Peru Highlights Adventure: Lima, Huacachina, Amazon & Machu Picchu (10D/9N)

Day 01: Arrival Lima, Peru Trip Itinerary & Lima City Tour

Welcome to Lima, the lively capital city of Peru and starting point for your Peru trip. Your transfer to the accommodation in Miraflores or Barranco, two of the most beautiful Lima neighborhoods, will take place after you land at Jorge Chavez International Airport. On your very first day of the tour in Peru, you’ll be able to familiarize yourself with Peru on its coast by enjoying beautiful beaches, interesting neighborhoods, and top-notch cuisine.

After checking into the hotel and relaxing or exploring after your international flight, head out for an afternoon stroll along the Miraflores Malecon where you will be able to admire the views of the Pacific Ocean, the dramatic cliffs, and the beautiful parks. The artistic, colorful, and charming Barranco gives you another perspective of Lima and Cusco contrasts which you will come across on the following days during your trip in Peru.

For dinner, try some traditional Peruvian cuisine. As a culinary capital of South America, Peru will not disappoint your senses with various fresh and delicious dishes and the famous Peruvian cuisine becomes one of the highlights of this great Peru tour.

This day is light and easy to help you acclimatize after your flight and get ready for the upcoming adventure that includes a visit to such places as Machu Picchu and Amazon region among others.

• Destination: Lima
• Activities: Airport reception & transfer, leisure exploration
• Recommended: Light walking tour along the Malecon
• Accommodation: Lima

Day 02: Flight to Puerto Maldonado – Peru Jungle Experience

Today you leave the coastal area for the unique jungle rainforest which is one of the most biodiverse environments in the world. Your journey starts with an early morning flight from Lima to Cusco connections followed by further flying to deeper areas of Peruvian Amazon. The change in landscapes from urban environment to greenery is just the beginning of your experience with Jungle.

On arrival, you have a small briefing and travel on a motorized boat down the Amazon river. It is not just a transfer but your first acquaintance with the peruvian amazon where the first encounters with wildlife can happen at once. The birds, river bank reptiles and vegetation are defining elements of the scenery.

Arrival at the lodge allows you to dive into the life of the rainforest. Immersion into the nature surrounded with rainforest takes place here without any loss of comfort. Lunchtime is followed by an easy kayak excursion and visit to the Monkey Island where a number of different species live in this protected zone. During this part of the day you have a chance to learn about the rhythm of life in the rainforest and uniqueness of traveling to the Peruvian Amazon.

At night time the sounds of the forest become prominent. Dinner is served in a natural environment after which you stay overnight in private bungalows. This day is the first real step in the combination of Machu Picchu and Amazon adventure – the unique opportunity to see two ecosystems in a detailed itinerary.

• Flight route: Lima to Cusco connection & rainforest gateway
• Ecosystem: Amazon rainforest
• River navigation: Boat ride along the Amazon river
• Wildlife potential: Birds, caimans, monkeys
• Activities: Boat ride, kayaking, nature excursion
• Overnight: Amazon lodge

Day 03: Amazon Jungle Exploration – The Sandoval Lake Adventure

Following breakfast, the day will commence with an exciting ride on a boat to Lake Sandoval, one of the most crucial conservation areas in the region. The thrill of discovering the Amazon is heightened further as one steps out and embarks on a walking journey through the dense jungle paths.

Lake Sandoval itself presents extraordinary wildlife opportunities. Giant river otters, black caimans, exotic birds, and countless species inhabit this serene environment. Every movement across the water reveals the delicate balance of life within the rainforest. This is a defining moment of traveling deep into the Peruvian Amazon, where nature remains largely untouched.

Later, you will ascend to an elevated observation platform built around a giant Shihuahuaco tree. From this vantage point, panoramic views of the lush jungle canopy stretch in every direction, offering a perspective few travelers experience. The afternoon allows flexible activities including swimming, fishing, or zipline exploration.By nightfall, the rainforest transforms once again.

A guided night walk reveals nocturnal species rarely seen during daylight hours. This day represents the essence of the Machu Picchu and Amazon combination showcasing the raw biodiversity that defines the best of Peru.

