Peru Mystica 11 Days / 10 Nights

Welcome to Peru! We know how exhausting international flights can be, so upon your arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, an Inka Trail Backpacker representative will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name to welcome you and comfortably transfer you to your selected hotel.

After check-in, you will have the afternoon free to rest after your journey or explore Lima on your own. You can visit the Miraflores area, walk through Kennedy Park, visit Larcomar, or enjoy Peru’s renowned cuisine at one of the city’s restaurants.

Overnight stay: Lima
Meals included: None

Between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Lima and begin our journey south toward Paracas.

Upon arrival in Paracas, we will head to El Chaco Pier to board a modern speedboat for an excursion to the Ballestas Islands, located in Paracas Bay. During the trip, you will enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and observe a wide variety of marine wildlife, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, flamingos, parihuanas, and numerous seabirds. Along the way, you will also see the famous Candelabra geoglyph carved into a hillside while your guide explains the different theories about its origin. The boat tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

After the excursion, we will continue to the city of Ica, where you will have free time for lunch (not included).

Next, we will visit the Noelia Chocolate Factory, where you can sample traditional regional products such as chocotejas, alfajores, jams, artisan cookies, filled mousses, and more.

In the afternoon, we will visit the beautiful Huacachina Oasis, a natural lagoon surrounded by impressive sand dunes. Here you will enjoy an exciting dune buggy ride and the experience of sandboarding in the desert. You will also have free time to walk around the oasis and take unforgettable photographs.

Before returning to Lima, we will visit a local winery, where you will have the opportunity to taste some of the region’s most traditional products, including wines, piscos, pisco creams, macerated spirits, and mistelas.

At approximately 7:00 p.m., we will board the bus back to Lima. Upon arrival, around 10:00 p.m., our team will transfer you to your selected hotel.

Overnight stay in Lima.

Today your Andean adventure begins! After enjoying breakfast at your hotel in Lima, your host will accompany you to the airport for your flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

During the flight, you will be able to appreciate the impressive change in scenery as the Pacific coast and desert dunes gradually give way to the majestic Andes Mountains.

Upon arrival at Cusco Airport, an Inka Trail Backpacker representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals area with a sign displaying your name to welcome you and comfortably transfer you to your selected hotel. Located at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, Cusco offers an extraordinary combination of history, culture, and Andean landscapes.

After check-in, we recommend taking some time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. You may also enjoy a traditional cup of coca tea at your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time, you will have the rest of the day free to have lunch at a local restaurant, explore the Plaza de Armas, visit the traditional San Blas neighborhood, browse local handicraft shops, or simply relax in one of Cusco’s cozy cafés.

In the evening, we recommend enjoying dinner to discover traditional Peruvian and Andean cuisine.

“It’s not altitude sickness… it’s the feeling of being closer to the sky.”

Overnight stay in Cusco

At 6:30 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to begin the journey to Chinchero, located approximately one hour from the city.

During the visit, you will discover this traditional Andean town, characterized by its adobe houses, cobblestone streets, and residents who still preserve many of their ancestral customs. If you wish, you can watch a demonstration of the traditional process of washing, dyeing, and spinning wool using natural plants and minerals.

We will also visit the Chinchero archaeological complex and its colonial temple, structures that reflect the combination of Inca and colonial heritage in the area.

We will then continue to Moray, a fascinating archaeological complex consisting of concentric circular terraces. It is believed that the Incas used this site as a center for agricultural experimentation, where they studied different climate conditions and adapted various crops. During the visit, our guide will explain the function of the terraces and their advanced drainage system.

Next, we will travel approximately 20 minutes to the Maras Salt Mines, an impressive collection of hundreds of salt pools built along a mountainside. These pools are fed by a natural saltwater spring and have been used since pre-Inca times for the traditional extraction of salt.

After the visit, we will continue to Urubamba, in the heart of the Sacred Valley, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch.

In the afternoon, we will head to Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru. Its narrow stone streets, water channels, and original structures provide a glimpse into urban planning during the Inca period.

