Machu Picchu + Salar De Uyuni Tour 13d/12n

Exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the otherworldly landscapes of the Salar de Uyuni – the world’s largest salt flat – in a single trip is a dream for many travelers. This 13-day, 12-night adventure through Peru and Bolivia promises an unparalleled blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the Sacred Valley to the surreal salt flats, this tour offers an unforgettable journey that will leave you captivated and eager to discover more.

Key Points

• A 13-day/12-night tour exploring the iconic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu and the stunning Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, in Bolivia.
• Guided tours of historic Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, providing insights into the Inca civilization’s heritage and architecture.
• Visits to indigenous communities living on Lake Titicaca’s floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island, showcasing unique cultural traditions.
• Exploration of the Dalí Desert and Laguna Verde in Bolivia, featuring surreal landscapes and vibrant natural colors.
• Opportunity to experience the vast, mirror-like expanse of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the unique geology of Incahuasi Island.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Arrival in Lima and Cusco City Tour

After arriving in Lima, the group will be transferred to their hotel.

The next day, they’ll fly to Cusco, the historic Inca capital. A guided city tour awaits, showcasing the Cathedral, Qoricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay.

These impressive Inca ruins and colonial landmarks offer a deep dive into the region’s rich heritage. Visitors will learn about the Incas’ advanced architecture, engineering, and religious practices.

The tour provides an excellent introduction to Cusco before embarking on the Sacred Valley exploration on Day 3. This comprehensive itinerary ensures travelers make the most of their time in the Cusco region.

Exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

The Sacred Valley tour takes travelers on a journey through the heart of the Inca Empire. Highlights include Pisac, known for its impressive Inca ruins and vibrant indigenous market.

Next, visitors explore Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town with ancient stone structures. After lunch, the tour continues to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The following day, travelers embark on a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, marveling at its remarkable architecture and captivating history.

Travelers embark on a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, marveling at its remarkable architecture and captivating history.

With free time to explore on their own, guests can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and enigmatic atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Journey to Puno and Lake Titicaca Adventure

From Cusco, the tour continues to Puno, a city nestled on the shores of the iconic Lake Titicaca.

Travelers will explore the floating Uros Islands, home to indigenous communities who’ve lived on the lake for centuries.

Next, they’ll visit Taquile Island, known for its distinctive textiles and cultural traditions.

After the lake experience, the journey moves to Copacabana, Bolivia, where visitors can admire the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Copacabana and cross over to Isla del Sol, an island believed to be the birthplace of the Inca civilization.

Crossing the Border to Copacabana and Isla Del Sol

Leaving Puno, the tour crosses the border into Bolivia, arriving at the lakeside town of Copacabana.

Visitors explore the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Copacabana, a famous Catholic pilgrimage site. They then ferry across Lake Titicaca to Isla del Sol, the mythical birthplace of the Inca civilization.

On the island, they visit ancient Inca ruins and hike to the top, enjoying panoramic views of the lake.

After the day’s activities, the group transfers to La Paz, Bolivia’s administrative capital, to prepare for the next leg of the journey to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Dalí Desert and Laguna Verde

What’s next on the itinerary is a visit to the Dalí Desert and Laguna Verde.

Travelers will explore:

1. The Dalí Desert, named for its surreal, Salvador Dalí-esque landscape of rock formations and salt deposits.

2. Laguna Verde, a stunning emerald-green lake nestled in the Andes, with the imposing Licancabur volcano as a backdrop.

3. The unique geological features and vibrant colors of these spectacular natural wonders, providing a breathtaking contrast to the previous destinations.

This day promises to be a visual treat, showcasing the diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes of Bolivia.

Discovering the Uyuni Salt Flats and Incahuasi Island

What awaits travelers next on this captivating journey is the exploration of the renowned Uyuni Salt Flats and the unique Incahuasi Island.

The world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, stretches out in a vast, dazzling white expanse. Visitors marvel at the surreal, mirror-like reflections on the salt crust.

Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, dazzles visitors with its vast, mirror-like reflections on the salt crust.

At the island’s center, ancient coral fossils dot the landscape, creating a lunar-like environment. This natural wonder provides a stunning backdrop for photography and an unforgettable experience.

After exploring the salt flats, the tour continues to the lagoons of Honda, Hedionda, and Cañapa, showcasing Bolivia’s diverse landscapes.

Exploring the Salar De Coipasa and Salar De Empexa

What else awaits visitors on this captivating journey through Bolivia’s salt-kissed landscapes?

After exploring the iconic Salar de Uyuni, the tour heads to the lesser-known but equally stunning Salar de Coipasa and Salar de Empexa.

The Salar de Coipasa is a mesmerizing expanse of crystalline white salt, dotted with crystalline formations that glisten in the sun.

Nearby, the Salar de Empexa offers a more expansive and serene environment, perfect for capturing breathtaking photographs.

Visitors can expect to be awed by the sheer vastness and beauty of these remarkable salt flats before returning to La Paz.

La Paz City Tour and Valley of the Moon

After exploring the breathtaking salt flats of Salar de Coipasa and Salar de Empexa, the journey continues to the cultural heart of Bolivia – La Paz.

Travelers will discover the vibrant city on a guided tour, exploring iconic landmarks like the presidential palace, San Francisco Church, and the bustling street markets.

The highlight is a visit to the Valley of the Moon, a geological wonder with unique rock formations and lunar-like landscapes.

Travelers can witness the city’s rich cultural heritage, marvel at its architectural wonders, and enjoy the lively local atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Travel Insurance Required for This Tour?

Travel insurance isn’t required, but it’s strongly recommended. It can provide coverage for unexpected events, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations, ensuring a smoother and more protected travel experience.

What Is the Recommended Spending Money for This Trip?

The recommended spending money for this 13-day tour is around $300-$500 per person. This should cover additional meals, tips, personal expenses, and any optional activities not included in the tour package.

Can the Tour Dates Be Changed After Booking?

The tour provider generally allows date changes after booking, though there may be a fee. Travelers should check the provider’s policies and fees before making any changes to the tour dates.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Included Meals?

The tour provider can accommodate most dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, for the included meals. Guests should notify the provider of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.

How Much Time Is Needed for Optional Activities During Free Time?

The itinerary doesn’t specify the exact duration of free time, but participants can expect around 1-2 hours of free time on most days to explore optional activities. The specific time will depend on the day’s scheduled events.

The Sum Up

This Machu Picchu and Salar de Uyuni tour offers an unparalleled experience that combines the rich cultural heritage of Peru with the breathtaking natural landscapes of Bolivia. From the iconic Incan citadel to the world’s largest salt flat, this 13-day adventure provides travelers with an unforgettable journey filled with ancient wonders and stunning vistas. It’s a must-see for those seeking an extraordinary South American exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: