Peru with Machu Picchu & the Nazca Lines - Small Group

Peru with Machu Picchu & the Nazca Lines - Small Group

17 Views
13 Days From

$6428

$5833

Peru with Machu Picchu & the Nazca Lines - Small Group

13 Days Starting and ending in Lima

Visiting: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Paracas, Nazca, Ballestas Islands

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SZPERPN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $6428 $5833 Operator discount: -$595

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Feast on Peruvian delicacies in Lima, tour the ancient Korikancha temple in Cusco and adventure through the Ollantaytambo ruins of Machu Picchu, on this 13-Day exploration of Peru. Embark on a Private Planetarium Tour in Cusco and uncover the influence of astronomy on Andean culture. Join a Local Expert in Machu Picchu for a guided tour through the ancient ruins—set high in the Andes against breathtaking backdrops. Visit the salt pans of Maras in the Sacred Valley where the Incas used to harvest the mineral and visit with a local Quechua Weaver to learn their ancient weaving techinques in a private presentation. In Paracus, be sure to pause at the Pisco distillery to sample this tasty local aperitif.

Highlights

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    Choice Highlights

    • Choose between two carefully selected activities
    • Cusco: Join a guided hike of the Inca ruins in Puca Pucara.
    • Cusco: Delight your senses during a guided tour of the San Pedro Market.

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    Top Rated Highlights

    • Machu Picchu: Transfer to the station for your 360° IncaRail train ride. This train ride offers an unforgettable experience journeying through the Andes Mountains in style with large panoramic views allowing guests to enjoy the amazing scenery of the lush mountains and the Urubamba River en route to Machu Piccu Pueblo.
    • Sacred Valley: On the way, visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, consisting of a large fortress built in the 1400s, a stepped terrace, and an area known as the Princess Baths, where ceremonial bathing took place. Later, stop by a a local house in the village and meet the family living there.
    • Aguas Calientes: Peru’s Incan history and archaeology will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. With a full day, you have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a different circuit. Or, take advantage of a day at leisure in Aguas Caliente – the town of Machu Picchu of 3,400 residents - to stroll along the river, go shopping for that perfect local souvenir or grab a coffee all midst the cloud forest.
    • Cusco: Once you arrive, head on a walking tour of Cusco with a Local Expert. Explore what's known as the "historic capital" of Peru as you discover its ancestral magic through visits to the cathedral and the Qorikancha temple.
    • Cusco: Start your day with a walking tour of Cusco, before heading to Sacsayhuaman.
    • Paracas: A windswept coastline and haven for wildlife. The Ballestas Islands are a wildlife sanctuary that hold over 200 species of birds including Peruvian boobies, Inca terns, pelicans, red-legged cormorants and Humboldt penguins. You’ll treasure this opportunity to see these penguins in their natural habitat alongside a plethora of different birds.
    • Paracas: The pride of Peru and their national drink, Pisco is a must-try on any trip to Peru. Visit the beautiful Hacienda La Caravedo to learn about how Pisco was traditionally made on this unique opportunity to see the oldest, continuously operating distillery in the Americas established in 1684 and the biggest distillery in South America. In addition to learning about this tasty beverage, you’ll love learning how the distillery has plants on their rooftop to offset Co2 emissions.
    • Cathedral of Lima: This morning, explore Peru's buzzing capital with your Local Expert, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall.
    • Lima: After lunch, meet a local guide who will take you around the Museo Larco, a private museum located in Lima's Pueblo Libre District and home to the largest collection of Pre-Columbian art.
    • Sacred Valley: The Maras Salt Mine will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. Learn how salt once harvested by Incas at this site is now exported to the entire world. Discover how the Incas found a water stream with high salt content and learned - in Pre-Incan times - how to build terraces to extract salt. You’ll be amazed at how, to this day, it is not known where the water actually comes from and has only been measured in the last 20 years during which the flow and intensity has not changed.
    • Sacred Valley: Peru’s Incan history and archaeology will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. At the Moray Incan laboratory northwest of Cusco, learn how the Incas determined the ideal altitude to grow crops in the Sacred Valley. You’ll be fascinated by how this ancient culture learned how to build these terraced circular depressions on a high plateau at an altitude of about 11,500 feet and experimented with different kinds of soils and temperatures to grow their crops.

