Southern Horizons – 8 Days in Lima, Huaraz, and Machu Picchu
About the tour
"Horizontes del Sur " is the perfect trip for those who want to experience Peru through a compact yet immersive journey that combines the coast, high mountains, and the legacy of the Inca Empire. Over the course of 8 days , you’ll explore Lima, Huaraz, and Cusco.
8 DAYS - 7 NIGHTS
BILINGUAL CERTIFICATE GUIDE
TICKETS
INCLUDES ALL TRANSPORTATION
Itinerary
- Upon your arrival in Lima, our representative will be waiting for you at the airport to give you a warm welcome and accompany you on a comfortable and safe transfer to your hotel.
📍 Transfer to the hotel 🏨: We'll head to your accommodations so you can settle in and enjoy a well-deserved rest after your trip.
- Accommodations in Lima: You'll be able to rest and get ready for the start of this incredible journey through Peru.
- We'll kick off this incredible adventure with a pickup from your hotel in Lima between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., as we head south through Peru to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Paracas and Ica.
📍 Ballestas Islands – Paracas: We’ll take a boat tour of the famous Ballestas Islands, where you’ll be able to observe marine life, rock formations, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
📍 Traditional Vineyard – Ica: We’ll continue on to a traditional vineyard, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and a wine and pisco tasting.
📍 Huacachina Dunes – Buggy Ride: In the afternoon, the adventure begins with an exciting buggy ride through the enormous Huacachina dunes, where you’ll enjoy incredible views and plenty of adrenaline.
📍 Sandboarding in the Desert: We’ll stop to go sandboarding, gliding over the sand amidst spectacular desert landscapes.
📍 Sunset in Huacachina 🌅: To wrap up the day, we’ll head to the top of the dunes to watch the spectacular sunset over the Huacachina Desert.
- In the afternoon, we will return to the city of Ica.
- We will board a tour bus to Lima (estimated arrival time: 10:00 p.m.), arriving at the Lima bus terminal, where a shuttle will be waiting to take us to the hotel.
- A Night in Lima
- In the afternoon, around 2:00 p.m., we'll begin our city tour of Lima, discovering the contrast between the capital's modernity and its rich historical and colonial heritage.
📍 Miraflores Tourist District 🌊: We’ll explore its main attractions and lookout points overlooking the Pacific Ocean, which are perfect for enjoying breathtaking panoramic views.
📍 Historic Center of Lima 🏛️: We’ll explore its main streets, plazas, and traditional wooden balconies and colonial-era facades, which reflect the city’s important historical legacy.
📍 San Francisco Convent ⛪: We’ll visit this iconic religious complex, renowned for its catacombs and impressive Baroque architecture.
- Return to the hotel: Around 6:30 p.m., we will return to the hotel to pick up our belongings and get ready to continue our trip.
📍 Transfer to the bus terminal 🚌: Afterward, our team will pick you up at the hotel and take you to the bus terminal.
📍 Lima–Huaraz Trip: At 10:00 p.m., we’ll board the tour bus bound for Huaraz, where we’ll travel overnight.
- Overnight Bus Ride 🚌: We'll enjoy an overnight trip to Huaraz as we get ready to continue our adventure through the Cordillera Blanca.
- We will arrive in the beautiful city of Huaraz (3,052 m above sea level) around 6:00 a.m., where our team will warmly welcome you and take you to your hotel. There, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast and get ready for a day filled with nature and high-mountain scenery.
- At 8:30 a.m., we will begin our journey to the picturesque town of Caraz, the starting point for our trip to the majestic Laguna Parón (4,185 m above sea level), one of the greatest natural wonders of the Cordillera Blanca.
📍 Caraz 🏔️: We’ll explore this charming Andean village, from where we’ll continue on to Laguna Parón, passing through valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional communities.
📍 Laguna Parón 💧: We’ll be captivated by its turquoise waters and the breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Artesonraju, Pirámide de Garcilaso, and Pisco.
📍 Free time: We’ll have time to walk, take photos, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca.
- Return to Huaraz: In the afternoon, we'll begin our return to Huaraz to rest and relax after a day of adventure among mountains and glaciers.
- Accommodations in Huaraz 🏨: Arrival at the hotel and overnight stay in Huaraz.
- We'll leave the hotel at 5:00 a. m. Along the way, we'll enjoy a picnic breakfast before arriving in Cebollapampa, where our adventure will begin.
