Peru Itinerary in 10-14 Days: the Complete Route

This is the route we recommend to travelers who want to see "the best of Peru" without feeling like they're rushing the whole trip.

Days 1-3: Lima

• Day 1: arrival, historic center (Plaza Mayor, cathedral, colonial mansions).
• Day 2: Miraflores and Barranco, gastronomy (ceviche, causa, pisco sour).
• Day 3: afternoon flight to Arequipa.

Days 4-6: Arequipa and the Colca Canyon

• Day 4: Arequipa city (Santa Catalina Monastery, white volcanic-stone center).
• Day 5: transfer to the Colca Canyon, condor viewpoint.
• Day 6: back to Arequipa, flight to Cusco.

Days 7-8: Acclimatization and Sacred Valley

• Day 7: arrival in Cusco (3,399 m), easy acclimatization day, short city tour.
• Day 8: full Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras-Moray). See things to do in the Sacred Valley.

Days 9-10: Machu Picchu

• Day 9: train to Aguas Calientes, overnight there for an early entry.
• Day 10: full Machu Picchu, return to Cusco in the afternoon/evening.

Days 11-12 (if you have 12+ days): a mountain excursion

• Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake, depending on your fitness level and preference.

Days 13-14 (if you have 14 days): buffer and city time

• Free time in Cusco (Qorikancha, San Blas, markets), or an extra buffer day for flight or health surprises.

Why this order and not another

Starting with Lima (sea level) → Arequipa (2,335 m) → Cusco (3,399 m) is a gradual altitude progression, much friendlier on the body than flying straight into Cusco from sea level. See our altitude sickness guide for details.

Want us to tailor this route to your dates and budget? Reach out.

Frequently asked questions

Is 10 days enough to see all this?

Yes, though 14 days gives more buffer for the unexpected and for rest, especially regarding altitude.

Is it better to fly or bus between cities?

Flying saves a lot of time between Lima-Arequipa-Cusco; buses are only an option if you have extra time and prefer to see the scenery.

What's the best order for the route?

Lima → Arequipa → Cusco allows gradual altitude acclimatization, better than flying straight into Cusco from sea level.