Lima to Machu Picchu Road Trip with Inca Trail Trek | Season 2025/2026
Lima to Machu Picchu Road Trip with Inca Trail Trek | Season 2025/2026
11 Days Starting in Lima, Peru and ending in Cusco, Peru
Visiting: Lima, Paracas National Reserve, Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Taquile Island, La Raya, Sicuani, Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LMTK20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Wildlife Tours
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Lima to Machu Picchu with this exhilarating road trip and Inca Trail trek. Discover the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru as you explore the Paracas National Reserve, tour a vineyard in Huacachina, and marvel at the ancient Nazca Lines. Experience the charm of Arequipa, the 'white city', and the unique floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca in Puno. The adventure continues with a trek along the iconic Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy guided tours, cultural experiences, and nature excursions, with accommodation and select meals included. This tour promises a perfect blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking scenery, and historical exploration, making it an ideal choice for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Lima
Location: Lima
Accommodation Name: Selina Miraflores (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Hola, welcome to Lima! Hope you’re ready for the 11 epic days that lie ahead of us. You’ll meet your crew this evening in this beautiful city that’s teeming with rich cultural heritage. And following pursuit, we’ll get to know each other over a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, honouring traditional recipes & cooking techniques.
Day 2: Lima > Paracas National Reserve > Huacachina
Location: Lima, Paracas National Reserve, Huacachina
Accommodation Name: Hotel Curasi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s been short ‘n’ sweet, Lima. But we’ve got no time to waste! After breakfast, we’ll drive along the coast towards the rugged cliffs of the Paracas National Reserve.Are. You. Ready? Coastal scenery doesn’t get more stunning than this. We’ll take a tour of Peru's toasty coast, lined with rocky cliffs and bright blue waves. Oh, and if witnessing sea lions, penguins (and possibly even dolphins!) in their natural habitat sounds interesting to you - don’t miss out on a boat tour of the breathtaking Ballestas islands before we head to the final stop of the day. It’s not everyday you get to ride a buggy (or sandboard down the slopes, if that’s your vibe) over the largest sand dunes in all of South America. You’ll be absolutely awestruck. And that’s absolutely normal. Afterwards, we’ll check into our hostel (located right in the middle of a quaint little desert oasis!). Trust us, the sleep’s gonna hit different tonight.
Day 3: Huacachina > Nazca Lines > Overnight Coach To Arequipa
Location: Huacachina, Nazca, Arequipa
Accommodation Name: Overnight Coach
Meals Included: Breakfast
Legend says you can’t leave Peru without trying Pisco Sour. Luckily, a locally-guided Pisco vineyard tour is on the agenda this morning.Thought it couldn’t get any better? Well, the Nazca Lines beg to differ. These mysterious yet impressive 2000-year-old sand imprints have blown away the most brilliant minds. And today, you have the chance to view them from either a tower or a plane (we know which one we’d choose…)Get comfy in your coach. And get ready for even more amazing views!
Day 4: Arequipa
Location: Arequipa
Accommodation Name: Selina Arequipa (or similar)
Morning, travellers. Our home for tonight is the beautiful 'White City'Welcome to Arequipa! Three majestic volcanoes, the vibrant Santa Catalina Monastery and a guided tour of all the city’s highlights await us. Later this evening, we’ll take to the streets once again for a walkabout dinner and grab a well-deserved feast.
Day 5: Arequipa > Puno > Lake Titicaca
Location: Arequipa, Puno, Lake Titicaca
Accommodation Name: Lake Titicaca Homestay (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Time to say goodbye to Arequipa. But not before a quick stop at the Lagunillas Viewpoint. We don’t wanna spoil it for you - but just be prepared for jaw-dropping panoramas (that are 100% going on your Insta feed!). Yet more natural beauty will be dished up this afternoon as we pull into Puno. With no time to waste, we'll hope on a triciclo (just like the locals) and make our way to the port. That's right people, it's Lake Titicaca time! After a short boat ride, we'll find ourselves on the beautiful Uros Islands (AKA the floating islands)! You have the option to take an island reed boat trip before we head out again to meet the Llachon community for a totally wholesome experience. They'll welcome us into their homes for a delicious local dinner and a good night's sleep.
Day 6: Lake Titicaca > Puno
Location: Taquile Island, Puno
Accommodation Name: Hotel Casona Plaza (or similar)
Meals Included: Lunch
Morning travellers! Today we're visiting Taquile Island. We'll hit the lake on a motorboat, meet the locals of this wonderful island, get to know them over lunch and then head back to Puno.Back to our hotel, we’ll spend tonight looking back on the 2 lovely days we spent getting to know the local community. Good thing more culture and history awaits us tomorrow!
Day 7: Puno > Cusco
Location: Puno, La Raya, Sicuani, Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
When you think of iconic, you probably don’t think of bulls. But a visit to Pukara’s museum & its archaeological gems will defo change your mind. Then, hitting the road again we’ll journey through the snow-capped surrounds of La Raya, stopping for lunch in the town of Sicuani. Eagle eyes, this is llama country! So. Keep. Those. Cameras. Ready. Aaand our final leg of the day lands us in Cusco, the hub of ancient Incan culture. This place is a feast for the senses. Get ready for an evening of exploration. And maybe even some after dark antics - Cusco style. IYKYK.
