...

Peru and the Southern Archaeological & Amazon Route: A 15-Day Journey

Discover the cultural and natural richness of Peru on an extraordinary 15-day journey through Cusco, Arequipa, and the iconic Machu Picchu
This itinerary also includes the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, where colorful Andean landscapes create one of Peru’s most impressive natural wonders…
The journey concludes in the Amazon region of Puerto Maldonado, offering a unique contrast between ancient civilizations and the biodiversity of the Peruvian rainforest.

15 days 14 nights

Group size 2-12

Starting Point - Lima

January to December

Arrival in Lima

Reception at the airport and transfer to your selected hotel in Lima.

Overnight in Lima.

Lima City Tour & Flight to Arequipa

Pickup from your hotel to begin a 3 hour and 30 minute city tour of Lima, Peru’s capital, beautifully surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. We drive along the Malecón of Miraflores and stop at the iconic Park of Love, offering the best panoramic views of the city’s coastline.

We then continue to the Huaca Pucllana, an impressive adobe pyramid that rises like a sleeping giant among modern buildings. The guide explains how, centuries before the Incas, sacred rituals were performed at this important ceremonial site. (Entrance not included.)

Next, we head to the Historic Center of Lima. Walking through its colonial streets, the guide takes us to the Plaza Mayor of Lima, surrounded by the Lima Cathedral, the Government Palace of Peru with its solemn balconies, and the Municipal Palace.

We then continue to the San Francisco Convent, a true architectural treasure. Its cloisters decorated with Sevillian tiles, paintings from the Cusco School of Art, and underground passages lead to the famous catacombs, offering a fascinating encounter with Lima’s colonial past.

On the return, we pass by Plaza San Martín, where pigeons and elegant republican façades create a nostalgic atmosphere.

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport to take the flight to the Arequipa, known as The White City. Upon arrival, reception and transfer to the selected hotel.

Overnight in Arequipa.

Arequipa City Tour (Afternoon)

Between 2:00 pm and 2:30 pm, hotel pickup to begin the city tour at the Yanahuara Viewpoint, famous for its elegant sillar stone arches that frame the imposing silhouette of El Misti Volcano. We then continue to the Carmen Alto Viewpoint, where the Chili River winds through lush green agricultural terraces. The fresh air and panoramic views remind visitors that Arequipa is a city where agricultural heritage and modern life coexist.

We return to the historic center to visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, a true city within a city. Its narrow stone streets, vividly painted blue and deep red walls, and quiet courtyards transport visitors back in time. Walking through the monastery feels like stepping into a living history book—once a place of strict enclosure, today it reveals its secrets to travelers.

The tour continues to the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa, considered one of the most beautiful main squares in Peru. We also visit the Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía), with its impressive cloisters and dome, and the Tristán del Pozo Mansion, an outstanding example of colonial architecture.

Return to the hotel at approximately 5:00 pm.
Overnight in Arequipa.

Colca Valley Tour from Arequipa (Full Day)

Passenger pickup between 7:30 am and 8:00 am, followed by departure from Arequipa toward the Colca Valley via the Yura route, passing through Pampa Cañahua and the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where we may observe vicuñas in their natural habitat.

We stop at Patahuasi to enjoy a traditional Inca tea, then continue across the Toccra Plains, where birdwatching is possible in the high-altitude wetlands (bofedales). We also visit the Volcanoes Viewpoint, the highest point of the route at 4,910 meters above sea level (16,109 ft).

Arrival in Chivay at approximately 12:00 pm.

In the afternoon, guests staying in Chivay will visit the La Calera Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic and medicinal thermal waters.

For guests staying at Colca Lodge, the hotel features private thermal baths, where lunch will be served.

Included: Lunch.

Colca Canyon – Condor Cross Viewpoint & Transfer to Puno

At 6:30 am, we depart for the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, a strategic observation point offering breathtaking views of the canyon and the spectacular flight of the Andean condor.

On the return journey, we stop at the traditional villages of Maca and Yanque, both known for their beautiful colonial churches. We also visit the viewpoints of Antahuilque Viewpoint, Huayrapunko Viewpoint, and Peña Blanca Viewpoint, from where we can admire the stunning landscapes of the Colca Valley and its impressive pre-Inca agricultural terraces.

Lunch is served in Chivay.

After lunch, we continue with the transfer from Chivay to Puno. Along the route, we may stop at Lagunillas, where several lagoons can be seen, along with a variety of migratory bird species.

Arrival in Puno between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm.

Included: Lunch in Chivay.

Lake Titicaca Tour: Uros Floating Islands & Taquile Island

Between 7:00 am and 7:30 am, pickup directly from your hotel to begin a journey across the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca. A local guide awaits at the port and invites you to board the boat that will sail across the calm waters of the lake.

As the engine starts, the boat gently cuts through the tranquil waters. Gradually, in the distance, small floating islands made entirely of totora reeds appear—these are the Uros Floating Islands.

