The Perfect 4-Week Peru Itinerary
Our perfect four-week Peru itinerary will guide you through this incredible South American country from north to south. When traveling from Ecuador to Bolivia, use our travel itinerary to plan your ultimate month-long Peruvian adventure and visit all the must-see places this country has to offer. Includes tips on things to do, accommodation, and tours.
As you are reading this post dedicated to creating the best Peru itinerary, we assume you have decided to visit one of the most diverse South American countries.
Peru is a country where you can, within a span of a few weeks, explore the humid jungle, hike trails snaking through Andean mountains, admire adobe or stone-made ruins, and learn about the Inca culture or observe every day, yet still authentic life of indigenous people.
No wonder that Peru has fascinated travelers for many decades (if not centuries), and the number of visitors increases every year as it has never been easier to travel to destinations far away.
Peru is a large country, and it's a fact that you would need to have months or years to cover it all.
We spent incredible two months in Peru on our year-long trip around South America and picked the best places you shouldn't miss on your journey.
There are some important things to know about Peru first, though.
Traveling in Peru is relatively safe (use your common sense as usual, especially in bigger cities), affordable, and a fair number of quality bus companies (road conditions are not that great, though) connect more or less popular destinations.
Because of the country's size, we traveled countless times by night buses, but if your budget allows, you can fly from place to place to save time and increase your comfort.
This itinerary shows a one month journey from the north of Peru to the south, the route we followed on the way from Ecuador to Bolivia.
But you can also use it (or adjust it) when traveling the opposite direction or even when you decide to spend less time in Peru.
The only thing you need to do is to choose the area you prefer (guessing you don't want to skip Cusco and Machu Picchu) and go from there. Happy planning!
PERU TRAVEL ITINERARY
Before we started writing this Peru travel itinerary, we were very well aware that many travelers do not have the luxury to spend four weeks in Peru, so the question was whether it is not better to share with our readers a shorter alternative.
But then, at least for now, we decided to put together this longer version of the itinerary.
According to us, it includes a bit of everything and should persuade all types of travelers to visit Peru; history geeks, architectural and cultural enthusiasts, or outdoor lovers.
We spent in Peru longer than one month, which means this itinerary is a result of careful thinking as based on our experience, we could carefully put together a plan we would have followed next time minus errors we had made along the way.
We arrived in Peru from Ecuador, which is why we started the journey in the northern part of the country.
Admittedly, this travel itinerary is mainly aimed at long term travelers arriving from Ecuador and heading to Bolivia or vice versa.
But feel free to get inspired even if your first destination is Lima or Cusco.
It is very easy to join any time, and follow at least a part of our itinerary. Hopefully, it will meet your preferences, budget, travel style, and must-visit places.
DAY 1: CHICLAYO
If you are arriving in Peru from Ecuador, there's a chance you will reach Chiclayo as the first destination in the country.
You can get there by bus from Cuenca, or it is possible to get as far as Trujillo, but because it would be a shame to skip next stop Chachapoyas it is better to get off here.
On the other hand, if you plan on landing in Lima, it is possible to take an overnight bus to Chiclayo and follow our footsteps from there.
No, Chiclayo is not a pretty city, but there's still a reason to make a stop there as even as little as one day in Chiclayo will give you a chance to visit two interesting sites in the town's proximity.
The first is the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipan, located in Lambayeque (about 15 minutes away by public transport from Chiclayo).
The second one is an archaeological site and museum called Huaca Rajada (about 45 minutes away by public transport).
Both places will show you the history of an ancient pre-Inca culture, the Moche civilization.
We remember that Chiclayo was nothing like we imagined.
Not sure why, but probably because of the breathtaking photos of the Peruvian Andes, we imagined that Peru would be a much cleaner country than countries we had visited before on this continent, Colombia and Ecuador.
Well, this city brought us back to reality, but in the end, we were glad we spent some time here.
And as you can see, we are pretty confident to recommend it to you for your Peru trip. The thing is, it is necessary to realize that Incas were not the only inhabitants, and many other cultures deserve attention.
One more tip. If you have made it that far north and if you have a few extra days, you might consider staying for a few days in Mancora where you can enjoy the sun, sea, and beaches.
See, you can easily spend another month in Peru without even trying.
HOTELS IN CHICLAYO
Chiclayo doesn't have the best reputation when it comes to safety. Try to stay away from the north part of the city.