Day 8: Cusco > Ollantaytambo > Aguas Calientes
Location: Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes
Accommodation Name: Andino Macchu Picchu (or similar)
Meals Included: Lunch
Morning, Inca trailers! Today’s the day we begin our hike to Machu Picchu. But first, we’ll catch a train with the crew to our starting point - KM104.Aaand now it begins! Get ready for breathtaking views as we hike our way through the hills and cliffs of the Andes. You made it! Enjoy a night with your crew in this beautiful town. And get some well-deserved rest. Cuz tomorrow's the big day...
Day 9: Aguas Calientes > Machu Picchu > Cusco
Location: Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Excitement levels at an all-time high, the day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here – it’s Machu Picchu time! This is one big old tick off the life goals list, so enjoy every single second of it.Built around 1450 at the height of the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven wonders of the new world. We’ll be treated to a guided tour of the site taking in such wonders as the Temple of the Three Windows and Huayna Picchu (the peak you’ll of seen in every Machu Picchu image ever), and of course you’ll have some alone time to explore the area as only you can do. Take a moment. Take it in. Back on the train to Cusco, we’ll debrief on our once-in-a-lifetime experience before checking back into our hotel for the night.
Day 10: Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Selina Saphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Massage or mountains? How about both? You’ve got a free day to spend away - so soothe those travel-tired limbs with a traditional massage. Or hike the breathtakingly colourful Rainbow Mountain. If not, just take a stroll around town to pick up an alpaca sweater or ten (they are super snuggly). It’s the last full day, so better make the most of it!
Day 11: Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Oh, Peru. What a treat it has been! Grab your final included meal of this trip, and say your bittersweet goodbyes. Who knows? Another epic adventure (maybe in Asia?) might be right around the corner…
What's Included
-
Guided Tours
Guided tours are included in various locations such as Paracas National Reserve, Arequipa, Puno, and Machu Picchu.
-
Transport
Transport includes an overnight coach with 1st class tickets and a train ride to the starting point of the Inca Trail.
-
Cultural Experiences
Cultural experiences include a vineyard tour in Huacachina, exploring Puno's landmarks, and visiting the Uros Islands.
-
Nature Experiences
Nature experiences include a tour of Paracas National Reserve, a visit to Lagunillas Lake, and a boat ride on Lake Titicaca.
What's Not Included
-
Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as sandboarding in Huacachina and hiking Rainbow Mountain are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Entry Fees
Entry fees to certain attractions or sites may not be included and should be checked individually.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Active
- Puno: If you’ve secretly always wanted to hop on one of these, here’s your chance.
- Inca Trail: Embark on the journey of a lifetime. Together we'll spend over 3 hours taking in the enchanting sites of this bucket list trek.
Culture
- Lima: Tonight, you'll travel in an overnight coach with 1st class tickets. Soft & comfy beds. Good times with your crew. Coach rides don't get more amazing than this.
- Puno: Take to the streets as we check out Puno's most popular landmarks with a local guide. We'll hit up the coolest cathedrals, the busiest markets, and even snap shots at every historical hotspot!
- Puno: A humbling opportunity to get to know the local people on these reed islands in Lake Titicaca.
Included Experience
- Paracas: Mother nature has her favourites, and the Paracas National Reserve is one of them. We'll take a tour of this protected natural area guilded with deserts, islands and the beautiful blue ocean.
- Huacachina: Wanna see the magic behind Peru's national drink? This is your chance! We'll spend the afternoon touring a vineyard that produces the juiciest & freshest grapes, learning about its history, and sampling the drink too!
- Nazca: Climbing up 43 ft in the sky, you'll see the fascinating group of geoglyphs called the Nazca Lines from a (really) tall tower. Think: desert artwork of spiders, spirals and a mysterious astronaut-like human.
- Lima: Tonight, you'll travel in an overnight coach with 1st class tickets. Soft & comfy beds. Good times with your crew. Coach rides don't get more amazing than this.
- Arequipa: Get to know the ‘white city’ better. Explore the highlights like Plaza de Armas and take some pics of the incredible backdrop of volcanoes.
- Arequipa: Cameras at the ready! We'll make a quick stop at Lagunillas Lake to enjoy the Andean scenery of lakes, hills and beautiful blue skies.
- Puno: Take to the streets as we check out Puno's most popular landmarks with a local guide. We'll hit up the coolest cathedrals, the busiest markets, and even snap shots at every historical hotspot!
- Puno: If you’ve secretly always wanted to hop on one of these, here’s your chance.
- Puno: Jump on a boat to hop around the reed islands in the world’s highest navigable lake (3657m). And stop off to meet the locals.
- Lake Titicaca: A humbling opportunity to get to know the local people on these reed islands in Lake Titicaca.
- Lake Titicaca: Get to know the locals of this wonderful island over lunch.
- Inca Trail: Embark on the journey of a lifetime. Together we'll spend over 3 hours taking in the enchanting sites of this bucket list trek.
