New Perspectives from Peru with Sharon
Your TourHero
Sharon is a boutique owner and passionate about learning about the world. Her top favorite activities are traveling (of course), music, and fitness. She is excited to become your tour hero creator. With her adventurous personality, she would attempt overcoming fear of heights on her trips by including them in her tour activities such as parasailing, paragliding, skydiving, and/or rappelling. If you’d like to accompany her to overcome your fear of heights, you’ll be up for an adventure with her. If not, there’ll be a back up activity listed in the itinerary.
Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Travel Date
June 12 – 21, 2025
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 10
Transportation
Group transportation, boat, plane, train
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
18+
Travel interest
Sightseeing, food, culture, nature, adventure, hiking
Your Local Guide
Absolute experts when it comes to Peru's finest destinations, South Andes Travel is a DMC ready to make your dreams come true in Peru. Their mission is to serve as the point of connection between international travelers and Peru, and they accomplish this through a variety of ready-made itineraries as well as personalized trips. They focus on responsible travel by honoring local cultures, respecting the natural areas that make Peru so beautiful, and supporting local businesses.
Join us on an unforgettable 10-day adventure through Peru, where you'll explore the vibrant city of Lima, swim with sea lions, and witness the stunning Magic Water Circuit. Experience thrilling dune buggy rides and boat tour of Ballestas Islands in Huacachina before immersing yourself in the ancient beauty of Cusco. Visit the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and embark on a trek to the sacred 7 Lakes of Ausangate. Enjoy a free day to explore Cusco at your own pace, and end your journey with cherished memories of Peru's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.
Note: All timings reflected in the itinerary are tentative and subject to changes.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Mar 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -5), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.
If you cancel your trip from Mar 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT -5) onwards, no refunds will be issued.
You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Trip disclaimer
To offer you the best deals and group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers to book this trip. If this number is not met, or an act of force majeure occurs, TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may make the call to cancel or reschedule. If the departure is canceled or rescheduled out of your control, you will be alerted by March 9, 2025, and will receive a full refund.
We recommend booking refundable flights/accommodations just in case. This protects you from losing your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, or any other cost associated with planning your trip.
Your TourHero
Sharon is a boutique owner and passionate about learning about the world. Her top favorite activities are traveling (of course), music, and fitness. She is excited to become your tour hero creator. With her adventurous personality, she would attempt overcoming fear of heights on her trips by including them in her tour activities such as parasailing, paragliding, skydiving, and/or rappelling. If you’d like to accompany her to overcome your fear of heights, you’ll be up for an adventure with her. If not, there’ll be a back up activity listed in the itinerary.
Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Travel Date
June 12 – 21, 2025
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 10
Transportation
Group transportation, boat, plane, train
Join us on an unforgettable 10-day adventure through Peru, where you'll explore the vibrant city of Lima, swim with sea lions, and witness the stunning Magic Water Circuit. Experience thrilling dune buggy rides and boat tour of Ballestas Islands in Huacachina before immersing yourself in the ancient beauty of Cusco. Visit the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and embark on a trek to the sacred 7 Lakes of Ausangate. Enjoy a free day to explore Cusco at your own pace, and end your journey with cherished memories of Peru's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.
Note: All timings reflected in the itinerary are tentative and subject to changes.
Timeline
- Day 1 · June 12, 2025 · Lima
- Arrive in Peru at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
- Group transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check-in at Del Pilar Miraflores (or similar according to availability)
- Welcome dinner
- Day 2 · June 13, 2025 · Lima
- Breakfast at the hotel
- 9:00 am: Pick up from hotel
- 10:00 am - 1:00 pm: Swimming with sea lions
- 2:00 pm: Drop-off at hotel
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Lima bike tour
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Evening show at Magic Water Circuit
- Day 3 · June 14, 2025 · Lima & Huacachina
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- 6:00 am: Drive to Paracas
- ~ 4 hrs van
- 10:00 am / 10:30 am: Ballestas Islands boat tour (shared service)
- Lunch (not included in price)
- 2:00 pm / 3:00 pm: Transfer to Huacachina
- ~ 1 hr van
- Oasis dune buggy ride
- Check-in at Hostal Curasi (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · June 15, 2025 · Huacachina & Lima
