11-day Expedition through the Southern Andes culturenature
OVERVIEW
Duration: 11 days, 10 nights
Accommodation: 10 first class hotel nights
Availability: All year round
Who is this tour for:
Recommended age: 6-80
Better for families, solo travelers, seniors and couples
Nature
Active
Foodie
Culture
Relax
Embark on an unforgettable South America travel experience, where ancient civilizations and breathtaking natural beauty come together. This travel experience begins in Peru, where we head to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, and explore the lush Sacred Valley and the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu. Cross into Bolivia and arrive in La Paz, a city nestled high in the Andes, followed by a sailing tour across Lake Titicaca. Conclude your adventure in the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats, a surreal and unforgettable finale for a journey filled with cultural depth, natural wonders, and enduring memories.
We bid farewell to Ecuador as we are transferred to the airport for our flight to the vibrant city of Lima.
Upon arrival, we are met by our tour representative and transferred to our hotel. We can take time to settle in and explore at our own pace with a stroll along the Pacific coast or enjoy a delightful moment through the renowned Peruvian cuisine. Please note that hotel check-in is typically available from 2:00 pm.
Day 2
Exploration of Cusco
Peru |
Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. At 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, this charming city welcomes us with its blend of ancient Inca heritage and colonial allure. Upon arrival, we’ll be transported to our hotel to acclimate before an afternoon exploration of the city’s most iconic sites.
In the afternoon, we will visit the Koricancha Temple, an important religious site of the Incas, that once was adorned with walls of solid gold. Next, it’s time to explore the Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial architecture housing an impressive collection of paintings from the School of Arte Cusqueño. Later, we will wander through Sacsayhuamán, a massive fortress built with large stones weighing up to 200 tons. Then, Tambomachay, known as the “Bath of the Inca”, Puca Pucara and the ceremonial site of Qenqo, await our exploration.
Day 3
Urubamba: The Sacred Valley
Peru |
Breakfast, Lunch
Today, we set out on a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region of breathtaking beauty and deep historical significance. Our journey begins in Maras, home to the remarkable terraced salt mines that have been in use since Inca times and create a fantastic contrast against the Andean landscape. Then we visit the enigmatic site of Moray: circular agricultural terraces that showcase the advanced farming knowledge and practices.
Continuing north, Ollantaytambo fortress welcomes us to magnificent stone terraces with spectacular views of the valley. The charming village of Pisac, famous for its traditional open-air market, provides the perfect opportunity to interact with locals, experience Andean culture firsthand, and perhaps take home a unique souvenir.
As the sun sets over the mountains, we carry with us the beauty of this sacred land into a restful night in this breathtaking valley.
Day 4
Machu Picchu: The lost Inca City
Peru |
Breakfast, Lunch
Morning transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the Vistadome train, featuring panoramic windows for breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. As we wind through the Andean mountains, watch the landscape shift from rugged peaks to lush cloud forests, a preview of the world that awaits.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we take a short bus ride up the winding road to Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca civilization. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1911, this UNESCO Site remains one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. With our expert guide, we will explore one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth and its most iconic areas, while unraveling the mysteries behind its construction and purpose.
In the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes to board the Vistadome train to Poroy. From there, a private transfer takes us back to our Cusco hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5
From Peru to Bolivia
Peru |
Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for our flight to Lima. Connection on our own for international flight to La Paz. Upon arrival in Bolivia, our guide will meet us and take us to the hotel to settle in before beginning our city exploration.
Our first stop is Colonial Jaén Street, one of the best-preserved colonial streets in the city. We then continue to Murillo Square, home to the Cathedral, Government Palace, and National Congress. A visit to the Witches’ Market or Mercado de las Brujas offers a fascinating glimpse into Andean mysticism and ancient traditions.
Next, we’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant Mercado Rodríguez, the city’s largest food market, where colorful stalls showcase local produce and enticing aromas fill the air. To wrap up the day, we’ll take in breathtaking views from the city’s cable car and then marvel at the beauty of Moon Valley, where towering pinnacles seem to erode from the hills, creating unique geological formations.
