Peru Travel Itinerary 10 Days ( Ultimate Guide )

Peru offers a captivating mix of culture, nature, and history that makes it the perfect travel destination. Whether you’re enjoying the flavorful cuisine of Lima or exploring the lush, diverse Amazon Rainforest, Peru never ceases to amaze.

Among its highlights, the iconic Machu Picchu and the stunning Sacred Valley in Cusco are must-see destinations that should be on every traveler’s Peru Travel Itinerary 10 Days.

With so much to offer, from the breathtaking Lake Titicaca to the lesser-known Incan ruins in the northern regions, planning a 10-day itinerary in Peru can be challenging. However, we’ve carefully crafted a journey that lets you discover the most beautiful places while making the most of your time.

Peru Travel Guide: 10-Day Itinerary

Ten days in Peru is just enough to capture the heart and soul of this fascinating country. With convenient bus routes and domestic flights, getting around Peru is surprisingly easy. Here’s a detailed day-by-day itinerary to help you explore the country’s breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. Check out our map for the key highlights of this unforgettable journey.

Day 1: Arrive in Lima to Begin Your 10-Day Adventure in Peru

One of the things I truly appreciate about flying to Peru from the US is how easy the time difference is. Being in the Central Time Zone means you don’t have to worry about jetlag, and flights from cities like Miami are relatively short. For us, it was a smooth 5-hour flight from Miami, which made arriving in Lima a breeze! While it may be a longer journey from other parts of the world, arriving in Lima feeling refreshed was a pleasant surprise.

After landing in Lima, we checked into our hotel and took some time to rest up for the exciting journey ahead. We stayed at IFE Boutique Hotel in Miraflores, a lively area filled with fantastic restaurants and close to major attractions. Alternatively, the Casa Fanning Apart Hotel in Barranco is another excellent option, located in Lima’s vibrant and artsy district.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Lima

1. Barranco: Known for its bohemian vibe, Barranco is full of art, creativity, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s a great spot to explore if you’re looking for something fun and unique.
2. Miraflores: This area is popular with tourists due to its many attractions, great dining options, and proximity to the coast. You’ll find plenty of top-notch hotels and places to eat here.

Day 2: Lima Food Tour & Neighborhood Exploration

While many travelers may skip over Lima to explore other parts of Peru, this bustling capital is a hidden gem, especially when it comes to food and art. Lima’s vibrant culinary scene, combined with its stunning street murals, makes it a city worth exploring.

Spending a day in Lima is the perfect way to immerse yourself in modern Peruvian culture. What’s the best way to do this? By taking a food tour, of course! When you’re in one of the world’s culinary capitals, there’s no better way to explore than through taste.

One of the top-rated food tours in Lima is with the Lima Gourmet Company. We savored authentic ceviche, crafted our own Pisco sours, and enjoyed a fusion of criollo flavors next to pre-Incan ruins. We even sampled fresh, organic Peruvian coffee and explored a local market—an unforgettable experience that touches on every sense.

The bonus of this tour is that it takes you through the vibrant districts of Miraflores and Barranco, where you can enjoy both the food and the local sights.

After the food tour, I recommend diving into Lima’s brewery scene. Visit local favorites like Barbarian or La Cerveceria before heading to Mercado 28, a food hall in Miraflores. This spot offers a wide variety of Peruvian dishes, from lomo saltado tacos to ceviche poke bowls, paired with creative Pisco cocktails and craft beers. A perfect way to end your day!

Day 3: Journey to the Amazon Rainforest in Peru

Visiting the Amazon Rainforest is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s list while in Peru. It’s no surprise that Chris and I agree: exploring the Amazon is the top highlight of any Peru itinerary. You have several options when visiting the Amazon, with three main areas to choose from: Iquitos in the north, and Manu or Puerto Maldonado in the south.

