The Ultimate Peru Itinerary | Everything you need to know
Share my ultimate itinerary and useful information to help make your trip unforgettable.
Day 1 : Airport transportation + SIM card
We flew with Latam Airlines from LAX to Lima, arriving at midnight. It took about 45 minutes to pass through customs. Afterwards, we bought a Peru SIM card at the airport, conveniently located near the taxi booth after exiting baggage claim. Since we needed internet access for navigation and were heading to another city early the next morning, the Peru SIM was our choice, not just because it was the only option at the airport, but also due to its reasonable prices, and it cost the same in the airport and the city.
Another way to get your internet access is purchasing an e-sim card in advance, with the e-sim card, you can easily switch service on the setting without taking off your SIM card which decrease the change to lose it while travel, you can choose the package you like reload when necessary.
Outside the airport, we were approached by many taxi drivers offering rides. I had read about issues with Uber not operating at Lima airport, and some tourists being asked to cancel rides and pay cash directly. Fortunately, we didn’t face any problems and were able to take Uber smoothly.
Day 2-4 : Paracas + Huacachina + Lima
Paracas
We embarked on an early journey from Lima to Paracas, a charming town boasting a stunning coastline and desert vistas. While there are plenty of one-day tour options available from Lima, I suggest considering an overnight stay in Paracas if time allows. Here are some popular activities to consider:
Just a little reminder, Paracas is known for its seafood, If you’re excited to try Paracas’ seafood, just be careful with what you order. I felt a bit sick after my first dinner, and it wasn’t fun. Pick your food wisely to enjoy your time in Paracas!
Huacachina
After enjoying breakfast at the guest house, we took a one-hour bus ride to Ica, followed by a 15-minute taxi trip into Huacachina. Here, you’ll need to negotiate with the driver. We ask the staff in hostel, they suggested 15 soles as a reasonable price.
In Huacachina, there are popular activities readily available through hostels or street tour agents.
Entrance Fee for Dune
Free Entry
I highly recommend staying in Huacachina for a night to fully enjoy both sunset and sunrise. You can walk along the oasis to relax or spend the afternoon in the pool, which I think is totally worth it!
Tips planning your trip
You might also consider opting for a bus provider such as Peru Hop (www.peruhop.com) for your travel needs, as they offers transportation and sightseeing opportunities. Peru Hop’s buses are renowned for their cleanliness and safety, making them a reliable choice. Plus, their operations are efficiently managed, making them a recommended option.
Lima
The journey back to Lima involves a long 5-hour bus ride, so it’s smart to pack some snacks before heading to the bus station. Be prepared for unexpected delays; during our journey, we faced a 30-minute delay at departure, and despite trying to communicate using Google Translate, we couldn’t figure out the reason due to language barriers. It’s important to consider such delays when planning your travel time.
– Where to stay in Lima
For accommodations in Lima, I highly recommend staying in the lively Miraflores district. Known for its diverse culinary scene, Miraflores offers plenty of dining options, from casual street food to upscale restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to taste authentic Peruvian cuisine!
– What to do in Lima
While exploring Miraflores, take advantage of its attractions. Begin with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque boardwalk, where you can engage in various activities such as paragliding, jogging, or cycling along the Malecón de la Reserva. Alternatively, indulge in some shopping at the popular Larcomar shopping center before relaxing on the nearby beach. Here, you can try surfing, paddleboarding, fishing, or sailing.
– How to get to Lima Airport
Another advantage of staying in Miraflores is its convenient access to airport transportation. Opt for the shuttle bus service (check timetable here), the most cost-effective and secure option, with fares starting from 15 soles (approximately USD 4). Keep in mind that Lima’s traffic can be heavy, so the 45-minute ride to the airport may take longer during peak hours.
Day 5-6 : Arequipa
Arequipa
Take an early flight from Lima to Arequipa, a city surrounded by volcanoes and known as the “White City” for its architecture built with white volcanic stone called “sillar.” I stayed here for 24 hours and wished I could extend my stay after visiting personally. Arequipa offers plenty of hiking activities, one of the popular hikes is Colca Canyon Trek, the world’s second deepest canyon. Unfortunately, due to limited time, I didn’t get to visit, but I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. Arequipa is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Peru, and it’s worth your time to explore it!
Here I am sharing some photo spots in Arequipa:
Santa Catalina Monastery:
This historic site is famous for its colorful buildings made from volcanic ash. As you wander through its streets and courtyards, you’ll be amazed by the vibrant colors and beautiful architecture, offering a peek into the city’s past.
Plaza de Armas Arequipa:
This central square is a hub of activity, offering a picturesque setting for photography, especially during sunset when the golden light illuminates the historic buildings. Waya Lookout, a bar I found in the plaza, offers access to their rooftop for the perfect photo spot to capture the beauty of the plaza and its surroundings.
