Inca and Mayan Ruins Tour of Mexico and Peru | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Inca and Mayan Ruins Tour of Mexico and Peru

PRIVATE TOUR - 12 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 7698

Private Tour Highlights

  • Soaking up the majesty of Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, with its polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style.
  • Staring in awe at the iconic Mayan-Toltec pyramids of Chichen-Itza, which dates back around 1,000 years and is an emblem of Mexico’s heritage.
  • Picturing life as a Mayan noble while stepping through the regal ruins at Tulum, perched dramatically on the cliffs above the Caribbean Sea.
  • Glimpsing historic Lima and relishing lip-smacking Peruvian cuisine.
  • Luxuriating on the soft white sands of Cancun, admiring views of the turquoise sea and letting any sign of stress melt away.
  • Discovering Cusco, where colonial architecture collides with Incan structures, and visiting the Temple of the Sun: “Korikancha”.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Allow Yampu to take you on the most important Inca and Mayan Ruins Tour of Mexico and Peru. Start off in Peru’s capital city of Lima before traveling to the capital of the Inca kingdom, Cusco. Travel by train through the Sacred Valley to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu. From Peru we fly to Mexico and the Riviera Maya to visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum. You will also spend some time relaxing on the sandy beaches of Riviera Maya overlooking the warm waters of the Caribbean.

Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

Inclusions
Price includes:
Air transportation from Lima to Cancun in economy class (surcharge applicable from other cities) Air transportation from Lima to Cusco return. Hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast. All transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling. Guided tours in English including all entrance fees. Meals where specified. Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Local airport departure taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Airfare taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are included in the cost.

Note:
*Cost includes Vistadome train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Vistadome is ideal for travelers who want a personalized immersion of Andean culture with traditional dances and music along the way. This train features panoramic windows, leather seats, new table design as well as heating and air conditioning.

*Deluxe service Hiram Bingham train features an observation wagon with a bar and two dining cars. In addition, this train includes a gourmet brunch on board, exclusive bus return to Machu Picchu, entrance to Machu Picchu as well as a guided tour. Afternoon tea in the Sanctuary Lodge, pre-dinner cocktails and a 4-course, a la carte dinner is also included. The train does not operate on Sundays. Upgrades available from Vistadome to Hiram Bingham Deluxe; please ask your Yampu Tour Consultant for the cost of the upgrade.
Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 7698

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Flight to Peru

Overnight flight to Lima.

Overnight flight to Lima.

Day
2

City Tour of Lima

In the afternoon enjoy a private city tour of Lima, one of the most important cities in South America since its founding in 1535. Journey through the historic center of the city and admire the beauty of San Martin and Major squares, the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and visit San Francisco Convent, a religious building from the late 16th century, and its catacombs. This tour also includes a drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Please note the Cathedral is open daily except on Sundays.


During this tour, visit the Museo Larco. Founded in 1926 the Museo Larco chronologically showcases the past 3,000 years of Peruvian history and culture including its pre-Colombian history. The museum is located in a beautiful 18th century vice-royal mansion built atop a 7th century pre-Colombian tomb. After exploring the Museo Larco enjoy a complimentary cocktail and appetizer at the onsite Larco Café overlooking the beautiful, surrounding gardens.


Note: Check-in is normally after 2 pm. Early check-in may be granted subject to availability (not confirmed).
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Day
3

Flight to Cusco

Early this morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco be greeted for airport assistance.


This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Cusco to visit the Korikancha Temple, or Temple of the Sun, and the Cathedral and its Art Museum. During this private tour today there is the option to visit the Casa Concha museum or the San Pedro Market.
The Casa Concha museum was recently renovated and houses over 360 archaeological pieces from Machu Picchu, recently returned by Yale University.


San Pedro Market is a lively, local market where visitors will receive a briefing about the local Andean ingredients and have an opportunity to purchase them. This market visit is a great opportunity to interact with the locals either selling or purchasing items from the market.


This afternoon there will be time for lunch before continuing to the nearby water shrine of Tambomachay (the Inca Fountains), Puca Pucara (the Red Fortress), the amphitheater of Kenko and finally the Sacsahuaman Fortress. This afternoon, return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.


Note: For more adventurous travelers, Yampu suggests an optional sunset horseback riding tour through the Sacsahuaman Ruins. Please ask a Yampu Travel Consultant for more information.
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Day
4

Machu Picchu

Early morning transfer to the train station. The train will head through the Sacred Valley of the Incas up to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, board a bus to Machu Picchu and then have a guided tour of the ruins. Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, was a flourishing ceremonial and agricultural site, probably the gateway to the jungle marshes of the Inca Empire. The central buildings were erected with the polished stone works of the Cusco Imperial style, though the site was probably occupied well before the Incas started their expansion. It was associated with the earth cult revolving around the coca leaf, which was a privilege of the Inca royal family and priests. Enjoy lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge, at the entrance of the ruins, before returning to the hotel at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a wonderful dinner at the hotel or in the town of Aguas Calientes.


Note: Government regulations limit the number of visitors to Machu Picchu daily. Entrance is subject to availability. Please book with plenty of notice so a travel consultant may confirm entrance to the ruins. Machu Picchu entrance tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
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Day
5

Day at Leisure

Today is at leisure. One may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival, train station reception and transfer to the hotel.


Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).

Today is at leisure. One may choose to return to Machu Picchu, hike Huayna Picchu or relax in the village of Aguas Calientes and its hot springs. In the afternoon, board the train to return to Cusco. Upon arrival, train station reception and transfer to the hotel.


