Peru

Sand, Peaks, and Jungle Dreams: An 11-Day Family Adventure Through Peru

An 11-Day Family Adventure Through Peru

Your Trip at a Glance

Create unforgettable memories with your family on this 11-day Peruvian adventure. Begin in Lima, visiting the nearby Palomino Islands to see sea lions and penguins. Head to Huacachina, a stunning desert oasis, for a thrilling 4×4 ride on towering sand dunes. In Cusco, explore the heart of the ancient Inca Empire and enjoy a private tour of the legendary Machu Picchu. Conclude in the Amazon Jungle, staying in an immersive lodge, spotting exotic wildlife like pink dolphins and macaws, and experiencing Peru’s lush rainforest. This journey blends adventure, culture, and nature, creating cherished memories for a lifetime.

  • 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

Your luxurious adventure where all details are expertly handled, giving you the freedom to explore, includes:
  • Huacachina: Explore a desert oasis with thrilling 4×4 rides and sandboarding on towering dunes.
  • Palomino Island: Spot sea lions and penguins and even swim alongside them as they play in the water.
  • Cusco: Wander cobblestone streets blending Inca ruins and colonial charm in this high-altitude treasure.
  • Sacred Valley: Ride ATVs to Maras Salt Mines and Moray Terraces, marveling at ancient Inca engineering.
  • Machu Picchu: Explore the iconic Inca citadel on a private tour with stunning Andean views.
  • Amazon: Stay in a jungle lodge, spotting pink dolphins, macaws, capybaras, and other exotic wildlife.

Detailed Sample Itinerary:

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.

Day 1: Welcome to Lima, the City of Kings!

Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your centrally located hotel. As you drive into the city, watch paragliders glide over the boardwalk cliffs as surfers ride in the waves in the Pacific Ocean. This lively energy is just a glimpse of what awaits you in Lima.

Spend your evening settling in, unwinding from your journey, and indulging in Peru’s world-famous cuisine. Enjoy the evening to unpack, relax from your travels, and begin indulging in the world famous cuisine of Peru!


  • Accommodations:
    5* Superior – Belmond Miraflores Park
    5* – Hotel B
    4* – Pullman Miraflores
  • Customer care available 24/7

Day 2: Sea Lions and Penguins: A Palomino Islands Wildlife Adventure (B, L)

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before your private transport takes you to the port of Callao, where you’ll board a comfortable boat and set sail to the Palomino Islands. This small group of rocky islands is renowned for its vibrant wildlife and stunning seascapes. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights about the islands and the surrounding ecosystem.

Arriving at the islands, keep an eye out for Humboldt penguins, Peruvian boobies, and pelicans perched on the rocky cliffs. Soon, you’ll spot hundreds of sea lions basking in the sun or playing in the water. For the adventurous, there’s a chance to don a wetsuit and dive into the ocean to swim with these friendly creatures—a truly unforgettable experience!

After returning to port, enjoy a delectable lunch before heading back to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.


  • Accommodations:
    5* Superior – Belmond Miraflores Park
    5* – Hotel B
    4* – Pullman Miraflores
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 3: A Sandboarding Oasis Adventure in Huacachina (B, L)

Enjoy an early breakfast before meeting your guide for a drive south to Ica, the gateway to Huacachina—one of the few natural desert oases in the world. Surrounded by towering sand dunes, this tiny oasis offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure.

Set off on an exhilarating 4×4 ride, racing up and down the vast dunes as you take in the sweeping vistas of the desert landscape. Once you reach the top of a dune, it’s time for an exciting sandboarding experience—just like snowboarding, but on sand! Don’t worry about falls; the soft sand makes for a gentle landing. Challenge yourself to master your balance, try a few tricks, or simply enjoy sliding down the slopes.

After an adrenaline-filled day, head to Paracas for a relaxing evening as you prepare for even more adventures tomorrow.


  • Accommodations:
    3* – Emancipador
    3* – Paracas Sunset
    3* – Riviera Inka
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 4: History & Wildlife: Ballestas Islands Tour (B, L)

Enjoy an incredible tour of the Ballestas Islands, a group of rocky islets off the coast of Paracas, renowned for their dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. During the boat ride, spot Humboldt penguins, cormorants, pelicans, sea lions, and the playful Inca Terns—easily recognizable by their charming mustaches.

