Andean Overland Journey

Travel to the heart of Peru

19 days

LIMA | PARACAS | NASCA / AREQUIPA | COLCA | PUNO | CUSCO | SACRED VALLEY | MACHU PICCHU

Enjoy an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes—an immersive 16-day adventure that weaves together culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the cosmopolitan buzz of Lima to the windswept coast of Paracas and the mysterious Nazca Lines, you’ll trace Peru’s rich tapestry of civilizations, both ancient and modern. As you ascend into the Andes, explore the colonial charm of Arequipa and the dramatic depths of the Colca Canyon before discovering the highland cultures of Lake Titicaca. The journey culminates in the Sacred Valley and the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca Empire. This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers not only a chance to see Peru’s most iconic landmarks, but to connect with its people, its traditions, and its soul. Let the Andean Overland Journey be your window into the vibrant heart of Peru.

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Highlights:

  • NJourney from the Pacific coast to the high Andes, experiencing Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
  • NFly over the mysterious Nazca Lines—ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert over 1,500 years ago.
  • NCruise to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and explore the dramatic desert-meets-ocean scenery of Paracas National Reserve.
  • NDiscover Andean culture in Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, home to soaring condors and sweeping mountain views.
  • #Stay with a host family on a remote Lake Titicaca island and take part in timeless local traditions.
  • NExplore Cusco and the Sacred Valley, connecting with vibrant communities and Inca history.
  • NRide the train to Machu Picchu for a guided visit to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

Starting at: 

$3460

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Peru!

Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima (154m|505ft), you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in the district of Miraflores. Enjoy free time to rest and begin acclimatizing at your own pace.
Overnight in Lima

Day 2: City Tour Lima – Heritage Highlights (B)

Begin your day with a curated tour showcasing Lima’s fascinating layers of history. The tour starts in Miraflores, with a brief stop to observe the pre-Inca Huaca Pucllana archaeological site (external view). From there, we head to the city’s historic center to visit La Casa del Oidor, a mid-16th-century colonial residence where you’ll taste various intensities of Peruvian cacao.

We’ll continue to the Convent of Santo Domingo, a stunning example of colonial religious architecture, where you may choose to climb the bell tower for panoramic views. The tour concludes at the Plaza de Armas with a chance to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard at the Government Palace (subject to official schedule).
Group size: maximum 10 participants
Overnight in Lima

Day 3: Coastal Desert Journey to Paracas (B)

Travel south by bus along the coastal desert for approximately 3.5 hours to reach Paracas. This scenic drive hugs the Pacific Ocean and offers striking desert vistas. In the afternoon, you’ll explore the California Desert near the Paracas Reserve on an exhilarating dune buggy ride. Feel the thrill of the shifting sands and admire the surreal landscape where desert meets sea. Sandboarding is also available, and suitable for all ages.
Overnight in Paracas

Day 4: Ballestas Islands & Paracas National Reserve (B)

From the Paracas pier, board a motorboat to the Ballestas Islands—known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos.” These rocky outcrops are home to sea lions, Humboldt penguins, blue-footed boobies, and thousands of seabirds. On the way, you’ll see the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph etched into the hillside.

Later, venture into the Paracas National Reserve, Peru’s only marine protected area, where over 215 bird species thrive thanks to the nutrient-rich Humboldt Current. Begin with a visit to the Reserve’s Interpretation Center for an introduction to local ecology before exploring the dramatic landscapes.

In the evening, travel by bus to Nazca, a journey of around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Overnight in Nazca

Day 5: Overflight Nazca Lines & Visit to Cahuachi (B)

Start your day with an unforgettable overflight from María Reiche Neuman Airport. From the sky, witness the famous Nazca Lines—massive geoglyphs carved into the desert, visible only from above. The 30–35-minute flight reveals iconic figures such as the Hummingbird, Monkey, Astronaut, Spider, and Condor, each telling a mysterious story of a long-lost culture.

In the afternoon, visit the archaeological site of Cahuachi, the ceremonial capital of the Nazca civilization. A short drive through the desert leads you to this monumental adobe complex, where you may spot the Huerequeque bird among the native Huarango trees.

