Peru The Hidden Andes 8 days
Peru The Hidden Andes 8 days
Itinerario Peru The Hidden Andes 8 days
Day 1 – Welcome to Lima
Arrive in Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital. Our staff will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. If you arrive early, take time to relax or stroll along the Pacific coast. In the evening, enjoy a fresh ceviche or dine at one of Lima’s world-renowned restaurants.
Included:
- Airport assistance
- Transport
- Hotel
Day 2 – Lima City Tour & Flight to Cusco
Start your day with a cultural city tour. Visit Love Park in Miraflores with sweeping ocean views, then enjoy panoramic views of Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca, two ancient pre-Inca sites. Explore Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral, and the Convent of Santo Domingo, which houses the relics of Saint Martin de Porres and Saint Rose of Lima.
Later, fly to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, where you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel.
Included:
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Transport
- Domestic flight
- Breakfast
- Hotel.
Day 3 – Chinchero, Moray & Maras Salt Mines + Train to Aguas Calientes
Begin the day in Chinchero, also known as the «Rainbow City,» where you’ll visit colonial churches, Inca ruins, and watch local women demonstrate traditional Andean weaving techniques. Continue to Moray, an ancient Incan agricultural laboratory with dramatic circular terraces.
Next, marvel at the stunning Maras salt ponds, still harvested by local families. In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu.
Included:
- Professional guide
- Transport
- Entrance fees
- Breakfast & lunch.
- Train
- Hotel.
Day 4 – Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco
Take an early shuttle up to Machu Picchu, Peru’s most iconic Inca citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your expert guide will explain the fascinating history, architecture, and sacred meaning of this awe-inspiring place.
Return via Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo by train, then travel back to Cusco for the night.
Optional hike: Add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required, limited availability).
Included:
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Bus
- Train
- Breakfast & lunch
- Hotel.
Day 5 – Rainbow Mountain Trek (Vinicunca)
Today is an early adventure to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), located at over 16,000 ft (5,000 m) elevation. After breakfast, drive through Andean villages like Cusipata to Fulawasipata, the trek starting point. Hike through vivid landscapes beneath the sacred Apu Ausangate, one of the highest peaks in Peru and a revered mountain in Andean cosmology. Return to Cusco by evening.
Included:
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Transport
- Hotel
- Breakfast & lunch.
Day 6 – The Route of the Sun: Cusco to Lake Titicaca
Travel by tourist bus to Puno along the scenic Route of the Sun, stopping at historical and cultural landmarks along the way. Visit the ornate Andahuaylillas Church («Sistine Chapel of the Andes»), the monumental Temple of Wiracocha in Raqchi, and the Pukara Museum, dedicated to pre-Inca culture.
Included:
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Tourist-class bus
- Hotel
- Breakfast & lunch.
Day 7 – Full-Day Lake Titicaca Tour: Uros & Taquile Islands
Explore Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Start with a visit to the floating Uros Islands, constructed from totora reeds, where local families preserve a centuries-old lifestyle. Continue to Taquile Island, known for its traditional textiles and community-based tourism. Enjoy a locally prepared lunch and breathtaking lake views before heading back to Puno.
Included:
- Professional guide
- Entrance fees
- Boat Ride
- Hotel
- Breakfast & lunch
Day 8 – Flight Puno → Lima → International Departure
Enjoy free time in Puno depending on your flight schedule. Transfer to Juliaca Airport for your flight back to Lima and onward international connection.
Included:
- Domestic flight
- Airport assistance
- Private transfer
- Breakfast.
What to Pack:
Health & Altitude Tips:
- Take time to acclimatize in Cusco before physical activities
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol during your first days
- Consult your doctor about altitude medication if necessary
Cultural Awareness & Etiquette:
- Be respectful when photographing local people
- Support artisans by purchasing handmade crafts in Chinchero and Taquile
- Learn basic Spanish greetings—locals truly appreciate it!
Safety & Practical Advice:
- Keep your belongings secure, especially in busy areas
- Use provided transport and accommodation for optimal comfort and security
- Carry some cash in Peruvian soles for souvenirs, meals, and tips.
Final Thoughts
» Peru The Hidden Andes « is more than a vacation—it’s a journey into the heart of Inca heritage, Andean landscapes, and timeless traditions. Ideal for travelers seeking a diverse Peru experience, this package delivers a harmonious mix of cultural discovery, adventure trekking, and spiritual connection.
Let the magic of Peru unfold before you—from ancient terraces to sacred peaks, vibrant villages, and mirror-like lakes.
Reserve your spot today and experience Peru beyond the surface.
