Discover Peru in 8 Days Exclusive Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca Tour
Unveil Peru’s Best in 8 Days: Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca Expedition
Embark on an 8-day exclusive journey through Peru, combining the mysterious allure of Machu Picchu with the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca. Begin your adventure with a culinary and historical exploration in Lima, before diving into the heart of Incan heritage at the Sacred Valley. Here, you’ll experience awe-inspiring Andean landscapes and charming green villages. The highlight of your tour is a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, where ancient secrets and architectural marvels await. Marvel at this iconic Incan citadel, rich in history and mystery. The adventure continues as you ascend to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca. Discover the unique Uros reed islands and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. This private tour promises a blend of historical discovery, cultural immersion, and natural wonders, tailored for those seeking a safe, sustainable, and purposeful travel experience in Peru.
Highlights
- Lima’s Culinary & Historical Tapestry: Begin in Lima with a colonial walking tour and a gastronomic adventure, exploring rich Peruvian flavors and historic architecture.
- Machu Picchu’s Ancient Wonders: Discover the enigmatic allure of Machu Picchu through expert-guided tours, unveiling its majestic architecture and storied past.
- Lake Titicaca’s Serene Beauty: Journey to the tranquil Lake Titicaca, experiencing Puno’s vibrant culture and the unique floating Uros reed islands.
- Sacred Valley’s Incan Legacy: Explore the Sacred Valley, a haven of Incan history, with its stunning Andean vistas and traditional green villages.
- Peru’s Comprehensive 8-Day Journey: Experience an all-encompassing 8-day adventure through Peru, blending historical exploration, cultural immersion, and natural wonder.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1 – Lima Arrival Excellence
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Lima, the vibrant heart of Peru. Spend the day acclimating and soaking in the city’s unique blend of modernity and historical grandeur.
Day 2 – Lima: Culinary and Historic Discovery
Dive into Lima’s rich history and renowned culinary scene. Explore its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and indulge in Peruvian gastronomic delights.
Day 3 – Memorable Cusco Journey
Embark on a journey to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital. Roam its cobbled streets, visit historic sites, and experience the city’s unique blend of cultures.
Day 4 – Sacred Valley Wonders
Discover the Sacred Valley, a landscape filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and scenic beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this region.
Day 5 – Machu Picchu Magic
Experience the iconic Machu Picchu, an ancient wonder of the world. Explore this majestic Inca citadel and its captivating history.
Day 6 – Titicaca Beyond The Andes
Embark on an elegant rail journey to Lake Titicaca, traversing the breathtaking Andean landscapes and experiencing the luxury of rail travel in Peru.
Day 7 – Lake Titicaca Exploration
Explore Lake Titicaca, visiting the unique Uros Floating Islands and the culturally rich Taquile Island. Engage with local communities and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.
Day 8 – Departure from Puno
Conclude your Peruvian odyssey with a visit to the ancient Sillustani burial grounds before departing from Puno for your international journey home.
Prices for this trip
Hotel Category | Double or Triple room | Single room Additional cost |
---|---|---|
Superior Tourist | US$ 2383 | US$ 357 |
First Class | US$ 2625 | US$ 666 |
* Minimum 2 passengers to confirm the booking; solo traveler is subject to an additional fee.
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
Includes and excludes
Included
- Comfortable Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable stay for 7 nights in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes, and Puno hotels, with breakfast included.
- No Hidden Costs: Your journey comes without surprise expenses—every admission fee for Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Puno, and the iconic Machu Picchu is included.
- Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking local guides will lead your tours.
- Hassle-Free Transfers: We provide all necessary transfers, including airport, train station, bus station transfers, and hotel pickups and drop-offs.
- Efficient Train Travel: Journey smoothly with a train ticket for the Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Cusco route (Vistadome train).
- Culinary Delights: Savor mouthwatering meals as per your itinerary, with unique dietary options available upon request.
- Convenient Ground Transportation: Enjoy reliable ground transportation services for your Adventure.
- Round-the-Clock Support: Our local staff is available 24/7 to provide you with any necessary assistance.
Not included
- Flights: Both domestic and international flights are not covered. For flight arrangements, please consult a travel agency if needed.
- Visa and Insurance: Procedures related to visas, travel insurance, and any pre- or post-tour accommodation are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Any additional personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages and laundry are not covered.
- Gratuities: Gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff are not included in the price.
- Language Guidance: If you require guidance in a language other than English (e.g., German, French), please inquire with your travel agent.
- Additional Items: Costs related to items that are not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary description are not included.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are also not covered.