• Hiking Time: Approx. 2 hours each way
• Ecosystem: Amazon Rainforest Wetlands
• Major Species Encountered: River Otters, Birds, Reptiles
• Highlights of Activity: Boat Trip, Hike, Canopy View
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate
• Overnight Stay: Amazon Lodge

Day 04: Jungle Exploration – Lost Cocha Perdida

In the morning, we’ll take a walk through a forest path to Cocha Perdida (Lost Qocha). This is an area that is relatively isolated and rarely visited, which features an excellent environmental condition and atmosphere of calmness. Our hike to Cocha Perdida takes about 2 hours of peaceful walking away from tourist paths and gives an opportunity to feel the beauty of the wilderness and to enjoy the sounds, smells, and touch of the untouched nature. Sometimes our guides use machetes to clear the path from the vegetation along the way, which helps to demonstrate how alive this area is.

During the trip to the Cocha, your guide will tell you about the peculiarities of the nature around us and will show you unique formations of the local flora and fauna and the balance that keeps all this alive. The hike is not meant to be rushed but allows us to notice many of the interesting details in our surroundings that are usually missed by those who are in too much of a hurry. Cocha Perdida offers a peaceful place that seems to be totally disconnected from the rest of the world – there is only calm water and greenery here.

After that, we’ll return to the lodge for a lunch. In the afternoon, there will be another hike to the rivers Briolo and Gamitana, where we’ll learn some local fishing techniques. At the end of our hiking program, we’ll have a ride in a canoe, which will allow us to return to our lodge in a calm and leisurely way, giving a chance to admire the natural beauty of this area and to enjoy the peace of the surroundings.

• Activity Time: Approximately 4 Hours in Total Walking Time
• Activity Level: Moderate
• Setting: Far Outdoors in Nature
• Activity Type: Guided Trip

Day 05: Travel to Cusco – Amazing City Tour

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the lodge and start heading home. The trip begins with the same beautiful river route used for arrival, giving a final chance to enjoy the serene environment. This marks the point where scenery changes from lowland areas to Andean highlands.

On arriving at the departure point, transfer to the airport is arranged for your flight to the mountains. The difference in geography is astounding – from warm and humid climate to fresh high altitude environment. The journey then starts from the cusco airport and ends at your hotel.

This afternoon is going to be a tour of one of the most historical locations in all of South America. This will be an interesting experience that is well-paced and allows the visitor to learn about the history and contrasts in the city. Ancient streets show an amazing combination of cultures, as colonial balconies and churches sit atop stone structures.

Among other highlights are beautiful stone structures, plazas with ceremonies, and walls showing engineering perfection. The guide will explain the significance of each place and describe how this capital used to function as the political and cultural center of inca empire. The knowledge obtained will give more understanding about the city planning and symbols of this civilization.

The tour goes on through colorful streets, local stores and houses showing the unique architecture of the city. This introduction will prepare you for the upcoming days and make them even more interesting.

• Duration of Flight: Approx. 1 hour
• Activity for the Afternoon: Heritage Exploration
• Altitude: High-elevation destination
• Type of Experience: Cultural and Historical

Day 06: Sacred Valley Highlights – Peru Day Tour Experience

Today the journey starts with early morning drive to the spectacular region known for its rich valleys, mountain views, and strong traditions. In addition to stunning landscapes, this part of Andes provides incredible archaeological heritage. That is why this tour is regarded as one of the most interesting in the area.

The first destination is Pisac, a picturesque village famous for its artisan traditions and unique terraces located on the mountain slope. Here, the tour includes visiting an interesting inca site, where visitors can see ceremonial buildings, terraced areas for cultivation, and scenic viewpoints. The surroundings are very picturesque since stone buildings create perfect harmony with nature.

Further on the route is Maras, a place that is famous for its peculiar geological formations. Here one can find unusual depressions formed by ancient peoples, which show the amazing engineering achievements and agricultural experiments.

Then follows another destination – the Maras Salt Mines, which are considered to be quite unusual for their spectacular white ponds of salt located at the slope of the mountain. Guides will talk about the tradition of their extraction, which is used throughout many generations.

During the day, the travelers will experience breathtaking landscapes, explanations concerning culture and traditions of local people, and plenty of photo opportunities. This trip can be easily combined with other excursions planned for the next days and serves as a great introduction to the sacred valley and Machu Picchu.

• Excursion Type: Full-day Experience
• Highlights: Pisac • Moray • Maras
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Landscape: Valleys & Mountain Views
• Overnight in a hotel in Urubamba.

Day 07: Inca Jungle Begin – Inca Jungle Biking & Rafting Experience

Starting with a short break in Ollantaytambo, the trip moves on via mountain road with picturesque Andean nature all around. Drive is an experience itself because you get changing landscape every single minute during your way through valleys, mountains covered with clouds and remote highlands. Finally, after about one hour, we arrive at Abra Malaga, the place of our descent.

