Machu Picchu is an ancient city in Peru about 795 miles southeast of the capital Lima. The Incas began construction in about 1450, and most of the researchers who studied Machu Picchu believe that it was abandoned less than 100 years later. It is located on the top of the mountain with the same name, this citadel composed of approximately 200 buildings succumbed to the excessive growth of the forest, but remained intact with the passing of the years. As of today, a train journey of 70 miles or 110 km connects tourists to Machu Picchu from Cusco, the navel of the world located in the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes. At 7,546 feet (3399 masl).
Lima Peru
Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, is a city where history, culture, and modernity converge. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima boasts a rich colonial heritage showcased in its UNESCO-listed Historic Center, magnificent churches, and ancient archaeological sites such as Huaca Pucllana. Beyond its historic charm, Lima is a culinary haven, celebrated as the "Gastronomic Capital of Latin America," with world-class restaurants and iconic dishes like ceviche. Explore its diverse neighborhoods, from upscale Miraflores to bohemian Barranco, and discover why Lima is a gateway to Peru's incredible landscapes and traditions.
Lima offers a variety of activities and serves as the starting point for any adventure in Peru. Whether you're traveling independently or with a travel agency, Lima is the ideal base to begin your journey to iconic destinations like Machu Picchu, Kuélap, Nazca, and many others across the country.
Why Lima?
Lima is home to the Jorge Chávez International Airport, the main hub for international and domestic flights in Peru. Every day, flights arrive and depart from here, connecting travelers to all corners of the country. With four major airlines operating domestic flights, Lima is the essential starting point for exploring Peru's diverse regions, making it the heart of every Peruvian adventure.
Top destinations from Lima: Start your trip in Peru's capital city
If you want to explore and discover Peru, your next adventure starts in the capital of Peru.
Cusco from Lima
The options to get to Cusco from Lima are by plane or by bus. There are no trains that connect these two cities. Flying is the fastest alternative that lasts (1 hour and 15 minutes) more comfortable and more convenient. There are many flights departing from Lima to Cusco during the whole morning until the afternoon. No late flights in the afternoon or evening. The reason is the location of the airport in Cusco where there are winds that make landing difficult in the afternoon and evening. There are four airlines with daily flights from Lima to Cusco and vice versa. They are Lan, Taca, Star Peru and Peruvian Airlines.
As regards the bus alternative, there are 3 daily buses that connect Lima and Cusco. The bus companies are Cruz del Sur and Tepsa. Buses leave at 2 pm, 5 pm and 5:30 pm. It's a 22 hour trip including one night on the bus. Therefore this option is longer, less comfortable and not very convenient when compared to flights; but it's cheaper.
We recommend flying since it is more comfortable and they arrive faster so our tours consider this option instead of the bus. This makes sense, especially if you do not plan to stay for a long period of time and are not on a tight budget.
Machu Picchu tours from Lima
So if you are planning to travel to Machu Picchu from Lima, our Lima Peru Tours to Machu Picchu are the best alternative. We take care of booking your accommodation in Lima and Cusco, also transfers to airports and hotels, and include excursions to visit the main attractions of Cusco, as well as train them to have a unique visit to Machu Picchu or the Ascent of the Inca Trail. Choose one of our Package Tours from Lima to Machu Picchu and live the adventure:
If you are planning to travel to Machu Picchu from Lima, Tierras Vivas offers Lima to Machu Picchu tours, which are the best alternative for a Machu Picchu trip from Lima. We take care of booking your accommodations in Lima and Cusco, arranging transfers to airports and hotels, and including excursions to visit the main attractions of Cusco. We also ensure you have a unique experience visiting Machu Picchu or hiking the Inca Trail. Choose one of our package tours from Lima to Machu Picchu and live the adventure!
If you do not have enough time to visit Machu Picchu, Tierras Vivas offers a 2 day Machu Picchu tour from Lima, which is all-inclusive, including the local flight ticket.