At night, board the overnight bus to Arequipa. The journey lasts around 9 hours, crossing vast desert terrain before ascending into the Andean highlands at (2,328m|7,638ft).
Overnight on the bus

Day 6: Arequipa – Colonial Charm & Local Markets (B)

Arrive in Arequipa and begin your city exploration with a visit to San Camilo Market, a vibrant local hub declared a historic monument. Then, walk through the city’s stunning Plaza de Armas and admire the Church of the Society of Jesus, famous for its elaborate Baroque façade and the beautifully painted dome of San Ignacio.

Continue to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a city within a city. As your guide leads you through its peaceful courtyards and painted halls, you’ll discover over 300 years of cloistered life and religious devotion.
Overnight in Arequipa

Day 7: Colca Canyon Expedition (B)

Set off on a two-day adventure to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. As you travel through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, keep your eyes peeled for wild vicuñas grazing on the altiplano. Descend into the Colca Valley, a land of terraced fields, ancient Andean traditions, and breathtaking scenery.

Marvel at the dramatic landscapes and prepare for the possibility of spotting the majestic Andean condor gliding over the canyon walls.
Overnight in Colca

Day 8: Colca Canyon – Journey to Puno (B)

After lunch, depart for Puno (3,810m |12,500ft) by tourist bus. Along the way, enjoy stops at highland landmarks including the Patapampa Pass (4,910m|16,109ft), with views of distant volcanoes, and the serene Lagunillas Lagoon, often graced by pink flamingos.
Overnight in Puno

Day 9: Lake Titicaca – Uros & Amantaní (B/L/D)

Begin your Lake Titicaca exploration with a boat ride across its vast, shimmering waters. Visit the Uros floating islands, crafted entirely from totora reeds by one of the oldest known communities in the Americas. Despite modern changes, the Uros people have preserved their unique way of life and building techniques.

Continue to Amantaní Island, where you’ll be welcomed by your host family. After being shown to your accommodation, enjoy the peaceful rhythms of island life.
Overnight in Amantaní (homestay)

Day 10: Taquile Island & Return to Puno (B/L)

Rise early to watch the sunrise or assist with collecting fishing nets (optional). After breakfast, depart Amantaní and sail to Taquile Island. On arrival, hike gently up to the main plaza where you’ll learn about Taquile’s renowned textile traditions—especially the intricate work of the island’s male knitters.

Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before descending via a scenic trail to the dock. Return to Puno by boat in the afternoon.
Overnight in Puno

Day 11: Puno to Cusco – Altiplano Discovery (B/L)

Travel from Puno to Cusco on a scenic tourist bus with onboard service. The eight-hour journey is enriched by cultural stops, including the Pukara Museum, the high mountain pass of La Raya (4,335m|14,222ft), the Inca site of Raqchi, and the fresco-adorned Church of Andahuaylillas, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes.”
Overnight in Cusco

Day 12: Cusco City Tour – Inca & Colonial Treasures (B)

Explore Cusco’s surrounding archaeological sites, starting with the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, followed by visits to Puca Pucara, Tambomachay, and Q’enko. Back in the city, enter the Cathedral of Cusco, a masterpiece of colonial art, and finish at the Qoricancha, the once-glorious Inca Temple of the Sun, later transformed into a Dominican convent.
Overnight in Cusco

Day 13: Immersive Experience in Patabamba Community (B/L)

Today, journey into the Sacred Valley to the traditional community of Patabamba (3,885m|12,746ft), where villagers have preserved the ancient art of textile weaving. Along the way, enjoy views of potato and quinoa fields and stop at a natural lookout over the valley.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with flowers and dressed in traditional attire. Local women will guide you through the ancestral dyeing and weaving process, using plants collected from the surrounding hills. Join them in preparing a Pachamanca—an earth oven feast—before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.
Overnight in Cusco

Day 14: Full-Day Excursion to Machu Picchu (B)

Leave early in the morning for your journey to Machu Picchu. Depending on logistics, you’ll either take the train from Poroy (3.5 hours) or transfer to Ollantaytambo by car (1.5 hours) and then take a 1.5-hour train ride to Aguas Calientes.

