Peru and Bolivia Beautiful Itinerary

After arriving to Lima Jorge Chavez International airport and clearing immigration and customs, transfer to your accommodation on your own.

If your flight arrives later in the afternoon and the next day you have an early flight in the morning, we advise you to stay in the very comfortable hotel Costal del Sol Wyndham of the airport (additional price to consult with our travel advisors).

We can provide you an arrival and departure transfer in private transportation

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Transfer to the airport on your own.  We highly recommend you to arrive at the Jorge Chavez airport two hours before your flight departure.  An early flight to Cusco (3400 masl) is advisable.  Meeting with our representative at the Alejandro Velasco Astete airport and transfer to your accommodation.  You will have some free time to acclimatize to the altitude taking things very slowly wandering around the magic city of Cusco also considered as the Navel of the World.

In the afternoon you will be picked up from your hotel on a vehicle to the city’s greatest landmarks. Explore the magical capital of the Incas in a tour that includes the Plaza de Armas, the famous Baroque style Cathedral considered one of the most splendid Spanish colonial churches in the Americas, built over an important Inca temple, with amazing altars, intricately wood carved pulpits, choir and multitude of paintings of the Cusqueña school, including a Marcos Zapata painting of the Last Supper with a local specialty, cuy (guinea pig), as the main dish.  You will continue with the visit of the Santo Domingo monastery, which was built over the Koricancha temple, one of the most important temples dedicated to the worship of the sun. According to the chronicles, it was covered in gold leaf and filled with golden representations of nature. Stop at San Cristobal lookout point for a magnificent view of the city of Cusco, before proceeding to the nearby remarkable Inca ruins in the area: the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the temple and amphitheatre of Kenko, and the archeological site of Tambomachay, where the god “water” was worshipped. Return to your hotel.  On your own you can explore the nightlife in Cusco´s varied and exciting pubs where there is plenty of live folk music and good food to enjoy in a lively atmosphere.

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Love to Cook? Peruvian Cuisine is widely regarded one of the most delicious and diverse in the world. Our kitchen provides the perfect setting for your hands-on cooking lessons and demonstrations with our talented Peruvian chefs.  Our products are bought from the local markets and providers, whom you will get to know during our market tour.

If you are more active, ATV, biking, rafting, yoga classes in front of a beautiful lagoon or Vía Ferrata excursions can be arranged according to your preferences.

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THE ORDER OF THIS TOUR MAY BE MODIFIED WITHOUT PREVIOUS NOTICE, AND AS YOU WILL STAY IN OLLANTAYTAMBO TO TAKE THE TRAIN TO AGUAS CALIENTES YOU MAY PROBABLY LOSE SOME ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE THAN CAN BE VISITED ON THE RETURN WAY TO CUSCO CITY

You are one step closer to the highlight of this trip: Machu Picchu the most treasured city of the Incas, but to reach the Lost City, you have to venture into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, which is full of surprises.

Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel to the town of Chinchero, which is about 40 minutes from Cusco, on the way you will enjoy beautiful Andean landscapes highlighted by the beauty of the snowy Chicón and Verónica of the Urubamba Mountain Range . Chinchero is a clearly Inca town, with its unique colonial church built by the Spaniards on top of an Inca palace where the past persists stubbornly, as if the spirit of a millenary culture clung to this place refusing to disappear. The native settlers, dressed in colorful traditional costumes, come down from their communities and gather in the main square to exchange their products, preserving many of their ancestral traditions. Seeing this group of people with deep cultural roots is a sight worth admiring.

Afterwards, you will visit the Inca agricultural laboratory of Moray, where several groupings of terraces were formed in an almost perfect circular shape at different heights, in order to achieve a gradient of microclimates with the aim of getting perfect crops. There, the Incas cultivated important foods for their diet such as corn, or the grain of quinoa, also various medicinal plants such as panti, ornamental as the flowers of Kantu and carried out many experiments of cultivation for recreation of their masters. A system of canals where today the rain is deposited assured the irrigation of the hanging terraces of the great amphitheater, the perfection of Moray was such, that to this day, it works impeccably.

Then you will visit to the famous salt mines of Maras, which were very important for the Incas as a salt supply and are still in operation today. For a few Soles you can buy a package of this salt, famous for having many more minerals than sea salt. In addition to its historical importance, the salt mines of Maras also offer an unforgettable view with the stark white of its steeply descending salt pans juxtaposed against the green of the surrounding mountain slopes.

Next, you will continue with the visit to the impressive archaeological complex of Pisac allowing you to enjoy some of the best archaeological complexes in the area. Its exquisitely carved walls are among the most perfect of all Andean architecture, surrounded by an impressive group of terraces that are still used as well as its granaries and pantries that are still preserved in the hillside irrefutable proof of the wisdom of the men who populated that zone. Then you will go down to the famous market town of Pisac, where you will test your bargaining skills in a colorful and cheerful environment, and you can stock up on souvenirs for friends and family!