The three hotels we picked are in the city center, which is considered relatively safe and within walking distance to the bus terminals.
Budget: Hostal Florida | Mid-range: Costa del Sol Wyndham Chiclayo | Luxury: Casa Andina Select Chiclayo
TOURS
Although you can visit most of the places in Chiclayo without a guide, it's always good to know that there is a possibility of an organized tour.
If you are not feeling like traveling alone for safety reasons or just want to learn more about the Moche culture, here are our picks.
Huaca Rajada and Royal Tombs of Sipan Tour | This tour from Chiclayo combines two interesting sites that are definitely worth a visit.
Sipan Royal Tombs | If you are only interested in the Royal Tombs, this tour is right for you.
DAY 2 - 3: CHACHAPOYAS
The lesser-visited part of Peru, the Northern Highlands, hide one of the most important archaeological sites in the country and also burst with natural beauty.
If time allows, we strongly recommend you include this often-overlooked region in your itinerary. There are plenty of things to do in Chachapoyas for active travelers.
Because you will arrive in the morning from Chiclayo (we did not have a problem sleeping in Peruvian buses), there will still be time to enjoy a productive day right after the arrival.
Leave your bags in a hotel and head to a local bus terminal from where you can travel to one of the highest waterfalls in Peru, Catarata de Gocta.
You can either get to San Pablo and from there hike a loop via upper and lower falls and finish in Cocachimba (this is a rewarding but slightly more challenging way), or you can follow the most common path starting and ending in Cocachimba.
Save the second day for a visit to the archaeological pre-Inca site of Kuelap.
The ancient settlement is often compared to Machu Picchu (which we think is unfair), and some visitors even claim that it is better because of the lack of crowds.
Either way, Kuelap is unquestionably a place worth a visit. You can get there with an organized tour or by public transport on your own.
Before your bus leaves in the evening, you can stop by at Canon del Sonche viewpoint. It is only 15 minutes drive by public transport from Chachapoyas, and we actually liked the view better than in Colca Canyon.
In general, Chachapoyas can also be a gateway to the Amazonas Region, so if you are hoping to visit Amazon in Peru, you can consider whether it makes sense for you to start the trip here. It's definitely an option.
HOTELS IN CHACHAPOYAS
The area around the Plaza de Armas offers a good selection of hotels and restaurants, yet it's still within walking distance from the bus terminal.
Budget: Casa Hospedaje Teresita | Mid-range: La Casa de Los Balcones | Luxury: Casona El Triunfo Hotel
TOURS
Taking a tour in Chachapoyas makes your life easier when exploring this incredibly diverse region on the edge of the Amazon.
Gocta Waterfall Hiking Tour | Hike with a local guide through the rainforest to one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
Kuelap Fortress Tour | Ride a cable car to the ancient fortress perched on top of the mountain and learn more about the pre-Inca culture that built it.
Canyon del Sonche | Visit the impressive Sonche canyon on a day tour from Chachapoyas and stop at more viewpoints along the way.
Leymebamba Museum and Revash Tour | Explore the funerary complex in Revash and then learn more about the Chachapoya and Inca cultures and see over 200 mummies in the Leymebamba Museum.
DAY 4 - 5: TRUJILLO
From Chachapoyas, take an overnight bus to the colonial city of Trujillo. Trujillo is in UNESCO, and it is one of the neatest cities in the coastal part of Peru.
The historical city center is definitely worth your time, and although there are not that many classical sights, we are pretty sure you'll enjoy walking around Plaza de Armas that features several notable buildings.
You can have a relaxed morning in the city and then take colectivo to adobe Temples of the Sun and Moon, which, at least for us, was a true highlight. Temple of the Sun and Moon is a tourist attraction that features remains of Moche civilization.
Although the Temple of the Sun is currently under reconstruction and not accessible to visitors, we are pretty sure the Moon Temple will make it up for you.
The way how people constructed the temple is really fascinating. They basically built one temple on another, so you can nowadays see several perfectly preserved layers.
The next day, visit the Chan Chan Ruins, which until now, remain the largest world's adobe city.
There's no need to take a tour as a public bus runs regularly and is very cheap. The only palace you can enter is Nik An Temple, as the restoration of the other eight palaces is still in progress.
We recommend you hire a guide by the entrance as there are no explanation boards on the grounds. It is interesting to learn about another Peruvian pre-Inca civilization, the Chimu.
