Peru is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latin America. And it is not surprising, with all its landscapes and places to know. Therefore, this Peru itinerary will help you with your plans to come to the Andean country. And together with the specialists of Machu Travel Peru, we will give you some good advice.
You must know the most famous places in Peru, which will leave you amazed by their incredible diversity. Peru is an extraordinary mix of history, culinary delights, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventures. With this diversity, you can make spending 10 days in Peru the most unforgettable experience.
Before the trip to Peru, you can research the best things to see and do in this diverse country. This itinerary will help you plan your Peru adventure and see everything possible. Of course, this adventure is guaranteed if you plan a trip to Machu Picchu! Since the tickets tend to sell out very quickly.
Some of the best activities you can do in Peru
- Day 1: Getting to Lima
- Day 2: Exploring the Historic Center
- Day 3: Arriving at Cusco
- Day 4: Visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Day 5: Touring Machu Picchu
- Day 6: Hiking the Rainbow Mountain
- Day 7: Discovering Arequipa
- Day 8: Visiting Paracas
- Day 9: Stopping over Puno
- Day 10: Farewell
Day 1: Getting to Lima
Like many of the tours in Peru available, you will arrive in Lima. The Peruvian capital is usually the starting point of any adventure in Peru. It is a city full day of modernity and history.
Of course, we will spend the first day napping and resting. You will have had a long flight and will surely be exhausted. This way, you can physically recover and enjoy the tours during the following days in Peru. Many may choose to tour the city a bit on their own. If you feel energetic enough, you can tour the city.
The Miraflores district is famous for having some of the most traveled beaches in Peru. Barranco and Miraflores’ nightlife are also excellent options for getting to know the different touristy neighborhoods in Peru.
Day 2: Exploring the Historic Center
The second day of our adventure in Peru starts with a tour of the city’s historical area. You will find many museums with art pieces and an extraordinary collection of pottery and jewelry. You can also visit the contemporary part by visiting beautiful neighborhoods, shopping centers, and shops. Peruvian cuisine is trendy worldwide, so trying fantastic food is always good.
You can also go to the local market. There, you will find many Peruvian products. These include potatoes, fruits, corn, and more. Of course, during this time you will have the opportunity to taste all kinds of things! This is one of the best things to do in Lima.
You do not have to worry about security in Peru since you will be in central and tourist areas. So, with these Peru vacation packages, you will experience the most interesting of our culture, nature, and gastronomy!
Day 3: Arriving at Cusco
The third day will be in Cusco, the renowned Imperial City. A 45 minutes flight will get you safely to this beautiful city. The lovely city of Cusco is the main starting point to enjoy the different Machu Picchu tours.
This place sits much higher than Lima at 11,152 feet or 3,399 meters above sea level. This means that it is possible to have some problems with the altitude. But don’t worry—we have the most popular natural tea, Mate de Coca, to help you avoid some of the main symptoms.
We recommend drinking a lot of water—you will feel much better! Plus, you want to avoid discomfort ruining your day trip. Cusco has many things and places to see, and you can enjoy amazing views. During the tour, you can visit the Cathedral, an impressive colonial church and a masterpiece of Spanish construction.
You can also visit the most important archaeological sites near the city, such as Qoricancha. The Temple of the Sun is great for learning about the country’s history.
Day 4: Visiting the Sacred Valley of the Incas
On your fourth day, you will have a great Inca experience. You will have the Sacred Valley Tour, one of the most beautiful valleys in the Andes. People call it the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is because it was a great place for farming. Most crops grown there went to the nobility.
This part of your tour will be full of activities, many of which involve discovering critical archaeological sites. Along the way, you will also see crops of corn, potatoes, green beans, and other vegetables. The wonderful Sacred Valley is in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. A series of rivers descend into different valleys and streams.
You can visit Moray, Maras, Pisaq and Ollantaytambo. This valley is one of the country’s most unique and colorful landscapes. You will take a train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night. The night train is optional but highly recommended for the fantastic views. Otherwise, you will have to take it early in the morning and lose precious time visiting the ruins.
Day 5: Touring Machu Picchu
During the fifth day, you will finally have the opportunity to visit and enjoy the view of Machu Picchu. Of course, you can tour the entire complex with a certified guide. Visiting Machu Picchu is usually one of the highlights of your travel. You will start early in the morning to see one of the most spectacular sunrises that day.
But of course, it will depend on the season you decide to visit our country. The Inca citadel sits above the Sacred Valley, bordering the Amazon in Peru. In addition, you will have the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu, a well-known hiking trail. For this hike, you must purchase the tickets well in advance, as well as your entrance tickets. If you want a more adventurous alternative, you can opt for the day Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trail as alternative treks to reach the Inca citadel.
