14 day itinerary for Peru

Itinerary

Peru is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 14-day itinerary that will take you from the bustling streets of Lima to the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Welcome to Peru! After you land in Lima, take some time to settle into your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Government Palace. In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant—try ceviche, a must-have Peruvian dish!

## Day 2: Lima – Culinary Delights

Start your day with a visit to the Larco Museum, which showcases pre-Columbian art. Afterward, join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Peruvian dishes. In the evening, stroll through the Miraflores district and enjoy the sunset at the Malecón, a beautiful coastal promenade.

## Day 3: Lima to Cusco

Catch a morning flight to Cusco. Once you arrive, take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude. Explore the San Pedro Market for some local snacks and souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and the nearby Santo Domingo Church. Enjoy a cozy dinner in the San Blas neighborhood.

## Day 4: Sacred Valley – Pisac and Ollantaytambo

Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley! Start with a visit to Pisac, where you can explore the ruins and the vibrant market. After lunch, head to Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca town with impressive ruins. Spend the night in Ollantaytambo to prepare for your Machu Picchu adventure.

## Day 5: Machu Picchu

Rise early and take the train to Aguas Calientes. From there, catch a bus up to Machu Picchu! Spend the day exploring this iconic site, taking in the breathtaking views and learning about its history. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to Huayna Picchu for a stunning panoramic view. Return to Aguas Calientes for the night.

## Day 6: Aguas Calientes to Cusco

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Aguas Calientes, perhaps visiting the hot springs. In the afternoon, take the train back to Cusco. Once you’re back, explore the local shops and grab dinner at a cozy restaurant.

## Day 7: Cusco – City Exploration

Today, dive deeper into Cusco! Visit the Sacsayhuamán ruins, just a short hike from the city. Then, explore the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan shops. In the evening, consider attending a traditional dance show or enjoying a pisco sour at a local bar.

## Day 8: Cusco to Puno

Take a scenic bus ride to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The journey offers stunning views of the Andes. Once in Puno, check into your hotel and take a stroll along the lakefront. Enjoy a relaxing evening and prepare for your lake adventure tomorrow!

## Day 9: Lake Titicaca – Uros and Taquile Islands

Embark on a boat tour of Lake Titicaca! Visit the floating Uros Islands, made entirely of reeds, and learn about the unique lifestyle of the Uros people. Afterward, head to Taquile Island, known for its beautiful textiles. Enjoy a traditional lunch here before returning to Puno for the night.

## Day 10: Puno to Arequipa

Travel to Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its stunning white volcanic stone architecture. Once you arrive, explore the Santa Catalina Monastery, a city within a city! In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try the famous Arequipeña dish, rocoto relleno.

## Day 11: Arequipa – Colca Canyon

Get an early start and head to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Stop at viewpoints along the way, and keep an eye out for the majestic Andean condors. Spend the night in a cozy lodge in the canyon area.

## Day 12: Colca Canyon to Arequipa

Wake up early to catch the condors soaring in the morning sky. After breakfast, explore the canyon further before heading back to Arequipa. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the city, perhaps visiting the local markets or relaxing in a café.

## Day 13: Arequipa to Lima

Fly back to Lima. Spend your last full day in Peru shopping for souvenirs or visiting any sites you may have missed. Consider a visit to the Barranco district, known for its bohemian vibe and street art. Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Lima’s top restaurants.

## Day 14: Departure

Depending on your flight time, you might have a few hours to squeeze in some last-minute sightseeing or shopping. Then, it’s time to head to the airport and say goodbye to Peru, taking with you unforgettable memories and experiences!

And there you have it! A delightful 14-day adventure through Peru, filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Make sure to pack your camera, as you’ll want to capture every moment! Safe travels! 🌎✈️