Cusco Titicaca and Uyuni

Begin your day by diving into Cusco’s rich Inca and colonial heritage with a guided visit to some of the city’s most iconic archaeological sites. Explore the awe-inspiring Sacsayhuaman, with its massive stone walls and sweeping views over the city. Then continue on to the mysterious Q’enqo, the watchtower ruins of Puca Pucara, and the ceremonial fountains of Tambomachay. This morning exploration gives a captivating look into the engineering genius and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization, set among beautiful Andean scenery.

In the afternoon, journey out into the Sacred Valley to visit two of the most unique sites in the region. First, explore the vast circular agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to be an Inca laboratory for testing crops at different altitudes. Then head to the salt pans of Maras, where thousands of white salt pools cascade down the mountainside—an incredible sight and a living tradition still practiced by local families today. This combination of historic sites and spectacular landscapes makes for a rewarding and well-rounded day.

Begin your journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley with a morning pickup from your hotel. Your first stop is the impressive Pisac archaeological site, perched high on a mountain ridge with sweeping views of the valley below. Explore ancient Inca terraces, ceremonial structures, and watchtowers with your guide before descending to the colorful Pisac market, where you’ll have time to browse handcrafted textiles, local produce, and artisan goods.

Then continue through the valley to Ollantaytambo, one of the last living Inca towns. Enjoy a relaxing lunch made with fresh local ingredients before exploring the Ollantaytambo archaeological site—a remarkable complex of temples, terraces, and fortifications that once served as a strategic Inca stronghold. After your visit, board the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in preparation for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, your guide will meet you at your hotel early in the morning to begin your visit to Machu Picchu. From there, you’ll take the short bus ride up the mountain to the entrance of the awe-inspiring citadel. Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu showcases the incredible architectural and engineering mastery of the Inca civilization. As you explore its temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces, you’ll gain insight into its historical significance and marvel at the ingenuity that has allowed it to endure for centuries amid earthquakes and harsh mountain weather.

Following your guided tour, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy Aguas Calientes at your own pace—whether that means lunch, souvenir shopping, or a visit to the town’s namesake hot springs (optional, not included). Later in the afternoon, you’ll board your return train, and upon arrival at the station, you’ll be met by your driver for your transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

The day begins with a scenic drive toward Andahuaylillas Chapel, renowned for its intricate murals and stunning gold-leaf detailing, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas.” After exploring the chapel, we continue on to Raqchi, where we visit the Temple of Wiracocha, a significant Inca site dedicated to the supreme deity. The site features impressive stone and adobe structures, as well as ancient granaries that offer insight into the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

From Raqchi, we ascend to Raya Pass, the highest point of the journey at 4,335 meters above sea level. Here, take in the breathtaking views of Chimboya Mountain, a striking snow-capped peak. The journey then continues to the Pukara Lithic Museum, where you’ll discover a fascinating collection of ancient Pukara civilization artifacts, including the iconic Hatunñaqac sculpture. With an expert guide providing historical context throughout the day, the journey concludes with an evening arrival in Puno, where you will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Puno (Peru) or La Paz (Bolivia), where you’ll travel along the western edge of Lake Titicaca, ascending gently through the high Andean plateau. After approximately 3.5 hours, you’ll reach Copacabana, a picturesque Bolivian town nestled between hills and the lake. Upon arrival, you’ll explore the spiritual heart of the town—the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, home to the revered Virgen Morena, Bolivia’s patron saint. Pilgrims travel from across the country to visit this sacred site, and its colonial-era architecture is stunning. Following your church visit, take time to wander through the local market, where you’ll find vibrant handicrafts, fresh produce, and insight into daily life in this lakeside community.

