Itinerary

Peru is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 25-day itinerary that will take you from the bustling streets of Lima to the breathtaking heights of the Andes and the lush Amazon rainforest. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lima

• Morning: Arrive in Lima, the capital city. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic center, visiting Plaza Mayor and the stunning Cathedral of Lima.
• Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local cevichería. Don’t miss trying ceviche!

## Day 2: Lima

• Morning: Visit the Larco Museum to see pre-Columbian art and artifacts.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the Miraflores district, visiting the Parque Kennedy and the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
• Evening: Try a pisco sour at a local bar.

## Day 3: Lima to Paracas

• Morning: Take a bus to Paracas (about 4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax. Explore the Paracas National Reserve.
• Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach.

## Day 4: Ballestas Islands

• Morning: Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands to see sea lions, penguins, and beautiful rock formations.
• Afternoon: Return to Paracas and visit the local museum.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or take a sunset walk along the beach.

## Day 5: Paracas to Huacachina

• Morning: Head to Huacachina (about 1 hour by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the oasis. Rent a dune buggy for some thrilling rides!
• Evening: Watch the sunset over the dunes.

## Day 6: Huacachina

• Morning: Go sandboarding on the dunes.
• Afternoon: Relax by the oasis or take a swim.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 7: Huacachina to Arequipa

• Morning: Travel to Arequipa (about 10 hours by bus, or consider a flight).
• Afternoon: Arrive and check into your hotel. Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery.
• Evening: Dinner in the historic center, trying local dishes like rocoto relleno.

## Day 8: Arequipa

• Morning: Visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to see the famous mummy Juanita.
• Afternoon: Explore the Plaza de Armas and the beautiful architecture.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely evening in the city.

## Day 9: Arequipa to Colca Canyon

• Morning: Depart for Colca Canyon (about 3 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Check into your lodge and start exploring the area.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy the stunning views.

## Day 10: Colca Canyon

• Morning: Early morning visit to the Cruz del Condor to see the majestic Andean condors.
• Afternoon: Hike along the canyon trails.
• Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner.

## Day 11: Colca Canyon to Puno

• Morning: Travel to Puno (about 6 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Arrive and check into your hotel. Explore the town.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 12: Lake Titicaca

• Morning: Take a boat tour to the Uros Islands, made of floating reeds.
• Afternoon: Visit Taquile Island and enjoy a traditional lunch.
• Evening: Return to Puno and relax.

## Day 13: Puno to Cusco

• Morning: Travel to Cusco (about 7 hours by bus).
• Afternoon: Arrive and check into your hotel. Acclimatize to the altitude.
• Evening: Explore the San Blas neighborhood and have dinner.

## Day 14: Cusco

• Morning: Visit the Sacsayhuamán ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and the Cusco Cathedral.
• Evening: Try some local cuisine at a traditional restaurant.

## Day 15: Sacred Valley

• Morning: Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley, visiting Pisac Market and ruins.
• Afternoon: Head to Ollantaytambo and explore the impressive fortress.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Ollantaytambo.

## Day 16: Inca Trail or Train to Aguas Calientes

• Option 1: Start the Inca Trail trek (4 days).
• Option 2: Take the train to Aguas Calientes and relax in the hot springs.

## Day 17: Machu Picchu

• Morning: Visit Machu Picchu! Explore the ruins and take in the breathtaking views.
• Afternoon: Hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a different perspective.
• Evening: Return to Aguas Calientes and stay overnight.

## Day 18: Aguas Calientes to Cusco

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore Aguas Calientes.
• Afternoon: Take the train back to Cusco.
• Evening: Dinner in Cusco and relax.

## Day 19: Cusco to Puerto Maldonado

• Morning: Fly to Puerto Maldonado (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Transfer to your jungle lodge and settle in.
• Evening: Enjoy a guided night walk in the Amazon.

## Day 20: Amazon Rainforest

• Morning: Take a guided tour to explore the rainforest and spot wildlife.
• Afternoon: Visit a local community and learn about their culture.
• Evening: Dinner at the lodge and share stories with fellow travelers.

## Day 21: Amazon Rainforest

• Morning: Go on a canoe trip to explore the waterways.
• Afternoon: Participate in a cooking class or learn about medicinal plants.
• Evening: Enjoy a night hike to see nocturnal creatures.

## Day 22: Puerto Maldonado to Lima

• Morning: Fly back to Lima.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or visit any missed attractions.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a top restaurant.

## Day 23: Lima to Trujillo

• Morning: Fly to Trujillo (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Visit the Huacas del Sol y de la Luna archaeological site.
• Evening: Explore the city center and enjoy local cuisine.

## Day 24: Trujillo

• Morning: Visit the Chan Chan ruins, the largest adobe city in the world.
• Afternoon: Relax at Huanchaco beach and try surfing or enjoy fresh ceviche.
• Evening: Dinner in Trujillo.

## Day 25: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A vibrant 25-day adventure through Peru, filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Make sure to pack your sense of adventure and an open heart, and you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience! Safe travels! 🌎✈️