Across eight days you move from Lima’s surf-streaked coast to Nazca’s mysterious linings, then upward into the Sacred Valley and the stone citadel of Machu Picchu. Expect desert dunes, seabird colonies, high‑altitude hikes and tight logistics — all rewarding with careful acclimatization and basic hiking prep.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of a cool Lima dawn and the city’s Pacific breath pushes you toward a long, layered country — salt flats and desert, high puna and cloud forest. By day two the Ballestas Islands have sea lions barking like an impatient crowd while the Paracas cliffs stare back, wind scouring gulls into curtains. Later the Nazca plateau unfurls below a light aircraft, the geoglyphs lying flat and deliberate as if the earth itself drew a message.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 days
Fitness Level
Moderate to strong cardiovascular fitness recommended; expect several days at altitude and multi-hour hikes with short steep sections.
Wildlife
History
The itinerary spans cultures: Nazca engineers built desert geoglyphs centuries before the Inca, who later molded the Sacred Valley into terraced agriculture and administrative centers like Ollantaytambo.
Conservation
Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain have visitor limits and regulated trails—stick to marked paths, avoid litter, and use local services to support community conservation.
Reserve your spot on the 8 Days Ica Nazca Sacred Valley Machu Picchu From Lima today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco to reduce altitude sickness risk before attempting Rainbow Mountain or strenuous high‑altitude activities.
Early starts for desert & high sites
Desert tours and Rainbow Mountain begin pre-dawn to avoid heat and crowds; plan breakfast and restroom breaks accordingly.
Carry local currency
Small vendors, tips, and remote bathrooms often require soles — bring enough cash as card acceptance can be limited.
Keep passport and tickets handy
You must show ID/passport for Machu Picchu entry and train boarding; keep originals accessible and dry.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for uneven Inca stone, muddy trails and sandy dunes.
Layered insulation (fleece + shell)
Temperature swings are large—from coastal sun to freezing high‑altitude winds.
Sun protection (SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses)
High UV at sea level and extreme UV above 3,000 m make strong sun protection critical.
Hydration system (1–2L)
Sustained hydration helps with altitude adjustment and long transport days.