Day 6
Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol Day Tour
Bolivia |
Breakfast, Lunch
Today’s adventure takes us to Lake Titicaca, the largest freshwater lake in South America! Our journey begins with a scenic drive to Copacabana, home to the renowned Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, an important pilgrimage site and the sanctuary of Bolivia’s patron saint.
From Copacabana, we board a catamaran cruise to Isla del Sol, the legendary birthplace of the Inca Empire, where mysticism and spirituality blend harmoniously. Here, we explore iconic landmarks such as the Garden, Escalera del Inca, and Inca Fountain, gaining deeper insight into the Andean cosmovision.
Next, we visit the Inti Wata Cultural Complex, a fascinating center showcasing various aspects of local heritage. Highlights include the Ekako Underground Museum, Traditional Medicine and Totora Raft Construction Centers, an artisan workshop, the Intica Shelter, an Inca agricultural botanical garden, and a sanctuary for Andean camelids.
Afterward, we return to the catamaran and enjoy a delightful meal on board as we sail back to Copacabana. Finally, we transfer back to our hotel in La Paz for a well-deserved rest.
Day 7
Sucre - the Capital of Bolivia
Bolivia |
Breakfast
Our private transfer service will take us to the airport for our flight to Sucre. Upon arrival, we will be transferred to our hotel and settle in. Then we begin our exploration of the city at Plaza de Armas 25 de Mayo, home to the Historical Museum of Freedom, where Bolivia’s independence was signed. Sucre’s main square also houses the Metropolitan Cathedral, an important landmark.
Next, we visit the Museo del Tesoro, where we will learn about the origins, techniques, and artistry of Bolivia’s precious metals and gemstones. We then admire the Indigenous Art Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of textiles from indigenous cultures around Sucre.
At La Recoleta square viewpoint, we take in breathtaking panoramic views while enjoying the local atmosphere, as this is a key gathering place for residents. As the day unfolds, we visit the San Lázaro and Santo Domingo churches, both iconic 17th-century landmarks. After a short stroll through Bolívar Park, we will head back to the hotel.
Day 8
Silver Expedition in Potosi
Bolivia |
Breakfast
Today, we embark on a scenic drive toward Uyuni, with an unmissable stop in Potosí, the legendary Silver City. Upon arrival, we will meet our local guide and begin exploring this iconic mining region.
Wandering through its charming colonial streets, we visit the Casa de la Moneda, the city’s most important museum, which houses historic coin-making machinery used for extracting silver from Cerro Rico. We then admire the exterior of the Potosí Cathedral before heading to San Lorenzo Church, renowned for its intricate Mestizo Baroque façade.
At San Francisco Viewpoint, we take in stunning views of the old town and the world’s largest silver deposit, Cerro Rico de Potosí, a symbol of the region’s mining heritage. Before continuing our journey, we make a brief stop at 10 de Noviembre Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by historic monuments and landmarks. Finally, we resume our drive to enjoy a restful evening at our Uyuni hotel.
Day 9
Uyuni Salt Flats
Bolivia |
Breakfast, Lunch
Waking up in a salt hotel is a unique experience in itself, but even greater “Salt” adventures await today!
A short drive in specialized vehicles takes us to Colchani, a small town where we will witness the salt extraction process firsthand and admire locally crafted salt-based products. We then continue to the Eyes of the Salt, where underground river waters flow beneath the flats and is believed by locals to have medicinal properties. As we journey across this vast, surreal landscape, we’ll be captivated by its mesmerizing geometric patterns, created by salt formations, and the endless white terrain that seems to whisper the story of its origins.
Next, we visit Incahuasi Island, located in the heart of the salt flats. This unique oasis is dotted with towering cacti that reach up to 12 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Continuing north, we explore the Coquesa Mummies, ancient remains preserved in a small cave near Tunupa Volcano, before marveling at the striking stalactites and stalagmites inside Chiquini Cave. As the sun begins to set, we soak in the magic of this extraordinary place before heading back to our hotel, carrying unforgettable memories of Uyuni’s otherworldly landscapes.