Cruise through stunning caves and arches sculpted by centuries of wind and waves, as your guide shares fascinating stories about the islands. Along the way, admire the mysterious Candelabra Geoglyph, an ancient and massive design etched into the hillside, its origins still unknown.

After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Lima. Reflect on the day’s incredible encounters with nature and history as you unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead.


  • Accommodations:
    5* Superior – Belmond Miraflores Park
    5* – Hotel B
    4* – Pullman Miraflores
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 5: Welcome to Cusco: A Sweet Start With a Chocolate Making Workshop (B)

Following breakfast, your private transport will take you to the airport for your flight to Cusco—the vibrant, high-altitude ancient capital of the Inca Empire! As the gateway to many unforgettable adventures, Cusco invites you to explore its rich history and culture at a comfortable pace.

Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel and have time to relax as you begin acclimating to the altitude. In the afternoon, enjoy a step-by-step chocolate-making workshop using fresh, local Peruvian ingredients. Learn about the fascinating history of cacao in Peru while crafting your own delicious treats to take home—a perfect introduction to Cusco’s culinary heritage.


  • Accommodations:
    5* Superior – Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
    5* – Belmond Monasterio
    5* – Palacio del Inca Luxury Collection
    4* – Accor Novotel Cusco
  • Meals:
    Breakfast

Day 6: Cusco City Tour: Qorikancha, Saqsayhuamán, & Sulca Textiles (B)

Today, immerse yourself in the history and culture of Cusco with a half-day city tour. Begin in the main square, where stunning colonial architecture blends harmoniously with Inca heritage. In the center, admire the ancient Inca fountain as your guide shares stories about the city’s fascinating past, from the legacy of the Incas to the impact of Spanish conquistadors.

Next, visit Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, a sacred Inca site once covered in gold, and learn about its significance in both Inca and colonial history. Then, journey to Saqsayhuamán, a remarkable fortress overlooking the city. Admire the precision of the massive stone walls and take in panoramic views of Cusco from this iconic site.

Conclude your tour at Museo Sulca Textiles, where you’ll admire exquisite traditional textiles and learn about the ancient art of weaving. End the day with a delightful encounter: feeding and petting llamas and alpacas, an experience sure to leave you with lasting memories.


  • Accommodations:
    5* Superior – Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
    5* – Belmond Monasterio
    5* – Palacio del Inca Luxury Collection
    4* – Accor Novotel Cusco
  • Meals:
    Breakfast

Day 8: Sacred Valley ATV Adventures to Maras Salt Mines & Moray (B, L)

Prepare for an exciting day of adventure in the Sacred Valley! After breakfast, set off on an exhilarating ATV tour through breathtaking Andean landscapes. Your journey includes stops at the iconic Maras Salt Mines, where hundreds of sparkling salt pools cascade down the mountainside, and the Moray circular terraces, a fascinating site believed to have been an agricultural laboratory of the Incas.

Continue to Ollantaytambo, often called the “last living Inca town,” where ancient streets are still bustling with local life. Enjoy a delicious lunch before exploring the impressive ruins, known for their massive stone terraces and stunning views of the valley.

In the late afternoon, return to Cusco for a relaxing evening at your leisure.


  • Accommodations:
    5* Superior – Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
    5* – Belmond Monasterio
    5* – Palacio del Inca Luxury Collection
    4* – Accor Novotel Cusco
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 8: Discovering the Magnificent Machu Picchu on a Private Tour (B, L)

Following breakfast, your private transport will take you to the train station for your breathtaking journey through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, the charming mountain town at the foot of Machu Picchu. Marvel at the changing landscapes as the train winds through lush valleys and alongside rushing rivers.

Upon arrival, savor a delicious lunch in a restaurant offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, 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 and 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:
    5* Superior – Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
    5* – Belmond Monasterio
    5* – Palacio del Inca Luxury Collection
    4* – Accor Novotel Cusco
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch

Day 9: Into the Amazon: Welcome to Tambopata Nature Reserve (B, L, D)

Today, your journey takes you deep into the heart of the Amazon! After a short flight to Puerto Maldonado, the largest city in the region, you’ll be greeted at the airport and begin your adventure. From here, embark on a scenic boat ride along the Tambopata River, heading toward your lodge nestled in or near the Tambopata National Reserve (depending on your selection).