Choquequirao from Lima
Choquequirao, often called the "sister city of Machu Picchu," is a stunning Inca archaeological site located in the remote Andes of Peru. Known as the "Cradle of Gold" in Quechua, this hidden gem offers a unique and less-crowded alternative to its famous counterpart. Accessible only by a challenging trek, Choquequirao rewards visitors with breathtaking terraces, temples, and plazas set against the dramatic backdrop of the Apurímac River canyon. The journey to Choquequirao takes you through diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, high-altitude peaks, and traditional Andean villages, providing an immersive experience in both nature and history. Perfect for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts, Choquequirao is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Peru.
If you want to visit Choquequirao from Lima, the best option is to take a flight, which takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is very important to stay in Cusco for at least 2 days to acclimatize to the altitude. During this time you can take advantage of visiting other attractions that Cusco has to offer.
There are several trekking options to Choquequirao, the most popular being the 4 and 5 day treks. For a more complete experience, you can choose the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek, which takes 9 days and is considered one of the best and most complete treks along the Inca Trail.
Why visit Choquequirao?
Gateway to Adventure: Lima is the perfect starting point, with convenient flights to Cusco, the closest major city to Choquequirao.
Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich history of the Inca civilization in a secluded and awe-inspiring setting.
Nature at Its Best: Trek through diverse ecosystems, from cloud forests to high-altitude peaks, and witness Peru's incredible biodiversity.
Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Choquequirao is a must-visit destination. Let Lima be your starting point for this extraordinary journey into the heart of the Andes.
Kuelap from Lima
Kuelap, often referred to as the "Machu Picchu of the North," is a breathtaking pre-Inca archaeological site perched high in the cloud forests of northern Peru. Built by the Chachapoya civilization around 600 AD, this massive stone fortress features towering walls, intricate carvings, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Kuélap offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
From Lima, your journey to Kuélap begins with a short 1 hour and 30-minute flight to Jaén or Chiclayo. From there, you can take a scenic drive to the town of Chachapoyas, the gateway to Kuélap. Chachapoyas is a charming colonial town where you can explore local markets, enjoy traditional cuisine, and visit nearby attractions like the Gocta Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world.
To reach Kuélap, you can take a cable car (teleférico) from the town of Nuevo Tingo, which offers a thrilling ride with spectacular views of the cloud forest. Alternatively, you can embark on a moderate hike to the site, immersing yourself in the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of the region.
How to Arrive to Kuélap from Lima:
Fly from Lima to Jaén or Chiclayo:
Option 1: Fly from Lima to Jaén (about 1.5 hours). From Jaén, take a bus or private transport to Chachapoyas (about 4 hours).
Option 2: Fly from Lima to Chiclayo (about 1.5 hours). From Chiclayo, take a bus to Chachapoyas (about 8 hours).
Travel to Chachapoyas:
Chachapoyas is the main city near Kuélap and serves as the base for visiting the fortress.
If you don’t fly, you can take an overnight bus from Lima to Chachapoyas (about 22 hours). Companies like Movil Tours and Civa operate this route.
From Chachapoyas to Kuélap:
By Cable Car (Telecabinas): The most scenic and convenient option is to take the cable car from Nuevo Tingo to Kuélap (about 20 minutes). From Chachapoyas, take a taxi or colectivo to Nuevo Tingo (about 1 hour).
By Hiking: For adventure seekers, you can hike to Kuélap from Tingo Viejo (about 3-4 hours).
By Car: Drive or hire a private car from Chachapoyas to Kuélap (about 2.5 hours).
Why visit Kuélap?
Gateway to Adventure: Lima is the perfect starting point, with convenient flights to Jaén or Chiclayo, connecting you to the wonders of northern Peru.
Cultural Immersion: Explore the ancient Chachapoya civilization and learn about their fascinating history and architecture.
Nature and Scenery: Discover the stunning cloud forests, waterfalls, and valleys that surround Kuélap, offering endless opportunities for exploration and photography.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Kuélap promises an unforgettable experience. Let Lima be your starting point for this incredible journey into the heart of Peru's northern highlands.
