Route of the Sun – Arequipa – Cusco – Puno 7d/6n

The "Route of the Sun – Arequipa – Cusco – Puno 7d/6n" offers an immersive journey through Peru’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travelers will explore the colonial architecture and majestic volcanoes of Arequipa, the "White City," before venturing to Cusco, the former Inca capital, and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Lake Titicaca. With iconic landmarks, floating islands, and a chance to uncover the secrets of Machu Picchu, this tour promises an unforgettable Peruvian adventure that’ll leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• Explore the "White City" of Arequipa, known for its colonial architecture made from white volcanic stone and UNESCO World Heritage status.
• Discover the breathtaking natural wonder of Colca Canyon, home to the world’s largest flying birds, the Andean condors.
• Experience the cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Lake Titicaca, including visits to the floating Uros Islands and Taquile Island.
• Enjoy the iconic archaeological site of Machu Picchu, the former Inca capital, and embark on a round-trip train journey to reach it.
• Explore the rich cultural history of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, with visits to landmarks like the Cusco Cathedral and Sacsayhuaman ruins.

Arequipa: The White City

Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, is often referred to as the "White City" due to its colonial architecture built predominantly with sillar, a white volcanic stone.

The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features beautiful plazas, churches, and buildings that showcase Spanish colonial and Baroque styles.

Towering over the city are the majestic volcanoes of El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, creating a stunning natural backdrop.

Arequipa is also known for its culinary scene, featuring traditional dishes like rocoto relleno and chicha de jora.

Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, markets, and artisanal workshops, offering a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Colca Canyon

After exploring the colonial charm and culinary delights of Arequipa, the tour continues towards the majestic Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Travelers will witness the stunning natural beauty of this remarkable geographical formation, where they can:

• Observe the majestic Andean condors, the world’s largest flying birds, soaring gracefully above the canyon walls
• Explore the traditional villages nestled within the canyon, learning about the local Collagua and Cabana cultures
• Hike along the canyon’s edge, taking in the breathtaking vistas and the serene atmosphere of this natural wonder.

The Colca Canyon experience promises to be a highlight of the tour, leaving a lasting impression on all who venture into its depths.

Discovering Lake Titicaca

Traversing the iconic Lake Titicaca, travelers embark on a captivating boat tour that unveils the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of this renowned high-altitude lake. The tour takes visitors to the floating Uros Islands, where they can witness the traditional way of life of the Uros people, who have lived on these reed-made islands for centuries. Travelers also visit the serene Taquile Island, renowned for its textile art and stunning vistas. Throughout the journey, the tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the local culture and explore the captivating landscape of Lake Titicaca.

Destination	Duration	Highlights
Uros Islands	1-2 hours	Traditional reed-made floating islands, cultural experiences
Taquile Island	2-3 hours	Textile art, stunning vistas, local culture
Lake Titicaca	Entire tour	High-altitude lake, cultural heritage, natural beauty

Machu Picchu Experience

The tour culminates with a captivating full-day experience at the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the most renowned archaeological sites in the world.

Travelers will enjoy a round-trip train journey to the site, followed by transportation to the entrance. Once inside, they can explore the impressive ruins, marvel at the stunning Andes backdrop, and learn about the site’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide.

Key highlights include:

• Touring the iconic stone structures and terraces of Machu Picchu
• Admiring the panoramic vistas of the surrounding Andes mountains
• Visiting the Inca Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering

This immersive Machu Picchu experience is sure to be a highlight of the trip.

Exploring the Inca Capital

Travelers on this tour will enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire.

The two-night stay in Cusco allows ample time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas, the Cusco Cathedral, and the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit the sacred Coricancha, once the principal Inca temple.

Plus, guests can opt for an optional visit to the picturesque Inca site of Pisac, renowned for its vibrant market.

Throughout their time in Cusco, travelers will gain a deeper understanding of the Inca’s remarkable architectural and cultural achievements.

Dining and Accommodations

Throughout the tour, accommodations are carefully selected to provide travelers with comfortable and authentic experiences.

Meals are included as outlined in the tour overview, with 6 breakfasts and 3 lunches provided. Dinners aren’t included, allowing participants to explore local cuisine at their own pace.

Some meal highlights feature a buffet lunch in Chivay and a lakeside lunch on Lake Titicaca.

Optional activities with additional fees are available, such as:

• Hot Springs in Colca Valley ($5 USD)
• Optional activities in Machu Picchu (e.g., Hot Springs, Butterfly sanctuary)
• Huaynapicchu hike upon request for an additional fee

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Assistance is provided to book flights within Peru at discounted prices, such as from Lima to Arequipa and from Cusco to Lima. Confirmation is received at the time of booking. Travelers can cancel their tour for free up to 6 days in advance. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate, as no serious medical conditions are required.

	Free Cancellation
Up to 6 days	Yes
Less than 6 days	No

Accessibility	Available
Wheelchair	No
Infant Seats	Yes

Recap

The "Route of the Sun – Arequipa – Cusco – Puno 7d/6n" immerses travelers in Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the colonial architecture of Arequipa to the iconic landmarks of Cusco and the beauty of Lake Titicaca, this journey offers an unforgettable Peruvian adventure. Travelers can explore Colca Canyon, experience Machu Picchu, and enjoy the local cuisine and accommodations, making for a truly remarkable experience.