Discover Peru 16 Day Peru Tour
From coast to clouds, our complete and comprehensive 16-day Peru Tour unveils Peru’s amazing ocean gems, Amazon secrets, and Inca sky cities. Whether you are planning to do a solo, life-changing excursion or traveling with your family for the first time, we will give you an unforgettable experience that will create lasting memories and enrich your life in ways you never imagined.
Embark on a 16-day journey through Peru and experience its stunning scenery—from the towering Andes to the sun-kissed coastlines. Explore the big city of Lima and the wonders of Machu Picchu to solve ancient riddles, Colca Canyon to whisper with condors, and the Amazon to lose itself in its vibrant heart.
At Eco Andes Trekking, our goal is to share a enriching journey with you. If you are ready to explore the wonders of Peru, appreciate its ancient landscapes, and immerse in its beauty and culture, this 16-day Peru Tour is perfect for you. Join us as we discover Peru!
Overview:
Day 1: Lima, the Gastronomical Capital of the Americas
Day 2: From the Big City to the White City
Day 3: Arequipa City Tour
Day 4: Arequipa and the Colca Canyon’s Majestic Depths
Day 5: Colca Valley—From Cross of the Condor to Puno’s Folkloric Capital
Day 6: Uros Floating Island and Homestay
Day 7: Taquile Island and Puno
Day 8: Chasing the Inca Sun: From Puno’s Shores to Cusco’s Golden City
Day 9: Explore the Mystic Heart of Cusco on a Cultural Adventure
Day 10: Unveiling Chinchero’s Charm, Moray’s Magic, and Ollantaytambo’s Spirit!
Day 11: Inca’s Lost City & Andean Retreat
Day 12: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Day 13: Arrival in Puerto Maldonado
Day 14: Explore the Forest Trails & Wetland Secrets
Day 15: Hike to Tapir Lake, Sachavacayoc’s Hidden Gem
Day 16: Farewell, Peru!
Day 1: Lima, the Gastronomical Capital of the Americas
Welcome to Lima! Lima ranks as South America’s fifth-largest metropolis and Peru’s biggest city. This vibrant city is a captivating mix of history and modern energy. Dubbed the Gastronomical Capital of the Americas, Lima is a melting pot of Spanish, Andean, and Asian cultures. Start your day by exploring historical churches and the fascinating underground catacombs. Remember to visit the iconic Bridge of Sighs and savor some delicious ceviche, a Peruvian seafood dish. Finally, end your day by watching the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean, perhaps with a refreshing pisco sour in hand. So, don’t wait any longer. Lima is waiting for you with a trip you will never forget.
- Meals: None
- Accommodations: Tierra Viva Centro Miraflores
- Lima altitude: 154 m/505 ft.
- Approximate walking time: 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 2: From the Big City to the White City
After exploring Peru’s most populated and significant city, turn your attention to Arequipa. Arequipa earned the moniker “The White City” due to its stunning architecture crafted from the radiant sillar, a unique white volcanic stone. Once you arrive at Arequipa Airport and transfer to your hotel, you’ll be greeted with beautiful landscapes and its people. You’ll have some free time to roam around during lunch to adjust to the altitude. If you have any last-minute queries regarding the days ahead in Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, our guide will be available to answer you in the evening.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodations: Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
- Maximum altitude: 2,335 m/7,660 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 154 m/505 ft.
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 3: Arequipa City Tour
At 10:00, experience a captivating tour through the Historic Centre of Arequipa, a designated World Cultural Heritage Site, explore the iconic Plaza de Armas, and marvel at the intricate details of the cathedral. From there, you can explore the Monastery of Santa Catalina, followed by a comfortable transfer to your chosen hotel for a delightful stay in the captivating city of Arequipa.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodations: Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
- Arequipa altitude: 2,335 m/7,660 ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 4: Discovering Peru’s Hidden Gem: Arequipa and the Colca Canyon’s Majestic Depths
In the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca, we will travel through Yura – Pampa Cañahuas and La Pulpera on our way to the highlands, where we have a good chance of seeing herds of wild vicuñas and fighting cattle.
