Peru & Chile – From Santiago de Chile to Machu Picchu

Last updated on March 23rd, 2021 at 09:26 am

Peru and Chile are easily combinable and make for one adventure-filled, multi-destination South America holiday. In fact, Peru Chile tours are highly encouraged, as the two countries boast some of the most beautiful places in South America. Not sure where to begin planning a Peru Chile tour? No problem! Read on for one of our best Peru Chile tour itineraries. This travel itinerary features Santiago, Easter Island, the Atacama Desert, Nazca Lines, Ballestas Islands, Lima, Cusco, and last but certainly not least, Machu Picchu.  

Begin in Santiago (Chile)

Santiago, Chile is a great city to stroll through; each neighborhood has its unique flavor and vibe. While here, make sure to visit the modern center and historic district with the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago de Chile. Maybe even opt for an afternoon picnic in one of the lush hillside parks, or have lunch at one of the exquisite restaurants in neighborhoods like Providencia or Las Condes. There is plenty to do and see in Santiago. 

Fly to  Easter Island (Chile)

Fly to Easter Island, one of the world’s most mysterious destinations and discover the mysterious Moai statues which made this island famous. On an Easter Island tour, travelers can completely disconnect with everyday life and immerse themselves in a place full of ancient culture. This open-air museum also offers its guests great snorkeling and surfing opportunities in addition to the history that dots the Island in all forms.

Visit the Atacama Desert (Chile)

When combining Peru and Chile, you must include the Atacama desert stretching from the north of Santiago to the south of Peru. International explorers visit the Atacama every year and are intrigued by its terrain which is so dry and barren that even NASA tests their Mars Rover there. Although it is the driest place on earth, the Atacama desert is home to a plethora of natural wonders. An Atacama tour is excellent for those who love the outdoors, beautiful landscapes, and photography, as the sights here are one of a kind.

Indulge in Lima (Peru)

Let’s not forget about Peru! After all, what would a Peru Chile tour be without Lima? This fascinating capital is known as the gastronomic capital of South America, so tourists should come hungry. After discovering the city’s main highlights on a Lima city tour, sample their delicious, traditional dishes at one of the many local restaurants. Enjoy ceviche (fresh fish cooked with lime, peppers, and onions), ají de gallina (potatoes and eggs in a creamy sauce), anticuchos (marinated cow hearts grilled to perfection), and pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken marinated in soy sauce). Travelers might also consider visiting the seaside neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, while here.

Add on!: Paracas and the Nazca Lines (Peru)

Enjoy an excursion to the coastal town of Paracas, the base for a trip to the Ballestas Islands. Home to an abundance of wildlife, including seabirds, sea lions, cormorants, and Humboldt penguins, the Ballestas Islands are a unique experience along the Southern coastal desert of Peru. Then, enjoy a scenic flight over the famous Nazca Lines. The giant scratchings of figures and symbols etched out in the Peruvian coastal plain south of Lima, are most-appreciated from the sky.

Explore Cusco (Peru)

Onward, and upward, make way to Cusco, Peru, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The Incas called Cusco “the Navel of the Universe,” and from here they ruled a great empire stretching from the south of Peru all the way to Colombia. While here, learn about the history of this ancient city, and explore the ornate cathedrals, Inca temples, and of course the Plaza de Armas (the heart of downtown Cusco).  

Finish at Machu Picchu (Peru)

Finally, tour Machu Picchu, the Incan stone city in the sky. Marvel at the extensive stone ruins, steep terraces, and looming cliffs. It’s incredible that the stonework of this natural world wonder was so well thought-out that many of the stone walls of Machu Picchu have kept intact since the days of the Incas in the 15th and 16th centuries. Come and see for yourself!

Plan Your Peru Chile Tour

All of this (and more!) is what tourists experience on a Peru Chile tour. In addition to the locations above, there are plenty of other fascinating spots travelers should experience. So why not combine them all into one jam-packed trip? For more information on how to embark on a Peru Chile tour, contact one of our expert Travel Consultants, who have an abundance of knowledge on how to get to one South American destination to another, hassle and worry-free. That way, you can make a Peru Chile tour, your next adventure.