In the evening, take a night bus to Huaraz.
HOTELS IN TRUJILLO
The selection of basic budget hostels in Trujillo is a bit limited. However, if you spend a little bit more on accommodation, you will find some nice hotels for an affordable price.
The city center is the best area to stay in the city.
The modern bus terminal is in the southeast corner of the city, so you need to take a taxi for a few soles to get to the city center. Needless to say, some bus companies have their private terminals.
Budget: Rado Hotel - Santa María | Mid-range: Hotel Central | Luxury: Casa Andina Premium Trujillo
TOURS
Chan Chan is another place where hiring a guide is essential. We hired a local guide at the entrance and shared the cost with another couple.
If traveling by crowded Peruvian colectivos is not your thing, consider taking the tour from Trujillo.
Trujillo and Chan Chan Tour | A guided Trujillo city tour followed by a visit to the Chan Chan archaeological site.
DAY 6 - 10: HUARAZ
Huaraz is the Peruvian hiking capital, and it is impossible to do all the beautiful treks in the area. We hope four days in the city are enough to see the main shining stars in the area and do some of the best day trips Huaraz has to offer.
The first thing you need to realize is that Huaraz sits more than 3000 meters above sea level, so take it slowly and acclimatize properly.
High altitude hiking has its specifics and you should follow some basic tips to prevent the altitude sickness. During your Peruvian trip, you will visit more places at an altitude, and you should follow these tips each time.
On the first day, right after your arrival, you should give your body time to adjust to the elevation, so explore the best things to do in Huaraz leisurely.
If you want, it is also possible to base yourself for a couple of days in one of the smaller towns nearby.
This is actually what we did. Before we stayed in Huaraz, we spent a couple of days in Caraz.
First of all, Caraz was less touristy, in lower altitude, so the acclimatization was more gradual, and we could visit from here some of the traditional treks, such as a hike to Laguna Paron, and even the most famous trek to Laguna 69.
Of course, these two hikes are also easily doable from Huaraz as well.
Once we moved to Huaraz, we made another two hikes, one to newly-discovered (by travelers) Laguna Churup, and then we took a tour to a quickly retreating Pastoruri Glacier that sits 5000 meters above sea level.
The most popular multi-day trek is the three or four days Santa Cruz Trek. We didn't do this one as we visited Huaraz in the offseason, and it rained during afternoons, but it is also an option.
In case you are following this itinerary, once you're done exploring Huaraz, take a night bus to Lima, from where you can travel by air to Iquitos, a gateway to the jungle.
Low-cost flights leave every day, and the price is reasonable even when you book last-minute (we made the reservation only two days before our departure date).
HOTELS IN HUARAZ
Huaraz is the capital city of the Ancash region, popular among backpackers and avid hikers. The city offers a wide range of good hotels for affordable prices.
The city center offers the largest selection of hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
If you decide to stay near the main square, you can get around Huaraz on foot.
Budget: Selina Huaraz | Mid-range: La Casa de Zarela | Luxury: The Lazy Dog Inn Mountain Lodge
TOURS
Although we visited the top places in Huaraz independently, it was more hassle than it's worth. Tours from Huaraz are cheap, and you don't need to worry about the transport.
Laguna 69 Tour | Laguna 69 is one of the most beautiful lakes in Peru, and it's definitely worth a visit.
Laguna Paron Tour | Take a tour to Laguna Paron and enjoy the stunning views of the Peruvian mountain lake without worrying about the transport.
Pastoruri Glacier | See the retreating glacier at an altitude of 5000 meters above sea level, admire Puya Raimondi plants, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Andes along the way.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Before you plan your trip to the Peruvian Andes, make sure your travel insurance hiking at high altitudes.
Travel smarter and safer!
DAY 11: IQUITOS
It is necessary to say that Iquitos is not the only place in Peru from where you can visit the jungle, there are a few more destinations.
Some of them are even accessible from Cusco, so read our guide on visiting Amazon in Peru and make an informed decision before you go.
Once you land in Iquitos and check in the hotel, walk to the city center and shop around to find the best tour company that will take you to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.
It is possible to reserve the tour in advance, but we found the online offer quite overpriced. However, you can read the reviews of each travel agency which is a huge plus.
