10 recommended itineraries for traveling around Peru

10 recommended itineraries for traveling around Peru is an ideal guide for those who want to explore the country in many ways, depending on the time available, interests, travel style, budget, and time of year. From short trips focused on a single region and fast-paced activities to more complete routes that combine coast, highlands, and jungle, there are multiple options to discover Peru in a relaxed and well-organized way.

Having well-structured itineraries makes it possible to optimize transfers, adapt better to the altitude, and enjoy each destination without rushing. Based on these points, below you’ll find different travel proposals designed to make the most of the country’s cultural and geographic diversity.

How to choose the ideal itinerary for traveling around Peru?

Choosing the right route allows you to make better use of your time and enjoy the trip without rushing. These factors will help you decide:

• Trip duration
• Type of traveler you consider yourself
• Budget available
• Time of year
• Regions you want to visit

Trip duration

The duration of the trip is one of the most important factors when planning a route through Peru, since it defines not only the destinations that can be included, but also the pace and overall experience of the journey. A well-balanced itinerary allows you to get to know places without rushing, avoid unnecessary transfers, and make better use of each region of the country.

• 5 to 7 days: focus on one region (Cusco).
• 8 to 12 days: combination of several main destinations (Cusco, Lima, Arequipa, and Puno).
• 14 days or more: possibility of including the jungle, the north of the country (beaches), or even Bolivia.

Type of traveler (adventure, cultural, relaxing, mixed)

Identifying your traveler profile is key to designing an itinerary according to your interests and activity level. Peru offers a wide variety of options, so choosing the right focus for your trip helps you enjoy each destination more and avoid routes that don’t match your pace.

• Adventure traveler: For those who love hiking, mountains, nature, and alternative routes.
• Cultural traveler: Consider yourself one if you’re the kind of person who wants to learn about the history and origins of a city by visiting museums and archaeological sites.
• Relaxed traveler: Those who travel more calmly, visiting quiet cities, enjoying the food scene, and doing fewer transfers.
• Mixed traveler: Those who prefer to combine culture, landscapes, hikes, and free time; this is the most common option among travelers.

Budget and time of year

The trip budget is closely linked to the time of year when you visit Peru. Tourist demand varies depending on the season, which directly influences the prices of flights, accommodation, and tours, especially in the most visited areas.

• During the dry season (April–October) prices are usually higher, especially in July and August.
• During the rainy season (November–March) there are fewer visitors and better rates, although with more rain in the Andes.

Main regions: coast, highlands, and jungle

Peru is divided into three major natural regions, each with very different characteristics in terms of climate, landscapes, and experiences. Understanding these differences helps you organize your itinerary better and combine destinations in a balanced way.

• Coast: Lima, Paracas, Nazca. Stable weather all year round.
• Highlands: Cusco, Arequipa, Puno. Archaeological and cultural area, at high altitude.
• Jungle: Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado. Nature and biodiversity.
• Bolivia (destination outside the country): Uyuni Salt Flats, at high altitude.

Remember that a good itinerary combines these regions in a balanced way, respecting transfer times and adaptation to the altitude.

Itinerary 1 – Peru in 5 days: Cusco + Machu Picchu

This itinerary is designed for those who have few days and want to focus on the country’s main tourist destination: Machu Picchu. In just five days it’s possible to visit Cusco, its archaeological surroundings, visit Machu Picchu, hike to Rainbow Mountain, and explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

It’s a practical and direct route, ideal for a first trip to Peru or as part of a longer journey through South America.

Day by day

• Day 1: Pickup at the Cusco airport and transfer to your hotel, and free time to walk around at your own pace (for acclimatization).
• Day 2: You’ll visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Pisac, its handicraft market, and before reaching Machu Picchu you’ll get to know one of the last Inca fortresses, Ollantaytambo.
• Day 3: On this day we head to Machu Picchu after having boarded the train the day before. You’ll have a guide for the entire tour as well as time to take photos.
• Day 4: Today Rainbow Mountain awaits us; a short hike where we’ll come across llamas and alpacas separates us from the destination.
• Day 5: Transfer to the airport and end of the trip.