At the upper part of the town, we will visit its impressive archaeological complex, where you will find terraces, ceremonial enclosures, and structures that served religious, strategic, and defensive purposes.

Finally, at around 4:30 p.m., we will board the train to Aguas Calientes. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, passing through beautiful Andean landscapes.

Upon arrival at Aguas Calientes station, our staff will be waiting to accompany you to your hotel. You will have time to rest and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

In the evening, you will receive a brief explanation about the schedule and details of your visit to Machu Picchu.

Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

Today is the day you will visit Machu Picchu

After planning your trip, today you will finally visit Machu Picchu, one of the most impressive wonders of the world.

To begin your visit, from Aguas Calientes you will take the bus that will take you directly to the entrance of the citadel. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes, and the bus ticket is included in our package.

Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Buses depart from Aguas Calientes and take you directly to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Duration: approximately 25 minutes
Bus ticket: included in the tour

Machu Picchu Entrance Time

Your entrance time will depend on availability at the time of booking and the circuit assigned on your admission ticket.

We recommend reviewing your entrance time in advance so you can properly plan your arrival at the citadel entrance.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Once inside Machu Picchu, you will enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately 2 hours.

During the tour, you will visit some of the main areas of the citadel, including temples, Inca enclosures, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial areas.

Our guide will share the history of Machu Picchu with you and explain its architecture, culture, and the extraordinary engineering techniques developed by the Incas.

Return to Aguas Calientes

At the end of the visit, you will once again take the bus back to Aguas Calientes.

Once in town, you will have free time for lunch and to rest before heading to the train station. Remember to arrive with enough time to board your return train.

Would You Like to Visit Huayna Picchu?

You can also add the hike to Huayna Picchu, provided there is availability and you have purchased the corresponding ticket in advance.

Entrance times are:

Group 1: 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Group 2: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

The time of your hike will depend on the ticket purchased and may take place before or after your visit to the citadel.

Important: Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain are different attractions. Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain requires an additional ticket and is subject to availability.

If you would like to include Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in your experience, please let us know in advance so we can check ticket availability.

Overnight stay in Lima.

The day will begin with pickup from your accommodation in Cusco between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. From there, we will travel by tourist transportation south of Cusco to the town of Cusipata, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Upon arrival in Cusipata, we will enjoy breakfast before continuing toward the access area for Rainbow Mountain. This second part of the journey will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Along the way, you will be able to appreciate beautiful high-Andean landscapes and, with a little luck, observe some local wildlife.

Upon reaching the starting point of the hike, we will begin an ascent of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Along the way, you will enjoy impressive views of mountains, snowcapped peaks, and extensive Andean landscapes.

Finally, we will reach the Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, viewpoint, where you will have time to admire its distinctive natural formations, enjoy the scenery, and take photographs.

After the visit, we will begin our return along the same route with a hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Afterward, we will head to the restaurant to enjoy lunch before beginning the journey back to Cusco.

Arrival in the city is expected between 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Overnight stay in Cusco.

After a restful night, you will have the morning free to relax, take care of personal activities, or explore the city at your own pace.

You can begin by visiting Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, the heart of the historic center, surrounded by colonial architecture, churches, restaurants, and vibrant local life.

Cusco also offers many ideal spots for taking photographs and experiencing the essence of the city. A great option is to visit San Pedro Market, where you will find colorful fruit stalls, local products, handicrafts, and traditional textiles.

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can head to the San Blas Viewpoint, where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the city’s rooftops.

You can also explore the picturesque streets of the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artistic atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, and small local shops.

Overnight stay in Cusco.

The trip begins in the city of Cusco at approximately 4:30 a.m. (we will pick you up from your accommodation). After a two-and-a-half-hour drive, we will arrive in the town of Mollepata, where we will have breakfast. The journey continues for approximately 45 minutes until we reach Soraypampa (3,870 meters), an area used for camping. From here, we will begin an approximately one-and-a-half-hour hike to the beautiful Humantay Lake.