On the other hand, we were on a loose schedule and had the luxury of time to choose between several tour operators. Had we been on a strict itinerary, we would have probably tried to secure the tour in advance.
HOTELS IN IQUITOS
The largest metropolis in the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos, is not connected by road with the rest of the country.
The international airport is about 9 kilometers southwest of the city center, so you need to take either a tuk-tuk or taxi to get to the neighborhoods near Plaza de Armas.
Plaza de Armas is the main tourist spot in the city. You will find plenty of hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in the area around the main square.
Budget: Hospedaje Neydita | Mid-range: Central Bed and Breakfast | Luxury: Doubletree by Hilton Iquitos
DAY 12 - 16: PACAYA SAMIRIA - AMAZON RAINFOREST
Visiting the Amazon in Peru was a dream of ours, this is why we did not want to spend there only two or three days, but we planned a much longer adventure. This is, of course, only an individual decision.
For us, it was the first visit to such a diverse place for that long, but if you've already had a similar experience, you can surely plan accordingly and make only a shorter trip.
You have two ways to travel to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. You can either stay in the lodge (outside the reserve, visit it only on day trips) or go camping in the rainforest.
After spending incredible seven days camping in Pacaya Samiria, it is no surprise that we will recommend you this option.
But seriously, if you want to experience the Amazon, observe how local people still live traditionally and have a chance to see several unique animal species, go for a multi-day camping tour.
In our opinion, three days in the jungle are not enough as it takes a quite a lot of time to get there and back. Five days will do the area justice, seven days (or even more) are better.
After your arrival back in Iquitos, take an afternoon flight to Lima.
LODGES IN THE AMAZON
Accommodation on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest is not cheap, but that's quite understandable. After all, it's a small price to pay for the remote location.
Budget: San Pedro Lodge | Mid-range: Irapay Amazon Lodge | Luxury: Amazon Muyuna Lodge
TOURS
Taking an Amazon Rainforest tour is unavoidable. Honestly, there is no single reason we would go to the jungle without a local guide.
The camping tours are basic but fun, and luxury cruises are super comfortable but expensive.
3-Day Yarapa River Cruise | Three-day Amazon tours are among the most popular ones. Experience the best of the Amazon Jungle with a local guide on tour from Iquitos.
4-Day Amazon River Luxury Cruise | If camping is not your thing and you prefer to travel as comfortably as possible, you might be interested in luxury cruises on the Amazon River. During the day, enjoy the day trips to Pacaya Samiria on a smaller boat and later relax on the upper deck.
5-Day Pacaya Samiria Camping Tour | Visit Pacaya Samiria, known as Jungle of the Mirrors, on a 5-day camping trip with local guides.
DAY 17 - 18: LIMA
After several days in the jungle, you might be looking for a city break. Although we were not somehow excited to travel to the capital city of Peru (it is too huge), in the end, we found the city center and other tourist areas such as Miraflores or Barranco district quite enjoyable.
You can read our guide on how to spend one day in Lima. Although it was a bit of a shock to arrive in Lima after one week in the jungle without seeing many people; we enjoyed the busy streets once again.
In general, when on the road, we never skip the capital city, as it often reflects the mood in the society, no matter it is often completely different from the rest of the country.
You can read our Lima travel guide to learn more about the best things to see and do and tips on how to plan your visit.
Lima is also known as a culinary capital, so do not hesitate to try new food; Peruvian cuisine was, in our opinion, the best we've had in South America.
Here, we would also like to touch on the safety topic shortly.
Even though Peru is considered a relatively safe country, you should still watch your belongings, especially in larger cities such as Lima.
Do not go out after dark alone, or rather take a cab and make sure you never wander off to an abandoned alleyway. Do not show off your valuables. It also makes more sense to stay in the more upscale district Miraflores than in Centro Historico.
If time allows, you might want to consider making a stop at Ica on the way from Lima to Nazca. The city itself is not that interesting, but it's close to the super popular Huacachina Oasis and Ballestas Islands (best visited from Paracas).
If you have been to the Galapagos Islands, then you can skip Ballestas Islands to save some time.
HOTELS IN LIMA
Lima is the second-largest city in South America. Therefore searching for accommodation might be quite a challenging task.
Miraflores is one of the most popular areas in the city. Unsurprisingly, it's also considered to be one of the safest districts in the whole city.
Barranco is a more hipster area, while Centro Historico is usually the least favorite out of three due to safety reasons.
