This exploration of ancient and modern Peru starts with Lima—and a spectacular flight over the Nazca Lines. You'll then make your way north to tour the Mochica and Tucume pyramids, along with the mud-brick city of Chan Chan. Drive inland to the Amazonas region to see the "Machu Picchu of the North" before walking in the footsteps of the Incas in Cusco. Top it all off with a private tour of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins.
If you have an adventurer's heart, this 9-day exploration of Peru's jungles and mountains is perfect for you. Start in Lima and enjoy a diverse mix of architecture, world-renowned restaurants, and eclectic neighborhoods. Continue to Cusco—the capital of the ancient Inca empire—and explore narrow cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and ancient ruins. Get a rush of adrenaline as you bike, raft, and trek through Peru's mountains on your way to the Machu Picchu ruins—the iconic 15th-century royal Inca citadel. Continue to the Amazon rainforest for an unforgettable stay in a nature lodge deep in the jungle.
Explore Peru's coast, mountains, and southern region in this 11-day trip. Start in metropolitan Lima, then continue to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire, to explore archaeological sites and the stunning Sacred Valley. Visit the famed Machu Picchu citadel, then keep going south to Lake Titicaca—South America's largest lake—to explore cultures who predate the Inca by millennia. Take a tour onto the lake to see the floating reed islands, textile weaving, and ancient stone ruins. Whether by plane or bus, you will be amazed at how quickly the landscape changes as you discover Peru.
From the coast to the mountains, explore Peru's pre-Inca cultures and ruins in this 11-day itinerary. Start in metropolitan Lima, then visit Pisco on a day trip to take a spectacular flight over the iconic Nazca lines. From here, head north up the coast to Trujillo to discover the Mochica pyramids, the mud-brick city of Chan Chan, and the Tucume pyramids of the Sican people. Drive inland through the cloud forest into the Amazonas region to see Gotca waterfall and Kuelap fortress, a walled Chachapoya structure known as the "Machu Picchu of the North". With over 5,000 years of architecture and civilization to experience, this trip is a must on any traveler's list.
This itinerary is a great way to see the highlights in and around Lima. Get an authentic taste of Peru during your Lima city and food tour. Next, experience the beauty and wildlife of the Ballestas Islands and Paracas National Reserve. Finally, get an aerial view of the famous Nazca Lines - including massive etchings of a condor, a hummingbird, and a monkey. These impressive works of art are best viewed from the skies, as some of them are up to 600 feet in size!
From metropolitan Lima to the remote Peruvian Andes, this 5-day adventure brings you to the heart of the mountains. Start in Lima— the capital of Peru—then take a quick flight to Huaraz, a mountain town popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Spend a day exploring the city's history, then head into the mountains to see stunning glaciated peaks, bright blue mountain lakes, and Peru's highest mountain—Mt. Huascaran, which towers at 22,205 ft.
From metropolitan cities and ancient Inca ruins to remote jungle lodges, this 16-day exploration of Peru's history and nature is perfect for the adventurous traveler. Start in Lima, Peru's capital city, then continue to the Amazon rainforest. Spend a few days deep in the Amazon exploring the jungle and seeing rare wildlife. Next, head to the imperial Inca capital of Cusco to explore narrow cobblestone streets and 15th-century archaeological sites. Then, embark on the Salkantay Trek to get some breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. End your trek at Machu Picchu, and spend a day immersed in the beauty and history of its ancient ruins. Reward your hard work with two relaxing days exploring the villages and historical sights of the Sacred Valley. Finally, head back to Cusco and summit the colorful Rainbow Mountain.
Discover the hidden rainforest in this 5-day exploration of northern Peru. Transfer from Lima to Iquitos and continue your journey into the Amazon by boat. See hundreds of colorful birds flock together at dawn, spot nocturnal wildlife on a night hike, and visit indigenous communities to learn sugar making and fishing techniques.
From the hustle and bustle of Cusco to the remote Machu Picchu citadel and Amazon Rainforest, this 11-day highlights tour is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure. Spend a few days in the Amazon viewing wildlife like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge. Then, explore the colorful textile markets and monolithic ruins of the Sacred Valley, and take in the majesty of Machu Picchu. Finally, head to Lake Titicaca to experience the region's rich culture and beautiful landscapes.
This 11-day exploration of Peru is perfect for adventurous travelers. Start in metropolitan Lima, then continue to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Head into the mountains to challenge yourself on the 4-day Salkantay Trek—a spectacular hike with remote camping and glacial views. End in Aguas Calientes for a relaxing night, then visit the famed Machu Picchu citadel—a marvel of ancient engineering. Finally, head to the Amazon jungle to spot wildlife like macaws, cayman, giant river otters, and tapirs.
Start your two-week trip at the impressive Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. From there, visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Explore the markets and towns of the Sacred Valley, complete a short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, and end your trip in Puerto Maldonado among Amazonian wildlife including macaws, cayman, giant river otters, and tapirs.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who have a limited amount of time in the Sacred Valley, and really want to make it count. Spend 5 days delving into the beauty and rich culture of the Sacred Valley. Walk in the footsteps of the Inca on the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and top it off with an exploration of the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.
This 12-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous and fit travelers. Begin in the imperial Incan city of Cusco, where you'll embark on a 3-day trek to Machu Picchu. Then, explore the Sacred Valley's ruins, markets, and villages before summiting Rainbow Mountain and getting your fill of culture and stellar views at Lake Titicaca.
Discover the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, along this challenging yet rewarding trek. The 65 km trek passes through lush jungles, deep canyons, and snow-capped peaks en route to Machu Picchu. If you’re up for the adventure, this is one of the most beautiful treks in the Cusco Region. Top it all off with an in-depth exploration of the ruins, markets, and villages of the Sacred Valley.
Explore Peru's remote Huayhuash range in the northern Peruvian Andes during this 9-day adventure. Start in metropolitan Lima, then transfer to Huaraz in the north. Join your trekking group and support team in the village of Pacllón, then hit the trail for a spectacular 5-day hike. You will trek through rugged landscapes, camp beneath a spectacular night sky, and spend afternoons relaxing by turquoise mountain lakes. Alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains that reach 19,685 ft (6,000 m) are the backdrops for this adventure. At night, relax at camp to a hot meal prepared by the camp cook.
From metropolitan cities and ancient Inca ruins to remote jungle lodges, this 14-day exploration of Peru's history and nature is perfect for the adventurous traveler. Start in metropolitan Lima then continue to the imperial Inca capital of Cusco. Explore 15th-century archaeological sites, zip line through the Sacred Valley, and spend a day exploring Machu Picchu before continuing to the Amazon rainforest. Spend 4 days deep in the Manu National Preserve exploring the jungle and seeing rare wildlife. With luck, you might see the reclusive jaguar—king of the Amazon.
Rejuvenate, awaken, and connect in Peru's Sacred Valley during this 7-day intentional wellness trip. Start in Lima's eclectic art neighborhood of Miraflores, then head to ancient Cusco and your cozy bungalow retreat in the Sacred Valley. Connect with your body and soul through ancient meditation practices and energizing yoga practices, ending your trip with a visit to the famed Machu Picchu ruins.
From Lima to the Amazon, this 12-day itinerary has it all. Take in the sights, aromas, and tastes of Lima then head to Lake Titicaca to explore the region's history and beautiful Islands. Next, travel to Cusco and the Sacred Valley to learn about its culture and ancient ruins, including a visit to Machu Picchu. Finally, head east to Puerto Maldonado, your launch point for your journey to the rainforest. Spend three days viewing wildlife, like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.
This 9-day itinerary brings you to Peru's most stunning landscapes. Head to the Inca capital of Cusco to explore the colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley and take the short Inca Trail to the famous Machu Picchu ruins. Next, travel east to Puerto Maldonado, your launch point to the lush Amazon. Spend three days viewing wildlife, like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.
From the Colca Canyon to Machu Picchu, this 12-day itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Fly over the Nazca Lines, some of the world's most impressive geoglyphs, before exploring Lima and the colonial city of Arequipa. Then visit Lake Titicaca, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley. Cap off your trip by walking in the footsteps of the Incas on a short hike to Machu Picchu.
From Lima to the Nazca Lines to iconic Machu Picchu, this 9-day adventure brings you to Peru's cultural and historic highlights. Start in the metropolitan city of Lima, then head south to Paracas. See the massive Nazca Lines by airplane tour and try your hand at sand boarding on the nearby sand dunes. Explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley, visiting ancient Inca ruins and bustling textile markets, and experiencing local culture. End with a visit to the famed 15th-century imperial Machu Picchu ruins located high in the Amazonian cloud forest.
