The Most Famous Hike in Peru & South America
18 Days & 17 Nights
Meta Peru Travel will put together your 18‑day Peru adventure with care and real local know‑how. This trip will connect the coast, desert, rainforest and Andes in a single ride. Each of the places reveals a new face of Peru and at the end, you will feel that you have seen everything in equilibrium.
We will vacation first on the Pacific coast, and explore the livelier quarters. Then to the south to Paracas where there is the expansive desert feel. Then we are going to get onto a plane and look at the Nazca Lines and be stunned with those gigantic figures. Little by little we will contaminate ocean appearances with historic tales.
Then the next thing we will do is to go into the Amazon, where the speed should be reduced. We will right away sail along jungle rivers, hike on thorny paths, and wildlife will be spotted at dawn and dusk. Little by little we will have a better tie-in with nature.
We will all go on up into the Andes later and wind up in Cusco. We will walk through rock-laid streets, excavate the history of the Inca and colonial periods and plunge into the Sacred Valley and its living culture. Then in a short time we will reach Machu Picchu, which is the jewel of the 18-day tour.
Included in the roadmap will be the inclusion of ATV rides on mountainous terrain over 5,000 meters. We shall also have dinner hands on, trying out of the local flavours. Early-Morning starts and evenings with relaxed feels we will have days well planned though comfortable. All just transit as one area segues into the other.
We will finish it off by visiting Lake Titicaca, host island communities, exchange stories, textiles and panoramic Altiplano views. By the time the journey is over we will be able to reflect on diverse sights and special experiences. This 18-day long trip may be referred to as a big discovery of Peru..
Upon landing on Lima, the Meta Peru crew will pick you up and drop you at Miraflores. The initial atmosphere is cool, hip-hop, sea views and large parks greet you after landing in the airport.
During the afternoon we will visit the coastal district very leisurely. You will stroll in Malecon, savor the Pacific, and observe the way in which Lima is able to blend nature with the city. The scene is calm yet lively.
We will later jump to Barranco which is the artistic barrio of Lima. The streets, murals, and colonial houses are colored, prompting an entirely different atmosphere that can be found in the corporate areas. The mixture of tradition and imagination begins placing the stratified identity of Peru into perspective.
We will end the trip by visiting a nice restaurant where we will sample some of the world-renowned food in Peru. The first night will be memorable with fresh seafood, herbs of the area and smooth presentation. Spend the night at one of the extravagant hotels in Lima.
Overnight in Lima.
We will spend the day exploring ancient Lima after breakfast. The transformation of the contemporary Miraflores to the colonial center is like entering a different time. The morning paints grand baroque churches and wooden balconies.
We will visit Plaza Mayor, and walk the streets of hundreds of years of politics and religion. The history of the buildings is what makes you understand how the Spanish influence transformed an already ancient land. The colonialism and pre-Inca conflict are intriguing.
On the tour we can explore into an old convent with its silent cloisters and artistic internal spaces creating an atmosphere of tranquility. The interior is not at all similar to the plazas which are buzzing. And that combining activity and tranquility is what makes Lima different.
We will have a civilized tasting event later with classic tastes and a Peruvian pisco in it. The afternoon is an innovative easy going back to your hotel, where you can relish the sea breeze once more.
We will drive down the Pacific early in the morning. The setting changes to city streets to extensive desert plains. The motivation is picturesque and relaxed, and expansive zones of sand touch the ocean.
At Paracas we shall take a boat ride to Ballestas Islands. The puzzling Candelabra geoglyph appears on a hilly sandy side and as we approach the Islands sea lions and seabirds encircle the boat providing a lively effect.
We will then continue to Huacachina oasis. It becomes surreal when a green lagoon suddenly bursts up between dunes of immense size. The palm trees in the desert make the scenery in Peru unique.
To close off the day we will ride through royal golden sand hills on dune buggies. It is an exciting, non-dangerous activity and you might go sand boarding in case you are willing. The desert sunset brings the day to an end. Stay overnight in Paracas.
Overnight in Paracas.
