15 day itinerary for Peru

Itinerary

A 15-day adventure in Peru sounds like an incredible journey! With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a fun and adventurous itinerary that balances exploration, culture, and a bit of relaxation. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lima

• Morning: Arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic center of Lima. Visit Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima.
• Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Try some ceviche, a must-have Peruvian dish!

## Day 2: Lima to Paracas

• Morning: Take a bus to Paracas (about 4 hours). Enjoy the coastal views along the way.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Paracas and check into your accommodation. Head to the Paracas National Reserve for stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Evening: Relax at the beach and enjoy a seafood dinner.

## Day 3: Ballestas Islands

• Morning: Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands. Look out for sea lions, penguins, and various seabirds.
• Afternoon: Return to Paracas and take a bus to Huacachina (about 1 hour). Check into your accommodation.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset over the sand dunes and have dinner in the oasis.

## Day 4: Huacachina Adventure

• Morning: Go sandboarding and take a dune buggy ride through the desert. It’s an adrenaline rush!
• Afternoon: Relax by the oasis or take a swim in the lagoon.
• Evening: Enjoy a group dinner and share stories of your adventures.

## Day 5: Huacachina to Arequipa

• Morning: Take a bus to Arequipa (about 10 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Evening: Arrive in Arequipa, check into your hotel, and have a leisurely dinner.

## Day 6: Explore Arequipa

• Morning: Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, a beautiful and colorful complex.
• Afternoon: Explore the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral. Don’t forget to try the local dish, rocoto relleno!
• Evening: Enjoy a group dinner and perhaps some pisco sours!

## Day 7: Colca Canyon

• Morning: Depart early for a 2-day trip to Colca Canyon. Stop at the Chivay hot springs for a relaxing soak.
• Afternoon: Visit local villages and learn about the culture of the Colca Valley.
• Evening: Stay overnight in a local lodge and enjoy a traditional dinner.

## Day 8: Colca Canyon Exploration

• Morning: Head to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to see the majestic Andean condors soaring.
• Afternoon: Hike along the canyon trails and enjoy breathtaking views.
• Evening: Return to Chivay for dinner and rest.

## Day 9: Colca Canyon to Puno

• Morning: Depart for Puno (about 6 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Puno and check into your hotel. Explore the town and its markets.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 10: Lake Titicaca

• Morning: Take a boat tour of Lake Titicaca, visiting the Uros floating islands and Taquile Island.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional lunch on Taquile and learn about the local culture.
• Evening: Return to Puno for dinner and rest.

## Day 11: Puno to Cusco

• Morning: Take a bus to Cusco (about 7 hours). Stop at interesting sites along the way, like Pukara and Raqchi.
• Evening: Arrive in Cusco, check into your hotel, and enjoy a group dinner.

## Day 12: Explore Cusco

• Morning: Visit the Sacsayhuamán ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the San Pedro Market and the historic center, including Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun).
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps some live music!

## Day 13: Sacred Valley

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley. Visit Pisac Market and the ruins.
• Afternoon: Head to Ollantaytambo and explore the impressive fortress.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Ollantaytambo and enjoy dinner with your group.

## Day 14: Inca Trail or Train to Machu Picchu

• Option 1: If you’re up for it, start the Inca Trail trek (4-day trek).
• Option 2: If you prefer a more relaxed option, take the train to Aguas Calientes and check into your hotel.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner and prepare for the big day tomorrow!

## Day 15: Machu Picchu

• Morning: If you’re on the Inca Trail, reach Machu Picchu early in the morning. If you took the train, take the bus up to the site.
• Afternoon: Explore the ruins, take photos, and soak in the history. Don’t forget to hike up to Huayna Picchu for stunning views!
• Evening: Return to Aguas Calientes and then take the train back to Cusco. Celebrate your adventure with a farewell dinner!

## Day 16: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time for last-minute shopping or exploring in Cusco.
• Afternoon: Depart from Cusco to Lima for your flight home.

And there you have it! A thrilling 15-day adventure through Peru, filled with culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Make sure to pack your sense of adventure and enjoy every moment! Safe travels! 🌍✈️