Day 1: Arrive in Lima
Once you arrive in Lima, take the day to settle in and rest. Lima’s international airport is modern and easy to navigate. Check into your accommodation, preferably a place in the Miraflores or Barranco districts—these areas are safe, vibrant, and full of great restaurants and cafes.
In the afternoon, walk around Miraflores. Visit the stunning cliffside Parque Kennedy and check out the views of the Pacific Ocean from the Malecón. Don’t miss a chance to try your first Peruvian meal here. Try ceviche—Lima is home to the world’s best seafood!
Day 2: Explore Lima
Spend your day getting to know Lima a little better. Start by exploring the city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check out Plaza Mayor, the impressive Lima Cathedral, and the Government Palace.
In the afternoon, visit the bohemian district of Barranco. This artistic neighborhood is a great spot to see colorful murals, street art, and quaint cafes. Walk across the Bridge of Sighs (Puente de los Suspiros) and explore the streets filled with music and art galleries.
Day 3: Fly to Cusco
Take a morning flight to Cusco. The flight is about an hour and a half long and offers stunning views of the Andes. Once you arrive, spend the day acclimating to the altitude (Cusco sits at 3,400 meters, or 11,150 feet, above sea level).
Take it easy today. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit the main Plaza de Armas, and check out the local markets. Try coca tea—it helps with acclimatization—and enjoy some traditional Peruvian cuisine like alpaca or lomo saltado (a stir-fried beef dish).
Day 4: Discover Cusco
Start the day with a visit to Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), a historic site pivotal to Inca culture. The Spaniards later used its foundation to build the Church of Santo Domingo. From there, head to the San Blas neighborhood, known for its art galleries and cafes.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Sacsayhuamán ruins. This massive stone fortress, located just outside Cusco, offers a glimpse into Inca construction techniques. End your day with a relaxing dinner and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the plaza at night.
Day 5: Day Trip to the Sacred Valley
Today, visit the Sacred Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and important Inca sites. Start with the town of Pisac, where you can explore the ruins and visit the famous market.
Next, head to Ollantaytambo. Its ruins are some of the best-preserved from the Inca period. The town itself is a charming spot to walk around, with narrow stone streets and Incan terraces still in use. Stay the night in Ollantaytambo.
Day 6: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Spend the morning exploring more of Ollantaytambo. You could even do a short hike to nearby ruins or visit a traditional Andean farm. Around midday, catch the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
The train ride winds through the Sacred Valley and offers fantastic views of the mountains and rivers. Once in Aguas Calientes, check into a local guesthouse and get an early night’s sleep to prepare for the big day ahead—Machu Picchu!
Day 7: Explore Machu Picchu
Wake up early and head to Machu Picchu, either by bus or by hiking the Inca Trail (which starts at 4 a.m.). Enter the site and be ready to be amazed! Machu Picchu is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and for good reason.
Spend several hours exploring the ruins, and if you’re up for it, hike up Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu for incredible views. After exploring, take the train back to Cusco in the afternoon. End your day with a well-deserved meal in Cusco.
Day 8: Relax and Free Day in Cusco
After a busy week, take today to rest. You can spend the day wandering around Cusco at your own pace. Visit the local markets like Mercado San Pedro, pick up some souvenirs, or try more local dishes. If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of short hikes that start from Cusco.
Or, you can simply sit in one of the many cafes and enjoy the view of Cusco’s colonial architecture. This is a great day to recharge before the rest of your trip.
Day 9: Rainbow Mountain Hike Day Trip
Get ready for another early start with a day trip to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), which has become increasingly popular due to its colorful geological formations. It’s a challenging hike due to the high altitude, but the reward is incredible views of multicolored mountain stripes.
If you’re not feeling up to hiking at altitude, there are also horse rentals available. Be prepared for a long, but rewarding, 12-hour day trip from Cusco.
Day 10: Travel to Puno (Lake Titicaca)
Today, take the bus from Cusco to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The ride takes about 6-7 hours, so bring snacks or a good book. The bus usually stops at a few points of interest along the way, like Pukara and La Raya for scenic photos.
Once you arrive, check into your accommodation in Puno and have a quiet evening. You’ll want to be rested for the lake adventure tomorrow!
Day 11: Explore Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is dotted with unique islands. Take a boat tour to the Uros floating islands—the people here have been living on islands made from reeds for centuries.
Next, head to Taquile Island to experience indigenous Quechua culture. The island is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and the traditional way of life that remains largely unchanged. Return to Puno in the late afternoon and relax for the evening.
Day 12: Fly to Arequipa
After breakfast, catch a flight to Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city. Known as the “White City” due to its beautiful buildings made from white volcanic stone, it has a laid-back, charming vibe.
Once you arrive, get to know the historic center. Visit the stunning Plaza de Armas, with the backdrop of the Misti Volcano, and explore the Santa Catalina Monastery, which is like a city within a city with its colorful walls and quiet courtyards.
Day 13: Visit Colca Canyon
Take a full-day (or overnight, if you prefer) tour to Colca Canyon, which is twice the depth of the Grand Canyon. The area is home to the majestic Andean condor, and watching these massive birds soar along the canyon walls is an unforgettable experience.
You can also relax in some natural hot springs nearby after the hike. If you opted for a day trip, you’ll return to Arequipa in the early evening. Enjoy a quiet night out or treat yourself to some Arequipan cuisine, like rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers).
Day 14: Head Back to Lima (or Extend Your Trip)
Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll either fly back to Lima or extend your trip to the coast or the Amazon. If heading back to Lima, you’ll arrive with just enough time to enjoy a last meal in one of Lima’s famous restaurants before your journey home.
If you have an extra day or two, consider visiting Mancora for beaches or Puerto Maldonado if you’re interested in exploring the Amazon Rainforest.
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