We are going to continue on the Panamericana to the south towards Nazca after breakfast. The drier and drier the desert becomes, the more dramatic it becomes. The narrow strips of sand and rocky mountains provide a strong impression of loneliness.
Upon arrival we will change the Domestic Airport whereby we will have a canopy flight over the Nazca Lines. A briefing on safety and the history of these giant geoglyphs is done before we board. In the air the drawing scale of the pictures comes out. Overhead the Monkey, Hummingbird, and Spider are transparent.
It is so surreal, as these characters have been sitting in the desert for centuries. Historians and travelers are still puzzled by the mystery of how and why they were made. The view of their size and accuracy is properly realized with the aerial perspective.
Once the flight has been made we will head north. The afternoon is relaxed and it will give you time to rest and think about one of the largest mysteries of Peru. Stay overnight in Lima.
Overnight in Lima.
It is to Puerto Maldonado the port of entry to the Amazon that we are flying this day, Lima to Puerto Maldonado. The transition between the desert along the coast to the thick jungle comes in hard and swift. Hot winds and exotic flowers make you realize that you are in a new entire world.
Then, we will visit Capitania Port where we will board a motorboat and go down the Lower Madre de Dios River. You will see plenty of wild stuff about you as we cruise through the forest. Capybaras, turtles, herons and cormorants as well as caiman can be seen relaxing along the banks.
On arriving at the lodge we will receive you with a cold tropical fruit juice and proceed to give you your own bungalow. We shall walk a forest path in the afternoon after lunch to Cocha Caiman, a small lagoon, inhabited by black caiman and spectacled caiman, in complete freedom.
Towards the end of the afternoon, we will be going back to the river to witness a colorful Amazon sunset. We shall later on languish in dinner at the lodge and you shall have opportunity to relax or enjoy the cool jungles. Lodge in Puerto Maldonado.
We will walk on forest paths after breakfast which cross small streams and dense brush. The stroll allows us to immerse ourselves in the rainforest reality and get to know about the plants and animals which can be found here.
Further into the jungle is Lake Apu Victor that is surrounded by the large trees and wetlands. In a higher position, it is possible to see all kinds of colorful parrots, Macaws, toucans and other birds flying around the canopy. We may even be able to see a giant otter swimming in the water just in case we are lucky.
We will then go to a local island of monkeys after lunch and a short rest in the lodge. The various species of capuchins, squirrel monkeys and others can be seen at liberty in their natural position where we get an excellent opportunity to observe them and take some photos.
In the later part of the afternoon we shall rest upon another beautiful Amazon sunset, and proceed to dinner. The remaining evening is yours to enjoy and absorb the rainforest sound. Puerto Maldonado Overnight.
Overnight in Puerto Maldonado.
Cocha Perdida, or Lost Lake, provides solace to myriads of life: otters, turtles, caiman and bird rainbow. The cool atmosphere makes the process of wildlife discovery all the more rewarding. And the fact that it is well-defended means that the place remains virtually clean.
We are also going up a viewing platform where the view is an endless green canopy in all directions. We shall then have a quick relaxing canoe ride across the lake then back to the lodge to lunch.
During the afternoon, you may visit a small botanical garden where you can read about medicinal plants or you can simply relax by the pool. In the evening dinner is served then you are free to spend your last night in the Amazon.
We will take you to the airport on a flight to Cusco after breakfast. After arrival in the Andes, our team will meet you there and take you to the hotel in the historic center. Since the altitude is much higher, we will recommend one to take it easy and remain hydrated.
Overnight in Puerto Maldonado.
In the afternoon, we will later start a leisurely walking tour of the old streets of Cusco. We will walk around the central square and observe the colonial architecture and go through one of the most artistic streets of the city.
On the road you can see gorgeous Inca stonework integrated with colonial architecture - there is even one of the most well-known carved stones of Cusco. We will also be going by the ruins of a large Inca temple, which demonstrates a warm blend of cultures that compose Cusco.
Included in the end of the tour is the free time spent having dinner or continuing the exploration on your own. Overnight in Cusco.