Huacachina from Lima
Huacachina is a small oasis village located about 5 hours south of Lima, near the city of Ica. Known as the "Oasis of the Americas", it is surrounded by towering sand dunes and has a picturesque lagoon at its center. Huacachina is a popular destination for adventure tourism, offering activities such as sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and stunning sunset views over the desert.
How to Arrive to Huacachina from Lima:
By Bus:
Take a bus from Lima to Ica. The journey takes about 4-5 hours.
Recommended bus companies include Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Soyuz.
From Ica, take a taxi or a local colectivo (shared van) to Huacachina, which is just 10-15 minutes away.
By Private Car:
Drive south from Lima via the Pan-American Highway (Route 1S). The trip takes about 4-5 hours, depending on traffic.
Once you reach Ica, follow signs to Huacachina, which is just a short drive from the city center.
By Tour:
Many tour operators in Lima offer day trips or overnight tours to Huacachina, which include transportation, activities, and sometimes visits to nearby wineries.
Why visit Huacachina?
Sandboarding and Dune Buggying: Thrill-seekers can slide down the dunes or ride in buggies.
Relax by the Lagoon: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take in the views.
Sunset Views: Climb the dunes for breathtaking sunset panoramas.
Explore Nearby Vineyards: Visit local wineries and try Pisco, Peru's national drink.
Huacachina is a unique desert escape perfect for adventure and relaxation!
Nazca from Lima
Nazca is a small town about 7-8 hours south of Lima, famous for the mysterious Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor. These massive designs, which include figures of animals, plants and geometric shapes, can only be fully appreciated from the air. Nazca is also rich in archaeological sites and desert scenery.
Where to fly to the Nazca Line:
Nazca Airport: Small plane flights over the Nazca lines depart from the María Reiche Neuman Airport, just outside Nazca. Flights usually last 30-40 minutes and offer stunning views of the geoglyphs.
How to Arrive to Nazca from Lima:
By Bus: Take a bus from Lima to Nazca (around 7-8 hours). Companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa offer comfortable rides.
By Car: Drive south from Lima via the Pan-American Highway, which takes about 7 hours.
Why visit Nazca?
Nazca Lines flight: Take a scenic flight to see the iconic geoglyphs from above.
Visit Chauchilla Cemetery: Explore this ancient burial ground with well-preserved mummies and artifacts.
Cantalloc Aqueducts: Discover the ancient underground aqueducts built by the Nazca civilization.
Cerro Blanco: Hike or sandboard on one of the highest sand dunes in the world.
Antonini Museum: Learn about the Nazca culture and its history.
Nazca is a fascinating destination for history buffs, adventure seekers and those fascinated by ancient mysteries!
Colca Canyon from Lima
Colca Canyon, located in the Andes Mountains near Arequipa, is one of the deepest canyons in the world (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon) and a stunning natural destination in Peru. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, traditional villages, and the chance to spot Andean condors soaring above, Colca Canyon is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
How to Arrive from Lima:
By Air: Fly from Lima to Arequipa (about 1.5 hours). From Arequipa, take a bus or private tour to Colca Canyon (4-5 hours).
By Bus: Take an overnight bus from Lima to Arequipa (about 15 hours), then continue to Colca Canyon by bus or tour.
What to Do:
Condor Cross (Cruz del Cóndor): Visit this famous viewpoint to see Andean condors gliding over the canyon.
Trekking: Hike into the canyon, with options ranging from day hikes to multi-day treks.
Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs at La Calera in Chivay, the main town in the area.
Traditional Villages: Explore villages like Yanque and Maca, known for their colonial churches and local culture.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of terraced fields, volcanoes, and the canyon’s dramatic landscapes.
Colca Canyon is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, offering a unique experience in the Peruvian Andes!
