Peru 13 Day Tour: From the Dunes of Ica to the Peaks of the Cordillera Blanca
Essential Peru: Where the Coast and the Andes Meet
Exploring Peru with this program is a transformative experience. It’s a physical and emotional transition from the Pacific breeze to the pure air of the snow-capped peaks. Many call it “The Journey of Total Connection.” This package offers a perfect blend of ATV adventure and archaeological mysticism. It’s a favorite among those seeking to escape the conventional and feel the power of the land. Here, you’ll experience unforgettable moments in the heart of an ancient culture.Why choose the 13-Day Peru Tour with Andina Travel?
Our itinerary is designed to offer you comfort and adventure in perfect balance. The landscape invites you to enjoy sunset picnics in the Ica desert. It challenges you to push your limits at the mystical Laguna 69 and Rainbow Mountain. The reward isn’t just reaching the wonders of the modern world. You’ll enjoy professional photo sessions and expert guides every step of the way. Trust your body and let yourself be guided by the magic of the Andes and the coast.Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Lima, we will welcome you and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. You will explore the main attractions of the Peruvian capital on a comprehensive city tour. You will discover its historic center, traditional neighborhoods, and modern waterfront areas. Colonial history blends seamlessly with the city’s contemporary life. It’s the perfect start to discovering the vibrant energy of the gastronomic capital.
We’ll travel to Ica for a unique experience surrounded by endless dunes. You’ll enjoy a picnic in the desert in a stunning natural setting. Afterward, we’ll visit Paracas to admire its coastal landscapes and marine biodiversity. That evening, we’ll begin our overnight journey to the city of Huaraz. We’ll cross the coast to reach the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.
You’ll have the morning free in Huaraz to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy an ATV tour with breathtaking panoramic views. An excursion to Laguna Parón, famous for its intense turquoise color and imposing snow-capped peaks, is also planned. The ultimate challenge will be the hike to the iconic Laguna 69 in Huascarán National Park. This trek winds through waterfalls, culminating in one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world.
We’ll take a direct flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. You’ll have the rest of the day free to enjoy the city and acclimatize. We’ll take a city tour and visit four nearby archaeological sites. You’ll explore temples, plazas, and fortresses that reveal the splendor of the Inca civilization. The imperial city will captivate you with its cobblestone streets and ancient architecture.
We’ll explore the Sacred Valley, visiting Andean villages and traditional markets. We’ll see archaeological sites that showcase the advanced engineering of the Incas. We’ll travel to Aguas Calientes to spend the night at the foot of this wonder. The next day, we’ll visit the majestic Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world. You’ll have time to explore this historic sanctuary surrounded by mystery and mountains.
Excursion to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, a unique natural phenomenon in the Andes. The tour offers stunning high-altitude landscapes that reward every step of the ascent. As an optional extra, you can visit the Maras salt mines and the Moray terraces. Finally, we will transfer you to the bus terminal or airport for your return flight. This concludes an unforgettable journey through the true essence of Peru.
Include
- Transfers: All private airport-hotel-bus terminal transfers.
- Tours: Certified professional guides specializing in culture and mountaineering.
- Flights: Domestic flight Huaraz-Cusco to optimize your time.
- Tickets: Entrance fees to Machu Picchu, National Parks, and archaeological sites.
- Experiences: Desert picnic, ATV tour in Huaraz, and photo session.
Not Included
- Flights: International flights to and from Peru.
- Meals: Lunches and dinners not specifically detailed in the program.
- Equipment: Personal technical clothing, trekking poles, or snow gear.
- Insurance: Medical coverage for extreme adventure activities.
Recommendations
- Documents: Valid original passport for mandatory official registration.
- Clothing: Layered clothing for warmth on the coast and extreme cold in the Andes.
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with proven non-slip soles.
- Protection: Sunscreen, UV sunglasses, hat, and lip balm.
- Health: Altitude sickness medication, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
The difficulty level is moderate to high. The itinerary includes days of gradual acclimatization in Huaraz and Cusco. However, Laguna 69 and Rainbow Mountain require a good level of physical fitness.
The trip is done in executive service buses with very comfortable sleeper seats. The journey lasts about 8 hours, allowing you to arrive in Huaraz rested in the morning.
It’s a selection of local products and drinks served in a private setting in the dunes. It’s designed for enjoying the sunset in a unique natural environment.
Yes, it’s an optional tour scheduled for your last day in Cusco. Please let us know in advance so we can include it in your departure plans.
We use modern vans or minibuses with air conditioning and panoramic views. The train trip to Aguas Calientes also offers spectacular windows.
May through October is the ideal dry season. You’ll have sunny days both on the coast and in the Andes, with clear skies.
The signal is very limited or nonexistent in high mountain areas. Take advantage of the lack of coverage to enjoy the Andean landscape in all its splendor.
It’s advisable to carry Peruvian soles in small bills for markets and tips. In larger cities, credit cards and US dollars are accepted.
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