The Colca Valley is a breathtaking region characterized by terraced landscapes and towering, snow-capped mountains; the road there reaches an elevation of 13,000 feet before descending into the valley. The Colca River makes its way down the base of the deepest canyon on Earth, with a depth of 10,000 feet.
From there, we’ll visit the petroglyphs at the Caves of Mollepunco and the naturally occurring hill formations in Callalli that resemble magical castles as you travel along the route.
By 1 pm, you’ll arrive in Chivay and head to the charming hotel you’ve chosen. Feel free to stop at the hot springs near the hotel to complete your exciting day.
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Accommodations: Colca Lodge Hotel
- Maximum altitude: 3,635 m/11,926 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 2,680 m/8,792 ft
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 5: Colca Valley—From Cross of the Condor to Puno’s Folkloric Capital
Start your morning with a drive to the cross of the Condor lookout, dubbed as one of the best views over the canyon and home to the famous Andean condors.
Your drive to Puno, which begins after lunch in Chivay and takes around 5 to 6 hours by car from Colca Canyon, will be filled with breathtaking sceneries. If you need to adjust more before arriving in Puno, it’s best to take it easy because the altitude is higher than in Arequipa. As you unwind, enjoy the views of serene Lake Titicaca from the Puno Hotel’s waterfront location.
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Accommodations: Casa Andina Premium Puno
- Maximum altitude: 3,826 m/12,549 feet.
- Minimum altitude: 3,650 m/11,975 feet.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 6: Unwind and Connect: Uros Floating Island and Homestay
You’ll be greeted with a delicious breakfast to start your day. Then, around 7:30 and 8 in the morning, your guide will bring you to the port to board a boat to the island of Uros, also known as the floating city. Once there, you’ll have plenty of time to explore its scenery and resources.
The Uros Islands are situated in a remote section of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Here, Uros subsists on the modest totora plant, which grows profusion on the lake and is harvested from extensive beds.
The next stop is Amantani Island, where a local family will host you after a boat journey. After all, staying with a welcoming family tonight will make even the humblest lodging an unforgettable experience. Afterward, you’ll join the people for a sunset celebration at the Temple of Pachatata, which requires a mountain climb.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodations: Homestay
- Maximum altitude: 3,950 m/12,959 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 3,826 m/12,549 feet.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 7: Taquile and Puno
Start your day with a delightful breakfast alongside your host family before embarking on a scenic boat ride to the vibrant island of Taquile. Taquile is famous for its intricate and rich textile and weaving traditions and its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Explore the island at your leisure and savor a delectable lunch on the island.
After a day of exploration, you’ll return to Puno by 3:30 pm. Take this opportunity to unwind and enjoy a leisurely evening in Puno before embarking on your journey to Cusco the following day.
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Accommodations: Casa Andina Premium Puno
- Maximum altitude: 3,950 m/12,959 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 3,826 m/12,549 feet.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 8: Chasing the Inca Sun: From Puno’s Shores to Cusco’s Golden City
After we pick you up from your hotel, get ready to enjoy a morning bus ride to Cusco, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit various attractions. Lunch will also be provided as part of your trip from Puno to Cusco.
When you arrive in Cusco, our agent will greet you at the bus station and take you to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Accommodations: Costa del Sol Hotel
- Maximum altitude: 3,826 m/12,549 feet.
- Minimum altitude: 3,400 m/11,154 ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 9: Explore the Mystic Heart of Cusco on a Cultural Adventure
Our first stop for our Cusco tour is the impressive Sacsayhuaman site, where historic Inca rituals like Inti Raymi and Warachikuy are reenacted after having been the site of violent conflicts in the past.
After immersing yourself in history, explore the Qenqo temple, built entirely out of a massive monolith. The rock-cut temple stretches across a mountainside and combines natural chambers with artificial passageways.
The last stop is at Tambo Machay, an Inca water temple located 3,700 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level. The terraced rocks are cut by a network of waterways, including aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls. The site’s exact purpose is unknown; it might have been a spa for the Incan aristocracy, a military stronghold protecting Cusco’s approaches, or maybe both.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodations: Costa del sol Cusco
- Maximum altitude: 3,700 m/12,139 ft
- Minimum altitude: 3,400 m/11,154 ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 10: Cusco’s Hidden Path: Unveiling Chinchero’s Charm, Moray’s Magic, and Ollantaytambo’s Spirit!
