Day 1: Arrive in Lima
Welcome to Peru! On your first day, you’ll land in Lima, the capital city. Start with a walk around the city, specifically in the historical center. Head over to Plaza Mayor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can admire the Government Palace, the cathedral, and colonial-style buildings.
For lunch, you cannot miss dining in the bohemian Barranco district, a fusion of food and art. Don’t forget to try ceviche, one of Peru’s iconic dishes. Use the rest of the day to wind down, adjust to the new time zone, and stroll along the Miraflores boardwalk for views of the Pacific.
Day 2: Explore Lima
Spend today diving deeper into Lima’s history and culture. Visit Museo Larco to learn about Peru’s pre-Columbian history. The museum houses incredible artifacts and offers a great look into the country’s past.
Afterward, visit the edgy district of Callao to explore the street art scene. Before you head back, check out one of Lima’s many world-class restaurants for dinner. Think Central, Maido, or Astrid y Gastón if you want to spoil yourself with a high-end meal.
Day 3: Fly to Cusco and Acclimate
Get an early flight to Cusco, the once capital of the Inca Empire. Cusco sits high at 3,400 meters (11,154 feet) above sea level, so take it easy to avoid altitude sickness. Spend the first half of the day relaxing and acclimating.
In the afternoon, take a light stroll around Cusco’s Plaza de Armas. It’s a lively square surrounded by colonial churches, cafes, and restaurants. Pop into the nearby Mercado San Pedro to get a sense of daily life here—it’s a perfect spot to buy souvenirs or snack on local food.
Day 4: Cusco – Sacred Valley Tour

Today, you’ll explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a beautiful area rich in history and culture. Book a day tour to visit the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Both sites offer impressive stonework and incredible mountain views.
Along the way, stop by local villages where you can meet artisans selling handmade textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. This is also a chance to get up close with the Andean culture, with many locals still practicing the traditions of their ancestors. Wind down and spend the night in Ollantaytambo.
Day 5: Journey to Machu Picchu
Wake up early and take the scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. This train ride offers incredible views of the Andes and the Urubamba River.
Once you arrive, head up to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Walking through these ancient ruins is a surreal experience. Don’t rush: take your time soaking in the history and the breathtaking views.
Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes to rest after a long day of sightseeing.
Day 6: Machu Picchu Sunrise & Return to Cusco
If you’re up for it, hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. It’s a beautiful and serene experience that’s worth the early wake-up.
In the afternoon, catch the train back to Cusco. Once you’re back, spend the evening at one of Cusco’s many great restaurants. Try Limbus Restobar for dinner with a view of the city at night.

Day 7: Free Day in Cusco
It’s time for a more relaxed day. Cusco has tons of activities, so how you spend today is really up to you. You could spend it shopping for traditional garments in San Blas or visit the Qorikancha, an ancient Inca temple turned into a church by the Spanish.
This is also a good day to get a massage or chill out in one of the many cafes around town. Cusco can be tiring due to its high altitude, so use the day to unwind and regain energy.
Day 8: Day Trip to Rainbow Mountain
If you’re feeling adventurous, head out to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). The hike can be challenging because it’s over 5,000 meters above sea level, but it’s worth it for the stunning multi-colored views caused by the rich mineral deposits.
If hiking isn’t your thing, consider an alternative activity like a day trip to Humantay Lake or even taking part in a Cusco cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes with a local chef.

Day 9: Fly to Arequipa
Catch a morning flight to Arequipa, the white city of Peru, named after the beautiful white volcanic stone used in many of its buildings. The city is surrounded by volcanoes, creating a stunning backdrop. Start your visit by wandering around the Santa Catalina Monastery. It’s a peaceful place with narrow streets and colorful courtyards.
In the evening, try some local specialties at a picantería (traditional restaurant), such as rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper) or chupe de camarones (shrimp soup).
Day 10: Explore Colca Canyon, Then Fly Back to Lima
On the final day of your trip, take a day tour to Colca Canyon. Known as one of the deepest canyons in the world, it’s a great place to spot the Andean condor and enjoy the beautiful Peruvian countryside. The surrounding area is dotted with small villages where you can learn about traditional agricultural practices.

Return to Arequipa in the afternoon for your flight back to Lima, where you can either catch your return flight or spend your final night in the city.
Final Thoughts
Ten days in Peru offers an incredible mix of history, culture, nature, and relaxation. From the buzzing cities to the ancient ruins and beautiful landscapes, this itinerary allows you to experience the best of Peru without feeling rushed. Whether it’s exploring Machu Picchu or shopping in Cusco, you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime.
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