A 15-day itinerary is designed to travel around Peru at a relaxed pace, without rushing, and truly enjoying each destination. It is the ideal way to discover the best of Peru in 15 days, combining cities, history, gastronomy, Andean landscapes, and meaningful contact with local communities, from Arequipa and Lake Titicaca to Cusco and Machu Picchu.
It is a well-balanced plan, ideal for travelers who want to explore the country’s highlights while also having time to adapt to the altitude, rest, and enjoy authentic experiences in each place. We accompany you throughout the entire journey, organizing transfers, visits, and free time so the trip feels natural and stress-free.
Why choose a 15-day tour around Peru?
If you’re looking for a trip that combines history, nature, local culture, and gastronomy, Peru is one of the most complete destinations in the world. With 15 days available, you can travel from the Pacific coast to the Andes Mountains and the high plateau.
A 15-day tour allows you to experience Peru without rushing or overwhelming your trip. There is enough time to acclimatize, move between regions, and enjoy each visit at a relaxed pace. This itinerary is ideal if it’s your first time in Peru and you want to see the country’s most famous destinations. It also allows for a balance between guided tours and free time—something that is not always possible on shorter trips.
This tour is ideal for:
- Travelers who want a complete and unhurried itinerary.
- Nature lovers (Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Andean mountains).
- History and archaeology enthusiasts (colonial Lima, imperial Cusco, Machu Picchu).
- Travelers looking for a safe, guided, and well-organized experience.
Main destinations on a 15-day trip around Peru
On this journey, we visit some of the most representative destinations in the country. We begin in Lima, Peru’s gastronomic capital, then continue to Arequipa, where we experience life in the southern Andes and have the opportunity to observe the largest bird in South America: the Andean condor. We then head to Lake Titicaca, exploring local communities and landscapes along the shores of the highest navigable lake in the world.
In Cusco, we focus on Inca and colonial history, visiting archaeological sites and the Sacred Valley. The journey culminates at Machu Picchu, where we dedicate enough time to explore the citadel at a relaxed pace and fully enjoy the experience.
- Lima: gastronomy, colonial history, and ocean viewpoints.
- Arequipa: the White City and the impressive Colca Canyon.
- Puno and Lake Titicaca: ancestral Uros and Taquile cultures, the Route of the Sun.
- Cusco and the Sacred Valley: historic capital of the Inca Empire, Rainbow Mountain, and Humantay Lake.
- Machu Picchu: one of the modern wonders of the world.
When is the best time to take a 15-day tour around Peru?
This tour can be done year-round, but the experience changes depending on the season. We adapt the pace and activities so the journey is comfortable and enjoyable, no matter when you choose to travel.
Dry season (April – October)
During these months, we experience more stable days and clear skies, which is ideal for visiting Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, and Cusco. It’s a great time for walking, outdoor activities, and enjoying Andean landscapes. Nights can be cold, especially in high-altitude areas, so we recommend bringing warm clothing. As this is the busiest season, planning ahead is important.
Shoulder season (November – March)
During this season, the landscape becomes greener and destinations feel quieter. There may be rain, especially in Cusco and the Altiplano, but showers are usually brief and do not prevent the itinerary from being completed. The trip is organized with these conditions in mind, adjusting schedules and activities to make the most of each day. It’s a great option if you’re looking for fewer crowds and a more relaxed journey.
What type of traveler is this 15-day Peru trip for?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want to explore Peru in depth and without rushing. It works very well for couples, families with children, groups of friends, solo travelers, and healthy adult travelers who are looking for a balanced pace. It’s also an excellent option if this is your first trip to the country, as we combine guidance, rest time, and cultural experiences while always prioritizing altitude adaptation and overall well-being.
Recommended itinerary for a 15-day trip around Peru
Day 1 – Arrival in Lima
We welcome you upon your arrival in Lima and take care of your transfer to the hotel. This day is left free so you can rest from the journey, adjust to the city’s rhythm, or enjoy a first walk nearby. We’ll guide you based on your arrival time and your personal interests.
Day 2 – Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis
We depart early for Paracas to navigate the Ballestas Islands, where we observe marine wildlife such as sea lions, Humboldt penguins, seabirds, and more. We then continue to the Huacachina Oasis, where there is time to walk around, take photos, and optionally cross the dunes on buggies and try sandboarding. We return to Lima at the end of the day.