Before start of biking, participants will go through a detailed safety instruction with professional guides. Safety equipment will be checked for comfort and safety. When everything is ready, the downhill cycling starts – exciting, but not too challenging activity for people of different skill level. Ride goes through a diversity of landscapes, showing interesting transition of environment. Along the way there will be small towns, fruit orchards, streams and other rare highland landscapes which you won’t see in standard paths.

The trip is aimed to provide both exciting adventure and sightseeing. Guides will regulate the speed, giving you a chance to stop, take pictures, drink some water and enjoy the views. Route finishes at Santa Maria, where there will be a nice lunch for you to relax.

After short pause, participants will continue their adventure with a fun rafting tour along the river. Professional guides will lead you through rapids, providing safety and adventure without any previous experience needed. Rafting is a good combination of fun and energy after a long bike ride.

Finally, by the end of the day participants will have great mix of activities, adventure and impressive landscape.

• Biking Time: Approx. 3 hours
• Distance: ~ 45km
• Rafting Time: Approx. 2 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate Adventure
• Type of Excursion: Day Inca Jungle

Day 08: Santa Teresa to Aguas Calientes – Jungle & Zipline Adventure

The day starts off with an adrenaline-pumping zipline adventure that promises to offer a combination of thrill and magnificent views. Following the breakfast session, individuals get ready for an amazing flight across deep canyons while gliding along cables installed high above the ground. Qualified instructors ensure that individuals are well guided through the whole process.

Participants will undertake several runs along the different zipline sections which allow them to have various views of the landscape. The feeling of speed and elevation mixed with beautiful views creates a wonderful sensation. This is an activity done under the supervision of professional instructors.

After the thrilling morning adventure, ground transport takes individuals to Hydroelectric for a lunch break. In the afternoon, participants take a walk toward Aguas Calientes through beautiful scenery in mountains with rivers sounds in the background. This journey is quite exciting and helps build up anticipation for the following day’s main attraction.

While moving toward the destination, tourists get occasional glimpses of the distant machu picchu which adds up to the excitement. In Aguas Calientes, individuals have dinner then rest for the following day.

• Zipline Adventure: Approx. 3 Hours
• Afternoon Walk: Approx. 4 Hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Dining: Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
• Accommodation: Local Hostel

Day 09: Machu Picchu Tour – Wonders of the World Experience

The day starts early, with one of the highlights of the whole journey, the visit to machu picchu. After having breakfast, the group heads off towards the entrance of this world famous archaeological sanctuary. Arrival at the place is an impressive sight of mists covering peaks and stone structures that have been created throughout centuries.

After entering, the tour continues under the guidance of a professional guide who gives detailed information about the history and architecture of this outstanding inca citadel. Travelers learn about the precision of the structures, ceremonial areas, farming terraces, and sacred sectors.

During the walking tour, the travelers explore remarkable structures, ceremonial squares, and masterfully built layout of the place. The walking tour is immersive yet allows travelers enough time to take pictures and observe the surrounding area.

The hiking up huayna picchu is an additional activity for the visitors interested in adventure. This hike provides magnificent views from the top of mountain peaks and creates contrast with the stone constructions below. The entry to machu picchu is organized in such a way that travelers do not face any difficulties.

This is an incredible opportunity to see and explore one of the most recognized historical places in the world.

• Main Activity: Guided Site Exploration
• Optional Activity: Huayna Picchu Climb
• Experience Type: Cultural & Historical Discovery
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Day 10: Final Day in Cusco – Completion of the Comprehensive Peru Tour Itinerary

As per your personal preferences, your last day will be entirely flexible. This will ensure that the entire travel itinerary ends on a light note. In case you are leaving on a particular day and time, the last day can also be spent in leisure activities.

This will allow you to enjoy some relaxing moments, reflect upon your experiences, take any photos if you wish to, and finally say goodbye to the city that you enjoyed spending time in.

Many tourists also tend to spend their last day in Cusco visiting coffee shops, artisan stores, and even revisiting places they visited previously. Your final transfer to the airport will conclude your travel experience in Peru. Upon reaching there, you will complete your tour with memorable experiences, wonderful sceneries, and unique experiences gained on the journey.

In case you would like to continue your trip, you can also enquire from us regarding any further tours you might be interested in.

