Ruins of the cloud city of Machu Picchu, Peru

Best of Peru Tour in Two Weeks

Ratings of Zicasso's Service
Customizable Itinerary

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Countries Visited

Peru

Places Visited

Lima, Paracas/Ica, Cusco, Sacred Valley...

See all

Suggested Duration

14 Days

Once regarded as the “navel of the world,” Peru captivates international attention for its rich history and diverse natural beauty. Each year, millions of tourists summit the rugged Andes mountains to reach Machu Picchu, which is the pinnacle of Incan innovation. Yet, a true adventure to the birthplace of the Inca Empire extends beyond the limits of this world wonder. Experience the best of Peru as you sample authentic ceviche along the breezy coastline, trek through the secluded jungles of the...

Customizable Itinerary

Expand All

Trip Highlights

  • Bask in the sun-kissed fields of the Sacred Valley while you tour ancient fortresses and resort-like hideaways of the Inca Empire
  • Explore the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and discover the fascinating culture of the Uros people who have called the islands home for centuries
  • Stroll along the cobblestone streets of post-colonial Cusco as you marvel at the electric hues of traditional Quechua clothing
  • Zipline through the lush jungles of the Amazonian canopy and get an up-close look at the abundant varieties of plant and animal life
  • Journey to the famed ruins of Machu Picchu alongside your expert guide and uncover the site’s storied legacy
  • Speed down the sand dunes of Ica’s desert oasis in a four-wheel dune buggy, then depart the shores of Paracas for a rare glimpse at indigenous birds and mammals
  • Learn about the ancient Andean practices of natural yarn dyeing and textile weaving in Chinchero during a guided demonstration and culture class
  • Indulge in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes and tour the charming city at the base of Machu Picchu

Detailed Description

From sandy beaches to grassy plains and rugged mountain peaks to dense rainforests, Peru’s terrain is among the most diverse in the world. For centuries, the region’s Inca Empire set itself apart as the largest civilization in the pre-colonial Americas, which is best known for its political prowess, agricultural innovation, and engineering expertise. As many are now flocking to the region to admire its beauty, this trip will give you the opportunity to also study the rich history and the vibrant culture that is deeply woven into the fabric of modern-day Peru.

Touch down in Lima at the Jorge Chávez International Airport. Spend your first day in the nation’s capital where history intersects the hustle and bustle of this major metropolitan area. Stroll through the prestigious neighborhood of Miraflores and sample the traditional Peruvian ceviche that it is marinated in fresh lime juice while you look out on the sandy coastline. Buckle in the next day for a thrilling ride atop the sand dunes of Huacachina’s desert oasis. Then, travel to the world-renowned city of Cusco to learn about Incan influence in the city and observe how many of these traditions carry on today.

Wind through the green pastures and ancient Incan relics of the Sacred Valley. Attend a culture class in Chinchero to practice natural dyeing and weaving techniques. Come to the salt mines of Maras before boarding the scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. In the morning, follow your local guide on a tour of the ruins for a chance to learn more about their fascinating history.

After, venture to one of the most remote places in Peru: the Amazonian jungle. Mount a river raft to your beautiful lodge accommodation that is hidden deep inside the luscious foliage of Manú National Park. Listen carefully as your expert guide directs you to high-flying parrots and other indigenous wildlife. Whiz along the treetops as you zipline through the jungle’s canopy layer.

Return to Cusco as you acclimate back to the city life. In the morning, barter for jewelry, pottery, and Alpaca handicrafts as you stroll through outdoor marketplaces. Finally, step foot on the floating villages of Lake Titicaca and get to know the culture of the islands’ local inhabitants. Consider reading some of our travelers’ Peru tour reviews for more ideas to perfect your dream vacation.

Starting Price

$5,100 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations
  • In-country transportation
  • Some or all activities and tours
  • Expert trip planning
  • 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.86 stars based on 846 reviews.

Peru, Galapagos / Ecuador Vacation Review: Lima, Amazon,...
"We were so impressed with our Zicasso-recommended travel...

Reviewed By Debby F.

Galapagos / Ecuador, Peru: Machu Picchu, Cooking Class,...
"Zicasso’s travel partner and his company created an exciting,...

Reviewed By Kay M.

Peru Luxury Travel Review: Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puño,...
"We had an amazing trip to Peru! Everything was taken care...

Reviewed By Janine A.

Luxury Peru Tour Review: Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco,...
"Our Zicasso travel agent planned an interesting and varied...

Reviewed By Carol B.

Peru Vacation Review: Machu Picchu, Cusco, Local Culture,...
"Everything went without a hitch. Our agent's tour earned...

Reviewed By James M.

Peru Vacation Review: Lima, Paracas, Nasca, Ica, Sacred...
"Our family of four had a great trip to Peru! Zicasso’s...

Reviewed By Amie S.

Your Dream Vacation

in 3 simple steps

  1. 1

    Describe your dream trip

  2. 2

    Get matched with top travel specialists

  3. 3

    Book the trip

Free service - no credit card required