Miraflores: JW Marriott Hotel Lima | Centro Historico: Hotel Diamond Lima | Barranco: Second Home
TOURS
Tours are a great way to learn about all Lima has to offer.
Peruvian Cooking Class | Peruvian cuisine is one of the best on the continent, and Ceviche is a meal that everyone should try while in Peru. First stop on the market to buy ingredients, later prepare your first traditional Peruvian meal under the supervision of a professional cook.
Pachacamac and Barranco Tour | Visit the districts of Barranco and Chorrillos and head out to Pachacamac archeological site to learn more about the Pre-Hispanic era.
Lima Centro Historico Tour | See top attractions in Lima's Centro Historico with a local guide.
Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis Private Tour | You can visit Ballestas Islands and Huacachina Oasis on a day tour from Lima; be prepared for a long journey, though.
DAY 19 - 20: NAZCA
From Lima, take a day bus to Nazca town, famous for mysterious Nazca Lines, large geoglyphs, and trenches that are the best visible from the plane.
Because you will arrive in the afternoon in Nazca, book your flight first and then visit, for example, aqueducts or Chauchilla cemetery close to the town.
Our travel tip is to book the earliest flight as the visibility is the best in the morning and the wind picks up later during the day.
The best way is to hire a driver as getting around by public transport is not that straightforward, especially if you want to visit more than one destination.
We know that Nazca is mostly known only because of the Nazca Lines, but we've also written a Nazca travel guide to give you an idea of how to spend here time pleasantly before you board the plane.
The next day tour company will pick you up and drive you to the small airport.
You can read more about our flight over Nazca lines in our detailed post.
In short, prepare to get mind-blowing views, but to get them, the pilot needs to take several sharp turns to ensure that all passengers see well, so hold tight, and in case you are easily motion sick, take some motion sickness pills and do not eat much before the flight.
Nazca Lines flight was over our budget, but this time, we decided not to worry about it as we did not want to miss this adventure, and glad we did not.
If you're traveling on a strict budget, it is good to know there's an alternative to climb a viewing tower and see fractions of the lines and geoglyphs.
To be honest, we would not bother stopping in Nazca only for that, because the experience is not worth it. The full beauty of the lines is really revealed from a bird-eye view.
In the evening, take a night bus to Cusco.
At this point, you can follow our itinerary and head out to Cusco first. This direction makes sense if you want to continue to Bolivia right after your Peruvian adventure.
In case you need to get back to Lima by the end of your trip, you might want to follow a more classic way and visit Arequipa and Lake Titicaca first. And only after that, head to Cusco.
HOTELS IN NAZCA
Nazca is quite compact and easily covered on foot. We would stay in the city center (near the Plaza de Armas), which is close to the bus terminal, most of the hotels and restaurants.
Budget: Nasca Travel One Hostel | Mid-range: Hotel Sol del Sur | Mid-range: Casa Hacienda Nasca Oasis
TOURS
We believe that the watching tower can't compete with the flight over Nazca Lines, and the tour is worth every penny.
Nazca Lines Flight | Enjoy the fascinating Nazca Line from the birds-eye view, and see unique geoglyphs such as the Monkey, Condor, Spider, or Astronaut.
DAY 21: CUSCO
Cusco is the top Peru destination and one of the places we are certain every traveler has on the itinerary. If Cusco doesn't ring a bell, then you might want to know that the city is considered a gateway to Machu Picchu.
The truth is, there are so many things to do in Cusco and so many day trips from Cusco, that when short on time, it is even possible to spend here your entire holidays.
After arrival to Cusco, spend at least a day walking around the historical center, which should help you with another acclimatization, plus it is, of course, very rewarding.
Feel free to get inspired by our 7-Day Cusco itinerary.
Cusco lies almost 3400 meters above sea level, and if you plan on doing some hikes and trips in its surroundings, you should be adjusted to the higher altitude.
Acclimatization is essential in order to enjoy your time in Cusco. Take things slowly, drink plenty of water, and stay active.
Cusco is also a perfect place to arrange tours - some of the places are pretty easy to visit independently, while others are well-accessible with an arranged transport.
Once you check-in at the hotel, head to Centro Historico.
The center of the city is very lively, but it still keeps its charm despite popularity and size, so make sure you do not skip places such as Plaza de Armas, San Blas district, or San Pedro market.