• Activity Level: Leisure and Flexible
• Transfer: Airport Transfer Service Included

What is Included?

Transfers and Logistics

• Airport Transfers: Private pickup in Lima, Puerto Maldonado, and Cusco (Arrival & Departure).
• Ground Transportation: All private transfers for city tours and Sacred Valley excursions.
• River Transportation: Motorized boats for Amazon Lodge transfers and river expeditions.
• Train Tickets: Expedition or Voyager service from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

Professional Staff

• Expert Guides: Certified bilingual (English/Spanish) naturalist guides specialized in Amazonian and Andean history.
• Adventure Team: Professional instructors for mountain biking, rafting, and ziplining with full safety briefings.
• Chef & Crew: Specialized cooks in the Amazon lodge and support staff during the expedition.

Accommodations & Meals

• Lodging: 01 night in Lima, 03 nights in an Amazon jungle lodge, 03 nights in Cusco/Sacred Valley (hotel), 01 night in Santa Maria (local house/lodge), and 01 night in Aguas Calientes (hotel/hostel).
• Meals: Full board in the Amazon (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and specific meals mentioned in the itinerary (daily breakfasts + specific lunches during tours).

Activities & Entrances

• Machu Picchu: Official entrance ticket and guided tour.
• Archaeological Sites: Entry fees for Pisac, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Cusco City Tour sites.
• Amazon Tours: Guided visits to Sandoval Lake, Monkey Island, and Cocha Perdida.
• Adventure Gear: High-quality mountain bikes, helmets, body armor, rafting gear, and zipline equipment.

What is not included?

Flights & Taxes

• Domestic Flights: Tickets for Lima – Puerto Maldonado, Puerto Maldonado – Cusco, or Cusco – Lima (available upon request).
• International Flights: To and from your country of origin.

Personal Expenses

• Insurance: Personal travel and medical insurance
• Extra Meals: Dinners in Lima, Cusco, and Aguas Calientes, and the final lunch after the Machu Picchu tour.
• Beverages: Soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks at the lodges and hotels.

Optional Extras

• Laundry & Calls: Any personal services not specified in the itinerary
• Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain: Extra permits (must be booked months in advance).

ESSENTIAL PERU PACKING LIST

THE ABSOLUTE MUST-HAVES

• Original Passport: Required for every flight, train, and the Machu Picchu entrance.
• Physical Cash (Soles): Essential for remote areas (Amazon/Valle) where cards aren’t accepted.
• Small Daypack (20L-30L): Your main bag for daily tours and the Machu Picchu train.

AMAZON JUNGLE (Hot & Humid)

• Long-sleeved shirts & long pants: Light colors and breathable fabric (to prevent mosquito bites).
• High socks: To wear with the rubber boots provided by the lodge.
• Insect Repellent: Minimum 30% DEET.
• Swimwear & Sandals: For kayaking, rafting, and hot springs.

ANDES & MACHU PICCHU (Cold & Changeable)

• The Layering Trio: 1. Thermal shirt, 2. Fleece/Sweater, 3. Down jacket (puffer).
• Rain Poncho: Mandatory. Weather changes in minutes.
• Cold Weather Gear: Beanie, gloves, and scarf (essential for the mountain biking descent).
• Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen and lip balm (the Andean sun is extremely strong).

FOOTWEAR

• Hiking boots must be waterproof and already broken-in (do not bring brand-new boots).
• Sneakers: For city tours and relaxing at the lodge.

ELECTRONICS

• Power Bank: Charging is limited in the jungle lodges.
• Universal Adapter: Type A & B (Flat pins, 220V).

CRITICAL LUGGAGE RULE: Trains to Machu Picchu only allow one small bag (max. 8kg/17lbs). You must leave your large suitcase at your hotel in Cusco and only bring the essentials for the final days of the trip.

Tour Booking Details – The Ultimate Peru Experience (10D/9N)

Thank you for choosing our Cusco to Machu Picchu and the Amazon Jungle – The Ultimate Peru Experience (10D/9N), a specially planned travel program encompassing cultural heritage, scenic beauty and natural experience in two most unique destinations of this country. Our program is carefully arranged to make a harmonious combination of history, scenic beauty, comfort and soft adventures in highlands and lowlands.

As a licensed and professional local tour operator, we are ready to provide reliable and comfortable transportation and service organization. The transportation, tickets for the entrances and guide service are precisely organized to provide comfort and safety during your trip.

