Compare Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu, Cusco & Sacred Valley Tour by Andean Discovery

Day 1: Home | Lima, Peru

Upon arriving in Lima this evening, a member of our staff will transfer you to your hotel, just steps away from the airport. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening.

Day 2: Lima | Paracas

Meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast, travel 4 hours by private vehicle to the Nazca Lines. Originally thought to be the remains of irrigation lines beyond the verdant Nazca Valley, it wasn’t until they were seen from the air that the lines were recognizable as giant animals and geometric figures. The lines are thought to have been etched by three different groups from 900 BC to AD 630. Take to the sky to see for yourself during a short, comfortable flight. Please note that, due to weather conditions, a short wait should be expected before boarding your flight. Lunch and dinner today are on your own.

Day 3: Paracas | Lima

Meals: Breakfast

This morning transfer 45 minutes to the pier in Paracas for a group boat trip to the Ballestas Islands. This extraordinary archipelago is teeming with wildlife including thousands of resident and migratory sea birds—pelicans, boobies, cormorants, terns, and penguins among them—along with sea lions and fur seals. The famous candlestick design, a Nazca civilization figure etched on the desert face, can also be seen during the boat ride. After returning to the mainland, explore Paracas National Reserve with your guide. A UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site, the reserve is home to 216 bird species. As you explore, learn about pre-Inca cultures who thrived in this rugged landscape over 1000 years ago. Transfer to Lima in the late afternoon and enjoy lunch and dinner today on your own.

Day 4: Lima | Cusco | Pisac | Urubamba

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning transfer to the airport for your short flight above the Andes Mountains to Cusco. Then journey down a winding mountain road into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The first stop is the indigenous market in Pisac, a centuries-old market that sells a variety of foods and colorful indigenous handicrafts. Above the market lies the largest fortress-city complex of the Incas. Your guide will lead you on a walking tour through the ruins and the hillside terraces, part of the sophisticated Inca agricultural system. You may opt to hike to the ruins from the Pisac market. After lunch check in at your cozy Andean lodge.

Day 5: Urubamba | Machu Picchu

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Experience one of the world’s great train rides, with stunning views of the Urubamba river gorge, on your way to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in the quaint village of Aguas Calientes, you will be greeted by staff from your luxurious eco-lodge. This afternoon choose from several activities at the lodge, including a nature walk in the orchid pavilion, natural sweat lodge-sauna, bird observation, or relax on your own. An additional visit to the Machu Picchu ruins can be scheduled for this afternoon if desired. This evening enjoy dinner at the lodge.

Day 6: Machu Picchu | Cusco

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

This morning take a short bus ride to the sacred ruins of Machu Picchu for a private tour. Explore the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, ceremonial fountains and baths, and the Sacred Plazas. Opt for an exhilarating one-hour hike up the steep trail to the summit of Huayna Picchu (Young Peak) for a breath-taking bird’s-eye view of Machu Picchu. (Tickets must be purchased in advance.) After your visit, transfer to Aguas Calientes for lunch and board the train for Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, you will be met by your driver and transferred the rest of the way to Cusco. This evening enjoy dinner on your own at one of Cusco’s many fine restaurants.

Day 7: Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

This morning continue your exploration of the illustrious history of the Inca civilization. Travel by foot and private vehicle during a city tour that takes you down Cusco’s cobbled streets and narrow passageways with brightly painted balconies overhead. Visit the historic Plaza de Armas, the Coricancha, the Inca’s Sun Temple, the Incan fortress of Sacsayhuaman, and the ceremonial pools of Tambo Machay. Enjoy lunch and dinner on your own. This evening stroll around the main plaza for views of the Cathedral lit up at night.

Day 8: Cusco | Lima

Meals: Breakfast

This morning is yours to explore Cusco on your own. This afternoon you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, our staff will help you check in for your international flight home. Lunch and dinner today are on your own.

Day 9: Arrive Home