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- 8:30 am: Drive to Lima
- ~ 4 hrs 30 mins van
- Check-in at Del Pilar Miraflores (or similar according to availability)
- Free time
- Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · June 16, 2025 · Lima & Cusco
- Optional paragliding in Costa Verde (see add-ons)
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Group transfer to airport
- 9:35 am: Flight from Lima to Cusco
- 11:00 am: Arrive at Alejandro Vetasco Astete International Airport
- Group transfer to accommodation
- Check-in at Xima Cussco (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch (not included in price)
- 2:00 pm: City tour — Main square, Hatumrumiyoc, San Pedro local market (2.5 - 3 hours)
- Return to hotel
- Dinner with entertainment
- Day 6 · June 17, 2025 · Sacred Valley
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- ATV tour: Lake Huaypo, Moray, Maras (2 hours)
- Lunch
- Depart for Ollantaytambo
- 6:30 pm: Check-in at Tika Wasi Valley (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner
- Day 7 · June 18, 2025 · Machu Picchu & Cusco
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
- 8:30 am: Train to Auguas Calientes
- Bus to Machu Picchu
- 11:00 am: Machu Picchu visit
- Bus back to Aguas Calientes
- Lunch
- Free time in Aguas Calientes
- 3:48 pm: Train back to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer to hotel
- Check-in at Lamay Lodge (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 8 · June 19, 2025 · Cusco
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- 5:30 am: Depart for full-day trip to 7 Lakes of Ausangate
- 9:30 am: Trek to 7 Lakes of Ausangate (5 hours) with lunch
- Return to Cusco
- Check-in at Xima Cusco (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 9 · June 20, 2025 · Cusco
- Breakfast
- Free time
- Lunch
- Free time
- Dinner in downtown Cusco
- Day 10 · June 21, 2025 · Departure
- Breakfast
- Check out of accommodation
- Transfer to airport
- Flight to Lima
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1 · June 12, 2025
Welcome to Lima, the City of Kings
-Begin your adventure as you touch down in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, known for its rich history and culinary delights.
-Enjoy a comfortable group transfer to your hotel, where you’ll get your first glimpse of Lima’s modern and colonial charm.
-Settle into your cozy accommodation and take your time to freshen up.
-Gather with your travel group for a delicious welcome dinner, savoring authentic Peruvian cuisine while getting to know your fellow adventurers.
Day 2 · June 13, 2025
Adventures and illuminations in Lima
-Start your day with a hearty breakfast, preparing for a morning of unforgettable experiences.
-Embark on an exhilarating adventure to swim with playful sea lions in their natural habitat off Lima’s coastline.
-Relax and refresh back at your hotel after the morning’s aquatic activities.
-Pedal through Lima’s vibrant neighborhoods on a bike tour, discovering hidden gems, coastal views, and lively city streets on a guided bike ride.
-Marvel at an enchanting display of illuminated fountains, music, and vibrant lights in one of Lima’s most beloved attraction.
Day 3 · June 14, 2025
From the coast to the desert — Paracas and Huacachina
-Enjoy your last meal at the hotel before departing for an exciting day of coastal and desert exploration.
-Embark on a scenic 4-hour journey south to Paracas, where the ocean meets the desert.
-Cruise to the Ballestas Islands, often called the 'Galapagos of Peru,'' to spot sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.
-In the afternoon, enjoy an adrenaline-pumping dune buggy ride over the towering sand dunes of Huacachina, followed by a chance to try sandboarding.
-Settle into your accommodation at the tranquil Huacachina oasis.
Day 4 · June 15, 2025
Back to Lima's urban energy
-Enjoy breakfast before bidding farewell to the magical Huacachina oasis.
-Settle back into your Miraflores accommodation and get ready to explore more of Lima.
Note: Travel time back to Lima is dependent on traffic conditions.
Day 5 · June 16, 2025
Head to Cusco, the gateway to the Andes
-Kick off an incredible morning with an optional paragliding excursion in Costa Verde! Soar high over the stunning landscapes for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. (See add-ons for pricing and more information.)
-Fuel up with breakfast before departing from Lima to Cusco via a domestic flight.
-On arrival in Cusco, a scenic group transfer will take you to your accommodation.
After lunch, discover the treasures of Cusco on a guided tour, visiting the historic main square, the iconic Hatumrumiyoc street with its 12-angled stone, and the vibrant San Pedro local market.
-In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner accompanied by traditional music and dance performances, immersing yourself in Cusco’s rich culture.
Note: Flight times listed in this itinerary are suggested timings. Flights later in the day are available, but the prices might be higher.
Day 6 · June 17, 2025
Exploring the Sacred Valley on ATV
-Enjoy a morning meal and check out of your Cusco hotel, ready for a day of exploration.
-Hop on an ATV for an exhilarating ride through the Sacred Valley, visiting the stunning Lake Huaypo, the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray, and the salt mines of Maras.
-Refuel with a delicious local lunch, enjoying traditional Peruvian flavors in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
-Travel to Ollantaytambo, a charming town known for its impressive Incan ruins and scenic surroundings.
