Route South 12 Days : Lima-Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco

Set out on a captivating journey through Peru’s diverse landscapes with the "Route South 12 Days: Lima-Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco" itinerary. From the vibrant capital of Lima to the majestic Andes, this comprehensive tour immerses travelers in the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Uncover the secrets of the Ballestas Islands, savor vineyard lunches in Ica, and marvel at the historic splendor of Arequipa. But the adventure has only just begun…

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Key Points

This 12-day itinerary covers major destinations in southern Peru, including Lima, Ica, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco.
The tour includes visits to Ballestas Islands, Huacachina sand dunes, Colca Canyon, Uros and Amantani Islands, and the iconic Machu Picchu.
The trip is priced from €1,300.69 per person and includes airport transfers, guided tours, entrance fees, and various meals.
Highlights include exploring Arequipa’s historic city center, experiencing traditional Andean culture on the islands of Lake Titicaca, and discovering the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The tour provides a mix of cultural, natural, and adventure activities, with a focus on Peru’s rich history and diverse landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This 12-day itinerary takes travelers on a captivating journey from Lima to Cusco, showcasing Peru’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Priced from €1,300.69 per person, the route covers key destinations like Ica, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco.

From €1,300.69 per person, this route explores Peru’s key destinations including Ica, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the convenience of reserving now and paying later.

The tour features a live Spanish and English-speaking guide, providing an immersive cultural experience.

With a well-rounded mix of island explorations, ancient sites, and outdoor adventures, this 12-day South route promises an unforgettable exploration of Peru.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The 12-day itinerary kicks off with an airport pick-up and transfer to the hotel on Day 1.

On Day 2, travelers visit the Ballestas Islands, enjoy a vineyard lunch, and explore Huacachina with tubing and sandboarding.

Day 3 starts with a free morning in Arequipa, followed by a city tour.

The next day features a Colca Canyon tour, thermal baths, and a dinner with traditional dances.

On Day 5, the journey continues to Puno, with a stop to observe condors at Cruz del Condor along the way.

Island and Cultural Experiences

After experiencing the Colca Canyon and observing the majestic condors, the journey continues to the serene islands of Lake Titicaca.

First, travelers will visit the Uros and Amantani Islands, where they’ll learn about the traditional way of life and stay overnight on Amantani.

Travelers visit the Uros and Amantani Islands, learning about the traditional way of life and staying overnight on Amantani.

The next day, they’ll explore Taquile Island, known for its vibrant handicraft markets and stunning lake views.

Lunch with a lakeside panorama precedes the transfer to the historic city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

On day 9, travelers will explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the ancient ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

The day will include:

A buffet lunch to refuel for the adventures ahead
A scenic train ride to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu
An evening briefing to prepare for the highlight of the trip – a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu the following day
Plenty of time to soak in the stunning mountain vistas and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region.

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Adventure and Departure

Travelers embark on a memorable hike to the stunning Seven Colours Mountain, Vinicunca, on day 11.

After breakfast in Tintinco, the hike takes approximately 2.5 hours through the breathtaking landscape. Lunch is provided before the return to Cusco.

On the final day, travelers are transferred to the airport or bus station, marking the end of this incredible 12-day journey from Lima to Cusco.

Throughout the tour, all transport, professional guides, entrance fees, meals, activities, and travel insurance are included, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

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Included Services and Activities

The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services and activities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey. Highlights include:

Airport pick-up and transfers
Professional, multilingual tour guides
Entrance fees to all attractions
Diverse meals, including a traditional dinner with folkloric dances
Specialized activities like tubing, sandboarding, and hiking to the Seven Colours Mountain Vinicunca

These inclusions eliminate hassles, allowing travelers to enjoy the rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes of Peru’s southern route.

With the logistics taken care of, guests can simply relax and savor the unforgettable adventure.

Accomodation and Meals

Accommodation and meals play a central role in ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience throughout this 12-day journey. Travelers will enjoy a variety of accommodations, from hotels to homestays, that provide a window into the local way of life. Meals feature regional specialties, from fresh seafood on the coast to hearty Andean dishes in the highlands. The following table outlines the accommodation and meal plans for each destination:

| Destination | Accommodation | Meals |

| — | — | — |

| Lima | 3-star hotel | Breakfast |

| Ica | Eco-lodge | Breakfast, lunch, dinner |

| Arequipa | Boutique hotel | Breakfast |

| Puno | Lakeside guesthouse | Breakfast, lunch, dinner |

| Cusco | Historic inn | Breakfast, lunch |

Booking and Cancellation Policy

One can easily book this 12-day route from Lima to Cusco.

The tour operator offers several flexible booking options:

Free cancellation: Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Reserve now & pay later: Travelers can book their spot without paying anything upfront.
Competitive pricing: The tour costs from €1,300.69 per person.
Live tour guide: Multilingual guides provide commentary in both Spanish and English throughout the journey.

With these convenient booking policies and inclusions, this comprehensive 12-day South American adventure is an appealing choice for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the activities, duration, and destinations based on your interests and travel goals.

Will There Be Any Additional Costs Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

The pricing provided likely covers the major expenses, but there may be some optional activities or personal expenses not mentioned that could incur additional costs. It’s best to check with the tour operator for a full breakdown of included and excluded items.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour includes a live tour guide, suggesting a small to medium-sized group size, likely ranging from 6 to 20 participants.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Visas for This Trip?

For this Peru tour, no special permits or visas are required for most nationalities. Travelers should check their country’s entry requirements and ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the trip dates.

Can I Extend My Stay in Any of the Destinations?

Yes, you can extend your stay in any of the destinations. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust your itinerary and add extra nights at the destinations of your choice for an additional cost.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive 12-day route immerses travelers in Peru’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. From the Ballestas Islands to the Colca Canyon, Uros Islands, and the iconic Machu Picchu, the itinerary offers an unforgettable adventure. With expert guides, diverse meals, and engaging activities, this tour promises an enriching and memorable exploration of Peru’s most iconic destinations.