Compare Lights of Peru, The Inca Empire by Say Hueque vs Andean Adventure by Sky Vacations

Day 1: Welcome to Your 8-Day Trip to Perú - Lima

Transfer from the airport to your hotel – Day at leisure

Upon your arrival in Lima, we’ll be waiting to drive you from the airport to your hotel. Enjoy your leisure time in Lima!

Lima is the capital of Peru; the jumping-off point for nearly all trips to the country. In the Colonial Era, it housed the viceroyalty, making it the most powerful city-hub of South America.

Today, its native and foreign heritage coexist; its well-preserved, amazing colonial churches and archeological sites (heading south to Caral Sacred City) exist in harmony with Peru’s beautiful beaches overlooking the Pacific Ocean and its delicious seafood.

Day 2: City Tour in Lima

Today we’ll pick you up at your hotel to explore Lima’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with fascinating historic buildings.

We’ll start with a scenic tour in the colonial downtown, which expands from the Main Square, where you can appreciate the grandiose architecture of the Spanish Empire, like that of the Cathedral, which was built up in the 16th century and finished after 80 years of hard work!

Our next stop will be to Casa Aliaga, a colonial mansion that was granted in 1535 by chief conquistador Francisco Pizarro to Jerónimo de Aliaga, one of his captains.

The last part of this historical day tour in Lima will be dedicated to the Larco Museum. Located in the traditional Pueblo Libre district, this meticulously maintained museum is housed in a beautifully restored viceroyal mansion. Its exhibits boast the most complete pre-Hispanic collection of gold and silver artifacts, as well as pieces of ancient erotic art.

Since we’re on the topic of love encounters, we’ll finish the day at the “Love Park” built in 1993 to celebrate love in all its forms. Nestled in the upscale coastal district of Miraflores, you can admire the cliffs from its colorful mosaic benches and take in the most beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean.

After enjoying this romantic place and meeting the famous sculpture which immortalized the tender kiss of two passionate lovers, we’ll drive you back to your hotel.

Day 3: Continue Your Perú Travel Itinerary - Cuzco

Transfer from your hotel to Lima airport
Today we’ll pick you up at your hotel and take you to Lima airport to continue your 8-day trip in Perú. Take an hour’s flight to Cuzco, maybe the most international destination of Peru, since (but not only because…) Machu Picchu, the world-renowned Inca fortress, is located only 4 hours away! 

Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cuzco

Upon your arrival in Cuzco, we’ll drive you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the evening exploring the city at your own pace.

Day 4: Pisac and Ollantaytambo Fortress - Cuzco

Full-day tour to Pisac and Ollantaytambo Fortress
Continue exploring the Sacred Valley, and visit Pisac, famous for its craft market where you’ll find the most exquisite pieces of jewelry, ceramic, and textile craftwork. We’ll continue our trip by visiting the archeological site of Pisac to admire the stone terraces built by the Incas, and last, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo to visit its stunning fortress. Admire the remaining towers and walls that used to keep the citadel safe and the royal guests it used to host. You will sleep in Cuzco tonight, at the end of the day, a transfer will drop you at your hotel.

Day 5: Travel to Machu Picchu - Return to Cuzco

Tour to Machu Picchu, discover the legendary city!
Your tour to Machu Picchu begins with a 4-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes (literally, hot water). This town is also known as “Machu Picchu Pueblo” and is the last stop before entering the remains of the most important archaeological site in Peru. Machu Picchu means “Old Mountain” and is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

You’ll finally reach Machu Picchu (the ancient sanctuary and retreat for the Inca Pachacutec) after a short transfer by bus through the mountains.

Here, when we arrive at the exact destination that is the highlight of your trip, we will have special moments which will most certainly be cherished forever. Enjoy your first impressions of this jaw-dropping place, and breathe the magic in the air.

At the end of the tour, you will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes and the train back to Cuzco where a transfer will drive you to your hotel.

Day 6: City Tour in Cuzco

City tour in Cuzco and archeological sites

Today we’ll pick you up at your hotel to start your Cuzco tour with a visit to the Coricancha, also known as the “Temple of the Sun” the construction of which was ordered by Inca Pachacútec (1438-1471).

This is where the Sun (Inti, in Quechua) was worshipped during the reign of the Inca Empire, and during that time its walls were fully covered with gold sheets and its courtyards were adorned with golden corn and life-sized sculptures of llamas.

We’ll continue on to visit the Cathedral, the most important building in the Main Square (whose construction lasted almost a century) and one of the most splendid Spanish colonial churches in America.

Our next stop will be the Sacsayhuamán fortress, an emblematic Incan piece of work, which protected the Holy City. The Sacsayhuamán complex was constructed with giant megalithic blocks, the transportation and construction of which continue to be a mystery.

This day will end with a visit to some archeological main attractions. You’ll visit Qenqo, located just over 2 miles away from Cuzco City, an archaeological complex mainly used for religious purposes, and where it is believed that agricultural rituals took place.

You will finally visit the vestiges of Puka Pukara, located 4.5 miles away from Cuzco. Puka Pukara, which means “red fortress”, was an architectural complex presumably used for military purposes.

At the end of this full historical and natural immersion in Cuzco’s heritage, we’ll drive you back to your hotel.

Day 7 Hike to Humantay Lagoon - Cuzco

Hike to Humantay Lagoon

You will leave Cuzco early in the morning heading to Soraypampa. On the way, pass by the city of Limatambo, an important entrance to Cuzco during the Inca Empire, and see the archaeological site of Tarawasi. Make a quick breakfast stop in a local restaurant before reaching Soraypampa and begin a mountain hike to Humantay Lagoon. Enjoy the stunning scenery of this wonderful place and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. Heading back to Cuzco, take lunch at a restaurant along the route.

Day 8 The End of Your 8-Day Travel Itinerary to Peru

This is the end of your 8-day travel itinerary to Peru…at least for now! At the appropriate time, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and head to the Cuzco airport to take your flight.

Keep on exploring other amazing destinations in Perú. Fire up your wanderlust with our featured trips to Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Peru.

Day 1: Welcome

Upon arriving to Lima, you will be welcomed by one of our Sky Vacations ambassadors who will give you a brief introduction to the city and to your program while en-route e to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Lima

This morning you’ll be met at your hotel to begin a tour of the city. You’ll see the main avenues, boulevards, and squares plus the Plaza de Armas (Main Square). You’ll have time to explore the square by and admire the exteriors of the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), the Cathedral of Lima, and the Municipalidad (City Hall), all examples of Lima’s colonial architecture. Next, you’ll will visit La Casa Aliaga, the oldest continuously inhabited private residence in the Southern Hemisphere. You’ll also see the Convento de Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo Convent).

Your tour continues with a journey through the streets of modern Lima as you head towards San Isidro and Miraflores. In San Isidro, see the heart of the city’s financial district and enjoy a panoramic view of the Huaca Hullamarca Pyramid. Next it’s Miraflores, a perfect spot to enjoy wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean. Complete your tour of Lima with a visit to the Bohemian neighborhood of Barranco, an area called home by countless artists, photographers, and authors. Walk along the charming streets lined with boutiques and galleries and stop at Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), witness to untold numbers of past and present romances, and source of inspiration for one of Peru’s great composers, Chabuca Granda. The rest of today is yours to enjoy Lima.

Day 3: Lima To Cusco

Today you’ll be met your the hotel and escorted to the airport for your flight to Cusco.  You will be free for the rest of the morning so that you can adjust to the altitude.

This afternoon, you will begin your tour with the best view of the city atop Cerro Pukamoqo (Red Peak). Then visit nearby Fortaleza de Sacsayhuamán (Fortress of Sacsayhuamán). As you return to the lower part of the city stop off at the Mercado de San Pedro (Market of St. Peter) that will give you an opportunity to get to know the products of Cusco. You’ll discover one of the most impressive buildings of Incan Cusco: the Korikancha (the Golden Temple) ending your tour with time to stroll through the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) and a visit to the Cathedral t0 admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Day 4: Sacred Valley

This morning, you’ll be heading to the Valle Sagrado (Sacred Valley) and  the must-see stop of Awanakancha. Here learn about the Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas, and Guanacos that live in the Andes Meet with local villagers will teach you about the ancestral methods and techniques used to produce their textile art. Continue to Pisac, a beautiful place where Incan and Colonial influences have reached a perfect balance and created the unique way of life of the local inhabitants. You’ll have free time to explore this quaint town, famous for its artisan markets. We’ve arranged lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your tour.