Day 3 – Lima City Tour
Today we visit Lima’s main highlights. We explore the historic center, the Love Park with its beautiful ocean views, Barranco, Huaca Pucllana, the pre-Columbian San Francisco Convent Museum, and other plazas, traditional streets, and modern areas of the city. During the tour, we share insights into history, Peruvian gastronomy, and daily life, and leave you time to explore on your own.
Day 4 – Flight to Arequipa – City Tour
After arriving in Arequipa and settling in, we head to the main square to visit the Cathedral, the Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus, the Santa Catalina Monastery, traditional city courtyards, and more. We finish at the Bolívar Bridge, where we enjoy a panoramic view of the city. It’s a relaxed day, designed to begin acclimatizing to the altitude without physical strain.
Day 5 – Chivay – Salinas National Reserve (Vicuñas)
We head toward the Colca Valley, making stops along the way at the Quiscos Uyupampa Viewpoint to admire high Andean landscapes. We also pass through the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where we can observe vicuñas in their natural habitat. Before descending to Chivay, we visit the Toccra wetlands and the Pata Pampa Volcano Viewpoint at 4,910 m.a.s.l.
Once in Chivay, we’ll have lunch and relax in the thermal baths of Chacapi and Yanque. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional dance show during dinner.
Day 6 – Colca Canyon – Arrival in Puno
We leave Chivay and travel to Cruz del Cóndor, where we can witness the flight of these impressive birds, the largest in South America. On the way, we stop at the Achomarca Viewpoint, the town of Maca, and the Choquetico Viewpoint, where we’ll see hanging tombs and large stone carvings that represent the most iconic places in the area.
We then return to Chivay via traditional villages to rest briefly before continuing our overland journey to Puno. Upon arrival, we accompany you to your hotel.
Day 7 – Lake Titicaca: Uros Islands and Amantaní
Starting at 7:00 a.m. in Puno, we transfer to Lake Titicaca to begin our boat trip. We first visit the floating Uros Islands to learn about their way of life. We then continue on to Amantaní Island, where we share time with local families. There is also the option to navigate the lake on colorful totora reed rafts, traditional boats handcrafted by the islanders.
Day 8 – Lake Titicaca: Taquile Island
After breakfast, we say goodbye to Amantaní and sail to Taquile, an island famous for its beautiful textiles and handicrafts. We walk along the island, learn about its traditions through typical dance performances, and enjoy lake views. In the afternoon, we return to Puno and spend the night in the city.
Day 9 – Route of the Sun
We travel along the Route of the Sun toward Cusco by tourist bus, making stops at historical and cultural sites such as the Pucara Museum (with a collection of more than 500 ceramic, stone, metal, and textile pieces), La Raya Pass, the Raqchi Archaeological Complex, and the Church of San Pedro Apóstol de Andahuaylillas. It’s an active travel day but well-paced, making the most of the journey to learn more about the southern Andes. By the end of the day, we arrive in Cusco, where we spend the night.
Day 10 – Sacred Valley of the Incas
In the morning, transportation will be waiting for us at the hotel entrance to first take us to Chinchero, where we will visit textile centers and its archaeological site. We then continue to the Moray Agricultural Laboratory, the Maras Salt Mines, the Pisac terraces, and its artisan market. Before continuing, we will have lunch in the heart of Urubamba. Later, we arrive at the Inca Fortress of Ollantaytambo, and from the same town we take the train that will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night.
Day 11 – Machu Picchu
We travel by bus to the entrance of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided tour of the citadel, visiting its main sectors and learning about its history alongside a guide. You will also have time to take photos at the most iconic spots along the route—don’t forget to wear a great outfit for this day. In the afternoon, we board the train that takes us back to Ollantaytambo, where transportation will be waiting to return us to Cusco.
Day 12 – Rainbow Mountain
Around 4:30 a.m., transportation will be waiting for us at the hotel entrance to begin the day’s journey. Along the way, we stop in Cusipata for breakfast, then continue by vehicle to the town of Pitumarca, where the hike begins. You have several options to reach the mountain: hiking, horseback riding, motorcycle, or ATV; the last option includes prior training so you can drive the ATV yourself. The ascent takes about 2 hours on foot with rest stops along the way. The reward comes at the summit, where the landscape is stunning and colorful—you’ll see not only the mountain itself but also distant snowcapped peaks, viewpoints, alpacas, llamas, mountain caracaras, and more.