Finally, you will visit the formidable fortress temple of Ollantaytambo, the spectacular archaeological complex that seems to have been a kind of walled gate that stopped in several war expeditions trying to reach the Inca treasure, the great steep andeneria, which protects this spectacular fortress, marks one of the few places where the Spanish conquerors lost an important battle in the year 1537.

In the highest part you will find a ceremonial center with huge blocks of stone perfectly carved in a very fine work. To build it, stones from the quarry located on the other side of the Urubamba River were used 6 km away. from distance, which shows the great ability of the Incas to transport these huge blocks using an ingenious technique that would allow them to transport them across mountainous areas and the torrential Urubamba River.

After this complete day, you will hop on board of one of the prettiest train rides in South America with final destination Machu Picchu, which rises enigmatic among the clouds of the majestic Andes (Expedition train leaving 19:04 arriving 20:45). The citadel was probably the most impressive urban creation of the Inca Empire in its heyday. Its giant walls, terraces and ramps look as if they had been carved naturally in the escarpments of the rock.

This natural environment located on the eastern slopes of the Andes encompasses the upper Amazon basin, with its rich diversity of flora and fauna. At night, visit the bars along the railroad tracks to share stories with some of the hikers who successfully completed the Inca Trail, or end your fantastic day relaxing the muscles in the hot springs.

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We highly recommend having an extra day in the Sacred Valley. Many visitors without a lot of time on their hands almost race through the valley’s highlights and markets on a daylong guided tour. Seeing it this way is certainly a worthwhile experience, but it really doesn’t compare to experiencing everything the valley has to offer at a more leisurely pace that allows you an overnight stay or two in the valley and the chance to soak up the area’s immense history, relaxed character, stunning scenery, and in the dry season, gorgeous spring weather.
IMPORTANT NOTES!

• If you do want to see the beautiful scenery and ancient buildings of Machu Picchu, book your trip early.  The Peruvian Government has placed a limit on the number of people allowed to hike the trails of the citadel per day and entrances tend to book up quickly.
• For active people there is the option of hiking the one day Inca Trail or the more demanding 4 days trekking but be sure to inform us well in advance as in high season they tend to book up quickly, ask our expert travel planners to upgrade your experience
• For those who want to hike the Huayna Picchu mountain reservations has to be made well in advance, as the local authorities just allow 400 persons per day in two shifts of 200 persons each one (there is an additional to pay for this entrance)
• You might be interested in upgrading your train experience if this is the case please contact our expert travel planners

When, in 1911, the American archaeologist and historian Hiram Bingham discovered “The Lost City of the Inca Empire”, he could not imagine that he had reached the most enigmatic Inca ruins, one of the most spectacular and overwhelming places on earth that still conserves its mystery, charm and mystical appeal, despite its enormous popularity, even more so after having been designated one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Exploring the place continues to be an exciting experience, especially at dawn, when the scenic rays of light extend over the Andean peaks. At the indicated time you will approach the station to board the bus that goes up to the citadel. After the guided tour, you will descend from the archaeological zone to the station, and embark on the train Expedition, which will meander slowly through the Andean landscape until you reach Poroy train station, where you will be transferred to the vehicle that will take you back to Cusco.

Lunch
This touristic bus offers one of the most spectacular trips to explore the “Ruta del Sol” with stops in strategic places to discover the diversity of landscapes, Andean villages and Inca archaeological sites settled in the Cusco- Puno corridor.

The first stop will be the Chapel of Andahuaylillas, referred to as the Andean Sistine Chapel owing to its magnificent frescoes being a superb example of the prominent 17th century Mestizo Baroque style of architecture, which is typical of the Cusco School. Take the time to marvel at the ceiling of carved panels covered with gold leaf. The next stop will be in Raqchi one of the most important temples dedicated to the Inca God Wiracocha, your journey will continue until arriving at Abra La Raya (4338 m or 14,232 feet), the watershed between the valley that drains into Lake Titicaca and the valley that leads down to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Pukara will be the last visit before arriving to Puno, it was the first regional population center in the northern end of Lake Titicaca Basin during the Late Formative Period (500 BC- AD 200), and will provide valuable insights into the origins of Andean civilization in the highlands.

Around 5 pm, arrival at Puno, charming small town and folk capital of Peru, located at 3800m altitude, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Reception at the bus station and transfer to the accommodation.

Lunch
This excursion begins with a transfer from your Puno hotel to the port. Depart on the fully equipped speedboat with services on board to the south of Taquile Island.  Hike through a pre-Inca trail with spectacular landscapes of the island, visiting families of weavers to learn about their textile art and symbolism that has been declared by UNESCO as world heritage. Leave the island and arrive to the community of Santa Maria – Llachon, on the Capachica Peninsula where you will be welcomed and quickly introduced to an intensive cross-cultural experience, observe their traditions and participate in an ancient ceremony to learn about their magical world. Then experience the preparation of “Pachamanca” a traditional way of cooking meat and vegetables using underground ovens, this is one of the main dishes of the Peruvian cuisine. Enjoy this delicacy in a small, but very scenic, restaurant. For the more adventurous there is an optional kayak along the coast of Llachon (ask for additional price). After leaving Santa Maria, you will arrive at Uros Titino islands, located in a remote area of the National Reserve of Lake Titicaca, these are considered as the last authentic floating islands, less commercial and little visited. Their inhabitants are descendants of one of the oldest cultures in South America. Optional tours in reed boats are available. At the end of the journey, return to Puno and transfer to your lodging.