-Settle into your peaceful accommodation, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
-End the day with a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Day 7 · June 18, 2025
Journey to the Lost City
-Get up bright and early and prepare to experience one of the world's most iconic landmarks — Machu Picchu.
-Board the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, as you pass through lush landscapes and Andean villages.
-From Aguas Calientes, take a short bus ride up to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, perched high on a mountain ridge.
-Explore the ancient Inca citadel, marveling at its impressive stone structures, terraces, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
-After your visit, descend back to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved rest.
-Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in Aguas Calientes.
-Take some time to stroll through the village, relax, or shop for souvenirs.
-Board the return train, enjoying the scenic ride back to Ollantaytambo.
-Settle into your peaceful lodge and reminisce about the amazing experiences of the day.
Day 8 · June 19, 2025
Full-day trip to 7 Lakes of Ausangate
-Indulge in breakfast before packing up and setting for today's activities.
-Embark on a scenic early morning journey to the sacred Ausangate mountain, renowned for its vibrant lakes and breathtaking landscapes.
-Hike through rugged terrain to the stunning seven Lakes of Ausangate, taking in the serene beauty and vibrant hues of the lakes. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst this awe-inspiring natural beauty.
-After a rewarding day of trekking, travel back to Cusco, reflecting on the stunning landscapes you’ve witnessed.
-Once back in Cusco, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the night at leisure.
Day 9 · June 20, 2025
Relax and explore Cusco at your own pace
-Spend the day at your own pace, exploring the charming streets of Cusco, visiting local markets, or simply relaxing and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
-End the day with a delicious dinner in downtown Cusco, savoring traditional Peruvian cuisine in the heart of the city.
Day 10 · June 21, 2025
Farewell, Peru, and thanks for the memories
-Enjoy your final breakfast in Peru, savoring the last moments of this incredible journey.
-Pack your belongings and check out of your accommodation, preparing for your departure.
-A group transfer will take you to the airport where you'll board your fight back to Lima, where international connections await.
-Bid farewell to Peru as your remarkable journey comes to a close, carrying with you the experiences and stories of a lifetime.
Accommodation
Del Pilar Miraflores Hotel (or similar according to availability)
If you want to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture without sacrificing any modern comforts, Del Pilar Miraflores Hotel is your ideal accommodation. It is located in Lima's upscale Miraflores neighborhood, and amenities like the Larcomar shopping center and the picturesque Miraflores Malecon are easily accessible. The hotel also boasts a sophisticated restaurant that serves delectable Peruvian and international cuisine. Amenities ranging from a well-equipped fitness center to a cozy bar will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Double or twin beds.
Hostal Curasi (or similar according to availability)
Hostal Curasi in Huacachina offers a comfortable and inviting stay with its well-appointed rooms featuring wood furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and convenient amenities like Wi-Fi and ceiling fans. Guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere throughout the hotel, including a casual restaurant with a terrace, an outdoor pool, and sunloungers perfect for unwinding. The peaceful garden adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for a restful and enjoyable experience. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Double or twin beds.
Xima Cusco Hotel* (or similar according to availability)
Located in the heart of Cusco, Xima Cusco is your home away from home at the beginning or end of your trip to Machu Picchu. This high-end accommodation offers free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, bar, spa services, and 24/7 support. Get acclimated to the altitude, get comfortable in your room, and enjoy the city from this prime spot. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Double or twin beds.
Tika Wasi Valley (or similar according to availability)
Nestled in the captivating Ollantaytambo, Tika Wasi Valley offers a cozy retreat with its 33 well-appointed rooms. Situated just 2.3 kilometers from Plazoleta Aracama, this 2-star gem is conveniently located for exploration. The heart of Ollantaytambo is a mere 5 minutes' walk away, while cultural treasures like the Ruinas Ollantaytambo Museum await at a distance of 2.3 km. Guests can relax in comfortable rooms featuring bathrooms with a separate toilet and a shower, complete with a hairdryer and bath sheets. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Double or twin beds.
Lamay Lodge (or similar according to availability)
At Lamay Lodge in Cusco, guests can enjoy a peaceful and comfortable stay in simple yet elegant rooms. The hotel features an outdoor hot tub for relaxation and a restaurant offering meals made with fresh, local produce. With Wi-Fi available, it’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Double or twin beds.