Lake Titicaca from Lima
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is a stunning natural and cultural destination located on the border of Peru and Bolivia. It is famous for its deep blue waters, traditional indigenous communities, and the unique floating Uros Islands made of reeds. The lake is a must-visit for those interested in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
How to Arrive from Lima:
By Air: The fastest way is to fly from Lima to Juliaca (about 1.5 hours), the nearest airport. From Juliaca, it’s a 1-hour drive to Puno, the main city on the Peruvian side of Lake Titicaca.
By Bus: Take an overnight bus from Lima to Puno (about 18-20 hours). Companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and PeruHop offer comfortable and safe rides.
What to Do at Lake Titicaca:
Uros Floating Islands: Visit the man-made islands constructed from totora reeds and learn about the Uros people’s ancient way of life.
Taquile Island: Explore this traditional island known for its textile artistry, stunning views, and communal culture.
Amantani Island: Stay overnight with a local family to experience authentic Andean hospitality and participate in traditional activities.
Sillustani: Visit the nearby archaeological site of Sillustani, known for its pre-Inca burial towers (chullpas).
Boat Tours: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake, taking in the serene beauty and visiting lesser-known islands.
Puno: Explore the city of Puno, known for its vibrant festivals, colonial architecture, and proximity to the lake.
Lake Titicaca offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and ancient traditions, making it a highlight of any trip to Peru!
Peruvian Amazon from Lima
The Peruvian Amazon is a vast and biodiverse region covering over 60% of Peru’s territory. It is part of the Amazon Rainforest, the largest tropical rainforest in the world, and is home to incredible wildlife, indigenous communities, and lush landscapes. Popular gateways to the Peruvian Amazon include Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado, and Manu National Park.
How to Arrive to Amazon from Lima:
To Iquitos from Lima:
By Air: Fly from Lima to Iquitos (about 1.5-2 hours). Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and is only accessible by air or river.
By River: For adventurous travelers, you can take a multi-day boat journey from Pucallpa or Yurimaguas to Iquitos.
To Puerto Maldonado from Lima:
By Air: Fly from Lima to Puerto Maldonado (about 1.5-2 hours). Puerto Maldonado is the gateway to Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park.
By Bus: You can take a bus from Lima to Cusco (about 22 hours), then another bus to Puerto Maldonado (about 10 hours), but flying is much faster.
To Manu National Park from Lima:
By Air and Road: Fly from Lima to Cusco (about 1.5 hours), then travel by road and boat to Manu National Park (about 6-8 hours).
What to Do in the Peruvian Amazon:
Wildlife Watching: Spot exotic animals like macaws, monkeys, pink river dolphins, jaguars, and giant otters.
Canopy Walks: Explore the rainforest from above on suspended bridges and observation towers.
Visit Indigenous Communities: Learn about the traditions and way of life of Amazonian tribes.
Jungle Lodges: Stay in eco-lodges deep in the rainforest for an immersive experience.
River Cruises: Take a boat tour along the Amazon River or its tributaries to explore remote areas.
Night Safaris: Discover the nocturnal wildlife of the Amazon with guided night tours.
Birdwatching: The Amazon is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with hundreds of species to observe.
Fishing for Piranhas: Try your hand at catching piranhas in the rivers.
The Peruvian Amazon is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, offering unforgettable experiences in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth!
Mancora from Lima
Mancora is a vibrant beach town located in northern Peru, known for its sunny weather, beautiful sandy beaches, and excellent surfing conditions. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to relax, enjoy water sports, or party by the ocean. Mancora has a laid-back vibe and is perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
How to Arrive to Mancora from Lima:
By Bus: Take an overnight bus from Lima to Mancora (about 16-18 hours). Companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa offer comfortable and safe rides.
By Air: Fly from Lima to Talara (about 1.5 hours), the nearest airport. From Talara, it’s a 1.5-hour drive to Mancora. Flights are less frequent, so check availability.
What to Do in Mancora:
Surfing: Mancora is one of Peru’s best surfing spots, with consistent waves for all skill levels.