Who it’s ideal for

This route is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco’s main highlights. It works well as a first contact with Peru or as an extension of a broader South America trip.

Advantages and limitations

This itinerary offers an efficient way to visit one of the country’s top attractions in a short period of time, although it also comes with some limitations due to its length.

Advantages:

• Allows you to visit Machu Picchu in just a few days.
• Well-connected transfers and short routes.
• Good introduction to Inca culture.

Limitations:

• Tight pace, with little free time.
• Does not include other destinations in the country such as Lima, Arequipa, or Lake Titicaca.
• Some places require acclimatization due to the altitude.

This 5-day itinerary has been designed to make the most of a short stay in Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Itinerary 2 – Peru in 6 days: Machu Picchu + Humantay Lagoon

This itinerary is ideal for those who want a more complete experience in the Sacred Valley and its surroundings, combining visits to the main archaeological sites with the must-see Machu Picchu. In just six days, you’ll be able to explore not only the wonders of the former capital of the Inca Empire, but also stunning landscapes and beautiful Andean towns. It’s perfect for those who have a bit more time and want to get to know this historic and cultural region of Peru in depth.

Day by day

• Day 1: Arrival in Cusco (includes pickup and transfer to your hotel) and acclimatization.
• Day 2: We visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Pisac, the handicraft market, Ollantaytambo, and board the train to Machu Picchu.
• Day 3: From Machu Picchu Pueblo a bus will take us up to the world wonder, where a guide will show us the Inca citadel.
• Day 4: We start the ascent with a hike to Rainbow Mountain, located at more than 5,000 meters above sea level.
• Day 5: Humantay Lagoon will surprise us with its unique turquoise waters.
• Day 6: Transfer to the airport and end of the trip.

Activity level

The entire route has a moderate activity level. Even though no demanding treks are required, you’ll walk during the tours in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lagoon. Bus and train transfers make the trip more comfortable, but it’s important to be prepared to walk on uneven terrain and at considerable altitude.

Timing tips

• Acclimatization: Make sure to rest and adapt well to the altitude on the first day. In Cusco, the altitude can affect you, so it’s key to take it slow and drink plenty of fluids.
• Excursions: The Sacred Valley is best visited on a full-day tour, and touring Machu Picchu with a guide allows you to see the most impressive spots for photos.
• Machu Picchu: Book entrance tickets in advance, as capacity is limited and tickets often sell out quickly in high season.

An experience that combines Andean landscapes, living culture, and the main archaeological sites of Cusco.
See the detailed program for the Peru in 6 Days itinerary: Machu Picchu + Humantay Lagoon.

Itinerary 3 – Peru in 7 days: Cusco + Machu Picchu

This itinerary will allow you to get to know in detail the most attractive places in Cusco, Peru’s main archaeological destination. It’s a balanced route for those who want to experience Cusco, its gastronomy, heritage, and explore the Inca legacy by visiting Machu Picchu, all in one well-organized week.

Day by day

Here we break down the activities we’ll do during the 7 days of the trip:

• Day 1: Arrival and pickup at the airport; once checked in we have free time to acclimatize.
• Day 2: We tour Pisac, the handicraft market, and Ollantaytambo, which are part of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• Day 3: We visit the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, always with a guide, and we have the option to hike Huayna Picchu.
• Day 4: We hike up to Rainbow Mountain, a high-altitude and stunning landscape.
• Day 5: Today we visit the main attractions of Cusco’s historic center, such as Qoricancha and Sacsayhuamán.
• Day 6: We reach Humantay Lagoon after a moderate hike; don’t forget to bring a warm jacket as we’ll be at the foot of the Salkantay snow-capped peak.
• Day 7: Transfer to the airport and end of the trip.

Best time to do it

The best time is between April and October, when the weather in Cusco is more stable and there is less rain. July and August offer great weather, but with more visitors. Between November and March it’s still possible to do the trip, although with frequent rains in the Andean region.

