Great Peruvian Circuit: North And South
24 Days / 23 Nights
Overview
An extraordinary and complete journey that will allow you to discover the wonders of northern and southern Peru in a single itinerary. Begin by exploring the north, cradle of the ancient Moche, Chimú, and Chachapoyas civilizations, visiting impressive archaeological sites such as Chan Chan, the Royal Tombs of Sipán, and the imposing fortress of Kuélap. Marvel at the third highest waterfall in the world, Gocta, in the midst of a high jungle landscape. Continue your adventure to the south, traveling along the Pacific coast, flying over the enigmatic Nazca Lines and venturing into the Andes to discover the beauty of Arequipa, the depth of Colca Canyon, and the magic of Lake Titicaca. Culminate your journey in the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, exploring Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. An unparalleled tour that will give you a complete vision of Peru’s cultural, historical, and landscape diversity.
Note: This package can be 100% customized by adding extra activities!
- Duration: 24 days
- Departure: Daily
- Destinations: Lima, Trujillo, Chiclayo, Jaén, Chachapoyas, Gocta, Kuélap, Paracas, Nazca, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
| DAY | DESCRIPTION | MEALS | OVERNIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Day 1 |
Arrival in Lima |
—— |
Lima |
|
Day 2 |
Lima – City Tour |
(B) |
Lima |
|
Day 3 |
Lima – Flight to Trujillo |
(B) |
Trujillo |
|
Day 4 |
Trujillo – Chan Chan – Temples of the Sun and Moon |
(B) |
Trujillo |
|
Day 5 |
Trujillo – El Brujo – Chicama – Chiclayo |
(B) |
Chiclayo |
|
Day 6 |
Chiclayo – Royal Tombs of Sipán – Túcume |
(B) |
Chiclayo |
|
Day 7 |
Chiclayo – Sicán Museum – Pómac Forest – Jaén |
(B) |
Jaén |
|
Day 8 |
Jaén – Chachapoyas |
(B) |
Chachapoyas |
|
Day 9 |
Chachapoyas – Gocta Waterfall |
(B) |
Chachapoyas |
|
Day 10 |
Chachapoyas – Kuélap Fortress |
(B) (L) |
Chachapoyas |
|
Day 11 |
Chachapoyas – Karajía Sarcophagi – Return to Jaén |
(B) (L) |
Jaén |
|
Day 12 |
Jaén – Flight to Lima |
(B) |
Lima |
|
Day 13 |
Lima – Paracas (Bus) |
(B) |
Paracas |
|
Day 14 |
Paracas – Ballestas Islands – Nazca |
(B) |
Nazca |
|
Day 15 |
Nazca – Flyover of the Lines – Arequipa (Overnight Bus) |
(B) |
Overnight Bus |
|
Day 16 |
Arequipa – City Tour |
(B) |
Arequipa |
|
Day 17 |
Arequipa – Colca Canyon |
(B) (L) |
Colca |
|
Day 18 |
Colca – Cruz del Cóndor – Puno |
(B) (L) |
Puno |
|
Day 19 |
Puno – Lake Titicaca Islands |
(B) (L) |
Puno |
|
Day 20 |
Puno – Cusco (Tourist Bus/Titicaca Train/Andean Explorer) |
(B) (L) |
Cusco |
|
Day 21 |
Cusco – City Tour |
(B) |
Cusco |
|
Day 22 |
Cusco – Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo) |
(B) (L) |
Sacred Valley |
|
Day 23 |
Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes |
(B) (L) |
Aguas Calientes |
|
Day 24 |
Aguas Calientes – Cusco – Lima – International Departure |
(B) |
—— |
Breakfast (B)
Lunch (L)
Dinner (D)
Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrival in Lima
Welcome at Jorge Chávez International Airport by our staff and transfer to your hotel in the exclusive district of Miraflores. Free time to acclimate and rest from your journey. In the afternoon, if time permits, enjoy a walk along the Miraflores boardwalk with impressive views of the Pacific Ocean. Welcome briefing where our representative will give you the details of your trip and answer your questions.
Day 2:
Lima - City Tour
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit to the archaeological site of Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca pyramid in the middle of the city. Continue with a tour of Lima’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will see the Plaza Mayor (Main Square), the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the San Francisco Convent with its impressive catacombs. Free lunch to taste Lima’s famous gastronomy. In the afternoon, visit to the Larco Museum with its exceptional collection of pre-Columbian art and the bohemian district of Barranco. Rest of the afternoon free to explore on your own or rest.
Day 3:
Lima - Flight to Trujillo
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport to take your flight to Trujillo, known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” Upon arrival, reception and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, tour of Trujillo’s historic center, with its colonial houses, baroque churches, and colorful republican mansions. Visit the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, El Carmen Monastery, and Casa Urquiaga. Rest of the afternoon free to stroll through the city and enjoy local gastronomy. Overnight in Trujillo.
