WhyYou’ll Love This Tour
Adrenaline Meets Luxury
Skylodges, cliffside challenges & via ferrata for unforgettable thrills.
Taste & Explore Peru
Cooking classes, Pachamanca feasts & mystical archaeological sites.
Epic Landscapes, Real Experiences
Salt mines, Rainbow Mountain & the unqiue Salkantay trail.
Overview
Experience the most thrilling heights of the Andes with our signature 12-day Peru adventure. This itinerary is meticulously crafted for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers who want to combine the cultural majesty of Machu Picchu with unique experiences like the Skylodge Adventure Suites. If you’re comparing Peru tours around 10 days, this extended 12-day itinerary offers additional time for unforgettable adventure experiences while maintaining a comfortable pace. Built on our core philosophy of “German precision, Peruvian passion,” we manage every logistical detail with total reliability. Backed by over 1,500+ 5-star reviews, this 12 day Peru tour ensures you discover the heart of the country through high-altitude thrills and professional safety standards.
High-Altitude Thrills: The Skylodge Adventure Suites & Via Ferrata
The highlight of your journey begins in the Sacred Valley, where you will sleep in a hanging capsule in Peru. This Skylodge Adventure Suites and Machu Picchu tour is designed for those who want to wake up to a 300-degree view of the valley floor. To reach your suite, you will climb the Via Ferrata and zipline in the Sacred Valley, an exhilarating experience managed with “German precision” safety protocols. As you watch the sunset from your transparent pod, our guides share their “Peruvian passion” for the local geography, providing an authentic experience that few travelers ever get to witness.
Andean Exploration: Avoiding the Crowds in the Sacred Valley
Beyond the adrenaline, your 12-day Peru adventure Skylodge tour, which is one of our most popular adventure trips in Peru, includes deep cultural immersion. We use optimized itineraries to visit the traditional markets and Incan ruins of the Sacred Valley during quieter hours, helping you avoid the crowds. Because our journeys are 100% customizable tours, we can include specialized activities like stargazing in the Sacred Valley, Peru, or private textile workshops. This strategic planning ensures your Peru 12 day itinerary balances the physical challenge of the mountains with the serene beauty of the Andean highlands.
The Spiritual Zenith: Machu Picchu & Cusco Discovery
No Peru adventure vacation is complete without a visit to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. We coordinate all train and entry logistics with total precision, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of the ruins. Following your mountain exploration, you will return to the historic city of Cusco to discover its colonial mastery and Incan foundations. This segment of the 12 days in Peru itinerary is designed to provide maximum clarity and impact, capturing the true essence of the Incan civilization from a unique, high-altitude perspective.
Professional Planning: Designing Your 12-Day Peru Itinerary
When deciding on an adventure vacation in Peru, choosing a reliable partner is essential for navigating the complex logistics of the Andes Mountains tours. Our 12 day Peru itinerary provides a well-paced immersion that captures the absolute best of the region, from the hanging capsules to the stone temples. Every aspect of our planning reflects a commitment to excellence, ensuring your luxury adventure itinerary Peru 12 days is as safe as it is inspiring. In all of our two-week Peru itineraries, you can trust in our proven track record to deliver a flawlessly executed journey that perfectly balances thrill and culture.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1 : Arrival in Lima
- Day 2 : Lima Half-Day City & Gourmet Food Tour
- Day 3 : Flight to Cusco & Half-Day City Tour
- Day 4 : Maras, Moray & Community Visit
- Day 5 : ATV Adventure at Huaypo, Via Ferrata & Skylodge Experience
- Day 6 : Zipline Adventure, Pachamanca Feast & Train to Machu Picchu
- Day 7 : Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco
- Day 8 : Hike Humantay Lake & Stay at Skydomes
- Day 9 : Salkantay Hike & Return to Cusco
- Day 10 : Cusco City Tour or Cooking Class
- Day 11 : Rainbow Mountain
- Day 12 : Airport Transfer & Farewell
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Lima
Today’s Highlight:Arrive in Lima and settle into your hotel or explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Welcome to Peru! Arrive in Lima, where our private driver will take you directly to your hotel. You can either rest or join an optional city tour to explore Lima’s historic center and vibrant neighborhoods.
No meals included.
Overnight in Lima
Optional: Add our Lima half-day city tour and explore the city’s beautiful neighborhoods, local markets and more.
Day 2 : Lima Half-Day City & Gourmet Food Tour
Today’s Highlight:Discover Lima’s colonial charm and indulge in a gourmet tasting of Peru’s iconic flavors.
Start your Peruvian adventure with a half-day guided city tour exploring Lima’s historic center, including the Plaza Mayor, colonial architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Afterwards, indulge in a gourmet food tour, tasting iconic Peruvian dishes and learning more about the fascinating cuisine.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Lima
Day 3 : Flight to Cusco & Half-Day City Tour
Today’s Highlight:Fly to Cusco and explore its Inca temples, bustling markets, and colorful streets.