What to avoid

• Scheduling too little time in Cusco without prior acclimatization.
• Leaving the purchase of Machu Picchu tickets to the last minute.
• Planning demanding activities on the first day at altitude.
• Underestimating the transfers between flights, trains, and sightseeing.

Seven well-organized days to enjoy Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu at a comfortable and efficient pace. Check the detailed itinerary of the Peru in 7 Days: Cusco + Machu Picchu tour.

Itinerary 4 – Tour to Lima, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in 8 days

This tour is designed for those who, in addition to visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu, want to include the country’s gastronomic capital: Lima. It’s a route that combines culture and nature, with one day of high-altitude hiking but without requiring previous trekking experience.

Day by day

• Day 1: Arrival and pickup at the Lima airport. You have the rest of the day free to explore the gastronomic capital.
• Day 2: We discover the Huacachina Oasis in the middle of the Ica desert, ride buggies for an extreme ride through the dunes, or go sandboarding.
• Day 3: City tour in Lima and then flight to Cusco.
• Day 4: We visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pisac, handicraft market, and Ollantaytambo) before arriving in the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Day 5: We explore the world wonder of Machu Picchu with a guide who will lead us through the entire citadel.
• Day 6: Rainbow Mountain awaits us with its vibrant colors.
• Day 7: We visit Humantay Lagoon, located at the foot of the Salkantay snow-capped peak.
• Day 8: Transfer to the airport and end of the trip.

Trekking difficulty

The hike to Rainbow Mountain is of moderate difficulty. The route takes between 1 and 1.5 hours each way and is done at more than 5,000 meters above sea level. The main challenge is the altitude more than the distance.

Adaptation to the altitude

It’s essential to have several days in Cusco before doing this excursion. It’s recommended to stay well hydrated, walk slowly, and avoid strenuous efforts during the first days. This itinerary includes enough time for better acclimatization before the trek.

From the Pacific coast to the Andes, this itinerary offers a broad and balanced view of Peru in just eight days. See the detailed program of the Tour to Lima, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in 8 days.

Itinerary 5 – Peru in 10 days: Lima + Lake Titicaca + Cusco

This complete route combines three of the country’s most important cities and lets you experience both the coast and the southern highlands of Peru in a single trip. It’s a balanced route for those who want history, gastronomy, and Andean landscapes, with reasonable transfer times and proper altitude adaptation.

Day by day

• Day 1: Pickup at the Lima airport and transfer to the hotel.
• Day 2: We visit the Huacachina Oasis with buggies and sandboards and take a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands.
• Day 3: Flight from Lima to Cusco and a free day for acclimatization.
• Day 4: We tour the Sacred Valley of the Incas and board the train in Ollantaytambo heading to the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Day 5: An official guide will show us the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, pointing out the most beautiful spots for photos.
• Day 6: Hike up to the colorful Rainbow Mountain.
• Day 7: We approach the Salkantay snow-capped peak to see Humantay Lagoon.
• Day 8: We leave Cusco for Puno and travel along the Route of the Sun (Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, and Pukara).
• Day 9: Still in Puno, today we sail across Lake Titicaca and visit its famous floating islands.
• Day 10: Transfer to the airport and end of the trip.

Key points of the trip

• Acclimatization is progressive: Lima helps before arriving in Cusco.
• It’s advisable to book internal flights and Machu Picchu tickets in advance.
• The itinerary offers a good balance of cities, history, and nature without overloading the days.

Alternatives if you want more nature

If you have more time, it’s possible to extend the itinerary to include additional experiences without changing the logic of the route.

If you have extra days, adding one more allows you to explore Cusco’s historic center at a slower pace, visiting its most emblematic streets and museums, and extend the trip to include high-mountain areas such as Ausangate, ideal for discovering more snow-capped peaks and Andean landscapes.

Designed for travelers who want to visit several destinations without rushing, with enough time for acclimatization and exploration. Explore the full itinerary of this 10-day trip through Lima, Puno, and Cusco.