Trip code: PMPLA10D01-PVT
Day 1 – Lima Arrival Excellence: Journey Begins Here
- Welcome to Lima: Upon arrival in Lima, travelers are greeted with warm hospitality by the dedicated team at Sun Gate Tours. From the moment the plane lands, their enchanting journey unfolds seamlessly. Navigating a foreign airport becomes effortless, as the team takes care of every detail.
- Private Transportation: Step into the comfort of our private transport, meticulously designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible.
- With no fixed agenda upon arrival, guests can quickly check into their accommodations, taking this time to rejuvenate for the remarkable adventures.
- Stay the Night at the Lima Hotel
- Meals: None
Day 2 – Lima: Culinary and Historic Discovery
- Morning Culinary Start: After breakfast, join us at 09:30 for a sensory journey at a local market. Dive into a world of vibrant textures, colors, and aromas, setting the stage for your Peruvian culinary exploration.
- Cooking Classes: Next, we’ll take you to our cooking studio for a hands-on experience. Learn about and prepare authentic Peruvian dishes, creating a personal culinary masterpiece. Dive into a unique cooking class that combines hands-on learning with a relaxed atmosphere. Our experienced chefs make it both educational and enjoyable, ensuring you learn while having fun.
- Culinary Journey: Master the art of Peruvian classics. Gain insights into the history behind each dish and pick up expert tips for crafting the perfect meal. Indulge in over 10 distinct flavors, including causa acevichada, lomo saltado, pisco sour, and a traditional dessert.
- Self-Made Lunch: Savor a self-prepared lunch, enjoying the fruits of your labor.
- Afternoon Historical Exploration: At 14:00, embark on a walking tour of Lima’s historical center. Discover palaces, the Saint Francisco Monastery, and Catacombs, revealing the city’s rich history. Architectural Wonders: Visit the main square, Archbishop’s Palace, Municipal Palace, and more. Experience the old-world charm of the “Cordano Bar,” historical mansions, and the iconic Rimac Bridge, framed by traditional wooden balconies.
- UNESCO Heritage Site: Explore the history and culture of this UNESCO-protected area, a testament to Lima’s historical significance. Tour Conclusion: The tour wraps up around 18:00.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Lima.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 3 – Embark on a Memorable Cusco Journey: Explore the Ancient Inca Capital
- Enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast. At 06:30, we’ll whisk you away from your Hotel and smoothly transfer you to Lima airport. Get ready to take a flight to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital.
- Arrival in Cusco: Touch down in Cusco, where our team will eagerly wait at the airport to assist you and ensure a seamless transfer to your lodging.
- Free Time to Explore: The day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take it easy to acclimate to the altitude and discover the wonders of this captivating city.
- Vibrant Market Discovery: At 14:30, we’ll pick you up for an exciting walking tour starting at the lively San Pedro market. Immerse yourself in the daily life of Cusqueños beyond the picture-perfect main square. Your expert guide will narrate the market’s history as you wander through narrow aisles brimming with colorful fabrics, delectable meals, fresh fruit juices, aromatic bread, and intriguing shaman stalls.
- Golden Legacy: The Adventure continues as we visit Qorikancha, where Santo Domingo’s convent sits atop an ancient, once fully gold-plated temple. Discover the mysteries that left early invaders in awe of its grandeur.
- Unearth Inca Majesty: Prepare for a voyage to Sacsayhuaman. This awe-inspiring Inca architectural masterpiece boasts breathtaking megalithic ruins perched majestically atop a hill overlooking Cusco.
- Cusco Unveiled: As you reach the hill’s summit, be prepared for awe-inspiring panoramic views of Cusco. This city harmoniously bridges the ancient and the contemporary.
- The tour will end around 17:30.
- Stay the Night at the Cusco Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 – Experience the Wonders of the Sacred Valley: A Day of Discovery Awaits
- Your journey begins with a 09:00 hotel pickup as we set off for the enchanting Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop? The picturesque town of Chinchero is a historic Incan outpost adorned with a traditional church dating back to the late 1400s.
- Andean Hospitality: The day’s highlight is a visit to an authentic Andean Quechua village, just 15 minutes from Chinchero. You’ll be warmly welcomed, serenaded by traditional Andean music, and offered a sip of soothing muña tea. Immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals, partake in their activities, and relish a delectable meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Discover the region’s agricultural treasures and the enduring use of ancient tools.
