Living Peru with Vinicunca

Living Peru with Vinicunca

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Living Peru with Vinicunca

11 Days Starting in Lima and ending in Cusco

Visiting: Lima, Arequipa, Puno, Cusco

Tour operator:

Lima Tours

Tour code:

204837

Guide Type:

Partially Guided

Group size:

10 - 20

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise request

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Peru with the "Living Peru with Vinicunca" tour, a meticulously crafted adventure that takes you from the vibrant streets of Lima to the awe-inspiring heights of Vinicunca's Rainbow Mountain. Discover the rich tapestry of Peru's history, culture, and natural beauty as you explore UNESCO-listed sites in Lima, including the historic Casa Aliaga and the Larco Museum. Marvel at Arequipa's colonial architecture against the backdrop of the Misti volcano, witness the majestic flight of condors in the Colca Valley, and immerse yourself in the unique cultures of Lake Titicaca's Uros and Taquile Islands. The ancient Inca capital of Cusco awaits with its architectural wonders, leading you to the mystical Machu Picchu. The journey culminates in a trek to the stunning Vinicunca, where the mountain's seven colors reveal nature's artistry. With bilingual guides, comfortable accommodations, and inclusive meals, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru's most cherished treasures.

Highlights

  • Lima: Explore the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, including the historical Casa Aliaga, the Cathedral, and the Larco Museum

  • Arequipa: Discover the 'forbidden city' of Santa Catalina, visit the Jesuit church, and enjoy views of the Misti volcano

  • Colca Valley: Watch the condor soar over the valley and visit remote villages

  • Lake Titicaca: Experience Taquile and the floating islands of Uros

  • Cusco: Visit the ancient Inca capital, the Cathedral, Sacsayhuaman, and Puca Pucara

  • Machu Picchu: Explore the lost city of the Incas with its fascinating views

  • Vinicunca: Marvel at the mountain of 7 colors, also known as the rainbow mountain

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Lima

Location: Lima

Arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima. Upon arrival, a representative will be waiting to greet you at the airport and the transportation service will transfer you to your hotel at the scheduled time. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure in Lima. Take the opportunity to rest and recover after the flight or head out into the city for your first glimpse of life in Peru´s sprawling capital city. Alternatively, you can book our optional Magic Water Circuit with Dinner: 

Magic Water Circuit with Dinner (shared basis): A modern system of fountains certified as the largest in the world by the Guinness World Records. Built-in Exhibition Park, the Magical Water Circuit attracts crowds during summer and winter, being one of the new favorite attractions of Lima. See yourself and enjoy our water cruise that is followed by a unique gastronomical experience at a restaurant, accompanied by a delicious dinner.

 Notes: Shared service. Not available on Sundays and Mondays. Start time: 17:30. Duration 4 hours. Includes Pick-up and Drop-off, Bilingual guide (Spanish and English), Admission to Magic Water Circuit, and dinner.

  • Overnight in Lima

Day 2 : Lima

Location: Lima

Wake up to breakfast in the hotel before hitting the streets of Lima’s old town, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site packed with fascinating historical buildings. Start with the Larco Museum, located in the traditional Pueblo Libre district, which is housed in a beautifully restored vice regal mansion built on a pre-Columbian pyramid. The museum boasts the world’s most complete pre-Hispanic collection of gold and silver objects, as well as pieces of erotic art. Then visit Casa Aliaga, a colonial mansion granted in 1535 by chief conquistador Francisco Pizarro to Jerónimo de Aliaga, one of his captains. This is the only house from that time that to this day has always been owned by the same family. Continue to a scenic tour in the colonial downtown, which originates and spreads out from the Main Square. Here you can appreciate the grandiose architecture of the Spanish Empire and be amazed by Lima´s Cathedral. Erected in the 16th century, this building took more than 80 years to complete. After the tour, you’ll be transferred back to the hotel. Rest of the afternoon at leisure.

  • Overnight in Lima.

Day 3 : Lima - Arequipa (90 Mins By Flight/ Not Included)

Location: Arequipa

Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a transfer to Lima airport. (domestic flight is not included). Once you land in Arequipa, a transportation service will take you to your hotel. Then, after a representative informs you about the attractions and services the city has to offer, go enjoy a tour of the town. The route begins in Arequipa´s Main Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Peru. Facing this square is the imposing Cathedral, built in the 17th century. From there, continue to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a cloister and small religious citadel built in 1579, still in use to this date. Then, visit the Church of the Compañia de Jesus (1590). Considered a classic example of local baroque architecture, it houses an exceptional collection of paintings and murals. Lastly, visit the districts of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto for a panoramic view of the Arequipa countryside. At the end, take a transfer back to the hotel.