We opted to stay at the Tambopata Research Center located in the Tambopata National Reserve, near Puerto Maldonado. One thing to keep in mind is that reaching some of these lodges can take time, but it’s worth every moment for the wildlife and serenity you’ll encounter.

Our journey to Tambopata started with a 1.5-hour flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado, followed by an hour bus ride to the dock, and then a 3-hour boat ride to our first lodge, Refugio Amazonas, where we stayed for one night. The next day, we embarked on a 4-hour boat ride to reach the Tambopata Research Center. Being in such a remote area meant endless opportunities to spot wildlife!

A recent update from Rainforest Expeditions, which manages both Tambopata and Refugio Amazonas, now allows travelers to reach Tambopata directly in just 2.5 hours by boat, without the need for an overnight stay at Refugio Amazonas. However, if you have the time, we highly recommend staying the night at Refugio. The lodge is stunning, and witnessing the sunrise from the canopy is a magical experience.

If your time is limited, as it might be on this 10-day journey, you can skip the overnight stay and head straight to the Tambopata Research Center, ensuring you maximize your time exploring the Amazon.

Day 4-5: Discover the Wonders of the Amazon Rainforest in Peru

Our adventure continued as we left Refugio Amazonas and set off on our final boat ride to the Tambopata Research Center. The experiences here were nothing short of extraordinary. We hiked through the lush rainforest, visited the famous Colorado Clay Lick, home to the largest macaw gathering in the area, and spent peaceful mornings having breakfast alongside curious macaws who were eager to steal a bite!

During our stay, we also spotted howler monkeys swinging through the trees and, on the boat ride back to the airport, we were lucky enough to see not one, but two jaguars along the riverbank. This encounter with wildlife was truly magical.

The Tambopata Research Center may be more remote, but the wildlife and tranquility make it worth every extra minute of travel. The lodge itself is a unique experience, with open-air rooms that allow you to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the Amazon Rainforest.

If you have the time, spending a few days in the Amazon is a must. These days will allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of nature at its finest, away from the crowds.

Day 6: Arrive in Cusco and Adjust to the Altitude

Now it’s time to continue your Peru adventure and head to Cusco! After an early morning departure from the Tambopata Research Center and a flight from Puerto Maldonado, we arrived in Cusco around 2 PM. We recommend using this day to settle into Cusco and take it easy.

It can be tough to relax in a city as vibrant and captivating as Cusco, but with an altitude of approximately 11,200 feet (3,400 meters), it’s important to take things slow. A light stroll through the city, gentle climbs up the hills and stairs, and a simple dinner are all good ways to ease into the altitude (don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy Cusco’s incredible food later). Make sure to drink some coca tea, which is known to help with altitude sickness, and get an early night’s rest.

By following these tips, you’ll wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to explore Cusco the next day. Altitude sickness is serious, so be sure to listen to your body and take it slow!

Where to stay in Cusco

We stayed at Rumi Wasi, and it was easily our favorite hotel of the entire trip. This charming boutique hotel is built on ancient Incan stones, and the staff is incredibly friendly and attentive. You’ll enjoy perks like free airport pick-up and drop-off, breakfast served in your room or on the balcony with views of the city, and complimentary coca tea and water. Another great service is that they allow you to leave any luggage behind while you head off to Machu Picchu, making travel more convenient. We highly recommend staying here during your time in Cusco.

Day 7: Explore the Wonders of Cusco, Peru

After a restful night, it’s time to wake up and start exploring the best of Cusco! Simply wandering the streets of this historic city is an adventure in itself, but there are a few must-see spots you won’t want to miss. First, make sure to visit some of Cusco’s stunning churches, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Another essential stop is San Pedro Market, where you can find unique souvenirs, local snacks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Cusco’s daily life. Here are some favorite spots to check out during your day in Cusco:

Day 8: Wander in the Sacred Valley

While you could rent a car and explore the Sacred Valley on your own, we highly recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate its rich history and significance. A great option is the 2-day tour that includes both the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, allowing you to dive deep into these iconic sites.

