Peru 10-Day Itineraries: 4 Adventures to Inspire Your Ideas
Planning a Peru 10-day itinerary? Here are 4 itineraries that cover the highlights of Peru, ensuring you experience the classic highlights while also discovering unique and diverse attractions. In addition to must-see sites like Machu Picchu, the Amazon Rainforest, and Lake Titicaca, these itineraries include off-the-beaten-path destinations and distinct activities. Pick your favorites and create your perfect Peru tour.
Itinerary #1: Highlights of Peru
This 10-day itinerary promises a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical discovery and natural beauty, taking you to Peru's most iconic wonders. Experience the vibrant capital city, the ancient heart of the Incan Empire, the enchanting Sacred Valley, the mystical Machu Picchu, the stunning Rainbow Mountain, and the serene shores of Lake Titicaca.
Route: Lima - Cusco - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Rainbow Mountain - Puno
| Day | Things to Do | Overnight |
| Day 1 - 2 | Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, Convent of San Francisco | Lima |
| Day 3 - 4 | Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, Sacsahuaman, San Pedro Market | Cusco |
| Day 5 | Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo) | Aguas Calientes |
| Day 6 - 7 | Machu Picchu Excursion, Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) | Cusco |
| Day 8 - 9 | Boat tour of Lake Titicaca, Uros floating islands, Taquile Island | Puno |
| Day 10 | Puno departure | - |
Sacsahuaman in Cusco
Your Peru highlights tour starts from Lima, where you will explore the historic Plaza Mayor, with its stunning baroque Cathedral of Lima. Visit the Convent of San Francisco, renowned for its cloisters and catacombs.
Before exploring Machu Picchu, it is advisable to spend two days in Cusco to acclimate to the high altitude. In Cusco, you can wander through the city's historic streets and discover the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and Sacsahuaman. Do not miss the lively San Pedro Market, where you can taste local delicacies and buy traditional crafts.
Journey to Pisac and Ollantaytambo, two captivating parts of Sacred Valley. Explore the charming towns with impressive Inca ruins and Pisac's famous market. Board a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. Rise early to witness the sunrise over this UNESCO World Heritage site, the awe-inspiring views and intricate stone structures will leave you enchanted.
Return to Cusco and delve deeper into its rich history. For a different kind of adventure, take a day trip to the stunning Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), known for its vibrant, rainbow-colored slopes. Your journey continues to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Here, you can take a boat to visit the unique Uros Floating Island, where the indigenous Uros people live on islands made entirely of reeds. Discover the island of Taquile also, famous for its handwoven textiles and beautiful landscapes. Wrap up your journey by flying back to Lima for your international departure.
Itinerary #2: From the Amazon to the Andes
From Peru's coastal capital to the lush Amazon rainforests and the high Andes, this 10-day itinerary takes you to discover the thrills and tranquility in the jungles and the Andes mountains.
Route: Lima - Puerto Maldonado - Cusco - Sacred Valley - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
| Day | Things to Do | Overnight |
| Day 1 | Explore Miraflores and Barranco districts | Lima |
| Day 2 - 4 | Amazon Rainforests Boat tour, Wildlife Excursion, Canopy Walk | Puerto Maldonado (Amazon Jungle Lodge) |
| Day 5 - 6 | Plaza de Armas, San Pedro Market, Cusco Cathedral, Inca Museum | Cusco |
| Day 7 | Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo) | Aguas Calientes |
| Day 8 - 9 | Machu Picchu Excursion, Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsahuaman, San Blas District | Cusco |
| Day 10 | Cusco Departure | - |
Amazon Rainforest Animals
Your adventure begins in Lima, where you can unwind and explore the vibrant Miraflores district, enjoying its parks and ocean views. For next three days, you will stay at a jungle lodge, embarking on guided excursions to spot wildlife in Amazon rainforests, explore the canopy walkways, and visit local communities. Along the river, Madre de Dios, experience the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon, from colorful macaws to playful monkeys and caimans.
After your jungle adventure, head to Cusco. Discover the historic Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, and visit the lively San Pedro Market. You can also visit the majestic Cusco Cathedral and the fascinating Inca Museum, where you will learn more about the empire's illustrious past.
Journey through the Sacred Valley, stopping at the Pisac ruins and market, and the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo. The scenic drive and these archaeological marvels offer a glimpse into the Incan civilization's grandeur and ingenuity. Board on your train to Aguas Calientes, get plenty of rest here to gear up for the upcoming Machu Picchu adventure.
You will spend a full day exploring Machu Picchu, with a guided tour highlighting its historical significance and breathtaking views. Before taking a homebound flight, make the most of your time to sightsee the city, you can visit Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun. Explore the formidable Sacsahuaman fortress with its massive stone walls, and wander through the artistic San Blas district.