Day 4:
Trujillo - Chan Chan - Temples of the Sun and Moon
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit to Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian adobe city in America and former capital of the Chimú Kingdom. Tour of the Nik-An Palace, one of the best preserved, with its decorated walls, ceremonial plazas, and water reservoirs. Continue to Huanchaco, a traditional beach resort where you can observe fishermen on their reed boats (caballitos de totora). Lunch at a local restaurant with ocean views. In the afternoon, visit to the Huacas del Sol y la Luna (Temples of the Sun and Moon) Archaeological Complex, ceremonial centers of the Moche culture built in adobe. Return to Trujillo and free time. Overnight.
Day 5:
Trujillo - El Brujo - Chicama - Chiclayo
Breakfast at the hotel. Early departure to the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, where the mummy of the Lady of Cao, a Moche ruler, was found. Visit to the modern museum that houses the mummy and her funerary ornaments. Continue to Chicama, home to the world’s longest left wave. Brief stop to appreciate this surfing paradise. Lunch en route. Continue the journey to Chiclayo (approximately 3 hours). Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the afternoon free to explore the city known as the “Capital of Friendship.” Overnight in Chiclayo.
Day 6:
Chiclayo - Royal Tombs of Sipán - Túcume
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit to the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, designed in the shape of a truncated pyramid, which houses the remains and funerary treasures of the Lord of Sipán, a Moche ruler from the 3rd century AD. This world-class museum displays over 1,000 pieces of gold, silver, and copper found intact in the tomb. Lunch at a traditional restaurant. In the afternoon, visit to the Túcume Archaeological Complex, known as the Valley of the Pyramids, with its 26 pyramidal structures from the Lambayeque culture. Return to Chiclayo. Overnight.
Day 7:
Chiclayo - Sicán Museum - Pómac Forest - Jaén
Breakfast at the hotel. Visit to the Sicán National Museum in Ferreñafe, which exhibits artifacts from the Sicán or Lambayeque culture, including the famous winged-eye funerary mask. Continue to the Pómac Forest Historical Sanctuary, a dry equatorial forest that protects endemic species such as the carob tree and more than 20 pyramids of the Sicán culture. Picnic lunch in the forest. In the afternoon, travel to Jaén (approximately 4-5 hours), a strategic city between the coast and the Amazon. Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Jaén.
Day 8:
Jaén - Chachapoyas
Breakfast at the hotel. Early in the morning, departure to Chachapoyas, capital of the Department of Amazonas (approximately 4-5 hours). The journey offers spectacular landscapes as you ascend from the tropical valley to the Andes, passing through the impressive Utcubamba River canyon. Lunch en route. Arrival in Chachapoyas, known as the “Land of the Cloud People.” Check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon, walk through this picturesque colonial city and visit the Plaza de Armas and the Leymebamba Museum, which houses more than 200 Chachapoyas mummies. Overnight in Chachapoyas.
Day 9:
Chachapoyas - Gocta Waterfall
Breakfast at the hotel. Day dedicated to an unforgettable excursion to Gocta Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in the world with a 771-meter drop. Transfer to the village of Cocachimba, starting point of the hike. Moderate trek of approximately 2.5-3 hours through cloud forests, observing exotic flora and fauna including orchids, bromeliads, monkeys, and the cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird. Upon reaching the base of the waterfall, time to contemplate the majesty of Gocta and possibility of a refreshing swim in its waters (depending on conditions). Picnic lunch. Return to Cocachimba and transfer to Chachapoyas. Overnight.
Day 10:
Chachapoyas - Kuélap Fortress
Breakfast at the hotel. Full-day excursion to the spectacular fortress of Kuélap, known as the “Machu Picchu of the north,” built by the Chachapoyas culture on top of a mountain (3,000 masl). From the village of Nuevo Tingo, you will board the cable car that will comfortably take you to the archaeological area. Exploration of this impressive walled citadel with more than 400 circular structures, decorated with geometric friezes. Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, return to Chachapoyas. Free time to rest. Overnight.
Day 11:
Chachapoyas - Karajía Sarcophagi - Return to Jaén
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, excursion to the Karajía Sarcophagi, impressive anthropomorphic funerary statues of the Chachapoyas culture located on an almost inaccessible cliff. Moderate hike to the viewpoint from where these 2-meter-high sarcophagi can be observed. Light lunch. In the afternoon, return journey to Jaén (approximately 4-5 hours). Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Free time to rest. Overnight in Jaén.
Day 12:
Jaén - Flight to Lima
Breakfast at the hotel. Free time in the morning for last-minute shopping at the local market. At the indicated time, transfer to Jaén airport to take your return flight to Lima. Reception and transfer to your hotel in Lima. Rest of the day free to rest or do optional activities. Overnight in Lima.