- Weaving Wonders: Marvel at the artistry of skilled weavers who employ age-old techniques. A weaving demonstration will reveal the intricate process of transforming alpaca and sheep wool into stunning fabrics. Explore the vibrant world of natural dyes and appreciate the dedication invested in each tapestry, from spinning to weaving.
- Scenic Picnic: After your cultural immersion, indulge in a community-prepared lunch amidst breathtaking surroundings. You’ll dine beside the tranquil Piuray Lake, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Sacred Valley. Savor the flavors of a picnic crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
- Moray’s Agricultural Marvel: Our Adventure continues with a visit to the awe-inspiring Moray archaeological site, where you’ll encounter vast circular and semicircular agricultural terraces that will leave you wondering. These natural limestone formations served as experimental fields for the Incas to nurture over 3,000 plant varieties, including potatoes and corn.
- To conclude our tour, we head to the Ollantaytambo railway station to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a warm welcome, followed by a seamless transfer to your Hotel.
- Stay the Night at the Aguas Calientes Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 – Experience the Magic of Machu Picchu in One Unforgettable Day
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your Hotel, preparing you for the incredible journey ahead.
- Machu Picchu Bound: At 08:00, hop on a bus to the legendary Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,430m/7,972ft). This UNESCO World Heritage Site and wonder of the modern world is a mountaintop fortress that lives up to its notoriety.
- Guided Exploration: Around 09:30, your expert guide will lead you through the astounding ruins and ancient streets. Wander around the town squares and climb intricately carved stone stairways. Machu Picchu holds a special place in esoteric wisdom as the world’s spiritual center.
- The guided tour takes approximately two hours, ensuring you don’t miss any of the site’s wonders.
- Return to Aguas Calientes: From 12:30 to 13:30, take a bus back to Aguas Calientes, where a delicious local restaurant lunch awaits you.
- Later in the day, board the train for your return to Cusco. Arrive at Poroy station and be picked up for a comfortable transfer to your Cusco hotel.
- Stay the Night at the Cusco Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 – Titicaca Beyond The Andes: An Elegant Rail Journey
- Start your day with a luxurious hotel breakfast, followed by a convenient hotel pickup at 06:30 for a seamless transfer to the train station. Prepare yourself for an extraordinary journey aboard the exclusive PeruRail Titicaca train, a pinnacle of luxury travel.
- Experience a mesmerizing 10.5-hour train ride that weaves through the stunning landscapes of Peru’s altiplano region. Revel in the serenity as you travel alongside the calm waters and majestic peaks that characterize this breathtaking area.
- The PeruRail Titicaca train is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an unforgettable voyage connecting the enchanting cities of Puno and Cusco. This full-day journey takes you across the Peruvian Andes, from the Imperial City of the Incas to the mystical shores of Lake Titicaca, offering an unparalleled experience replete with top-notch service.
- Indulge in a sumptuous three-course gourmet lunch, meticulously crafted with traditional regional ingredients. This culinary delight showcases the rich and exquisite flavors of Peruvian cuisine, making your journey not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the palate. This train journey promises an unforgettable blend of scenic beauty, luxury, and culinary excellence, making it a must-experience for any luxury travel enthusiast.
- Train Schedule: Cusco (07:30) – Puno (17:50)
- Stay the Night at the Puno Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 7 – Lake Titicaca (Uros Floating Islands & Taquile)
- Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 07:00 and transfer to Puno’s port. Our journey will begin with the Uros Floating Islands. The Uros are the native people who live on these artificial islands made with cattail grown on Lake Titicaca. The houses are built atop, while outside cooking to avoid fires.
- After an hour on the Island of Uros, we will proceed to the Island of Taquile. Here become aware that these locals speak Quechua instead of the predominant Aymara. The Island of Taquile was once a part of the Inca Empire, which still influences the style of the buildings today.
- Upon arrival on the island, we will receive some brief information and a tour until lunchtime. In the afternoon, the boat will take back Puno.
- The clients will be transferred back to the hotel from Puno’s port.
- Stay the Night at the Puno Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 8 – Departure from Puno, Visit Sillustani, and International Departure
- Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 07:00 and transfer to Juliaca airport.
- On the way to the airport, stop at the Chullpas at Sillustani to see one of the world’s most significant cemeteries, home to almost 100 Chullpas (old funeral towers).
- According to the specifications, each tower is about 12 meters tall, with the breadth rising from the bottom. According to traditional traditions, objects like gold, food, and ceramics were deposited in the graves.
- After the visit, we will continue to the Juliaca airport.
- Take the flight to Lima, then connect at home at the same airport.
- Lima International departure.
- Meals: Breakfast.