Tour LDS

Tour Itinerary June 4 - June 15, 2026

Your host will be LDS author and explorer George Potter, the author of 13 documentary films and seven books on the historicity of the Book of Mormon. His latest book, Discovering the Amazing Jaredites follows his milestone works, Lehi in the Wilderness (endorsed by Dr. Hugh Nibley), Nephi in the Promised Land, and The Voyages of the Book of Mormon. George has made presentations of his discoveries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chaplains Conference, the Ensign Magazine, BYU FARMS (Neal Maxwell Institute), and many LDS stakes and wards. While living in Saudi Arabia the past 27 years, he traveled extensively in search of Lehi’s Trail. He is credited with discovering The Valley of Lemuel, the River Laman, Shazer, the Most Fertile Parts, Nephi’s Harbor at old world Bountiful, and the place where the Jaredites built their barges. In Peru, where he served his mission, the has located probable Book of Mormon sites: City of Nephi, Zarahemla, Bountiful, the narrow neck of land, the four seas of the Nephites, the first city of the Jaredites, Hagoth’s harbor and many other Book of Mormon candidates. INCA TRACES is an LDS owned travel agency in Peru. INCA TRACES has been recognized by Tripadvisor was a “Traveler’s Choice: which is reserved for only the top 10% of the providers on the Tripadvisor website.

Day 1: Welcome to Perú

June 4 – Thursday

Recommended Flight Information:
We recommend booking a flight from Salt Lake City (SLC) or Los Angeles (LAX) that arrives at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima by 11:30 PM. (Please note: International airfare is not included in the tour package.)

Upon arrival in Lima, you will be personally welcomed by Rudy Chalco, founder and lead guide of Inka Traces, along with your host George Potter. From the airport, you’ll be comfortably transferred via a modern, air-conditioned coach to your hotel located in the beautiful and safe district of Miraflores.

Inka Traces is a TripAdvisor Preferred Agency, proudly holding a 5-star rating from every guest on our 2024 and 2025 tours, recognized for our excellence in service, deep knowledge, and spiritually enriching experiences.

Day 2: The Land of Desolation & Gold of the Nephitas

June 5 – Friday

Begin your day with a short, scenic walk alongside George Potter to the stunning seaside cliffs of Miraflores, where you’ll engage in a meaningful discussion about the possible historical parallels between this coastline and Lehi’s voyage to the Promised Land.

Next, board a comfortable bus for a brief ride to the impressive Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Incan pyramid located in what many believe could correspond to the land called Desolation (modern-day Lima). This awe-inspiring temple complex, constructed from over 50 million adobe bricks, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Peruvian civilizations.

Afterward, enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many nearby restaurants.

In the afternoon, you will visit two of Lima’s most celebrated cultural institutions: the renowned Gold Museum, home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian treasures, and the world-famous Larco Museum, known for its beautifully curated exhibits and lush garden setting. We will conclude this enriching day with a traditional welcome dinner at the Larco Museum’s elegant on-site restaurant.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3: Caral, First Home of The Jaredites

June 6 – Saturday

After an early breakfast, you will board your private coach for a full-day excursion to one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world: Caral. Recognized as the mother civilization of the Americas, Caral is the oldest known city in the New World and the only ancient American civilization whose timeline aligns with the early Jaredites described in the Book of Mormon.

Set amidst a stark desert landscape, Caral’s monumental pyramids not only predate those of Egypt but are also strikingly similar in design to the ziggurat-style temples of ancient Mesopotamia—the very region believed to be the homeland of the Jaredites. This visit offers a profound opportunity to explore sacred architecture that could mark the earliest chapters of American civilization and sacred history.

Meals Included: Breakfast.

Day 4: Narrow Neck of Land and The Sacred City of Pachacamac & Nazca Lines

June 7 – Sunday

We will begin the day by attending LDS sacrament services with local members in Pachacamac, Peru, providing a meaningful opportunity to worship and connect spiritually with fellow Saints in this sacred land.