📍 Cebollapampa 🏔️: starting point for the hike to Laguna 69, surrounded by breathtaking scenery of the Cordillera Blanca.
📍 Laguna 69 💧: We’ll hike uphill for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, enjoying waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and spectacular scenery until we reach the deep blue waters of one of Peru’s most famous lakes.
📍 Llanganuco Lakes (3,850 m a.s.l.) 🏔️: We’ll continue our journey to this beautiful group of lakes, where you can take an optional boat ride (not included).
- Return to Huaraz: Around 7:00 p.m., we'll return to Huaraz to pick up our belongings and get ready to continue our trip.
📍 Huaraz–Lima Trip 🚌: In the evening, at 9:45 p.m., we'll board the tour bus bound for Lima.
- Arrival in Lima: approximately at 6:30 a.m. the following day, when we will be transferred to the hotel.
- Overnight on the bus: We’ll travel by bus from Huaraz to Lima, bringing our adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca to a close.
- We'll head to the Lima airport early ✈️ to board our flight to Cusco.
- Upon arrival, our team will give us a warm welcome and accompany us on the transfer to the hotel, where we will check in.
📍 Free morning in Cusco: We’ll have time to rest and acclimate to the city’s altitude — 3,399 m above sea level—and enjoy its charms at our own pace.
- In the afternoon, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., we'll begin the Cusco City Tour, visiting the main historical and archaeological attractions of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.
📍 Temple of the Sun – Qoricancha ☀️: We’ll visit one of the most important sites in the Tawantinsuyo, considered one of the main Inca ceremonial centers.
📍 Sacsayhuamán 🏔️: We’ll explore this impressive ceremonial fortress, famous for its enormous stone blocks and extraordinary architecture.
📍 Q’enqo: We’ll explore this ancient ceremonial center linked to important rituals of the Inca tradition.
📍 Puka Pukara: We’ll visit this ancient structure, believed to have served as a checkpoint and watchtower on the outskirts of Cusco.
📍 Tambomachay 💧: We’ll explore this archaeological site, known for its fountains and water channels, which are associated with ancient Inca rituals.
- End of the City Tour: Around 6:00 p.m., we will wrap up our tour and return to Cusco.
- Accommodations in Cusco 🏨: Arrival at the hotel to rest and continue our adventure through Peru.
- We'll start the day with breakfast at the hotel. The day will begin early, according to the assigned train schedule.
📍 Cusco – Ollantaytambo 🚐: We’ll travel from Cusco to Ollantaytambo—a trip that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes—while enjoying the scenery of the Sacred Valley.
📍 Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes Train 🚆: We’ll board the tourist train bound for Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), traveling through beautiful Andean landscapes.
📍 Machu Picchu 🏔️: Upon arrival, we’ll board the bus to the Inca citadel, enjoying the views of mountains, mist, and lush vegetation. The itinerary is subject to availability.
📍 Private Guided Tour: Once at the citadel, we’ll take a private guided tour, visiting Machu Picchu’s most iconic temples, agricultural terraces, and natural viewpoints.
📍 Free time: We’ll have free time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the site at our own pace.
📍 Return to Aguas Calientes: Afterward, we’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll enjoy a local lunch before continuing our journey.
📍 Aguas Calientes–Ollantaytambo Train 🚆: We’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo at the scheduled time.
📍 Ollantaytambo–Cusco 🚐: Upon arrival, we’ll take a private shuttle to Cusco, where we’ll wrap up this unforgettable day.
Accommodations in Cusco 🏨: Arrival at the hotel and overnight stay in Cusco.
- We'll leave between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. for Cusipata. On the way, we'll enjoy breakfast before continuing on to the trailhead.
📍 Mountain of Seven Colors – Vinicunca (5,036 m above sea level) 🌈: We’ll begin our hike toward one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Andes, known for its reddish, turquoise, and golden hues.
📍 Free time: Upon arrival, we’ll have free time to take in the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
- Return to Cusipata: After visiting the Mountain of Seven Colors, we will begin our descent toward Cusipata.
📍 Buffet lunch 🍽️: We'll enjoy a buffet lunch to recharge our batteries.
- Return to Cusco: Afterward, we will begin our return trip to Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 p. m.
📍 Airport Transfer ✈️: Depending on your flight schedule, we will provide transportation to the airport so you can continue your journey.
