Best of Peru:

Inca Treasures & Ancient Traditions

Revised and Expanded

On this unforgettable journey, we experience Peru has to offer in just 10 days. Discover colonial monuments built atop ancient ruins in Cusco, the oldest living city in South America, experience the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and uncover the mysteries of Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archaeological sites on Earth. Dive into Peru’s vibrant heritage, from centuries-old indigenous traditions to breathtaking Andean vistas, and much more!

UNESCO World Heritage Sites covered in this tour
1. City of Cusco 2. Historic Centre of Lima
3. Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Tour Information
Duration : 10 days
Minimum : 2 persons
Maximum : 12 persons
Price (From) : US$ 2835
International air not included
Day 01: Arrive Lima
Day 02: Lima
(B)
Day 03: Lima/Cusco (Flight)/Sacred Valley(Drive)
(B)
Day 04: Sacred Valley
(B, L)
Day 05: Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu (Drive)/Cusco (Train)
(B)
Day 06: Cusco
(B)
Day 07: Cusco
(B)
Day 08: Cusco/Puno (Drive)
(B, L)
Day 09: Puno/Juliaca (Drive)/Lima (Flight)
(B, L)
Day 10: Depart Lima
(B)
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Day 01: Arrive Lima

Upon arrival in Lima, we will be welcomed and transferred to our hotel.

Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, Lima was the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty and remains Peru’s largest city. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features colonial architecture, grand squares, and ornate churches. Modern districts like Miraflores and San Isidro offer contemporary attractions, top hotels, and renowned Peruvian cuisine.Arrival in Lima and transfer from the airport to the hotel. Check in time starts from 1400 hrs.

Overnight: Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Lima Miraflores (Standard – Standard Room) / Hotel Casa Andina Premium Miraflores (Superior – Superior Room), Lima (2 nights)

Day 02: Lima

Palacio Arzobispal (Archbishop's Palace) & Cathedral of LimaCathedral of Lima

Today explore Lima* on a sightseeing tour. Our experience starts at the Plaza de Armas with its beautiful buildings, including the government palace, the town hall, the palace of the archbishop and the cathedral, still some of the most important places in town. After that, visit the beautiful San Francisco monastery, which displays the largest collection of religious art in America. The highlight of this convent is a visit to the underground vaults known as “catacumbas” or catacombs.  Proceed through the modern districts of San Isidro and Miraflores to the coastline, enjoying the view over the beaches of Lima and the Pacific Ocean.  Afterwards, enjoy a guided visit to one of Lima’s most noted museums, the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum, which houses the world’s largest private collection of Peruvian Pre-Columbian art. The collection boasts approximately 45,000 objects. Our afternoon is free to sample more of Lima’s attractions. Or, get in touch with Bestway to book the following optional excursion (at additional cost):

Optional: Walking tour of Miraflores (3 hours)

Explore Miraflores, a scenic district with lush parks, hidden gems, and stunning ocean views from the Malecón boardwalk. Your guide will share insights on migration, culture, and socio-economic contrasts while passing key landmarks.

From Larcomar, a cliffside shopping center, take a short public transport ride to Kennedy Park, where you can explore independently or return to the hotel with your guide. (B)

Day 03: Lima/Cusco (Flight)/Sacred Valley(Drive)

Unidentified people on the street of Pisac. It is a Peruvian village in the Sacred Valley. The village is well known for its market every Sunday.

Transfer to the airport for our flight to Cusco (cost not included). Upon arrival, we visit a Chinchero community. Here, we find the remains of the royal hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui, as well as beautiful colonial temples built on Inca’s foundations. However, its main attraction is its Sunday market, originally dedicated to the people of the valley to barter their products. This colourful and lively market still fascinates with its variety of handicrafts and textiles made in true pre-Columbian style. Afterwards, we will be transferred to “El Mirador de Racchi”, where we have a splendid view of the Sacred Valley. Next enjoy a typical lunch at a local house, followed by transfer back to our hotel.

Overnight: Hotel Sonesta Posada del Inca (Standard – Standard Room)/Hotel Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness (Superior – Deluxe Room), Yucay (2 nights)  (B)

Day 04: Sacred Valley

In the morning, explore Ollantaytambo, a typical Inca community. Towering above the town of Ollantaytambo, we will find the Inca fortress of the same name. Steep stone terraces rising from the edge of town lead up to the fortress ruins at the top of the hill. A stone stairway leads up through the terrace walls, allowing visitors to step out on them. One of the best-preserved areas lies north of the Hanan Huacaypata square: an area of 15 blocks of houses built on top of carved stone walls.

After lunch in a typical restaurant, relax for the afternoon, or pre-book one of the below optional excursions through Bestway (at additional cost):

Optional: Moray and Maras (4 hours)

Maras Salt Mines, Peru

Visit Moray, an Andean village known for its circular Inca terraces, likely an agricultural research center. Then, explore the Salt Mines of Maras, where locals harvest salt from nearly 3,000 sun-dried wells—a stunning sight. You can observe and even participate in this ancient practice.