Following the service, we will travel by bus to the nearby archaeological sanctuary of Pachacamac, named after one of the Incan titles for Jesus Christ. Revered as the creator of the universe by several pre-Columbian civilizations, Pachacamac was once a powerful spiritual center on the Peruvian coast. The expansive site includes the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Pachacamac—dedicated to a bearded white god—and the Acllahuasi, or Palace of the Virgins of the Sun, where consecrated women served and lived.

Later in the afternoon (weather permitting), you will board a small aircraft to experience a breathtaking aerial tour of the world-famous Nazca Lines, vast geoglyphs etched into the desert floor—many of which scholars and explorers have associated with the land of Bountiful mentioned in the Book of Mormon.

Throughout the day’s scenic bus rides, you will view documentary-style films that explore and explain the compelling connections between these remarkable sites and Book of Mormon geography, offering both historical insights and spiritual reflection.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: The Land of Bountiful Paracas

Jun 8 – Monday

From your hotel in Paracas, you’ll embark on a scenic boat tour (weather permitting) to view the awe-inspiring Paracas Candelabra, a massive 600-foot-tall geoglyph etched into the coastal hillside, dating back to approximately 250 B.C. Often referred to as the Tree of Life, this mysterious figure has inspired numerous theories—some archaeologists suggest it may have been created by the people of Paracas to signal their white god, guiding him to their shores.

Your journey by sea continues to the stunning Ballestas Islands, a protected nature reserve teeming with wildlife such as sea lions, penguins, and a wide variety of marine birds. Amid this breathtaking setting, you will enjoy a special presentation by George Potter, who will explain compelling evidence suggesting that the harbor at Paracas may have been the very place where Hagoth and other Book of Mormon shipbuilders constructed their vessels and began their fateful voyages northward—possibly to Hawaii.

Before returning to Lima, you will visit the historic San José Hacienda, often referred to as the “Gone with the Wind of Peru.” Here, you’ll gain valuable insight into slavery during Peru’s early Republican era, and learn about the enduring contributions of African Peruvians to the nation’s cultural heritage.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 6: Zarahemla

June 9 – Tuesday

On this day, you will take a flight to one of South America’s most captivating regions: the Peruvian Altiplano, specifically to the area that many researchers consider a strong candidate for the ancient land of Zarahemla, as described in the Book of Mormon. This region, located near the majestic Lake Titicaca, offers not only breathtaking landscapes but also profound historical and spiritual significance. On route to your hotel from the airport we will visit the Inca and pre-Inca ruins of Sillustani.

Upon arrival, time will be set aside for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude, as this area sits at over 12,500 feet (3,800 meters) above sea level. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to attend an inspiring and thought-provoking presentation titled “Peru: The Land of the Book of Mormon”, delivered by renowned researcher and author George Potter. This engaging lecture will explore theories, archaeological findings, and geographic insights that link the lands of Peru to the sacred narratives found in the Book of Mormon, inviting deeper spiritual reflection and discussion.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 7: Uros Islands and Taquile

June 10 – Wednesday

After breakfast, you will board a boat for an unforgettable journey across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Your first stop will be the floating reed islands of the Uros people, an indigenous community that has lived on the lake for centuries. Here, you will learn how the Uros construct their floating villages entirely out of totora reeds, and discover their unique way of life—one of resilience, ingenuity, and harmony with nature.

Your journey continues to the breathtaking Taquile Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved traditions and communal lifestyle. On this peaceful island, you will be introduced to the distinctive customs of the Taquileños, including their world-renowned textile artistry, which has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

You will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with panoramic views of Lake Titicaca—an unforgettable setting to reflect on the deep cultural heritage of the Andean highlands.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 8: Zarahemla to Cusco

June 11 – Thursday

After an early breakfast, you will board your bus and embark on a remarkable journey tracing—in reverse—what may have been Mosiah’s trail from the city of Nephi to Zarahemla, as recorded in the Book of Mormon.

Your first stop will be at Pukara, a stunning archaeological site and a strong candidate for the ancient city of Zarahemla. Once the center of a flourishing civilization in southern Peru, Pukara mysteriously vanished around 400 A.D., aligning with key timelines in the Book of Mormon narrative. There, you will explore the imposing temple complex, with its towering walls and evidence of sophisticated cultural and religious practices.

