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. Start smaller with the Luxury Peru Highlights tour — a 10-day journey through Cusco and Machu Picchu. 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 arrival in Lima, we'll welcome you and coordinate your check-in so you can start your trip with peace of mind. Depending on your arrival point (airport or bus terminal), we'll transfer you to your hotel and provide a brief practical orientation: currency exchange, safety recommendations, how to get around the city, and helpful tips to make the most of your time stress-free.
After check-in, you'll have the afternoon free to relax after your journey or explore Lima at your own pace. If you feel like going out, you can choose from relaxed and very "Lima-esque" options:
- Miraflores: stroll along the boardwalk with ocean views, parks, cafes, and photo spots.
- Barranco: bohemian streets, urban art, bridges, and beautiful sunsets perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Shopping mall or local market: ideal if you want to buy snacks, souvenirs, or anything else you might need for your trip.
- Gastronomy: the perfect afternoon to try anticuchos, causa limeña, lomo saltado, or a delicious ceviche (depending on your tolerance and preference). At the end of the day, you'll return to your hotel on your own (or, if you'd like, transportation can be arranged). The evening is free for dinner and rest.
Overnight in Lima.
We'll start the day in Miraflores after breakfast at our hotel. Our guide will pick us up and we'll head to the Malecón (boardwalk). We'll pass by the Love Park, where the Pacific Ocean offers breathtaking views.
The next site is the adobe pyramid Huaca Pucllana that is an unbelievable pre-Inca structure in the heart of town. We will take a guided tour to discover how the inhabitants of Lima created ceremonial and administrative complexes long before the arrival of the Spanish.
Next, we go to San Isidro to walk through Parque de los Olivos, a calm olive grove that dates back to the 16 th century.The narrow streets provide a relaxing retreat before the entrance to the Historic Center with the still trees of the colonial era.
During the afternoon, we’ll reach Plaza Mayor de Lima where the city was born. We’ll visit the Government Palace, the Lima Cathedral and the Archbishop Palace on the outside and chat about the colonial nature of Peru. Then we leap into Convento de Santo Domingo, and push through narrow cloisters, ancient libraries and religious art, which show centuries of tradition.
And to conclude the day, we sample out a variety of pisco in a vintage bar(not included) and then off to your hotel in Miraflores.
We depart from Lima for Paracas, a coastal destination famous for its biodiversity and its landscapes that blend sea and desert. Upon arrival, you'll have some time to settle in and enjoy a light snack before the main activity begins.
Then we board a boat to visit the Ballestas Islands, where you can see the Candelabro geoglyph from the sea and observe marine wildlife such as sea lions, guano birds, and, depending on the season, Humboldt penguins. It's an ideal experience for taking photos and learning about one of the most important ecosystems on the Peruvian coast. Combine highlights with our Luxury Cusco Tour Package featuring Rainbow Mountain.
Upon returning to Paracas, you'll have free time for lunch on the boardwalk, with a variety of seafood and local dishes to choose from. (Lunch is at your own expense.) Afterward, we continue to Ica to visit the Huacachina oasis, surrounded by giant dunes. Here we offer a dune buggy and sandboarding experience, exploring the desert with stops at scenic viewpoints for photos. It's the most adventurous part of the day and a traveler favorite. Afterward, we return to Paracas, where the tour concludes with check-in and rest. You'll have the evening free to stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy a leisurely dinner, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
Overnight in Paracas.
In the morning, our staff will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the bus station, where you will board a tourist bus to the city of Nazca, a journey of approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to take you to the Nazca airport, where you will receive the necessary instructions before the overflight.
You will enjoy a breathtaking 30-minute flight over the famous Nazca Lines, from where you can appreciate 12 geoglyphic figures, including the Spider, the Monkey, the Dog, the Lizard, the Hummingbird, and the Condor. These figures, ranging from 15 to 300 meters in length and 30 centimeters in depth, represent an invaluable pre-Incan cultural legacy of the region. During the flight, you will have the opportunity to take photos and videos to capture this unique experience.
At the end of the tour, you will have free time for lunch if you wish, and afterwards you will be transferred to the Nazca bus station to board your bus back to the city of Lima and conclude this beautiful experience.
Overnight in Lima.
In the morning, after breakfast, our team will transfer you from your hotel in Lima to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your flight to Puerto Maldonado . As we approach, the dense Amazon rainforest dwarfs the desert landscape of the coast, offering a more expansive view of the trees and rivers.
Upon arrival at the Puerto Maldonado airport, our team will be waiting to transfer you to the river port. We will then cross the Madre de Dios River in a motorized canoe and immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the rainforest. Along the way, we may observe capybaras, turtles, and herons.
When we get to the Amazon lodge and you get settled in your bungalow, you will be able to take a meal with forest sounds. In the late afternoon, we will walk on a local trail where the guide discusses medicinal plants, giant ceiba trees and the intricate jungle environment.
Once the dinner is finished, we go out at night to have a river run in search of caimans along the banks. The light in their eyes seen in the flashlight is quite an exhilarating and captivating beginning to Amazon wildlife. At the end of our excursion, we will return to the lodge to rest and conclude this wonderful day.