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
Landmarks
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
Nature
- Paracas: Mother nature has her favourites, and the Paracas National Reserve is one of them. We'll take a tour of this protected natural area guilded with deserts, islands and the beautiful blue ocean.
- Arequipa: Cameras at the ready! We'll make a quick stop at Lagunillas Lake to enjoy the Andean scenery of lakes, hills and beautiful blue skies.
- Puno: Jump on a boat to hop around the reed islands in the world’s highest navigable lake (3657m). And stop off to meet the locals.
Mode of Transport
Transport includes an overnight coach with 1st class tickets and a train ride to the starting point of the Inca Trail.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Selina Miraflores, Hotel Curasi, Overnight Coach, Selina Arequipa, Lake Titicaca Homestay, Hotel Casona Plaza, Andino Macchu Picchu, and Selina Saphi.
FAQs
- Mexico City: Which currency should I bring? You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).
- Lake Titicaca: What is the local currency of Peru? The local currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/). ATMs are the easiest and most efficient way to get some cash - which you will need, since credit cards aren’t generally accepted. Your Trip Manager will recommend how much money to withdraw at each destination.
- Iguassu Falls: Is it customary to tip? You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill.
- Iguassu Falls: Is tap water safe to drink? Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip.
- Lima: Can I get access to an ATM when in Peru? It depends on where you’re travelling to. Cities in Argentina and Brazil have lots of ATMs (just be careful of those sneaky fees). But you’re better off carrying cash when visiting rural places.
- Lima: What should I pack for my trip? You’ll be able to buy a lot of things at an affordable price once you arrive. But we’d suggest you bring: • Summer clothes: shorts and lightweight tops essential for keeping cool. • Warm overcoat: there’ll be colder parts of your trip, even in summertime. • Good walking socks & shoes: keep comfy on any terrain. • Sturdy backpack: one you don’t mind getting dusty too! Weather in Peru is unpredictable, so please make sure you bring these items too: - Teva-style sandals (thongs or flip-flop sandals are not suitable for hikes) - Swimming (bathing) suit & towel - Light to medium fleece jacket - Warm clothes for the highlands. - Gore-Tex (or similar) rain jacket - Shorts, T-shirts, Long pants, Long-sleeve shirt, Hat or cap - Sunglasses (preferably polarised) - First aid & medication: aloe vera gel, sunblock or sunscreen of the highest SPF possible, insect repellent, hand sanitiser or gel, moisturising cream, pain relief (e.g. aspirin etc for headaches or muscle pain) motion sickness medication - Water bottle: ideal for hikes in the hot sun and around the jungle. - Plastic Ziplock bags (to protect valuables from drizzle, rain, sand)
- Lima: What is the weather like in Peru? Peru’s climate varies by region - subtropical desert on the coast (AKA la Costa), rainy and tropical in the Amazon forest (AKA la Selva), and temperate in the Andes (AKA la Sierra), with cold peaks. Summers are wet in the mountains and dry on the coast. Annual temperatures range from 83°F (28°C) in the rainforest to 45°F (7°C) in the highlands. So pack accordingly!
- Mexico City: Will I need vaccinations prior to travelling? Please check the CDC’s latest information about travel to Mexico - Mexico - Traveler view | Travelers' Health | CDC. Please also consult your local health clinic and/or doctor for more info.
- Lima: Is there any trip specific information I need to know? Contiki sometimes uses ground handlers or third parties to assist with the full or partial operation of our products. The ground handler for this trip is Encounter Latin America.
- Iguassu Falls: What is the role of the Trip Manager? Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a vineyard tour in Huacachina, exploring Puno's landmarks, and visiting the Uros Islands, providing a rich cultural experience.
-
Are there any guided tours included in the trip?
Yes, guided tours are included in various locations such as Paracas National Reserve, Arequipa, Puno, and Machu Picchu.
-
What kind of nature experiences can I expect on this tour?
Nature experiences include a tour of Paracas National Reserve, a visit to Lagunillas Lake, and a boat ride on Lake Titicaca.
-
What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes 9 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
-
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various locations including Selina Miraflores, Hotel Curasi, Overnight Coach, Selina Arequipa, Lake Titicaca Homestay, Hotel Casona Plaza, Andino Macchu Picchu, and Selina Saphi.
-
Is transport included in the tour?
Yes, transport includes an overnight coach with 1st class tickets and a train ride to the starting point of the Inca Trail.
-
Are there any optional activities not included in the tour package?
Yes, optional activities such as sandboarding in Huacachina and hiking Rainbow Mountain are not included.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
2025 Aug
2025 Nov
2025 Jan
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026
Saturday - Tuesday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025Saturday - Tuesday
Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025Saturday - Tuesday
Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025Saturday - Tuesday
Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 09, 2025Saturday - Tuesday
Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Mar 21, 2026 - Mar 31, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Apr 18, 2026 - Apr 28, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
May 16, 2026 - May 26, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 07, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 21, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Sep 19, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 13, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Oct 31, 2026 - Nov 10, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Dec 26, 2026 - Jan 05, 2027Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions