7-Day Peru Itinerary
Peru is a perfect destination for travelers who crave a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventure. This weeklong itinerary hits some of the country’s highlights but moves at a pace that won’t leave you exhausted. Let’s dive into it!
Day 1: Lima
Lima is where most international flights land, so it makes sense to start your trip here. The capital city is vibrant, full of history, and a major foodie destination. Take it easy on your first day to recover from the flight and get your bearings.
After checking in to your accommodation, explore the historic district. The Plaza de Armas is a great place to begin. You’ll see stunning colonial architecture like the Government Palace and Lima Cathedral. Both are worth admiring, even just from the outside.
If you have time, pop into the Monastery of San Francisco. The catacombs here are pretty eerie but fascinating, and the baroque architecture is classic.
For dinner, don’t leave Lima without trying ceviche, which is Peru’s national dish. Head to a local favorite like Pescados Capitales for a fresh seafood experience you won’t forget.
Day 2: Lima (Barranco District + Miraflores)
Today you’ll experience two of Lima’s trendiest neighborhoods: Barranco and Miraflores.
Start in Barranco, the artsy, bohemian district filled with murals, galleries, and cafés. Check out the “Puente de los Suspiros” (Bridge of Sighs) and take a pleasant walk through the colorful streets. If you’re into art, stop by the MAC (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo).
After lunch, take a short cab or stroll to Miraflores. It’s a more modern area on the Pacific coast known for Larcomar, a shopping center built into the cliffs. Spend time walking along the Malecón, a coastal park with fantastic views of the ocean. If you want some adrenaline, you can even go paragliding over the cliffs!
Day 3: Fly to Cusco
This morning, fly to Cusco, the gateway to the Inca Empire and your base for visiting Machu Picchu.
Take it easy on your first day in Cusco since the altitude (3,399 meters or 11,000 feet) can be tough to handle at first. Drink coca tea (you’ll find it pretty much anywhere) and stay hydrated. A light day is essential to help you acclimatize.
Start by exploring Cusco’s most iconic sights: the Plaza de Armas and the Cusco Cathedral. Just a short walk away is the San Blas neighborhood, filled with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and cozy cafés.
In the evening, try some traditional Andean food like alpaca or quinoa soup. Pachapapa in San Blas offers a diverse selection of local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Day 4: Sacred Valley
Set aside today to explore the Sacred Valley, a stunning region outside Cusco. It’s brimming with small villages, ancient ruins, and market towns.
First up, head to Pisac, known for its archaeological ruins and colorful market. Visit the Pisac ruins perched atop a hill and soak in the amazing views of the valley. Then, stroll through the market to pick up some souvenirs.
Next, make your way down the valley to Ollantaytambo. The village is charming and still retains its Incan layout. Climb the Ollantaytambo ruins for excellent views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
Many travelers stay the night in Ollantaytambo since it’s the perfect launching point for tomorrow’s Machu Picchu trip. Plus, it’s a relaxing, quiet town compared to Cusco.
Day 5: Machu Picchu
This is probably the biggest day of your trip: visiting Machu Picchu. If possible, try to catch the early morning train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (the town closest to Machu Picchu).
Once you arrive, either take the bus up to the site, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike the trail. The hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and while it’s steep, the anticipation of arriving is worth it.
Machu Picchu doesn’t disappoint. Spend your time exploring the ancient citadel, and if you want to take it up a notch, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for unbeatable views. Entry tickets for both the site and the hikes can sell out quickly, so book well in advance.
After a full day of exploring, take the train back to Cusco in the evening. Aguas Calientes can be touristy, so many travelers prefer heading straight back to Cusco after Machu Picchu.
Day 6: Cusco (Sacsayhuamán + Local Markets)
Today is your chance to see more of Cusco’s surroundings and dive deeper into the city’s historic culture.
Start with a visit to Sacsayhuamán, an ancient Inca fortress that offers panoramic views of Cusco. You can walk there from Plaza de Armas (about a 30-minute uphill climb). The sheer size of the stones here is mind-bending.
Later, head to one of Cusco’s lively local markets. San Pedro Market is a great spot to sample local fruits, snacks, and juices. Take your time wandering and maybe grab a traditional chicha morada (a purple corn drink). This is also a great place to buy handicrafts.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can also visit Qorikancha, which was the most important temple in the Inca empire. Today, you can see the church built above it, as well as some remnants of the original structure.
Day 7: Cusco (Day Trip to Rainbow Mountain or Maras & Moray)
For your final day, you can choose between two incredible day trips, depending on your energy level and how much adventure you’re seeking.
If you want to hike, go for the Rainbow Mountain trek (Vinicunca). It’s one of Peru’s most Instagrammed locations because of its colorful appearance. Keep in mind it’s a high-altitude hike (over 5,000 meters or 16,400 feet), so it’s challenging but rewarding.
Or, if you’re looking for something less intense, consider visiting Maras and Moray. Moray is an ancient Incan agricultural site, and nearby Maras has striking salt terraces that cascade down the mountainside. Both locations offer stunning landscapes and are more accessible than the Rainbow Mountain trek.
Return to Cusco in the evening and enjoy one last meal at a local spot like Morena Peruvian Kitchen, known for its hearty dishes and friendly atmosphere.
Final Tips
This itinerary lets you explore Peru’s rich history and majestic landscapes without feeling too rushed. If you have more time, consider adding a trip to Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, or the Amazon rainforest.
Above all, remember to stay flexible. You’ll want to give yourself time to soak in all the beauty and culture that Peru offers. Enjoy your trip!
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