Continuing northward, your journey ascends to the breathtaking La Raya Pass, situated at an elevation of 14,300 feet (4,350 meters) above sea level—offering awe-inspiring views of the Andes and a chance to reflect on the ancient peoples who may have once traversed this same route.

After enjoying lunch along the way, you will stop at the remarkable Raqch’i Temple, the largest known structure built in the pre-Columbian Americas. Dedicated to Viracocha, the bearded white god of the Andes, this sacred site continues to be revered by local indigenous priests, who still perform rituals with remarkable similarities to modern LDS temple ceremonies.

By dinner time, you will arrive in the historic city of Cusco, widely considered a strong candidate for the city of Nephi. The evening will be yours to enjoy free time for shopping, exploring, or simply soaking in the spiritual and cultural richness of this ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Sacred Valley

June 12 – Friday

Each day of your tour brings new wonders, and today is no exception. We journey into the heart of the Andes to explore Maras and Moray, two of the most fascinating and visually stunning archaeological and agricultural sites in the Sacred Valley.

At Moray, you’ll encounter a series of impressive circular terraces carved into a natural depression in the landscape. Believed to have served as an Incan agricultural research station, these terraces demonstrate the Incas’ sophisticated understanding of microclimates and high-altitude farming techniques.

Next, we’ll visit the salt ponds of Maras, a surreal patchwork of thousands of salt pools cascading down the mountainside. Operated by local families who still extract salt using centuries-old methods, this site offers a vivid glimpse into living tradition in the Andes.

We’ll then enjoy a delicious lunch at a thoughtfully chosen restaurant, where Epicurea will guide us through a culinary experience that celebrates the rich flavors of regional Peruvian cuisine.

To conclude this inspiring day, we’ll check into a comfortable hotel nestled in the Sacred Valley, where you can unwind and enjoy a peaceful evening. Rest well—tomorrow you will step into the majesty of Machu Picchu.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Machu Picchu

June 13 – Saturday

Truly a Wonder of the Ancient World.
Your day begins with a scenic panoramic train ride through the dramatic Urubamba Canyon, offering breathtaking views of lush mountains, winding rivers, and remote Andean villages. As you approach Machu Picchu, anticipation builds for one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.

Upon arrival, prepare to be mesmerized by the grandeur of this Incan citadel—a masterpiece of ancient architecture, perfectly harmonized with its majestic mountain surroundings. Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual energy of the site or its engineering brilliance, Machu Picchu will not disappoint. With every terrace, temple, and stone pathway, you’ll feel a deep connection to the mystery and legacy of the ancient Andean people.

After your guided exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll return to the Sacred Valley to enjoy a well-deserved evening of rest, reflecting on the wonder and beauty of the day.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11: Pisac

June 14 – Sunday

Your Sunday begins with a meaningful experience as we attend worship services at a local congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This will give you a chance to connect spiritually and culturally with local members of the Church while sharing in their faith and traditions.

After church, we’ll head into the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Our first stop is the charming town of Pisac, where you’ll explore one of the most significant Inca archaeological sites, known for its sweeping terraces and ceremonial structures. Then, stroll through Pisac’s artisan market, famous for its handmade textiles, jewelry, and crafts.

We’ll enjoy lunch with a local flavor and then continue our journey to Cusco.

Get delighted with a warm and memorable llama and alpaca encounter at a local Llama farm, where you can interact with these friendly animals and learn more about their role in the Andean culture.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the majestic ruins of Sacsayhuaman, a masterpiece of Inca engineering. You’ll see colossal stone blocks, some weighing more than 200 tons, fitted together with such precision that not even a sheet of paper can fit between them. We’ll also stop at sites believed to be ceremonial thrones and entrances to legendary tunnels.

On our way back, we’ll stop to visit the Qoricancha, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. This sacred site, dedicated to the Sun God Inti, was famously covered in gold and represented the spiritual heart of Tawantinsuyo. You’ll walk through its beautifully preserved stone corridors and see how the Spanish built the Convent of Santo Domingo on top of its original foundations.