It is essential to bring waterproof and warm clothing, as we will reach elevations above 5,000 meters. On the way back, we have lunch in Cusipata and then continue by transport to Cusco to rest.
Day 13 – Cusco City Tour
After experiencing a high-altitude adventure, this day is more relaxed, as we travel only a short distance from the city. The route includes the Plaza de Armas, Cusco Cathedral, the Temple of Santo Domingo (Qoricancha), Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. The tour lasts until midday, after which you will have the rest of the day free to rest or enjoy it your own way.
Day 14 – Humantay Lake
After a calm day, we make one final effort before the end of the trip. We depart the hotel at 4:30 a.m., traveling by vehicle to Mollepata for breakfast, then continuing on to Soraypampa, where the hike to the lake begins. The hike takes between 2 and 3 hours at a relaxed pace, though there is also the option to ride a horse. Humantay Lake is located at approximately 3,800 meters above sea level, so you should bring warm and waterproof clothing, trekking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and anything else you may need. In addition to the turquoise lake, we will enjoy views of the slopes of the Salkantay snowcapped mountain. In the afternoon, we return to Cusco to rest.
Day 15 – Departure from Peru
According to your flight schedule, we will assist you with the transfer to the airport. We conclude the trip calmly, ensuring you have an organized and hassle-free departure.
What’s Included in the 15-Day Peru Trip?
This tour is designed so you can travel with peace of mind and without worrying about logistics. We take care of organizing transfers, excursions, and the main services throughout the journey, maintaining a balance between guided activities and free time.
Includes
- 14 hotel nights distributed across all destinations we will visit
- Private transportation from the airport to the hotel and vice versa
- Train and tourist bus tickets to Machu Picchu (round trip)
- Boat tour in the Ballestas Islands and Lake Titicaca
- Dune buggy ride in the desert
- Transfers to all the places we will visit
- Private guides on all tours
- Tour to the Sacred Valley (Chinchero, Maras, Moray, and Ollantaytambo), Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lake, Lima, Cusco, the Route of the Sun, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa.
- 13 breakfasts and 5 lunches
- Domestic flights
- Flights include an 8 kg carry-on bag and a 23 kg checked bag
Does not include
- International flights
- Lunches and dinners not specified
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
Price of the 15-Day Peru Trip
The price of this tour may vary depending on the season, type of accommodation, and group size. It is generally quoted per person and includes transportation, excursions, entrance fees, and guides. To provide an exact price, we need to know the exact travel date, hotel category, and any additional services you would like to include.
You may find a reference price of USD 1,935 per person. This may vary depending on the services, season, number of travelers, travel category you choose, and any additional services or destinations you wish to include.
| Category | Price per person |
|---|---|
| Economy | USD 1,750 |
| Standard | USD 1,850 |
| Superior | USD 1,995 |
Check updated prices before booking.
Is it recommended to travel around Peru for 15 days with an agency?
Yes, it is recommended, especially if you want to make the most of each destination without worrying about logistics. Peru has many regions with different climates, altitudes, and connections, and traveling with an agency makes it easier by providing:
- Organization of transfers and excursions
- Advance tickets and passes (such as Machu Picchu and trains)Expert guides at each destination who explain the history and culture
- Assistance throughout the entire trip
- You save time on planning
This does not mean you cannot travel independently, but with an agency you reduce unexpected issues and the trip is usually more relaxed and safe.
Tips to Make the Most of a Trip to Peru
- Acclimate slowly: Drink water, rest, and avoid strenuous activity during the first few days.
- Pack varied clothing: There is cold weather in high-altitude areas and heat along the coast.
- Sun protection and water: Staying hydrated and protected is important during routes and hikes.
- Plan your meals: In some places, the time between excursions can be long, so plan snacks or lunches.
- Free time: Use afternoons to explore markets, plazas, traditional streets, restaurants, and more.
- Book tickets and entrance fees in advance: Especially for key sites on the itinerary such as Machu Picchu and trains.
- Carry cash: For local purchases at the places you will visit, as many locals only accept cash in Peruvian soles.
Benefits of Booking with Us
When you book with us, you get:
- Well-planned and realistic itineraries tailored to your interests and travel pace.
- Personalized assistance before and during the trip.
- Local guides who know each destination in depth.
- Guaranteed entrance tickets and transportation booked in advance.
- Flexibility to adapt the tour to your age, pace, or family group.
- Competitive prices with carefully selected hotels
Ready to experience the most complete journey through Peru? We take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying the trip.