- End of our services: We will conclude this unforgettable experience, taking with us memories of Peru’s landscapes, culture, history, and mountains.
INCLUDES
Transfers and Transportation
● Airport–hotel–airport transfers in Lima and Cusco.
● Transportation for all tours and excursions.
● Ollantaytambo–Aguas Calientes–Ollantaytambo tourist train tickets.
● Buses to and from Machu Picchu.
● Interprovincial tourist buses: Lima–Huaraz–Lima (sleeper bus).
Tickets
● Admission to all attractions listed in the itinerary:
● Lima (City Tour and Catacombs),
● Cusco (Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, Tambomachay),
● Machu Picchu,
● Mountain of Seven Colors.
Food
● Daily breakfasts at hotels or along the route.
● Lunches included at: Ica (Huacachina), Laguna Parón (picnic), Laguna Llanganuco (picnic), Laguna 69 (picnic), Machu Picchu, and the Mountain of Colors.
Activities and Experiences
● City tours of Lima and Cusco with a professional guide.
● Excursion to the Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis (sandboarding and sand tubes included).
● Guided tour of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
● Guided hikes to Laguna 69, Laguna Llanganuco, Laguna Parón, and the Mountain of Seven Colors.
Additional Services
● Professional Spanish-speaking guide on all tours.
● Trekking poles, a basic first-aid kit, and oxygen for high-altitude tours.
● Round-the-clock assistance throughout the trip.
NOT INCLUDED
Flights
- International airline tickets (country of origin – Peru – country of return).
- Domestic flights (Lima–Cusco–Lima).
Additional food
- Dinners and lunches not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
- Alcoholic beverages or personal snacks during the tours.
Insurance and personal expenses
- Travel insurance or international medical assistance.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff.
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.).
Optional activities
- Vistadome Train (USD 40 one-way / USD 70 round-trip).
- Hike up Waynapicchu Mountain (USD 60).
Not recommended for people who suffer from vertigo or have breathing difficulties.
Other positions
- Bank fees or transfer fees for international payments.
- Expenses not listed as included in the itinerary.
- Hotels
- Original passport valid for at least 7 months. This is required for entry; without this document, you will not be able to take the tour.
- Full sun protection: a cap or hat, sunglasses, andsunscreen. The Andean sun is intense even on cloudy days.
- Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes. Ideal for walking safely on uneven terrain.
- A small backpack with the essentials:water, snacks like candy, cookies, chocolate, or nuts to keep your energy up during the hike.
- A camera or cell phone with enough battery life. You don't want to miss the best views or the most special moments of your trip.
Southern Horizons – 8 Days in Lima, Huaraz, Machu Picchu, and the Mountain of Colors
Experience the essence of Peru on a tour that combines history, culture, and nature. Explore the heart of the Inca Empire, from Cusco to Machu Picchu, with the comfort and security of an all-inclusive service. This tour is available every day of the year, with guaranteed departures for both group and private tours.
- Price
Group rate:US$829.00 per person
- Easy booking:
Secure your spot with a deposit of 20% of the total amount.
- Payment of the balance:
You can pay the remaining 80% upon arrival by:
- Credit or debit card
- PayPal
- Cash (soles or dollars)
- Pix
Access to Machu Picchu is organized through three official routes:
- Tour 1: Panoramic View (Classic Photo)
- Tour 2: The most comprehensive tour (panoramic views + temples)
- Tour 3: Temple Tour (no panoramic views)
Availability is limited and subject to demand, so we recommend booking in advance.
If we are unable to find availability for your travel dates, Andean Peru Exploor will assist you in purchasing your ticket in person in Aguas Calientes. This process involves waiting in line at the official ticket office, always accompanied by our team.
Important: This option is subject to daily availability and does not guarantee admission.