The Ausangate trek is beautiful and remote, a great option for travelers keen on avoiding the crowds of the Inca Trail. With this itinerary, you'll start with history and culture in the ancient Incan capital of Cusco. From here, embark on your five-day trek and discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region—glacial lakes, herds of alpacas, and pretty mountain views. Cap off your trek with a day of exploration at Machu Picchu, Peru's most iconic ruins.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and more remote trek in Peru, the Ausangate trek may be perfect for you. This itinerary gives you some time to explore the ancient Incan capital of Cusco before embarking on this 5-day trek. During the trek, you’ll discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region, hike past glacial lakes, and wander amidst herds of alpacas.
On this Peruvian adventure, you'll start in the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Embark on a rewarding trek to the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, passing through jungles and snow-capped peaks en route to Machu Picchu. If you’re up for a challenge, this is one of the most beautiful treks in the Sacred Valley.
From Incan ruins to the wildlife-rich rainforest, the 6-day version of this itinerary is quick but multi-faceted. Experience metropolitan Lima, the Incan capital of Cusco, and the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu. Then make your way to Puerto Maldonado, where you'll spend your days viewing wildlife on jungle excursions, and your nights in the comfort of an eco-lodge.
For a quick trip that includes all of the highlights of the Sacred Valley, look no further than this 5-day Peruvian jaunt. Tour the beautiful Sacred Valley and see less-visited Incan ruins, get to know the culinary and cultural elements of Cusco, and—of course—spend a full day exploring the bucket-list-worthy wonder of Machu Picchu.
Explore the essential highlights of Peru's Sacred Valley, including visits to Cusco and Machu Picchu. Then, journey through a land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of alpacas to arrive at your ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Mount Vinicunca hidden deep in the Andes.
From Incan ruins to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, the 15-day version of this itinerary shows you the many sides of Peru. Experience metropolitan Lima, the incredible Nazca lines, and the Incan capital of Cusco. Walk a section of the Inca Trail, followed by a day at Machu Picchu. And make your way to Puerto Maldonado, where you'll spend three days viewing wildlife on jungle excursions while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.
From Machu Picchu to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, the 10-day version of this itinerary brings you to a variety of Peru's landscapes. Experience metropolitan Lima, the Inca capital of Cusco, and Puerto Maldonado—your launch point to the Amazon. Spend three days viewing wildlife on jungle excursions while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.
Get off the beaten path with this unique itinerary through Peru. Take an aerial tour of the famous Nazca Lines. Visit the Ballestas Islands to see endangered birds, marine mammals, and charismatic Humboldt penguins. And dive into the history, culture, and food scene of vibrant Lima, where you'll tour eclectic Miraflores, the Larco Museum of pre-Columbian art, the historic central plaza, and more.
From bustling cities to remote Inca ruins, this 8-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous and fit travelers. Discover Peru's metropolitan culture in the capital city of Lima, then continue to the imperial Inca city of Cusco. Tour the Sacred Valley and explore Inca ruins and colorful textile markets before embarking on a 4-day trek on the Inca Trail. Walk on the same stone steps that Inca engineers built in the 15th century, cross Dead Woman Pass at 13,828 ft (4,215 m), and relax in camp at night with sweeping vistas of the Andes Mountains. Finish your trek at the famed Machu Picchu ruins.
Experience Peru's cities, Machu Picchu, and the largest lake in South America on this 8-day tour. Start with cultural and culinary tours in metropolitan Lima before continuing to the Sacred Valley. You'll also visit the floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca, where wildlife and handicrafts abound. Cap it off with a one-day hike of the Inca trail, ending with a visit to the incredible ruins of Machu Picchu.
This 10-day itinerary brings you to Peru's most iconic landscapes. Explore the metropolitan city of Lima, and delve into the culture and history at Lake Titicaca. Next, head to the Inca capital of Cusco, explore the colorful textile markets and small towns of the Sacred Valley, and cap it off with a visit to the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Go from the Sacred Valley to the Amazon with this 10-day itinerary. Explore the markets, small towns, and Inca ruins around Cusco before walking a section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Then, travel east to Puerto Maldonado, your launch point to the rainforest. Spend multiple days viewing wildlife like the giant river otter and tropical parrots, and spend your nights in the comfort of an eco-lodge.
This seven-day journey highlights all of the iconic landscapes, famous Incan ruins, and cultural experiences that make Peru a sought-after destination. Stroll the textile markets of Cusco, visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, spend a day at the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, and more.
From Cusco to the Amazon rainforest, this grand Peru tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and history buffs. The highlights are many: explore Indigenous/colonial Cusco, visit the Uros floating islands, and witness the majesty of Machu Picchu. Then travel south to Puerto Maldonado and the Amazon, where you'll stay in a rainforest lodge and embark on nature tours to spot exotic wildlife.