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    Make Travel Matter

    Sacred Valley: Visit a local traditional Quechua weaver in the Sacred Valley for a private textile presentation. You'll learn about ancient weaving techniques and the importance these textiles have in shaping personal and regional identities.

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    Authentic Dining

    Cusco: Enjoy an immersive slow-cooked Cusquenian lunch at Pacha Papa. Lunch will be served al fresco at the courtyard of a historic mansion in the artsy neighborhood of San Blas.

    Cusco: In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable Celebration Dinner at Inka Grill, where you'll embark on a journey of flavors from Ceviche Palteado to Quinotto and Aji de Gallina.

    Lima: Unwind at your luxury abode, before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers in the evening for a dinner.

    Lima:  Make your way to Lima's Pueblo Libre District and indulge on a lunch in the Museo Larco's 18th century garden.

    Sacred Valley: Make your way to the small lagoon of Laguna Piuray where you’ll enjoy your lunch of Pachamanca, a traditional Peruvian feast.

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    Insight Choice

    Cusco: Join a guided hike of the Inca ruins in Puca Pucara.

    Cusco: Delight your senses during a guided tour of the San Pedro Market.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To Lima

Location: Lima

Accommodation Name: MGallery Manto, Lima

Arrive in Lima for the first day of your journey. In the evening meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers at the hotel bar for a dinner and drinks.

Day 2: Explore Lima Relaxed Start

Location: Lima

Accommodation Name: MGallery Manto, Lima

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Explore the colorful capital of Peru this morning with your Local Expert. Delve into its colonial past and see key attractions, including the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace and City Hall. Visit Casa Aliaga, an impressive mansion that has been home to the Aliaga family for 17 generations. For those with an appreciation for art, head to Museo Larco, a private museum located in Lima’s Pueblo Libre District. It is the highest-rated museum in South America and houses the largest collection of Pre-Columbian art. Indulge in a Highlight Lunch with an 18th-century garden as your backdrop. After lunch, meet a Local Expert who will take you around the Museo Larco and share the museum’s private collection with you. Delve into Peruvian culture, its ancient history and the country's religious beliefs. Return to your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 3: Lima To Sacred Valley

Location: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley

Accommodation Name: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, Urubamba

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Take a transfer to the airport in the morning, where you'll catch your flight to the ancient capital of Cusco. Begin your tour of the Sacred Valley, while taking in impressive views on your scenic drive along the way. After a few stunning photo stops, enjoy lunch at Altar Inca, surrounded by some of the most impressive views of the region. Enjoy a leisurely trip to your hotel for the next couple of nights, where the evening is yours to do as you please. We recommend that you rest in order to adjust to the altitude comfortably.

Day 4: Explore Sacred Valley Relaxed Start

Location: Sacred Valley

Accommodation Name: Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness, Urubamba

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Start the morning off with a visit to the Maras salt pans, where the Incas harvested their salt. Today, the salt from Maras is exported to the entire world. Move on to an Incan laboratory in Moray, an archaeological site close to Cusco. Find out more about the ideal altitude to grow crops in the Sacred Valley. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience as you visit a local traditional Quechua weaver in the Sacred Valley and learn about the importance these textiles have in shaping personal and regional identities. Afterward, make your way to Laguna Piuray, where you’ll enjoy a Pachamanca, a traditional Peruvian feast, for your Highlight Lunch. In the evening, transfer to Hacienda Huayoccari, where you'll discover this gem of the Sacred Valley while exploring its grounds and small museum. Sit down for a special Peruvian dinner before heading back to your hotel, the luxurious Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel.

Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu Relaxed Start

Location: Machu Picchu

Accommodation Name: Sumaq Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer to the station for your IncaRail train ride. Enjoy lunch on your way to Machu Picchu pueblo, the gateway village to Machu Picchu. On the way, visit the Ollantaytambo ruins, followed by a stop at a local house in the village’s cobblestoned old town and visit with the family living there. In the afternoon, visit Machu Picchu, where you’ll meet your Local Experts for a guided visit in small groups. They will take you through the ruins and explain their historical and archaeological significance, as well as the importance of their location. Set high in the Andes Mountains, it offers spectacular scenery and history, dating back to the 15th century. End your day with a relaxing dinner and drinks at your hotel.