Itinerary 6 – Peru in 12 days: Lima, Arequipa, Titicaca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu

This tour is one of the most complete ways to see southern Peru. It covers the main cities, Andean landscapes, and archaeological sites of the country, combining coast, highlands, and living culture in a well-balanced route with reasonable altitude adaptation times.

Day by day

• Day 1: Arrival in Lima and transfer to the hotel; you’ll have the rest of the day free.
• Day 2: We’ll take a boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands and a ride through the dunes of the Ica desert in buggies and sandboard until we reach the Huacachina Oasis.
• Day 3: City tour through Lima’s Historic Center, the Love Park on the Miraflores clifftop, and we’ll also visit the catacombs of a colonial-era church.
• Day 4: Flight from Lima to Arequipa. We’ll get to know the city and the Santa Catalina Monastery, both key parts of the city’s history.
• Day 5: From Arequipa we leave the city to visit the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve to see vicuñas and other wildlife, and continue to the viewpoint of the volcanoes in Pata Pampa.
• Day 6: Today we watch the flight of one of Peru’s largest birds: the condor.
• Day 7: Upon arrival in Puno we visit Lake Titicaca and explore the floating islands of Uros and Taquile.
• Day 8: We travel the Route of the Sun from Puno to Cusco.
• Day 9: The Sacred Valley awaits us; we visit Pisac, its handicraft market to do some shopping, and Ollantaytambo before boarding the train that takes us closer to Machu Picchu.
• Day 10: One of the wonders of the world welcomes us in its impressive citadel, Machu Picchu.
• Day 11: We hike up to Rainbow Mountain, and along the way we’ll see wildlife that we can photograph.
• Day 12: Transfer to the airport and farewell, services end.

Why it’s one of the most complete itineraries

This itinerary brings together the country’s most representative destinations in a single route, allows progressive acclimatization to altitude, and combines cities, nature, and cultural heritage in a balanced way, avoiding rushed schedules and unnecessary transfers.

Approximate budget

The estimated budget for this itinerary starts at USD 1,365 per person, and from there you can continue adding extra and personalized services. Remember to factor in travel season, hotel category, type of train to Machu Picchu, and how far in advance you book.

Ideal for those who want a broad overview of the country, with a well-balanced journey between cities, nature, and archaeological sites. Explore the full itinerary of this 12-day trip through southern Peru.

Itinerary 7 – Peru in 15 days: Classic South + Amazon

This itinerary is designed for those who have more time and want to combine the classic route through southern Peru with an experience in the Amazon. It’s a complete journey that connects historic cities, Andean landscapes, and Amazonian biodiversity in a single trip.

Day by day

• Day 1: Pickup at the Lima airport; once checked in, we have the rest of the day free.
• Day 2: Gastronomic experience and city tour in Lima.
• Day 3: We board a boat that takes us to see the wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and then head to the Huacachina Oasis. Maximum adrenaline with buggies and sandboarding.
• Day 4: Flight from Lima to Arequipa; once settled in the hotel, we continue with a city tour.
• Day 5: We leave the city to visit the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, to observe vicuñas and local wildlife, and continue to the volcano viewpoint in Pata Pampa.
• Day 6: Today we meet one of Peru’s largest birds, the Andean condor, which will amaze us with its flight. It’s important to start very early.
• Day 7: We head back to Cusco. Upon arrival we have a city tour through the historic center.
• Day 8: We explore Pisac, its handicraft market, and Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley of the Incas) before boarding the train to the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Day 9: The big day arrives: we visit the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, and a private guide leads us along the entire route.
• Day 10: Today the adventure in the Peruvian jungle begins. We travel from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado (by plane) and sail along the Madre de Dios River until we reach our lodge.
• Day 11: We start a hike through the forest to discover the local flora and fauna, reaching Apu Víctor (an Amazon viewpoint) and Monkey Island.
• Day 12: We start the return from Puerto Maldonado to Cusco.
• Day 13: We wake up very early to reach Humantay Lagoon; today a hike will take us up to the foot of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain.
• Day 14: On our last day in Cusco, we visit one of the highest areas, Rainbow Mountain. A moderate hike will let us see llamas and alpacas along the way.
• Day 15: Return to Lima and end of the trip.

Which jungle to choose: Iquitos, Tambopata, or Manu

The choice of Amazon area depends mainly on the time available, ease of access, and the type of experience you’re looking for. In this sense, Peru offers different gateways to the jungle, as each one has particular characteristics in terms of remoteness, biodiversity, and travel logistics.

• Iquitos: accessible only by air or river, ideal for a deeper and more remote Amazon experience.
• Tambopata (Puerto Maldonado): the most accessible option from Cusco, with lodges in nature reserves and good wildlife viewing.
• Manu: the most biodiverse and remote area, recommended for travelers with more time and a strong interest in nature.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Combines the country’s most important destinations.
• Includes an Amazon experience.
• Balanced pace for a long trip.

Cons:

• Higher budget than shorter itineraries.
• Requires additional internal flights.
• Less flexible if you only have a few days.

From colonial cities and Andean landscapes to the Amazon jungle, this itinerary lets you experience Peru in all its diversity. Discover the full itinerary for Peru in 15 Days: Classic South + Amazon.

Itinerary 8 – Peru in 10–12 days: Archaeological North + Trujillo and Chiclayo

This itinerary is aimed at travelers interested in pre-Inca archaeology and the history of northern Peru. It’s an excellent alternative to part of the southern routes and lets us get to know coastal cultures such as the Moche and Chimú, as well as cities with a strong cultural identity and fewer tourists.

Day by day

• Day 1: Arrival and pickup in Lima. We have the rest of the day free.
• Day 2: Flight from Lima to Trujillo. We spend the rest of the day exploring the historic center.
• Day 3: We visit Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna, important ceremonial centers of the Moche culture. Includes a tour of the museum.
• Day 4: In the morning we visit Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the Americas. Then we head to Huanchaco, a traditional seaside town known for its reed boats. We’ll have lunch facing the sea.
• Day 5: Today we visit the El Brujo archaeological complex and the Lady of Cao. In the museum we’ll see archaeological remains such as jewelry and even well-preserved mummies.
• Day 6: Early in the morning transportation picks us up at the hotel to leave Trujillo for Chiclayo. We have the rest of the day free to explore the city at our own pace.
• Day 7: From Chiclayo, in about an hour we reach Lambayeque, where we visit one of the country’s most important museums, the “Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum,” which displays the findings of the Lord of Sipán and other elite Moche burials, as well as the Huaca Rajada archaeological site. We return to Chiclayo.
• Day 8: From Chiclayo we leave very early for Chachapoyas. Upon arrival we have the rest of the day free to rest.
• Day 9:We take a full-day excursion to the fortified citadel of Kuélap, where we’ll find ceremonial enclosures, circular dwellings, and more. This site was built before the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• Day 10: After breakfast we head to the town of Cocachimba to start an approximately 3-hour hike to the base of Gocta Waterfall, where we can take photos and even bathe in its waters.
• Day 11:Back in Chachapoyas we transfer to Jaén to board the plane that will take us to Lima.
• Day 12: Return to Lima and end of the trip.

What to see in each city

• Trujillo: Huacas del Sol and de la Luna, Chan Chan, historic center, and Huanchaco.
• Chiclayo: Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, Huaca Rajada archaeological site.
• Amazonas: Chachapoyas, Kuélap archaeological complex, Gocta waterfalls.

When it’s best to visit the north

• Trujillo: The best time is between May and November, when days are mostly sunny with a dry, mild climate.
• Chiclayo: Just like Trujillo, the best time to visit is between May and November.
• Amazonas: The best time to visit is from May to September. The weather is more stable and dry, which means lower risk of landslides on the roads. April and October are shoulder months when you can also visit normally, since only lighter showers tend to occur.

Itinerary 9 – Combined Peru + Bolivia route: Titicaca + Uyuni Salt Flats

This route is ideal for those who want to extend their trip across the Andean high plateau and combine two of South America’s most impressive landscapes: Lake Titicaca and the Uyuni Salt Flats. It’s a cultural and scenic itinerary, with high-altitude routes and well-established border crossings.

Day by day

• Day 1: Arrival and pickup in Lima. We transfer to the hotel. We have the rest of the day free.
• Day 2: We see the marine wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and ride the dunes of the Huacachina Oasis in buggies and sandboard.
• Day 3: Before leaving for Cusco, we take a city tour through different areas of Lima’s historic center.
• Day 4: Once in Cusco we start exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including places such as Pisac, the handicraft market, and Ollantaytambo. We board the train to the town of Aguas Calientes.
• Day 5: Today we visit the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu; an official tour guide will show us the best photo spots.
• Day 6: Trek to Rainbow Mountain; along the way we’ll be able to spot llamas and alpacas.
• Day 7: From Cusco’s historic center we visit Qoricancha, the Cathedral, and other Inca buildings and temples.
• Day 8: After a moderate hike we reach Humantay Lagoon, located at the foot of the Salkantay snow-capped peak.
• Day 9: We leave Cusco for Puno, traveling along the Route of the Sun with stops in Andahuaylillas, Raqchi, and La Raya.
• Day 10: In Puno we sail on the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca, and visit the floating islands of Uros and Taquile.
• Day 11: From Puno we leave Peru and enter the capital of Bolivia, La Paz, where we’ll take a city tour.
• Day 12: In the morning we arrive at the Uyuni Salt Flats, a perfect place to take very creative and fun photos.
• Day 13: We visit the historic town of Pulacayo, hot springs, and two highland lagoons where we’ll see local wildlife.
• Day 14: Upon arrival in La Paz we transfer to the hotel and have the rest of the day to rest or explore the city at your own pace.
• Day 15: Pickup and transfer from the hotel to the airport to board the flight back home. End of the trip.

Requirements and transfers

• Documentation: valid passport; some nationalities require a visa to enter Bolivia.
• Border crossing: done by land between Puno and Copacabana.
• Altitude: much of the route is above 3,800 m, so good prior acclimatization is important.
• Transport: combination of tourist buses and internal flights in Uyuni.

Who this route is best for

• Travelers who already know Cusco and Machu Picchu or want something different.
• Lovers of extreme landscapes and photography.
• People with good tolerance to altitude.
• Those looking for a cultural and nature experience off the most classic routes.

A binational route that connects the Peruvian high plateau with one of South America’s most impressive landscapes, combining Andean culture and unique natural scenery. Discover the full itinerary of the Combined Peru + Bolivia route: Titicaca and Uyuni Salt Flats.

Itinerary 10 – Peru for adventurers: trekking and nature

This itinerary is designed for travelers looking for a more active experience and direct contact with nature. It combines some of the best-known trekking routes in Peru with Andean and Amazonian landscapes, focusing on hikes, mountains, and natural environments rather than urban visits.

Tour to Salkantay, snow-capped Ausangate, Colca, and the Amazon

The route includes the Salkantay trek, one of the most popular alternatives for reaching Machu Picchu; the Ausangate circuit, known for its lagoons and high-mountain scenery; hikes in the Colca Canyon; and an extension to the Amazon, with wildlife-watching activities.