From there, a short bus ride brings you to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Perched between two Andean peaks, this majestic citadel is one of the greatest architectural and cultural achievements of pre-Columbian America. A guided tour (2.5–3 hours) will reveal the mystery and genius of the site before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch and catching the train back to Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco

Day 15: Free Day in Cusco (B)

We never forget the importance of having free time during your trip, and Cusco is an incredible city to walk around, rest and regain your strength or learn something new.

Overnight in Cusco

Day 16: Cusco to Amazon Jungle (B/BL/D)

Take a domestic flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival at Puerto Maldonado airport, you will be met by a guide from the hotel and head to the office where we will do the guest check-in and go through the recommended packing list.
Overnight at the lodge

Day 17: Day 17: Amazon Jungle (B/L/D)

Very early we will travel by boat for 10 minutes to the clay lick La Torre.
We will plant endangered tree species, such as the ungurahui and the shihuahuaco, among others. This is an activity in which we will come into direct contact with the earth, which is why it is highly recommended for children, as it will awaken their sensitivity to nature.

Boat ride and nocturnal wildlife viewing. At sunset we will take a boat ride on the Tambopata River to enjoy the sounds of the jungle at night. We will carry a reflector in the boat, as it is common to find caimans, capybaras or nightjars on the banks and meanders of the river.
Overnight at the lodge

Day 18: Amazon Jungle (B/L/D)

We will visit a community farm, where agriculture is practiced in a traditional way. Will learn about Amazon native fruits and spices, and these will be prepared as part of the lunch, so that we can discover their flavours.

We will travel for 15 minutes by boat and 40 minutes by trail until we arrive to Tres Chimbadas Lake. To enter the lake, we will pass through the Infierno community checkpoint, as they are the ones who guard and maintain the area using the income generated by ecotourism.

At the Tres Chimbadas lake, we will board a catamaran. Following the route indicated by the guide, we will be able to appreciate fauna, lake vegetation and some reptiles and mammals, especially the much sought-after giant otters, as there is a family of several specimens that can often be seen in the area. Demonstration fishing, which consists of catching piranhas to observe them and then releasing them
Overnight at the lodge

Day 19: Farewell Peru (B)

Today you’ll take your domestic flight from Puerto Maldonado to Lima in time to connect with your international departure. We hope this journey has brought you closer to the heart of Peru.

B: Breakfast– L: Lunch – BL: Box Lunch - D: Dinner

Where is your trip?

Hotels (*)

Tourist Category

    • Lima: Arawi Express
    • Paracas: San Agustín Paracas
    • Nasca: Casa Andina Standard
    • Arequipa: San Agustín Posada
    • Colca: Casa de Mamayacchi
    • Puno: Hacienda Plaza de Armas
    • Cusco: Moaf
    • Puerto Maldonado: Inotawa

     

    Comfort Category

    • Lima: Antigua Casona
    • Paracas: San Agustín Paracas

    • Nasca: Casa Andina Standard (Hab. Superior)

    • Arequipa: Katari Plaza

    • Colca: Colca Lodge

    • Puno: Sonesta Posadas del Inca

    • Cusco: Costa del Sol Ramada

    • Puerto Maldonado: Hacienda Concepción

    (*) Or similar in each category

    Know before you book

    Included

    • Accommodation in selected hotels or similar, based on double rooms with breakfast.

    • All transfers in and from airports or bus stations in private service.

    • Meals as specified in the itinerary.

    • All excursions in shared services except:Paracas National Reserve, Cahuachi Pyramids, City Tour Arequipa, Full Day Machu Picchu (private tours).

    • Shared groups of max. 12 participants, unless specified.

    • Ground transport in shared or private tourist buses as indicated.

    • Entrance fees to all archaeological sites, monuments, national parks, and museums listed (unless otherwise noted)

    • Train Expedition or Upgrade to Vistadome to and from Machu Picchu.

    • Professional local guides (private or as specified).

    • Ongoing assistance by phone and coordination from our Lima office and local partners.

    • 24-hour emergency contact number.

    Not Included

    • Local or international Flights
    • Tips
    • Travel insurance
    • Anything not explicitly mentioned in the program