As you glide through the tranquil waters, look at the dense rainforest canopy and vibrant wildlife along the riverbanks. Keep your eyes peeled for capybaras grazing by the water, caimans sunbathing on the river’s edge, and, with a bit of luck, perhaps even a jaguar. Listen to the symphony of jungle sounds as the Amazon begins to reveal its incredible biodiversity.

Upon arrival at your lodge, settle into your accommodations and take in your surroundings. Relax, enjoy a welcome drink, and prepare for the incredible Amazonian adventures ahead.


  • Accommodations:
    Rainforest Expeditions
    Refugio Amazonas
    Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch
    Dinner

Day 10: Amazon Awakening: Macaw Clay Lick & Sunset River Cruise (B, L, D)

Awaken to the symphony of the Amazon as the jungle comes alive with birdsong. After breakfast, set out for one of the region’s most spectacular wildlife phenomena: the Macaw Clay Lick. Watch as vibrant macaws and parrots gather on the cliffside in a dazzling display of color and sound. Along the way, keep an eye out for playful monkeys and colorful toucans high in the canopy. After lunch, take time to relax at your lodge or explore the surrounding jungle on a guided walk. As the day winds down, embark on a serene sunset cruise along the river. Enjoy the changing hues of the sky reflected in the water, and keep a lookout for caimans, capybaras, or the occasional pink river dolphin.


  • Accommodations:
    Rainforest Expeditions
    Refugio Amazonas
    Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Lunch
    Dinner

Day 11: Primate Canopy Tour and Nocturnal Amazon Exploration (B, L, D)

Begin your day with an exciting monkey-spotting tour through the jungle, keeping an eye out for capuchin, squirrel, and spider monkeys swinging through the trees. Listen for their calls and watch bound from tree to tree and snack on fruits as your guide shares fascinating insights into their behavior. After a midday rest on a swinging hammock, prepare for a thrilling Amazon night walk. As darkness falls, watch the forest transform into a realm of nocturnal life. Look for glowing fungi, listen to the chorus of frogs, and spot elusive creatures like tarantulas, tree frogs, or even the occasional night owl. It’s a day filled with discovery, from the treetops to the forest floor.


  • Accommodations:
    Rainforest Expeditions
    Refugio Amazonas
    Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción
  • Meals:
    Breakfast
    Breakfast
    Lunch
    Dinner

Day 12: Farewell to Peru with Memories for a Lifetime (B)

Savor your final morning in the Amazon with a delicious breakfast surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Take in the last glimpses of the winding rivers and lush greenery during a scenic boat ride before transferring to the airport for your onward journey. As you head home, reflect on the incredible memories you’ve created together: the thrill of ATV rides, the joy of crafting your own chocolate, the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, and the vibrant colors of Cusco’s markets. From Lima’s culinary delights to the serenity of the Amazon, this journey has been a tapestry of unforgettable moments shared with your family. Carry these experiences with you as a reminder of this extraordinary adventure.


  • 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

  • I had such a great time with View! I went on this adventure with my parents and sister, feeling slightly intimidated by the idea of the hike.

    Adrian was extremely helpful, always available to answer our questions and share his local perspective. He was so friendly and made us feel comfortable and well-prepared throughout the trip. Read more

    Sarah W
    Family
  • We had an outstanding adventure thanks to View Signature Travels. The communication prior to our trip was very helpful for setting up hotels, day excursions from Cusco and knowing what to expect on the Inca Trail. Read more

    Joanne W
    Family
  • We took this trip as a group of 7 friends celebrating our passing 50; it was an amazing trip from an experiential perspective starting from the moment we booked until the time it ended. Read more

    Imreet B
    Friends

Planning Tour South America

Luxury accommodation throughout Expert-guided tours Private transfers and internal flights Meticulously selected experiences Expertise and support from your View South america Concierge
  • Toll me: +1 888 201 5705
  • Info@southamerica.com

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