However, you should avoid it if you are afraid of heights or suffer from vertigo. Since you will be in close contact with cliffs and narrow trails. In addition, two other optional hikes are much more accessible and shorter. Machu Picchu is much more than some ruins in the middle of the clouds. The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu houses the entire complex. UNESCO named it a Natural and Cultural World Heritage Site in 1983. Many people could consider it one of the many Nature Reserves in Peru.
Explore Machu Picchu is a fantastic opportunity; it is advisable to enjoy every minute. There will be enough time for photos, but we recommend focusing on the beautiful, unparalleled views. After your visit, you will take a train back to Cusco. The visit usually proves exhausting, so upon arrival, you will return to your hotel, where you can rest, relax, and enjoy the city. The experience is worth it, and it is one of the best things to do in Machu Picchu Town.
Day 6: Hiking the Rainbow Mountain
During the seventh day, after relaxing, you will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the most popular tours of Cusco. Vinicunca Mountain, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is among the most popular and strenuous hikes. The famous Rainbow Mountain is a geological formation of unprecedented beauty. It is undoubtedly one of the many attractions that you should not miss.
As you have already spent a few days in Cusco, you will feel much more acclimatized than when you arrived. You will be in the optimal state to do this walk. You can find this mountain at the foot of Nevado Ausangate, one of the most recognized snowy peaks in Cusco.
You can feel a few symptoms of altitude sickness at the Vinicunca mountain, which sits about 5,200 meters above sea level (a little more than 17,000 feet high). Once you reach the top, you will feel like the owner of the world. It is a simply fantastic experience, and it is one of the best things to do in Cusco.
Day 7: Discovering Arequipa
Arequipa is a jewel of architecture and culture, located at the foot of the Misti and Chachani volcanoes. This city is famous for its history, which is reflected in its churches, convents, colonial monasteries, and, of course, the famous Plaza de Armas of Arequipa. So, you will take a city tour this day to get a little more into the adventure.
We should also mention that although Arequipa is located in the Andes, it has a unique microclimate due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Last but not least, if you want to live with a bit of adrenaline this day, you can enjoy trekking to the Colca or a good night out.
Day 8: Visiting Paracas
When you’re exploring the summer in Peru, a day trip to the National Reserve of Paracas is a must. People describe this beautiful place as a paradise, featuring natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities. Known for its stunning dunes and world-class marine cuisine, Paracas offers something for everyone.
Located in the Ica region, just a few hours south of Lima, Paracas boasts a desert climate with plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike. The main attractions here are the Ballestas Islands and the breathtaking dunes.
On the Ballestas Islands, you can take a boat tour to see sea lions, penguins, and a variety of seabirds. For thrill-seekers, the dunes are where the real fun begins. Whether you’re into sandboarding, kitesurfing, or windsurfing, you’ll find plenty of discovering the Peru beaches.
Day 9: Stopping over Puno
Visiting Puno is a fantastic experience. During the eight days, you can navigate the incredible Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
During the excursion, you will be part of a unique experience. You can visit the wonderful floating islands of Uros, artificial islands made entirely of reed.
In these islands, the people learned to live together and made the roots of Totora an essential element in their lives. They mainly build their homes, islands, boats, and furniture with reed cane. The Uros community lives on different islands, people who learned to live with ancient traditions and practices. Lake Titicaca is undoubtedly one of the places with incredible biodiversity in Peru.
As an alternative activity, you can visit Taquile Island, an island where another Quechua community lives. These people also continue to practice ancient customs and traditions. While relaxing in this place, you will enjoy an excellent traditional Peruvian lunch. Plus, you can explore the island at your own pace and appreciate the many views across the lake. Finally, when you finish all your different tours, our staff will take you back to your hotel in Puno.
Day 10: Farewell
Sadly, the 10th day is the last of our 10 days in Peru. During this last day, you can take your flight back to Lima and your home. Please note that you will have a little time to explore Sillustani from Puno to the airport. Sillustani is a beautiful archaeological site where you can learn a lot about the great history of our ancestors.
You can walk around the beautiful place and finally arrive at the Juliaca airport. There, you will take your flight back to Lima.
And if you are looking to visit the site, keep in mind that you will need a scheduled afternoon flight. Otherwise, you may not have enough time to marvel at this site. In the same way, you will have a few moments where you can explore the city and the surroundings on your own.
“GOD’S WILL IS NOT AN ITINERARY, BUT AN ATTITUDE.”
Once your 10 days in Peru tour is over, you may have gotten to know a small part of our country. And before your international flight, have a little time to relax and get to know our country with your eyes. We believe that within these days you will be able to get to know a small part of our country. And in these few Peruvian destinations, you will have a summary idea of what our wonderful country can offer. We hope together with the Machu Travel Peru team to have helped you with your questions. If you want to know more about our different tour packages, do not hesitate to consult with our qualified advisers.
