’s most iconic and breathtaking sites, learning about the ancient Inca civilization and the significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the citadel independently, take stunning photos, or simply absorb the awe-inspiring views until your departure around noon.
Next, take the bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have some leisure time to relax or explore before boarding your train. Remember to be at the train station at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
The train departs at 6:20 PM, arriving at Ollantaytambo station. From there, you will be comfortably transferred back to Cusco, where your tour concludes with a hotel drop-off.
DAY 8: Transfer to Cusco Airport
Your transfer to Cusco Airport will be arranged approximately 2 hours before your scheduled flight to ensure you have plenty of time for check-in and security procedures. Our punctual and comfortable service will take you from your hotel directly to the airport, making your departure from Cusco smooth and stress-free.
This marks the end of your incredible journey through Peru. Safe travels!
Included / Excluded
- Airport and hotel pick-up and drop-off (door-to-door service).
- 7-night hotel accommodation with private bathrooms and breakfast included (Twin/Double, Single, or Triple rooms, based on your selection).
- Guided tours of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Lima city, Paracas & Huacachina, and Cusco city.
- Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Roundtrip bus tickets for Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes) for Days 1 and 2.
- All admission tickets, including Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
- Professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Overland transportation for all transfers during the 8-day program.
- One bottle of water.
- International airfare.
- Domestic air tickets (Lima – Cusco – Lima).
- One-way Vistadome train upgrade (US$ 95).
- Meals (lunch and dinner).
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Additional personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, snacks, etc.).
- Gratuities (optional).
What to Bring:
- Original passport (required for permits and entrance tickets)
- International Student Identity Card (if applicable, for student discounts)
- Travel insurance documents
- Rain poncho or waterproof plastic cover
- Warm jacket or coat for cold weather
- Sunscreen
- Cap or hat for sun protection
- Sunglasses
- Extra clothing layers for changing weather conditions
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Suitable footwear for hiking and exploring Machu Picchu
- Reusable water bottle
- Insect repellent
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Personal toiletries
- Small daypack for daily essentials
- Ear plugs for better sleep comfort
- Snacks and additional water
- Slippers or sandals (for showers and hot springs)
- Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Extra money for personal expenses
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