Without a doubt, you will be amazed by the turquoise color of Humantay Lake, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters. Although you may feel slightly out of breath, you will be very happy to be in this beautiful and impressive place. You will also be able to see two great mountains, Humantay and Salkantay, both considered sacred by the Incas.

After enjoying the tranquility and beautiful scenery, we will begin our return to Soraypampa, which will take approximately one and a half hours on foot. We will then head back to the town of Mollepata for lunch. On the journey back to our final destination, we will be able to enjoy more beautiful landscapes and a wonderful sunset. Finally, tired but happy, we will arrive in the city of Cusco at approximately 6:00 p.m.

Overnight stay in Cusco.

This day will begin with pickups at 5:00 a.m. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer you to the bus station. At 6:00 a.m., we will begin our journey to Puno, traveling through the landscapes of the Andean highlands and making several cultural and historical stops along the way.

Andahuaylillas Chapel – The Sistine Chapel of the Americas

Our first stop will be Andahuaylillas, a small town known for its impressive 17th-century colonial church. Inside, you can admire beautiful murals, altars, and works of art from the Cusco School, combining elements of European and Andean traditions. The visit will last approximately 25 minutes.

Important: Photography and video recording are not permitted inside the church.

We will continue our journey toward Raqchi.

Raqchi Archaeological Complex

We will visit the Raqchi Archaeological Complex, one of the most important sites along the route. Here we will see the famous Temple of Wiracocha, as well as its enormous walls, columns, and ancient Inca storehouses, or colcas. The visit will last approximately 40 minutes. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about the traditions and handicrafts of the local communities.

We will then continue to Sicuani, where we will stop for lunch.

Lunch in Sicuani

We will enjoy a buffet lunch at a selected restaurant, with different meal options available before continuing our journey to Puno.

La Raya Pass

After lunch, we will continue toward La Raya, located at 4,335 meters above sea level, considered the highest point of our route and the geographical boundary between Cusco and Puno. From here, you can enjoy impressive views of the Andean highlands and, if weather conditions permit, see the snowcapped Chimboya Mountain.

You will have approximately 10 minutes to enjoy the scenery and take photographs. During the journey, we will also offer you coca tea.

Pukara Museum

Our final stop will be the Pukara Museum, where we will learn more about the Pukara culture, one of the earliest major societies to develop in the Lake Titicaca basin. During the visit, you will be able to see ceramics, sculptures, and animal representations that provide a better understanding of the history and traditions of this ancient Andean culture.

The visit will last approximately 30 minutes.

Arrival in Puno

Finally, we will continue our journey to Puno, traveling through the landscapes of the Peruvian highlands. Arrival in Puno is expected at approximately 5:00 p.m., where our Route of the Sun journey will come to an end.

Overnight stay in Puno

At 7:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your accommodation in Puno and transfer you to the port of Puno. From there, we will board a motorized boat across Lake Titicaca toward the Uros Floating Islands. These remarkable islands were created centuries ago by the Indigenous Uros people as a means of isolation and protection from rival groups such as the Collas and the Incas. The Uros people built these floating platforms using reeds harvested from the lake, along with reed houses and canoes, creating their own unique world.

Upon arrival, our local guide will provide information about the Uros people’s lifestyle and customs, a culture that dates back to pre-Inca times. After exploring the floating islands, we will continue our journey to Taquile Island, which will take approximately 2 hours. Taquile is home to a Quechua-speaking community known for its ancient agricultural terraces.

The island remained relatively isolated from the mainland until the 1950s. The Taquileños, as the local residents are known, maintain a society based on community collectivism and Inca moral codes. Their weaving tradition, preserved since early civilizations, includes intricate designs created on pre-Inca looms. Notable garments include the “Chullo,” a wool hat with earflaps, and the “Calendar Waistband,” which reflects annual cycles associated with rituals and agriculture. Upon arriving at Taquile Island, we will walk along a narrow trail offering impressive views of Lake Titicaca and picturesque houses inhabited by descendants of the Incas. You will have the option to enjoy local cuisine for lunch. Afterward, we will descend to the port and take the boat back to Puno, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m.