We will return to Cusco in the early evening for a restful night in the heart of the ancient Inca capital.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12: Cusco - Lima

June 15 – Monday

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Cusco at your own pace—an ideal time to savor your final hours in this enchanting city. Whether you choose to stroll through cobblestone streets, unwind in a charming local café, or simply soak in the rich history and energy of this former Inca capital, the morning is yours to enjoy.

This is also a perfect opportunity to explore artisan markets, find meaningful souvenirs, or revisit one of your favorite spots discovered earlier in the trip. From handmade textiles and silver jewelry to Andean music and local cuisine, Cusco offers something special for every traveler.

In the afternoon, we will provide a comfortable transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Cusco to Lima, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable journey through the lands of the ancient Inca and Book of Mormon traditions.

Meals Included: Breakfast

END OF THE TOUR AND GOODBYE TO PERU

Tour Details

Included in the Tour

  • • PRIVATE guiding service for all transfers and excursion tours where mentioned.
    Flight from Lima to Cusco.
    Flight from Juliaca to Lima.
    • Private local guides at Machu Picchu, Caral, Pachamanac, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca
    • Transfers from airports to hotels and back, all these are private transports.
    • Train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
    • Train ride to return to Ollantaytambo.
    • Round trip bus to Machu Picchu.
    • Private Tourist Bus to all locations
    • Plane flight over the Nazca lines.
    • Entrance fees to all places during sightseeing in Lima, Caral, Nazca, Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Uros, Taquile.
    • Meals where mentioned above
    • 11 days of accommodation at selected three star hotels.
    • Book per group: Nephi in the Promised Land

    Assistance 24 / 07.

Not Included in the Tour

  • International flights to and from Lima.
  • Excess of baggage or charges for the same issue.
  • Aspects of personal nature such as gratuities to guides, drivers, calls, fax and Internet use, laundry, beverages or food not mentioned in the final itinerary.

Prices and Booking

Price per person double occupancy, $3950
Single room supplement, $690.

Booking

Please let your host George Potter know if you are considering this amazing Book of Mormon Tour. The group size is limited to 22 people. Further, to reserve, please make a deposit of $1675 dollars per person on or before March 30, 2026. Policies and Guidelines will be sent to you on receiving your deposit. Inka Traces does not accept verbal promise to join the tour. Due to advance payments required for hotels, domestic airfares and transportation services the deposit is non-refundable. 

Deposit

If extension is needed email George Potter at: follownephi@yahoo.com.

MODE OF PAYMENT
For convenience Inka Traces Payment ask George Potter to collect fees and then transfer them to Inka Traces in Peru. You can be made by check payable to George Potter at 93 S Fremont Way, Elk Ridge, Utah, 84651 or a cash deposit to:

Bank: America First Credit Union 

Branch: Brigham City Branch

Route number:  324377516

Account  Number:  28223246.

Make your reservation by check, or by VENMO at george-potter-14 (last four digits of phone number is 1948) or direct bank deposit.

Note: Scanned/photograph the deposit slip and send it to his email account follownephi@yahoo.com, along with the names and ages of the travelers and whether the hotels will be double or single occupancy.

Once you have made your deposit, please send to follownephi@yahoo.com the following information needed to book domestic flights in Peru.

Full names as they appear on passports:
Passport numbers:
Passport Issue dates:
Passport expiration dates:
Dates of Birth:

Remaining Balance Fully Paid

The remaining balance, $2,275, is to be paid by April 30, 2026.  Same mode of payment is required.

Please take a photo of any payment document and send it to email: follownephi@yahoo.com.

 If you have questions, please address them to George Potter at follownephi@yahoo.com.

Thank you

Stay

Days 1, 2, 3 and 5. Hotel José Antonio, Lima

Day 4. Casa Andina Standard Paracas

Days 8 and 11. Hotel Casa Andina, Cusco

Day 9 and 10. Casa Andina Standard, Sacred Valley

Days 6 and 7. Royal Inn Hotel Puno

Contact Us

Get in touch

Far behind the majestic Andes mountains, in the heart of Peru, lies the historic city of Cusco, home to ancient cultures and ancestral secrets.