Peru Itineraries
Experience Peru's incredible diversity from Lima's world-class food scene to ancient Inca ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This itinerary balances must-see highlights with authentic local experiences, including proper altitude acclimatization.
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Compare at a glance — pick the duration that fits your trip.
How Many Days Do You Need inPeru?
7 Days inPeru
Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu
From Lima's incredible food scene to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, this week-long Peru adventure balances must-see highlights with local experiences. Perfect pacing with altitude acclimatization built in.
10 Days inPeru
Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Experience Peru's incredible diversity from Lima's world-class food scene to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu. This carefully paced itinerary balances cultural immersion, adventure, and acclimatization to high altitude.
14 Days inPeru
Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu
Experience Peru's incredible diversity from Lima's world-class food scene to ancient Inca ruins in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. This itinerary balances must-see highlights with authentic local experiences, including proper altitude acclimatization.
Best Time to VisitPeru
Dry season in the mountains with clear skies for Machu Picchu and minimal rain
Rainy season with heavy precipitation in Cusco and Sacred Valley, trail closures possible
How Much DoesPeru Cost?
A mid-range trip to Peru costs approximately $232/day per person, including accommodation, food, local transport, and activities. For a full trip, expect to spend between $1460–$3150 per person depending on duration. This does not include international flights or travel insurance.
Money-saving tips:
- ✓Book Machu Picchu train and entry tickets 2-3 months ahead to secure better prices
- ✓Eat lunch at markets and street stalls - quality is excellent and costs 60% less than restaurants
- ✓Use shared vans instead of private transfers between cities to save $20-30 per trip
- ✓Buy the Cusco Tourist Ticket for S/130 - covers 10 major sites and saves money vs individual entries
- ✓Drink coca tea instead of buying altitude sickness medication - equally effective and free at hotels
Getting AroundPeru
Peruvian Sol (PEN). Cards accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants, but bring cash for markets, street food, and tips. ATMs widely available in cities.
Book online 2-3 weeks ahead for best prices, check-in online mandatory
Pro tip:Window seat on right side for mountain views
Book through hotel or agencies on Plaza de Armas day before
Pro tip:Sit on left side for valley views going to Ollantaytambo
Book online 1 month ahead, bring passport for boarding
Pro tip:Right side for river views, left side for mountain views
Same as outbound, afternoon flights often cheaper
Pro tip:Either side offers good coastal and mountain views on descent
Top Cities inPeru
Cusco
Recommended: 6 days
Lima
Recommended: 4 days
Sacred Valley
Recommended: 4 days
Aguas Calientes
Recommended: 3 days
Sacred Valley
Recommended: 2 days
City-Specific Itineraries
Frequently Asked Questions AboutPeru
Is 7 days enough for Peru?
7 days is perfect for hitting Peru's highlights: Lima's food scene, Cusco's history, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. You'll get a great taste but could easily spend 2-3 weeks exploring more regions like the Amazon or northern Peru.
How much does 7 days in Peru cost?
Budget travelers can do 7 days for $700-900, mid-range $1200-1600, and luxury $2500+. The biggest expense is Machu Picchu (train + entry = $200+ per person). Book accommodations and trains early for better prices.
What is the best month to visit Peru?
May through September is ideal - dry season with clear mountain views. June-August is peak season (crowded but perfect weather). April and October are good shoulder months with fewer crowds and decent weather.
Do I need a visa for Peru?
US, UK, EU, Canadian, and Australian citizens get 90 days visa-free. Just need a passport valid for 6+ months. No vaccinations required but yellow fever recommended if visiting the Amazon region.
How bad is altitude sickness in Peru?
Cusco is at 3,400m - most people feel some effects. Arrive a day early, drink coca tea constantly, avoid alcohol for 48 hours, and take it slow. Sacred Valley is lower altitude and helps acclimatize. Diamox medication can help if you're worried.
How far in advance should I book Machu Picchu?
Book train tickets and Machu Picchu entry 2-3 months ahead for peak season (June-August), 1 month ahead for shoulder season. Only 2,500 people per day are allowed, and tickets sell out regularly during dry season.
Is 10 days enough for Peru?
Yes, 10 days allows you to see Lima's food scene, explore Cusco's Inca heritage, visit Sacred Valley, and experience Machu Picchu. You'll miss the Amazon and northern Peru, but it's perfect for first-time visitors focusing on the classic highlights.
How much does 10 days in Peru cost?
Budget travelers can manage $100-150/day, mid-range $200-300/day, and luxury $400+/day. The biggest costs are Machu Picchu train ($240) and entrance ($160), plus domestic flights. Meals range from $3 street food to $150 fine dining.
How do I prepare for altitude sickness in Cusco?
Arrive in Cusco (3,400m) 2-3 days before Machu Picchu. Drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, eat light meals, and ascend gradually. Consider altitude sickness medication if you're sensitive. Sacred Valley is lower altitude and helps acclimatization.
Is 14 days enough for Peru?
Yes, 14 days allows you to see Lima's food scene, explore Cusco and Sacred Valley thoroughly, visit Machu Picchu properly with sunrise, and have time for rest and acclimatization. You could add Amazon or northern Peru with more time, but this covers the classic highlights comfortably.
How much does 14 days in Peru cost?
Budget travelers can do it for $1,800-2,200, mid-range travelers $2,800-3,500, and luxury travelers $4,500-6,000+. Major costs are Machu Picchu train ($240), entrance fees ($100+), and flights ($250). Food ranges from $3 street meals to $150+ fine dining.
How do I prevent altitude sickness in Cusco?
Arrive in Cusco and rest first day - no strenuous activities. Drink coca tea constantly (hotels provide free). Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol 24 hours, eat light meals. Consider visiting Sacred Valley (lower altitude) first. Prescription altitude medication available but coca tea works well for most people.
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