9-Day Southern Classic Route Arequipa Puno Cusco and Machu Picchu

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arequipa, the White City
1 stop
1
Welcome to Arequipa, the "White City"! Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the colonial neighborhood of San Lázaro, admire the volcanic landscapes from Carmen Alto, and visit Yanahuara’s iconic arches. Discover the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery, stroll through the Plaza de Armas, and marvel at the Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. A perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views!
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
The volcanos route, Pampa Cañahuas and Chivay
1 stop
2
Colca Canyon
Outing in an adventure by land towards the spectacular Colca Valley. We take the route of the volcanos, going up by the side of the Chachani volcano, and having a formidable view of the Misti and the Picchu volcanos. Our path will go across the vicuna reserve of Pampa Cañahuas, high Andean habitat where the vicunas live and are protected. The highest point of our trajectory will reach 4,900 m.a.s.l. in the pass of Patapampa, from there we can appreciate the active volcano Sabancaya. Descent to the Colca Valley. Arrival and lodging. Lunch at the hotel. Free time to rest or to enjoy a bath in the thermal waters in the area.
Admission ticket free
Day 3
Colca Canyon, Observation point of the Cruz del Cóndor and Route to Puno
1 stop
3
At dawn, we head towards the observation point of the Cruz del Cóndor. We will be observing the imposing flight of the condors, huge Andean birds that are the symbol of the Andean countries. The view lets us appreciate the great dimension of the canyon, considered one of the world’s deepest canyons. We will visit the towns of Maca and Yanque that still preserve its colonial churches. Lunch in a restaurant in the area. In the afternoon, departure by bus in a 6 hour and a half trip to the city of Puno. Arrival, assistance and transfer to the hotel.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
The Titicaca Sacred Lake and its islands
1 stop
4
Puno
In the morning, board a motorboat to visit the Uros, a town of people that sought refuge inside Lake Titicaca, fleeing the different cultures that arrived to dominate them. This community continues building their islands following the ancient techniques, and welcome us to pass on their knowledge. Its people make a living from its visitors. Continue sailing towards the Island of Taquile. The community of this island has maintained alive its traditions, clothes and way of life. It is one of the few Quechua communities in a region that is essentially Aymara, and they have kept unreachable to modernity and its possible effect on their lives. They will welcome us with their music and dances. Lunch at a community restaurant, a simple meal but very rich in nutrients. Afterwards, take a walk around the surrounding areas to appreciate the beautiful view of the Lake Titicaca. Return to the port of Puno. Transfer to the hotel.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Route of the Altiplano from Cusco to Titicaca lake
1 stop
5
Cusco
We depart by tour bus to Cusco, with fascinating stops along the route. First, we visit the Pucará Lithic Museum, home to ancient monoliths, stelas, and the famous Toritos de Pucará, symbols of protection and prosperity. Next, we reach La Raya at 4,335 m.a.s.l., the natural divide between the Titicaca and Amazon basins. After lunch, we explore Racchi, where the impressive Temple of Wiracocha showcases its towering stone walls. Our final stop is the stunning San Pedro Apóstol Church of Andahuaylillas, known as the Sistine Chapel of America for its breathtaking murals. Arrival in Cusco, transfer to the hotel.
Admission ticket free
Day 6
Archaeological Park of Sacsayhuaman, Tambomachay, Q'enqo, Puca Pucara & Cusco, Capital of Inca Empire
1 stop
6
Cusco
In the morning, we escape the crowds to visit Sacsayhuamán, an awe-inspiring Inca fortress surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. We then explore Q’enqo, with its mysterious sacrificial altar carved into rock, followed by a stop at Puca Pucará and Tambomachay, an architectural masterpiece linked to Andean spirituality. In the afternoon, our exclusive city tour begins at San Cristóbal Square, offering a panoramic view of Cusco. We dive into local flavors at San Pedro Market before discovering the splendor of Qorikancha, the golden temple of the Incas. Strolling through San Blas, we admire the Twelve-Angled Stone and the Inca Roca Palace, now the Archbishop’s Palace. Our journey ends at the majestic Cusco Cathedral, home to invaluable colonial art.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Inca Village of Chinchero, Terraces of Moray and the Inca Village of Ollantaytambo
1 stop
7
Sacred Valley
Today, we explore the most iconic sites of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our journey begins in Chinchero, a vibrant Andean village known for its talented weaving women. At a textile center, we witness ancient Inca dyeing and spinning techniques using alpaca wool. After visiting the Inca plaza and its charming colonial church, we continue to Moray, a fascinating Inca agricultural laboratory with circular terraces that recreated microclimates. After lunch, we visit Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca village, where we explore the Temple of the Ten Windows, the Princess' Bath, and the Sun Temple. From the heights of Ollantaytambo, we capture breathtaking postcard-worthy views, closing a magical day in the Sacred Valley. Lodging in the area.
7 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Machu Picchu, the Lost City
1 stop
8
Machu Picchu
The long-awaited moment has arrived! Board your selected train at Ollantaytambo Station and journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu Station. Upon arrival, our team will assist you in boarding the bus that ascends a scenic winding road with stunning views of the Urubamba River and its deep canyon. Finally, we arrive at the awe-inspiring Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Be amazed by its terraces, staircases, ceremonial sites, and urban structures, a true masterpiece of Inca engineering. Feel the mystical energy of this sacred site as you explore its hidden corners and panoramic viewpoints. After an unforgettable experience, enjoy a delicious lunch before returning by train to Cusco, where a comfortable transfer will take you to your hotel. A day filled with history, wonder, and breathtaking landscapes!
8 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Farewell
1 stop
9
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima, where you will connect with your return flight home. Wishing you a safe journey and hoping to welcome you back to Peru soon!
Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tags