Bolivia

The Lost City to the Endless Mirror: Machu Picchu & Uyuni Salt Flats 11 Days

Machu Picchu & Uyuni Salt Flats 11 Days

Your Trip at a Glance
Begin your journey in Cusco, a high-altitude Andean gem, where colorful streets and ancient ruins tell the city’s rich history. Venture to Machu Picchu, a New Wonder of the World, where your expert guide will bring the mystical citadel to life in the cloud forest. Travel by luxury train to Lake Titicaca, immersing yourself in its withstanding culture before crossing into Bolivia. Explore Copacabana and Sun Island, the legendary birthplace of the Incas. Discover La Paz, then culminate your adventure in the Uyuni Salt Flats, where you’ll stay in a salt hotel and witness one of Earth’s most surreal landscapes.

  • English-Speaking Resident Tour Director and Local Guide
  • Hand-selected boutique luxury accommodations.
  • A fully personalized tour crafted by your travel specialist.
  • 24/7 support from the planning stages through your return home.

Journey highlights

  • Machu Picchu: Explore the iconic Inca citadel on a private tour with stunning Andean views in the cloud forest. 
  • Uyuni Salt Flats: In the rainy season, witness the stunning mirror effect reflecting the sky; in the dry season, see the vast expanse of hexagonal salt formations stretching to the horizon.
  • Lake Titicaca: Visit Isla del Sol, the legendary birthplace of the Inca civilization, and explore traditional island communities on the world’s highest navigable lake.

Detailed Sample Itinerary:

Every View Signature Travels journey is customized to your personal preferences and interests. The following is a sample itinerary to inspire you in designing your own trip.

Day 1- Welcome to Peru! Land in Cusco

Upon arrival in Cusco, the breathtaking ancient Inca capital nestled in the Andes, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Take time to settle in, sip traditional coca tea, and enjoy the scenic views before a private city tour with your expert guide.

Start in Plaza de Armas, where colonial and Inca heritage blend seamlessly. Admire the ancient Inca fountain as your guide shares fascinating stories of the city’s past, from Inca ingenuity to Spanish influence.

Continue to Qorikancha, the legendary Temple of the Sun, once covered in gold and the most sacred Inca site. Then, explore Saqsayhuamán, a monumental Inca fortress overlooking the city, known for its massive stone walls and stunning views.

End your tour at Museo Sulca Textiles, where you’ll discover Andean weaving traditions before a delightful encounter feeding and petting llamas and alpacas. Return to your luxury hotel for a restful evening.


  • Accommodations:
    Belmond Rio Sagrado
    Palacio del Inka
    Casa Andina Premium
  • Customer care available 24/7

Day 2- Sacred Valley Tour: Maras Salt Mines & Moray Circular Terraces

Wake up early and get ready for a day exploring the Sacred Valley! Pack your belongings, as today’s journey takes you through this breathtaking region before heading to the gateway to Machu Picchu.

After breakfast, enjoy an adventure through stunning Andean landscapes. Visit the Maras Salt Mines, where hundreds of salt pools cascade down the mountainside, and the Moray circular terraces, an ancient Inca site believed to have been an agricultural laboratory.

Next, arrive in Ollantaytambo, often called the “last living Inca town,” where ancient streets remain alive with local culture. Savor a delicious lunch before exploring its imposing Inca ruins, known for massive stone terraces and breathtaking valley views.

In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the charming mountain town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your luxury hotel where you can enjoy its many amenities and finalize plans for tomorrow’s adventure.


  • Accommodations:
    Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo
    Sumaq
    Casa del Sol
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 3- Full Day Exploration of the Magnificent Machu Picchu

Following breakfast, meet your guide to board the shuttle bus that will take you up to the legendary ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Here, your private guide will lead you through the iconic ruins, bringing the site’s ancient histories and mysteries to life with captivating stories. As you wander the awe-inspiring terraces, temples, and stone structures, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean peaks.

After your exploration, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch in one of its finest restaurants. Following your meal, enjoy the scenic train ride back to Cusco. Upon arrival at the station, your private transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on this unforgettable day.