Set out on an unforgettable adventure as you discover the Sacred Valley’s marvels. Immerse yourself in the vivid customs and ancient stonework of Chinchero as you experience its living history.
Up next is the remarkable circular Moray ruins. The mysterious ruins, considered an Inca agricultural experiment, are a sight to behold. Some people think it was a spaceport for extraterrestrial craft; we’ll leave that decision up to you.
They say you can only visit Moray by visiting the Maras Salt Mines, an engineering marvel of terraced salt ponds set against the mountainside with mineral-rich water pouring downhill as if time itself were not an issue. Then, continue your journey to the great Ollantaytambo citadel, with its ancient remains and breathtaking vistas of the Sacred Valley, a must-see on any traveler’s itinerary.
By the afternoon, you will be transported to your cozy Ollantaytambo hotel to rest after a long day of exploring.
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Accommodations: El Albergue Ollantaytambo
- Maximum altitude: 3,700 m/12,139 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 2,792 m/9,160 ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 11: Inca’s Lost City & Andean Retreat
From Ollantaytambo, take a magnificent Vistadome train ride to Aguas Calientes, the starting point for our trek to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s new seven wonders.
An unforgettable journey awaits you at the gates of Machu Picchu. Discover the secrets of the Incan citadel’s architecture as you follow an expert guide through its essential features.
Following the tour, you can explore the ruins at your own pace or relax and take in the majesty of Machu Picchu and its stunning surroundings. Enjoy another chance to soak in the breathtaking scenery as you wind down at your charming hotel for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodations: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu
- Maximum altitude: 2,792 m/9,160 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 12: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Be sure to rise early to explore more of Machu Picchu. We’ll hike to Huayna Picchu by mid-morning to capture a better view of the lost city. Feel free to explore more as you return to Cusco, where you will spend the night at a colonial hotel near the main square.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodations: Costa del sol Cusco
- Maximum altitude: 3,400 m/11,154 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 13: Arrival in Puerto Maldonado
Get ready for an early morning flight from Cusco to the Amazonian rainforest town of Puerto Maldonado by meeting your shuttle at the airport. An agent will be waiting for you when you land at Puerto Maldonado International Airport, where they will take you to the harbor to arrange a boat ride to your rainforest resort.
Once you depart from Puerto Maldonado, you’ll immerse yourself in a new world of tropical rainforest. As you float up the Tambopata River, you’ll be enchanted by the sights and sounds you see along the way, with our expert guides pointing out native plants and animals while you relax and enjoy the scenery.
While on the water, you’ll receive a boxed lunch. For those who enjoy an extra challenge, there are plenty of hiking routes that you can get from our guides.
Along these paths, you may find several enormous Brazil nut trees and a variety of birds, as well as brown capuchin monkeys, agoutis, blue-morpho butterflies, trogons, and toucans.
You will also be comprehensively introduced to the numerous rainforest wonders during an evening slideshow presentation.
- Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodations: Eco Lodge Tambopata
- Maximum altitude: 3,400 m/11,154 ft.
- Minimum altitude: 183 m/600ft
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 14: Explore the Forest Trails & Wetland Secrets
After a hearty breakfast, you and your guide will have a brief motorized canoe ride to the trailhead, where you will set out on foot and paddle canoe to explore the Condenado Lake system.
Be ready because a family of enormous otters is known to make its home near the lake, and the entire region is teeming with avian and aquatic life. Feel free to wander around the surrounding forests and dip in the Gallucunca, a refreshing, clear stream next to the lodge.
Once the sun goes down, you’ll use a motorized boat to explore the Tambopata River in search of caimans (alligators) and other creatures that come out at night.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodations: Eco Lodge Tambopata
- Amazon altitude: 183 m/600ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 15: Hike to Tapir Lake, Sachavacayoc’s Hidden Gem
After breakfast, explore the enchanting Lake Sachavacayoc, a hidden gem within the pristine Tambopata National Reserve. Accessible through a picturesque rainforest trail, this unique oxbow lake promises a mesmerizing experience.