Take an early morning flight from Lima to Cusco to allow time to acclimate to the altitude. After settling in, enjoy a delicious traditional Peruvian lunch at a local restaurant.
Later in the afternoon, embark on a private guided half-day city tour, exploring iconic sites such as the sacred Qoricancha temple, the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress, the vibrant San Pedro market, and the artistic San Blas neighborhood.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 4 : Maras, Moray & Community Visit
Today’s Highlight:Marvel at Maras and Moray, then experience authentic Andean culture in a local village.
Venture deep into the Sacred Valley to marvel at the mysterious circular agricultural terraces of Moray, an ingenious Incan site that still captivates visitors with its beauty and history. Then explore the breathtaking salt terraces of Maras, a sparkling patchwork of thousands of salt pools glistening in the sunlight.
Finish your day with an authentic cultural experience in a local Andean community, where you’ll engage in traditional activities like agricultural lessons and a weaving class, creating meaningful memories and a deeper connection to the region’s living heritage.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Sacred Valley
Day 5 : ATV Adventure at Huaypo, Via Ferrata & Skylodge Experience
Today’s Highlight:Ride ATVs through the Sacred Valley and spend a night under the stars at the Skylodge.
Kick off your day with an exhilarating ATV ride around stunning Huaypo Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and sparkling waters of the Sacred Valley. Next, challenge yourself with a thrilling via ferrata climb up a sheer cliffside, guided by experts and equipped with safety gear. As you ascend, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, lakes, and distant mountains stretching endlessly.
Your adventure ends with an unforgettable overnight stay at the Skylodge,a transparent capsule perched 400 meters (over 1,300 feet) above the valley floor. Fall asleep beneath the stars with an unobstructed view of the Sacred Valley glowing below, a truly unique experience combining excitement, serenity and stunning natural beauty.
Breakfast & Dinner picnic included.
Overnight at Skylodge
Day 6 : Zipline Adventure, Pachamanca Feast & Train to Machu Picchu
Today’s Highlight:Soar above the valley by zipline, savor a Pachamanca feast, and travel by train to Machu Picchu.
Start your day with an exhilarating zipline ride from the Skylodge, soaring high above the breathtaking Sacred Valley and taking in spectacular views of the surrounding Andes.
After your adventure, enjoy an authentic Pachamanca lunch, a traditional Andean feast where meats and vegetables are slow-cooked underground with hot stones, offering a rich and flavorful taste of local heritage.
In the afternoon, board the Vistadome observatory train to Aguas Calientes, relaxing as you glide through stunning mountain scenery on your way to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Day 7 : Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco
Today’s Highlight:Explore Machu Picchu with your private guide before returning to Cusco in comfort.
Rise early to visit the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu with yourprivate guide for a deep and immersive 2.5-3 hour tour. Explore the site’s most iconic temples, terraces, and hidden corners while learning more about the fascinating history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this ancient Inca masterpiece, all at your own pace.
After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo, where your private transfer will be waiting to take you to Cusco.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 8 : Hike Humantay Lake & Stay at Skydomes
Today’s Highlight:Hike to turquoise Humantay Lake and unwind in the mountain serenity of your Skydome stay.
Start your day with a beautiful hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, where crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, a true Andean gem waiting to be discovered.
In the afternoon, arrive at your exclusive Skydomes accommodation, futuristic bubble tents tucked into the mountainside. Spend the night surrounded by nature, with front-row views of the stars and complete mountain serenity.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included.
Overnight at Skydomes
Day 9 : Salkantay Hike & Return to Cusco
Today’s Highlight:Trek along the Salkantay Trail, surrounded by soaring peaks and breathtaking views.
Embark on a stunning half-day hike along the legendary Salkantay Trail, where towering snow-capped peaks watch over you and vibrant valleys unfold with lush greenery. Feel the fresh mountain breeze and soak in the breathtaking scenery that makes this trek truly unforgettable.
After this soul-refreshing journey through nature’s grandeur, you’ll return to the vibrant city of Cusco, carrying memories of the Andes that will stay with you forever.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 10 : Cusco City Tour or Cooking Class
Today’s Highlight:Choose between exploring Cusco’s cultural gems or mastering Peruvian dishes with a local chef.
On this day, you can choose the experience that suits you best, either immerse yourself in the rich culture of Cusco or indulge your culinary curiosity.