If, like us, you only have one day to explore the Sacred Valley, I recommend visiting Moray Ruins, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo.

The breathtaking Andean mountains in Chinchero set the stage for a perfect day. During the tour, we learned how locals traditionally make alpaca wool products, a fascinating glimpse into Andean craftsmanship. At Moray, we wandered through the ancient agricultural terraces used by the Incas to experiment with growing different crops in microclimates—an impressive feat of engineering.

Next up, the absolute highlight of the Sacred Valley: the Maras Salt Mines. These salt pools have been used for over 500 years, channeling saltwater that is dried and processed into the salt we know today. The landscape is stunning, and we had fun taking photos around the salt flats. Don’t forget to pick up some salt bags and perhaps a delicious dark chocolate and salt bar as souvenirs!

Finally, after visiting Maras, you’ll make your way to Ollantaytambo, where you can explore the incredible ruins and climb the steep steps for an unforgettable view. Afterward, you’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a quick dinner and get to bed early to prepare for the next day’s adventure at Machu Picchu!

Where to Stay: Jaya Machupicchu Hotel

For a comfortable and convenient stay in Aguas Calientes, Jaya Machupicchu Hotel is an excellent choice. This centrally located hotel offers spacious rooms with a luxurious Jacuzzi bathtub, ideal for relaxing after a full day of exploring the Sacred Valley. They also provide a complimentary breakfast with a variety of delicious options to fuel you up before your early visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 9: Admire Machu Picchu

For many of us, visiting Peru is all about one thing: seeing the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. It’s the destination we’ve seen countless times on Instagram, and the thought, “I have to see this in person,” crosses every traveler’s mind. The best time to visit? As early as possible.

There are a few important rules to keep in mind when visiting Machu Picchu, such as the limit on daily visitors and how long you can stay, so be sure to book your tickets well in advance. While an early morning wake-up might not sound fun, trust me, it’s worth it. We arrived just in time to take beautiful photos before the crowds showed up!

We spent a few magical hours admiring the breathtaking scenery, watching the sun rise, and wandering through the ruins. Each corner of this sacred city, from the temples to the houses and caves, holds its own story, and learning about them made the experience even more special. This was truly a day to remember!

After exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll head back to Cusco and enjoy the evening at Rumi Wasi. Rest up, because tomorrow you’ll be waking up super early again for another exciting day!

Day 10: Your Last Day in Peru – Hike Rainbow Mountain

After spending the past few days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, you should be well-adjusted to the altitude. That’s why it’s best to save the Rainbow Mountain hike for the last day, as the altitude here is even higher, around 15,000 feet (4,500 meters).

We booked our tour with Flashpacker Connect, known for being the first to reach the Rainbow Mountain trail each day. And trust me, it’s an early start! We woke up at 1:45 AM for a 2:10 AM pick-up and drove 3 hours to the trailhead before the sun even rose. As we finished breakfast, the sun began to rise, and we started the hike with no one else around. We were led by two adorable Australian Shepherd dogs who kept us company until they raced ahead.

The hike itself is not particularly difficult in terms of terrain, but the altitude makes it challenging. We had to take frequent breaks to catch our breath, but the stunning views at the top made it all worth it. While some travelers on horseback beat us to the summit, it was still much quieter than if we had started later in the day. We took countless photos and sat for a long time, admiring the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain.

On our way back down, we saw hundreds of hikers on the trail, and the mountain was packed with visitors. That’s why it’s so important to go early with Flashpacker Connect—you’ll have unobstructed views and a more peaceful experience.

After your hike, spend the remainder of the day relaxing and exploring Cusco before heading home the next day. It’s the perfect way to end an incredible trip to Peru!