You will then embark on an extraordinary adventure as you navigate a serene stream and arrive at the breathtaking Sachavacayoc, where lush palm trees create a picturesque backdrop.
Discover the incredible diversity of wildlife that inhabits this tranquil lake. From endangered giant river otters to vibrant red-bellied macaws, there is no shortage of unique and fascinating species. Watch for the majestic anacondas, graceful side-neck turtles, and elusive black caimans as you explore this natural wonder. Afterward, you can return to the lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch.
During the afternoon, you can unwind in a hammock or enjoy a revitalizing swim in the nearby stream.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodations: Eco Lodge Tambopata
- Amazon altitude: 183 m/600ft.
- Approximate tour time: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 16: Farewell, Peru!
On the last day, remember to say goodbye to the Amazon Jungle, but not before you experience its breathtaking beauty for the final time as you embark on a canoe ride back to Puerto Maldonado.
After arriving at Puerto Maldonado airport, you can fly to your next destination within Peru or return to Lima for your international connection.
Ensure that your flight from Puerto Maldonado departs in the afternoon, preferably in the afternoon.
- Meals: Breakfast
Services Included:
- Professional Guided Services:
- Expertly trained and licensed tour guide fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua for all tours stated in the trip itinerary.
- Accommodations:
- 1 night in Lima, 2 nights in Arequipa, 1 night in the Colca Canyon, 1 Homestay and 2 nights in Puno, 3 nights in Cusco, 1 night in the Sacred Valley, 3 nights in the Amazon.
- Nutritious Meals:
- Fifteen wholesome breakfasts, ten satisfying lunches, and five delightful dinners to keep you energized throughout the adventure.
- Entrance and Transportation:
- Inclusion of all group fees, entrance to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu mountain, Arequipa city tour sites, Colca canyon, Lake Titicaca, Cusco city tour, and Sacred Valley sites, as well as entrance to the Amazon Park.
- Bus: Chivay to Puno and Puno to Cusco
- Trains: Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Cusco (Vistadome and Expedition)
- All transfers catered for, including a private vehicle for all the sites visited in the trip program and transfers from and to airports as described in the itinerary.
Services Not Included:
- Flights
- Airport taxes
- Meals unless listed in the itinerary
- Tips
- Travel Insurance (we highly recommend travel insurance)
Group Service:
- US $3350per Person
Private Service:
- US $3750 per Person
Upgrades:
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge(5-star hotel) – US $1300 per night (per person, assuming double occupancy)
- Return Hiram Bingham train (US $420) for trip from Aguas Calientes to either Poroy or to Ollantaytambo
What to Bring:
- Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
- Clothes (boots, warm fleece jacket, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, warm underwear, light long pants, gloves, rain jacket)
- Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
- Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended
- Head lamp
- Sunglasses
- Camera with spare batteries (batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
- Binoculars
- Insect repellent – minimum 40% DEET
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD:
Group: $3350
Private: $3750
DURATION:
16 Days / 15 Night
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
- Return Hiram Bingham train per person – USD: $420 per person
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge(5-star hotel) – US $1300 per night (per person, assuming double occupancy)
- Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD: $255 per person per night (double occupancy)
- Inkaterra Machu Picchu El Pueblo hotel (5-star hotel) – USD: $250 per person per night (double occupancy)
- El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra (4 star hotel) – USD: $115 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Single Hotel Room – USD $45 per person (this cost is with the regular hotel included)
OVERVIEW
- Duration: 16 Days, 15 Nights
- Day 1: Lima, the Gastronomical Capital of the Americas
- Day 2: From the Big City to the White City
- Day 3: Arequipa City Tour
- Day 4: Arequipa and the Colca Canyon’s Majestic Depths
- Day 5: Colca Valley—From Cross of the Condor to Puno’s Folkloric Capital
- Day 6: Uros Floating Island and Homestay
- Day 7: Taquile Island and Puno
- Day 8: Chasing the Inca Sun: From Puno’s Shores to Cusco’s Golden City
- Day 9: Explore the Mystic Heart of Cusco on a Cultural Adventure
- Day 10: Unveiling Chinchero’s Charm, Moray’s Magic, and Ollantaytambo’s Spirit!