Include
Transportation:
- Airport transfers in Lima, Cusco, and Puno
- Flights: Lima–Cusco and Juliaca–Lima
- Train tickets: Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes
- Tourist-class bus: Cusco → Puno
- Private/shared vehicles as outlined in itinerary
- Boat tour on Lake Titicaca
Accommodation:
- Quality hotels in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes & Puno
Meals:
- Daily breakfast
- Select lunches and dinners as listed
Guided Tours & Cultural Activities:
- Lima city tour: Plaza Mayor, Cathedral, Santo Domingo, Huacas, Love Park
- Sacred Valley exploration: Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines
- Full-day Machu Picchu experience
- Rainbow Mountain trek (Vinicunca)
- Full-day Lake Titicaca excursion
- Route of the Sun scenic journey with cultural stops
Additional Services:
- Bilingual professional guides
- All entry tickets to scheduled sites
- Airport assistance
- Local demonstrations & cultural immersion activities
Not included
- International flights.
- Gratuities.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities not specified in the tour.
Preguntas Frecuentes sobre el Peru The Hidden Andes 8 days
To better acclimatize, it is advisable to rest on the first day in Cusco. Drink plenty of water and avoid intense physical exertion. Consuming coca leaves or coca tea is also very helpful for adaptation. Consider a light tour of the city at the beginning to facilitate the process.
The tourist bus journey from Cusco to Puno takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trip includes strategic stops at points of interest and viewpoints. You will enjoy impressive landscapes during the journey.
Most of the hikes on the itinerary are moderate, generally between 5 and 10 kilometers daily. However, the Rainbow Mountain day can be more demanding due to the altitude. It is important to be physically prepared to fully enjoy it.
Yes, it is highly recommended to carry cash in Peruvian soles. This will be useful for small purchases, souvenirs, tips, or personal expenses. Not all places accept credit cards.
We advise wearing layered clothing due to climate changes. Include warm clothes for cold mornings and nights, and light clothing for the day. A raincoat and comfortable walking shoes are essential. For more adventures, the Beach, mountains and desert 10 days offers a varied experience.
Included meals are specified in the daily itinerary. Breakfasts are usually covered. Additional lunches and dinners not mentioned have an estimated cost of 5 to 10 USD per meal.
This tour is designed to offer a complete experience. However, if you wish to customize it or combine it with other adventures, such as Imperial Peru 8 days, we can help you create your ideal trip.
The hike to Rainbow Mountain is considered of moderate to high difficulty. It requires good physical condition due to the altitude. However, the spectacular views make the effort worthwhile. For a different experience, consider the Palcoyo Mountain – 1 Day.
Yes, domestic flights between major cities, such as Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, are included in this package. We take care of coordinating the details for your convenience during the tour.
Although not included in the package, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance. This will provide coverage for any unforeseen health events or mishaps that may arise during your vacation.
We use comfortable and well-located hotels in each city, selected to ensure your rest and enjoyment. Specific details are confirmed at the time of booking. For a longer experience in Cusco, Cusco of the Incas is an excellent option.
Given that the tour includes visits to popular sites like Machu Picchu and takes place during important dates, such as Inti Raymi 2025 – The Great Festival of the Sun, it is advisable to book as far in advance as possible. This ensures availability and better prices.
Yes, it is possible. However, the ascent to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is not included in the package and must be booked well in advance. Tickets are limited and sell out quickly. For another Machu Picchu alternative, you can explore Machu Picchu 3 Days.
Yes, throughout the tour you will have professional Spanish-speaking guides. They will provide you with detailed and enriching information about each site visited, as well as the Inca culture. If you are looking for a longer adventure, The Condor Pasa in Perú – 17 Days also offers expert guides.
The Uros Floating Islands are a safe and fascinating destination. The local inhabitants are friendly and accustomed to receiving visitors. You will get to know their ancestral culture in an authentic way. To explore more of the altiplano, the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain – 16 Days is an option.
You can complement this tour with the Short Inca Trail 2 days for a trekking experience. If you are looking for more adventure, the Rainbow Mountain ATV – Adventure in 2 Days is an excellent option.
Yes, if you have any dietary restrictions or special diet, please inform us in advance. We will do our best to coordinate with hotels and restaurants to ensure suitable options for you.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. Days are usually sunny and rainfall is minimal, which facilitates excursions and offers better views.
Hotels in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) are conveniently located near the train station and bus stops. This facilitates early access to the Machu Picchu citadel. For a more adventurous experience to Machu Picchu, consider Biking to Machu Picchu 4 days.
Absolutely. This tour includes visits to numerous highly relevant sites. You will explore the 4 ruins of Cusco, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Also the impressive Choquequirao “The Last Inca City” if you desire a deeper archaeological extension. For a more extensive tour, the Inca Routes 10 days is a great alternative.