Upon arrival, the local inhabitants welcome you with warm smiles and colorful traditional clothing. They share the story of how their ancestors built the islands using layers of totora reeds and how, even today, they continue renewing them regularly so they do not sink. Walking on the soft surface, you can hear the reeds gently crunch beneath your feet. Families show you their homes, their way of life, and may even invite you to take a ride on the famous totora reed boats.

After the visit, the guide announces that the adventure continues. You return to the boat and head toward Taquile Island, with a journey of nearly two hours by boat.

Once on the island, you begin an uphill walk along a path surrounded by green agricultural terraces and wildflowers. At the main square, local residents welcome you with music and explain their strong community-based organization—on Taquile Island, everyone participates in the social and economic life of the community.

Lunch is served overlooking the lake and includes a hot quinoa soup, fresh trout, and muña herbal tea, offering an authentic taste of traditional Andean cuisine.

After the visit, the guide announces the return. You board the boat once again with the feeling of having experienced a day rich in culture, landscapes, and living traditions.

Overnight in Puno.
Included: Lunch on Taquile Island.

Tourist Bus Journey from Puno to Cusco – Manco Cápac Route

Departure at 7:00 am aboard a tourist bus traveling along the Manco Cápac Tourist Corridor, which connects the cities of Puno and Cusco. The bus is operated with professional guides, allowing travelers to discover the most important attractions along the route.

Visits include the Pukara Lithic Museum, followed by the scenic stop at La Raya Pass, where we enjoy views of snow-capped mountains, alpacas, and vicuñas. Lunch is served in Sicuani.

In the afternoon, we visit the Raqchi Archaeological Complex, an important Inca site, and the Andahuaylillas Church, famous for its extraordinary murals and baroque decoration.

Arrival in Cusco at approximately 4:30 pm. Reception and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Cusco.
Included: Lunch.


Optional Upgrade: Luxury Train – PeruRail Titicaca

ADDITIONAL OPTION: Departures on MONDAYS, THURSDAYS, and SATURDAYS aboard the PeruRail Titicaca.
Additional cost: USD 265 per person.

Departure at 7:30 am – Arrival at 5:50 pm.
This exclusive 10-hour luxury train journey travels through stunning landscapes between Cusco and Puno, crossing serene waters and dazzling peaks of the Peruvian Altiplano. The experience is enriched with live Andean musicians and traditional dances, a welcome Pisco Sour, and a carefully prepared gourmet lunch on board.

Cusco City Tour & Nearby Archaeological Sites (Afternoon)

Between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm, we visit the heart of the ancient capital of the Tahuantinsuyo: the Plaza de Armas of Cusco. Surrounded by colonial churches and finely carved wooden balconies, its atmosphere vibrates between the Inca past and the Spanish legacy. We enter the Cusco Cathedral, where Cusco’s Baroque art seems to dialogue with hidden Andean symbols subtly embedded within golden brushstrokes.

Just a few steps away, we visit Qorikancha, where perfectly assembled stone walls recall the grandeur and advanced engineering of the Incas.

We then leave the historic center and ascend toward the archaeological sites overlooking the city. Our first stop is Sacsayhuamán, a monumental fortress built with cyclopean stone blocks so massive they seem to have been carved by giants.

We continue to Qenqo, a ceremonial site where stone passageways once guarded the secrets of ancestral rituals. Finally, we visit Tambomachay, where the gentle murmur of flowing water speaks of the sacred connection between the Incas and nature.

Return to the hotel at approximately 6:00 pm.
Overnight in Cusco.

Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour & Train to Aguas Calientes

Between 7:20 am and 8:00 am, pickup from your hotel to begin our excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This beautiful valley is formed by numerous rivers flowing through lush green ravines and fertile small valleys, creating one of the most scenic regions in the Andes.

Our first stop is the Pisaq Archaeological Site, an impressive complex built during the height of the Inca Empire. Here, we admire the remarkable achievements of the Incas, reflected in the vast network of agricultural terraces that virtually cover the surrounding mountainsides.

We then visit a picturesque artisan market, followed by lunch at one of the traditional local restaurants in the village.

Later, we continue to the town of Ollantaytambo, where we explore the impressive Ollantaytambo Fortress, an outstanding example of Inca architecture and urban planning.

In the afternoon, transfer to the Ollantaytambo Train Station to board the Voyager Train to Aguas Calientes, a small town located near the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
The train journey lasts approximately 2 hours and offers spectacular scenery along the route, where Andean highlands and lush jungle landscapes blend together. This is undoubtedly one of the most scenic train journeys in Peru.

Voyager Train departure: 4:36 pm – Arrival: 6:09 pm.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Included: Lunch.

Machu Picchu Guided Visit & Optional Huayna Picchu Hike

Departure from the bus station to board the shuttle that takes us uphill to the ruins of Machu Picchu. This short 20-minute bus ride follows a steep, unpaved, zigzagging road through a jungle-covered mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the way.

