The Ultimate 14 Day Peru Itinerary
Welcome to Peru, where llamas roam freely, ancient ruins tell the stories of civilizations past, and ceviche is a culinary masterpiece. I spent over a month exploring here, and there are truly so many beautiful places to see in Peru. From the mystical heights of Machu Picchu to the bustling streets of Lima, I’ve created the ultimate 14-day adventure through this South American gem. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with culture, history, and plenty of pisco sour-induced joy.
Day 1: Explore Cusco
Cusco is the beating heart of Peru, nestled in a valley high in the Peruvian Andes. Here ancient Incan walls meet Spanish colonial charm, and altitude sickness is just nature’s way of saying “Welcome to the Andes!” Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful markets, baroque churches, and quaint cafes. From the historic Plaza de Armas to the Sacsayhuamán fortress, Cusco is full of history, adventure, and llamas—lots of llamas.
Getting to Cusco:
- By Air: The fastest way to reach Cusco is by flying into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) from major cities in Peru such as Lima. Several airlines operate regular flights to Cusco.
- By Bus: Cusco is well-connected by bus services from various cities within Peru and neighboring countries. There are long-distance buses from Lima, Arequipa, Puno, and other major cities that offer both daytime and overnight services. The journey can take several hours or even overnight, depending on the distance and route.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive to Cusco from nearby cities or towns. Keep in mind that road conditions may vary, especially in mountainous areas.
Best Hostels in Cusco:
Day 2: Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley– where ancient ruins, picturesque landscapes, and llamas await! It is located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, and it is easy to reach by booking a day tour. Explore the ruins of Pisac, wander through the vibrant markets of Ollantaytambo, and witness the breathtaking views that accompany every twist and turn of the Urubamba River. The Sacred Valley isn’t just sacred—it’s downright enchanting.
Day tours from Cusco:
Day 3: Ausangate
Taking a trip to Ausangate, the majestic guardian of the Andes, is an absolute must during your time in Peru. This towering peak, standing tall at over 20,000 feet, is not for the faint of heart (or lungs), but for those who are seeking epic adventures and breathtaking views. Book a tour from Cusco, and spend the day hiking trails leading to hidden lakes, vibrant rainbow mountains, and possibly a few elusive alpacas who always seem to be posing perfectly.
Day tours from Cusco:
Day 4: Rainbow Mountain
This place looks like Mother Nature took her paintbrush and created a masterpiece of colors that even Bob Ross would envy. Admire layers of reds, yellows, blues, and greens creating a stunning mosaic against the backdrop of the Andes. You can easily visit here by booking a day tour from Cusco; however, the hike to Rainbow Mountain is not so easy. The trails are steep with high altitudes, and the occasional llama photobombing your panoramic shots– but the reward at the top is worth every step.
Day tours from Cusco:
Day 5-8: Trek to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the crown jewel of Peru’s ancient wonders, and trip to Peru would of course not be complete without a stop here. Although you can get there by train, there’s for sure no better way to get to Machu Picchu than to spend a few days trekking in the path of the Incas.
Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek
The Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek are two iconic routes that lead adventurers to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, each offering a unique experience. The Inca Trail is the classic route, known for its historical significance, Incan ruins along the way, and the famous Sun Gate entrance to Machu Picchu. On the other hand, the Salkantay Trek is a more rugged and challenging alternative, showcasing diverse landscapes including snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and natural hot springs. I chose to do the 5 day Salkantay Trek, and it was one of the most incredible things I have ever done.
Salkantay Trek tours from Cusco:
- Overall best tour operator: Salkantay Trekking (this is the one I used, and they were awesome!! Definitely worth the extra money)
- Best budget friendly option: Machu Picchu Reservations (still a great choice, but the groups were much larger and accommodation/food was not as nice)
Day 9-10: Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Arequipa is a charming city, nestled in the shadow of three mighty volcanoes, is a delightful blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and culinary delights. But wait, there’s more! Just a few hours away lies the majestic Colca Canyon, where condors soar, hot springs bubble, and the sheer magnitude of nature’s grandeur will leave you speechless (or maybe just gasping for breath due to the altitude).
Getting to Arequipa from Cusco:
- By Air: The easiest way is to take a flight from Cusco (CUZ) to Arequipa (AQP). Several airlines offer direct flights between these two cities.
- By Bus: There are long-distance buses from Cusco to Arequipa. Many reputable bus companies operate routes between these cities, offering overnight or daytime journeys.
- By Car: You can also consider renting a car. The journey takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the route you take and any stops along the way. Keep in mind that driving in Peru can be challenging due to mountainous terrain and local traffic conditions, so be prepared for an adventurous road trip.
Tours from Arequipa:
Day 11-12: Huacachina & Paracas
This desert oasis, nestled amidst towering sand dunes near Ica, is a haven for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Picture this: a tranquil lagoon surrounded by palm trees, with adrenaline-pumping activities like sandboarding and dune buggying just all in one place. And let’s not forget the epic sunsets that paint the sky in shades of orange and pink, making it the perfect backdrop to take some amazing photos.
Day tours from Lima:
Day 13-14: Lima (Miraflores & Barranco)
Lima is a coastal, bustling metropolis where ceviche is practically a religion. In the trendy neighborhoods of Miraflores and Barranco, you’ll find a vibrant tapestry of culture, cuisine, and creativity waiting to be explored. Miraflores dazzles with its oceanfront promenade, paragliding adventures, and chic cafes serving up the freshest seafood delights. Meanwhile, Barranco lures you in with its bohemian vibes, colorful street art, and lively nightlife scene that will have you dancing until dawn. Soak in the sunsets over the Pacific, sip on a pisco sour or two (or three), and get ready to fall in love with Lima’s eclectic mix of modernity and tradition.