Mundo Alpaca:
Feed and pet alpacas at this free attraction while learning how clothes are made from their high-quality fur. You can also purchase high-quality products from the shop.
Yanahuara Scenic Overlook:
When I visited, it was cloudy, so I couldn’t capture a photo of the peak of Misti Volcano. This spot is one of the most popular photo spots in Arequipa, so expect crowds.
As you explore the area, you might be pleasantly surprised to discover your favorite photo spots.
In addition to these photo spots, Arequipa is full of hidden cafes and restaurants waiting to be discovered. Consider spending 2–3 days in Arequipa to fully appreciate its beauty and charm, as there’s always something new to discover around every corner. Check out my post: 6 Things to do in Arequipa and know more about this city.
Day 7-8 : Cusco
Cusco
– Overnight bus
Instead of opting for a quick one-hour flight to Cusco, we decided to take a 10-hour overnight bus with Cruz Del Sur because of their good reputation for safety and punctuality. However, it turned out to be a decision we regretted. Firstly, be mindful that the bus terminal is located here in Arequipa, and all tourists, regardless of advance ticket purchase, are required to pay a tourist fee $3 soles—a unique requirement we were unprepared for. Additionally, the bus’s air conditioning malfunctioned during the last two hours of the journey, making for an uncomfortable ride. To top it off, the bus arrived two hours behind schedule, which could potentially disrupt tightly planned itineraries. In hindsight, I’d recommend opting for a flight to Cusco, as a well-rested start can help mitigate altitude sickness.
– Uber in Cusco
After the tiring bus ride and experiencing minor altitude sickness, we were too exhausted to haggle with taxi drivers, so we decided to use Uber. It was the first time a driver asked us to cancel the ride and pay cash, but too tired to argue, we agreed to the deal. Thankfully, the rest of the ride went smoothly. On our way to Cusco airport, we used Uber again without any problem. Despite the initial hassle, I’d still recommend Uber as a transportation option. While there are taxi companies in Cusco, knowing some Spanish can help you communicate and negotiate better.
– What to do in Cusco
Here, I want to talk about some places I visited in Cusco:
Attractions
Plaza De Armas
San Pedro Market
Piedra de los 12 angulos
(Twelve Angled Stone)
Plaza San Blas
Arco De SANTA ANA
Mirador de Plaza San Cristobal
(view point)
Cafe
L’atelier Cafe Concept
Florencio y Fortunata Cafe
Cercania Pan y Cafe
Restaurant
Supermarket
Cusco has so much more to offer for exploration. Check out my post: Unlocking Machu Picchu in 2024 | Tickets, IncaRail, and Insider Tips and know more about this city.You can fully immerse yourself in the city’s history with a guided tour or enjoy the vibrant shopping scene, where you can haggle with local vendors. During our week-long stay in Cusco, we discovered that the city is filled with many steps, so it’s essential to choose your accommodation wisely. Climbing up to your lodging after a long day of hiking isn’t ideal. However, if you’re like me and don’t mind a little walking, San Blas is a charming and safe neighborhood for tourists to stay in. I spent the first two nights there, and the uphill climb was definitely worth it for the breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere.
Day 9-10 : Sacred valley+ Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley
Chinchero
Moray
Salt Mines
Ollantaytambo
Chinchero Art Center
When exploring Sacred Valley, you have various options depending on your budget. You can join a local tour, hire a taxi, or private tour. Opting for a day tour, we embarked on a journey to Chinchero, Moray, the Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo. Before returning to Cusco, we requested our guide to drop us off at Ollantaytambo train station for our journey to Aguas Calientes.
With around 12 people in our group, each attraction allowed us only 10 minutes of free time. This felt rushed, especially considering the crowds at each stop. However, given the considerable distances between attractions and our priority of reaching Machu Picchu with minimal hassle, the pace was understandable. For those seeking a more leisurely experience of Sacred Valley, opting for a private taxi might be preferable.
Machu Picchu
Aquas Calientes
Before heading to Machu Picchu, we spent a night in Aguas Calientes. I recommend arriving in town before 7 PM to purchase bus tickets for the next day, as the ticket office closes at 8 PM and there’s usually a long line for the morning ride up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. We had booked a 7 AM ticket (with an hour window to enter) and our hostel staff advised us to join the line at 6 AM, which turned out to be perfect timing.
Waiting line for the bus
Follow the sign to get in line
Aguas Calientes
Weather in Machu Picchu
Weather is worth mentioning, especially since we traveled during the rainy season, and Cusco’s weather is very unpredictable. It poured the night before our Machu Picchu visit, making us worried about visiting in the rain with slippery conditions and poor visibility. However, it turned out to be absolutely gorgeous in the morning. While weather is beyond your control and tickets cannot be changed or refunded, it might be better to visit during the dry season for more favorable conditions. However, one benefit of the rainy season is lower accommodation costs and fewer crowds.