  • Overnight in Arequipa.

Day 4 : Arequipa - Valley And Colca Canyon (180 Km - 3.5 Hrs)

Charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel before leaving the city via Yura, a district characterised by its rugged scenery, hills and cliffs. Then enter the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, an extensive grass plain where vicuñas (an Andean camelid and a national symbol) can be spotted. Head through Vizcachani and Pampas de Toccra up to the crater of the Chucura volcano. From there, continue one last leg of the way to reach the Mirador de los Andes at Patapampa, a stunning viewpoint 4,800 metres above sea level with impressive views of the volcanoes surrounding Arequipa. Lunch is served in the town of Chivay and in the afternoon you can rest in the hotel.

  • Overnight  in Colca

Day 5 : Valley And Colca Canyon- Puno (255 Km - 4.5 Hrs)

Location: Puno

Once breakfast is over, head to Condor’s Cross, from where you can contemplate the view of the Colca Valley (one of the world´s deepest canyons) and see the large, majestic condor soaring over the valley, only a few metres away from where you stand. Back in Chivay, visit the towns of Pinchollo, Maca, Achoma and Yanque, and in between snap some more memorable photos at the Antahuilque and Choquetico viewpoints. Then later on continue to Puno with a detour that takes you through Patahuasi. Along the way, observe the amazing stone forests and sky-blue lagoons populated by cranes that fill this area 4,000 metres above sea level. Arrive at Puno after this amazing journey and enjoy a well-deserved rest at the hotel.

  • Overnight in Puno

Day 6 : Puno - Lake Titicaca: Uros And Taquile Islands (1 Hr By Boat)

Location: Puno

After breakfast at the hotel, travel to the port of Puno where a boat will be waiting to take you to the beautiful Uros Islands. The Uros are an indigenous people of Peru that live on a series of man-made islands, created entirely from the buoyant totora reeds that grow abundantly in the shallows of the lake. The islands are composed of layers of woven totora, which are constantly replenished from the top as they rot from the bottom. The Uros people also use reeds to construct their homes, so cooking is done outdoors to avoid possible fires! After visiting this fascinating island for an hour and a half, sail to Taquile, a small slice of heaven that once belonged to the Inca Empire and whose residents speak Quechua.  Look around and you will notice traces of its Incan past in the ruins that still exist around the island. After a brief introduction, the local community will give you an insight into their customs and traditions with a cultural demonstration. Lunch is enjoyed on the island before the return trip to Puno.

  • Overnight in Puno.

Day 7 : Puno - Cusco (360 Km - 7 Hrs)

Location: Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, and at the agreed time, a transportation service will transfer you to the bus station, where a representative will help you catch your bus to Cusco. On the way, you’ll make a number of interesting stops. The first is the town of Pucara and the Pucara Lithic Museum. This was the first urban settlement on Lake Titicaca, established between 100 and 300 A.D. After a brief break at La Raya, the highest point of the trip between Puno and Cusco, at the dizzying altitude of 4,313 metres above sea level, the bus stops at Sicuani, where lunch is served. We then head on to Racchi, home to the Wiracocha Temple, an Inca site built in honour of a powerful Andean god. The rectangular construction boasts thatched rooftops 20 metres above the ground; these are thought to be the highest in the Inca Empire. Later, visit Andahuaylillas, a town located around 40 kilometres away from Cusco. The main attraction here is the local Church, known as the "Sistine Chapel of America" owing to the high quality of art found inside. The church was built during the 16th century on top of Wari remains. Afterwards, a last 40 kilometre drive gets you to Cusco, today’s destination. Lunch included.



  • Overnight in Cusco.