Relax on the Beach: Enjoy the warm weather and relax on Mancora’s sandy beaches.
Whale Watching (Seasonal): From July to October, you can spot humpback whales migrating along the coast.
Water Sports: Try kite surfing, paddleboarding, or jet skiing.
Nightlife: Mancora is known for its lively beach bars and nightlife, especially during the summer months.
Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood, especially ceviche, at the many beachfront restaurants.
Visit Nearby Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs at Pozitos, located just south of Mancora.
Explore Vichayito and Punta Sal: Visit these quieter, nearby beaches for a more tranquil experience.
Mancora is the perfect destination for sun, surf, and relaxation, offering a mix of adventure and leisure on Peru’s northern coast!
Trip to Machu Picchu Package from Lima
If you plan a trip to Machu Picchu you may have several routes and activity options in mind and want to decide the best one. Machu Picchu, the world-class wonder is visited by thousands of tourists every day, each with a particular interest. In this article we will show you several alternatives to have the best experience according to the type of visitor you are.
Tour Machu Picchu from Cusco
You can visit the citadel of Machu Picchu in one day on board a comfortable train. The route will cover landscapes of both the Andean zone and the jungle. During the morning you will appreciate all the majesty of Machu Picchu and return at night to your hotel in Cusco.
Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu tour
Make the most of time and energy with a visit to the sacred mountain of Huayna Picchu and the citadel of Machu Picchu on a 1-day tour. This private tour of the Inca wonder in 1 day is the perfect excuse to get out of the routine and have a short adventure.
Machu Picchu Two Day Tour
Take the best photo postcard of Machu Picchu after a hike through Huayna Picchu, the sacred mountain. Explore the trail of the young mountain, Huayna Picchu, and when you reach the top you will have a spectacular front view as a reward.
Hiking tours to Machu Picchu
Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail Tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Perú, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.
- Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days
- Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days
- Inca Quarry Trail 4 Days
- 2 Day Inca Trail Tour
- 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping
- 3 Day Inca Trail
- Vilcabamba Hike to Machu Picchu 6 days
- Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu 9 days
- Ausangate trek 7 days
If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu Ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.
Machu Picchu Hiking Tours 4 Days
Four days of adventure on the stone path to Machu Picchu. An outdoor hiking experience with camps and unique Andean landscapes. They will explore several archaeological sites and will appreciate the flora and fauna in their natural state under the guidance of an expert on the route. Try to bring all the necessary items for the Classic Inca Trail to have the best experience.
2 Day Inca Trail Hike
Walk the steps of the ancient Incas to Machu Picchu in just two days. The route from kilometer 105 of the route offers a view of the Inca citadel on the first day. This alternative is less exhausting but offers a challenge for new hiking enthusiasts with a huge reward: the guided tour of Machu Picchu during the second day.
Although the Short Inca Trail admits 250 people a day, we recommend checking the availability of spaces of the Inca Trail for 2 days to plan your trip on time.
Inca Jungle Trail To Machu Picchu
Explore the landscapes of the high Andean mountain and the Peruvian jungle eyebrow in the best adventure of 4 days on two wheels towards Machu Picchu. From Abra Málaga, we will descend the track on an exciting bicycle route. The following days, a walk with views of the jungle, to reach the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
This tour is available all year. You can also check which is the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Hike Salkantay
Explore the route to the citadel of Machu Picchu under the gaze of the snowy Salkantay. Meet the turquoise lagoon of Humantay, the Salkantay Pass and the valleys of the jungle brow.
The Salkantay route offers unique landscapes and an unforgettable walk. Besides nature, you know five reasons to choose the Salkantay route to get to Machu Picchu.
When is the best time to hike to Machu Picchu?
The best season is during the dry season, which covers the months April to the end of September. In October the rains begin and you can find Machu Picchu covered by clouds. If you travel in June, we recommend you to book the Inti Raymi 2025 Tour that takes place in June 24th, and also hike the Palcoyo Mountain Tour, which is an incredible Rainbow Mountain located in the Andes.