You will also be having a chilly morning after breakfast to continue acquiring yourself with the altitude. In the afternoon, we will also explore a historical guided tour of the best historic sites in Cusco, a combination of Inca culture and colonial atmosphere.
Overnight in Cusco.
We will begin with one of the most sacred temples of the Inca civilization: original stone foundations were used to support colonial buildings. There, we will get to the Cathedral of the main square that contains great artworks of the Cusco School.
Beyond the city center we are going to see megalithic archaeological complexes that used to be erected with enormous stone blocks that slide and fit together with unbelievable accuracy. These defense-focused and religious locations include the high-quality engineering of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the tour, we will be dropping you at your hotel. The remainder of the evening to yourself or take dinner in one of the great restaurants in Cusco. Overnight in Cusco.
We will start the day after breakfast by going to the Sacred Valley; this is an area surrounded by unbelievable mountains and agricultural land. First sight: panorama point where one can enjoy the vast valley and its astonishing terraces.
Then we are going to a classic Andean town that has both an archaeological site and a vibrant market. You will have a view of terraced farms sited on the side of the mountain as well as have an opportunity to examine local crafts.
At noon we will take lunch in the valley and continue to a great Inca stronghold in terms of massive carved rocks and watch towers on the river.
Later in the afternoon we will go to our hotel in the Sacred Valley to relax and prepare for our adventure tomorrow.
Overnight stay in Cusco.
In the morning we will drop you off at the rail station where you would begin your ride towards Machu Picchu. The scenic train is on a downward flow through the valleys and rivers; shifting the highlands to the rich cloud forest.
Once we arrive there we will take the bus to the gate of the archaeological sanctuary. The guide will also lead you through the history and symbolism of the temples, terraces and ceremony areas that have made this place so recognizable.
On your stroll by the citadel, one will be amazed by mountain scenery surrounding the old stone constructions. This vacation is completely memorable because of its tranquility and scenic allure.
Another tour we are going to do after the guided tour is visit Aguas Calientes then board the train. Then we are going to leave you at your hotel in Cusco and you will sleep there.
Overnight in Cusco.
We will proceed to the Sacred Valley after breakfast where we will have an adventure with the ATV in open Andean grounds. Following a brief safety presentation, we will be visiting the fenced terraces which were the experimental corn farm.
Then we will go to the historic salt pans with the mountainside, which has constantly been cut and salt harvested. The white pools, as contrasted to the valley, are themselves a photo worthy of scenery.
Then we will continue to visit some of those interesting places followed by a mountain view location where you can have a meal in a peaceful natural environment with fresh breathing and breathtaking scenery.
The remainder of the afternoon is spent in the mode of relaxing, about which you then land in at night amidst Andean landscape.
Overnight stay in Mountain View.
We will come to the hotel and pick you and join you in a pro cooking studio where you will experience the Peruvian flavors. The entire experience makes you related with the traditions of the country in the form of food.
First we will hit a local industry of color. As we pass by the various colorful booths, you will find native potatoes, fresh chili peppers, exotic fruits, herbs and quinoa. The guide will deconstruct the origins and cultural virtue of these ingredients and assist you in choosing the finest stuff in the course of the class.
In the kitchen, the cook will introduce you to the finest Peruvian dishes step-by-step. You will be taught how to prepare ceviche or causa as an appetizer, and proceed to prepare a main, be it lomo saltado or aji de gallina. You will also prepare a pisco sour, learn the mix tech, when you are cooking.
By the end, you will sit down and feast on all that you were able to cook in the easy-going and friendly set up. We will then drop you at your hotel.
Overnight in Cusco.
At very early morning we will collect you at the hotel to begin a thrilling adventure in the high altitude. We will head towards Cusipata where we will have a typical Andean breakfast to get your energy up for the day.
At breakfast time, we will proceed to the starting point of the ATV way far up the Andes. Upon arrival, you will be briefed on the policy and guidance as well as safety safety points and then you will be put on the road amidst mountainous views that are breathtaking.
The ATV trail brings you up near Rainbow Mountain, which is considered to shorten the hike. It is a short walk to the summit, which is uphill, from the drop-off point. You will have ample time to sleep, take pictures, and enjoy the bright colours of Vinicunca, at the top.