Day 6: Machu Picchu At Leisure Relaxed Start

Location: Machu Picchu

Accommodation Name: Sumaq Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take in the breathtaking landscapes of Machu Picchu for a second time. Spend your morning exploring at your own pace, with your Travel Director on hand to answer any queries you may have. The afternoon is yours at leisure. Relax back at your hotel or perhaps explore the town of Aguas Calientes on your own. Spend the evening as you please before sitting down to a Highlight Dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 7: On To Cusco Relaxed Start

Location: Machu Picchu, Cusco

Accommodation Name: JW Marriott El Convento, Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, return by train to Ollantaytambo, where you will transfer to the ancient city of Cusco. Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco showcases a mix of Spanish colonial architecture, ancient remains and a lively cosmopolitan scene for modern inhabitants. On arrival in Cusco, head out on a walking tour with a Local Expert. Visit its cathedral and the Qorikancha temple, the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The evening is yours at leisure. Ask your Travel Director for local restaurant and bar recommendations.

Day 8: Exploring Cusco Relaxed Start

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: JW Marriott El Convento, Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day with a walking tour of Sacsayhuaman. Afterwards, explore with Insight Choice. Choose to join a Local Expert on a guided hike of the Inca ruins at Puca Pucara. Alternatively, you can explore the lively and colorful San Pedro Market. Later, make your way to the city’s planetarium for a private, after-hours tour, sample some local delicacies and hot wine as you gaze at the night sky.

Day 9: Leisure Time In Cusco Relaxed Start

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: JW Marriott El Convento, Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, explore Cusco at your own pace. Perhaps head out on an optional visit to the ChocoMuseo to learn about chocolate making. Another active option is a hike to the Rainbow Mountain. Or maybe relax and unwind at your hotel, set in a beautiful 16th- century building. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable dinner at Inka Grill.

Day 10: From The Andes To The Coast

Location: Cusco, Lima, Paracas

Accommodation Name: Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Depart Cusco and fly to Lima. From here, enjoy a leisurely coastal drive to the beach town of Paracas. Known for its sandy beaches, wildlife and the Paracas Candelabra geoglyph. With the rest of your evening free, take the opportunity to relax at your beautiful resort right on the beach. Take a cooling dip in one of their two swimming pools or stroll through the fragrant gardens.

Day 11: Paracas & The Nazca Lines

Location: Paracas, Nazca, Paracas

Accommodation Name: Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take in the area from above with an aircraft ride over the mysterious Nazca Lines. This is truly the best way to experience this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site in all its glory. Then head to Ica, stop at a local museum, where you’ll learn more about the city’s culture.

Day 12: Ballestas Islands And Peruvian Wildlife

Location: Paracas, Ballestas Islands, Paracas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Have your cameras at the ready as you head out on a scenic cruise to the Ballestas Islands famous for their rock formations and marine life. Explore this beautiful area before heading to visit a pisco distillery for a tasting of the local spirit. Then head to Ica, stop at a local museum where you'll learn more about the city's culture.

Day 13: Chincha And Return To Lima

Location: Paracas, Lima

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Embark on your return to Lima, stopping at Hacienda San Jose. You'll get a tour of the plantation and learn more about a dark chapter in Peruvian history and the area's heart-breaking past of slavery in the cotton business. End your tour in Lima.

What's Included

  • Meals

    9 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners with Wine, and 5 Lunches are included.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours of key attractions including the Cathedral of Lima, Government Palace, Archbishop’s Palace, City Hall, Casa Aliaga, Museo Larco, Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman, Puca Pucara, San Pedro Market, and Cusco's planetarium.

  • Transportation

    Economy air and air-related charges for flights between Lima and Cusco, IncaRail train ride to Machu Picchu, and private flight over the Nazca Lines.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation at MGallery Manto in Lima, Sumaq Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes, JW Marriott El Convento in Cusco, and Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort.