If you're looking for a great acclimatization trip, consider walking to Sacsayhuaman Ruins perched above Cusco.
It is also helpful to read the information on Boleto Turistico, which is a ticket that includes some of the top attractions in Cusco and near surroundings. For some, it is too expensive, but we used it to its full potential.
Again, Cusco deserves your time, so you might want to stay there as long as possible. The fact that we stayed in the area for three weeks illustrates how captivating this region can be.
HOTELS IN CUSCO
Cusco is a major tourist hub and has a wide selection of hotels ranging from cheap hostels to mid-range hotels or luxury colonial mansions.
Centro Historico is the most obvious area to stay in Cusco. It's where most of the city's accommodation is located.
You can either walk from the Terminal Terrestre to the city center or take a taxi for a few soles.
Budget: Cusco Bed and Breakfast | Mid-range: Tierra Viva Cusco Centro | Luxury: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco
TOURS
There is a travel agency behind every corner in Cusco. However, choosing a good tour operator is sometimes a bit trickier than it looks.
Cusco City Tour with Inca Sites | Explore top attractions in the Cusco's Centro Historico, and later visit Sacsayhuaman and three other Inca ruins along the way.
DAY 22: SACRED VALLEY
The Urubamba Valley, which stretches for over 100 kilometers between Cusco and Inca's sacred citadel Machu Picchu, is one of the most beautiful and historically significant areas in entire Peru.
Also known as the Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado de Los Incas in Spanish), this region will leave you speechless.
No wonder that some travelers when in Peru for shorter period spend all their time in this area.
To visit the most attractive places, you can either take a tour, or you can travel on your own by public transport, but it is good to know that in this case, you will be in one day able to visit just a fraction of the top sights.
We did a combination of both. For example, we visited Pisac Ruins from Cusco independently, and then we joined tours that took us to Ollantaytambo Ruins, Moray Ruins, Chinchero, or the outstanding Maras salt mines.
To get the best idea of what you can do in Sacred Valley, read our practical Sacred Valley guide.
Sacred Valley is dotted with terraces, ruins, and the Urubamba River and hills create a really unique environment - if possible, spend here more than one day.
HOTELS IN THE SACRED VALLEY
If you find Cusco too loud and busy, you might want to consider staying in one of the hotels in the valley.
There are several small towns and villages scattered across the Sacred Valley, so there's plenty of options to choose from.
Ollantaytambo: Sol Miranda | Urubamba: Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado Hotel | Pisac: Pisac Inca Guest House
TOURS
Getting around the Sacred Valley on your own can be time-consuming or even expensive in case you take a taxi.
Most importantly, you would miss the best part that makes this region so special; learning about the rich Inca history from the local guides.
Sacred Valley Tour | The classic Sacred Valley tour from Cusco takes you on an epic journey back in time. Enjoy the best of the Cusco area and learn more about Inca history from a local guide.
Moray, Maras Salt Mines and Weaving Center | Sacred Valley features some incredible Inca Ruins but also ancient salt mines and fascinating weaving culture.
Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour | If you are tired of traditional tours, consider this exciting ATV tour.
DAY 23 - 26: INCA TRAIL
Trekking near the Cusco area is something you can't miss. At least according to us, as we are avid hikers. In case you do not feel this way, no worries.
It is possible to explore the ruins in Cusco's surroundings more thoroughly, make a day trip to Humantay Lake, stay in Sacred Valley to get a closer insight into local life, or you can dedicate more time to visiting Machu Picchu or any other destination in Peru.
There are many treks you can choose from, but only one ends in the lost city of Machu Picchu.
The 4-Day Inca Trail is one of the most popular treks in the world, which leads through the beautiful landscape and passes by several ruins on the way to Machu Picchu.
As you can see, the trek is really exceptional, also because it ends at Sun Gate, but another point is that you will have the chance to walk on the stony path made by Incas.
If you have an opportunity to plan ahead and make a reservation several months in advance, this will be the cherry on the top of your Peruvian itinerary.
The only downside is the price and the fact you need to commit to date a long time in advance because the government applied strict rules, and there's a limit of how many people can trek this trail daily—one more thing.
The Inca Trail cannot be hiked without a guide and porter, so make sure this suits you well.
Here is a useful hiking tip. Traversing up and down the Peruvian Andes can be hard on your knees; make sure to have trekking poles.
