12 day itinerary for Peru

Itinerary

Absolutely, I'd love to help you plan your 12-day adventure in Peru! Get ready for an exciting journey filled with diverse landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Here's a suggested itinerary for your trip:

Day 1: Arrival in Lima

• Arrive in Lima, the capital city of Peru
• Explore the historic center, Plaza Mayor, and try some local ceviche for dinner

Day 2: Lima to Paracas

• Travel to Paracas, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife
• Visit the Paracas National Reserve and take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands

Day 3: Paracas to Huacachina

• Head to Huacachina, a desert oasis surrounded by sand dunes
• Try sandboarding and take a dune buggy ride in the afternoon

Day 4: Huacachina to Nazca

• Visit the mysterious Nazca Lines, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor
• Explore the Chauchilla Cemetery and the Nazca Aqueducts

Day 5: Nazca to Arequipa

• Travel to Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its stunning colonial architecture
• Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal

Day 6: Arequipa to Colca Canyon

• Journey to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world
• Take a guided tour to spot Andean condors and relax in the natural hot springs

Day 7: Colca Canyon to Puno

• Travel to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca
• Explore the floating Uros Islands and learn about the local culture

Day 8: Puno to Cusco

• Head to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire
• Visit the Sacred Valley and explore the Pisac Market

Day 9: Cusco

• Spend the day exploring Cusco's historic center, including the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral
• Visit the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Q'enqo

Day 10: Cusco to Machu Picchu

• Take the train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus up to Machu Picchu
• Explore the ancient Inca citadel and hike to the Sun Gate for stunning views

Day 11: Machu Picchu to Cusco

• Return to Cusco and relax after your Machu Picchu adventure
• Visit the San Pedro Market and try some local Peruvian dishes

Day 12: Departure from Cusco

• Say goodbye to Peru and head to the airport for your flight home

This itinerary will give you a taste of Peru's diverse landscapes, from the coast to the mountains, and allow you to experience the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. Enjoy your trip!