• Day 1: Pickup and arrival in Lima, then connection to Arequipa. Once we settle into the hotel we have the rest of the day free.
• Day 2: Today we get to know the White City of Arequipa, its Cathedral, the Santa Catalina Monastery, and the Church of the Company of Jesus, and we have the rest of the day to continue exploring the city at our own pace.
• Day 3: We leave the city for the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve, where we’ll see vicuñas and volcanoes from the viewpoint before reaching Chivay, where we can soak in the hot springs. We overnight in Chivay.
• Day 4: From Chivay we head to one of the most iconic viewpoints in Colca Canyon, where we’ll see the majestic flight of the Andean condor.
• Day 5: We return to the city of Arequipa to board transportation to Cusco.
• Day 6: Once in Cusco we head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pisac, handicraft market, Ollantaytambo). We overnight in this same town.
• Day 7: Very early we head to Soraypampa, where the hike becomes more intense; from there we climb up to Humantay Lagoon and then return to the camp in Soraypampa to enjoy a night in domes, a great experience for those who love stargazing.
• Day 8: Today we begin the ascent to Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the route. We’ll cross snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and cloud forests before descending to Chaullay, where we rest until the next day.
• Day 9: A warmer hike awaits us than the day before, as we head to Santa Teresa, a subtropical valley where we’ll see local flora and fauna. There we have the option to soak in the Cocalmayo hot springs.
• Day 10: We continue walking along the railway to reach the town of Aguas Calientes, where we rest and get ready for the big day.
• Day 11: From Aguas Calientes, very early in the morning we take a bus that takes us to the entrance of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. A guide will accompany us throughout the tour of the world wonder. In the afternoon we return to Cusco.
• Day 12: Early departure from Cusco to the town of Tinki, where our hike to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain begins. We’ll see high-Andean communities and the peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range.
• Day 13: The hike to Pacchanta begins, one of the most accessible and scenic sections of Ausangate. We’ll see high-Andean lagoons and herds of alpacas and llamas and stand at the very foot of the snow-capped peak. In the afternoon we relax in the Pacchanta hot springs with an impressive mountain view.
• Day 14: From Pacchanta we return to Cusco. We have the rest of the day free to rest and recharge for the next day.
• Day 15: In Cusco we start our trip to Puerto Maldonado. We transfer along the Madre de Dios River until we reach our lodge. On this first day in the Amazon we’ll see river birds, Amazonian scenery, insects, and more.
• Day 16: We start a hike through the forest to learn about the local flora and fauna, reaching Apu Víctor (an Amazon viewpoint) and Monkey Island.
• Day 17: Very early we say goodbye to this place and return by river to Puerto Maldonado, where we’ll take our flight to Lima with international connection. That’s how this adventure comes to an end.

Difficulty level

The difficulty level is moderate to high, depending on the routes you choose. Some hikes go above 4,500 meters above sea level and require good physical condition, prior acclimatization, and basic trekking experience.

Best time for trekking

The difficulty level is moderate to high, depending on the routes you choose. Some hikes go above 4,500 meters above sea level and require good physical condition, prior acclimatization, and basic trekking experience.

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to discover Peru through hikes, natural routes, and highly scenic landscapes. Discover the full itinerary of Peru for Adventurers: Trekking and Nature.

Quick comparison of the 10 itineraries

The 10 itineraries cover different travel profiles according to duration, activity level, and type of experience.
The shorter itineraries (5–7 days) focus on Cusco and Machu Picchu, ideal for quick trips.
Intermediate routes (8–12 days) combine several southern destinations and offer a good balance between culture and nature.
Longer itineraries (14–17 days) include the Amazon, the archaeological north, or combined routes with Bolivia, designed for those who have more time and want a more complete experience.

Most affordable itineraries

The most budget-friendly itineraries are usually the shorter ones focused on a single region, as they reduce internal flights and hotel nights:

• Itinerary 1 (5 days: Cusco + Machu Picchu)
• Itinerary 2 (6 days: Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu)
• Itinerary 3 (7 days: Cusco + Machu Picchu)

They’re ideal for travelers with a tight budget or those who want a first experience in Peru.

Most complete itineraries

The most complete itineraries are those that combine coast, highlands, and/or jungle, with reasonable schedules and a variety of experiences:

• Itinerary 6 (12 days: Lima, Arequipa, Titicaca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu)
• Itinerary 7 (15 days: Classic South + Amazon)
• Itinerary 10 (Trekking and nature)

These routes let you explore the country more deeply and without rushing.

Itineraries for families

For family trips we recommend itineraries with organized transfers, less physical demand, and a balanced pace:

• Itinerary 3 (7 days: Cusco + Machu Picchu)
• Itinerary 5 (10 days: Lima, Lake Titicaca, and Cusco)
• Itinerary 6 (12 days: Lima, Arequipa, Titicaca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu)

They can easily be adapted with free days and gentler activities.