If You Have More Time in Peru

If you’re lucky enough to extend your trip beyond the 10-day itinerary, here are some fantastic suggestions for more adventures:

1. Lake Titicaca – Explore the mysterious lake with its famous floating islands and experience the unique culture of the local communities.
2. Arequipa – Peru’s second-largest city, surrounded by three volcanoes. Visit its historical sites, vibrant markets, and admire the stunning colonial architecture.
3. Spend More Time in the Rainforest – If you can, spend a few extra days in the Amazon Rainforest at your lodge, or explore another area to delve deeper into this incredible ecosystem.
4. Huacachina – Visit the desert oasis of Huacachina, go sandboarding, or take a dune buggy ride through the massive sand dunes. Be sure to visit a Pisco vineyard while you’re there! This is also a perfect day trip from Lima.
5. Ballestas Islands – Take a day trip from Lima to see the diverse wildlife on the Ballestas Islands, including sea lions, seals, and Humboldt penguins.
6. Hike the Incan Trail – If you have four extra days, consider hiking the iconic Incan Trail and immerse yourself in the history along the way.
7. Colca Canyon – One of the deepest canyons in the world, where you can witness majestic condors soaring above the dramatic landscape.
8. Nazca Lines – Take a flight over the mysterious pre-Colombian geoglyphs that depict animals, plants, and other shapes carved into the desert floor.

Best Time to Visit for a 10-Day Trip to Peru

Let’s talk about the best time to visit Peru. The weather in Peru is divided into two main seasons: dry and wet. The cooler, dry season usually occurs during the Peruvian winter (from May to September), while the warmer, wetter season lasts from October to April.

We visited in May and were fortunate with the weather! It only rained once for about an hour as we were leaving the Amazon. I highly recommend visiting the rainforest during the dry season, as the wet season might leave you stuck at your lodge with fewer opportunities to spot wildlife (though rain can happen at any time in the rainforest). Additionally, the winter months provide ideal weather for exploring the Sacred Valley.

The only drawback to traveling during the dry season is that it tends to be much more crowded. That’s why I suggest planning your 10-day trip in May or September, right before the crowds arrive or as they start to leave. And don’t forget to book early for the best deals!

Perfect 10-Day Peru Itinerary Tips

Before you embark on your 10-day trip to Peru, here are some top tips to help make your stay as smooth and enjoyable as possible:

1. Travel Insurance – We highly recommend getting travel insurance for international trips! We love using World Nomads, which offers clear, hassle-free quotes at affordable prices.
2. Budgeting for Peru – Be sure to check out our “10 Days in Peru Cost” article to get a better idea of how much to budget for your trip.
3. Packing Guide – Looking to pack light? We’ve got a complete carry-on packing guide for Peru! We managed to travel with carry-on luggage only while doing all the activities on our itinerary. It wasn’t easy, but our guide will help you pack the essentials, leaving room for amazing souvenirs!
4. Finding Cheap Flights – We love using Skyscanner to find the best deals on flights to Peru. You can even set up price alerts to grab the lowest price when it drops!
5. Booking Hotels – For finding great hotels, we recommend Booking.com and TripAdvisor. Both platforms offer competitive deals and reliable reviews to help you choose the best stay.
6. Day Tours – If you’re looking for day trips in Peru, check out Get Your Guide! They offer tours ranging from a few hours to multi-day adventures.
7. Car Rentals – For car rentals, Skyscanner is our favorite platform to find the best deals.
8. Peru Honeymoon – Planning a honeymoon in Peru? We’ve got a complete Peru honeymoon guide, with tips on the best June and April honeymoon destinations (hint: Peru makes the list!).

10 Days in Peru is Wonderful

And there you have it the perfect 10-day Peru itinerary. Peru has quickly become one of the best countries we’ve ever visited. From the breathtaking Amazon Rainforest to the wonders of the Sacred Valley, and the vibrant, modern city of Lima, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with Peru and visit time and time again.

Have you been to Peru? What’s your favorite place to visit? And what do you think of this 10-day Peru itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!