If you opt for a cultural half-day tour, you will explore fascinating sites in and outside Cusco, including Sacsayhuamán, Qoricancha, the vibrant San Pedro Market and the charming San Blas neighborhood. Alternatively, participate in a hands-on cooking class with a local Peruvian chef. You will learn to prepare classic dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and a traditional Peruvian cocktail, an essential experience for any food enthusiast.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 11 : Rainbow Mountain
Today’s Highlight:Hike the colorful slopes of Vinicunca before the crowds and enjoy sweeping Andean views.
Rise early for an unforgettable adventure to the iconic Rainbow Mountain, known for its vibrant, otherworldly colors. With our carefully crafted route, you’ll reach the summit before the crowds, giving you time to truly connect with the landscape and soak in the serenity.
Enjoy a more accessible path that offers breathtaking views, passing herds of alpacas and llamas along the way.
Breakfast & Lunch included.
Overnight in Cusco
Day 12 : Airport Transfer & Farewell
Today’s Highlight:Enjoy a peaceful morning before your transfer, carrying home Peru’s spirit and memories.
After breakfast, enjoy some free time to shop or relax before your private transfer to the airport for your departure. Say farewell to Peru, taking home unforgettable memories.
Breakfast included.
- Included
- Airport transfers with our staff accompanying you
- All tours stated in the itinerary with fluent English speaking licensed local guides
- Tours with all entrance tickets
- Hotels with breakfast if selected
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary above (vegan and vegetarian options available). We eat in some of the best restaurants in the area.
- Trekking pole, first aid kit and oxygen for the hikes
- Welcome kit and virtual support during your trip
- Not Included
- Domestic and international flights (domestic flights will be added in the quote if desired)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Services not mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals not specified
- Travel insurance
Prices
Based on double/triple occupancy and the hotels mentioned below or similar ones in the same category.
- Service
- Comfortable 3-start hotels
- Standard train to Machu Picchu
- Shared/private transfers
- Daily breakfast
- Service
- Upgraded 4-start hotels
- Vistadome train to Machu Picchu
- More comfortable transport
- Restaurant upgrades
- Service
- Luxury 5-start hotels Ico
- Hiram Bingham train (optional)
- VIP private transfers
- Exclusive experiences
Hotels
JW Marriott
- 250 m from the oceanfront
JW Marriott Miraflores offers ocean-view rooms, excellent dining, and a well-equipped gym, in a prime waterfront location beside Larcomar for an upscale stay.
Souma Miraflores
- 650 m from Parque Kennedy
Souma Miraflores offers modern comfort near Parque Kennedy and Larcomar, with air-conditioned rooms, outdoor pool, fitness center, rooftop terrace, restaurant, and convenient access to Lima’s highlights.
Lima 18 Boutique Hotel
- Steps from Huaca Pucllana
Lima 18 Boutique offers charming, intimate accommodation in the heart of Miraflores, with just 11 air-conditioned rooms featuring curated artwork and modern touches, a serene garden terrace, complimentary à la carte breakfast, and attentive personalized service — all within walking distance of Parque Kennedy, Huaca Pucllana, and Larcomar.
Palacio del Inka Luxury Collection
- 500 m from Plaza de Armas (main square)
Palacio del Inka, beside the Koricancha Temple, is a luxury hotel built on original Inca foundations, featuring stunning colonial architecture and guided historical tours.
Novotel
- 350 m from Plaza de Armas (main Square)
Novotel Cusco, set in a restored 16th-century building just three blocks from the main square, offers modern comfort, local charm, and a heated courtyard for relaxing.
Rumi Punku
- 300 m away from Plaza de Armas (main square)
Hotel Rumi Punku is a charming 3-star stay just 300m from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, offering cozy rooms with private bathrooms and cable TV, free WiFi, and a traditional courtyard garden.
Tambo Del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
- Next to Urubamba River
Tambo del Inka is a luxury Sacred Valley resort with a private train station to Machu Picchu, elegant rooms with local details, a spa, pool, and stunning mountain views.
Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado
- 11 km from Ollantaytambo
Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley offers mountain views near Ollantaytambo, with a spa, outdoor activities, gardens, playgrounds, and an observatory for relaxed stargazing.
Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado
- 11 km to Ollantaytambo
This hotel offers 36 spacious rooms with warm wood and stone accents, lush gardens, Andean mountain views, and an on-site sauna for a relaxing retreat.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
- 250 m from the oceanfront
Inkaterra El Pueblo sits at the foot of Machu Picchu near the train station, offering upscale comfort, lush nature, and an immersive stay for your visit.
Casa del Sol Machu Picchu
- Next to train station
Casa del Sol Machu Picchu is a luxury retreat near the train station, with elegant rooms, modern comforts, private bathrooms, mini-bars, satellite TV, luggage storage, and attentive concierge service.
Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu
- Next to train station
Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu offers 53 cozy rooms in central Aguas Calientes, with mountain and river views – an ideal, comfortable stay before visiting Machu Picchu.