How to Book Your Experience

Booking of your travel program is an easy process that will help you to get a professionally and precisely prepared travel program. In order to start your booking procedure with us, please fill in the passenger information provided below. This information is necessary to provide entrance tickets, transportation and train services. The information should be identical with your traveler’s passport data.

Required Passenger Information

To provide precise booking and service organization, please provide us the following information for each traveler:

• Full name (exactly as appears in your passport)
• Passport number
• Nationality
• Date of birth

It is very important to fill in correct information. Incorrect information can cause you penalties, additional expenses or access problems to controlled areas.

Accommodation & Travel Coordination

To ensure smooth logistics, we need to know your accommodation before your arrival and after the end of the program if needed. The information provided helps to coordinate timely pick-ups, transfers, and assistance. It is especially true in case of a rail connection when time management and coordination should be taken into account at the train station.

Food & Dietary Preferences

Your well-being is our concern. If you have any food preferences or allergies (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.) let us know in advance. We will do our best to take care of your needs during included meals.

Secure Payment & Program Services Confirmation

The payment on our website is fully safe and secured. To confirm your booking, kindly pay via the following link:
[SECURE PAYMENT LINK]
After your payment was made, we start organizing all services which are involved in your program, such as:

• Entrance tickets to attractions scheduled by the itinerary
• Rail tickets and transfers
• Guided tours
• Transfers and logistics

Please bear in mind that some services are limited and could not be guaranteed (rail timetables and entrance circuits).

Confirmation & Travel Assistance

Following confirmation, an email containing schedules, preparation information, useful travel advice, and recommendations will be sent to you. Our support team will be there to help you both prior to and throughout your trip to ensure clear communications. We are happy to welcome you to the imperial city of Cusco and guide you through an unforgettable travel experience that includes comfortable exploration.

What kind of travel experience is offered through this tour?

The described program is a travel experience for those who want to combine historical landmarks, spectacular views, and active nature activities in different regions. Travelers will have the opportunity to visit ancient cities, go to the world-famous archaeological site, as well as stay in the remote lowland area famous for its amazing diversity. The travel experience combines guided tours, soft adventures, and some leisure time.

Is advance booking required?

Yes, advance booking is highly recommended. There are many services in the described travel program that provide controlled availability of the tickets and timetables. It means that only advanced booking allows for the proper organization of logistics and fixing travel dates.

Is the tour physically challenging?

This tour is relatively moderate in terms of physical effort required. Activities involve walking, light trekking, as well as adventures in some cases. The participants do not need special skills and will have enough time to rest during the day. It is recommended that visitors are in good health and ready to participate in the physically active events.

Do I need any experience in trekking?

There is no need to have any experience in trekking before joining this tour. The activities offered will be easy for visitors who have no special experience and knowledge related to trekking.

What kind of accommodation will I have?

Various kinds of accommodation are used, depending on the place of visiting. During different stages of the tour, participants might live in urban, eco-lodge, and other accommodations. Prior to the highland stage of the program, travelers will have their nights in the hotel in Cusco.

What meals are included in the tour?

Included meals vary from day to day and are aimed at ensuring visitors will have enough energy to perform all the activities. The menu contains dishes made of local and well-known products. The needs of vegetarians can be taken into account in advance.

Is the tour safe?

Absolutely. Professional guides and service providers run this program. There are safety measures for transport and various activities, and guides will be ready to help their clients all the way through. Just like any other tour, following instructions from the guides and applying common travel precautions is mandatory.

Is it possible to modify some aspects of the tour?

In most cases, yes. Optional upgrades or changes in accommodation and activities are usually available but depend on your dates and the availability. It is always advisable to mention your requests when booking the tour to evaluate the possibility of making changes.

What will happen if I want to change my travel dates?

Depends on whether you have made any reservations and tickets already. Some services follow very strict regulations and there might be certain difficulties with changing dates. Contacting the tour operator as soon as possible is always helpful.

Are there any age limitations for joining the tour?

No. In most cases this trip is suitable for travelers of any age in good health condition. Participants will have to take into account their physical fitness and their ability to handle active days of traveling. Travelers with children are recommended to familiarize themselves with the activities first.

What if I do not want to travel with a big group?

This is another good reason to choose a private departure and enjoy more freedom in choosing travel dates and pace of the tour. Private departures might be available depending on the dates of your travel.

What should I bring with me?

Packing list normally consists of comfortable walking shoes, light clothes, sun protection products, insect repellents and other necessary items. A detailed packing list is provided to every traveler after the booking process.