MAKE IT DIFFERENT! (OPTIONAL)
If you want a more active experience, go kayaking in the highest navigable lake in the world.
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Early in the morning you will be transferred to the bus station to begin an interesting bus ride along the Lake Titicaca shores, traversing the vast altiplano giving you the opportunity to enjoy nice views of the lake and of the impressive Royal mountain range.

The bus will leave from Puno city  (07:30) until Kasani (09:30), the border between Peru and Bolivia, where you will have to make the immigration process in both borders (don’t forget to take your passport), then you will continue to Copacabana (11:30 Bolivian time), this beautiful village is famous throughout the Bolivian nation as cultural heritage for its religious celebrations and traditional festivals, a quick stop is scheduled to change the bus to a small one.  Arrival to la Paz is scheduled at 17:30 (Bolivian time).  Reception by our staff at the bus station and transfer to your hotel.

MAKE IT DIFFERENT! (OPTIONAL)
If you are looking for a more affordable budget, you have the option of a night bus from La Paz to Uyuni.
ASK OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS FOR THE BEST OPTION

Lunch on route
Early in the morning you will be picked up from your accommodation to be transferred to La Paz airport to board the flight to Uyuni.  Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our staff and initiate your adventure to Uyuni salt flats.

Placing you at the frontier of endless natural beauty, this day will provide you with an unforgettable travel and life experience.

The Salt Flats of Uyuni are by far Bolivia’s main attraction as they represent a unique experience, impossible to equal anywhere else in the world. This legendary prehistoric lake, called Lago Minchín, went dry between 30,000 to 42,000 years ago, leaving behind the most dazzling desert-like landscape of glistening bright-white salt flats, cacti-studded islands and rock formations.

You will start the tour by visiting the Train Cemetery, continuing towards the indigenous community of Colchani, observing the elaboration of iodized salt in its rustic form. You then enter to the white deserts in their fullness, observing the method of salt extraction, the piles of salt and the unique “eyes of salt”. Finally, you will enter the famous Incahuasi Island, a volcanic rock prehistoric island scattered by giant cacti, before arriving to your hotel to spend the night.The Salt Flats of Uyuni are by far Bolivia’s main attraction as they represent a unique experience, impossible to equal anywhere else in the world. This legendary prehistoric lake, called Lago Minchín, went dry between 30,000 to 42,000 years ago, leaving behind the most dazzling desert-like landscape of glistening bright-white salt flats, cacti-studded islands and rock formations.

You will start the tour by visiting the Train Cemetery, continuing towards the indigenous community of Colchani, observing the elaboration of iodized salt in its rustic form. You then enter to the white deserts in their fullness, observing the method of salt extraction, the piles of salt and the unique “eyes of salt”. Finally, you will enter the famous Incahuasi Island, a volcanic rock prehistoric island scattered by giant cacti, before arriving to your hotel to spend the night.

NOTES

• In rainy season (December – March) the Incahuasi Island is not visited since the Salt Flat is flooded and the landscape becomes a giant mirror that reflects the colors of the sky so the car will enter as far as possible.
• In each car can go up to 05 passengers + guide + driver.

MAKE IT DIFFERENT! (OPTIONAL)

• We strongly recommend an extra night in the famous Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve
• If you are looking for a more affordable budget, you have the option of a night bus from Uyuni to La Paz

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You will be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to the Uyuni airport for your flight to La Paz.  Upon arrival meet your guide and begin the city tour of La Paz.

As one of the seven wonder cities of the world, La Paz has so much culture and diversity to offer its visitors: today you will take a walking tour providing you with the perfect opportunity to observe and experience the lively nature of La Paz City; wonder through its unique alleys and lively markets; and learn about its unique culture and traditions. Throughout the entire time, you will be accompanied by a highly skilled bilingual local tour guide, who will be happy to answer any question you might have.  This is undoubtedly a great way to explore this unique city, providing you with an experience you won’t forget!

You will begin your day visiting the Valley of the Moon, (about 10 km south of La Paz), where you can walk a special path through the canyons, explore and enjoy this fascinating landscape. Afterwards enjoy the view of the city from the Cable Car, the longest and highest cable car network in the world.

After this ride on top of the world, you will continue to the visit of the city center visiting Plaza Murillo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Parliament, Jaen street to visit the museum it houses to finally arrive to the Witches Market, the craft shops of Sagarnaga Street and the atrium of the Church of San Francisco.

At the end of this tour you will be transferred to Laz Paz airport for your international flight.

ASK OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS ADVISORS TO UPGRADE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH A FULL DAY TO TIAHUANACO OR VISITING THE WONDERFUL SANTA CRUZ CITY OR CROSSING THE BORDER WITH CHILE AND EXPLORING THE ATACAMA DESERT, THE DRIEST IN THE WORLD