The other multi-day hike you can consider doing is the classic 5-Day Salkantay Trek.
During this trek, you will be amazed by a spectacular mountainous landscape, and although it does not end right by Machu Picchu but in the town nearby Aguas Calientes, you won't be disappointed.
Salkantay Trek was often considered as a budget alternative to the Inca Trail, but we would say it is just different.
The landscape is impressive, there are only not ruins along the way (except for one small), and it does not end precisely in Machu Picchu, which we did not take as a disadvantage.
We had an opportunity to do both hikes, so in case you're hesitant about which one to choose, read our in-depth comparison of Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek.
TOURS
It's compulsory to hike the Inca trail with a guide.
4D/3N Inca Trail | A classic Inca Trail is one of the best treks in the world. Only 500 hikers (including guides and porters) are allowed on the trail each day, so you should book Inca Trail at least six months in advance due to high demand.
2D/1N Inca Trail | A short version of Inca Trail might be a perfect choice for travelers short on time.
5D/4N Salkantay Trek | Salkantay Trek is a popular choice among travelers who want to enjoy the Peruvian Andes without breaking a bank.
4D/3N Lares Trek | Lares Trek is another exciting alternative to Inca Trail.
DAY 27: MACHU PICCHU
No visit to Peru is complete without seeing the UNESCO site of Machu Picchu, one of the world's new seven wonders.
When traveling, you might notice that some places are sometimes over-hyped, but it is definitely not this case.
No matter how many times you've seen the classic picture of Machu Picchu, you'll still be absolutely blown away when standing on the viewing platform overlooking the archaeological site (and you can trust us as we visited the site twice within one week).
There are several ways to visit Machu Picchu.
You can do it both independently (buy your ticket well in advance) or as a part of the tour.
If you plan on hiking, you will likely arrange a guided tour, and in this case, you do not need to buy your tickets for Machu Picchu as they are often included (always double-check).
If hiking is not an option for you, then you can even take a day-tour from Cusco, which is often a combination of van drive and walk, or take a train to Aguas Calientes.
We always hiked to Machu Picchu and then returned to Cusco by train, but no matter what alternative you choose, we're sure it is going to be awesome.
As rules and regulations change often, we've put together a post on everything you need to know before visiting Machu Picchu to help you plan this ultimate adventure.
The Machu Picchu Ticket is best to be secured in advance, especially if you travel in the main season, so always make sure you select the right option.
It is possible to see only the citadel or combine it with a climb either on Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu.
HOTELS IN AGUAS CALIENTES
There is something for every level of comfort and budget in Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Here is our list of the best hotels in the village.
Budget: Hotel Machu Picchu Inn | Mid-range: Susanna Inn Machu Picchu Hotel | Luxury: Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
TOURS
Machu Picchu is one of those places where you should hire a local guide to get the most of your trip.
Machu Picchu Tour | Explore Machu Picchu on a guided tour from Aguas Calientes. The tour also includes tickets and a shuttle bus.
Machu Picchu Tour from Cusco | If short on time, take an organized tour from Cusco that includes the famous archaeological site and a scenic train ride.
DAY 28: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
When you arrive back in Cusco, another place you shouldn't miss is a hike to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
Rainbow Mountain is a new addition to every traveler's itinerary, and the reason we kept it for the last day in Cusco is the fact the site is located really high in the mountains, and it is not advised to visit it without proper acclimatization.
The highest point on the Rainbow Mountain hike sits at an altitude of 5000 meters above sea level, so it is better to do it after a couple of days in Cusco or after one of the multi-day hikes to Machu Picchu to prevent the altitude sickness.
The most popular day trip from Cusco is spectacular, especially when it is sunny as the sun highlights the colorful stripes. The trail itself is not that hard; only the last section is pretty steep.
As there's no public transport, it is recommended to take a tour from Cusco. The van will drop you off near the trailhead, and then it is about a two-hour-long hike to the viewing platform.
Do not expect to have this place just for yourself, so set your expectations right. If possible, opt for the combination that includes the visit to Red Valley; we found it even more interesting than the Rainbow Mountain itself (and much less crowded).
HOTELS IN CUSCO
Once you return to Cusco, you can stay in the same hotel as before.
Budget: Cusco Bed and Breakfast | Mid-range: Tierra Viva Cusco Centro | Luxury: JW Marriott El Convento Cusco
TOURS
Tours are the cheapest way to get to Rainbow Mountain. Otherwise, you can take a taxi to get there.