Note: From December to March, the Uyuni Salt Flats become a vast natural mirror, reflecting the sky in a mesmerizing spectacle. While this creates an unparalleled visual experience, some attractions may not be fully accessible due to water levels, and itinerary adjustments may be necessary for safety and enjoyment.
Day 10
Tiwanaku Ruins
Bolivia |
Breakfast, Lunch
After a transfer to Joya Andina Airport for our flight back to La Paz, we will meet our guide and be transferred to our hotel. Once settled in, we embark on our final Bolivia tour, exploring the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku.
Located about an hour from La Paz, Tiwanaku is a UNESCO-listed ceremonial center and the cradle of Andean civilization. Our journey begins at the Kalasasaya Temple, where the enigmatic and famous “Gate of the Sun” stands, evoking mystery and anticipation. We then explore the Puma Punku Temple complex, an architectural marvel built from volcanic rock blocks, some towering 7 meters high and weighing over 100 tons. These meticulously carved stones continue to baffle experts, as the advanced techniques used to create their flawless angles, circles, and perfectly smooth surfaces remain unknown.
Our exploration concludes with a visit to the Tiwanaku Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts and instruments from civilizations predating the Inca culture.
Day 11
Bolivia Departure - Conclusion of Trip
Bolivia |
Breakfast
As our adventure comes to an end, we are transferred to the airport for our international flight. Aside from our luggage, we bring remarkable memories of Bolivia and Peru with its marvelous sceneries and culture-riched regions
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Lima, Peru
Day 2: Exploration of Cusco
Day 3: Urubamba: The Sacred Valley
Day 4: Machu Picchu: The lost Inca City
Day 5: From Peru to Bolivia
Day 6: Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol Day Tour
Day 7: Sucre - the Capital of Bolivia
Day 8: Silver Expedition in Potosi
Day 9: Uyuni Salt Flats
Day 10: Tiwanaku Ruins
Day 11: Bolivia Departure - Conclusion of Trip
Itinerary Map
1
Welcome to Lima, Peru
2
Exploration of Cusco
3
Urubamba: The Sacred Valley
4
Machu Picchu: The lost Inca City
5
From Peru to Bolivia
6
Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol Day Tour
7
Sucre - the Capital of Bolivia
8
Silver Expedition in Potosi
9
Uyuni Salt Flats
10
Tiwanaku Ruins
11
Bolivia Departure - Conclusion of Trip
Availability: All year round
Price per person starting from:
Not available
Rates in US Dollars based on double accommodation (2 guests). Valid throughout 2025.
What's included and not:
Rates Include
10 nights of accommodation
Transfers, guided tours, and entrance fees as specified
Meals as described in the itinerary
English-speaking professional guides
Vistadome train OR Machu Picchu Train: Poroy or Ollantaytambo/Aguas Calientes/Poroy subject to confirmation or availability
Not Included
International and domestic flights, unless mentioned in the included list
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses, tips, and additional services
Video/camera fees where applicable
Optional/Extra Tours
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Travel insurance
Tourist and airport taxes where applicable
Additional Information
The itinerary and order of visits are subject to change due to guests’ interests, time constraints, physical endurance, weather, municipal regulations, safety, and/or unforeseen circumstances.
Day 09/Uyuni Salt Flats: Due to flooding during the rainy season, vehicles will only reach the safest flooded areas as a precaution and some sites may not be fully accessible due to water levels.
Day 10: Flights to/from Uyuni operate every day except Saturdays
Hotel-to-airport transfers may be provided with a driver only (no guide).
Special dates like Christmas, New Year’s, Easter, Carnival, highly-demanded seasons and national holidays may have a surcharge.
Experience the Best South America Tours with the Experts
From the stunning landscapes of the Andes and Amazon to historical and modern cities, you can explore ancient civilizations, discover ancient ruins, hike through breathtaking national parks, and savor delicious local cuisine. South America: There is something for everyone!