Compare Southern Peru Highlands Trip (9 Days) by Keteka

Day 1:

Arequipa: You’ll arrive in Arequipa and head to your hotel, which is constructed of traditional volcanic sillar stone, which is where Arequipa`s nickname, the “white city”, comes from. You’ll spend the day getting acquainted with the historic Santa Catalina Monastery, the Inca mummy Juanita, and observing the amazing colonial buildings and enjoying the temperate climate.

Day 2:

Colca Canyon Homestay: Today you will head to Colca Canyon. ON the journey there you will take in amazing views of nearby volcanoes, natural landscapes, and dramatic panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll head to the opposite side of the canyon, where you’ll avoid tourists and encounter charming small villages and local people. This is also where you’ll meet the local family whom you will stay with for the night. You’ll also get a chance to enjoy hot springs, and pre-Hispanic ruins.

Day 3:

Colca to Lake Titicaca: You’ll wake up early and visit Cruz del Condor, where you’ll get the opportunity to observe these enormous birds soaring through the canyon. Then, you’ll head to the shores of Lake Titicaca.

Day 4:

Lake Titicaca Tour: After a wonderful traditional breakfast, you’ll depart on a unique Lake Titicaca tour. You’ll go by boat over the stunningly blue lake in order to reach indigenous culture in secluded areas of the lake`s famous islands, including stops at a remote area of the Uros reed islands, UNESCO World Heritage site Taquile, and the Capachica peninsula.

Day 5:

Altiplano Adventure: Today you’ll set out across the beautiful Peruvian altiplano, with stops at a breathtaking colonial church, a visit with alpacas, and rarely visited, but fascinating catacombs .

Day 6:

Cusco In Depth : You’ll arrive in Cusco, the former center of the Inca Empire, and spend the afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets, local markets, and learning about Cusco`s incredible history from your local guide.

Day 7:

Sacred Valley: You’ll experience the beautiful Sacred Valley. Along the way you’ll stop at interesting Inca ruins, artisan markets and cascading salt ponds. You’ll enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family, and gain true insight into local culture. Later you’ll visit an amazing community-based tourism project, and learn about traditional farming of crops such as potatoes, quinoa, and medicinal plants.

Day 8:

Machu Picchu: Today you`ll visit the famous Machu Picchu, in addition to lesser-known (but equally) amazing spots. After an in-depth tour of the ruins, you’ll climb Huayna Picchu, hike to Inti Punku, or go see the Inca Bridge.

Day 9:

Cusco-Home: At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the Cusco airport for your return flight to Lima, and your flight home.