Note: Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on this day are not included. Please contact a Yampu travel consultant to go back to the ruins or hike the Huayna Picchu at time of booking (subject to availability).

Peru_bg_Machupicchu_with_llamas
Day
6

Lima-Cancun

Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lima for the connecting flight to Cancun. (overnight flight)

Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Lima for the connecting flight to Cancun. (overnight flight)

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Day
7

Day at Leisure

Upon arrival in the Cancun airport, transfer to the hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Enjoy a day at leisure.

Upon arrival in the Cancun airport, transfer to the hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Enjoy a day at leisure.

playa-del-carmen-mexico
Day
8

Chichen Itza

In the morning head to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” One will also find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.

In the morning head to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” One will also find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.

chichen-itza-mexico
Day
9

Isla Mujeres

Today, take a boat tour of Isla Mujeres, a small island just a short distance off the coast of the northeast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea. While on the boat enjoy an included lunch and an open bar.

Today, take a boat tour of Isla Mujeres, a small island just a short distance off the coast of the northeast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea. While on the boat enjoy an included lunch and an open bar.

Mexico_yucatan_Chichen_Itza_pillars
Day
10

Archaeological Site of Tulum

In the morning, head to the archaeological site of Tulum. Mounted on the edge of a cliff, this abandoned city towers above the deep turquoise of the Caribbean and a beautiful white sandy beach. Although the site dates back to earlier times, Tulum reached its peak in the Post-classic period between 1,000 and 1,600 AD. Originally called Zama or City of the Dawn, the sun rises from the sea above the city walls and for the ancient Maya, begins her dance across the sky. The city within the walls was only inhabited by the nobles, high priests and esteemed citizens such as astronomers whereas the lower classes lived in simple wood and thatch huts beyond. The buildings in the city were originally covered with brilliant paintings and carvings – stark white, deep red or vibrant blue, but only faint remnants of these now remain. ...read less

Tulum-Mexico
Day
11

Day of Leisure

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on independently or add additional optional activities.

Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on independently or add additional optional activities.

rocks-cancun-mexico
Day
12

Flight Home

Transfer to the airport for the flight home or overlap with another Yampu program of choice.

Transfer to the airport for the flight home or overlap with another Yampu program of choice.

Lima, Peru

Cusco, Peru

Machu Picchu, Urubamba Province, Cusco, Peru

Cancún, Mexico

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Places You'll See

  • Peru_Lima_city

    Lima

    Bursting with architectural history and culture, Lima has an eclectic array of attractions. Visit the Santo Domingo Convent, a religious and artistic staple of the city’s historic center. Take a walk along the cliffs of the Miraflores district, showcasing the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, and after, enjoy some shopping at the Larcomar Mall.

  • Peru_Cusco_city

    Cusco

    Once a powerful Incan city, Cusco is filled to the brim with relics of its grand history. Visit the ruins of the ancient Incan Koricancha Temple, where the Church of Santo Domingo now stands atop. Behold the many beautiful, colonial buildings in the Main Square, including the Cathedral and Church of La Compania de Jesus (Society of Christ).

  • Machu Picchu

    Recently, following UNESCO recommendations, Peruvian authorities have placed restrictions on the visitation of Machu Picchu, the lost Incan ruins. Currently, no more than 2,500 people daily will be allowed to visit the ruins. While these new restrictions are great for the preservation of the ruins, they may cause some difficulties in your ability to visit them, so we recommend booking with plenty of notice.

  • cancun-mexico

    Cancun

    From historical relics of Mayan civilization, to sandy beaches, Cancun has it all. Visit El Meco, a substantial archeological site on the mainland, or The Interactive Aquarium of Cancun where you can get acquainted with all sorts of aquatic life, and even swim with dolphins. If an aquarium isn’t exciting enough, dive into the sea with some of Cancun’s best scuba diving instructors.

  • playa-del-carmen-mexico

    Playa del Carmen

    With a distinctive European touch, Playa del Carmen is a relaxed coastal resort town that can be enjoyed in many ways. Enjoy snorkeling and diving while learning about the local aquatic creatures including the kind sunfish, chasing sardines or maybe glimpse the peaceful manatee. Aside from the aquatics, one can walk the cobblestone streets and enjoy the nightlife and shopping offered as well.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Lima : Casa Andina Standard Miraflores Centro, Lima

Lima : Allpa Hotel & Suites

Lima : Hotel Jose Antonio

Lima : El Tambo 2

Machu Picchu : Casa Andina Standard, Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu : La Cabana

Cancun : Presidente Intercontinental

Cancun : Beach Scape Kin Ha Villas & Spa

4 Star Properties

Lima : Doubletree El Pardo, Lima

Lima : Hotel Atton (San Isidro)

Lima : Dazzler Lima

Machu Picchu : El MaPi

Machu Picchu : Casa del Sol

Machu Picchu : Tierra Viva

Cancun : Westin Resort & Spa

5 Star Properties

Lima : The Westin Lima Hotel (San Isidro)

Lima : Country Club Hotel (San Isidro)

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Machu Picchu : Sumaq Hotel

Cancun : Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun

Cancun : Hotel Casa Turquesa

Luxury Properties

Lima : Miraflores Park Plaza

Lima : JW Marriott, Lima

Trujillo : Costa Del Sol Wyndham Trujillo

Machu Picchu : Sanctuary Lodge (standard Room)

Machu Picchu : Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo (Suite Room)

Testimonials

Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

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