Unfortunately, there is currently no public transport to Rainbow Mountain.
Rainbow Mountain Tour | Hike in the Andes with a local guide and see the incredible Rainbow Mountain on an organized tour from Cusco.
Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Tour | Red Valley hike is overshadowed by the Rainbow Mountain, but we believe it's worth it.
DAY 29: AREQUIPA
It is easy to get from Cusco to Arequipa with an overnight bus. Thanks to it, you will have time to explore Arequipa, one of Peru's most beautiful cities, right after your arrival.
Arequipa has welcoming weather, pretty main square lined with colonial buildings, but the main highlight of our time was a visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina.
Arequipa is known as White City because of the white-washed buildings in the city center, but the blue and red houses and cobblestone streets in the monastery blew us away.
Although Arequipa is quite a large city, it does not feel that way, and it is quite common that travelers keep extending their time here.
Moreover, the surroundings are pretty spectacular, so make sure to book a hotel with a rooftop terrace, so you can enjoy views over three volcanoes towering around.
HOTELS IN AREQUIPA
Arequipa is a large city, but the area around Plaza de Armas is the main point of interest.
The bus terminal is about three kilometers south of the historical center, so it's better to take a taxi to get there.
Budget: Holidays Hostel Arequipa | Mid-range: Casa de Avila | Luxury: Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
TOURS
Make the most of your trip to Arequipa, and learn more about its rich and fascinating history from a local guide.
Or try something completely different and learn to cook some traditional Peruvian meals.
Arequipa City Tour | Visit the Monasterio de Santa Catalina and other top attractions in the historical part of Arequipa with a local guide.
Peruvian Cooking Class | Lima is not the only place where you can take a cooking class. Visit a local market, buy ingredients, and learn to make a typical Peruvian meal ceviche and more.
Monasterio de Santa Catalina Ticket | Here, you can purchase Santa Catalina Monastery admission ticket in advance.
DAY 30: COLCA CANYON
The next day, take a day tour to Colca Canyon to see one of the world's deepest canyons in the world and condors in flight. You can also hike in the canyon for two or three days in case you have spare time.
Or you can climb one of the volcanoes near the city. But back to Colca Canyon.
The entrance fee is pretty steep, but we thought it was one of the places we could not miss. The canyon's depth is truly mind-blowing, but the bus ride from Arequipa to Colca Canyon is worth mentioning as well.
TOURS
The easiest way to get to Colca Canyon is with a guided tour from Arequipa.
There are plenty of travel agencies near the Plaza de Armas. You can also book the tour through the hotel or make a reservation in advance.
Colca Canyon Day Tour | A classic Colca Canyon day tour that includes all essential stops along the way.
2-Day Colca Canyon Tour with Transfer to Puno | This 2-day Colca Canyon tour also includes a transfer to Puno (a city on the shores of Lake Titicaca), so you don't have to return to Arequipa.
DAY 31: LAKE TITICACA
We know this Peru itinerary was pretty packed, but there's one more place we would like you to visit.
If you have a chance, only six hours by bus from Arequipa lies Puno from where you can admire Lake Titicaca, the birthplace of the Sun and the highest navigable lake in the world.
It is worth waiting for the sunset over the lake, but we found the best thing to do to jump on the boat and spend some time on the water.
If you have no plan of crossing borders to Bolivia, then Puno is the place to go. Otherwise, we would continue to Bolivia and visit the lake from there, as it's a little bit cheaper.
We visited Lake Titicaca from Copacabana on the Bolivian side as it also offers better hiking opportunities.
From Puno, you can cross borders to Bolivia and continue your adventure towards La Paz, or you can get back to Cusco, from where you can catch a flight back home, probably with a stopover in Lima.
HOTELS IN PUNO
Puno offers great hotels for every kind of traveler. Try to book a room with a lake view to watch the fantastic sunsets over Lake Titicaca.
Budget: Inka's Rest | Mid-range: Sol Plaza Hotel | Luxury: Titicaca Lodge Peru
TOURS
Although you can visit some places on Lake Titicaca independently, a guided tour makes everything smoother.
Uros Islands and Taquile Island Tour | Visit the floating islands and watch the local life of indigenous Uros people, then sail on Lake Titicaca to Taquile Island and learn more about local traditions and culture.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