Day 13:
Lima - Paracas (Bus)
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the bus station to take your transportation to Paracas (approximately 3.5 hours). Upon arrival at this coastal area, reception and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, free time to enjoy the hotel facilities or take an optional tour of the Paracas National Reserve, an impressive wildlife sanctuary with spectacular rock formations, deserted beaches, and cliffs facing the sea. On this optional tour, you can appreciate “La Catedral,” an impressive rock formation sculpted by wind and sea. Overnight in Paracas.
Day 14:
Paracas - Ballestas Islands - Nazca
Early breakfast at the hotel. Boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, known as “Peru’s Galapagos.” During this 2-hour tour, you will observe abundant marine fauna including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and hundreds of guano birds. You will also spot the enigmatic “Candelabro,” a geoglyph carved in the sand visible only from the sea. Return to land and transfer to the bus station to continue to Nazca (approximately 3 hours). Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Free afternoon to rest or visit the Antonini Archaeological Museum, which exhibits important pieces of the Nazca culture. Overnight in Nazca.
Day 15:
Nazca - Fly over of the Lines - Arequipa (Overnight Bus)
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, transfer to the Nazca aerodrome to take the exciting flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During this approximately 30-35 minute flight, you will be able to appreciate from the air the mysterious figures traced in the desert: the hummingbird, the monkey, the condor, the spider, the astronaut, among others. Return to the hotel to pick up your luggage. Free time for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, optional visit to the Cantalloc aqueduct, an ancient hydraulic system of the Nazca culture. At the indicated time, transfer to the station to take the overnight bus to Arequipa (approximately 9 hours). Night aboard a fully reclining bed-seat bus.
Day 16:
Arequipa - City Tour
Arrival in Arequipa early in the morning. Reception and transfer to your hotel to leave your luggage (check-in according to availability or from 14:00). Free time for breakfast and refreshing. In the afternoon, visit to the “White City” with its impressive colonial architecture built in sillar (white volcanic stone). Tour of the Plaza de Armas and its imposing Cathedral, the Santa Catalina Monastery (a city within the city), the Church of the Company of Jesus with its spectacular baroque facade and cloisters, and the traditional neighborhoods of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto with their viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Chili Valley and the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. Rest of the afternoon free to explore the city on your own or try delicious Arequipa cuisine. Overnight in Arequipa.
Day 17:
Arequipa - Colca Canyon
Breakfast at the hotel. Early departure to the spectacular Colca Canyon (approximately 3-4 hours), one of the deepest in the world. The route crosses the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can observe vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat. Ascent along the route until reaching the highest point at Patapampa (4,910 masl), known as “The Viewpoint of the Volcanoes.” Descent to the Colca Valley, with stops in picturesque villages such as Chivay and Yanque, famous for their colonial churches and ancestral traditions. Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, possibility to enjoy the thermal waters of La Calera (not included). Check-in at your hotel in the Colca Valley. Free dinner and overnight.
Day 18:
Colca - Cruz del Cóndor - Puno
Very early breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Cruz del Cóndor, the best spot to observe the impressive flight of the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) and the immensity of the canyon. Time to contemplate this natural spectacle and take photographs. Visit to some traditional villages of the valley such as Pinchollo, Maca, and Achoma, where you can appreciate pre-Inca terraces still in use and colonial temples. Lunch en route. Continuation of the journey to Puno, on the shores of the legendary Lake Titicaca (approximately 6 hours). The route offers beautiful landscapes of the Andean highlands. Arrival in Puno and transfer to your hotel. Free time to acclimate to the altitude (3,810 masl). Overnight in Puno.
Day 19:
Puno - Lake Titicaca Islands
Breakfast at the hotel. Full-day excursion to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Transfer to the port and boat embarkation to visit the fascinating floating islands of the Uros, built with totora reed. Their inhabitants, known as the “Lake People,” will show you their unique way of life and traditions. Continue to Taquile Island, known for its fine textiles considered Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Walk around the island to learn about its customs and enjoy spectacular views of the lake. Lunch at a local restaurant on the island, based on organic products grown by the community. In the afternoon, return to Puno. Free time to rest or stroll through the city center. Overnight in Puno.
Day 20:
Puno - Cusco (Tourist Bus/Titicaca Train/Andean Explorer)
Breakfast at the hotel. Depending on the option chosen, transfer to the station to take:
- Tourist bus to Cusco with stops at archaeological sites such as Pukara, Raqchi, and the “Sistine Chapel of America” in Andahuaylillas. Buffet lunch en route.
- Titicaca Train with first-class service, crossing the highlands with spectacular views. Gourmet lunch on board.
