Lima

Lima is a vibrant city with a rich history, delicious cuisine, and a gateway to the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that balances exploring Lima and preparing for your adventure to Machu Picchu. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Morning:

• Arrive in Lima and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and get settled.

Afternoon:

• Head to the historic center of Lima. Visit the Plaza Mayor, where you can see the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some ceviche, a must-have Peruvian dish. Pescados Capitales is a great spot for this!

Day 2: Explore Lima’s Culture

Morning:

• Visit the Larco Museum, which showcases pre-Columbian art. The museum is housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building and has a beautiful garden.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Miraflores district. Walk along the Malecón, a scenic coastal promenade. You can also visit the Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Incan pyramid.

Evening:

• Dinner in Miraflores. Consider trying Central or Maido for a fine dining experience that showcases Peruvian ingredients.

Day 3: Culinary Delights

Morning:

• Take a cooking class! Learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes. Many classes include a market tour to pick fresh ingredients.

Afternoon:

• After your cooking class, relax at Parque Kennedy in Miraflores, where you can enjoy the local atmosphere and maybe even meet some friendly cats!

Evening:

• Head to Barranco, the bohemian district of Lima. Enjoy dinner at Canta Rana, a popular spot for local food and drinks.

Day 4: Travel to Cusco

Morning:

• Fly from Lima to Cusco (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude.

Afternoon:

• Explore Cusco’s historic center. Visit the Plaza de Armas and the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun).

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try alpaca steak or lomo saltado for a taste of local cuisine.

Day 5: Sacred Valley Tour

All Day:

• Take a day tour of the Sacred Valley. Visit Pisac for its market and ruins, and then head to Ollantaytambo to explore the impressive fortress.

Evening:

• Spend the night in Ollantaytambo or return to Cusco. If you’re in Ollantaytambo, enjoy dinner at Apu Veronica for a cozy atmosphere.

Day 6: Machu Picchu Adventure

Early Morning:

• Take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. From there, catch a bus up to Machu Picchu.

All Day:

• Explore the magnificent Machu Picchu! Take your time wandering through the ruins, and don’t forget to hike up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for stunning views.

Evening:

• Return to Aguas Calientes for dinner. Try Indio Feliz for a delightful meal before heading back to your accommodation.

Day 7: Return to Lima

Morning:

• Take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus or taxi back to Cusco. Fly back to Lima.

Afternoon:

• If time allows, do some last-minute shopping at Larcomar or visit the Magic Water Circuit in the evening.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner in Lima. Consider dining at Astrid y Gastón, one of the top restaurants in Latin America, to celebrate your amazing trip!

Tips:

• Make sure to book your Machu Picchu tickets and train in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
• Stay hydrated and take it easy in Cusco to adjust to the altitude.
• Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable week in Lima and Machu Picchu! If you have any questions or need adjustments, just let me know! 🌎✈️