Overnight at the lodge.
Our morning is kicked off by howler monkeys and the flock of tropical birds. In the morning we take a breakfast walk in the woods on our guided hiking trip after breakfast at the lodge. Cracking trees and littered roads take us across the streams and through the flooded areas further into the jungle.
In midday, we reached Lake Apu Victor, which was an undisturbed place bordered by giant trees and wetlands. This is observed at a deck above the canopy where we are able to see the forest and water. Hopefully, we will see macaws and toucans, herons, turtles, caimans--and perhaps a giant river otter.
The afternoon adventure begins after a lunch and a short relaxation at the lodge. The Madre de Dios river takes us on a brief boat ride to Monkey Island where we will be surrounded by all kinds of primates
The island will also have capuchins, squirrel monkeys, spider monkeys and little marmosets in its woods. The river sets the sun making the scene appear to be all gold. We go then to the lodge where we dine in the evening and spend the night in the lodge.
Overnight at the lodge.
Early in the morning, after breakfast, we'll embark on a journey to Cocha Perdida, a refuge teeming with wildlife: otters, turtles, caimans, and rainbow birds. Its cool climate makes discovering the fauna even more rewarding. Furthermore, its excellent protection ensures the area remains pristine.
Upon arrival, we'll ascend to an observation platform where we can admire the endless green landscape stretching in every direction. Afterward, we'll take a short, relaxing canoe ride on the lake before returning to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you'll have the option of visiting a small botanical garden where we can learn about medicinal plants or simply relaxing by the pool. As evening approaches, we'll have dinner and some time to enjoy our last night in the Peruvian Amazon.Adventurers can explore our Peru Premium Adventure — 15 days through the Amazon and Machu Picchu.
Overnight at the lodge.
After breakfast, we navigate back along the Madre de Dios River to Puerto Maldonado and transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco.
Upon arrival, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Cusco's historic center, where you can check in and settle in. Due to the altitude (3,399 m / 11,152 ft), it is recommended that you take it easy and use the time to rest and acclimatize.
In the afternoon, you will have free time to begin exploring this enchanting city. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, admire the colonial architecture, visit the Plaza de Armas with its impressive churches and balconies, or enjoy a coffee on a terrace overlooking the majestic Andes. This first afternoon in Cusco is ideal for acclimatizing, relaxing, and immersing yourself in the history and culture that make the city unique.
Optional experiences available:
Overnight in Cusco.
In the morning, after a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you'll have free time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
In the afternoon, we'll begin an exclusive City Tour of Cusco, visiting the main historical sites:
- Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): One of the most sacred sites of the Inca era, where ancestral architecture blends with colonial construction.
- Cusco Cathedral: Artistic jewels of the Cusco School.
- Sacsayhuaman: Majestic Inca fortress with enormous stone walls.
- Q'enqo: Ancient ceremonial sanctuary.
- Puca Pucara: Known as the "Red Fort."
- Tambomachay: Famous for its water fountains dedicated to worship and purification.
At the end of the tour, you'll return to your hotel, with the option of enjoying a relaxing afternoon or a gourmet dinner at one of Cusco's exclusive restaurants.
Overnight in Cusco.
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, our Meta Peru Travel team will pick you up to begin a fascinating excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of Peru's most impressive and culturally rich routes.
Our first stop will be at the Taray viewpoint, where you can admire the majesty of the valley and its agricultural terraces. Next, we'll visit the traditional town of Pisac, famous for its impressive archaeological site and lively artisan market, ideal for finding colorful textiles, ceramics, and local jewelry.
We'll continue to Urubamba, where you'll enjoy a buffet lunch at a cozy local restaurant surrounded by Andean landscapes. In the afternoon, we'll explore the fortress of Ollantaytambo, an architectural gem of the Inca Empire, whose enormous carved stones and agricultural terraces reflect the grandeur of this civilization.
At the end of the excursion, we will head to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you can rest and prepare for the next adventure of your trip.
Overnight stay in Sacred Valley.
Early in the morning, after a light breakfast at your hotel, our Meta Peru Travel team will pick you up from your hotel in the sacred valley to begin the most anticipated trip: a visit to the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.
We will board the luxury train to Aguas Calientes, enjoying a scenic journey surrounded by mountains, verdant valleys, and the murmur of the Urubamba River. During the trip, you can relax with first-class service, Andean music, and landscapes that seem straight out of a dream.
Upon arrival, a short bus ride will take us to the entrance of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, where our expert guide will reveal the mysteries and secrets of this majestic feat of Inca engineering. Explore temples, staircases, and terraces while feeling the mystical energy of this sacred place, surrounded by lush nature. After the visit, you will descend to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at the restaurant of your choice (lunch at passenger's expense). Afterward, you will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our team will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco.
In the morning, our team will pick you up from your hotel to begin your adventure in the Sacred Valley. After a brief safety briefing, we'll start our ATV excursion to Moray.