- Andean Explorer luxury train, premium experience with private cabins and signature cuisine. Gourmet lunch included.
Arrival in Cusco in the afternoon. Reception and transfer to your hotel in the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Free time to acclimate to the altitude (3,400 masl) and begin to explore this magical city. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 21:
Cusco - City Tour
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning free to rest or walk through the San Blas neighborhood, known for its craft workshops. In the afternoon, tour of the imperial city, declared a World Heritage Site. Visit to the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral housing invaluable works of colonial art, and the Koricancha (Temple of the Sun), on which the Santo Domingo Convent was built. Continue to the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuamán, an impressive ceremonial fortress with enormous perfectly assembled stone blocks; Qenqo, a ceremonial and ritual center where sacrifices were performed; Puca Pucará, an ancient inn and control post on the Inca road; and Tambomachay, known as “The Baths of the Inca.” Return to Cusco and free time to enjoy the city’s nightlife. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 22:
Cusco - Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo)
Breakfast at the hotel. Full-day excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Visit to the town of Pisac and its colorful craft market, where you can purchase beautiful textiles and ceramics. Ascent to the Inca ruins of Pisac, with impressive agricultural terraces built on the mountainside. Descent to the valley to enjoy a buffet lunch with traditional Andean dishes. In the afternoon, visit to Ollantaytambo, the only Inca town still inhabited today that maintains its original layout. Exploration of its imposing archaeological complex with monumental terraces and its fortress that served as a religious, administrative, and military center. Transfer to your hotel in the Sacred Valley. Free time to relax and enjoy the landscape. Overnight in the Sacred Valley.
Day 23:
Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
Breakfast at the hotel. Early transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. Spectacular journey of approximately 1.5 hours following the course of the Urubamba River through the canyon. Arrival in Aguas Calientes and bus transfer via the zigzagging road to the entrance of the Machu Picchu citadel, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Guided visit of approximately 2.5-3 hours through this amazing archaeological site, discovering its main enclosures such as the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Royal Quarters, the Sun Dial, and the Agricultural Sector. Free time to explore on your own or meditate in this magical place. Lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge restaurant, next to the citadel. In the afternoon, descent to Aguas Calientes. Free time to visit the craft market or enjoy the town’s hot springs (not included). Free dinner and overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 24:
Aguas Calientes - Cusco - Lima - International Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning free for optional activities such as a second visit to Machu Picchu (not included, must be requested in advance) or a hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain (subject to availability, not included). At the indicated time, transfer to the station to take the train back to Ollantaytambo. Reception and transfer by road to Cusco. Free time until your flight to Lima. Arrival in Lima and connection with your international flight. End of our services. We hope to see you soon on your next adventure in Peru!
Included
Included
- Personalized assistance at all airports and stations
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- 22 nights accommodation in selected hotels (3 Lima, 2 Trujillo, 2 Chiclayo, 2 Jaén, 3 Chachapoyas, 1 Paracas, 1 Nazca, 1 Arequipa, 1 Colca, 2 Puno, 2 Cusco, 1 Sacred Valley, 1 Aguas Calientes)
- 1 night on a bed-seat bus (Nazca-Arequipa)
- Daily breakfasts at hotels
- 14 lunches according to itinerary
- All visits mentioned with professional bilingual guides
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites and attractions mentioned
- Cable car excursion to Kuélap
- Excursion to the Ballestas Islands
- Flyover of the Nazca Lines
- Tour to Colca Canyon
- Excursion to Lake Titicaca islands
- Tourist bus or train (Titicaca/Andean Explorer) from Puno to Cusco (according to chosen option)
- Land transportation in tourist vehicles
- Round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes bus tickets
- Travel kit and information materials
- Traveler assistance insurance
Not Included
- International flights
- Domestic flights (Lima-Trujillo, Jaén-Lima, Cusco-Lima)
- Airport departure tax (if applicable)
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the program
- Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Personal expenses or unspecified services
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain (must be requested in advance)
- Optional excursions during free days
- Trip cancellation insurance
Important Notes:
- This itinerary combines diverse ecosystems and altitudes, from sea level to 3,800 masl
- Moderate physical condition is required for the visit to Gocta Waterfall and Kuélap
- Roads in the northern region, especially towards Chachapoyas, can be winding
- The Kuélap cable car is subject to operational and weather conditions
- The visit to Machu Picchu is subject to the circuit assigned by the Sanctuary administration
- The Nazca Lines flyover is subject to weather conditions
- The overnight buses mentioned are of superior category with fully reclining bed-seats
- The visit to the Ballestas Islands is subject to weather conditions
- The order of visits may vary according to weather and operational conditions
- It is recommended to bring clothing for different climates: light for the coast and north, and warm for the Andes
- It is recommended to book in advance, especially for the high season (May to September)
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