After lunch, visit one of the last remaining Incan towns, Ollantaytambo, which was once fiercely guarded by a massive fortress. Discover the large archeological  and surviving structures that  include multiple walls and towers that were used to protect the citadel from possible invasions. You’ll also have a chance to mingle with the locals  either at a “chichería” (establishment for the brewing and sale of chicha, the famous traditional Andean drink made of germinated corn) or a bakery with still-functioning traditional ovens. After your tour, return to your hotel in Cusco.

Day 5: Machu Picchu

Today you visit the Santuario Histórico de Machu Picchu (Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu). Board your train departing for Aguas Calientes enjoying a spectacular views along the way. Upon arrival, your bus will be waiting to take you to the entrance gate of the citadel.

Discovered by Hiram Bingham more than 100 years ago, Machu Picchu is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Its beauty, spectacular natural landscapes and the energy held in its enigmatic structures will take your breath away as you explore the citadel with your guide. After the tour, stop at a local restaurant for lunch. After your time at the citadel,  return to Cusco.

Day 6: Road Trip To Puno

Early this morning depart from Cusco to Puno enjoying some of  the most beautiful views of the Andes. During your trip, we make a stop at Andahuaylillas, home to one of the most unique churches in the Andes, known as Peru’s Sistine Chapel.  The next stop is Racchi, one of the most important locations of the Inca Empire, known for its architecture. Cross the La Raya Pass, which lies at 14,222 feet (4,335 meters) above sea level. See herds of vicuñas and llamas before visiting the town of Pucará. A special buffet lunch at a country-style restaurant will be served before heading to your hotel in Puno.

Day 7: Uros And Taquile Island

Today you’re offf to enjoy an extraordinary journey across the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca. Travel to places where time seems to stand still. Your first stop are the Uros floating islands, a group of around 40 small islands made totally of totora, a natural reed that grows around the lake. The inhabitants will invite you to get to know their traditional lifestyle and customs. Continue your voyage across the placid waters of the lake until you come to the picturesque island of Taquile, where old Quechua traditions live in perfect balance with modernity. Discover a landscape distinct from the other islands thanks to the Incan terraces filled with local flowers and crops. Most importantly, enjoy the unbelievable hospitality of the islanders, known as Taquileños, who will make your visit to the island a memorable one including lunch at the home of a local.

Day 8: Catamaran Cruise To La Paz

This morning, your drive will meet you and take you to the Sanctuary of Copacabana.  Upon arrival, visit the main square and the Cathedral (sanctuary of the Black Virgin of Copacabana), before boarding the catamaran that will take you on a cruise through Lake Titicaca to the Island of the Sun, the cradle of the Inca Empire.

On this legendary island visit the Garden, the Steps, and the Inca Fountain. Also visit he Inti Wata Cultural Complex, Bolivia’s main private tourist attraction. At this complex seta sail on a huge traditional totora reed vessel and enjoy the panoramic view of the Incan Pilkokaina Palace. You’ll also have an opportunity to participate in the ancient Kallawaya ceremony as well as the water ceremony.

At the end of this visit board the catamaran again, which will take you to the Port of Chua as we enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. Upon arrival, your bus will be waiting to take you to La Paz for an overnight.

Day 9: La Paz, Tiawanaku & Valley Of The Moon

Today you’ll visit the archaeological complex of Tiahuanaco, one of the most ancient civilizations of the Americas (approx. 1589 B.C.). During its golden age it served as the main ceremonial center and was also the cradle of Andean culture. Visit the Temple of Kalasasaya (Sun), the Gate of the Sun, the Semi-Subterranean Temple (Earth), the Akapana Pyramid and its museum, where you can see an impressive collection of objects and instruments from ancient civilizations. After this visit, we will return to the hotel for a break before your afternoon tour.

This afternoon,  visit the famous Witches’ Market, the colonial Church of San Francisco, and the artisan shops of Calle Sagarnaga. Continue your tour through the city of La Paz with Plaza Murillo, the Government Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Parliament are located.  Then  onto the Jaen street, where the city’s most important museums are located. From here move on to the replica of the Tiahuanaco culture’s semi-underground temple. At the end of this visit will shift gears and go to the residential areas of Obrajes, Calacoto and La Florida. The tours ends  with a visit to the spectacular Valley of the Moon, where you will visit a traditional pottery workshop and have a demonstration of this incredible craft.

Day 10: Departure

It’s time to say goodbye as you transfer to the airport for your onward journey.