The route to Moray is a circular ATV tour that traverses open Andean landscapes, cultivated fields, and offers spectacular panoramic views. Upon arrival, we'll visit the impressive circular terraces, considered an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory, where our guide will explain their historical and scientific significance. After the ATV tour, we'll transfer by tourist transport to the famous Maras Salt Mines, a complex of over 3,000 salt ponds that have been exploited since pre-Inca times.
Here, we'll enjoy a guided tour and have time for taking photographs. In the afternoon, we'll head to Mountain View, where we'll enjoy a delicious lunch in a natural setting surrounded by lush vegetation. After lunch in this magical place, we'll check into our rooms at this mountain sanctuary, a place reserved for a select few. As night falls, we will enjoy dinner (not included) and later we will be dazzled by a starry sky where we can see the Milky Way, the Southern Cross and the constellations.
Overnight stay in Mountain View.
In the morning, after breakfast, our transportation will pick you up from Mountain View and take you to your hotel in Cusco. There, you'll have time to drop off your luggage before embarking on one of the most exciting experiences: a professional cooking class where you'll savor the flavors of Peru. This entire experience will connect you with the country's traditions through its gastronomy.
First, we'll head to the San Pedro Market, where we'll browse the various stalls offering native potatoes, fresh chilies, exotic fruits, herbs, and quinoa. The guide will explain the origins and cultural significance of these ingredients and help you choose the best ones to cook. After shopping, we'll move to the kitchen where you'll learn culinary techniques for preparing Peruvian food.
In the kitchen, the chef will teach you step-by-step how to make the best Peruvian dishes. You'll learn to prepare ceviche or causa as an appetizer, and then a main course, such as lomo saltado or ají de gallina. You'll also prepare a pisco sour and learn the mixing technique while you cook.
Finally, you can sit down and enjoy everything you've cooked in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Afterward, we'll take you back to your hotel, bringing to a close a day full of fun and learning. 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.
We will depart before dawn and head south towards Cusipata, where we will enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast. Then we will continue to the starting point where our off-road vehicles await us, at an approximate altitude of 4,600 meters, near Vinicunca Mountain.
Next, we will receive a brief explanation on the proper use of the off-road vehicles. Afterward, we will drive for approximately 40 minutes to the mountain's summit. The landscape will be composed of snow-capped peaks and expansive valleys. Toward the end, we will take a short hike to the top, at an altitude of 5,020 meters.
Upon reaching Rainbow Mountain, we will photograph the colorful mineral layers and enjoy the Andean panorama. We will then descend by off-road vehicle and return to our restaurant in the town of Cusipata for lunch.
After lunch, we will return to our hotel in Cusco, thus concluding this unforgettable day.
Overnight in Cusco
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.
In the morning, after breakfast in Cusco, we will transfer to the train station to board the Belmond Andean Explorer, a luxury train with panoramic views that travels through the Andean highlands.
During the journey, you will enjoy:
- Spectacular landscapes: mountains, plains, and Andean lagoons.
- La Raya: the highest point on the route (4,335 m), ideal for memorable photos.
- Comfort and luxury on board: panoramic carriages, live music, and a gourmet lunch.
- Local culture: passing through Andean communities, where you can observe their traditional way of life.
At the end of the journey, we will arrive in the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca, where our staff will transfer you to your hotel.
Overnight in Puno
IMPORTANT
Before checking out in Cusco, be sure to che history and art of the imperial city.
Today we will explore Lake Titicaca and its islands. We will begin with a 7:50 a.m. pick-up from your hotel to head to the port and take a boat to the floating islands of the Uros. We will arrive at 9:15 a.m., where we will have a guided tour of the Uros Islands, known for their unique way of life, using totora reeds (aquatic plants) in their houses, rafts, and handicrafts.
Then we will continue our tour to Amantaní Island (3,663 m). We will arrive around 1:30 p.m., where we will enjoy a typical lunch and have time to relax and explore the island. At 3:00 p.m., we will begin a hike to Pachatata, one of the highest points to watch the sunset.
We will return at 6:00 p.m. We will share dinner and participate in folk dances with local families, dressed in traditional village costumes.
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.
In the morning, at 7:00 a.m., we will have breakfast with the families of Amantaní and then head to Taquile Island (3950 m). We will arrive at Taquile at 10:30 a.m., where we will begin a hike to explore the island and discover a traditional way of life where property is private, but work is collective, with around 300 inhabitants who alternate days of individual and communal work. Taquile follows the Inca principles of "do not steal, do not lie, and do not be idle," customs they have maintained for centuries. During our visit, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the Altiplano. At midday, we will enjoy a typical lunch.
Finally, we will board our boat, which will take us back to Puno. We will arrive at the port of Puno at approximately 3:00 p.m. and then be transferred to our hotel in the city of Puno.
Overnight in Puno.
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.
On the last day of your trip, at the pre-arranged time, we will transfer you from your hotel to Juliaca Airport.
Our staff will assist you to ensure a comfortable and punctual transfer, marking the end of this unforgettable experience in Peru.
End of our services.
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.
