Introduction
You dream of exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu and hiking in the Andes and tasting the world-best ceviche? Peru itinerary is the place where you can find everything, everything you need, ancient culture, breath-taking mountains and valleys, colorful cities, and the kindness of people.
Peru itinerary will enable you to maximize your trip in a week or even two. Whether you thrive in the hustling Lima city or enjoy climbing sacred Inca trails, this is everything you need to know to plan a once- in-a lifetime Peruvian adventure.
Overview: Why Visit Peru?
Peru is one of South America’s most diverse and rewarding travel destinations. Some of its highlights include:
- Machu Picchu: The world-famous lost city of the Incas
- Cusco & Sacred Valley: Inca ruins, colonial charm, and local culture
- Lima: A coastal capital known for its food and history
- Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world
- Amazon Rainforest: Rich biodiversity and indigenous communities
- Nazca Lines & Paracas: Mysterious geoglyphs and desert coastlines
Suggested Peru Itinerary (7 to 14 Days)
You can adapt this itinerary based on your time, pace, and interests.
Day 1–2: Arrive in Lima
- Where to Stay: Miraflores or Barranco districts
- What to Do:
- Visit Plaza Mayor and Lima Cathedral
- Walk along the Malecón (coastal cliff walk)
- Explore Larco Museum (ancient artifacts)
- Enjoy seafood at La Mar or Pescados Capitales
Pro Tip: Lima is a food capital—don’t miss out on Peruvian ceviche and pisco sour!
Day 3–5: Cusco & Sacred Valley
- Fly to Cusco (1 hr from Lima)
- Take 1 day to acclimate to the altitude (~11,000 ft)
Explore:
- Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, San Pedro Market
- Sacred Valley: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Maras salt mines
- Optional: Stay overnight in the Sacred Valley for a quieter, lower-altitude option
Don’t Miss: The train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (gateway to Machu Picchu)
Day 6–7: Machu Picchu
Option 1: By Train
- Take an early train to Aguas Calientes
- Bus up to Machu Picchu
- Explore the ruins with a guide
- Return to Cusco in the evening or stay overnight
Option 2: Inca Trail (2 to 4 days)
- Book months in advance
- Marry trekking and cultural experience with a striking appearance into Machu Picchu at the Sun Gate
There is a note: Entry tickets into Machu Picchu have to be bought in advance. Exercise an additional adventure by hiking Huayna Picchu or the Machu Picchu mountain.
Day 8–9: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) OR Humantay Lake
Day Trips from Cusco:
- Rainbow Mountain: A colorful, high-altitude hike (~17,000 ft)
- Humantay Lake: Glacial lake hike with dramatic views (~13,800 ft)
These are long day trips, so be prepared for early departures and challenging treks.
Optional Extension: Day 10–12: Lake Titicaca (Puno)
- How to Reach: Bus or train from Cusco (~6–10 hrs)
- Things to Do:
- Visit the floating Uros Islands (made of reeds)
- Explore Taquile Island and meet local weavers
- Sunset over the lake is unforgettable
Note: Altitude is high (~12,500 ft), so take it slow.
Optional Extension: Day 13–14: Paracas & Nazca
- From Lima (by bus or tour):
- Visit Ballestas Islands (mini-Galápagos)
- Explore Paracas National Reserve
- See the mysterious Nazca Lines from a small airplane
A great add-on if you’re fascinated by Peru’s desert landscapes and ancient mysteries.
Travel Tips for Your Peru Itinerary
- Altitude Adjustment:
Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol at high altitudes. - Book Machu Picchu Early:
Especially if you’re doing the Inca Trail or planning to hike Huayna Picchu. - Internal Flights:
LATAM and Sky Airlines offer affordable domestic flights between major cities. - Currency:
Peruvian Sol (PEN) is the local currency. Carry some cash, especially in rural areas. - Weather Considerations:
- Dry season: May to October (best for trekking)
- Wet season: November to April (lush landscapes, fewer crowds)
Best Instagram Spots in Peru
- Machu Picchu sunrise view
- Rainbow Mountain ridgeline
- Mirror reflections at Humantay Lake
- Colonial streets of Cusco
- Paracas cliffs and Pacific Ocean
Conclusion
Peru is one unique place. This Peru trip allows you to feel pretty much everything in one journey: history, nature, food, and adventure. No matter if you are trekking along old Inca paths or relaxing in Lima in its artistic district, another day will show something new in Peru.
Therefore, now it is time to pack your luggage, take your camera, and prepare to visit one of the most memorable countries in the South of American continent.
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