Planning a trip to Peru is incredibly exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming. Peru is packed with ancient ruins, vibrant cities, dramatic landscapes, and wildly different climates, all spread across a large country with challenging geography. That’s why having a well-thought-out Peru travel itinerary makes such a huge difference.
From the coastal capital of Lima to the Andes Mountains and deep into the Amazon rainforest, distances, altitude changes, and transportation logistics all play a role in how much you can realistically see. Trying to do too much too fast is the biggest mistake travelers make in Peru.
Whether you have 7 days, 10 days, or a full 2 weeks, this guide will help you build a Peru travel itinerary that fits your timeline, travel style, and energy level—without burning you out. If you’re still narrowing down what to see, start with the top things to do in Peru, then use this guide to turn inspiration into a smooth, realistic plan.
How Many Days Do You Need in Peru?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but the ideal length of your Peru trip depends on two things:
- How many regions you want to visit
- How fast (or slow) you like to travel
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:
- 7 days – Best for first-time visitors focusing on Peru’s biggest highlights
- 10 days – A more relaxed pace with room for cultural and natural variety
- 14 days or more – Ideal for travelers who want to experience Peru’s full diversity, including the Amazon rainforest
One important thing to keep in mind is altitude acclimatization. Destinations like Cusco and Lake Titicaca sit high above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust. A smart Peru travel itinerary always includes buffer days and avoids rushing from place to place
7-Day Peru Travel Itinerary (Highlights Trip)
If you’re short on time, this 7-day Peru travel itinerary focuses on the country’s most iconic destinations while keeping travel stress to a minimum.
Days 1–2: Lima
Start your trip in Peru’s capital city. Lima is the perfect place to recover from jet lag before heading to higher elevations.
Spend your time:
- Exploring the historic center
- Walking along the Miraflores coastal cliffs
- Enjoying some of the best food in South America
Lima’s food scene alone makes it worth at least two nights.
Days 3–4: Cusco
Fly to Cusco and take it slow. These days are all about acclimatizing.
Visit:
- Plaza de Armas
- San Pedro Market
- Nearby Inca ruins like Sacsayhuamán
Short walks, light sightseeing, and plenty of rest will help you feel your best.
Days 5–6: Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Travel through the Sacred Valley, stopping at sites like Pisac or Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Machu Picchu.
Spend a full day exploring Machu Picchu—there’s no rush here, and it’s absolutely worth it.
Day 7: Return to Cusco or Lima
Depending on your departure flight, return to Cusco or Lima for your journey home. If time allows, enjoy one last Peruvian meal before leaving.
10-Day Peru Travel Itinerary (Balanced Experience)
With 10 days, your Peru travel itinerary becomes more flexible and much more comfortable. This is often the sweet spot for first-time travelers.
Days 1–2: Lima
In addition to the highlights, add:
- Barranco’s colorful streets and art scene
- A food tour or cooking class
Days 3–5: Cusco & Sacred Valley
Spending extra time here makes a huge difference. Explore:
- Pisac’s ruins and market
- Ollantaytambo’s impressive fortress
- Smaller villages along the valley
Days 6–7: Machu Picchu
Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes so you can enter Machu Picchu early in the morning, before the biggest crowds arrive.
Days 8–9: Lake Titicaca
Travel to Puno and visit:
- The floating Uros Islands
- Taquile Island for traditional culture and lake views
Day 10: Return to Lima
Fly back to Lima for departure or a final overnight stay.
This itinerary balances culture, nature, and comfort while keeping travel days manageable.
14-Day Peru Travel Itinerary (In-Depth Adventure)
A two-week Peru travel itinerary allows you to experience the country’s incredible diversity—from the coast to the Andes to the rainforest.
In addition to the 10-day route, consider adding:
Amazon Rainforest (3 Days)
Visit Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos to stay in a jungle lodge, spot wildlife, and experience the Amazon up close. This is a completely different side of Peru and well worth the time.
Arequipa & Colca Canyon
Explore Arequipa’s beautiful colonial architecture and take a trip to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, where you can see massive Andean condors soaring overhead.
This longer itinerary is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Peru beyond the classics.
Transportation Tips for Your Peru Travel Itinerary
Getting around Peru takes planning, but the options are reliable:
- Flights – Best for long distances like Lima to Cusco
- Buses – Comfortable and affordable, especially for overnight routes
- Trains – Essential for reaching Machu Picchu
Booking domestic flights and trains early can save both time and money.
Common Peru Itinerary Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best trips can be derailed by poor planning. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Trying to visit too many places
- Ignoring altitude adjustment
- Underestimating travel times
In Peru, slow travel leads to better experiences. Fewer destinations, more time in each place.
Planning the Perfect Peru Travel Itinerary
A thoughtful Peru travel itinerary allows you to experience the country’s magic without unnecessary stress. Start by choosing the top things you want to see, then build your route around realistic timelines, rest days, and transportation logistics.
Peru rewards travelers who take their time. With the right plan in place, your trip won’t just be memorable—it’ll be unforgettable.