Next, enjoy a delicious lunch at Hotel Rosario Lago Titicaca, known for its panoramic lake views and regional cuisine. With renewed energy, you’ll board a shared speedboat and head to the legendary Sun Island (Isla del Sol), steeped in Incan mythology. Your guided tour begins at the Inca Garden, a terraced area believed to have been cultivated by Incan priests, followed by a visit to the Pilcokaina Palace, an ancient ceremonial site built from stone with striking lake views. Then ascend the Sacred Inca Steps to reach the fountain of youth, whose three spouts are said to represent the Incan virtues of love, work, and knowledge. After soaking in the beauty and history of the island, you’ll return to Copacabana by speedboat and continue by vehicle across the border back into Peru. The tour concludes in the evening with a transfer back to your hotel in Puno or La Paz, filled with memories of a day rich in history, culture, and natural wonder.

Begin your day with a peaceful visit to the Uros Floating Islands, one of Lake Titicaca’s most iconic and culturally rich destinations. Built entirely from layers of totora reeds, these unique islands are home to the Uros people, who have maintained their traditional way of life on the water for centuries. During your visit, you’ll learn about their customs, construction techniques, and daily life, gaining insight into how this community continues to thrive on the world’s highest navigable lake.

In the afternoon, depart Puno for an overland transfer to La Paz, Bolivia, traveling through the high Andean plains and crossing the international border at Desaguadero. As the landscape shifts from the shores of Lake Titicaca to the dramatic altiplano, you’ll experience a gradual cultural transition between southern Peru and western Bolivia. Arriving in La Paz in the evening, you’ll be welcomed by sweeping views of the city nestled in a vast mountain basin, ready to begin the next stage of your journey.

Your 3-day adventure begins with a morning flight to Uyuni, where your guide and 4×4 vehicle will be ready to welcome you. The first stop is the evocative Train Graveyard, where rusted steam engines lie abandoned in the desert—perfect for atmospheric photos. Continue to the nearby village of Colchani to see traditional salt harvesting methods and browse local artisan goods made from salt and colorful Andean textiles.

Next, venture onto the endless white plains of the Salar de Uyuni, one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth. Enjoy playful perspective photography, visit the salt pyramids, and walk among the towering cacti on Incahuasi Island with its 360° views of the flats. In the late afternoon, watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden and pink hues across the salt. Spend the night in a salt hotel or eco-lodge, where even the furniture is crafted from blocks of salt—an unforgettable stay in the heart of the salar.

After breakfast, journey south into the remote altiplano, where the landscape changes dramatically. Drive through the Siloli Desert, home to strange rock formations like the iconic “Stone Tree,” and explore a series of colorful high-altitude lagoons including Laguna Honda, Laguna Hedionda, and Laguna Colorada, famous for its deep red waters and thousands of flamingos. The combination of vibrant minerals, reflections, and wildlife creates one of the most photogenic scenes in Bolivia.

Continue past steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools in the Sol de Mañana geothermal area, reaching altitudes above 4,800 meters. End the day near the soothing Termas de Polques hot springs, where you can take a relaxing dip under the stars (if conditions allow). Overnight at a remote desert lodge, far from light pollution, making for exceptional stargazing in the crisp, clear Andean sky.

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive back toward Uyuni, retracing your route through Bolivia’s dramatic highland landscapes. Along the way, make a few final stops to admire lesser-known viewpoints, remote desert vistas, and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife like vicuñas and Andean foxes. The shifting colors and textures of the altiplano provide a final taste of the region’s wild beauty.

Arrive back in Uyuni in the early afternoon, with time to relax, explore the town, or enjoy a local meal before heading to your hotel. As your 3-day journey comes to an end, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories of surreal salt flats, flamingo-dotted lagoons, and the vast silence of Bolivia’s desert frontier.

As your journey in Bolivia comes to a close, we’ll ensure your departure is smooth and stress-free. One of our representatives will meet you at your hotel at the designated time and accompany you to the Airport. Once there, you’ll have enough time to check in for your flight and get ready for your onward journey or return home.
We hope your time in Bolivia —with its dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and high-altitude charm—has left you with lasting memories. As you say goodbye to this beautiful country, we wish you safe travels and look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable adventure in the future.