What Our Customers Say
EXCELLENT
Based on 100 reviews
Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Cristiane F VVerified
Choosing this agency made all the difference on our trip. I booked all my transportation and tours for my trip to Peru through them—from transfers from the airports in Lima and Cusco to tours like the Lima City Tour, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Everyone who assisted us was very professional. Starting with all the attention and tips from Yolanda, who always responded to me on WhatsApp, and including the drivers and guides. They were always on time and respectful of our pace. We did everything via private transfers and private tours. Our choice of agency certainly contributed greatly to making this trip a memorable one for us. Thank you once again.Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Alejandra BVerified
Highly recommended experience—it was perfect An incredible experience! The agency took care of absolutely everything and made the trip run like clockwork. They were always available to answer our questions and very attentive to ensuring that everything went according to plan. It was truly perfect—they took care of every detail, and everyone who worked with them was extremely punctual, friendly, and helpful. If we were to return, we would definitely choose Andean Perú again. The hotels they selected were incredible and very well located; the transfers were always on time; the lunches were delicious; and, overall, everything was perfectly organized. Plus, they included many thoughtful touches that made the experience even more special. 100% recommended!Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Carla VVerified
Wonderful agency! I highly recommend Andean Peru Exploor. They were incredibly attentive and kind, and managed to get last-minute tickets to Machu Picchu for me and my family (other agencies didn't have any), and everything was wonderful—from the transportation to the incredible guide, and they even gave us a super cute little gift. I would definitely take the same tour with the same agency again—I loved it!!!Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Joe TVerified
Great Day at Machu Picchu! This was a fantastic experience. Andean Peru Explorer communicated frequently and well in advance, was able to secure the tour we wanted and a slightly later departure time so we didn’t have to leave Cusco at 3:00 a.m. Our morning pickup was fantastic, the train was great (I definitely recommend the Vistadome), and the tour was informative, exciting, and professional. The only hiccup was that we had to wait a few minutes for our guide, since Machu Picchu only allows guides in once every 3 hours, and our guide had already led one tour that morning.Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Caio CVerified
The best experience The best company in terms of organization and punctuality, and the guides are perfect. I will definitely use their services again. As for the experience at Machu Picchu, the guide was exceptional, attentive, and very clear in his explanations—I highly recommend them.Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Aline SVerified
Excellent I can’t thank Peru Andean Exploor enough for all their care, attention to safety, and, above all, their impeccable organization. They were always very attentive, providing information in advance, and extremely punctual and clear with schedules and instructions. The hotels they chose and the restaurant reservations were excellent, and I can’t help but mention the guides: everyone who took care of us was friendly, attentive, and made our trip even more special and enchanting, beyond the beauty of the gorgeous Inca city. If I could give a thousand stars, I would do so without a second thought! If you want to explore Cusco and enjoy an experience with top-notch service, I recommend Peru Andean Exploor without hesitation!Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Mariane SVerified
Excellent A wonderful experience—everything went perfectly, and I’ll cherish this memory for the rest of my life. I highly recommend Andean’s services.Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Gavrilo KVerified
Great company I was very skeptical when I received the offer because it was 20–30% cheaper than the competition, but I found good reviews and decided to go with them. Absolutely everything went perfectly—even better than expected. I led a group of 28 people to Peru, and it wasn’t easy managing such a large group, especially since it was my first time working with this agency. However, I was truly impressed. Two people canceled the trip a month before departure, and the Machu Picchu tickets couldn’t be changed, so we had to buy new ones on the spot. The agency accompanied us from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, and then their staff welcomed us in Aguas Calientes and guided us through the process of buying tickets for the two people who joined later. Incredible service. Very professional and responsible. The guides were good, the buses/vans were good, and the price was very fair. Overall, it was a very positive experience. Highly recommended agency, and I will definitely work with them again for future tours.Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Letícia LimaVerified
An incredible and safe experience I highly recommend Andean Exploor. From the moment I arrived in Peru, I was assisted by Yolanda (who helped me book the package). I received full support with transportation for the tours and to the airports, as well as tours that included admission and meals—all while feeling completely safe. They took care of all the logistics for me, and the experience was absolutely worth it. Communication is clear and straightforward, and when any normal travel hiccups arise, we have direct support from them.Posted on TripAdvisor![]()
Lisette GVerified
An excellent experience Yolanda, the coordinator, was always on top of everything, and the guides and drivers were very punctual and responsible.
Why
travel
with Andean Peru Exploor?
Because we don't just organize tours… We create experiences that connect with the traveler's soul.
Guarantee & Trust
A company legally registered with Mincetur, Gercetur, and Sunat, ensuring reliability and professionalism.
No Hassle
A hassle-free trip: from the moment you arrive, everything is taken care of—transfers, trains, tickets, meals, and hotels based on your chosen category.
Different Packages
We offer a variety of packages tailored to your needs, with small group sizes for your convenience.
Customized Services
Services tailored to your needs: private or shared options, designed for different lifestyles and budgets.
Attendance
Personalized support 24/7, 365 days a year.