Explore Peru's cities, archaeological sites, and coastal wildlife during this 8-day journey. Start in Lima, then head south to Paracas for a marine wildlife tour and views of a 2,200-year old geoglyph. Go sandboarding in the desert oasis of Huacachina before visiting Cusco, where you'll check out textile markets and experience the culture of the Sacred Valley. End your visit with a day trip to the world-renowned ruins at Machu Picchu.
Go from Machu Picchu to the Amazon on this 8-day itinerary. Explore the colorful textile markets, small towns, and Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley before traveling east to Puerto Maldonado, your launch point to the rainforest. Spend three days viewing wildlife, like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.
From Lima to Machu Picchu, this one-week highlights tour is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure. Explore the bohemian neighborhoods and food scene of Lima, then continue to Cusco—the ancient Incan capital. Spend several days in the Sacred Valley discovering colorful textile markets and monolithic ruins, then walk the Inca trail to arrive at Machu Picchu.
Interested in a unique honeymoon? Consider a 10-day tour that combines Peru's highlights with a romantic twist. Stroll Lima's bohemian seaside neighborhoods and shop at a local mercado before your Peruvian cooking class. Enjoy a wine-tasting at Tacama Vineyard, visit the colorful textile markets of Cusco, and zip-line over the Sacred Valley—all before capping off your trip with a guided visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
If you have an adventurer's heart, this 8-day excursion of Peru's rivers and ruins is perfect for you. Start in Lima and enjoy a diverse mix of architecture, world-renowned restaurants, and eclectic neighborhoods. Continue to Cusco—the capital of the ancient Inca empire—and explore narrow cobblestone streets, colorful markets, and the monolithic ruins left by the Killke and Inca. Spend three days rafting Class III and IV rapids and camping on remote canyon beaches. Explore the living Inca village of Ollantaytambo and the Machu Picchu ruins—the iconic 15th-century royal Inca citadel.
From the wildlife-friendly shores of Río Tambopata to the remote cloud forest city of Chachapoyas, Peru is full of gems best accessed via the open road. Rent some wheels and check out these suggestions for do-it-yourself adventures to mountains, rainforests, empty beaches, and other off-the-grid Peruvian destinations.
Peru is a fascinating and complex country, full of ancient ruins and monuments, pulsing cities, and natural wonders—not to mention warm and welcoming people eager to share their culture. Here’s some insight into how kimkim can organize your ideal trip to Peru, from start to finish.
Cusco is second only to Lima as Peru's culinary capital. It seems as if every arch, arcade, and alleyway of the Plaza de Armas harbors a serendipitous eatery—and the standard of dining is high and ever evolving. From hearty, carb-rich Andean fare to a gamut of international offerings, here are the best places to eat out in Cusco.
For travelers interested in visiting Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley highlights, five days is just enough time to do it. If you've already been to Machu Picchu, consider seeing a different part of Peru on this trip: the Amazon Rainforest, the biodiverse Ballestas Islands, or the lesser-known archeological sites of Northern Peru are all excellent options that showcase more of Peru's outdoor and cultural offerings. Check out more options in the itineraries below.
The Incan citadel of Machu Picchu is the most popular destination in Peru. But once you're there, it only takes a day or two to explore. What's next on your agenda? Visit a glacial lake, get your culinary fix in Lima, or bike the hills of the Sacred Valley—all within a short distance from Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
Avid traveler Laura Marshall knows the value of local expertise—that's why she enlisted kimkim to plan her dream trip to Peru. Her group decided on the Salkantay Trek, a five-day adventure through remote landscape, ending with Machu Picchu. Check out this interview to learn why she loved it and what it's like to trek with an expert guide.
Peru may be rooted in Incan ingenuity and Spanish colonialism, but it’s a 21st-century destination too. Whether you're looking for adventure, a romantic getaway, a culinary tour, or a family holiday, it's got you covered. Find out the best places to go for every travel interest—including your own.
Trekking to Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers—but there's more than one way to get there. The classic Inca Trail lets trekkers walk in the steps of the Incas, while the more remote Salkantay route offers solitude and wildlife. Compare your options for getting to Peru's most famous place on foot, from distance and cost to overnight options.
There's more to Peru than Machu Picchu—world-class restaurants, diverse wildlife, and landscapes ranging from Amazonian rainforest to the snow-capped Andes await. Here's everything you need to know when planning your visit.