Day 8 : Cusco

Location: Cusco

Wake up to breakfast in the hotel, and then enjoy a guided tour of the former capital of the Inca Empire. The tour begins at the Santo Domingo Convent, a building constructed on the site of Coricancha, one of the most important Incan complexes dedicated to sun worship. According to historic records, the original temple walls depicted scenes of nature and were covered in gold leaf. After Coricancha, visit the imposing cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, then head to the Cusco hills, where you’ll find the fortress of Sacsayhuamán and panoramic views of Cusco. Continue on to Qenqo, an archaeological site where it is believed the Incas carried out religious rituals to improve harvests. Your tour ends in Puka Pukara, meaning ‘red fortress’ in Quechua. Puka Pukara is believed to be an ancient military site comprising numerous rooms, courtyards, baths, aqueducts and towers. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

  • Overnight in Cusco.

Day 9 : Cusco - Machu Picchu - Cusco (150 Km - 8 Hrs)

Location: Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, your journey to Machu Picchu begins with a train ride Aguas Calientes, also known as "Machu Picchu Pueblo", the last stop before entering the most important archaeological site in Peru. In Aguas Calientes you’ll find a craft market, restaurants and, for those who prefer to spend the night at the foot of the mountain and climb early in the morning, hotels for all budgets. Take a short bus ride up to Machu Picchu, the architectural and engineering masterpiece that once served as a sanctuary and refuge for the Inca ruler Pachacútec. Machu Picchu, which means "Old Mountain", is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site and one of the seven new wonders of the world. At the end of the tour, take a bus back to Aguas Calientes and have lunch at Café Inkaterra. In the afternoon you’ll be taken to Aguas Calientes station, where you’ll board the train back to Cusco. 

  • Overnight in Cusco.

Day 10 : Cusco - Vinicunca- Cusco (240Km - 7Hrs)

Location: Cusco

Your adventure starts after breakfast at the hotel. About 140 km southeast of Cusco is one of nature's most beautiful works: the 7-Colour Mountain. At its highest point, this place, also known as the ‘Rainbow Mountain’, is 5,200 metres above sea level. You’ll be picked up early in the morning and transferred to Cusipata, where the trek begins. The road is surrounded by breath-taking views of the Andes, especially the majestic Ausangate, one of the most important mountains in Cusco, considered a sacred entity since the time of the Incas. Once you reach the 7-Colour Mountain viewpoint, admire the natural riot of colours from above. Then starts the leisurely descent back to Cusipata, from where you are transferred back to your hotel. 


Distance: 4 Km. Ascent: 406 meters. Descent: 406 meters. Duration: 3 hours.


Overnight in Cusco


Day 11 : Departure Cusco

Location: Cusco

After finishing your breakfast at the hotel transfer to the airport. Although this is the last day of your journey through the Cusco, we hope that your memories of this remarkable region, bursting with both culture and history, will last a lifetime.

  • Breakfast included. 

What's Included

TOUR GUIDE:

  • Operated with  Bilingual local guide: English  and spanish -speaking guide

ACCOMMODATION:

  • 10 nights' accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS


Day 1-2 Lima:

Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*

Day 3; Arequipa:

Standard Hotel Category = Maison D'Elise or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Casa Andina Private Collection Arequipa or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Wyndham Costa del Sol Arequipa or similar 5*

Day 4; Colca:

Standard Hotel Category = Casa Andina Standard Colca or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Colca Lodge or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Belmond Las Casitas or similar 5*

Day 5-6; Puno:

Standard Hotel Category = Xima Puno or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Posada del Inca or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca or similar 5*

Day 7-10; Cusco:

Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*

Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*

MEALS:

  • 10 breakfasts
  • 4 lunches on day 4, 6, 7, 9
  • 2 box lunches on day 5, 10

TRANSPORT:

  • Transfers from and to airports
  • Transfers from/to train stations in shared vehicle
  • Train to Machu Picchu round trip

ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:

Admission to all major monuments and sightseeing attractions mentioned in above itinerary: Casa Aliaga, Cathedral and Larco Museum in Lima; Santa Catalina Monastery and Society of Jesus Church in Arequipa; Condor Cross in Valley & Colca Canyon; Uros and Taquile Islands in Puno; Pucara, Racchi and Andahuaylillas on route from Puno to Cusco; Coricancha, Cathedral, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay in Cusco; Machu Picchu on day 9, Cusco Tourist Tax (BTC ticket), Full day Vinicunca

What's Not Included

  • Expenses of a personal nature. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during meals. Meals not stated in the programme
  • International flights to Peru
  • Domestic flights (we advise booking the first flights in the morning)
  • International and domestic airport departure taxes
  • Tips for driver and guide 
  • Optional visits mentioned as not included