Note: Not recommended during the rainy season (Nov–Apr).

Optional: Trekking to Yucay Terraces (1 hour)

Enjoy an easy hike through Yucay’s mountain-hugging terraces, still used for farming. Follow an ancient Inca water channel, once vital for irrigation. (B, L)

Day 05: Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu (Drive)/Cusco (Train)

Llama in front of ancient inca town of Machu Picchu

Transfer by bus to the train station of Ollantaytambo, where we take a train that travels through the fertile plain of the Urubamba valley and on to Aguas Calientes. From there, small busses drive up the steep mountain to the citadel of Machu Picchu*. Called the Lost City of the Incas, this cultural heritage of mankind is a beautifully located and impressive stone city constructed with a technique incredible for its era and even for present times. Here, stone upon stone has been fitted together perfectly without any cement, with impressive delicacy, exquisite detail and discrimination worthy of the world’s greatest palaces. There are many theories about Machu Picchu, but one thing is for sure - it is one of the most impressive sites in the world. Enjoy a guided visit of the ruins (approx. 2 hours) and return by bus and train to Ollantaytambo station. From here, we are transferred to our hotel in Cusco.

Overnight: Hotel Xima (standard – Standard Room)/Hotel Aranwa Cusco Boutique (Superior – Deluxe Room), Cusco (3 nights) (B)

Day 06: Cusco

Quechua girl, Chincheros, Cusco, Peru

In the morning, we discover Cusco* on a half-day tour. As the oldest continuously inhabited city in South America, Cusco remains a vibrant testament to its Inca heritage while also showcasing magnificent colonial art in its cathedrals and museums. Our experience starts at Plaza de Armas, shown to be the exact centre of the Inca Empire. To protect the historic center of Cusco, vehicles are no longer allowed in this main square. Here we will find the cathedral built on the ruins of the ancient Inca Palace. The cathedral borders on other churches on both sides. Next stop will be the old town, with its magnificent renovated colonial buildings. Then, proceed to Sacsayhuaman, a ruin located approximately 3 kilometers above Cusco. Sacsayhuaman also offers a fabulous view of the city. Afterwards, visit the surrounding ruins.  Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 07: Cusco

Day free to enjoy the many sites and experiences of Cusco and its surrounds. Or, pre-book one of the following exciting excursions through Bestway (at additional cost):

Optional: Excursion to Rainbow Mountain (12 hours)

Excursion to Rainbow Mountain, Cusco, Peru

Start early, between 5:30 and 6:00 AM in the morning, with a drive to Cusipata for breakfast, then continue to Wasi Pata, the starting point of the hike. Trek for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes through the Red Valley and Ausangate mountains, spotting lakes and South American camelids along the way. Spend 30 to 35 minutes at the stunning Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, before returning via the same route. Enjoy lunch in Cusipata before driving back to Cusco, arriving between 4:30 and 5:00 in the afternoon.

Note: This excursion is considered difficult, and it is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude beforehand. The hike covers 10 kilometers, with the highest point reaching 5,040 meters. The best season to visit is between April and November. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Packing List: Sun protection, warm clothes, gloves, hat, raincoat or rainwear, and snacks such as chocolate, sweets, or nuts.

Optional: Cusco After Dark

Cusco After Dark, Cusco, Peru

Discover the city's hidden secrets on a nighttime walking tour, hearing eerie local tales that are not part of standard tours. This experience is available only at sunset, starting at 5:00 in the evening, or after dark at 6:00.

Optional: Cemetery of Cusco

Visit Almudena Cemetery, the oldest in Cusco, and learn about burial rites and fascinating personal stories of past residents, from humorous to tragic. Located next to a hospital and an important asylum for the mentally ill, this site provides insight into Cusco’s history and its people.

Optional: Cusco Off the Beaten Track

Begin at Almudena Cemetery, then walk through the Coripata neighborhood on your way to Plaza de Armas. Along the route, discover hidden local shops selling everything from tombstones to daily necessities, hear stories about the neighborhood, and gain a deeper understanding of life in Cusco. This tour provides a unique perspective on how Cusco has evolved from the capital of the Inca Empire to the city it is today. (B)

Day 08: Cusco/Puno (Drive)

Taquile boys by an arch on Taquile Island overlooking Titicaca Lake, Puno, Peru

A full day bus journey from Cusco to Puno through the Peruvian highland along snow-covered peaks. We pass up to 4,300 meters above sea level and then continue down to Puno, which is right on Lake Titicaca. En route, we will visit the town of Andahuaylillas, the ruins of Racchi and the small town of Pucara. Lunch in a restaurant is included en route. After arrival in Puno, we are transferred to our hotel.

Puno, known as the "Folklore Capital of Peru," boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by Aymara, Quechua, and Spanish influences, reflected in its vibrant traditions, unique architecture, and its stunning location on the shores of the sacred Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake.

