Get off the beaten path on this 11-day custom-tailored Peru tour to show you adventurous and unfettered wonders. From the deeply drawn lines of a pre-Columbian civilization to a serene natural sanctuary, step away from the smooth cobblestones, follow the trail to Machu Picchu, and cruise to the Ballestas Islands on the road less traveled where adventure waits around every corner.
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Lima - Where the Off-road Begins
Arrive in Lima and witness the beauty of the modern city against the backdrop of its Spanish colonial past. Palaces and cathedrals glisten in the sunlight, the scent of fresh ceviche drifts through the streets, and the neighborhoods bustle with a variety of life. Sit along the shore in Miraflores, the trendy bohemian neighborhood. The waves crash on the sand sending mist into the air. Surfers cut along the breaking water with grace and agility. The lighthouse stands high over the beach with white and black stripes to set it against the backdrop of the city, its light shining on the open water in the dark of the night. Your adventure in Peru begins with the soothing sounds of the waves welcoming you to Peru.
What's Included:
Day 2
Ica - Around the Non-Roads of Ica
Day 3
Ica - Where No Roads Go
Day 4
Nazca - Give Up Roads For Lines
Day 5
Abancay - From Drawn Lines to Open Air
Day 6
Sacred Valley - The Guiding Road to the Valley
Day 7
Sacred Valley - Sacred Roads Abound
Day 8
Cusco - One Known Road Above the Clouds
Day 9
Cusco - Inca Roads and Cobblestones
Day 10
Lima - The Road to the City of Kings
Day 11
Lima - The Road Leads Home
Trip Highlights
- Discover the breathtaking Lost City of Machu Picchu
- Traverse the trails through the Sacred Valley
- Cruise along the coast of Peru to see the wildlife of the Ballestas Islands
- Take to the sky to explore the pre-Columbian majesty and mystery of the Nazca Lines from above
- Experience the natural beauty of the National Sanctuary of Ampay
- Travel through the vineyards of Inca and Paracas National Park by way of SUV
- Journey through the Andean towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo
- Indulge in the brilliance of a bustling Pisac market
- Tour through Cusco and the fabulous remains of the Inca beneath the Spanish colonial facades
- Relax on the sandy beach of the Huacachina Oasis
Detailed Description
Get off the beaten path on this 4x4 11-day adventure through a unique Peru tour for the strong of heart, curious questioner, random explorer, naturalist, observer, Andean lover, amateur astronomer, and anyone who has ever wanted to take their time experiencing the natural and ancient beauty of the countryside. See the pre-Columbian wonders that continue to make people question. Witness the natural sweeping beauty of the Peruvian seaside. Explore the sensational nature of the Andes. Discover how breathtaking Machu Picchu truly is. This adventure encompasses the vast majesty of Peru, off the beaten path to where you may not have even known that the path existed at all.
Begin your off road adventure in Lima where the backdrop of the ocean shines against the opulent Spanish architecture. Climb aboard an SUV and journey out to the city of Ica along the arid coast, where the Paracas National Reserve stands along crashing waves and red sand. The Ballestas Islands are home to stunning birds, including pelicans and boobies. The bark of sea lions mixes with the rush of the waves, as you cruise through the sapphire water, and venture inland to the Huacachina Oasis; the sand dunes roll across the horizon, and the water is cool on your toes. Fly over the arid desert plain to see the mysterious and awesome Nazca Lines, predating the Inca with carved illustrations into the earth before you journey to Abancay and spend time amongst the magnificent purity of the National Sanctuary of Ampay.
Your adventure continues as you travel into the Sacred Valley of the Incas and witness the vivacious Pisac market where colors shine and the comforts of Peruvian cuisine abound. Ollantaytambo sits along the valley floor, an antique Inca city still occupied and eclipsed by the ruins carved along and into the mountain. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the valley on a train ride to the foothills of Machu Picchu. Step into this Wonder of the World and be guided through the Lost City, standing along the mountain tops where no roads could have taken you except for the ones built by the Inca. Venture into Cusco, the once Inca capital, and journey through the streets to see the remaining beauty of the Spanish architecture, Inca foundations, and Andean culture.
Return to Lima where the path of adventure follows, giving you ample opportunity and options to step away from the crowds and witness the spectacular water ballet beneath the starlight. Your adventure through Peru will take you off roads, up mountains, within valleys, circling islands, and to dancing, glowing water. Your heart will race over sand dunes and your mind will wander through history. You may be headed home eventually but there will always be another adventure waiting around the corner. Read what others have said about their Peru experience here.
Starting Price
$4,000 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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