Itineraries for couples

Couples usually look for cultural experiences, landscapes, and free time to enjoy the destinations at a relaxed pace:

• Itinerary 4 (8 days with Rainbow Mountain)
• Itinerary 5 (10 days: Lima, Lake Titicaca, and Cusco)
• Itinerary 7 (15 days: Classic South + Amazon)

They offer a good combination of cities, nature, and quiet moments.

Itineraries for solo travelers

For solo travelers, the best options are well-structured itineraries with guided activities and opportunities to meet others:

• Itinerary 2 (6 days: Sacred Valley + Machu Picchu)
• Itinerary 6 (Peru in 12 Days: Lima, Arequipa, Titicaca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu)
• Itinerary 9 (Combined Peru + Bolivia Route: Titicaca + Uyuni Salt Flats)
• Itinerary 10 (Adventure and trekking)

These routes simplify logistics and make it easy to meet other travelers along the way.

Tips to optimize any itinerary

Planning a trip to Peru well allows you to make better use of your time and avoid setbacks. The key is to respect distances, altitude, and the actual availability of tickets and transportation. A well-balanced itinerary combines guided visits, efficient transfers, and moments of rest.

How to avoid altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is common in destinations such as Cusco, Puno, or Colca, which are over 3,000 meters above sea level.
To reduce its effects, we recommend:

• Ascending gradually, starting the trip in lower-altitude cities.
• Resting on the first day and avoiding strenuous physical activity.
• Staying well hydrated and eating light meals.
• Drinking coca tea or traditional local infusions.

Proper acclimatization makes a big difference in the overall travel experience.

When to book trains and tickets

Some services in Peru have limited availability:

• Machu Picchu: tickets should be booked weeks or months in advance, especially between May and September.
• Trains to Machu Picchu: it’s best to buy them at the same time as the entrance ticket to ensure compatible schedules.
• Internal flights: booking ahead of time usually leads to better fares.

Planning these aspects early helps you avoid last-minute changes.

Common mistakes when planning a trip to Peru

Some of the most frequent mistakes include:

• Underestimating distances and travel times.
• Scheduling demanding activities without prior acclimatization.
• Leaving Machu Picchu or train tickets to the last minute.
• Trying to cover too many destinations in too few days.

A realistic itinerary always leads to a better experience.

Combining regions without wasting time

To connect the coast, highlands, and jungle efficiently, use internal flights for long stretches such as Lima–Cusco or Cusco–Puerto Maldonado, avoid unnecessary overnight transfers when time is limited, and prioritize nearby regions within the same geographical area.

A good combination of regions lets you discover more of the country without sacrificing comfort or pace.

Frequently asked questions about 10 recommended itineraries

What is the best itinerary for a first trip to Peru?

For a first trip, the 7- to 10-day itinerary that combines Lima, Cusco, and Machu Picchu is the most recommended. It lets you see the main highlights of the country without rushing and with good altitude adaptation.

How many days are recommended to get to know Peru?

The most complete itinerary is 12 to 15 days, combining Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, and Machu Picchu, with the option to add the Amazon. It offers a broad view of the country in both cultural and geographic terms.

Which itinerary is best for a low budget?

The most affordable itineraries are the 5- to 7-day ones focused on Cusco and Machu Picchu. They reduce internal flights and hotel nights while still covering the main attractions of the country.

Which itinerary includes Machu Picchu without rushing?

The 10- to 12-day itinerary is definitely the best option to visit Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace, as it includes the Sacred Valley, nights in Cusco, and flexible time before and after the visit to the citadel.

What is the most complete itinerary?

The 10- to 12-day itinerary is the best option to visit Machu Picchu at a relaxed pace, as it includes the Sacred Valley, nights in Cusco, and flexible time before and after the visit to the citadel.

When is it cheapest to do these itineraries?

The most economical months are usually November, January, February, and March, outside of peak season. During these months there is less demand, although it’s important to keep in mind the rainy season in the highlands.

Can several itineraries be combined in a single trip?

Yes, many itineraries can be merged or tailored, as long as travel times and acclimatization are respected. This flexibility allows you to design a custom trip based on your interests, budget, and length of stay.