- Day 11: Inca’s Lost City & Andean Retreat
- Day 12: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
- Day 13: Arrival in Puerto Maldonado
- Day 14: Explore the Forest Trails & Wetland Secrets
- Day 15: Hike to Tapir Lake, Sachavacayoc’s Hidden Gem
- Day 16: Farewell, Peru!
- Beginning Altitude: 2,170 m / 7,170 ft
- Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
- Overall Trek Difficulty: Easy
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT
Your Full Satisfaction or Your Money Back
We understand planning a big trip like ours at EAT takes a lot of trust, and we’re here to make sure that trust pays off from the moment you book to the day your adventure wraps up. We’re fully committed to making your experience unforgettable. If something doesn’t go as planned—whether it’s an issue with the service or something unexpected along the way—we’ll step in to fix it.
That even includes offering a refund if needed so you can book with total peace of mind.
Your Peruvian adventure means the world to us, and we’ll go the extra mile to make sure it not only meets but exceeds your expectations. With our satisfaction guarantee, you can relax and focus on taking in all the incredible beauty and culture Peru has to offer.
We Help You Experience Peru Through The Eyes of a Local
We’re 100% locally owned and operated, with guides, porters, and chefs who grew up in the Cusco region. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Quechua, our team brings unmatched cultural and historical knowledge to share with you. Traveling with us means gaining insight into Peru’s traditions, landscapes, and stories from those who know them best.
We Work With Professional Guides Who Provide Exceptional Service
Our guides are the best of the best. Truly skilled experts with at least 5 years of experience, every guide we employ is ready to share their expertise on Peru’s trails, culture, and history. Our porters are no exception. They work hard to make your journey one for the books, while our chefs will prepare you delicious meals along the way. With a 99% recommendation rate, we’re dedicated to making every detail of your trip unforgettable.
We’re Committed to Our Team
Our porters and horsemen are easily the backbone of every trek. That’s why we are fully committed to prioritizing their well-being. We ensure they’re paid above-average wages—higher than those offered by most tour companies—recognizing their hard work and dedication to the team. Beyond fair pay, we truly care for their well-being, providing proper gear, meals, and working conditions so they’re not just safe but comfortable, too.
We Look Out for Our Community
A portion of every trek we sell supports local projects, like helping fund a much-needed school roof in Sacsayhuaman, where many of our team live. For years, children in the area had no nearby school and faced grueling four-hour walks in harsh conditions to get an education. Today, thanks to these contributions, they have a local school, and we continue to donate to its upkeep—because making an impact goes beyond the trek.
We Customize Our Adventures to Suit Your Travel Style
We want every trip to feel like it was made just for you. Whether you’re keen on hiking the famous Inca Trail, exploring lesser-known spots in the Sacred Valley, or tackling our one-of-a-kind Ancashcocha + Inca Trail trek, we’ll plan your adventure to fit your travel style. To keep things personal, we keep group sizes small—and if your group is larger than eight, we’ll bring in an extra guide so no one misses out on the experience.
We Travel with Purpose – Serving the Women, Children, & Men of Peru
Every journey with us has a ripple effect. Your adventure supports ethical tourism, fair wages for porters, and opportunities for female trekkers–many of whom are breaking barriers on the Inca Trail–and children. We’re passionate about creating opportunities for local children to grow up healthy and learn about everything their heart desires. Through initiatives like repairing schools, donating educational materials, and funding projects, we make it a mission to build a brighter future for kids in the Cusco region. Every trek you take with us contributes to this mission. When you book with us, you’re not just exploring Peru; you’re investing in it and setting a standard for all other tourism companies and tourists.
Our Reputation is Built on Trust
Year after year, Eco Andes Trekking has earned top ratings on TripAdvisor and the prestigious Certificate of Excellence. We’ve worked hard for these awards and are proud to see our hard work recognized. Even prouder to know our travelers leave with unforgettable memories and stories worth sharing.
We Travel Sustainably & Responsibly
Peru’s landscapes are magnificent. That’s why we work so hard to protect them. We prioritize sustainable traveling by working with our local communities and employing indigenous guides––thus promoting economic empowerment and preserving cultural heritage. Along the journey, we’ll always encourage travelers to embrace responsible practices as advocates for the environment.