Ticket for Machu Picchu
Starting from 2023, the ticket policy changed, dividing tickets into five different routes. If you plan to visit the signature photo spot and hike Huayna Picchu simultaneously, you’ll need to purchase two different tickets. More information is available on the official website. We chose circuit 2 for the famous photo spot and covers most of the places we wanted to visit. Regarding the best time to visit Machu Picchu, after much research, I found that the afternoon could be better to avoid crowds, as most tours visit between 9 AM and 12 PM. However, we chose 7 AM to avoid both large tour groups and sunrise tourists and hikers. Based on my experience, photo spots will likely be occupied, sometimes by tour groups when guides are explaining, so patience is key. We optUmbrellas and tripods are not allowed.
Urubamba River
Hiking Trail to Machu Picchu
Huayna Picchu Trail Entrance
There’s much more to discuss about Machu Picchu, here are some important tips to share before planning your trip:
Day 11-14 : Rainbow mountain + Humantay Lake
Rainbow Mountain
Our tour (Rainbow Mountain BEFORE the crowds + Red Valley) started at 3 am, a time I highly recommend to enjoy the view without crowds. We were fortunate to have a small group of 7 people, allowing for an on-time departure and plenty of free time at the summit, which was truly enjoyable.
The tour included breakfast and lunch, which exceeded my expectations. After a 2-hour drive, we had a quick breakfast before navigating the winding, muddy road to the entrance. Near the entrance, I spotted a group of Alpacas, which was a therapeutic sight. Luckily, there was no rain that day, and the sun seemed ready to break through the clouds.
To reach the summit, you have two options: hiking for about 1.5 hours or hiring a horse or motorcycle. If you choose the latter two, they will take you to a point from where you’ll hike the last part to the summit. Before starting, we did a short hike to assess our physical condition. Our tour guide, with over 10 years of hiking experience, was honest with us about the risk of altitude sickness and encouraged us to take a motor ride if necessary. Surprisingly, 7 of us opted for the motorcycle, as I personally found it challenging to breathe while hiking at high altitude. In less than 30 minutes, we all reached the starting point for the summit hike, making waking up at 2 am totally worth it to be the first group there!
After a short hike, we reached the summit, which stands at 5,036 meters above sea level. Another highlight on the peak was cuddling or taking pictures with the friendly alpacas. Their soft fur and adorable demeanor made them irresistible. We tipped the locals 5 soles for the picture, and it became one of my favorite photos from my trip to Peru.
Words couldn’t express my feelings when I saw Rainbow Mountain in person. Some parts of the mountain were covered in snow, giving the place a different look, and I still felt fortunate to witness the natural beauty of Peru during raining season!
Know before you go during raining season
Another important consideration was the unpredictable weather, especially during the rainy season. While in Cusco, it had been raining for a week, making me uncertain about the tour. Despite consulting a tour agency, they couldn’t guarantee anything about the weather. Weather forecasts weren’t reliable at such high altitudes, as I immediately understood when our guide showed us a photo from the previous day, with the mountain blanketed in snow.
Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake, nestled among the Humantay and Salkantay Mountains, draws attention with its vibrant blue and green waters. Fed by glacier melt, these colors contrast beautifully with the snowy peaks, creating a stunning sight.
It took about 4 hours to reach the base of the mountain, including a breakfast break along the way. During the hike, which spans altitudes between 3,800m to 4,200m, it usually takes around 1.5 hours to reach the summit. However, this hike demands a certain level of physical fitness due to its steepness and high altitude. Alternatively, you can opt to ride a mule, but note that due to the rocky terrain, mules and horses can only go about halfway up the trail.
While we were eager to visit this spot, heavy rain and road closures prevented us from doing so. If you’re planning to visit Humantay Lake, consider the possibility of rain, and I’m excited to return again in the future! For more information about this hike, you can check out this website.
Tips for planning your trek in Peru
For those who love hiking, Peru boasts numerous mountains for exploration. Planning your trek wisely in Peru is essential, considering rest days between hikes, as most trails require early starts and long drives, not to mention physical endurance. Opting for a guided tour in Peru is advisable, with an expert guide leading the hike and an experienced driver ensuring safe transport. Instead of searching multiple travel agencies online, I chose to book through Viator, a platform offering over 300,000 experiences in Peru. This allowed me to easily find a suitable Peru tour and access customer service if needed, along with the bonus of free cancellation for added flexibility.
Wow this was very interesting and informative! I had no idea that Peru would be this cool. You did a very good job with this! I’m impressed:) you take the coolest pictures ever ! I wish I could hire you as my photographer