Morning mist welcomes us at the entrance to Machu Picchu, as if the surrounding mountains were still protecting the secret of the Lost City. With the guide leading the way, we advance slowly until—through the fog—the unmistakable silhouette of the stone terraces and walls emerges. The murmur of visitors fades away, replaced by a single heartfelt realization: we are standing before one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.


Optional Add-On: Huayna Picchu Entrance (Subject to Availability)

ADDITIONAL: Entrance to Huayna Picchu (subject to availability).
Travelers who wish to hike Huayna Picchu must purchase an additional entrance ticket, USD 60 per person.

  • Guide not included

  • Self-guided hike

  • Approximate hiking time: 2 hours


In the afternoon, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where there will be free time for lunch (lunch not included).

Return by train and bus to Cusco. Reception and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake (Adventure Excursions) OR Cusco Walking Tour

Choose One Option

Option 1: Adventure & Nature Excursions

On this day, you may choose one of two adventure and nature excursions. Both offer breathtaking landscapes; however, please note that they require significant physical effort, which should be carefully considered.

  • Departure from Cusco: 5:00 am

  • Return: 5:00 pm

Humantay Lake Excursion

  • Hiking time: approximately 2 hours

  • Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 ft)

  • Destination: Humantay Lake

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) Excursion

  • Hiking time: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

  • Altitude: 5,000 meters (16,404 ft)

  • Destination: Rainbow Mountain

Both routes include moderately steep uphill sections and gradually ascending plains.
For both hikes, horses can be rented on site, led by local muleteers.

Included: Basic breakfast and lunch.


Option 2: Cusco Walking Tour (3 Hours)

Experience Cusco through the eyes of a local. Feel its energy and be captivated by its living history on this unforgettable guided walking tour of the Imperial City.

During this 3-hour walking tour, you will explore the most emblematic sites of the historic center, including the Plaza de Armas of Cusco, the charming San Blas neighborhood, and the impressive Inca stone walls, surrounded by colonial streets and historic architecture.

Flight to Puerto Maldonado & Amazon Rainforest Experience

At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport for the morning flight to Puerto Maldonado (approximately 1 hour flight).

Upon arrival, reception by a naturalist guide and transfer by boat to the selected Amazon jungle lodge. Arrival at the lodge and, in the afternoon, an introductory “terra firme” rainforest walk, an ecosystem dominated by giant trees, where you will observe insects, butterflies, medicinal plants, and a wide variety of Amazonian flora.

After dinner, enjoy a guided night walk, offering the chance to encounter nocturnal animals and insects. Approximately 50% of the wildlife in the rainforest is nocturnal, making this an excellent opportunity to experience the jungle after dark.

Overnight at the selected lodge.

Included: Lunch and dinner.

Amazon Rainforest Exploration & Sandoval Lake Experience

You will board a boat to reach the trailhead where the morning walk and exploration begin. Afterward, enjoy a canoe excursion on Sandoval Lake for guests staying at Corto Maltes Amazonía, Hacienda Concepción, or Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica.

Guests staying at Posada Amazonas will visit Tres Chimbadas Lake.

The lake excursion is done in hand-paddled canoes, offering a peaceful experience in areas rich in birdlife and aquatic wildlife. After the lake visit, return to the lodge in time for lunch.

During the afternoon, there is time to explore the forest surrounding the lodge, observing local flora and fauna.

At dusk, accompanied by the guide, you will search for caimans and other nocturnal animals during a motorized canoe ride along the Tambopata River.

Overnight at the selected lodge.
Included: Lunch and dinner

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Lima. Reception, transfer, and accommodation in Lima.

At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport for departure to the planned destination.

Price per person in Dollars for regular services shared in groups (Guides in English or Spanish)
HOTELS DOUBLE ROOM
Tourist Hotels $1865
Superior Tourist Hotels $2110
First Class Hotels $2340
Superior First Class Hotels $2620
Luxury Hotels $3255
Airline tickets required for this tour
DESTINATION SCHEDULES
Lima-Arequipa Departs 16:00 Arrives 17:30
Cusco-Puerto Maldonado Departs 11:55 Arrives 12:55
Puerto Maldonado-Lima Departs 12:45 Arrives 14:15
PRICE EQUIPAJE
$300 Full Fare - Checked Baggage 23K

See more Tours:


Desde/From $1865 per person
Form-tours- INGLES (#9)

CLUB DE VACACIONES S.A.C.

Travel agency and tour operator with 30 years of experience with RUC No. 20102006365.

tripadvisor-certificato-club-de-vacaciones-

Contact:

Address:

Luis Felipe Villarán 320, San Isidro, Lima – Perú

+51 949 866 993

+51 959 740 843

Email: clubvac@clubdevacacionesperu.com

© Copyright 2026
All rights reserved

Share

Peru Archaeological & Amazon Route | 15-Day Tour

Peru Archaeological & Amazon Route | 15-Day Tour

Start from Desde/From $1865

    Seraphinite AcceleratorOptimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
    Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.