Included
3 nights in Lima
1 night in Huacachina
4 nights in Cusco
1 night in Sacred Valley
Shared double occupancy in accommodation
All breakfasts
Lunch on day 6, 7, 8, 9
Dinner on day 1, 5, 6, 9
All activities described in the itinerary
Swimming with sea lions near Lima
Lima bike tour (2 hours)
2-day trip to Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis – sand buggy/sandboarding included, boat tour included, a local guide to assist with the program
ATV tour
Moray/Ollantaytambo entry tickets
Salt Terraces visit + entry cost
7 Lakes of Ausangate full-day trip
Machu Picchu tour including, bus-shuttles, lunch, transportation to Cusco, guide(s)
Cusco city tour
One group airport arrival transfer
One group airport departure transfer
Domestic flights
Return train tickets between Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu (Vistadome observatory tickets from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, expedition class tickets for return journey)
Not included
International flights
All food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions
Optional add-ons
Travel insurance
Gratuities
Train class upgrade for return train from Machu Picchu to Sacred Valley
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.
Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?
Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.
If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.
Do I need a passport for this trip?
A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.
What's included in the price?
Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.
Available add-on
Single supplement room upgrade for the entire trip
Want a little more privacy during your trip? Select this single supplement add-on and have a room all to yourself.
Price: USD 600
2 spots left
(Day 5) Paragliding in Costa Verde
Price: USD 106
4 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Mar 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -5), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.
If you cancel your trip from Mar 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT -5) onwards, no refunds will be issued.
You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.
Trip disclaimer
To offer you the best deals and group rates, we need a minimum number of travelers to book this trip. If this number is not met, or an act of force majeure occurs, TourHero, the trip host, and the tour operator may make the call to cancel or reschedule. If the departure is canceled or rescheduled out of your control, you will be alerted by March 9, 2025, and will receive a full refund.
We recommend booking refundable flights/accommodations just in case. This protects you from losing your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, or any other cost associated with planning your trip.
- Single supplement add-on - Unsplash: Rhema Kallianpur
- Get up close and personal with wildlife on a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands - Zigor Agirrezabala Vitoria
- Walk through the water archways at the iconic Magic Water Circuit in Lima. - Facebook: Circuito Magico del Agua
- Travel to the desert oasis in Huacachina — a hidden gem in the ancient city of Ica. - Unsplash: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
- Add-on: Paragliding - Pixabay: JACLOU-DL
- Xima Cusco - Facebook: Xima Hotels
- Next up is the Inca town of Ollantaytambo where we'll be catching the train to Aguas Calientes. - Wikimedia Commons
- With luck, we'll also get some views of Ausangate, the impressive peak in the distance that defines this mountain range. - Wikimedia Commons
- Slow things down and just take in the views. There is nowhere in the world quite like Cusco. - Pixabay: jdbenthien
- Enjoy a variety of Peruvian favorites in Cusco with meals at local restaurants. - Unsplash: Pirata Studio Film
- Del Pilar Miraflores Hotel - Del Pilar Hotels
- When we arrive in Aguas Calientes, you'll begin to feel the magic of history swirling around you. - Unsplash: Giancarlo Revolledo
- As you soak in the breathtaking surroundings, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the most significant areas, providing insights into the rich history of Machu Picchu. - Kenny Alexis Sánchez Villalobos
- We're back in Cusco, and we're simply relaxing today without anything on the schedule. - Unsplash: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
- We'll be hopping on ATVs/quad bikes and riding into the Peruvian countryside. - Unsplash: Ivan Ulamec
- After the awe-inspiring experience at Machu Picchu, we board a bus that will take us back to Aguas Calientes. To reward ourselves, we visit a local restaurant for lunch. - Wikimedia Commons: CEllen
- Welcome to Lima, the first stop in our Peruvian adventure. - Unsplash: Creators Brand
- The salt mines of Maras have been around for hundreds of years, and they will leave you in awe. - Unsplash: Stuart Croft
- A half-day tour of Cusco will take you through its many landmarks, including the historic main square. - Unsplash: Renny Gamarra Tuaeg
- Tika Wasi Valley - Tika Wasi Valley
- We leave the modern capital of Peru for the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. - Unsplash: Joe Green
- Our adventure brings us back to Lima, where we get one last chance to indulge in Peru's unique vibe. - Patricia van den Berg
- Moray is an archaeological site in Peru containing Inca ruins, mostly consisting of several terraced circular depressions. - JustinW
- You'll be inspired by the postcard-perfect landscapes at Ausangate. - Ausangate Peru
- Officially kick off our time together with a welcome dinner. - Fauxels
- Hostal Curasi - Hostal Curasi
- Lamay Lodge - Lamay Lodge
- Embark on an exhilarating adventure to swim with playful sea lions in their natural habitat off Lima’s coastline. - Meg von Haartman
- Pedal through Lima’s vibrant neighborhoods on a bike tour, discovering hidden gems, coastal views, and lively city streets on a guided bike ride. - Ianyou78