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for visiting the coastal areas of Peru, while for the high Andean area the use of warm clothing is recommended. It is not recommended that visitors wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or short clothes when visiting religious temples or official buildings. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Please Note

Rates do not apply to Peruvians or residents with more than 60 days of stay. If passengers are Peruvians or exceed 60 days of stay, sale taxes (18%) will be collected by our local operator

Please note that check-in in most hotels begins at 13:00 hrs. Clients will be subject to the availability of the room if they arrive before time, allowed to wait in the hotel lobby

If your trip includes the visit to high altitude cities such as Cusco and Puno located at more than 3,400 metres (11,200 feet above sea level), do not forget to take precautions in order to avoid altitude sickness. Passengers who have heart problems or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before travelling

Upon arrival, it is recommended to rest for few hours, drink coca tea and eat lightly. As a reference, Machu Picchu is located at 2,400 meters (8,000 feet above sea level)

We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.

INSTRUCTIONS

Domestic flight from Lima to Arequipa is not included and must arrive no later than 10:30hrs. Noon arrivals are too late. Carry the same document that you presented to the agency, given that train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu will be issued with the same information

In all train services to Machu Picchu, the passenger can carry only hand luggage (backpack, bag or briefcase) weighing no more than 5kg / 11lb on the train to / from Machu Picchu. You will find your luggage at the chosen hotel. Allowed size: 62 linear inches 157cm (height + length + width). Quantity Weight Size (length + width + height) = 1 one handbag or backpack 5kg/11lb 62 inches/157cm.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW ENTRANCE REGULATIONS TO MACHU PICCHU

The current restrictions on visits to Machu Picchu allow a maximum stay of four hours in the citadel accompanied by a guide during the first entry. If the visitor tours on an alternate route (Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu) the passenger will have three hours to for this purpose, additional to the four hours in the citadel. If the passenger wishes to enter the citadel again during the afternoon shift or the next day, he/she must previously acquire an additional ticket to enter during the new shift. There is no ticket sale in the archaeological zone.

 It is forbidden the follow objects: professional cameras that require lights and tripods, or with telephoto lenses with a weigh higher than 2 kilos (in order to

use them, special authorization is needed, as well as the payment of an additional fee), drones, selfie sticks, sprays, high heels, walking sticks without

rubber tip, banners and posters, sharp objects and backpacks bigger than 40cm x 35 cm x 20 cm.  

NEW PLASTIC REGULATION:

After the prohibition of the access of single use plastic items to 76 natural areas including Machu Picchu, it is important to use reusable bottles. 

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Lima:

  • Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*

Day 3; Arequipa:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Maison D'Elise or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Casa Andina Private Collection Arequipa or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Wyndham Costa del Sol Arequipa or similar 5*

Day 4; Colca:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Casa Andina Standard Colca or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Colca Lodge or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Belmond Las Casitas or similar 5*

Day 5-6; Puno:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Xima Puno or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Posada del Inca or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca or similar 5*

Day 7-10; Cusco:

  • Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Lima:

  • Standard Hotel Category = El Tambo II or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = José Antonio Deluxe or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Hyatt Centric San Isidro or similar 5*

Day 3; Arequipa:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Maison D'Elise or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Casa Andina Private Collection Arequipa or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Wyndham Costa del Sol Arequipa or similar 5*

Day 4; Colca:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Casa Andina Standard Colca or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Colca Lodge or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Belmond Las Casitas or similar 5*

Day 5-6; Puno:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Xima Puno or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Sonesta Posada del Inca or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca or similar 5*

Day 7-10; Cusco:

  • Standard Hotel Category = San Agustin Internacional or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hilton Garden Inn or similar 4*
  • Deluxe Hotel Category = Aranwa Cusco Boutique or similar 5*

Check out our Q&As

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Yes

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

Reviews of this operator

Jose G.  

Muy preparados y respetuosos, gracias LIma Tours

15-Feb-2023

El personal muy atento, preparados, respetuosos

Cesar  

Excelente empresa

22-Feb-2023

Me gusto la atención y la formalidad de la agencia.

Marcela  

Todo excelente la atención de team de Lima Tours muy buena

16-Feb-2023

Todo excelente la atención de team de Lima Tours muy buena

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Lima Tours requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 89 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of lima tours charges.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.