Itinerary #3: Peru Adventure With Inca Trails
This 10-day itinerary is perfect for those seeking to experience the best of Peru with the added thrill of an accessible Inca Trail adventure. Spanning approximately 10 kilometers, the trail is suitable for individuals with moderate fitness levels, offering a taste of the iconic Inca Trail experience without the strenuous demands of the full trek.
Route: Lima - Arequipa - Colca Canyon - Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
| Day | Things to Do | Overnight |
| Day 1 - 2 | Plaza Mayor, Cathedral of Lima, Barranco & Miraflores districts | Lima |
| Day 3 - 4 | Santa Catalina Monastery, San Camilo Market, Colca Canyon Excursion, Cruz del Condor Lookout | Arequipa |
| Day 5 | Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsahuaman, San Pedro Market | Cusco |
| Day 6 | Sacred Valley (Pisac and Ollantaytambo) | Ollantaytambo |
| Day 7 | Short Inca Trail Hike | Aguas Calientes |
| Day 8 - 9 | Machu Picchu Excursion | Cusco |
| Day 10 | Cusco Departure | - |
Inca Trail Hike
Visit the Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima for a taste of the city's colonial history. The cliffside Miraflores district offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Arequipa, known as the "White City" due to its stunning colonial architecture made from white volcanic stone. Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery, a city within a city. Don't miss the bustling San Camilo Market, where you can sample local flavors and buy traditional crafts. Venture into Colca Canyon to witness soaring condors and breathtaking landscapes.
Journey to Cusco, acclimate to the altitude while exploring the city. Travel further to the Sacred Valley. Visit the Pisac ruins and market, where you can browse for unique handicrafts. Explore Ollantaytambo's impressive fortress, a testament to Incan engineering and strategic planning.
The starting point of the Short Inca Trail is at KM 104, it can be reached by train from Ollantaytambo. Follow your local guide along the trail that winds up and down, passing by archaeological sites like Chachabamba. The trail continues to Winay Wayna, nicknamed "Forever Young", overlooking the Urubamba River. Trekking through the forest, you will reach the Inti Punku (Sun Gate), unveiling a breathtaking panorama of Machu Picchu. Then descend to Aguas Calientes by bus.
If you are seeking a final taste of the adventure, you can take a short trip to the nearby Rainbow Mountain or the Maras salt mines and Moray circular terraces before flying home.
Itinerary #4: Peru From North to Cusco
Journey through Peru's hidden gems with this 10-day itinerary, designed to showcase the country's lesser-known wonders and unique experiences.
Route: Lima - Trujillo - Chiclayo - Cusco - Aguas Calientes - Cusco
| Day | Things to Do | Overnight |
| Day 1 - 2 | Plaza Mayor, Cathedral of Lima, Barranco & Miraflores districts | Lima |
| Day 3 | Chan Chan, Huaca de la Luna and Huaca del Sol temples | Trujillo |
| Day 4 | Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum, Tucume pyramids | Chiclayo |
| Day 5 - 7 | The Tipón Ruins, Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain | Cusco |
| Day 8 | Sacred Valley (Pisac & Ollantaytambo) | Aguas Calientes |
| Day 9 | Machu Picchu Excursion | Cusco |
| Day 10 | Cusco departure | - |
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
Lima marks the start of your adventure. Other than the famous sites, Lima is recognized globally for its unique and flavorful cuisine, so remember to choose a preferred restaurant to savor the city's culinary delights. If interested, you can also enjoy a food tour to experience Peru's renowned cuisine, including ceviche and pisco sours.
Fly to Trujillo to uncover Chan Chan, the world's largest adobe city, and marvel at the Huaca de la Luna and Huaca del Sol temples. In Chiclayo, delve into history at the impressive archaeological sites like the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum and the mystical Tucume pyramids.
Take the connecting flight to Cusco in Lima, acclimate amidst colonial splendor and explore the bohemian charm of San Blas. Discover further Tipón, known for its impressive Inca terraces and irrigation system. Explore the town of Andahuaylillas, famous for its "Sistine Chapel of the Andes". Journey to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, an off-the-beaten-path gem boasting vibrant landscapes and fewer visitors than Vinicunca.
Go to Sacred Valley to visit Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Explore the ancient ruins and the lesser-known Pumamarca ruins. Board a train to Aguas Calientes from Ollantaytambo, and relax afterward in Aguas Calientes' hot springs. The pinnacle awaits at Machu Picchu, rise early for a guided tour of this mystical citadel. Absorb its history and architecture, surrounded by cloud-kissed peaks. Make your way back to Cusco for your international departure on the last day of your trip.
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