  • Accommodations:
    Superior Belmond Rio Sagrado
    Palacio del Inka
    Casa Andina Premium
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 4- Altiplano Train Ride to Puno

Today, take a scenic train journey from Cusco to Puno, traveling in luxury through the breathtaking Andes Mountains. Sit back and enjoy an unforgettable experience, complete with gourmet dining, onboard entertainment, and a Pisco Sour class, all while admiring the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Altiplano from your window.

Upon arrival in Puno, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your lakeside hotel, where you can unwind and take in the tranquil surroundings. Welcome to Puno, your gateway to the legendary Lake Titicaca, where an incredible journey of cultural discovery and natural beauty awaits.


  • Accommodations:
    Titilaka – Relais & Châteaux
    GHL Hotel Lake Titicaca
    Casa Andina Premium Puno
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch
    Tea Time

Day 5- Lake Titicaca: Full day Tour to the Uros & Taquile

After breakfast at your hotel, your full-day adventure on Lake Titicaca begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Puno. Accompanied by your guide, set off to explore the lake’s remarkable islands: Uros and Taquile.

Your first stop is Uros, a fascinating collection of floating islands made entirely of Totora reeds. Home to a small indigenous community with roots tracing back to pre-Inca times, these islands showcase a unique way of life that has endured for centuries. Spend time with the Uros people, learning about their traditions, craftsmanship, and daily life.

Next, continue to Taquile Island, known for its rich Aymara cultural heritage and stunning panoramic views. Here, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared local lunch before visiting a traditional weaving cooperative, where you’ll witness the incredible skill of the island’s renowned textile artists.

After this immersive cultural experience, return to Puno and your lodge, carrying with you a deeper appreciation of the rich traditions and breathtaking beauty of Lake Titicaca.


  • Accommodations:
    Titilaka – Relais & Châteaux
    GHL Hotel Lake Titicaca
    Casa Andina Premium Puno
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 6- Welcome to Bolivia: First Moments in Copacabana

Depart early from Puno and set off on an unforgettable journey to the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America. After completing border formalities, continue the scenic boat ride to Copacabana, a picturesque town renowned for its deep spiritual significance.

Visit the historic 400-year-old Church of Candelaria, where pilgrims from all over come to seek blessings from the Miracle Virgin María. Follow local traditions and present your wishes – legend has it, she just might grant them.

Stroll through colorful local markets, where you can sample “pasancallas,” a beloved local snack. Then, hike up Calvary Hill, a sacred site offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Titicaca.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, taking in the serene atmosphere of this enchanting town.


  • Accommodations:
    Hotel Rosario Lago Titicaca
    Hotel Lago Azul
    Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 7 - Explore Sun Island: The Birthplace of the Incas

Board a boat to Sun Island, the legendary birthplace of the Inca Empire, where ancient traditions still thrive. Experience the millennia-old culture firsthand as you participate in an apthapi, a traditional communal meal that fosters a deep sense of community, an authentic way to enjoy lunch with the locals.

Hike the ancient Inca steps to reach La Fuente de la Juventud (the Fountain of Youth), a sacred site believed to hold rejuvenating waters. Along the way, take in the breathtaking landscapes and pause at a panoramic balcony, where you can truly grasp the vastness and beauty of Lake Titicaca from above.

Continue to the Pilkokaina Palace, an impressive set of Inca ruins that serve as a reminder of the island’s grandeur. As the day winds down, return to Copacabana by boat, just in time to witness a spectacular sunset over the shimmering waters of the lake, a perfect ending to an unforgettable journey.


  • Accommodations:
    Hotel Rosario Lago Titicaca
    Hotel Lago Azul
    Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 8- La Paz City Tour

After breakfast, you will be taken in private transport to Bolivia’s capital city. Discover La Paz in a day, beginning with breathtaking city views from Mirador Killi Killi. Next, explore Plaza Murillo, the city’s historic heart, home to Bolivia’s key government buildings and its oldest cathedral. Delve into Bolivia’s heritage at the Folklore Museum, where vibrant masks, traditional clothing, and music bring history to life. Then, venture to Valle de la Luna, a surreal landscape shaped by centuries of erosion.
For lunch, savor Bolivian cuisine with an international touch before soaring above the city on La Paz’s iconic cable cars. Continue to the mystical Witches’ Market, where ritual supplies and sacred amulets offer a glimpse into Bolivia’s spiritual traditions. End your journey at the stunning San Francisco Church, an architectural gem rich in history. From panoramic views to cultural wonders, this day in La Paz is an unforgettable immersion into the city’s essence.