We would later take off on the ATV and go back to Cusipata where we will have a buffet lunch and then drive back to Cusco in the afternoon.
IMPORTANT
Due to the altitude at Rainbow Mountain (up to 5,020 m), it is recommended to
hydrate well before and during the hike, wear warm clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
We shall then pick you after breakfast and bring you to the train station to board the Belmond Andean Explorer, which is one of the most elegant trains in South America. The picturesque voyage is over through the Andean plateau towards Puno.
During the tour, there will be panoramic changes of mountains, expansive plains, and serene lagoons. One of the most important points of the route is the highest place of La Raya Pass, which is just ideal to take photos.
In the cabin, they will experience luxurious comfort with a friendly service, live shows, and a French lunch with Andean cuisine. You also get to see the traditional high land life as you are shown rural communities when you ride the ride.
Upon arrival in Puno, our people will pick you and take you to your hotel around lake Titicaca.
IMPORTANT
Before checking out in Cusco, be sure to che history and art of the imperial city.
We will get you in the morning in the hotel and go to the port to have a boat tour in Lake Titicaca. The first thing is the floating islands of the Uros, completely made of totora reeds.
In the guided visit the local live by using natural materials in the lake and you will get to know how they construct the islands.
Then we will continue with a boat to Amantani Island. Upon arrival, you will be able to experience some local lunch and relax around the place. In the afternoon we shall also hike to one of the highest points on the island and enjoy a gorgeous sunset on the lake.
During nights, you will have dinner with a local family and dance and jam to their music.
Overnight stay on Uros Island.
IMPORTANT
Wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and plenty of water. The altitude is high, so go at your own pace and enjoy the scenery.
During breakfast with your host family, we are going to a boat to Taquile Island. It is a guided walk on the cultural traditions in the island that we will begin with once we are here.
Taquile is famous to maintain ancestral practices and community-based structure. You will come to know their textile art and their routine and social values that control their lifestyle.
A spectacular lake and mountain view will be scooped up during the visit. Noon lunch to be served on the island.
We will later revive the boat to Puno where you will be picked to your hotel.
IMPORTANT
Before leaving the home of the family assigned to you, remember to check your belongings and don't forget to apply sunscreen; the morning radiation is strong.
Before checking out in Cusco, be sure to check your belongings and documents. Puno is a city located at 3800 meters above sea level, so we recommend bringing thermal clothing as it gets noticeably cold at night.
We will pick you and transport you to Juliaca Airport at the required moment. Our crew will assist you in making a smooth and on time departure.
This will mark the end of your trip to Peru 18 day tour package.
IMPORTANT
Don't forget to send us your flight information so we can coordinate your hotel pick-up time.
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Read MoreThis is a journey involving visiting Lima-Paracas-Nazca, to Amazon (Puerto Maldonado), then to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu picchu, Rainbow mountain, Lake titicaca and it ends in Juliaca.
The scenic flight over the Nazca Lines is completely included on Day 4.
Yes, entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2, subject to availability) round-trip bus tickets and train tickets (vistadome one-way,hirambingham return) are included.
Yes 3-night stay at a jungle bungalow in Puerto Maldonado, the guided excursions and meals as well.
Hotels In Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Mountain view, and Puno, Hoteles in Paracas, the Amazon jungle bungalows, and a homestay in the Amazon, rustic style to stay on the island of Amantani.
Breakfast each day is complimentary, and all the lunches and dinners named by the itinerary.
No it is not included in the price, domestic and international flights are extra.
The ATV ride to Rainbow Mountain is on the list, and it will include transportation and a guide.
No, it is not tied in it - it is most strongly suggested.
No, those are optional. Their prices are approximately 60 USD per person, and they should be reserved at least two months in advance as places are limited.
5020 M.S.N.M
Up to Up to 2-8 People People People
Group
Aventure- hike - Nature
Moderate - Difficult
Meta Peru Travel is a licensed and certified luxury travel agency recognized by Peru’s leading tourism and sustainability organizations, ensuring every journey meets the highest international standards.
