Journey beyond the familiar and explore the archaeological wonders, mysterious discoveries, and breathtaking landscapes of Peru's southern coast.
This four-day adventure takes you from the vibrant city of Lima to the desert landscapes of Ica, the coastal beauty of Paracas, and the legendary Nazca Lines. Along the way, explore ancient mummies, discover the intriguing elongated skulls of Paracas, and encounter archaeological mysteries that continue to raise questions about Peru's ancient civilizations.
Experience the remarkable desert oasis of Huacachina, witness marine wildlife around the Ballestas Islands, and explore the dramatic landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve. The journey culminates in an unforgettable scenic flight over the Nazca Lines, where enormous geoglyphs etched into the desert floor reveal their extraordinary shapes when viewed from above.
Arrival in Lima marks the beginning of the optional pre-trip journey through the ancient coastal regions of Peru.
In the evening, we gather for a special welcome reception and dinner, creating space to connect, share intentions, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Departing early by bus, we journey into Peru’s coastal desert to visit the Nazca mummies, preserved remains that offer insight into ancient burial practices and the Nazca culture. In La Huacachina, a surreal oasis surrounded by towering sand dunes, we witness a striking desert landscape unlike any other. We continue onward to the seaside town of Paracas for the evening.
A morning boat excursion takes us to the Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, penguins, and seabirds. We then visit sites connected to the Paracas culture, known for their elongated skulls, which continue to intrigue researchers. The stark beauty of the Paracas National Reserve completes this day of coastal exploration.
From the air, we witness the immense Nazca Lines: animals, birds, geometric shapes, and the enigmatic “Astronaut” figure carved into the earth centuries ago. Their scale and precision continue to spark mystery and debate. After this unforgettable aerial experience, we return to Lima for our final night.
Enjoy a slow morning at your hotel and take advantage of its facilities, including swimming pools and relaxation areas, or head out to explore Lima at your own pace. You may choose to stroll along the coastline, spend time by the ocean, or wander through the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, known for their culture, design, and world-class gastronomy.
In the evening, we will welcome the rest of the group joining this journey at a welcome dinner, marking the start of our shared adventure.
Because this tour is limited to the Gaia community, you will have the opportunity to embark on this journey with others who share your curiosity and sense of adventure.
The Gaia team has hand-curated this one-of-a-kind experience and it's only available through the Gaia Marketplace.
Just for being a Gaia member, you will save 10% when you purchase.
Due to the advance planning, vendor commitments, and limited capacity required to operate this journey, the following payment and cancellation policy applies to all bookings.
Payment Policy
✦ Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
✦ No deposits, down payments, or installment payment options are available.
✦ All bookings are confirmed upon receipt of full payment.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
✦ All purchases are final and non-refundable.
✦ No refunds will be issued for participant-initiated cancellations, regardless of the reason or date of cancellation.
✦ All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email and are considered effective on the date received.
Additional Terms
✦ No refunds will be issued for unused portions of the trip, including but not limited to accommodations, transfers, meals, activities, or transportation that are voluntarily not used.
✦ If a participant arrives late, departs early, or otherwise fails to participate in any portion of the itinerary, no refunds or credits will be issued.
✦ The organizer strongly recommends purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation and interruption coverage, to protect your investment in the event of illness, emergency, or unforeseen travel disruptions.
✦ By completing your booking, you acknowledge and agree to this payment, cancellation, and refund policy.
By registering for this Tour, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms (as outlined in the “Important Information” section), Cancellation and Refund Policy, and Participant Waiver.
Gaia Inc., its representatives, and agents have worked diligently to coordinate the arrangements for this journey. However, Gaia Inc. shall not be held liable for delays, theft, damage, injury, loss, or other irregularities that may occur during the course of the trip.
Gaia Inc. is not responsible for changes in airline schedules, missed connections, transportation disruptions, or any injury, loss, or damage to persons or property. Gaia Inc. is also not responsible for additional expenses resulting from changes in exchange rates, tariffs, itinerary adjustments, transportation issues, or circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to illness, weather conditions, protests, war, terrorism, quarantine, government restrictions, or other unforeseen events.
Please Note: For all international retreats and experiences, please read through our International Travel Waiver prior to departure. This waiver ensures alignment with travel guidelines and supports a safe and smooth journey for all participants.
This itinerary is subject to change to accommodate possible adjustments in domestic flight times or other unforeseen circumstances. The overall content will remain the same, barring any unanticipated complications, and will include many delightful extras and surprises.
We require that all participants obtain travel insurance. Travel insurance companies offer insurance for trip cost, trip cancellation and interruption, and covers losses due to unforeseen circumstances, death, injury, or illness affecting you or a member of your family. It also includes coverage for missed connections due to weather and for lost deposits resulting from the financial default of the airline, the tour operator, or the cruise line. It covers baggage delays, travel delays, medical expenses, and emergency assistance.
Citizens traveling with passports from most South American countries, the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and several Asian nations do not require a visa to enter Peru for short tourist stays.
However, if your country does require a visa, it is your responsibility to obtain one before departure. Travelers must ensure they hold a valid visa for all countries they plan to visit.
For a complete and up-to-date list of countries that do require a visa to enter Peru, please consult the official Peruvian government website:
👉 Issuance of Tourist Visa – Peruvian Consulate
This journey moves from near sea level into higher elevations across the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Lake Titicaca. The itinerary includes time to acclimate, but you should consider how your body responds to altitude and account for any related health concerns before traveling.
We suggest bringing $120–$150 USD to contribute toward a shared tip pool managed by the organizer. This pool covers gratuities for bus drivers, local guides, Machu Picchu circuit attendants, and other group service providers.
Please note: This suggested tipping amount does not include personal tips for waitstaff, hotel staff, concierge services, or service providers during your own free time or optional outings.