  • Accommodations:
    Hotel Rosario La Paz
    Casa Grande
    Patio de Piedra
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 9 - Step into Another World: Welcome to Uyuni Salt Flats

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to the airport for your flight to Uyuni. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed and taken to your hotel to drop off your belongings before setting off on an unforgettable adventure.

Begin at the Train Cemetery, where century-old locomotives tell the story of Bolivia’s industrial past. Continue to Colchani, where local artisans craft salt-based products, and visit the Playa Blanca Museum to admire intricate salt sculptures. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch amidst the surreal landscape.

As evening approaches, witness a breathtaking sunset over the vast salt flats, an awe-inspiring spectacle best enjoyed with a glass of Bolivia’s finest wine. End the day with a relaxing stay at your luxury hotel, reflecting on the magic of Uyuni.


  • Accommodations:
    Palacio de Sal
    Hotel de Sal Luna Salada
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch
    Dinner

Day 10- The Landscapes and Histories of Uyuni

Begin your day with an unforgettable journey to the majestic Tunupa Volcano, where breathtaking panoramic views of the endless white expanse of the Salar de Uyuni await. Along the way, immerse yourself in the rich history and legends of the region.
Explore the Coquesa Caves, home to remarkably preserved mummies dating back to 700 A.D., offering a rare glimpse into ancient Andean civilizations. Enjoy a beautifully prepared lunch surrounded by the stunning salt flats, a surreal setting unlike any other. As the day unfolds, prepare for its most magical moment – a mesmerizing sunset over the Salar de Uyuni. Watch as golden hues dance across the shimmering salt. Conclude your adventure with a return to your luxurious hotel, where you can relax and reflect on a day filled with extraordinary landscapes and timeless history.

As you return to your accommodations, take time to reflect on the day’s unforgettable adventures, from volcanic vistas to vibrant marine life and close encounters with the Galápagos’ most iconic creatures


  • Accommodations:
    Palacio de Sal
    Hotel de Sal Luna Salada
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch
    Dinner

Day 11- Farewell & Reflections on and Incredible Adventure

Today, you’ll head to Uyuni Airport for your connection in La Paz, marking the final leg of your journey home. As you travel, take a moment to reflect on your incredible adventure.

Your journey began in Cusco, where you explored the breathtaking Sacred Valley before experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu. From there, you ventured to Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America, discovering both its Peruvian and Bolivian shores before immersing yourself in the vibrant charm of Copacabana. Finally, your trip culminated in the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats – an endless mirror during the rainy season and a mesmerizing hexagonal landscape in the dry season.


  • Accommodations:
    End of services.
  • Meals:
    Breakfast

Inclusions

Every View Signature Travels is customized to your personal preferences and interests. The following is a sample itinerary to inspire you in designing your own trip.

What's Included:

  • 24/7 support from View Signature Travels during every stage of your journey, from planning until your return home. 
  • Expert English speaking local guides. 
  • Handpicked lodging as specified in the itinerary.
  • Meals indicated in the itinerary.
  • All ground, train and water transportation as specified in the itinerary, including airport transfers.
  • All private tours, excursions, entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, with private English-speaking guides for all included tours and activities. 
  • Carbon offsetting through the Sustainable Travel International

What's not Included:

  • International flights 
  • Domestic flights as specified in the itinerary, please note we can make these reservations upon request.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended and is not included in your package. 
  • Optional tours, activities, meals, and experiences not specified in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, telephone calls, and tips/gratuities.
  • Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., natural disasters, flight delays).

What our customer
tells us

Testimonial

  • A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for 

    Co-Founder
  • A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for 

    Sarah Lopez
  • A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for 

    Robert Kim

Plan Your South American Tour

Concierge (eso no tiene sentido en inglés) ---> Explore South America’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities while enjoying luxurious accommodations and exclusive, expertly guided tours. Designed to match your unique tastes, your journey ensures unforgettable experiences to South America's hidden gems on a journey tailored just for you.
  • Toll me: +1 888 201 5705
  • Info@southamerica.com

    More tours to inspire you

    Whatever you want from your adventure in Latin America, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

    Bolivia Travel Guide

    Get inspiration and tips, itineraries and essential information to plan your unforgettable adventure in South America.