  • Special Experiences

    Visits to Ollantaytambo ruins, a local house in the village, Ballestas Islands, a pisco distillery, and Hacienda San Jose.

  • Local Experts

    Local experts to guide you through various historical and cultural sites.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional visits to the ChocoMuseo, Rainbow Mountain hike, and additional activities in Aguas Calientes.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages not mentioned in the inclusions.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Medical Expenses

    Any medical expenses or consultations are not included.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy seamless transportation including economy flights between Lima and Cusco, scenic IncaRail train rides, and a private aircraft ride over the Nazca Lines.

Accommodation

Stay in luxurious accommodations including MGallery Manto in Lima, Sumaq Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes, JW Marriott El Convento in Cusco, and Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort in Paracas.

Dining Summary

  • 12 Breakfast (B)
  • 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 7 Lunch (L)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Prices include economy air and air-related charges for the flights between Lima - Cusco. This trip experiences high elevations, we recommend guests with pre-existing medical conditions talk with a doctor prior to travel.

Insight Experiences

  • Machu Picchu: Enjoy a guided visit with a Local Expert.
  • Cusco: Visit Cusco's planetarium to learn more on how the Incas interpreted the stars. After a reception with hot wine (or tea) and appetizers, local experts will explain and share stories about the influence the stars had on Andean culture. You'll then be led to a room specially accommodated to view the ancient night skies, weather permitting.
  • Paracas: Take to the skies on your Peru tour to see the iconic Nazca Lines, archaeological enigmas scratched in the ground 500 B.C. and A.D. 500. Gaze down in awe of these massive designs and patterns you can only view from above. Your private flight will show you many of the lines, complete with their names and a bit of history. From above, you’ll observe the different types: straight, geometric (such as triangles, rectangles, trapezoids, spirals, arrows, zigzags, and wavy lines), and pictorial (including a spider, hummingbird, cactus plant, monkey, whale, llama, duck, flower, tree, lizard, dog, and even a mysterious humanoid figure). Some of the animal geoglyphs are up to 1,200 feet long! You’ll also learn why the Nazca culture created these lines in the desert plains of the Rio Grande de Nazca River basin and how the Nazca people were able to carve out such massive designs.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities can I choose from in Cusco?

    In Cusco, you can choose between a guided hike of the Inca ruins at Puca Pucara or a guided tour of the lively and colorful San Pedro Market.

  • What can I expect during the visit to the Nazca Lines?

    During the visit to the Nazca Lines, you will take a private flight to see the iconic archaeological enigmas from above. You will observe various types of lines, including straight, geometric, and pictorial designs such as a spider, hummingbird, and monkey. The flight will also include explanations about the history and significance of these massive designs.

  • What is included in the tour of Machu Picchu?

    The tour of Machu Picchu includes a guided visit with Local Experts who will explain the historical and archaeological significance of the ruins. You will also enjoy a 360° IncaRail train ride with panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River.

  • What unique experiences are offered in Paracas?

    In Paracas, you will take a scenic cruise to the Ballestas Islands, known for their rock formations and marine life. You will also visit a pisco distillery to learn about and taste the local spirit, and take a private flight over the Nazca Lines.

  • What can I do during my leisure time in Aguas Calientes?

    During your leisure time in Aguas Calientes, you can return to Machu Picchu for a different circuit, stroll along the river, go shopping for local souvenirs, or relax and grab a coffee amidst the cloud forest.

  • What is the significance of the visit to Hacienda San Jose?

    The visit to Hacienda San Jose includes a tour of the plantation where you will learn about a dark chapter in Peruvian history, specifically the area's past of slavery in the cotton business.

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners with wine. Some of the meals are served in unique settings, such as an 18th-century garden at Museo Larco and a courtyard of a historic mansion in Cusco.

  • What can I expect from the visit to Cusco's planetarium?

    At Cusco's planetarium, you will learn about how the Incas interpreted the stars. The visit includes a reception with hot wine or tea and appetizers, followed by explanations from local experts about the influence of the stars on Andean culture. Weather permitting, you will also have the opportunity to view the ancient night skies.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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Saturday - Thursday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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