Overnight: Hotel Lake Titicaca (Standard – Standard Room)/Hotel GHL Lago Titicaca (Superior – Superior Room), Puno (1 night) (B, L)

Day 09: Puno/Juliaca (Drive)/Lima (Flight)

Totora (hollow reed) boat by a floating man-made totora island inhabitated by the Uro people in Lake Titicaca, near Puno

In the morning, we’ll be picked up from our hotel and taken to Puno’s dock for an unforgettable boat ride to the Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca. The Uros people have been living on these 40 floating islands, made of totora reeds, for over 500 years, preserving ancient traditions that connect them to their ancestors. After exploring the Uros Islands, we’ll continue by boat to Taquile Island, a place untouched by roads or electricity, where the locals still live in harmony with their customs. Known for their exquisite handicrafts, especially the intricate knitting done exclusively by men, Taquile offers a glimpse into a timeless way of life. We’ll visit the main square, where a cooperative shop offers handwoven treasures, before enjoying a traditional lunch on the island. Later, we’ll be transferred to the Juliaca airport for our flight to Lima, where we’ll arrive and head to our hotel, carrying with us memories of a truly remarkable experience.

Overnight: Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Lima Miraflores (Standard – Standard Room) / Hotel Casa Andina Premium Miraflores (Superior – Superior Room), Lima (1 night) (B, L)

Day 10: Depart Lima

Today, our exciting adventure through Peru comes to an end as we are transferred to the airport in time for our departure flight. Check out time from our hotel is 1100 hrs. Alternatively, extend your adventure with further exploration of Peru, or connections to Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and beyond! (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

We accept payments in US$, CA$ as well as in other convertible currencies like EUR, AUD and GBP. Tour prices have been costed in US$. CA$ price shown below is an indicative amount reached at by using the conversion rate at the time of web posting and will be applicable if there is no change in the conversion rate. Should the currency conversion rate change, the US$ pricing will prevail. Bestway Tours & Safaris offers a conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please click here

Stay tuned for future dates! If you want to be the first ones to know click here
2025 Per Person on
Twin Sharing
Single Room
Supplement
Departure(s)
May 9 & 30; Jul 11; Aug 8 & 22; Sep 12; Oct 3 & 24; Nov 14    
Standard (3/4-star) US$ 2835 US$ 430
Superior (4/5-star) US$ 3172 US$ 750
Stay tuned for future dates! If you want to be the first ones to know click here
2025 Per Person on
Twin Sharing
Single Room
Supplement
Departure(s)
May 9 & 30; Jul 11; Aug 8 & 22; Sep 12; Oct 3 & 24; Nov 14    
Standard (3/4-star) CA$ 4080 CA$ 619
Superior (4/5-star) CA$ 4565 CA$ 1080
Within tour flights Per person in
Economy Class
Lima/Cusco; Juliaca/Lima  Approx.US$ 679
Private Tour Option
This tour is also available on private basis for your preferred dates at a supplement. Please contact us for details.

Notes

Please contact us for any other programs of Peru or a tour that combines Peru with other countries in South America.
Important Information for Machu Picchu
For the train ride to/from Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes, only one 5 kg piece of hand luggage is allowed. For the visit to Machu Picchu, sturdy shoes are recommended as the trails can be slippery and lack handrails. Walking sticks must have rubber tips to be permitted inside the Sanctuary.
When entering Machu Picchu Sanctuary, glass, plastic bottles, and food are not allowed. Large backpacks (over 20 liters) must be stored at the entrance for an additional fee.
To protect the ruins, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are limited each day. Generally, tickets are available if purchased in advance. If you plan to visit for a second day, securing tickets ahead of time is recommended, if not already included in your tour. Full names, passport numbers, nationality, and dates of birth of all passengers are required at least 60 days before departure to purchase tickets. Tickets are valid only for the date purchased and are non-refundable. A visit typically lasts around 2.5 hours, and there are no toilets within the citadel. Re-entry is not allowed once you exit.

Inclusions


Tour Price Includes
  • 9 Nights' accommodation as mentioned or similar, including hotel taxes
  • 12 Meals as mentioned (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
  • All sightseeing and transfers on seat-in-coach basis
  • Services of local English speaking guides
  • Entrance fees to museums and sites included in the itinerary
  • Train ticket mentioned
  • Shared bus from Cusco to Puno and excursion Uros & Taquile shared with other travellers beyond tour group
Not Included
  • International airfares
  • Domestic airfares (within tour itinerary Lima/Cusco; Juliaca/Lima, approx. US$ 679 per person in Economy Class)
  • Insurance/visas
  • Tips/gratuities

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 12 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

Inquire About this Trip

Tour Application Form

Travel inspiration right in your inbox

Sign up for our Bestway Club newsletter and be the first to know about special discounts, new tours and travel updates!