Overnight stay in Puno

At the previously coordinated time, we will pick you up from your hotel in Puno and transfer you to Juliaca Airport for your return flight.

This service marks the end of our 11-day journey through Peru, after visiting Lima, Paracas, the Ballestas Islands, Huacachina, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, the Route of the Sun, Puno, and Lake Titicaca.

We recommend booking as far in advance as possible, especially if you are traveling during the high season.

Machu Picchu entrance tickets are sold for specific time slots and circuits, and availability may sell out several months in advance.

Booking early allows us to better arrange your admission ticket, visiting time, available circuit, train tickets, and other services related to Machu Picchu.

If you book with little advance notice, we can check the available options, but we cannot guarantee a specific circuit or entry time until the tickets are officially confirmed.

This package combines private or coordinated transfers with group tourism services in the different destinations. During excursions, you may share the service with other travelers, while our representatives coordinate the transfers, tickets, and included services according to the itinerary.

Pickup times and the details of each excursion will be confirmed in advance by our team.

The package includes accommodation for 8 nights distributed between Lima, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes.

We work with different hotel categories, so you can select the option that best fits your needs and budget. The category and available hotels will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Hotel availability may vary depending on the season and how far in advance the reservation is made.

Yes. The listed times are approximate and may be modified due to weather conditions, traffic, train availability, buses, entrance tickets, flights, or other operational circumstances.

Any necessary changes will be communicated by our team in a timely manner while making every effort to maintain all activities included in the program.

The package includes only the meals specifically mentioned in each day’s itinerary.

Scheduled services include breakfasts and lunches on certain excursions, such as the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, and other tours included in the program.

Any breakfasts, lunches, or dinners not specified in the itinerary must be paid for directly by the traveler.

During the 15-day package, transfers are provided through a combination of tourist transportation, intercity buses, trains, and coordinated transfers between hotels, terminals, and airports.

Our team will inform you in advance about pickup times, meeting points, and the details of each transfer. At destinations where applicable, a representative will be waiting for your arrival to assist you and transfer you to the selected hotel.

Some routes, such as Nazca – Arequipa, Chivay – Puno, and Puno – Cusco, are operated using tourist services or scheduled buses, while the journey to Aguas Calientes is by train.

We recommend being ready in advance for each departure and following the indicated schedules, especially for bus and train services.

During the trip, you will experience different weather conditions due to Peru’s geographic diversity.

Lima, Paracas, Ica, and Nazca generally have milder or warmer climates, while Cusco and Puno can experience considerably lower temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.

At high-altitude destinations such as Puno and Rainbow Mountain, temperatures can drop significantly. For this reason, we recommend bringing lightweight clothing, thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, and several warm layers.

Because the program includes overland transfers, tourist buses, trains, and different hotels, we recommend traveling with practical luggage and avoiding unnecessary items.

For daily excursions, we recommend using a small daypack where you can carry water, sunscreen, documents, a camera, warm clothing, and personal items.

Specific luggage restrictions established by the railway company may apply to the train journey to Aguas Calientes. Our team will inform you in advance about the conditions that apply to your service.

During this trip, you will visit several high-altitude destinations, including Cusco, Puno, the Colca Valley, and Rainbow Mountain.

We recommend getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, avoiding intense physical exertion during your first hours at altitude, and following your guide’s instructions.

If you have a medical condition or regularly take medication, we recommend consulting your doctor before traveling and informing us of any relevant information before your arrival.

You do not need to be an experienced traveler, but we do recommend having a basic level of physical fitness, as the itinerary includes hikes, archaeological visits, and activities at high-altitude destinations.

Most tours are conducted at a moderate pace and accompanied by professional guides. However, some activities, such as Rainbow Mountain, require greater physical effort because of the hike and altitude.

If you have a medical condition, difficulty walking, or concerns related to altitude, we recommend informing us before booking so we can advise you appropriately.

Yes. Depending on availability, some activities may be modified, replaced, or extended before the reservation is confirmed.

We can also evaluate additional services, different hotel categories, special admission tickets, or complementary activities.

Any modification may result in a change to the final package price and will be subject to availability.